Point Magazine | Fall 2023

Nothing but NET

invest in the student you used to be.

You know Point University is a special place. Since our days as Atlanta Christian College, students in our classrooms — both in person and online — have experienced the personal investment and mentoring that shines at a small, Christian university. You experienced it yourself. Imagine your generosity allowing future generations of students to share that same life-changing experience. Consider a gift today!

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On the Cover:JTory Wooley ’12 in West Point Park Gym, home of the Skyhawks basketball and volleyball teams. Wooley’s team has had tremendous success on the court, but even more importantly, he’s changing his students’ lives and leading them toward stronger faith in Christ. Read more on page 14!

Nothing But Net

Followed Jesus

Calling all alumni!

COVER PHOTO BY RAGAN BARNES JOHNSON ’21

This summer, the Point University community suffered a tremendous loss in the death of our friend and colleague, Chancellor Emeritus Eddie Groover ’67. Eddie served this institution in so many ways – as dean of men, as academic dean, as president, as chancellor, and as faithful friend and supporter. We will miss him terribly. Shortly after Eddie died, I was reading Psalm 5: “Give ear to my words, O Lord; consider my groaning.” I believe that God answered Eddie’s prayers on his final day of life, as he had faithfully answered his prayers many times before. I didn’t hear my friend’s last prayers, but I knew him well enough to know the earnestness of his heart, his love for his family, and his longing to be present with Jesus and to see again his best friend and love of his life, Belinda. God hears our prayers, he considers our groaning, and by the abundance of his grace, he answers us.

I am confident that my humble and faithful friend Eddie did daily what he simply believed God was leading him to do. His humility kept him from ever realizing the cascading ripples of influence he had in God’s kingdom. I know that on that Monday morning, a little before 10:00 a.m., Eddie walked into a place God had prepared for him. And he was reunited with many he loved and thousands more he never knew he had influenced for good and for God.

If you’ll turn to page 10 of this issue, you’ll read several more tributes to Eddie from colleagues who knew and loved him. Even more tributes are posted on our website at point.edu/groover.

Elsewhere in this issue, you’ll learn about a coach’s impact on his students, read about a faculty member’s forthcoming book, and meet some of our incoming students. During Eddie’s memorial service in July, another good friend, Jim Donovan ’74, shared several stories about him. He said that his own granddaughter had texted him to say she was sad that he had lost his friend, and she was praying for him. Jimmy wisely responded that his friend was not lost; he knew exactly where he was. Our friend is with Jesus!

May we all live faithful lives of service so that none of our friends will ever be lost, because we did our jobs loving them well and introducing them to our Savior and King, Jesus.

In Christ,

Point Magazine

Volume 62, Number 1

Fall 2023

EDITOR/ DESIGNER

Sarah G. Huxford

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Amber Bowman

CONTRIBUTORS

Ragan Barnes Johnson ’21 Desean Bullock

Point Magazine exists to tell Point University’s stories. It is intended to serve as a vehicle for connecting the University’s alumni and friends. For the first 49 volumes of its existence, Point Magazine was known as The Gold & Blue. The magazine is published by the Communications Office, which retains the right to determine the editorial content and presentation of information contained herein. Articles or opinion pieces contributed by guest writers do not necessarily reflect the official views or policy of Point University and its board of trustees. Point Magazine welcomes reader responses to its content.

CONTACT US:

Point University

Attn: Point Magazine

507 West 10th Street

West Point, GA 31833

706-385-1000

editor@point.edu

© 2023 Point University

Dean C. Collins ’79 President

Point University’s mission is to educate students for Christ-centered service and leadership throughout the world. Point University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate and master’s degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 300334097, at http://www.sacscoc.org, or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Point University.

SNAPSHOT

The West Point campus is pretty quiet in the summer — except for Starting Point! On these days, new students and their families come to campus to register for classes and get other information they need to be ready for their first semester of college. To learn more about this fall’s incoming class of residential students, turn to page 18.

Giving the Past New Life

In February, Point was gifted a unique piece of art — a sculpture of a hawk carved entirely of wood from the Lanett, Alabama mill.

Chuck Moore, a resident of Valley, Alabama, began carving when he was a teenager working in the textile mill in the Fairfax area. He would practice by carving people into textile chalk, which he would then sell to his friends and family. As he progressed in his abilities, he expanded into carving wax, wood, and eventually, stone and metal.

“I’ve never had an art class or any training in my life,” said Moore.

In the last 20 years, Moore has created 50 metal structures, ranging in height from one foot to eight feet, using pieces and parts from the old mill buildings that no longer exist.

“These buildings are completely gone now,” said Moore. “They’re just history.”

The wood used for Point University’s hawk sculpture was salvaged from the Lanett mill. “I had a friend who worked there,” explained Moore. “He helped me buy two different pieces of wood while they were tearing the building down.”

The wood is original growth pine, which was put in the stairwell of the Lanett mill in 1890. “I only use hand tools, like mallets, to make these,” said Moore.

Moore has created 11 more pieces like this hawk sculpture, all with the materials from old local mills, and he is always looking for a place to display them locally. “I want them to stay here, to be a part of the community, even though the buildings are gone,” he said.

The hawk sculpture is on indefinite loan to Point University, and it is proudly displayed in the lobby of the Lanier Academic Center for all to see and enjoy.

To view more of Chuck Moore’s creations, please visit cmooresculpture.com

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The Point chapter of the Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society (TriBeta) inducted 11 new members last semester. These students have all shown a passionate interest in the biological sciences and are pursuing careers in the field. View more at point.edu/photos

ragan barnes johnson ’21

COOPER NAMED NEWEST TRUSTEE

Khalilah Cooper, executive director of design at Chickfil-A, has been named to Point’s board of trustees. “I’m thrilled to add Khalilah to our board of trustees,” said Dean Collins 79’, president of Point. “Her expertise and education will be an asset as we continue to focus on fulfilling our mission of providing an excellent, Christ-centered education to our students.”

Cooper, who resides in Fayetteville, Georgia, earned a bachelor’s degree in materials science and engineering from Cornell University. She then went on to earn an MBA from Harvard Business School. She worked for Johnson & Johnson and McKinsey & Company before joining the team at Chick-fil-A in 2013.

“Point University’s mission aligns with my personal, professional, and spiritual passions to live out my faith in the marketplace and invest in the next generation of kingdom builders,” said Cooper. “I look forward to offering my heart, head and hands to the University for God’s glory.”

Lyner Named All-American in Softball

Haley Lyner ’25, of Oxford, Alabama, was named a Second Team All-American for the NAIA at the close of this season. Lyner, who was also named Appalachian Athletic Conference Softball Player of the Year, is the first-ever All-American in Point softball history.

Lyner, an outfielder, entered the season with a mindset to contribute positively to the program. She started the season by earning AAC Softball Player of the Week the weeks of February 20 and March 27. Overall, Lyner posted a .410 batting average on the historic season, a .445 onbase percentage, a .665 slugging percentage, 71 hits, 54 RBIs, nine home runs, 11 stolen bases, 10 walks and 15 doubles.

When Lyner came to Point as a transfer from Southern Union State Community College, she felt the feeling of home. Lyner was unsure if she would continue to play softball at the collegiate level, but she regained her love for the sport. “I had a friend who told me I was too good not to play softball in college,” she said. Lyner’s love for the atmosphere where everyone supports each other made it an easy choice to become a Skyhawk after she finished her time in junior college.

STATES REPRESENTED BY POINT’S ONLINE STUDENTS. FIND OUT MORE AT ONLINE.POINT.EDU

AJ Taylor ’16 recently worked with the Georgia state legislature to pass S.B. 45, or AJ’s Law, which will provide education and training to teachers for students with epilepsy or seizure disorders. “The first moments of a seizure are so crucial,” said Taylor. “AJ’s Law will be life-changing for the next generation of students with epilepsy and seizure disorders.”

Lyner has made a name for herself in her Skyhawk career, as she has been recognized as AAC Second Team All-Conference (2022), AAC First Team All-Conference (2023), AAC Softball Player of the Year (2023), Three-time AAC Softball Player of the Week and now, a Second Team All-American.

News Feed

Omega Nu Lambda, a national honor society exclusive to online students, has named a group of students to Point University’s Delta chapter of the society. Honorees must earn a GPA of 3.2 or better.

Randall Howell, instructor in science, is the recipient of this year’s Vulcan Teaching Excellence Award. The award annually recognizes an outstanding faculty member who demonstrates strong academic skills in the classroom and provides leadership and support on campus.

Point Honors 124 Graduates at Spring Commencement

THIS SPRING’S commencement speaker was U.S. Army veteran and Point University alumnus Cliff Rash ’16, ’21, father of two of the day’s graduates. Speaking from Philippians 3:12-14, Rash focused on encouraging graduates to “press on” after earning their degrees. “Where you are now is only a place to propel you to where you will be,” said Rash.

Each year, the University recognizes an outstanding graduate from both the residential and online bachelor’s degree programs with the Hathcock Award, the highest honor given to a graduating Point student. Named for the University’s founder, the award is given based on academic achievement, character, and servant leadership. This spring’s Hathcock Award recipients were Roshannah Rash, an accounting major from Pooler, Georgia, and Sky Parrish, a child development major from Byron, Georgia. To view photos from the day, visit point.edu/photos.

ragan barnes johnson ’21

POINT WELCOMED ALUMNA Morgan Harper Nichols

’10 to West Point for a chapel service held at Spring Road Christian Church last spring. The worship band for the evening included fellow alumni Matt Summers ’14 and Ajani Brown ’15, pictured at right.

Nichols is an autistic artist, poet, musician and best-selling author of All Along You Were Blooming. She has collaborated with numerous brands, such as Google, Starbucks, Instagram, Hallmark, COACH, KIND Snacks, Skillshare and more. Her artistic focus is on storytelling and the power of individual stories in the larger community of humanity.

Nichols returned to her alma mater to share her story and inspire current Point University students. Her presentation centered on the theme, “There is more to the story,” in which Nichols expressed a passion for the parts of our stories we withhold from others.

In her work as an artist and social media influencer, Nichols allows followers to submit their stories to her via direct message, and she creates and posts art in response to these stories.

“Slowly I started to see that I was a part of something bigger than me, and I wanted to spend my life helping others discover the same thing. I wanted to focus on finding moments of connection,” said Nichols.

Nichols urged Point’s students to understand that their lives are part of a greater story, one that impacts everyone around them, even if they do not see it.

“All of art is part of something bigger, and so are we. Our stories have influence. Even when we’re not speaking, our stories impact each other,” said Nichols.

Nichols explained that even if the students do not know what they want to do with their lives, they can decide now what they want to do within their lives.

“No matter what you do within your life, there is an opportunity to encounter grace,” said Nichols.

To learn more about Nichols and her work, please visit morganharpernichols.com or follow her on Instagram: @morganharpernichols.

Artist and Author Morgan Harper Nichols ’10 Speaks in Chapel

A Good and FaithfulSERVANT

REMEMBERING DR. R. EDWIN GROOVER ’67

Dr. Eddie Groover ’67, chancellor emeritus, passed away on July 3 after an extended illness. All who knew him can attest to his kindness, intelligence and generosity. His knowledge of the Restoration Movement, including the founding of this University, was unparalleled. He filled many roles at Atlanta Christian College, serving as president from 1993-2006. He was supportive and encouraging as we transitioned to becoming Point University, serving for a time as chancellor and frequently attending special events on the West Point campus. He was a man of strong faith whose Christian commitment impacted generations of our students. On these pages, some of his closest friends and colleagues share their memories of him.

I met Eddie in 1970, when I was a knuckle-headed sophomore basketball player who happened to be taking some classes, and he was the newly minted M.Div. from Emmanuel School of Religion, hired by President Jim Redmon to teach us all things related to church history and the Restoration Movement (on which eventually he did his doctoral dissertation at Emory).

Two years later he became the dean of men, and Eddie and I began to become friends. My last year in college, I moved into the dorm, and we sealed the friendship. He became a groomsman in my wedding on December 21, 1973. It was the last day of the semester and final exams. We would be wed that night.

That morning I had one exam, and I sat next to a student who was a bit older than I, and already a nurse, who had come to ACC to become a medical missionary. Her name was Belinda. Before the exam, we were chatting, and she said she needed a ride to the airport to catch a flight

home in the morning. I said, “I think I know someone.” After the exam, I chased down Eddie and asked if he would take her. I think he blushed, gave me that Cheshire Cat grin and said he would be happy to do it.

Six months later, they were married, and next June, they would have celebrated 50 years together — they will celebrate without us!

A few nights before he died, my son and I visited Eddie. During the conversation, Eddie – speaking through the irritating oxygen mechanism and the nebulizer – said, “I want to live, but I am not afraid of dying . . . I am in the hands of the Lord.” Indeed, he is.

That is true for all of us who have placed our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, as well. We are in the hands of the Lord! There is no better place to be.

—Dr. Jim Donovan ’74

Pictured above are past presidents Eddie Groover, Jim Donovan, Paul Carrier and James Redmon.

Our roots go back far – even before either of us were born. My great grandmother, a missionary to Japan, nearly recruited Eddie’s mother on the ACC campus to move to Japan. Eddie was my boss, my hiking and camping buddy, my carpool partner and my friend. His old roll-top desk sits in my home office, a relic he didn’t have room for years ago, and he gave it to me. I think of him each time I sit down to work.

We traveled many miles together and had many adventures, both within the U.S. and abroad. We swapped parenting ideas over the years. I performed a rededication wedding for him and Belinda when they celebrated their 25th anniversary, and I walked with him as he watched his mother, then his lovely bride, suffer through the painful process of dementia. He called me early on a Sunday morning from the hospice when Belinda passed away. I met him, cleaned out her room for him, and went to the funeral home with him – the same one where his visitation was held.

I know the hole I feel in my heart is felt by everyone who knew him. It is a chasm that is impossible to close. On the way home from the funeral home, my wife asked me someone’s name. Unable to recall it, I absentmindedly picked up my phone and said, “I’ll call Eddie. He’ll know.” He loved Point, he loved people, and most of all, he loved his Lord. Not once in our 40 years did I ever hear him speak ill of anyone. That is a legacy of living one’s faith that few achieve.

—Dr. GreG moffatt ’88

As a new history professor at Atlanta Christian College, one of my first assignments was to attend Dr. Eddie Groover’s class on Restoration History. Restoration History was a course on the founding of the Christian Church and Churches of Christ. President Collins, it seemed, was concerned that the knowledge Dr. Groover shared in this course needed to somehow be recorded. Not to question my boss, I began a new semester sitting in the back of a Tuesday and Thursday 8:00 class.

Dr. Groover taught without notes, referenced unique, primary sources and discussed past pastors and meeting houses as if speaking of dear friends and places. I was enthralled. I took voluminous notes. I copied handouts. I began research of my own to see if I could add to his narrative. When I shared new information, thinking to impress him, not only was he aware of my “new” information, but he would add a witticism about a person or place I named.

I typed up notes weekly, I wrote test questions for him, I added some videos, and then I asked if I could retake the course the following semester to double-check my work. What resulted is one of my most prized possessions. Some years later, I went on to teach Restoration History, using Dr. Groover’s notes, but without his flair and depth of knowledge. A true intellect, a fellow historian, a friend I was blessed to know.

—Dr. Kim macenczaK (’80-’82)

I am grateful to be able to say that in my many years of knowing Eddie Groover, I was first his student, then his faculty colleague. He was the academic dean who kept me teaching at Point while I was on a mission of preaching in a local church, and finally, the president who, among other things, invited me to speak at fall convocation one year.

But those are all more formal and professional relationships –for which I have no complaints. More than that, however, is the fact that Eddie Groover and I were friends.

There is much that I admire about my friend Eddie. He found a way to love the academy and the church, a rare combination. Most people seem to love one or the other, but not both. But Eddie was quite comfortable in any role he ever took in the academy, and always seemed to love the church in ways that made my heart glad. He was as brilliant as any friend I’ve known, yet I still remember a moving sermon he preached in chapel years ago on Paul’s attempt at stand-up comedy in 1 Corinthians 12. I never read that great chapter without seeing Eddie behind the pulpit at Westside Chapel, speaking so passionately about the body of Christ, the church.

Few, if any, can ever say they served the Lord at Point University for as long and as faithfully as Eddie did. That he was my friend warms my heart as a blessing from God Himself.

—Wye HuxforD ’73

In early 1986, I learned of an opening for a New Testament professor at Atlanta Christian College. My contact was Eddie Groover, academic dean. Thus began a 37-year friendship that has blessed me beyond what words can express. I’ve had a number of friends in my 70 years, but few brought me more joy and wisdom than Eddie.

In the early years of my tenure at ACC, Eddie and Belinda reached out to share themselves with me, Kathy and our kids. There were happy outings to Callaway Gardens, to a seafood restaurant in Atlanta whose name escapes memory, to Symphony Hall to hear The Messiah, to Sisters Chapel at Spelman College to hear the combined Spelman-Morehouse Glee Clubs, and to Eddie’s Attic to hear Pierce Pettis. We especially bonded when he and I attended a number of professional conferences together.

From Eddie I learned so much: how to be a better writer, how to be a better preacher, how to think of others rather than oneself, how to be kind and compassionate, how to be a thoughtful and considerate friend, and how to hold firm convictions while remaining kind and charitable towards others. As I’m now older, I pray that the Lord will make me holy, preparing me for the life of heaven. Looking back, I know of few souls as holy as Eddie’s. And, at the same time, I have known few as humble as his. I will always thank God for a friend as holy and humble as Eddie Groover.

—Dr. Barry BlacKBurn

When our campus was in East Point, my office was just down the hall from Dr. Groover’s. We chatted often, and during one of our conversations, Dr. Groover and I discovered some similarities in our journeys. We both had a parent from Bowdon, Georgia, both grew up in the Ben Hill community, both graduated from D. M. Therrell High School, and both earned our doctoral degrees from Emory University. It was quite remarkable! Dr. Groover was 26 years older than me, and we noted how various circumstances were different from the time that he was in those spaces to when I came along.

Considering this, we put together a presentation that compared and contrasted our common paths and looked at how we were impacted by race relations along the way. I was honored to partner with him in sharing our story on four different occasions, and I truly enjoyed the time that we spent getting to know each other.

Dr. Groover was also instrumental in connecting me with generous donors who sponsored the children of

Eddie Groover and I were friends for more than 50 years. We were roommates at ACC and at Emmanuel School of Religion. We were groomsmen at one another’s weddings and lived in the same town. We worked together at Point University until our retirement.

Eddie had a major influence on my life. Of the many admirable traits of character he displayed, the one I admired the most and for which I will remember him most was his kindness. When I say “kindness,” I mean something more than socially polite or considerate of other people’s feelings. His kindness ran much deeper. He had a selfless and compassionate heart for people that always sought what was best for them. It inspired his ministry and motivated the generous giving of his time and money. His kindness was like the kindness of God.

Eddie showed me that kindness when I succeeded and when I failed, when I was being praised or when I was being criticized, when I was righteous and when I was unrighteous.

Thank you, Eddie, for showing me kindness. It has helped me to reach for the person God wants me to be.

—Dr. Steve HooKS ’69

faculty to attend Camp WinShape. Each year, I would get an email from him asking if my sons wanted to go back to camp, and the camp experience became one of the highlights of the year for each of my three boys for over 10 years! I’ll never forget Dr. Groover’s kindness in how he always thought of them for that opportunity.

My most recent interaction with Dr. Groover was in fall 2022, when he graciously agreed to help us out by teaching a course. He hadn’t been in the classroom for several years, but was eager to fill the need and to learn how to use Canvas. As the semester ended, he kept me up to date regarding his health concerns and surgery. In our last email exchange, we shared Christmas blessings with each other. I was saddened to hear of his passing, but I am comforted by the scripture that says “blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on . . . that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them.” (Revelation 14:13). I am grateful to have known Dr. Eddie Groover and to call him a friend in Christ.

—Dr. DeDra WoolfolK

To read more reflections on Dr. Groover’s legacy or share your own, please scan the QR code at left or visit point.edu/groover.

Nothing but NET

BY AMBER BOWMAN

Basketball is a game of passion. It’s not enough to be well-trained in the fundamentals of the sport. The best players — the legends — pour everything they are into their game. They play with strategy and endurance, wisdom and skill. They know the sport, and they know how to play it well.

The game of basketball and the race of the Christian life are not as dissimilar as they may seem. Even if you’re well-versed in the fundamentals of the faith, it takes true wisdom and passion to apply them to the daily discipline of following Christ. To walk with Christ is to live in tune with the Holy Spirit, to run with endurance, to not lose heart in the midst of suffering and trial.

Few people are as keenly aware of the parallels between basketball and the Christian life as Tory Wooley ’12, head women’s basketball coach. As a student here, Wooley played on the men’s basketball team for four years. He was an all-American athlete, helping lead the team to win the regional championship, and he was also honored with the

Hathcock Award, the highest honor given to a graduating student. Wooley served as one of the first African-American campus life ministers, and in 2011-12, he was a member of the student transition team, chosen to help aid the student body with transitioning Atlanta Christian College to Point University and moving the main campus from East Point to West Point.

The mission and vision of Point University are deeply embedded in Wooley’s personal life mission. “This place changed my life,” says Wooley. “I absolutely love this place.”

After graduating, Wooley was appointed assistant coach of the women’s basketball program, and it wasn’t long before he was named head coach.

“It’s just been a special joy to work here at the university where I was once a student,” he says. “I got into coaching to change lives and to make a difference in young people, and I love it.”

Wooley has certainly made a difference in the women’s basketball program. In the

Tory Wooley ’12, head women’s basketball coach, has a lot to be proud of — on and off the court

ragan barnes johnson ’21

2022-23 season, Point women’s basketball made recurring headlines and history. The Skyhawks had a winning 23-9 record, going undefeated in December for their second consecutive 20-win season of the program. They then won their first Appalachian Athletic Conference championship in University history and appeared in the NAIA National Tournament. To round out a remarkable season, Wooley was named AAC Coach of the Year, making him the first African-American coach to win the award in the AAC in either men’s or women’s basketball.

Reflecting on his historic season, Wooley shifts all the praise to those around him. “It was pretty humbling. A lot of hard work went into that. It’s a total reflection of my assistant coach, my graduate assistant and the players, who put in a lot of hard work,” says Wooley. “I’m just so thankful for the journey.”

Wooley’s career at Point has made him well-loved throughout the University. “I have been a fan of Tory Wooley since he was an all-American basketball player at ACC,” says Jim Donovan ’74, professor of education and former faculty athletics representative. “Tory is an ‘all star’ in every sense of the word. I have seen more coaches than I can remember, and

Tory is numbered among the most effective, both in personal influence and in technical expertise.”

Coaching is about more than basketball for Wooley. “I’m a transformational coach,” he says. “At Point, by being faith-based, we get to point students to the cross and to our four core values as a program, which are love God, love people, do your best, and choose joy.”

These values aren’t just theoretical to Wooley. He applies them practically with his team each season. “We want each player to grow spiritually, even though that looks different for all of them,” he explains. “We go out into the community to retirement homes and elementary schools to love others. We encourage them to work hard on the court and in the classroom. And finally, we want this to be a phenomenal experience for every one of our players, so we try to have fun.”

Halfway through the past season, Wooley and his coaches made the decision to set a different tone before each game. “We wanted to bring our team closer to one another, so before each game we started to have a time of prayer, he says. “We’d turn on quiet worship music and the coaches would leave so that the ladies could all pray

together. We won that night, and after that, they wanted to keep doing it. Looking back at that moment, I think it’s one of the reasons we have success on the court. It’s not that we’re perfect, it’s that we’re able to put Christ first and pray for each other.”

Wooley’s faith is his primary motivator as a coach. “I try to be as relational as possible with the players, and I try to meet them where they’re at,” he says. “I care about them, and I want them to know that. I really believe that everyone is a ten at something, so I want to stretch them into being the best version of themselves.”

Wooley’s program has proven itself successful beyond basketball, too. Wooley manages to keep the long-term vision in view as he prepares his players for life after college. “I want them to do the practical things — grow, learn and develop — but I also want them to always dream big and to continue growing in their faith,” he says.

Those life lessons are the memories that stand out most to Wooley’s former players. “It’s funny,” says Schelbi McKenzie ’18. “I know I went to school for basketball, but he was more than a coach. He was a father figure while I was away from home. It’s amazing how we connected

through basketball, but all my memories are from things off the court.”

Marta Gimenez ’23 echoed the same sentiment. As an international student, Gimenez was having a difficult time being away from home, and rather than dismissing her homesickness, Wooley made it a priority to check in on her. “I was missing home very badly, and he became like a dad to me,” she says. “He was always checking in to make sure I was good, and it just shocked me. It felt like home when I was missing home the most.”

Wooley makes sure to lead his players by example. He and his wife, Nicci (assistant professor of communication at Point), who have two sons, spend time investing spiritually in the team outside of basketball, too. “I think one of the main things I learned from him was definitely loving God and keeping that first outside of basketball,” says Catika Brown ’18. “The Wooleys would even invite me to church on Sundays, or they would take the whole team to church.”

Wooley knows that it will take time to see the impact of doing ministry among college students, but he doesn’t lose heart. “Those are the special moments that make this position so rewarding: when a former player comes back for a game, and they talk about all the things they remember and apply to their lives now. You’re planting seeds now, knowing that it’ll be years until you see the harvest, but it’s really nice when you do get to see them grow and apply those principles,” he says.”

Those real-life principles Wooley preaches mean more to his athletes than he would likely guess. “I think if I could tell him anything,” says McKenzie, tears welling in her eyes, “I would just thank him for being like my dad. He gave me great advice and wisdom on and off the court, and I really look up to him. He’s worth looking up to.”

Gimenez also grows emotional when recollecting the lessons learned from Wooley. “He always told us to never let anyone tell us we can’t do something,” she says. “Especially as women, he was always reminding us that we can do anything if we work hard. That’s something I’ll follow for

the rest of my life. I’m going to miss him a lot. He’s like family to me.”

There are many good coaches in the world — men and women who do their jobs and go home at the end of the day, saving their energy and hearts for other things. There are very few coaches who willingly give all of themselves to their teams — not just to win basketball games, but to shape lives, to set a Christ-like example as a mentor, a friend, a leader, a father. Wooley is undeniably the latter.

Jaunelle White, vice president of intercollegiate athletics, summarizes it simply: “Tory genuinely cares about his student-athletes’ and staff’s well-being, beyond the court and office. His recent accolades are a testament to his hard work, dedication and willingness to walk in his purpose.”

Colossians 3:23-24 says, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Jesus Christ.” Wooley’s coaching and stewardship of his influence embodies these verses beautifully.

“The thing I love about God is this: if you let him into any area of your life, he will come in and meet you right where you’re at,” says Wooley. “I know our games will never be on ESPN and millions of people won’t watch, but it matters to these athletes. It’s a big deal to them, and it matters to God — not just the big things, but the small things, too.”

Meet the Class of 2027

Point’s newest students come from all over the world and the far corners of the United States. This class includes students whose high school experience was greatly disrupted by the COVID pandemic. They are scholars, student-athletes, legacy students, first-generation students and more. Read on to meet seven Skyhawks who are beginning their Point journey!

aaliyah Lobendahn

Exercise Science Major | Volleyball

Orem, Utah

What strengths do you bring to the University? Since I was little, my parents have been rooting for me to do the best I can, whether it was from sports to school to learning how to do something new for the first time. Their encouragement has taught me to persevere during tough times, ask questions when I do not understand, and how to help others when they are stuck. As a student, I have learned that not every day is going to be easy; some days are going to be extremely difficult. When I attend Point, I want to help others and learn from them along the way, because my true strengths come from working with others to achieve a common goal.

Why did you choose Point?

When I first visited campus, it was near the end of the semester, and there were only a handful of students left before the school year was over. I was a little surprised to see how small it was; I come from a bigger hometown and was not sure what I would be shown, but what I got to see with the few students left was a supportive staff and a tight-knit group of students. I felt very welcomed, and it made me excited to soon be a part of that culture. What is one thing you’ve accomplished that you’re really proud of?

Becoming a college athlete is something I hold dear to my heart, and it fills me with immense joy and pride. It was a dream I nurtured, inspired by my family’s footsteps, but at times, I found myself doubting if I could

truly make it. Yet, through every challenging moment, I refused to give up. This achievement isn’t just about a sports scholarship; it represents a part of my soul poured into something I deeply love. It symbolizes resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief in myself even when the path seemed uncertain. Every time I step onto the court now, I carry with me the memories of the journey that led me here.

What are you most looking forward to during your time at Point?

I look forward to meeting new people, making long-lasting friendships, and having a new family away from home.

Callum Thompson

Elementary Education Major | Soccer

West Sussex, England

What do you plan to major in, and why?

I am planning to major in elementary education, as teaching is a career path that I would like to pursue going forward. I found my passion for working with children by being a sports/soccer coach over the last two years, where I realized that this was something that I really enjoyed.

Did you have an opportunity to visit the campus? If not, how did you feel comfortable choosing Point?

I felt comfortable choosing Point having not visited the campus thanks to the campus tours on YouTube and the information on the Point website. The school is also in a good location, not too far from a big city, Atlanta, and other areas such as West Point Lake, so lots to do in and around the area, too.

What does being successful mean to you?

To me, being successful is about making progress each day, no matter how big or small, and no matter the field. Success, in my opinion, is about pushing yourself to be the best you can and always putting in effort.

What are you most looking forward to during your time at Point?

I am most looking forward to being able to play soccer on a very regular basis, improving myself athletically, and also being able to simultaneously get a degree in elementary education. I am also very much looking forward to the diversity of the soccer team and learning about new cultures and a different way of living in what is a foreign country for me.

Caesar

Marketing Major | Volleyball

Columbus, Georgia

What strengths do you bring to the University? The strengths that I bring to Point University are that I am very compassionate, and I am very caring. I feel like it’s a good strength to have when at a university or anywhere.

Why did you choose Point?

I chose Point because as soon as I stepped foot on campus, I felt comfortable, and everyone was just so welcoming and helpful. It’s very close to home, and the class size is just what I need to help me learn and focus better.

What is a world problem you would like to change? A big world problem I would like to change would have to be violence. Violence exists everywhere, and if I could change it, I would.

What is one thing you’ve accomplished that you’re really proud of?

Something that I have accomplished that I am really proud of is not giving up. I was going through something I thought would never get better. I put all my faith in God and hoped that he would help me get through the battle I was fighting.

What does being successful mean to you?

Successful to me means accomplishing a goal that you set for yourself. I also think it means to do something that makes others feel good.

Jasmyn

SAige Roche

Business Major | Football Woodbine, Georgia

What strengths do you bring to the University?

I plan to bring a great leadership role to the team as a new guy and lead by example.

Why did you choose Point?

I chose Point University because of the family feeling it gave me. I loved the small, home feeling I discovered while visiting the campus.

Who do you consider a role model in your life?

My dad is the biggest role model to me. He taught me the ropes of life and how to provide for myself.

What is one thing you’ve accomplished that you’re really proud of?

I have come to face many challenges in my life, and one thing that I’m proud of myself for is never giving up. Even when the times got rough, and I didn’t think I was going to be able to pull through, I kept my head up and never looked down. God has proven to me that there is a reason to be here and continue chasing my dreams.

Savannah Hancock

Elementary Education Major | Marching Band Manchester, Georgia

Why did you choose Point?

I first heard about Point University from my cousin, Faith Pearson Generis ’20, the volleyball coach. I decided that it wouldn’t hurt to come and tour the campus. When I came I met a lot of new, friendly people. I really enjoyed the small-town environment and the fact that it was close to home. Another major plus for me was that I am able to continue my love of twirling and become a majorette with the Marching Skyhawks this fall. I believe this is exactly where God is calling me to be! I am a very faith-oriented person, and it is comforting to know that I am in a place with others that share my same beliefs.

What have you read recently that has impacted or changed how you view the world?

Recently the most inspiring thing I have read is the quote “The Expert in anything was once a Beginner.”

What is a world problem you would like to change?

So many things happen in this world because children do not get the love and attention they need and deserve. I hope that one day I can be that person for someone.

Leah Prather

Business Major | Flag Football Fortson, Georgia

Why did you choose Point?

I chose Point because I wanted to go to school in a place where I was able to serve the Lord and learn how to further his kingdom. Point was a perfect fit for me.

What have you read recently that has impacted or changed how you view the world?

I’ve read that the Gospel has not reached much of the world. I want to do what I can to change that and spread the Gospel all throughout the world. I want to grow God’s kingdom and lead others to Christ.

Who do you consider a role model in your life?

My parents have given me a great example on how to be a good Christian and leader. They have sacrificed for me and taught me just about everything I know. I couldn’t be more grateful for them and what they’ve done for me.

What is one thing you’ve accomplished that you’re really proud of?

I am proud of playing flag football here at Point [ed.note: Leah was the first recruit!]. I am super grateful to have the opportunity to play this sport that many places don’t have.

Djuan Toomer

Accounting Major | Lacrosse Dundalk, Maryland

What strengths do you bring to the University?

I bring my athleticism to Point, as I hope to lead our lacrosse program to much success this season.

Why did you choose Point?

I chose Point because of the academic and sport opportunities, and that at Point, you feel cared about, like you matter here.

Did you have an opportunity to visit the campus?

If so, what was your impression?

I’m just seeing the campus in person today! I’m already in love with the University, and I hope to get to experience everything Point has to offer.

What is a world problem you would like to change?

I would solve poverty. How, exactly, I’m unsure, but I believe everyone should have a right to basic needs like food, water and shelter.

What is one thing you’ve accomplished that you’re really proud of?

I’m really proud of completing high school and making it into a university such as Point.

Be on the lookout for more new student profiles on social media this month!

Follow the women who followed Jesus

What all of us can learn from the courage and conviction of the women in the Gospels

BY HOLLY RITCHIE CAREY ’01, PH.D.

Humans are storytellers. We resonate with people’s experiences when we hear their stories. We introduce ourselves and give our testimony by telling our story. To understand an event that takes place, we try to piece together the story of how one thing led to another. I would argue that we learn best when the things we are learning are woven into the form of story.

I don’t think it’s by accident that God would choose to communicate the most important truths about who he is and what he is doing in the world through the Story of Scripture. It starts in Genesis 1 and continues to the end of Revelation. And the fulcrum – the moment that changes the trajectory of the human story from the brokenness and fallout of sin toward the harmony and healing of grace – is the story of Jesus. Four gospels, but one Gospel. Four witnesses telling their version of Jesus’s life, death, and resurrection with one goal: to share the good news of salvation to all people.

One of the distinctive features of storytelling is the invitation given to the audience. We are invited to join in the world the storyteller has created. In the process of that immersion, the audience is compelled to learn by example. Which characters should we emulate? Which actions are admirable? What lessons should we learn from what we have seen and heard? What should we do? What should we not do?

Given the unique ability for stories to shape us, it’s no wonder that in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, we are given an example of what it means to follow God in the person of Jesus. But Jesus isn’t the only one who functions as an exemplar in these stories. The gospel writers also give us examples of what it means to follow God in the people who followed Jesus during his ministry – his disciples.

If you’re like me, the default image that comes to mind when you hear the word “disciples” is the apostles – the twelve men who were called by Jesus and who are found in several formal lists of names in the gospels. Historically, the apostles become the outward-facing leaders of the early church, at least in the first years before most of them are martyred for their faith. But in the gospels, the apostles aren’t the only disciples. There are many people who follow Jesus faithfully. Jesus wasn’t surrounded by a mini, 12-person entourage. He had a whole ministerial operation!

Among these faithful followers were a remarkable number of women. Some of these women were committed to Jesus for the long haul. They traveled around with him from region to region as he taught and healed. They were there from the beginning of his ministry to the end of his life. They witnessed his resurrection and ascension. A group of these female disciples bankrolled his ministry while being in the trenches, aiding him in his good work. Other women popped into his life for a moment or two, but the ripple effects of their stories were profound. Often, these women’s stories are told because they represented the kinds of actions that Jesus expected of his followers. Most women in the gospels are presented as role models for the audience.

So, when we think of disciples and discipleship, we should try to expand our vision of who that entails to include the very people the gospel writers identify as faithful followers of Jesus. Because we learn by example from the stories we encounter, we should learn something from these women that can help us on our own journey of discipleship.

To help get us started, I’ve observed some character traits that female disciples have in common in the gospels. These are traits that we would all do well to emulate.

Resiliency and Perseverance

Life was not easy in the first century, and especially not for a woman. Barring exceptional circumstances, women were powerless in that time. They were unable to own property, subject to the rule of the paterfamilias (father of the family), rarely allowed to make decisions for themselves (those were made by their father or their husband), and denied formal education. As a result, women were often used as pawns in the games of men who sought power and social stability. Being a woman meant that you were already fighting an uphill battle, made even more difficult by the reality of high mortality rates in childbearing for mother and baby, the existence of social stigma surrounding women’s health, and the impact of pervasive stereotypes that presented women as persons who lacked virtue and were incapable of reason. With the deck stacked

against them, women had to be resilient to make an impact in their communities. Jesus deliberately chooses examples of women in his parables to demonstrate the type of resiliency all his followers should display.

In the parable of the persistent widow, the protagonist is relentless in pursuit of justice for herself, fighting both the one who seeks to take advantage of her vulnerability and the corrupt judge who presides over her case (Luke 18:1-8). In another parable, the woman who has lost one of her ten coins demonstrates the sense of urgency Jesus’s disciples should have when it comes to the Kingdom of God (Luke 15:8-10). The gospel writers also tell several stories of the tenacity of women who faced difficult circumstances and braced themselves against outright rejection. Women like the Syrophoenician who chases after Jesus and insists on his help for her daughter (Mark 7:24-30) and the hemorrhaging woman who navigates the crowd despite the danger of being exposed (Mark 5:24-34) risk rejection, shame and disappointment. Yet they seek his help anyway. And at the end of his life, it is his female disciples who stick with him – both at the cross and at his tomb to care for his body. Because they are there (while the apostles have fled and hidden), they are also blessed to be the first witnesses to his resurrection and the first to see his resurrected and glorified body. It is Mary Magdalene, for instance, who has the honor of receiving the mandate to go and tell the others that he has risen from the dead (John 20:11-18)!

Faith

It is quite a common theme for women who encounter Jesus to display a level of faith that far surpasses that of the apostles (there is often deliberate juxtaposition of their lack of faith with the faith of these women). Several times, Jesus calls attention to their faith as models for his followers. Often, Jesus lauds the faith of these women because of the difficulties they must navigate to seek him. It is no coincidence, then, that the two women mentioned above – the Syrophoenician woman and the hemorrhaging woman – are proclaimed to have the kind of faith that Jesus will later claim can move mountains (Mark 11:22-25). Of all the disciples, it is a woman – Martha – who gives the most robust confession of faith (John 11:20-27). And in the early days of the church, other female disciples show great faith. Lydia hears the gospel, is moved as the Lord opens her heart, and demonstrates her faithfulness

“For these disciples, faith is not just a verbal declaration, but an outpouring of tangible practices in the world.”

by showing hospitality to God’s missionaries (Acts 16:11-15, 40). Rhoda – a servant girl in the house of Mary, the mother of John Mark – is the only disciple in the house who believes that Peter has been miraculously broken out of prison by God’s angel (Acts 12:6-19).

Listening and Learning

Too often, Jesus encounters people who believe they’ve got a handle on what God is doing – people who are seriously misinterpreting God’s priorities and who find themselves in opposition to him. The development of the theme of Jesus’s conflict with the religious authorities in the gospels is well known, but less obvious are the times when even the twelve apostles oppose or dismiss his claims (Mark 5:31; 8:14-21; 14:26-31). By contrast, no female disciple is presented in this way. Instead, the women who follow Jesus are committed to him, and in their commitment, they deliberately seek to listen and learn from him, even when what he says is challenging or unexpected. The sisters Mary and Martha show him hospitality, serve him, and sit at his feet – the posture of a disciple who is learning from the teacher (Luke 10:39). In John’s gospel, the Samaritan woman at the well willingly engages in extended conversation with Jesus (John 4:726). That conversation starts with the woman’s incredulity (“Why is a Jewish man asking a Samaritan woman for water?!?”) and ends with her enthusiastic witness to his identity as the Messiah, which leads to the conversion of many in her city. John deliberately contrasts this with two different responses to Jesus: Nicodemus, who starts off wanting to learn from Jesus, but only at night, in secret, and with no immediate outcome from that encounter (John 3:1-21); and the apostles, who leave for a Taco Bell run and return perplexed at Jesus’s actions in conversing with the woman, while being overly concerned that he eat his lunch (John 4:27-38)!

Selflessness over Self-Preservation

According to Jesus, a key feature of discipleship is the willingness to be selfless, rather than being consumed with our own self-preservation. We can see this most clearly in his claim that following him means “taking up your cross” (Mark 8:34) and in his corrections to those who think that they will somehow benefit from their relationship with him by receiving earthly power and privilege (Mark 10:35-45). Instead, Jesus calls his followers to – shockingly – follow him. The path that he

walks is headed toward sacrificial death for the sake of others. Peppered throughout the gospel narratives are examples of women who seem to grasp this requirement better than some of their male peers. Jesus chooses a poor widow’s sacrificial offering of the very last of her money as an object lesson for the apostles (Mark 12:41-44). It is a group of women who use their status and financial means to fund his ministry, risking ostracization from their family and wealthy peers (Luke 8:1-3). And, most importantly, the ones who risk being captured as followers of Jesus upon his arrest are overwhelmingly the female disciples, who stand near the cross, follow his body to its burial, and come back to the tomb to care for it on the third day (Matthew 27:55-28:10). The women’s “nearness” to Jesus is deliberately contrasted with Peter’s response: to deny Jesus unequivocally when confronted and to hide behind locked doors in fear and despair (Matthew 26:69-75; John 20:19).

Women of Action

What do all these women (and so many more!) have in common? They are women of action. The women who encounter Jesus are changed by their encounter with him, and they respond appropriately – with acts of service and faith and selflessness and courage and conviction. Even when doubted, even when dismissed by their own fellow believers, they remain committed to Jesus’s commands and remain convinced in the truth of his identity. For these disciples, faith is not just a verbal declaration, but an outpouring of tangible practices in the world. In other words, what they believe leads them to live it out, just as Jesus did. Female discipleship in the gospels becomes, then, a model for us as believers. May we have the same courage and conviction that these women did – to follow Jesus and to demonstrate his love in our own lives. May we tell their stories alongside the stories of the apostles. Because this Story can change the world.

Dr. Carey is professor of biblical studies and chair of the Department of Biblical Studies at Point. To preorder her book, Women Who Do: Female Disciples in the Gospels, scan the QR code below.

The year is 1972. Senior Mark Pierce and his girlfriend, Cathy Spainhour, stroll across Atlanta Christian College’s campus in East Point, Georgia, on their way from the cafeteria in Head Hall to Dodson Dorm. The fall season has arrived, and the trees are covered in vibrant red, orange and yellow leaves. Suddenly, professor and photographer Roy McKinney, a friend of both Mark and Cathy, appears and poses them for a beautiful autumnal scene.

“I do not remember the exact circumstances of that photo, except that Roy McKinney snagged us one day as we were walking,” says Mark ’73. “He was the school photographer, and he had an eye for a photo op.”

Those two young college students had no way of knowing what their future would hold, but the early years of their relationship are now immortalized in one wonderful photo. Mark and Cathy ’73 were married on August 18, 1973, after Mark graduated from ACC with a bachelor’s degree in ministry.

Cathy had a successful career as a public school teacher for 30 years, while Mark was ordained as a preaching minister and later went on to be an educator at three different colleges. The couple is now retired, and they have two sons and three grandchildren.

“We both made friendships and other relationships at Atlanta Christian College that have remained an essential part of our lives,” says Mark, reminiscing on his time at ACC. “We still meet with our old roommates and other friends for social events after 50 years.”

Mark and Cathy speak highly of their ACC professors and friends for their lifelong encouragement and help, both during their college years and in the years since. “I’ll never forget McKinney and all that he did for us. He taught us to think critically, and he made us laugh. He preached my ordination sermon in 1973,” says Mark.

Mark went on to describe his love for Dr. Eddie Groover, former president of Atlanta Christian College and chancellor

emeritus. “Eddie helped me in more ways than I can describe. I remember when my father died in March of my senior year, and Eddie especially helped me recover that semester to graduate on time,” he explains. “Eddie is now encouraging the saints in heaven, and I am sure McKinney is still taking photographs of golden streets.”

Mark and Cathy’s experiences at Atlanta Christian College are evidently full of fondness and love. “What we learned there helped us to move to other academic preparation. It also taught us about life itself and prepared us to serve in churches and in the community. We are both grateful for our experiences there,” Mark says. “It helped form us as adults and focused us on the Good Lord and upon good life.”

Have a photo from your college years you want to share with us? Email the photo and your story to editor@point.edu.