Dr. Timothy George to Usher in 2024-25 at the Membership Kickoff Luncheon
The Club and Vulcan, move over. The most picturesque view in all of Birmingham may lie on a lovely winding drive along a mountainside as you enter the gates and continue to the clubhouse of Vestavia Country Club's beautiful golf course. Who knew that their course was designed by the firm of the famous Frederick Law Olmsted, whom many would associate with the design and original maintenance of the grounds of the magnificent Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina?
The Vestavia Country Club will be just the spot to dine and fellowship with Legacy League friends and prospective members at the Membership Kickoff Luncheon on Thursday, Sept. 19. While the luncheon begins at 11:30, come early to experience the involvement fair! Time-honored festivities will include a heartfelt student testimonial and recognition of 2023-24 volunteers, board members, elected officers
and event chairs. The 2024 Lolla Wright Award will also be presented. Our time together will include a bit of ministry and wisdom provided in a homily by the founding dean of Samford’s Beeson Divinity School. Dr. Timothy George was instrumental in shaping the character and mission of the divinity school, later became a research professor of history and doctrine, and in 2020 was named distinguished professor by the Samford University Board of Trustees.
by Sadie Goodman
Virginia Vinson, Ginny Scott and Inga Clum decorate Vestavia Country Club for last year's luncheon.
Dr. George is also a life advisory trustee of Wheaton College. He has written more than 20 books, was the editor of the 28-volume Reformation Commentary on Scripture, and contributes to scholarly journals. He is an ordained
SAVE THE DATES
Sept. 19 Membership Kickoff Luncheon
Sept. 22 Samford Hymn Sing
Nov. 1-2 Samford Homecoming
Nov. 14 Membership Meeting featuring Jonathan Bass
Dec. 12 14th Annual Christmas Home Tour presented by ARC Realty
Feb. 13 Scholarship Luncheon featuring Carolyn Weber
Mar. 13 Membership Meeting featuring a musical program by Hunter Goff ’83
Apr. 3 Membership Meeting featuring Janey Pitts ’93 & Elizabeth Pitts
Apr. 24 Scholarship Celebration featuring Jon Michael Ogletree ’07 MAcc ’08
Baptist minister and has served churches in Georgia, Massachusetts, Kentucky and Alabama. He and his wife, Denise, have two adult children. The elegant venue, pleasant catchups with friends and intriguing thoughts from a beloved and distinguished professor are sure to be inspiring as we consider our real mission: the students. These luncheons remain focused on providing all attendees an opportunity and information on how to, “Be Inspired, Be Involved, Make an Impact.” Give a thought and a prayer to how you might help the Legacy League in 2024-25 while considering the many ways to serve when perusing the involvement fair. Outreach is encouraged — invite a friend to join us! Please make reservations for this event online at samford.edu/ legacyleague or return your completed reply card by September 12. Please note that reservations will be accepted in the order received; limited capacity available.
Dr. Timothy George will share an encouraging homily with members and guests at the Membership Kickoff Luncheon.
Serving Others — A Common Goal of 2024-25 Program Guests
by Cynthia Walker Watts-Barrineau
Legacy League programs never disappoint and always provide interesting and inspirational opportunities. Our 2024-25 membership meetings will feature guests who are called to serve. The November and April meetings will take place at the Samford President’s Home while the March meeting will be in Brock Recital Hall on campus. Fellowship will start at 10:30 a.m., with the program beginning at 11:15 a.m.
THURSDAY, NOV. 14 - JONATHAN BASS
Professor Dr. S. Jonathan Bass will share some of Samford’s history from his book From Every Stormy Wind that Blows: The Idea of Howard College and the Origins of Samford University. The book, commissioned by President Emeritus Andrew Westmoreland, took seven years to write. Dr. Bass said he learned that “the founders imagined a Christian college anchored in faith, intellect, virtue and benevolence—with a clear educational philosophy/ goal of creating useful and enlightened Christian citizens.” Dr. Bass, who came to Samford in 1997, holds degrees from The University of Alabama and The University of Tennessee. His book Blessed are the Peacemakers: Martin Luther King, Jr., Eight White Religious Leaders and the “Letter from Birmingham Jail” was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. Bass believes “God’s vocational calling in my life is to teach and serve students. That always comes first.”
THURSDAY, MARCH 13 - HUNTER GOFF
Hunter Goff ’83 will present a musical program at the March meeting. While at Samford, Hunter’s interest was church music. In graduate school at Florida State University, his focus changed to music education. After teaching for 33 years in Jefferson County Schools, Hunter retired from full-time teaching. His most recent position was at Gardendale Elementary School where he was a choir and music teacher for eight years. Teaching during the pandemic was “tough,” Hunter said, but it led him to teach all styles of music from Gregorian chant to Broadway, blues and jazz. He currently serves as organist for Briarwood Presbyterian Church and teaches private music lessons. Hunter says, “The real satisfaction in teaching comes when you embrace the idea that you are serving others. Finding joy in service is the key to enjoying teaching. If the focus is on yourself, you will not enjoy it.”
THURSDAY, APRIL 3 - JANEY AND ELIZABETH PITTS
Talented mother and daughter Janey and Elizabeth Pitts are the featured guests for our April meeting. Janey ‘93 is an author and speaker recognized for encouraging women to become who God created them to be in their families, relationships and lives. Janey has a master’s degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and has spoken in countries all over the world. She is the author of Deeply Defined: Understanding Who You Are in Christ. Janey’s daughter, Elizabeth, will graduate from Samford in December and attend Beeson Divinity School starting in January. Elizabeth serves on the Student Recruitment Team and hosts the national award-winning podcast “Bible Said What.” She has worked for Centrifuge and MissionFuge student camps and served in ministry in Kentucky and London. She particularly enjoys leading Bible studies.
14th Annual Christmas Home Tour to Feature Multiple Renos and Rebuilds
by Sharon Smith
Did you know that HGTV attracts an average of 11 million viewers each month? Described as “the ultimate destination for home improvement enthusiasts,” the channel has offered decorating tips, inspiration and ideas for 30 years. Move over, HGTV. On Thursday, Dec. 12, there’s an even better destination for inspiration and ideas – and one that changes lives, too. What may that be? The answer, of course, is Legacy League’s annual Christmas Home Tour!
Now in its 14th year, this beloved yuletide event is a favorite among members and the broader community. The tour has featured 55 homes and attracted nearly 7,000 guests, including visitors from multiple states. “We are thankful that the Christmas Home Tour, now a Birmingham holiday tradition, provides fi nancial support to deserving young students while
being a blessing for guests, students and volunteers,” said Chair Jan Service. “The tour’s impact has been enormous — over $425,000 raised for scholarships so far.”
Like always, our slate of homes includes a variety of ages, architectural styles and design concepts. But while each of the homes’ décor is unique, the five being featured this year share a common factor — all have either undergone extensive renovations or been rebuilt from the ground up. Save the date and get ready to enjoy:
• the personal dwelling of a nationally recognized interior designer
• a panoramic golf course view in Vestavia
• pop-up shoppes, festive treats and gorgeous antiques in the president’s home
• a reimagined 1950s era Hollywood home
• a Crestline residence built by an award-winning architect
This not-to-miss event is an “all hands on deck” endeavor – our largest volunteer opportunity of the year! Over 100 volunteers are needed to serve as home hosts, in addition to the helpers required for food and publicity. So, block off the day and, if possible, plan to serve during one shift and tour during the other. Look for the sign-up this fall, and recruit a friend to serve with you!
Online tickets will be available this fall at samford.edu/legacyleague. Advance purchase is required.
10 a.m. – 2 p.m. & 4 – 8 p.m.
featuring the homes of
Amy & Matt Kelly
318 La Prado Circle, Homewood
Mary Catherine & Scott Laney
504 Dexter Avenue, Mountain Brook
Nancy & Ron Rowell
2421 Chestnut Road, Vestavia Hills
Marianne & Patrick Strong
503 Eastwood Place, Vestavia Hills
Julie & Beck Taylor
Samford President’s Home
1994 Shades Crest Road, Vestavia Hills*
*Enjoy holiday treats and a selection of pop-up shoppes at the Samford President’s Home.
Get to Know Our Elected Officers
by Dana Daniel Blake
Karen Carlisle president
Our wonderful president is Samford University to the core! Karen and her husband, parents and all three children are alumni, so she is on fire for scholarships. She loves to take walks, read the Bible and volunteer locally. Ask her about the LL committees she has served on!
Jan Cobb president-elect
Jan is also Samford University to the core as she, her husband and her daughter are all alumni, plus her granddaughter is a sophomore. Her family formerly co-owned Crestline Pharmacy, and now she is retired and loves to do crafts and work out. Ask her about her six grandkids!
Kathryn Woodruff VP for communication
Kathryn, a Samford alumna, has served on many committees and as Legacy League president. She loves to read, do puzzles, take mission trips and go to the beach. Her passion is her daylilies that bloom in May and June. Ask her about playing pickleball!
Belinda Stroud VP for membership
Belinda is connected to Samford as an alumna and parent of a Samford graduate. She loves helping Samford students, reading, scrapbooking, travel and going to flea markets. Ask her about her work with the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions!
Ginny Scott VP for programs
Ginny is a Samford alumna, as are two of her three children, and so was her late husband. She loves to play games with friends, go to church and be with her nine grandkids. She has served on several committees. Ask her about her new Standard Poodle named Poppy!
Katharine Faucett VP for student support
Katharine connected to Legacy League through a friend and is the parent of a 2023 graduate. She loves serving our students, having coffee, reading the Bible through, doing Pilates and spending long weekends with friends from Atlanta. Ask her about her favorite farmers market!
Meg Donovan junior board president
Meg is an alumna who served as a Samford Ambassador before joining LL. She has filled multiple roles on the junior board, is currently in graduate school and works for the Samford Alumni Association. Ask her about her recent travel adventures!
Scholarship Celebration Hits All the Right Notes
by Kathryn Woodruff
It
would be easy to say the 2024 Scholarship Celebration was a success, like every other year, but if that’s all we say, we minimize these highlights:
• a beautifully decorated venue
• a touching, eye-opening video
• the largest ever sponsor gift total (over $84,000!)
• an exciting announcement of scholarship funds raised
• recognition of a special scholarship donor
• a concert featuring multiple music genres, scintillating harmonies, ear-catching dissonance, resonant bass and pure, clear tenor voices.
The evening of Thursday, April 18, opened with a reception presented by Aramark and attended by over 70 sponsors. Aramark also presented the delicious dinner that included a beautiful salad followed by a main course of shrimp, roasted chicken, blue corn grits and Creole
PRESENTING SPONSORS
Reception & Dinner presented by
DIAMOND SPONSOR
Kimeran & Bill Stevens
GOLD SPONSOR
Lauretta & Carlton Baker
Bhate Geosciences
Brasfield & Gorrie
Sonja & Bennie Bumpers
Kathy & Michael Clay
Julie & John Collier
Craftsman Printing
Linda & Tommie Dunlap
Concert presented by
SILVER SPONSORS
Friends of the Legacy League
BRONZE SPONSORS
Marynell & Bill Ford
Gina & Brian George
Paula & Kerry Gossett
Penny & Phil Kimrey
Jane & Wayne Lewis
Malcolm K. Miller Jr.
National Christian Foundation Alabama
Janis & Vic Nichol
Daina & Randy Pittman
Monica & Mazen Sahawneh
Sharon & Hartwell Smith
Standard Roofing of Montgomery Inc.
Julie & Beck Taylor
Lucille Thompson
WEPA Printing
The eight-member male ensemble Cantus gives a mesmerizing concert at the 15th annual Scholarship Celebration.
succotash. And let’s not forget the fabulous lemon and strawberry dessert trifle!
Executive Director Julie Taylor shared inspiring words that encouraged continual support of life-changing gifts. She then introduced a powerful video narrated by Jada, a current student, that celebrates the exponential impact of the Legacy League scholarship program. Members of the Scholarship Celebration Committee helped with an announcement that funds raised for the year totaled nearly $610,000! Afterwards, Managing Director Sharon Smith recognized Carolyn Bryant for establishing the Lizzie Campbell Brown Scholarship. Carolyn and her husband traveled from Wichita, Kansas, for the special occasion.
The 200+ attendees moved into the Covenant Presbyterian sanctuary to enjoy a concert by Cantus, presented by Vulcan Materials. The eight-member, all male group began with a rousing rendition of “There’s a Meeting Here Tonight” and proceeded through several lullabies, a few Motown tunes, and spirituals such as “Steal Away” and “This Little Light of Mine.” They closed with a beautiful arrangement of “Simple Gifts” and a much-appreciated encore.
The evening was a fitting celebration, enjoyed by all. We are so grateful for our sponsors and our hard-working committee, chaired by Jan Cobb, as well as the 33 volunteers who helped with invitations, publicity and decorations. Why do we make the effort to put on an event such as this? Because we want to help as many students as possible to benefit from a Samford education!
Julie Taylor and Sharon Smith recognize Carolyn Bryant ’71 of Wichita, Kansas, for establishing a scholarship in memory of her grandmother.
Karen & Todd Carlisle
Junior Board President Shares Hopes and Plans for the Upcoming Year
by Maureen Hallman
Outside of the Legacy League (LL), Meg Donovan ’19 can be found spending quality time with her husband, Robert ’19, family and friends. She enjoys traveling, exploring Birmingham, cooking and creating environments that bring people together. Meg has been a LL member since 2019, but her involvement began as a student. As a Samford Ambassador, she had the opportunity to learn about the LL and help with a few events. Our mission resonated with her, and she became involved to serve others and give back to the university that gave her so much. Enjoy this Q & A with our new junior board (LLJB) president!
Share with us the exciting things that are happening with the LLJB this year.
I am so excited for this year! The board is comprised of 14 individuals who each possess great talent, unique experience and evident hearts for the work of the LL. This year we have seven returning members and seven new members. I am confident that through our meetings and collaboration we will learn together, integrate new ideas and find greater ways to advance the work and mission of the LL.
How can LL members of all ages support the work of the LLJB?
It’s important to note that the LLJB would not be possible without the entire organization. We greatly appreciate and acknowledge the impact of the traditional members. No matter the age or stage of life, members can engage with the work of the LLJB by attending events, supporting fundraisers and encouraging involvement among people in their personal networks.
What events should members anticipate in the fall?
While we are still planning, there are already a few things to look forward to! This fall we will host our second annual Trivia Night on Sept. 24. We will also hold our annual Holiday Fundraiser in December, so plan to complete some
Christmas shopping! Also look out for details about our restaurant nights and spring fundraiser.
If you could encourage a friend to turn off Netflix and come to a LLJB event, what would you tell them?
I would ask if they know about the LL or have ever participated in a LL activity. If not, I would share about our mission and work and how they have impacted my life in positive ways. LL involvement is not only a chance to be part of life-changing work for students in need, but it is also an opportunity to be part of a bigger ministry for the Lord’s kingdom. LL events also provide opportunities to build new friendships and cultivate community with people you may not otherwise have met.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
This is a special community. I am a firm believer that the more you invest in this organization, the more you benefit both students and yourself. This year I want to help the LLJB better connect the mission of the LL with the work that we do. I hope to foster an environment where members feel supported, connected and enthusiastic about the LL and the work of the LLJB.
2024-25 Junior Board
Front: Lillian Wesley, Meg Donovan; 2nd row: Lane Henderson, Lilla Bea McMullan, Sadie Goodman, Sarah Chase Rabiee; 3rd row: Anna Claire Pope, Sarah Grace Givhan, Hollie Garner, Caroline Carlisle; 4th row: Emily Cranton, Noah Letcher, Mary Beth Bush; not pictured: Nellie Whatley
LLJB members gather at a restaurant fundraiser to support a life-changing cause.
Last year’s Spring Fundraiser Committee members have fun while baking strawberry brownies for the big event.
by Jo Klepper
Faith-Focused Author Carolyn Weber Tapped as 2025 Scholarship Luncheon Speaker
Our annual Scholarship Luncheon will be held on Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025, at Vestavia Country Club with featured speaker Dr. Carolyn Weber. Yes, this is the same Carolyn Weber who wrote Surprised by Oxford! Please reserve this date on your calendars and make plans to invite friends!
An award-winning author, professor and international speaker, Dr. Carolyn Weber holds her B.A. Hon. from Huron College at Western University, Canada and her M.Phil. and D.Phil. from Oxford University, England. Her radio, television and podcast interviews address topics of faith and literature as well as the relevance of faith to our everyday lives. She has served on faculty at Oxford University, as well as multiple other universities in Canada and the U.S. Dr. Weber was the first female dean of St. Peter’s College, Oxford. She is currently on faculty at New College Franklin in Franklin, Tennessee, as a literature professor.
PREMIUM SPONSOR
In addition to teaching, Dr. Weber has also written multiple books including two memoirs. Her first, Surprised by Oxford, tells the story of her going to
Oxford as a young, agnostic graduate student and finding God everywhere she turned through associations with fellow students and faculty. This book, described by author and founder of dancingpenbooks.com Rick Nau as “not just a memoir, it’s a guide for living, overflowing with wonderful, wisdom-filled advice,” was made into a feature film which aired in theaters in the fall of 2023.
So, do we pause and give thanks for our own individual faith stories? Sometimes, as happened with Dr. Weber, there will be an event or a person who causes us to pause and review our faith roots and our growth in Christ. Our Scholarship Luncheon will likely be such an event, and Carolyn Weber will give us much to ponder in regards to our own faith stories.
Generosity Fuels Scholarship Expansion
Legacy League student stories. Hearing them never gets old. They are powerful, encouraging, redemptive and true. They remind us that God is on the move and show us how He is using hundreds of individuals and businesses to change lives. The last decade has brought amazing support for our mission to provide transformational scholarships for students with significant financial need and challenging circumstances.
There is much to celebrate!
• We now have a total of 45 different scholarship funds, 30 of which were created by individuals.
• Over 200 students have benefited from LL scholarships so far.
• Five students graduated in April; all are working or in graduate school.
• Our total scholarship endowment is approximately $7 million, up from just under $2 million 10 years ago.
With the growth in the endowment, we are able to do more!
• In 2023-24 we awarded over $250,000 in scholarships. The vast majority supported our cohort students, but we were also able to assist several other Samford students in crisis situations.
• Our cohort now includes 24 students (up from 12 in 2014).
• Each returning student receives an annual increase in scholarship funding.
• This past summer – for the first time ever – we provided scholarship funding for summer school.
Our 2023-24 Legacy League Giving Societies (listed on pages 12-13) include hundreds of individuals and businesses who contributed to our mission last year. Each and every gift matters, and when combined, the impact is both incredible and exponential. Thank you
Interested in learning more about creating a scholarship through a current or estate gift? Contact Sharon Smith at sharon.smith@samford.edu or 205-726-2247.
by Sharon Smith
to everyone who supported our work last year!
“This
scholarship will help me change the trajectory of my family … . Without (it) I would not be able to receive a college education.” -current scholarship recipient
Dr. Carolyn Weber
The class of 2024 included five LL scholarship recipients who are eagerly making their way in the world while entering graduate schools and/or their first full-time jobs.
VOLUNTEERS in Action
Nancy Golden, Marilyn Hallman, Cindy Anderson, Julie Smith and Tania Kennamer enjoy visiting while addressing invitations at the Samford President’s Home.
Becky Neuberger, Linda Cahill and Evelyn Kennamer greet members and guests at the Scholarship Luncheon.
The enthusiastic Scholarship Celebration Committee meets at Covenant Presbyterian Church to finalize details and walk through the venue before the event.
The junior board’s Spring Fundraiser Committee enjoys celebrating a great event with Jamie Tarence and Finlay Coupland ’22 of Family Savvy.
Ginny Scott, Claire Gwaltney, Cynthia Brast-Eldredge, Katharine Faucett, Cathy Cook, Kathryn Woodruff, Patricia Hawk and Diane Eggert eagerly await the students' arrival at a Fellowship Supper.
Katharine Faucett, Lindsey Reed Curl and Jan Service review the agenda for the final board meeting of the 2023-24 academic year.
Donna Jowers, Cindy Anderson, Morgan Elizabeth Stroud, Karen Carlise, Inga Clum and Carol Rutledge prepare centerpieces for the Scholarship Luncheon.
Legacy League volunteers and Scholarship Luncheon Committee members energetically decorate the Vestavia Country Club.
Junior member Jessica George and her family support students in challenging circumstances while at Legacy League Night at Slice Pizza.
Before the March membership meeting, Claire Gwaltney greets Kathy Clay with a quick hello and a hug.
Janis Nichol and Daniel Cason lead members and guests in worship during our March membership meeting.
Board members Marilyn Henry, Kathy Clay, Jane George, Cindy Anderson, Jan Cobb and Kathryn Woodruff reflect on and celebrate a wonderful year of service together.
Anna Claire Pope, Mary Snyder, Caroline Carlisle and Morgan Elizabeth Stroud prepare desserts before guests arrive for the LLJB Spring Fundraiser.
Scholarship Celebration Committee members Belinda Stroud and Tricia Naro prepare decorations at Covenant Presbyterian Church for the 15th annual event.
Julie Gunter, Kasey Fiscus, Sadie Goodman, Marilyn Palmer and Janice Fleming prepare invitations for the 15th annual Scholarship Celebration.
Mary Byrd, Ginny Scott and Cindy Hardy set up for the sponsor reception at the 15th annual Scholarship Celebration.
As a part of the hospitality team at the March membership meeting, Beth Gowing welcomes members and guests.
Nancy Golden, Tania Kennamer and Jan Cobb decorate the sanctuary for the concert at the Scholarship Celebration.
Where Are They Now?
Cass Waddell ’18: Legacy League Opened Doors to Professional and Personal Growth
by Frances King Abrams
CassWaddell wishes he had a time machine to see how his life would have been different, had he not attended Samford. “I think I would have fewer friends, a less ingrained desire to strive for integrity and be less equipped for the world.” He stretched his leadership and public speaking muscles while majoring in mathematics and engineering physics. “Samford pushed me to my limits to get me out of my comfort zone to grow as a person, thinker, student and Christian.”
Cass currently develops reporting solutions with a matter management software company in Raleigh, North Carolina. He and his wife, Alex, a Samford alumna, are also growing their family, with their fi rst child due this fall and the process underway to adopt a child internationally.
Like other scholarship recipients, the Sharpsburg, Georgia, native did not
experience an easy road to Samford. Cass’ two brothers, who both have Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, required much of his family’s focus and fi nances. “I remember sitting down with my parents working out the fi nances for schools … .” His parents revealed the amount needed for the colleges Cass was considering. Legacy League granted the exact amount needed.
“The impact of that gift allowed me to pursue and experience all that Samford has to offer. … This gift and my family life have given me something even greater than fi nancial assistance: the humble understanding of what generosity and encouragement can do for others and the understanding that nothing in life is guaranteed.”
Legacy League members encouraged Cass through student suppers, notes and birthday cards. “Every event that I attended,
Volunteer Spotlight
Cheryl Landreth: An Excellent Ambassador for the Legacy League
by Laura Promer
Cheryl grew up in Nashville, Tennessee, and attended Samford to major in business. She met her husband, Jim, while they were students at Samford, and they became members of Dawson Memorial Baptist Church. When Dawson member Alta Faye Fenton, president of the Legacy League at the time, invited Cheryl to join, she accepted the invitation and is still grateful for her offer.
Q: How have you been impacted by volunteering with the Legacy League?
A: It's always a joy to serve with other like-minded people to help deserving students attend Samford. When you hear the testimonies of the students,
you are inspired to do more, give more and invite more people to be involved. Having been a member long enough to see scholarship recipients graduate and give back, I've seen the power the Legacy League, with God’s help, has to change the course of someone’s life.
I walked away with encouragement and the feeling that people believed in me and had my back when college struggles arose.”
Q: What highlights can you share from your recent areas of involvement with the Legacy League?
A: Most recently, I served on the Scholarship Celebration Committee and had the privilege of working at the registration table. It was so much fun to greet alumni and friends I had not seen in a long time. An unexpected blessing was sharing campus memories with the two Samford Ambassadors who were helping.
Q: What past experiences, skills and talents have benefited you as you volunteer with the Legacy League?
A: Having lived and worked in Birmingham at Intermark Group advertising agency for more than 30 years, I have a good network of contacts that I feel is helpful in expanding the membership of the Legacy League. With the excellent speakers at our luncheons, it is easy to host a table and invite new people interested in learning about our organization.
Cass and Alex Waddell
by Jeanna Westmoreland Executive Director 2006-2021
She pulled up to the hotel’s entrance and greeted me with a folder. Elegantly attired with perfectly coiffed hair, she was the very definition of a grande dame of the city that would soon become my home. She drove me around Birmingham, making well-arranged stops, then ending at her beautiful home. “Jeanna,” she asked, “has anyone shared with you that as Samford’s first lady, you will serve as executive director of the Samford University Auxiliary?”
In the conversation that followed, I discerned that Elouise Williams would be an integral part of my life. I caught the vision for the Auxiliary and its scholarship program, then in its early stages. While she offered to resign as program coordinator so I could put together my own team, I asked her to stay on so I could learn from her. And
by Marla Corts Executive Director 1983-2006
It was my good fortune to have known Elouise Williams for almost 40 years and to have worked closely with her for 20. Our mutual commitment was the Samford Auxiliary, now Legacy League, where she served first as president and then as coordinator. Elouise was the quintessential southern lady — elegant, perfectly coiffed and attired, gracious and well spoken. Those lovely qualities were just the “icing on the cake” covering an arsenal of leadership qualities which made her the driving force she was. Truly, I have never known anyone to equal her talents for innovative thinking, motivating, inspiring and fully expecting the desired outcome.
She often proposed seemingly impossible
Remembering Elouise Williams
Elouise served as president of the Samford Auxiliary (now Legacy League) from 1986-1990, then as coordinator until 2008. Following her retirement and until her passing last August, she continued to faithfully support the organization. Elouise received the Lolla Wurtele Wright Award in 2014.
learn I did! Elouise provided me with countless documents and photos to help me obtain the knowledge needed for my role. She made sure I met people, joined organizations and attended events, becoming a guide to my new home.
When Elouise retired, I feared I’d lose her wisdom and knowledge. Instead, she became my greatest cheerleader, always available to answer questions or provide insight. When we were considering changing the organization’s name to Legacy League, I invited Elouise to the president’s home. After outlining our plan, I asked her opinion, then her blessing. She championed the name change and the new programs and events that followed. One of my favorite memories was when we hosted a 5K and fun run fundraiser. I was shocked when Elouise registered and showed up wearing a tracksuit and walking shoes!
In the years that followed, Elouise took
ideas for growing the auxiliary and raising scholarship funds. If someone expressed doubts about accomplishing her goals, she persisted in her inimitable way — formal but warm, firm but kind. Because she was willing to outpace all of us, everything we attempted under her guidance flourished. She was tireless and undeterred in her efforts to make it all happen, often sending us emails well after midnight. The results of such tenacity included a tasting party, fashion show, hymn books for Reid Chapel, a cookbook, note cards, a calendar, tablescapes, a membership directory and membership dues to include Life Memberships.
My most endearing memory of Elouise occurred in March of 2023 at the annual Authors Series program. Knowing of her failing health, I had not extended her a personal invitation as in years past. I was
every opportunity to encourage me and others in the Legacy League. In all of life, she was exacting in her standards; gracious and sincere in her praise; joyful in her service; constant and devoted in her participation; intelligent and wise in her advice; and faithful in her commitment to Christ. And the world is better for it!
astonished to see her when she sought me out at the event’s conclusion. There she was, age 95, out at night, just five months before her death to hear football legend Tim Tebow. Her presence that night typified everything about Elouise — devoted to Samford and her Lord, willing to make every effort, no matter the cost, to support, encourage and promote what she held dear. She will always be to me an inspiration and example of what she valued — “being a part of something bigger than ourselves.”
Legacy League Annual Giving Societies
The names of Legacy League’s four giving societies are drawn from elements of the organization’s crest and represent its core purposes.
Legacy defines the purpose of the organization—to plant the financial seeds that will provide scholarships for Samford students today and for years to come.
The oak recalls the tradition of the Sherman Oak, named in honor of the college’s first president, and it represents the unbroken chain of teaching and learning that began in 1841.
The banner proclaims Deuteronomy 6:10–12, which reminds us that we are building on a strong foundation built by those before us.
The lamp represents the lighting of the lamp of knowledge through education.
LEGACY $5,000+
OAK
$1,000–$4,999
BANNER $500–$999
LAMP
$250–$499
Recognition in 2023-24 annual giving societies includes all tax-deductible contributions to Legacy League funds made July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024.
Legacy Society
ARC Realty
Baptist Foundation of Alabama
Amy and Taylor Beattie
Dianne and Marc Booth
Becky and John Bowdre
Karon and Birch Bowdre
Carolyn and Steve Bryant
Karen and Todd Carlisle
Julie and John Collier
Gary Cooney
Bonny and Larry Dearing
Carolyn Drennen
Galen Johnson**
Lilly
Cindy and Ron Mims
Samford Dining by Aramark
Kimeran and Bill Stevens
Beth and Rick Stukes
Julie and Beck Taylor
Vulcan Materials Company Foundation
Oak Society
Anonymous Donor*
Alabama Power Foundation
Faye and Jere Allen
Robbin and Anthony Allen
Allsouth Appliance
Altec
Lauretta and Carlton Baker
Baptist Health System
Cherry Billings
Naomi and Allen Blackwell
Betsy Box
Brookdale University Park
Carol Butler
Byrom Building
Jo Wayne and Chalmers Chism
Kathy and Michael Clay
Community Bank
Leslie and Chris Corts
Kathy and Brad Creed
Dentons Sirote PC
Linda and Tommie Dunlap
Chizuru and Jeff Elliott
Environmental Biological Services
Firefly Electrical
Judy and Jeffrey Flannery
Tammy and Judd Fleming
Jane George
Rhega and Fritz Gordon
Greater Emmanuel Temple Holiness
Church, Inc.
Anna Kathryn and Mike Hardin
Christie and Tommy Harmon
Glenda Harris
Andi and Steve Hill
Mary Louise Hodges**
Issis and Sons Furniture
John 3:16
Peggie Johnson
Johnson Controls, Inc.
Penny and Phil Kimrey
Ann and Ron Layne
Levy's Fine Jewelry, Inc.
Marathon Electrical Contractors
Catharine and Wriston Marshburn
Britton and Brian McPherson
Betty* and Malcolm Miller
Mountain Brook Plaza 280
Becky and Peter Neuberger
Newk's Vestavia
Oak Leaf Services
Jane and Mike Puckett
RJ Mechanical, Inc.
Robins & Morton
Ronnie Watkins Ford
Monica and Mazen Sahawneh
Jan and Bill Service
Jenny Smith
Sharon and Hartwell Smith
Jennifer Whitaker
Banner Society
Anonymous Donor*
Myralyn and Stephen Allgood
Brenda and Doral Atkins
Lee and Bill Baggett
Bhate Geosciences Corporation
Molly Bee and Tom Bloetscher
Brandino Brass Company
Brasfield & Gorrie
Nancy Brock
Sonja and Bennie Bumpers
Gina and Sam Burnette
Annie Capps
Kimberly and Shane Christopher
Chris Cole
Elaine and Darrell Cook
Grace Cook
Marla Corts
Craftsman Printing
Judy and Jack Duncan
Julie and Mark Edwards
Wendy and Mark Feild
Marynell and Bill Ford
Sherri and Jim Foyt
Gina and Brian George
Paula and Kerry Gossett
Charolette and Tommy Hamby
Gail and Mike Hathorne
Marilyn and Jim Henry
Nichole and Craig Huseby
Frances and Gavin Jones
Beth and Tom Lamberth
Jane and Wayne Lewis
Dina and Alan Long
Luckie's Pinestraw
Dea and Kenneth Mathews
Mayer Lighting Showroom
Mook Mills Cheese Straws
Dawn McCormack
Zhaleh and Jim McCullers
Ellen McLaughlin
Momentaker Photography
Kelly and Arnold Mooney
National Christian Foundation
Wayne Pate
Peritus Wealth Management
RD Designs
Viveka and Parker Rosenberger
Ruby Ansley Interiors, Inc.
Charlotte Russ
Ginny Scott
Ashley and Alex Seligson
Shelby County Arts Council
Shutter Bug Window Coverings
Pat Spain Blanton and Jim Blanton
Standard Roofing of Montgomery, Inc.
Taco Mama
Pete Taylor
The Hackney Foundation
Lucille Thompson
Warren Averett
Lauren and Jeff Weathers
Andrea and Paul Wells
WEPA Printing
Lamp Society
Anonymous Donor*
Mary Katherine and David Adams
Catherine and Lee Allen
Patsy and Joe Arnold
Sue Belcher
Benevity Community Impact Fund
Karen and John Bergquist
Birmingham Bulls Hockey Club LLC
Troy Braswell
Becky and Thomas Bryant
Eugenia and Lee Burch
Jan and Mike Cobb
Christy and Chip Colee
Cathy Cook
Julie and John Cook
Wendy and Clay Cook
Sandra and Todd Cotton
Charlotte and John Cramer
Jeanelle and Stanley Day
Diamonds Direct
Meg and Robert Donovan
Amy and Sam Duffey
Fran and Clarence Duncan
Diane Eggert
Katharine and Brett Faucett
Stacia Gaines
Linda and John Godfrey
Barbara Griffith
Marilyn and Reginal Hallman
Hanna's Garden Shop
Amy and David Harris
Betsy and Jimmy Holloway
Jane and Richard Houchins
Lottie Jacks
Jenelle and Dewey Jones
Tracey Kerbler
Charles Knight
Tammy and Jeffrey Komenda
Cheryl and Jim Landreth
Ian Layne
Amy and Brian Lee
Kay and Lewis McLean
Jane and Don Menendez
Evie and Rosevelt Morris
Sarah Moseley
Newk's Vestavia
Janis and Vic Nichol
Sherry Parker
Kathryn and Chris Pursell
Connie and Claude Rhea
Sue and Michael Richards
Robert F. Henry Tile Co., Inc.
Rousso Adams Facial Plastic Surgery
Kelley Rowan
Royal Cup Coffee
Beverly and Dennis Sansom
Laura and Andy Sink
Slice Pizza
Glenn Slye
Lori and Don Sullivan
The Fresh Market
The White House Interiors
Nancy and Randy Tribble
Urban Cookhouse
Virginia Vinson
Wells Fargo Advisors
Nancy and Phillip Whirley
Angela and Christopher Wilson
Lisa Worley
Other Donors
Anonymous Donor*
Frances and Howard Abrams
Cheryl Acton
Kathy and Don Acton
Caroline and Jeremy Adams
Alabama Symphony Orchestra
Alan and Co. Fine Jewelers
Carey and James Albritton
April Allen
Christy and Dustin Allen
Joyce and James Altsman
Cindy and Jim Anderson
Mary Ellen and David Andrews
Sandra and Doug Arendall
Claire and Leon Armstrong
Sherry Armstrong
Rachel and Knox Ashford
Judi and Paul Aucoin
Heather Averett
B. Bayer & Co. Monogramming and Gifts
Rachel Bailes
Tara and Scott Bailey
Baker Lamps and Linens
Angie and James Barber
Gail and Dan Batchelor
Najwa Bateh
Andrea Baxter
Virginia Becker
Courtney Bell
Cindy and Tim Bembry
Michelle and Bill Bensinger
Mary Berryman
Katherine and Billy Bishop
Bistro V
Bloom & Petal
Emily and Bob Blount
Teresa and Charles Boackle
Karen Boatright
Margaret and Hamp Boles
Renee and Mike Booker
Allison Boone
Kathryn and Chad Boyd
Sandra Boyken
Cynthia Brast-Eldredge and Ernie Eldredge
Brian's Flooring & Design
Laura and David Bright
Amy Broeseker
Ginger Brown
Lisa and John Bryan
Lucie Bynum
Mary and Chris Byrd
Linda Cahill
Forrest Ann and David Cahoon
Diane and Burt Caldwell
Martha Callaway
Debbie and Don Campbell
Georganne Canterbury
Christina and Lee Carrier
Dorothy Carroll
Sheila Chaffin
Jackie Champion
Robin and Jeffrey Chandley
Christine's on Canterbury
Marcelle and Roy Ciampa
Connie and Douglas Clark
Linda and John Clark
Eva and Gary Click
Inga and Jason Clum
Jane Cobia
Caroline Coleman
Sue Collins
Jan and Russ Connell
Cookie Fix
Judith and Jim Cooley
Linda and Erick Cooper
Costco
Myra Courtney
Marlene and Jonathan Cox
Catherine Craig
Florence and James Crocker
Phyllis and Larry Crocker
Mary Ella and Max Croft
Julie and Drew Cundiff
Martha Darden
Laura Brooke Dart
Luke Dart
Davenport's Pizza Palace
Kay and Rudolph Davidson
Julie and Art Davis
Lisa Davis
Enid and Bill Dean
Peggy Dekle
Glenda and Joe Dickerson
Lynn Dill
Joyce Dixon
Patti Donaldson
Elizabeth and Jimmy Doyle
Melinda and Ralph Dressler
Danna and Bert Duncan
Bethany Dunlap
Jessellan Dunn
Teresa and Greg Durrett
Peggy Dye
Rhonda Elkins
Betsy and Robert Elsner
Maureen Erb
Jane Evans
Melanie and Chase Ezell
Malinda and Andy Felts
Alta Faye and Gary Fenton
Fi Plan Partners
Kasey and Jack Fiscus
Helen and Jim Fisk
Rosemary Fisk and Howard Walthall
Janice and LaWayne Fleming
Fleming's Steakhouse
Karen Flynn
Shannon and Sean Flynt
Jill Foshee
Mary Anne and Mike Freeman
Kathy and Don Furr
Sharon Fussell
Stella Gamble
Cynthia Gammill
Hollie and Zack Garner
Sheri and James Garrett
Allyson and David George
Nancy and Jonathan Golden
Sadie and John Goodman
Susan and Evan Gordon
Beth and Bob Gowing
Dotty Greene
Robin and Drew Greer
Denise and Shawn Gregory
Carol Griffith
Vickie and Rick Griffith
Blanche and Gary Groban
Maurene Guffin
Lisa and Greg Gurley
Claire Gwaltney
Brenda and Morris Hackney
Lynn and Bill Hairston
Maureen and Sam Hallman
Susie and Scooter Hammers
Allison and Bryan Hancock
Helen Hancock
Laura Hannah
Cindy Hardy
Kay and Chris Harlow
Patricia Hawk
Rogers Helton
Mary Henderson
Lori and Louie Henry
Barbara and Doug Hill
Diane and Hunter Hinkle
Jackie and Bob Hissam
Emily and Garrett Holaday
Angie and Allen Holder
Sandra and Elam Holley
Holt AV/Video
Suzanne and Joe Hopkins
Eliza and Blake Hudson
Paula and George Hudson
Jean Hughes
Humphrey's Dog Resort
Liz and Tom Hutchins
Rebecca and Gary Hutto
Intermark Group Inc
Katie Jackman
Carol and Hal Jacks
Angeline and Keith Jackson
Dee Dee and Ted Jackson
Donna and Jimmy Jackson
JCMCA Inc.
Lynda Jentsch and Bart Grooms
Jade and Juyuan Ji
Jim N Nicks Community BBQ
Gay Lynn Johnson
Mary Johnson
Sandra Johnson
Tami and Kent Johnson
Cynthia and Jerry Jones
Janet and Dennis Jones
Donna and James Jowers
Evelyn Kennamer
Tania and Wayne Kennamer
Cindy and Jay Kennington
T.K. Kieran
Patty Kirkley
Jo and Rick Klepper
Chris Lacek
Rita and Fred Lakeman
Lea Barrera-Segura and Gene Lankford
Cheryl and Ray Lea
Marian Leftwich
Ayers Leggett
Emily and Cooper Leibach
Nancy Lewis and Walt Stricklin
Ingram Link
Michelle and Jason Little
Marianne and Nicholas Livingston
Judy and David Long
Kathy Loomis
Sarah Beth and Jay Magette
Margarita Grill
Carolyn Markham
Pam Matthews
Monica McCoy
Courtney and Scott McCrory
Julie McDougal
Rhonda and Ted McGill
Lilla Bea and Reed McMullan
Melinda Storey Pottery
Leanne and Brandon Messer
Claudia and Brett Metcalf
Sue and Robert Miles
Gayle and Eddie Miller
Martha and Michael Mims
Stacy and James Mintz
Kelly and Michael Monk
Monograms Plus
Frances Moon
Christa and Michael Moore
Terry and Michael Morgan
Cynthia Moss
Dana and Mike Mungenast
Julie and Steve Myers
Tricia and Philip Naro
Patricia and James Netherton
Cindy and Martin Newton
Khiet Ngu
Lynne Nicholson
Christina Norman
Nothing Bundt Cakes
O'Carr's Restaurant
Frances Owens
Marilyn Palmer
Millie Palmer
Pampered Pet Resort
Hailee and Nelson Park
Lynn Parrish
Nett and Harold Parrish
Pastry Art Bake Shoppe
Jennie Pate
Katy Pate
Mary Lou Patterson
Barbara Patton
Diane and Mike Payne
Joan and Wray Pearce
Renee Pelfrey
Victoria Pereira
Daisy Perrigin
Kathy and Paul Petro
Martha Picardy
Shellyn and Philip Poole
Peggy and Greg Powell
Grace Poynter
Barbara and Milburn Price
Laura and Scott Promer
Clay Pruitt
Jennifer and Travis Rainey
Leslie Ramsay
Sheri and Josh Ransome
Lindsey Reed Curl and Kevin Curl
Karen and Alan Register
Ann and William Rice
Sarah and Matt Rich
Marlene Rikard
Janice and Ray Roberson
Robbie and Ronald Roberts
Carolyne Rowell
Brandi and Doug Russell
Carol Rutledge
Salon U
Ann Sanders
Seasons 52
Shalla Wista Studio
Karen Shallenberg
Cooper Shull
Emily Small
Amy Cate Smith
Chantelle and Kevin Smith
Debbie Smith
JoAnn and Larry Smith
Julie and Steven Smith
Sally and Doug Smith
Sheila and Rowan Smith
Patsy and Jimmy Smithey
Elisabeth and Brooks Souders
Laura and Jason Sparks
Jennifer and Ken Speigner
Kathy and Dale Spruiell
Norman Stallings
Lynn and Stan Stepleton
Julie and Mark Stewart
Allison and Taylor Strickland
Belinda and Stephen Stroud
Debbie and Jim Sullivan
Anne Summers
Barbra and Scott Summers
Emily Surcey
Harriett and Foster Tate
Connie and Lee Taylor
Trent Taylor
Darcy and James Terry
Vangie Thames**
The Blue Willow
The Cajun Cleaver
Joyce and Jerry Thompson
Pam and Raymond Thompson
Jennifer and Leonard Tillman
Allison and Patrick Toomey
Town & Country Clothes
Addison Toy
Leah and Chip Treadwell
Rebecca and Michael VanHook
Kayla and TJ Vigneulle
Village Tavern
Janice and Greg Vincent
Marilyn and Jabo Waggoner
Brenda Walker
Debbie and Clark Watson
Cynthia Watts-Barrineau and Al Barrineau
Anna Webb
Deborah and John Westerfield
Jeanna and Andy Westmoreland
Kim and Michael Whatley
Nellie and Trey Whatley
Gay and Rick White
Laurin and Bryan White
June Whitlow**
Jane Whitney
Martha Whitson
Wild Things Flowers & Curiosities
Paisley Williams
Shea and Mark Williams
Kathy and Harold Williamson
LaVonne Williamson
Anita and Doug Wilson
Mary and Drew Wilson
Mary Wimberley
Pam and Gary Wood
Kathryn and Byron Woodruff
Naomi Worthington
Gary Wyatt
Anna Katherine Yarborough
Susan and Mike Yarbro
Mary Margaret and John Yeilding
*represents multiple donors
**deceased
Tribute Gifts for Legacy League Funds
The Samford University Legacy League gratefully acknowledges these gifts received July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024.
HONORARIUMS
Ann Keeney Layne Scholarship in honor of Mr. Ron and Mrs. Ann Layne
Ian Layne
Laurin and Bryan White
Big Oak Ranch Scholarship in honor of Mrs. Sharon Smith
Betsy Box
Cowley MK Scholarship in honor of Rev. William and Mrs. Brenda Carr
Charlotte and John Cramer
Nancy and Phillip Whirley
in honor of Mr. John and Mrs. Charlotte Cramer
Nancy and Phillip Whirley
MEMBER UPDATE
February 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024
Challenge Upgrade
Sharon Fussell
New Challenge
Janet Jones
Dea Mathews
Wayne Pate
Life Upgrade
Tammy Komenda
New Annual
Carolyn Barkley
Emily Cranton
Keshia Flowers
Carol Griffith
Ava Hallum
Polly Hatfield
Lane Henderson
Shirley Humphrey
T.K. Kieran
Claudia Metcalf
Olivia Pope
Julie Smith
Lillian Wesley
in honor of Dr. John and Mrs. Anne Whirley
Charlotte and John Cramer
Nancy and Phillip Whirley
in honor of Mr. Phil and Mrs. Nancy Whirley
Charlotte and John Cramer
Elouise Wilkins Williams Scholarship in honor of Ms. Anna E. Williams
Amy Broeseker
Jenny Smith
Glenn and Frances Slye Scholarship in honor of Anne Slye Anderson and Kyle Evan Anderson
Brenda and Doral Atkins
in honor of Rev. Glenn E. Slye
Brenda and Doral Atkins
Julie Taylor Endowed Scholarship in honor of Dr. Beck and Mrs. Julie Taylor
Robbin and Anthony Allen
Sharon and Hartwell Smith
Legacy League Scholarship in honor of Mrs. Leslie C. Carlisle
Rosemary Fisk and Howard Walthall
in honor of Ms. Grace A. Cook
Anonymous
in honor of Mrs. Alta Faye Fenton
Leah and Chip Treadwell
in honor of Mrs. Katherine C. Hughes
Anonymous
in honor of Mr. Randy and Mrs. Nancy Tribble
Marlene and Jonathan Cox
MEMORIALS
Anna Belle and Emmett Johnson
Legacy League Scholarship
Ann Sanders
Anonymous Donor
Brandon David Booker Memorial Scholarship
Amy and Taylor Beattie
Caitlin Creed Scholarship
Kathy and Brad Creed
Lynda Jentsch-Grooms and Bart Grooms
Cowley MK Scholarship
in memory of Dr. Bill and Mrs. Audrey Cowley
Patsy and Joe Arnold
Lauretta and Carlton Baker
Lisa and John Bryan
Melinda and Ralph Dressler
Allyson and David George
Rita and Fred Lakeman
Marian Leftwich
Khiet Ngu
Sharon and Hartwell Smith
Connie and Lee Taylor
Nancy & Randy Tribble
Mary Wimberley
Elouise Wilkins Williams Scholarship in memory of Ms. Anna E. Williams
Anonymous
Brenda and Doral Atkins
Judi and Paul Aucoin
Katherine and Billy Bishop
Carolyn Drennen
Peggy and Greg Powell
Jenny Smith
in memory of Mrs. Elouise W. Williams
Anonymous
Brenda and Doral Atkins
Judi and Paul Aucoin
Katherine and Billy Bishop
Amy Broeseker
Linda and Erick Cooper
Marla Corts
Carolyn Drennen
Jessellan Dunn
Liz Hutchins
Shellyn and Philip Poole
Connie Macon Rhea and Claude Rhea
Sharon and Hartwell Smith
The Hackney Foundation
June Whitlow **
Mary Wimberley
Glenn and Frances Slye Scholarship in memory of CWO Michael Anderson
Glenn Slye
Legacy League Scholarship in memory of Mrs. June S. Baggett
Lee and Bill Baggett
in memory of Mrs. Dianne Cleveland
Cheryl and Jim Landreth
in memory of Miss Ann Hobbs
Lynn and Stan Stepleton
in memory of Mrs. A. Gerow Hodges
Lucie Bynum
Carolyn Drennen
Jade & Juyuan Ji
Norman Stallings
in memory of Mr. Wade Morris
Kim and Michael Whatley
in memory of Dr. Ronald C. Sumners
Kelly and Arnold Mooney
in memory of Ms. Anna E. Williams
Rogers Helton
Daina and Randy Pittman
in memory of Mrs. Elouise W. Williams
Daina and Randy Pittman
Leslie Parkman Roe Scholarship for Missionary Dependents in memory of Miss June Whitlow
Brenda and Doral Atkins
Lizzie Campbell Brown Teacher Education Scholarship in memory of Ms. Dale E. Quin
Debbie Smith
Moffett & Sanders School of Nursing Centennial Scholarship in memory of Mary Broeseker
Amy Broeseker
The Mothers' Fund Scholarship in memory of Mrs. Belva Dozier Owen
Becky and John Bowdre
Karon and Birch Bowdre
Raymond and Bennie Sue Scroggins Legacy League Scholarship in memory of Rev. Amos Levi Courtney, Jr.
Myralyn and Stephen Allgood
Ruhama Baptist Church Scholarship in memory of Mrs. Jean D. Preston
Jane Cobia
Diane and Hunter Hinkle
in memory of Ruhama Baptist Church
Greater Emmanuel Temple Holiness Church
Samford University Legacy League in memory of Miss Gabrielle Hatcher
Anonymous
Samford's 175th Anniversary Legacy League Scholarship in memory of Mr. Hewlett Chervis Isom, Jr.
Brenda and Doral Atkins
©2024 Samford University
Katie Hughes, Editor
Contributors: Frances King Abrams, Dana Daniel Blake, Marla Corts, Sydney Foshee, Sadie Goodman, Maureen Hallman, Lori Hill, Jo Klepper, Laura Promer, Sharon Smith, Julie Taylor, Cynthia Walker WattsBarrineau, Jeanna Westmoreland, Shea Williams, Kathryn Woodru
Creative Services: Laura Hannah, Sarah Waller
Photography: Sarah Cook, Maureen Hallman, Deidre Lackey, Sharon Smith, Shea Williams, Kathryn Woodru
facebook.com/samfordlegacyleague @samfordlegacyleague
samford.edu/legacyleague
VOLUNTEERS SERVED OVER 5,700 HOURS IN 2023-24!
Thank you, thank you, thank you to over 350 volunteers who served in 2023-24. The volunteers listed below served 20+ hours in the past year and will be recognized at the Membership Kickoff Luncheon.
Frances Abrams
Caroline Adams
April Allen
Cindy Anderson
Rachel Ashford
Cindy Bembry
Molly Bee Bloetscher
Karen Boatright
Kasey Bodine
Deidre and George Booker
Dianne Booth
Karon Bowdre
Jennifer Brandon
Cynthia Brast-Eldredge
Ginger Brown
Ben Bryant
Rhonda Cantelow
Caroline Carlisle
Karen Carlisle
P.A. Carmichael
Trudy Cathy White
Kathy Clay
Inga Clum
Jan Cobb
Kristen Comer
Cathy Cook
Finlay Coupland
Phyllis Crocker
Julie Cundiff
Julie Davis
Meg Donovan
Diane Eggert
Katharine Faucett
Alta Faye Fenton
Kasey Fiscus
Sharon Fussell
Hollie Garner
Sheri Garrett
Jane George
Sarah Grace Givhan
Nancy Golden
Paula Gossett
Beth Gowing
Liz and Doug Guest
Julie Gunter
Claire Gwaltney
Marilyn Hallman
Charolette Hamby
Cindy Hardy
Sharon and Billy Harvill
Patricia Hawk
Marilyn Henry
Eliza Hudson
Katie Hughes
Alisa Hyde
Donna Jowers
Tania Kennamer
Lindsay Kessler
Cheryl Landreth
Amy Fenton Lee
Sarah Beth Magette
Christy McKiernan
Stewart McLaurin
Lilla Bea McMullan
Jess Mesrobian
Stacy Mintz
Tricia Naro
Becky Neuberger
Lynn Parrish
Anna Claire Pope
Lindsey Reed Curl
Tereasa Rima
Carol Rutledge
Ginny Scott
Jan Service
JoAnn Smith
Sheila Smith
Belinda Stroud
Morgan Elizabeth Stroud
Lori Sullivan
Jamie Tarence
Kathy and Tommy Thomson
Cynthia Watts-Barrineau
Pam Wood
Kathryn Woodruff
Mary Margaret Yeilding
There are many ways to participate in meaningful, manageable service—join us in transforming student lives! Learn more at the involvement fair at our Membership Kickoff Luncheon or find our online volunteer form at samford.edu/legacyleague/membership.
Legacy League
Samford University
800 Lakeshore Drive Birmingham, AL 35229
Reveille and Ringing In
by Julie Taylor
Onceagain, we find ourselves on the threshold of a new academic year at Samford University and a new year of ministry through the Samford University Legacy League.
Traditionally, after recruiting individuals with a common vision and for a common purpose, missional institutions – ranging from the United States Armed Forces to academic institutions like Samford – call their recruits, whether troops or new students, to line up, give attention, be counted and unite in purpose.
Since 1812 the U.S. military has used “Reveille,” a patriotic bugle call, to signal the start of a new day, to awaken the troops to line up to be counted and counted upon. In response to “Reveille,” soldiers are called to action and stand in silent observation during the raising of the U.S. flag. Before beginning their work of the day in service to their common mission, soldiers remind themselves of the values that bring them together. They start each new day being reminded of what unites them and with hope for a better world.
Although Howard College dispensed with military uniforms at the beginning of the 20th century, Samford utilizes a similar call to action. At the start of each school year, Samford welcomes all incoming students to formally matriculate by lining
up behind President Taylor and processing up Centennial Walk from Mr. Beeson’s statue to the steps of Davis Library. At the top of those symbolic steps, a symbol of their unity awaits them – their class bell. As each student “rings in” by cranking the bell’s arm and announcing their presence to all gathered there, they become united under the banner of Samford, a university that is “For God, for learning, forever!” Their charge at Samford is not simply to build a better life for themselves, but to build a better world to the glory of God.
As Samford students, they will be called to trust in the One who truly makes the world better, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. After ringing in, Samford students will be challenged by Christian faculty and staff to put into practice Philippians 4:8. “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.” For God, for learning, forever unites them from the very first ringing of the bell in the hope that the world will be better for it.
Like our military troops and Samford’s students, the membership of the Legacy League is similarly made up of individuals with a common vision who are united for a
common purpose and hope that the world will be better for its service. Two of our common purposes are, first, to provide scholarships for students with significant financial need and challenging circumstances and, second, to engage members and the broader community in meaningful volunteer opportunities, inspirational programs and caring relationships.
On the Legacy League crest is written Deuteronomy 6:10-12. These verses serve as our banner. These verses remind us of both the ministry that we have inherited and the work ahead of us to provide a legacy that will far outlast us. As we unite under this banner, we are looking for many to join our ranks! Instead of a bugle call or the ringing of a bell, our signal to line up will come to your mailbox in the form of an invitation to attend the Legacy League Membership Kickoff Luncheon in September.
How will you respond to this reveille? Will you reserve a seat or a table and invite others to carpool and join you? Will you join our ranks through volunteer opportunities? Will you help others to be counted in the work that will far outlast us all by giving the gift of a Legacy League membership?
I look forward to seeing you on Thursday, Sept. 19, as we unite for our common purpose and ring in a new year of ministry together!