S P R I N G
2 0 0 1
3 Renaissance 2001
4 Winter Graduation
6 Bolin Library for Pentecostal Research
April Wilson Enjoys Success at News Channel 8
features SPRING 2001
departments 4
President’s Perspective. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Winter Graduation
Alumni President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
6
Music. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Bolin Library for Pentecostal Research Dedication
Theatre
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
7 Master’s Commission
8 April Wilson at News Channel 8
12 In Memoriam Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Class Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Final Perspective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
President Mark Rutland Director of Alumni Relations Ed Maner Alumni Relations, Secretary Angie Cuzzone Editor Irvin Ziemann Contributors: Sandra Baldwin, Steven Fettke, Evan Gibson, Scott Laing, Sherry Lee, Trina Maner, Glenna Rakes, Paul Reynolds, Chris Tredway, and Michelle Tredway Graphic Design Bourgeois Graphic Design
The Southeasterner is published tri-annually and mailed by the Alumni Relations Office at no charge to the alumni, faculty, staff, and friends of Southeastern College. Postmaster: Send all address changes to Southeastern College, Advancement Office, 1000 Longfellow Boulevard, Lakeland, Florida, 33801. Please send information to: Alumni Relations Office Southeastern College 1000 Longfellow Boulevard Lakeland, Florida 33801 (863) 667-5020 alumni@secollege.edu
Cover Photo Jonni Nickol Photography
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THE SOUTHEASTERNER
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Please note: Southeastern College reserves the right to edit all copies sent to the office. Not all submissions will be published. Please include names and class years for all information or pictures sent. Southeastern College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex (in compliance with Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972), national and ethic origin, or handicap (in compliance with Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act), with regards to the admission and employment polices, the educational, financial aid, athletic or other programs and privileges to students at Southeastern College. www.secollege.edu
the pr esident’s perspective Renaissance 2001 Someone said of the last few years of Michael
and energized Southeastern.
Jordan’s unparalleled career, “Every time he stepped on
Really, you have to see it.
the court he broke a record.” Southeastern is becoming
Randy Valimont, Southeastern
like that. The fall enrollment was a record and now we
Alumni President, said, “Until I
have the largest spring enrollment ever.
saw it with my own eyes I couldn’t
Projections are always dangerous but based on the
believe the changes. In two years it
current level of applications we fully expect another
has become like a whole new campus
record enrollment for Fall 2001. Hold on to your hats, but
and it’s changing every day.”
in August we are preparing for 1300 (or more) students.
Renaissance 2001
Everything is absolutely cooking here. The all-new
You are herein invited and urged to attend
Southeastern Singers, a premier touring choir under the
Renaissance 2001 on April 26. That day we want you to
direction of Ray Jones, is wowing churches everywhere. Ray’s new
be entertained, tour the campus,
department’s creative productions
Yo u a r e c o r d i a l l y i n v i t e d to attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Alumni-Student Center
are exciting and Dr. Tindall’s music
April 26, 2001
Men’s Quartet is fabulous as well. Professor Rob McManus’ theater
department is producing Southeastern’s first opera— Mozart’s Magic Flute. The basketball team is redhot, the baseball team is warming up and the campus is buzzing.
New Buildings The beautiful new Aventura
6:00 p.m. Immediately following t h e c e r e m o n y,
Southeastern College’s Alumni Association ANNUAL ALUMNI BANQUET
Renaissance 2001 7:00 p.m.
The evening will feature Southeastern’s first
enjoy friends and experience the Renaissance. That day we will break ground on the fabulous new Alumni-Student Center ($2.5 million). You will tour the campus, see the fabulous improvements and see where the new Sports-Plex ($2 million) will be. Then go to the new Southeastern Players’ first full dinner theater. Dress informally, enjoy some down-home cooking
full-fledged dinner theater, as you dine on some
Residence Hall is occupied and phase II is underway. We expect to break ground in 2001 on at least two more buildings and extensive renovations on several others are being done even as I
“down-home cooking.” The three one-act plays, written by our very own Dr. Mark Rutland, are guaranteed to make you laugh. Join us for this exciting evening and enjoy the Buckhorn Trilogy,
and laugh yourself silly at a new comedy, the Buckhorn Trilogy. Come see the all-new
performed by our theater department.
Southeastern and stay for a
The dinner is free; however, it will be a ticketed
delightful evening of dinner
event and reservations are required. There is
theater. As Randy Valimont said,
limited seating, so make your reservations early!
write this. The campus, with its excellent new look, is a modern
“Seeing is believing.” To make a reservation please call the Alumni Office at:
863-667-5020 www.secollege.edu
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SPRING 2001
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Left: Stephen Strang gives the commencement address; Above: L-R Jared Edgar, Professor Duane Brown and alumna Janet Cotton; Right: Professor Gary Pickens and Keith Devine.
Winter raduation
G 2000
hether it was the last graduating class of the old millennium or the first winter class of the new is still up for debate, but for those who walked the line, it was a night to remember. Commencement exercises for the Class of 2000 took place on Friday, December 8, 2000 at Carpenter’s Home Church. Approximately 1,300 were in attendance to see the 94 students become graduates. While many graduation ceremonies have taken place at Carpenter’s over the years, this was the first off-campus winter graduation due to the number of graduates. “We are very happy with the growth of our enrollment, but it means we have outgrown our Chapel for events like graduation,” says Dr. Robert Herron, VicePresident for Academic Affairs. “Most graduates are willing to celebrate Commencement off campus if it means more of their family and friends can share in the experience.” Immediately following the ceremony, a reception was held in the church lobby. This year brought another change: graduation came a week earlier than usual. Dr. Herron shares, “We have begun holding Commencement the Friday before final exam week so that the graduates’ friends and classmates can join in the celebration before leaving. Everyone seems to appreciate the opportunity to participate in Commencement.” The Chamber Singers combined with
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the Concert Choir, under the direction of Ron Brendel, Associate Professor of Music, and Dr. Danny Tindall, the Music Department Chairman, led a full orchestra. “The worship in music was truly exceptional,” adds Dr. Herron. Stephen Strang, an award winning journalist, entrepreneur, businessman and Christian leader, offered the commencement address. He is the founder of Strang Communications Company, which publishes such magazines as Charisma & Christian Life, Ministries Today, Spirit Led Woman and New Man, to name a few. His words of encouragement inspired students who were eager to receive their degrees and enter the next phase of their lives. Dr. Strang had a gift for each graduate: for the men, his most recent book, Old Man, New Man, and for the ladies, 10 Lies the Church Tells Women, by J. Lee Grady. While Dr. Rutland conferred bachelor’s degrees upon over 90 candidates, a graduate student was among those earning degrees. Joseph Sazyc, Jr. received a Master of Arts in Biblical Literature. Southeastern College is a Branch Campus for the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary. To order a video of the Commencement service, contact the Southeastern College Bookstore at (863) 667-5047. If you still need to order graduation photographs, contact Jonni Nickol Photography at (863) 687-8986. www.secollege.edu
Spring Graduation 2001
Kristy Elizabeth Hite
Joseph Shane Comellas
B.A., Middle School English
B.A., Bible
Amy Michele Mixer*
Joshua Keith Cook
B.A., Middle School English
B.A., Pre-Seminary
Leaha Suzanne Anderson Shaikh
Sandra Ruth Derrenberger
B.A., Secondary English
B.A., Missions
J. Keith Devine*
Commencement Service
Music Education
April 27, 2001
Mary Ann Booher
B.A., Pastoral Ministry
Travis Lee Farmer
B.A., Secondary Education K-12
Victory Assembly of God
Crystal Marie Greer*
Lakeland, Florida
B.A., Secondary Education K-12
B.A., Pastoral Ministry
William David Futrell B.A., Pastoral Ministry
Stephanie Jean Johnson We invite all of our alumni to attend this wonderful event. Immediately following the ceremony, you are invited to attend a reception welcoming our newest members into the Alumni Association.
B.A., Secondary Education K-12
Elizabeth Marie Hughes*
Natural Science and Mathematics Education
James Brent Kennedy
B.A., Children’s Ministry B.A., Youth Ministry
Arthur Jay Gray***
Melissa Annette Krueger
B.A., Secondary Biology
B.A., Youth Ministry
Raymond J. Hart
Richard Wayne Mason
B.A., Secondary Mathematics
B.A., Pastroal Ministry
Carrie Marie Holaski*
Department of Behavioral & Social Sciences
Shae Kathlene Henson
Amanda Yvonne Butler**
Jacqueline Yvonne Holloman
B.A., Psychology
B.A., Pre-Kindergarten/Primary
B.A., Elementary
Robin Amorette Button
Sharon Kwon Hounchell
B.A., Psychology
B.A., Pre-Kindergarten/Primary
Christian Michael Fox
Anna Viola Landin
B.A., Psychology
B.A., Elementary
Sue Allyn Latter
Maxwell Kirkland Merritt, IV*
B.A., Secondary Biology
B.A., Pastoral Ministry
Ruth Jordan Slay
Jerry Lee Nettrour
B.A., Middle School Mathematics
B.A., Pastoral Counseling
Paul David Van Fleet
Bernice Ortiz
B.A., Secondary Biology
B.A., Pastoral Ministry
Zadot Alexis Velez
Wendell Kawood Roddenberry**
B.A., Secondary Biology
B.A., Bible
Jerome Gabriel Sack
Donna Lou Lawrence***v
Department of Language and Communication Arts
B.A., Psychology
B.A., Elementary
Holly W. Betterton
Tara Leigh Pemberton
Victoria Elsa Lechner
B.A., English
Steven Adam Shinn
B.A., Psychology
B.A., Elementary
Joshua Noe Cottongim
Catrina Benita Smith
Jimmy Allen Lisenby
B.A., English
B.A., Psychology
B.A., Elementary
Melissa Jean Hazelbaker
B.A., Missions B.A., Youth Ministry
Jason Anthony Smock B.A., Missions
Eric Scott Speir
Joy Christine Tindall**
Evelyn Lopez
B.A., English
B.A., Pastoral Ministry
B.A., Psychology
B.A., Elementary
Lisa Marie Johnson
Lydia Elizabeth Rios Torres*
Stacey C. Newton
B.A., English & Intercultural Studies
Tempie Roshelle Kitchens Speir
B.A., Psychology
B.A., Pre-Kindergarten/Primary
Darin Nicholas Metz***v
Ronald Edwin Vreeland, Jr.***
Allison Leigh Pinion
B.A., English
B.A., Psychology
B.A., Elementary
Joseph Michael Pierce
Department of Business
Rachel Leigh Poszywak
B.S., Communication
B.A., Elementary
Christopher Matthew Powell
Sarah Christine Puckett*
B.A., Communication
B.A., Pastoral Ministry
B.A., Pre-Kindergarten/Primary
Amanda Lynn Rednour B.A., Communication
John Earl White
Theresa Dianne Ramirez
Department of Education Education
B.A., Elementary
Laime Lynn Vaughn
Teresa Beth Sawyer
B.A., Communication
B.A., Elementary
Andrea Marie Assid*
Department of Religion
Susan Caroline Schied
Teddy Lawrence Farina* B.A., Management
Lorraine Vigo-Acosta B.A., Management
B.A., Elementary
Tara James Barnes B.A., Pre-Kindergarten/Primary
Olivia Ferrell Brumbaugh B.A., Elementary
Suzanne Lee Carden** B.A., Elementary
Jaimee Lynn Coad B.A., Elementary
Andrea Lyn Tanner Freeland B.A., Elementary
Jessica Charlene Greenhalgh* B.A., Elementary
Kate Elizabeth Hayman***s B.A., Elementary www.secollege.edu
B.A., Pastoral Ministry
Chester William Spellman B.A., Pastoral Ministry
Brian L. Temple B.A., Youth Ministry
Joseph F. Tully
B.A., Bible
Samuel Isaac Agee***v
Degree Candidates Graduate Program Assemblies of God Theological Seminary
B.A., Elementary
B.A., Pastoral Ministry
Jospeh Sazye, Jr.
Jennifer Leigh Smallwood
Jessica Leigh Bailey
B.A., Elementary
B.A., Missions
Masters of Arts in Biblical Literature
Kristina Lynn Torbett*
Keith William Benson
B.A., Elementary
B.A., Youth Ministry
Natalie VanDeventer
Nanette Claire Brissette
B.A., Elementary
B.S., Church Ministries
Justin E. Woods
Thomas Blain Brown**
B.A., Elementary
B.A., Pastoral Ministry
Language and Communication Arts Education
Kenith Charles Burdet
Lauren Elaina Applewhite
Allison Rachel Carter
B.A., Secondary English
B.A., Children’s Ministry
B.A., Pastoral Ministry
Steven Dale Coad B.S., Church Ministries
HONORS Graduating Seniors who have completed at least 64 credits at Southeastern College and achieved a high grade point average on a 4.0 scale receive the following honors: * ** *** v s
Cum laude (with honor) 3.50-3.74 Magna cum laude (with high honor) 3.75-3.89 Summa cum laude (with highest honor) 3.90-4.00 Valedictorian – Highest in Scholastic Rank Salutatorian – 2nd Highest in Scholastic Rank Honors designations are determined by the cumulative grade point average at the end of the penultimate semester.
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Left: District Superintendent Terry Rayburn with Mary Jo Bolin-Houser Below: The ribbon-cutting with Mary Jo Bolin-Houser and Dr. and Mrs. Rutland
Bolin Library for Pentecostal
Research
Dedication uring the administration of Dr. Mark Rutland, one crowning achievement has been the renovation of the Jerome E. Bolin Hall. Together with classrooms, faculty offices, and the communications studio, Bolin Hall houses the new Bolin Library for Pentecostal Research. On November 14, 2000, Dr. Rutland, faculty, staff, students and special guests gathered for the dedication and ribboncutting ceremony. “With the generosity of the late Jerome E. Bolin and his wife, Mary Jo Bolin-Houser, we are able to join with a number of other prestigious universities in the creation of a special collection to preserve the Pentecostal and Assemblies of God heritage,” states Dr. Rutland. “We invite you to pray for this effort, help us identify worthy acquisitions, and visit us for your research and enjoyment.” The collection focuses on the origin, history, development and theology of the Pentecostal movement as represented in its denominations and charismatic ministries worldwide. The collection also includes works of art, documents and artifacts representing the Pentecostal movement, especially those related to the Assemblies of God in the southeastern United States. The Superintendents of Southeastern College’s eight supporting districts have generously donated funds to further develop the collection. If you would like to join with the Bolin Library for Pentecostal Research in
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preserving our religious and spiritual heritage, you may assist in the following ways: To contribute materials that you believe fit the mission of the Bolin Library, please contact us. To make a financial contribution, please make a check payable to Southeastern College with the notation that the funds are designated for the Bolin Library.
Contact Information Mr. Francisco Arriola, Director Bolin Library for Pentecostal Research Southeastern College 1000 Longfellow Boulevard Lakeland, FL 33801 (863) 667-5146 • frarriol@secollege.edu www.secollege.edu
he Collegiate Master’s Commission (CMC) is moving toward fall registration with over 150 prospective students interested in the 100 spaces available in year one of the recently expanded twoyear program. “Southeastern CMC students are praying diligently for the Lord to send laborers into His harvest field,” says Dr. Wayne Lee, Vice President of Ministries Development and executive director of Collegiate Master’s Commission. “The apparent move of God upon the hearts of the young people of this generation is astounding.” Some of the students completing the first year will return in the fall of 2001 for a second year now that the program has been broadened. Sherry Lee, director of CMC, comments, “We are compelled by the hunger for God exhibited in these young hearts. We must respond to the Lord’s timing.” When asked about the primary ingredients contributing to the success of CMC, Dr. Lee replied, “The cooperation we are receiving from area churches and their leadership is the number one reason why our students are receiving an optimum experience. Without the dedicated pastors, staff pastors, trainers, and laity who invest in these future ministry leaders, the program would not be viable.” No doubt when Dr. Lee replies, he is speaking of pastors like Wes White, pastor of the Dade City Assembly of God, and Ed Sattesahn of Clermont Assembly of God, who drive at least an hour one-way to participate in 6:45 a.m. prayer three days a week and personally mentor the students who are assigned to their churches. Nine area churches are participating as host churches for the program this year. These churches provide transportation, host families, outreach experiences, and some have assisted with student’s finances for CMC missions trips. Although opportunities for ministry are rich in host churches, many other possibilities exist. Plans for spring semester outreach groups and a summer tour group are progressing. Drama, music, and preaching coaches are being utilized to prepare students for ministry through fine arts presentations of human videos, drama vignettes, worship, and preaching. Sunday evening outreaches to churches in Florida are a part of the spring semester experience, and students are now auditioning for summer tour experiences for summer 2001. “To reach their generation, these youth are willing to do the hard work of hours of practice so the anointing of the Spirit can flow through their God-given gifts and special abilities,” says
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CMC coordinator Steve Gallagher. “They are passionate to see their generation won for Christ.” Other opportunities include summer ministry experiences in participating churches throughout the southeast. Summer ministry involvement maximizes classroom instruction, clarifies giftings and callings and prepares students for new levels of leadership. Yet other possibilities for optimum ministry development are the missions trips which occur each semester. A home missions trip to the Dream Center in Los Angeles, California is being considered for fall 2001. Trips to the Appalachian District and to Central America were planned into the 2000-2001 offerings. In order to be accepted into the Collegiate Master’s Commission, students must be accepted by Southeastern College and complete a qualifying interview. A strong desire for ministry and spiritual growth are essential, and a strong academic background is recommended since CMC is such an intense program.
Is Ready for Expansion!
www.secollege.edu
The apparent move of God upon the hearts of the young people of th is generation is astounding.
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ON THE CUTTING EDGE
APR I L WI L S ON at News Channel 8 t’s not for the faint of heart. Seconds set the tempo; precise timing, flawless execution and creative improvisation determine success. But for April Wilson, it’s just another day at the office. Tampa’s NBC affiliate, WFLA, is the news leader in the Bay Area, and April (Grosshans) Wilson, a 1997 graduate, is part of the team that makes it happen. The Tampa-St. Petersburg-Sarasota market ranks 14th in the nation, following cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Detroit. Being in the top 15 market demands a high standard, and News Channel 8 has risen to that challenge. Led by veteran anchors Bob Hite and Gayle Sierens, Channel 8 is number one in the Tampa market. And they’re not stopping there. Always on the cutting edge, News Channel 8 has joined forces with The Tampa Tribune and Tampa Bay Online: three separate media outlets housed under one roof, allowing the public unprecedented access to news and information resources. This partnership raises the bar in the Bay Area.
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As the producer of News Channel 8 The Weekend Edition, April does her part to maintain the high quality that Channel 8 viewers have come to expect. “Much of our success is because of the huge amount of work that goes into our newscasts,” April says. “Every person’s job is essential.” Her job description is difficult to condense into a “one-liner.” “Basically, a producer is the glue that holds everything together,” says April. She is responsible for the time-line of the newscast, deciding what stories to include in the show, how to transition from one to the other and what changes to make if a newscast is running over-time. She even gets to choose the “squeezes,” the little box in the top corner that corresponds with the story. She has every second planned, so when breaking news comes in, she scrambles to rearrange the remainder of the show to finish in the allotted time. Wearing the hats of writer, researcher and editor, to name a few, she oversees the show line-up and follows up with reporters, making sure the video segments are in the studio, cued www.secollege.edu
and ready to go. The pressure would be overwhelming to most, but April thrives. “I had no idea that I’d love news so much.” In the midst of this stressful and often times chaotic career, April’s marriage helps to keep her grounded. She wed Dave Wilson, a friend since childhood, in the summer of 1997. His support and encouragement help her to find relief from the stress of her job. April refers to him as “the calm one,” which is also a handy trait in the classroom. Dave, a 1996 graduate, is in his fourth year of teaching, and currently teaches 5th grade Math and Science at North Lakeland Elementary. “He’s a lifesaver,” April says, “I don’t know how I would have done in this business without his support.” April adds that her parents have also been instrumental in her success. “They’ve given me such a godly perspective in the midst of all the craziness of the business.” As for how she got to this place, April is very grateful that God has been at work in this from the beginning. During the fall of 1996, she began to look for an internship, needing to have continued on page 15
Marichelli Heredia gets direction from Assistant Professor Wade Mumm
Communications at Southeastern One of the most valuable
many classroom hours you have,”
elements of April’s education was
says Wade Mumm, Assistant
the opportunity to work on projects
Professor of Communication. He
and gain experience. A unique
continues, “With the Communication
feature of the Communication
major, we strive to maintain a
major involves providing students
strong balance between a theory
with a broad base of available
of communications and practical
hands-on training, which is
experience.” Students recognize
important in a business in which
the importance of such an approach.
“Where you go depends on what
Bianca Buckridee, a senior
you can do, not necessarily how
Communication major, chose Southeastern for this very reason. “I had visited larger, well-known schools, and I felt that I would have to fight for studio time. But Southeastern gave me access to practical, hands-on time in the studio and on the field.” Graduates with the Communication major have gone on to careers in TV and Radio Broadcasting, Marketing, Public Relations, and newspaper and magazine publication, to name a few. The students are honing their gifts and talents and going into the world to be salt and light. Wade Mumm adds, “We endeavor to produce professionals who approach this business of communications from a Christian world view.”
www.secollege.edu
THE SOUTHEASTERNER
SPRING 2001
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thoughts from your alumni president The Tale of Two Institutions
I
n October of 1999, my Music Pastor and I were asked
between the two schools.
to represent the Assemblies of God at Yale Divinity
At Southeastern, under
School. The school was studying six styles of worship and
the leadership of our
asked the Assemblies of God to be represented. We were
president, Dr. Mark Rutland,
each given forty minutes to present the musical style as
we are combining theory
well as the theological reasoning of our worship. I was
with practice at an
excited to be going to an Ivy League College and to revisit
incredibly high level. The
some of the great historical places that some of the
religious school is
founding religious fathers of our nation had graced. As I
producing some of the
walked into the Divinity School cafeteria, lying on the
most dedicated men and women ever to walk through the
tables were brochures advertising a gay and lesbian
doors of our school. As our President took the Alumni
divinity school party. It got worse. As I walked into the
Officers on a tour of the campus and shared what was
chapel, I saw a young lady who I found out later was a
happening, I was overwhelmed with a sense of God’s destiny
second year Master of Divinity student who was pacing
and grace that is being poured out on our college. I was
the chapel floor. I asked her why she seemed so nervous
thrilled as Dr. Rutland began telling us about some of the
and she said that she was going to be preaching in front
million dollar miracles that had taken place on campus.
of her professors and she knew that most of them didn’t agree with what she was about to share. I asked her what
that is second to none in the nation. I was impressed to
was so controversial and she replied, “The Virgin Birth!”
see that Southeastern has the most technically advanced
Time and space won’t allow me to tell everything
classrooms in the entire southeast. The cumulative grade
that happened in that particular setting. One of the
point average of the freshman class is 3.3. This simply
professors that I had met pulled me to the side and he
means that these young men and women’s hearts are
shared with me that he was an ordained Methodist
longing for God and that they are serious about learning
minister who had received his doctorate in Religious
the truths of God’s Word and being the best they can be.
History from Notre Dame. He was concerned, and feared
Last but not least, most of us don’t have fond memories
that the Pentecostal-Charismatic movement in America
of our college cafeteria. The greatest miracle was that not
was taking the same direction that the Methodist church
only has the cafeteria undergone a $150,000 facelift, but
took in the early 1900’s. That direction was putting theory
the food is excellent! Can you believe that? Excellent!
over practices, which can produce a dead, dry religion and minister.
It was with great pride that I witnessed first hand what God is doing on our campus. As your Alumni
Recently I was privileged to come to Lakeland to
10
I was amazed as I walked into the new dormitory
President, let me encourage you to do something. Please
speak at one of the chapel services. As I walked into the
come visit Southeastern College! What is happening is
chapel, I found it packed with exuberant and vibrant
truly miraculous. You will see the brand new buildings
students who were worshiping and praising God. As the
and the renovated buildings. You’ll get excited about the
Word of God was preached, the students were very
proposed $2,000,000 sports complex which will include
receptive. As the altar call was given, scores of students
the new gymnasium as well as the baseball and soccer
came to respond to a move of God in their hearts and
fields. You’ll hear about the brand new cafeteria that will
lives. I mention this to state the spiritual contrasts
be erected soon, and you’ll get excited as I did that Bauer
THE SOUTHEASTERNER
SPRING 2001
www.secollege.edu
and Bethany Halls will each receive $1,000,000 in renovations.
alumni president
But before you leave, visit the Bolin Library for Pentecostal Research and see how our heritage is being modeled for our religion students and how our President is making sure that every School of Religion student who walks through the
Alumni Reception at General Council Alumni, you are invited to attend the
library doors knows we are a Pentecostal people. Finally,
Southeastern College Alumni Reception at General
attend a chapel service. In a day when it seems as though
Council, which will be held in Kansas City. The
students have lost direction, work ethics have been abandoned
reception will take place on Wednesday, August 8,
and apathy has been embraced, absorb the presence of God as
2001 at the Marriott Hotel immediately following
hundreds of students seek after God with all their hearts.
the evening service. While enjoying refreshments
Stand amazed as I did that within the walls of the chapel are
and visiting with friends from the college, join us to
the men and women who could change our nation and bring
hear a word from President Mark Rutland to find
us back to God.
out what is happening at Southeastern College. We
I am so thankful for what God did in my life through
look forward to seeing you there.
Southeastern College when I was a student there. I want to challenge every individual reading this column to join Jelly and me in being a part of the present and the future of our
Assemblies of God Theological Seminary & Southeastern College
college by doing two things: Come and visit Southeastern, and make an investment of your financial resources so that we can ensure that this generation does have at their disposal the very best that can be offered. The students along with the faculty and staff are taking pride in the fact God is using them to
partner to bring you the best in
Graduate Education Summer 2001 New Testament Theology
change His world. A Tale of Two Institutions is an interesting
BTHB 532, 3 credits
contrast: (One college has a passion and purpose for God and
April 30-May 4, 2001
the other has lost its hope in the reality of God.) Southeastern
8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Dr. Charles Estridge
College is a vibrant mechanism, poised to be used by God to
Counseling Essentials
change the world for Him. Please make plans to come and
PCPB 548, 3 credits
gather with numerous alumni during Graduation to be a part
May 14-18, 2001
of the great awakening here at Southeastern.
8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Dr. Larry Hazelbaker
Because He Lives,
Preaching Themes from Isaiah BTHB 646, 3 credits
June 11-15, 2001 Alumni President
8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Dr. Steve Fettke
Leading and Developing Lay Ministers PTHB 525, 3 credits
May 21-25, 2001 Alumni Officers Rev. Randy Valimont - President Dr. Drexel Brunson - First Vice President Rev. Jim Wellborn - Second Vice President Dr. Sherrie Nickell - Secretary
www.secollege.edu
8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Dr. Bill Hackett Contact Dr. Charles Estridge Southeastern College/AGTS Branch Campus 1000 Longfellow Blvd. • Lakeland, FL 33801 863-667-5149 or 800-467-2487 E-mail: caestrid@secollege.edu
THE SOUTHEASTERNER
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A Tribute to Frank Porricelli, Sr. friend to all, Frank Porricelli, Sr., passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack and went home to be with the Lord on Friday, December 8, 2000. He was 73. He is survived by his wife of 18 years, Rita; two sons, Frank and Larry; two daughters, Carol and JoAnn; six stepchildren; nine grandchildren, and three stepgrandchildren. Three grandchildren (Matthew, Michael, and Sarah) live in Lakeland, and he enjoyed them immensely. His first great-granddaughter, Gillian Noel, was born in Connecticut the day of his memorial service. The memorial service took place at Southside Assembly of God in Lakeland, Florida where 200 friends and family attended. Another memorial service was held in his beloved home in Connecticut, and he was laid to rest near his granddaughter, Leah, who preceded him in death.
A
After his conversion in Connecticut, Frank Sr. became President of the Full Gospel Businessmen’s Fellowship International. Upon his arrival in Lakeland in 1988, he became President of the Lakeland Chapter of the FGBMFI, a title he still carried at his death. After retiring from Disney, Frank decided he needed something to do, so he began work at Southeastern, serving lunch in the cafeteria every day. His boss just happened to be his son, Frank Jr., who is the manager of Chartwells Food Service on campus. Urging everyone to take “just one more french fry,” or “one more dessert,” Frank won the hearts of students, Frank Sr. in his traditional Christmas attire. faculty and staff. He became such a well-known and beloved figure on campus that he was asked to play the part of a New York cop in the musical Guys and Dolls last year. He had the accent (born in the Bronx) and the personality that perfectly fit the character. He thoroughly enjoyed the experience, saying, “It kept me young.” Frank was also well known for his love of writing: poetry, letters to the editor, and in progress – a play. Frank will be sorely missed by his Southeastern family.
Mabel Willetts Memorial Rev. Mabel Willetts, former Dean of Women during the Graves Administration, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, December 20, 2000, in Frostburg, MD. During her extended tenure of service with the Assemblies of God as an evangelist, missionary and minister, Mabel labored in the U.S., India, Burma, Japan, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Rangoon, Bangladesh, Malaysia and Thailand. She served as the Dean of Women from 1948-1956 and 1968-1969, and taught Christian etiquette, personal evangelism, typology, and poetical books. Rev. Royce Shelton, former Southeastern Registrar, was a student then, and he took Christian etiquette with Sister Willetts. He remembers, “She was a perfect model of the principles contained therein and my life was greatly influenced.”
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THE SOUTHEASTERNER
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www.secollege.edu
Audrey Frazier Memorial Scholarship
A
special thank you to Rev. Cortez Frazier and the
C. Frazier, who serves as the Academic Dean at the
Peninsular Florida District Council for the
Assemblies of God college in Minsk, Belarus. Jonathan is
establishment of the Audrey Frazier Memorial
a 1992 graduate of Southeastern, and holds a degree
Scholarship for students majoring in Missions. For 41
from AGTS in Springfield as well.
years Audrey was the beloved wife and ministry partner
Audrey’s passing on August 22, 2000, came just seven
of Cortez Frazier, pastor of Suncoast Cathedral in
days before their 41st anniversary. She was a beloved
St. Petersburg, Florida, and an Executive Presbyter of
wife, an excellent ministry partner and a superb mother
the Peninsular Florida District Council. What a wonderful
and grandmother. And Audrey loved Southeastern
way to honor and remember the life of an extraordinary lady! Audrey was born May 10, 1940, in Winter Garden, Florida, and she was called by the Lord to be a pastor’s wife when she was only 8 years old. An active member at First Assembly of God in Winter
College. Over the years, Cortez and Audrey directed many a student here, because, as Pastor Frazier says, “We gave them three choices: Southeastern College, Southeastern College and Southeastern College.” Pastor Frazier chose to designate the scholarship to a Missions
Garden, she loved playing the
student not only because
piano and singing, and she
their son is a missionary, but
spent her childhood and teen
also because of Audrey’s
years preparing for a life of
heart for missions, which was
ministry. In the fall of 1958,
evidenced in the last days of
she came to Southeastern,
her life. On Sunday night,
where she traveled with the
August 20, the General
college’s choir, ensemble and
Superintendent from West
trio. That year she met Cortez
Africa was the guest speaker at
“Corky” Frazier, and they were
Suncoast Cathedral. At the close
married August 29, 1959. The newlyweds began a home missions work in Anniston, Alabama, but their ministry later took them to Florida, Georgia, back to Alabama, and again to Florida. Cortez and
of the service, a missions offering was taken. “Audrey gave everything that she could find in her pocketbook,” Pastor Frazier shares, “We found her offering envelope the day after she died.” This
Audrey served in district ministry in Alabama and
poignant expression will continue to be remembered as
Georgia. While in Macon, Georgia, Audrey completed her
students who use this scholarship prepare to take the
education, graduating from Mercer University with a B.A.
message of Jesus to those who have yet to hear.
in Education. Most recently, Audrey and Cortez served as
The scholarship, initiated by an offering received at
senior pastors at Suncoast Cathedral, where she is lovingly
Audrey’s memorial service, currently totals $9,600 and it
remembered as “The First Lady of Suncoast, a Woman of
continues to grow. If you would like to contribute to this
Refinement and Gentle Manners.”
fund, please make a check payable to Southeastern College,
The Fraziers have two children: Melody Joy Hammond, who lives in Madison, Alabama, and missionary Jonathan
www.secollege.edu
and designate it to the Audrey Frazier Memorial Scholarship. You may send your gift in the enclosed envelope.
THE SOUTHEASTERNER
SPRING 2001
13
The Million Dollar Difference
I
magine giving a gift of $25 a month and having a
then in giving to an institution that is training the
million dollar impact. Is this feasible? Yes! How? In an
missionaries and leaders of tomorrow. It will take every church doing their part to reach our goal.
attempt to fund the operational expenses of the college,
Pastors, I urge you, do your part and include
we are encouraging all pastors within our eight supporting districts to add Southeastern to their missions giving
Southeastern College in your monthly missions giving.
program at a minimum of $25 a month. That’s only $300 a
The million-dollar difference is up to you. Together we will
year! One may think, “What kind of impact will that giving
impact the world.
add?” It could potentially have a million dollar impact to
Ed Maner Institutional Advancement
the college annually. In the year 2000, Southeastern College received
Number of churches in district
400
donations from 335 churches within our eight supporting
Number of churches that give
367
districts. With a total of 1,685 churches in those districts
350
336
that leaves 1,350 churches which could potentially give. 300
with $25 a month, and the regular monthly supporters continued to give, the college would have a combined unrestricted giving total exceeding $900,000 from the supporting district churches alone.
# OF CHURCHES
If 80% of the non-giving churches supported Southeastern
250
230 216
200
172 155
150
Many churches have the resources to give $50, $100, or even $500 to the college on a monthly basis, so the million-dollar mark is within reach. I don’t know of a better
108
101
100
96 77
50
45
way to invest missions dollars 0 Alabama
39
26
15
Georgia Appalachian
1
36
Peninsular Southeastern North Florida South Spanish West Carolina Carolina Florida
DISTRICTS
Southeastern College’s Supporting Districts Alabama District Appalachian District Georgia District North Carolina District Peninsular Florida District South Carolina District Southeastern Spanish District West Florida District 14
THE SOUTHEASTERNER
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www.secollege.edu
SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS Bohlayer Fund Scholarship
Albert L. Hughes $500.00 Albert J. Leon $500.00 Marcus L. McDonald $1,000.00 Breusch Scholarship Joshua N. Cottongim $250.00 Charles and Gwynneth Lee Scholarship Maxwell K. Merritt VI $600.00 Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarship Brandi J. Weyandt $5,000.00
Cyrill H. Homer Living Memorial Scholarship Kami L. Ahonen $1,000.00 Michael E. Black $1,000.00 Esther Solberg Memorial Scholarship Melissa A. Witt $1,000.00 Foster W. Bolin Memorial Scholarship Timothy J. Kern $1,000.00 Jeffrey N. MacIntosh $1,000.00 Jerome G. Sack $1,000.00 Brian L. Temple $1,000.00
John Myers Missions Scholarship Tara D. Gentry $300.00 Joseph and Eloise Judah Missions Scholarship Jessica L. Bailey $500.00 Southeastern College National Merit Scholarship John M. Bullock $1,500.00 Karen J. Dondzila $3,000.00 Shayla O. Hanson $3,000.00 UPS Foundation Scholarship Christopher J. Wade $3,000.00
April Wilson continued from page 9 a position by the April 1997 deadline for graduation. She applied for internships in New York, Toronto and L.A., but when Dave proposed in January, she realized she would need to find something local. April began looking in Tampa and Orlando, but she never even considered an internship in a news department. “I always thought I’d start in a small time studio or something,” she says. In March, a friend introduced her to News Channel 8 Polk County Reporter Jennifer Leigh, who offered April the chance to intern with her. April says, “I couldn’t believe it! Usually it’s not that easy to get an internship, but it just so happened that in the fall of ’97 they were really light when it came to student internships.” Her meeting to arrange the internship came just two days before her internship due date. “The whole spring semester I questioned God’s timing for me and His will for my life,” she remembers. “He taught me to be patient and wait for Him. He had always come through for me and once again, even 48 hours before the due date, He did!” In the fall of ‘97 April began working with Jennifer on field reporting, but it wasn’t what she was looking for. Jennifer took April to the studio in Tampa, and when she saw the producers writing, she knew that’s what she wanted www.secollege.edu
to do. She was able to intern at the studio, and a few of the producers took the eager apprentice under their wings. But nothing was handed to April. “With TV, you learn by osmosis. You have to learn by being there, by standing there and watching, and then by getting involved. You have to be willing to commit 110%, and go above and beyond,” she advises. And it’s advice that she has followed. Wanting more experience than just her internship hours, April began going into work on her days off. “I used to grab all of Bob and Gayle’s scripts when they would throw them away, and I would take them home and read them and learn how to write.” Little by little, producers allowed her to do writing for them, and when a part-time Associate Producer position came open, April was recommended for the job. The timing was perfect. “Dave had just told me that I had to start looking for a job the next week, and when they hired me, we were so shocked!” April remembers. She worked for a year as a part-time Associate Producer before they hired her as a full-time A.P. Then, after 6 months, she was ready to take the next step to producing. “Basically, news is trial by fire, and you just jump in and go,” she says. A year after being hired full-time, she earned her own
show. She currently produces News Channel 8 The Weekend Edition. “But they’re always moving you, so it makes it fun.” April enjoys the fast pace and the challenge of doing something new. When asked about her career goals, she responds, “I always have trouble with that because there is just so much to offer in the world of media and TV…I hope to move onto a more ‘lifestyles’ approach to television. Discovery and the Travel Channel are my two favorite stations. If I could be involved in that kind of content in the future, I would love it. Dave and I also have a huge heart for missions, so we are keeping our hearts open to where God will lead us - what He says goes.” Wherever she is, April will continue to be a witness. “In this business, you find these people who have seen it all, have heard it all, they know it all, and now [they just] really need it lived out in front of them,” she says. “It’s not talking about salvation … it’s just living it.” April continues to work hard and reach higher goals, but with Christ at the center of her life, she’s already made it to the top.
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the arts NBA’s Orlando Magic hosted the Portland Trailblazers. In addition to the large crowd, a camera crew from the Florida Sunshine Network and another group broadcasting to Spain were also present. The Trumpet Ensemble received thunderous applause from the fans and were given tickets to enjoy the game that featured marquee players such as Scottie Pippen and Tracy McGrady. Although this was the group’s largest outing to date, this kind of performance is nothing new to these students. The Detroit Tigers hold spring training in
Orlando Magic Host Southeastern College Trumpet Ensemble
T
Lakeland and have extended an invitation for the ensemble to perform on several different occasions for more than 7,000 fans at each game. The ensemble is an interesting mixture of personalities and musical interests, each representing one of the
he Southeastern College Trumpet Ensemble is made
different degree programs offered in the Music Department.
up of a group of talented music majors who have
Dave Rivera, Jarrod Woods and James Gugle are music
become accustomed to playing before crowds of thousands.
education majors. Adam Willis and Rhett Jarrett are
At their last outing, 14,500 people were in attendance as
pursuing degrees in church music and Brent Beesley is
these students performed the national anthem when the
double majoring in ministry and music performance. Even though all are considering different career paths they are all serious about one thing, making good music.
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www.secollege.edu
the arts Music Student News The Music Department of Southeastern College is pleased to announce that one of their seniors has secured a prestigious music position within the Lakeland Community. Elizabeth Harrison, a piano major, has been named Instructor of Piano at Lakeland Christian School. A leader in the local and state music teachers’ association, this K-12 school has consistently produced pianists of excellence, as evidenced by 28
Ensemble members performing with Paul Reynolds: Edith Vazquez, Bryon Beesley, Carrie Bean, Brent Beesley.
years of high ratings at musical contests and festivals. Elizabeth began her teaching job in January, working alongside three veteran piano pedagogues. Elizabeth will earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music in April of
String Ensemble Performs On January 21, Mr. Paul Reynolds performed as guest artist with members of the Southeastern College String Ensemble in J. S. Bach’s Keyboard Concerto in D Minor. The concert was hosted by the Bach Festival of Central Florida, and was held at the First Presbyterian Church in Winter Haven, FL. The concert also included pieces by Schubert and Telemann, performed by the String Ensemble. Mr. Reynolds is a member of the board for the Bach Festival. Southeastern String Ensemble: Brent Beesley, Bryon Beesley, Carrie Bean, Lillian Medina, Ruth Parker, Julie Powell, and Edith Vazquez.
2001. She has served as accompanist for instrumentalists, as well as pianist for both the Joy and Jazz Band ensembles. Elizabeth has presented both junior and senior recitals, performing works of Bach, Beethoven, and Ginastera (among others) with the help of her piano professor, Mrs. Michelle Tredway. Her plans are to continue teaching at Lakeland Christian School and to begin making
Southeastern’s The Magic Flute: A Community Effort Southeastern Lyric Theater will end its 2000-2001 season with The Magic Flute. Professional singers and members of the Imperial Symphony Orchestra will be joining the cast and the Southeastern Orchestra for four performances of this classic opera at the restored Polk Theater in Lakeland on April 5th-7th with shows at 7:30 each night and a 2:00 p.m. matinee on April 7th. The Magic Flute, composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, was first performed in 1791. The story is
generally attributed to Cal Ludwig Giesecke who was a member of the chorus at the first performance. This romantic comedy will liberally employ fantasy, which includes the magic flute and a set of magic bells that aid the quest of Prince Tamino and Papageno for the stolen Pamina, the daughter of the Queen of the Night. Pastel lighting and bright colors in flowing costumes will help develop the sense of fantasy on a sparse stage. Director Chery Brendel, who is cast in the role of the Queen of the Night,
application to graduate schools.
www.secollege.edu
continued on page 19
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the arts Southeastern’s Our Town to Wilder’s Original Intentions The Southeastern Theater Department offered Thornton Wilder’s Our Town on February 16th – 17th, 22nd – 24th at 8:00 p.m. in the Bush Chapel with an additional matinee on the 18th at 3:00 p.m. The play follows the blossoming love of George Gibbs and Emily Webb through marriage, childbirth, and death. Director of Theater Robert McManus felt that the two most important themes were “rejoice in life and respect death.” Elements of reality and surreality, humor and sorrow blend with insightful reflection in this classic drama that revolves around Grover’s Corners, New Hampshire. The stage manager’s commentaries offer a dry, witty, often satiric view of New England humor. Staging recreated Wilder’s original intentions: only a table and chairs and a lighting cyclorama, which changed color as the day went from early morning to evening. A large cast ranged in age from 4 to 50 and included actors from the community, students and faculty.
Elements of reality a n d s u r r e a l i t y, h u m o r and sorrow blended with insightful reflection in this classic drama
Southeastern Piano Students Get Unique Experience Some of the piano students within the Southeastern Music Department have had the unique and exciting experience of working directly with a composer in preparation for the performance of his music. Lori May (senior), Elizabeth Harrison (senior), and Stephanie Turbeville (junior) worked to perfect instrumental pieces written for flute, trumpet, and piano by noted and distinguished composer, Dr. Howard Buss. The preparation included a rehearsal session with Dr. Buss on Thursday, March 1. It was a tremendous experience for both the students who were playing, as well as
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THE SOUTHEASTERNER
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for those who were listening, to hear the composer explain his intention for each piece being performed. Dr. Howard Buss has written compositions for instrumental soloists, chamber musicians, symphonies, choruses and bands, all of which have been performed in 31 countries, at contemporary music festivals and on radio and television. The Florida Music Teachers Association, as well as having granted numerous awards and citations for his compositions, has named him “Composer of the Year.” Dr. Buss now resides in Lakeland and makes himself readily available to collegiate artists.
The concert was a marvelous community success, having been performed on March 12th in conjunction with Southeastern College Community Concert Series (Mrs. Chery Brendel, producer). Along with the student performers, faculty members Chery Brendel, Paul Reynolds, Danny Tindall, Chris and Michelle Tredway also took the stage to present various works by Dr. Buss. This experience with the distinguished composer was yet another venue used to create a rich learning atmosphere for the music students at Southeastern College.
www.secollege.edu
the arts
The Magic Flute continued from page 17
describes this production; “The Magic Flute will provide a unique opportunity for our students to perform in a classic opera.” Students will be featured in a cover performance, the matinee. Patty Hudson, cast as the first Spirit, describes her experiences in similar productions: “It gives me a greater appreciation for classical music and the role it plays in theater.” The cast includes the following: Chery Brendel, Director and Queen of the Night Ron Brendel and Edward Bryant, Timeno Mindy Damon and Jaclene Vander Maten, Pamina Vander Maten Gordon Miller and Manuel Garcia, Monostatos For ticket information please call Chery Brendel at (863) 667-5080.
Southeastern’s MISSION STATEMENT Southeastern, a Christ-centered college, fosters student success by integrating personal faith and higher learning.
W i t h i n o u r lov i n g P e nt e c o s t a l c o m mu n i t y, we challenge students to prepare professionally so they can creatively serve their generation in the spirit of Christ.
Coming in March... the 2001 edition of
The Oracle
Southeastern’s Literary Magazine quilt squares scraps,
each stitch,
fragments of fabric,
weaving and connecting,
appear useless when
recalling times past.
detached from each other.
each patch linked together
shreds,
revealing tradition and heritage.
portions of the past,
simple scraps and shreds,
seems almost futile to piece together
once thought insignificant,
these segments.
proving themselves to be priceless.
a swag from grandma’s old tablecloth
preserving glimpses of a family,
a part of daddy’s baby blue blanket,
passing on their victories and heartaches.
and sleeves of sister’s first school dress.
never forgetting,
pieces of cloth,
always reminding.
containing miles of memories,
––not at all useless––
telling infinite bedtime stories.
If you would like to purchase a copy of the 2001 edition, send $5.00, with your shipping address to: www.secollege.edu
––Charlene Fountain
The Oracle Box 1026 • Southeastern College 1000 Longfellow Blvd. • Lakeland, FL 33801 Steve Gregg, Faculty Sponsor (863) 667-5116 THE SOUTHEASTERNER
SPRING 2001
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spor ts Mike Jackson a Changed Man ne of the best things about coming to Southeastern is hearing the testimonies of the students here on campus. Stories of lives without promise that changed because of a walk with the Lord. This is the story of Mike Jackson, a 26 year-old student and basketball player here at Southeastern. He has come a long way from a life that was filled with I felt like a alcohol and substance abuse. changed man Southeasterner: Mike, tell me about yourself and your troubled past. and I knew once Mike: “Well, I grew up in Brooklyn I left there I and I started hanging out with the wouldn’t go back wrong crowd at an early age. I had a real anger problem that got me in to my old ways. trouble. I didn’t care about much so it didn’t take long for me to get involved with drugs and alcohol. I was even selling drugs and getting into trouble with the law. My biggest downfall was my problem with drugs. I became dependent on them and I couldn’t straighten out my life.” Southeasterner: Did you want help or did you not care about changing? Mike: “Yes, I tried to get help. I tried rehab centers and no matter what I tried, it didn’t help. Every time I left the rehab center I would go right back to using again.” Southeasterner: How did you eventually get help? Mike: “My mother told me about a program called Teen Challenge. I then attended a Teen Challenge program in Sanford, Florida. They taught me discipline and I learned about Jesus Christ. I felt like a changed man and I knew once I left there I wouldn’t go back to my old ways.” Southeasterner: How did you learn about Southeastern College? Mike: “A former Southeastern graduate worked with me in Teen Challenge. He told me about the school. I saw the way he was and I wanted to be like him spiritually.” Southeasterner: Now you’re on the basketball team and you’re starting a new life for yourself. Tell me what this means to you.
O
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Mike: “Well, I would just like to thank God for giving me this opportunity. I’m playing basketball again, even after hurting my knee earlier in the season. I can get an education here and still play ball. I owe everything to God and I’m so grateful to him.” Head coach Ed Plastow has nothing but good things to say about Mike. Southeasterner: What does Mike bring to your team? Coach Plastow: “He is a good leader, for only being a freshman. He has leadership qualities and he should be a good leader for our team in the years to come.” Southeasterner: What about Mike as a person? Coach Plastow: “Mike is a special young man. Through his Teen Challenge experience, he wants to make a difference in people’s lives. He is striving to find out what Christ wants with his life.” Mike Jackson’s testimony is a good one for everyone at Southeastern, and through his interview I have gotten to know him. He is a good witness on and off of the basketball court. Coach Plastow and the Crusaders are looking forward to having him on the hardwood for the next three years.
www.secollege.edu
spor ts
Thurber Set To Break Record Andy Thurber, a 5’10” guard from Glendale, AZ is on the verge of establishing a new Southeastern College scoring record for men’s basketball. With 9 regular season games remaining, as well as the post-season tournaments, Andy needs less than 30 points to break Tony Watson’s all-time career scoring record of 1,835 points set in three seasons of play from 1981 to 1984. Andy will be honored prior to the February 2 homecoming game against Atlanta Christian for this outstanding accomplishment.
A four-year starter, Andy has averaged over 16 points per game for his career, and has set or tied several other records. Additional records include most free throws made in a game (13), 3-point accuracy for a season (45.3%), most 3-pointers made in a game (7), most 3-pointers in a season (85), and most 3-pointers made in a career (228 and counting). Look for an update on this great achievement in the next edition of The Southeasterner.
Volleyball & Soccer Teams Complete Seasons The women’s volleyball team finished the 2000 season with 7 wins against 27 losses. Having probably the youngest team in Southeastern’s volleyball history with 5 freshman and 5 sophomores on an 11 member team, Coach Charlotte Snowden’s team gained valuable experience with a very competitive schedule. Individual honors went to Patricia Chidester, a sophomore from Key West, Florida, who was named to the NCCAA South Region Second Team. Chrissy Olsen, another sophomore from Cape Coral, Florida earned First Team All-South Region. Southeastern’s men’s soccer team completed their season this past fall with a record of 6 wins, 9 losses, and 1 tie. First year coach Paul Amaral’s squad had a good mixture of quality senior leadership along with a talented group of incoming freshmen and
2001 Baseball Schedule Head Coach: Scott Laing Assistant Coach: Matt Wagner Statistician: Jonathan Taylor *All home games played at Henley Fields *All games are 7 innings and (2) indicates a doubleheader.
www.secollege.edu
returning sophomores. Sophomore forward Sam Lopez, from Hazelton, PA, led the team in scoring with 23 goals for the season. That earned him both the respect of opposing teams, which shadow him constantly throughout each game, and the respect of the region coaches, who named him First Team All-South Region. Also earning first team honors was Alex Velez, a senior defender from Spring Hill, FL. Battling through several injuries throughout the season, Alex still showed he was one of the best defensive players in the nation in NCCAA Division II soccer. Solid leadership came in the form of co-captains Steve Coad, a senior goalkeeper from San Diego, CA and Brian Garvin, a senior mid-fielder from Greenville, SC. Both players had outstanding seasons and were named to the NCCAA All-South Region Second Team.
Date March 8 9 10 13 16 17 22 23 30 31 April 5-7 10 19-21
Opponent Th F S T F S Th F F S Th-S T Th-S
Atlanta Christian (2) Atlanta Christian Toccoa Falls Toccoa Falls (2) Atlanta Christian (2) Atlanta Christian Crown(MN) (2) Crown(MN) Toccoa Falls (2) Johnson Bible (2) NCCAA South Region Tournament Clearwater Christian (2) NCCAA National Inv. Tournament
Women’s Basketball On The Rebound The women’s basketball program, under the direction of Coach Charlotte Snowden, is rapidly changing direction from recent years. With 6 regular season games and the NCCAA South Region Tournament yet to be played, the Lady Crusaders have 7 wins under their belt. This is the highest number of wins since the 1996-97 season when they won 9 games. The record for most wins in a season for women’s basketball occurred during the 1992-93 season when they had 18 wins against 10 losses. The team has exhibited a balance scoring attack with Natalie West, a freshman from Zephyrhills, Florida, leading the way with 13.4 points per game. Suzy Taylor, a transfer student from Englewood, Florida, is scoring at a 12.8 points per game pace. Lakeland native Regina Nolting, who joined the team during the semester break, is scoring 11.8 and is leading the team in rebound average with 10.4. Sharla Plastow, another transfer from Mitchell, South Dakota, rounds out the double figures, scoring 10.4 points per game. The team has shown steady improvement as the season has progressed. Although a very young and inexperienced team, the Southeastern Lady Crusaders are looking to challenge Clearwater Christian College for the NCCAA South Region championship banner. With or without the banner, the future of women’s basketball is looking brighter. Site Home Home Home Home Atlanta, GA Atlanta, GA Home Home Toccoa Falls, GA Toccoa Falls, GA Home Home Clearwater THE SOUTHEASTERNER
Time 10:00 am 10:00 am 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 4:00 pm 12:00 pm 1:00/7:00 pm 7:00 pm 4:00 pm 11:00 am TBA 1:00 pm TBA SPRING 2001
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class notes Who, What & Where!
Mississippi with husband Jeff. She works as a teacher for Jackson County Schools.
Thanks for sending in your latest news!
1970
1939 Sadie Lach works as a sunday school teacher and is retired. She resides in Birmingham, Alabama.
1950 Henry Wright is currently retired from the ministry and living in Greenville, South Carolina, with his wife Anne Wright.
John French worked as a controller for a food distributor for 25 years in Washington, D.C. He also pastored churches in Maryland and Virginia from 1960-1974. He is now retired and resides in Clifton, Virginia, with wife Margaret. Don and Janice (Ward) Taylor recently retired from 40 years of pastoral ministry in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. They now live in Columbia, South Carolina, and are enjoying their first grandchild.
1960 Billy Bush resides in Pensacola, Florida with his wife Jeanie Bush and two children, Karen and Donna. He is currently retired as Lieutenant Commander for the U.S. Coast Guard.
1961 Cathy (Conine) Crossland married Joseph Crossland and they currently reside in Manachaca, Texas. They have two children, Steven Ray and Michael Scott.
1967 James and Patricia Pickens. James is active as president for the Trinity Evangelical Seminary of Florida. They have four children: Keri, Kelli, James II and Adam. James and Patricia currently reside in Hudson, Florida.
1969 Frances Friis resides in Gulfport,
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Frances Hill works as a Residential Life Coordinator for the NC School for the Deaf. She resides in Morganton, North Carolina.
1971
1959
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Leroy Barrow currently resides in Edenton, North Carolina where he works as a Maintenance Mechanic for Merchants Millpond State Park. He is married to Patsy Barrow and they have five children: Kimberly, Tim, Tiffany, Barry, and Alex.
SPRING 2001
James Reece is currently pastor for Luverne United Methodist where he resides in Luverne, Alabama with wife Mary. He is a member of the Alabama-West Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church and serves as Chaplain for Alabama Army National Guard. Jim Black is currently living in North Augusta, South Carolina. Betty (Mullins) Franklin is currently employed by the Defense of Acquisition University as a Professor of Acquisition Logistics. She resides in Culpeper, Virginia, with husband Rex R. Monroe and daughter Tifney.
1972 Lawson (Mike) Booth III recently moved from Columbus, Georgia to Waxahachie, Texas, to take a teaching position as Associate Professor at the Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU). He is currently working on his MBA from Jones International University via the Internet. His wife Shirley (Lloyd) Booth is currently teaching fifth grade in the Waxahachie Independent School District and working on a Master’s in Education in the SAGU Graduate Program. Lawson and Shirley have three children: Leighanne, Brad, and Don, all of whom are currently students at SAGU.
1974 Patricia (Joyner) Wharton is working at the Hillsborough Education Foundation as a Mentor Coordinator. She resides in
Tampa with her husband Dale Wharton and two children, Kevin and Tiffany. Julie Mento resides in Lakeland, Florida, where she works as a teacher for the Polk County School Board. Daniel Astuto is currently residing in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. He serves as senior pastor for Calvary Assembly of God in Pennsauken, New Jersey. He and wife Evelyn Astuto have three children: Dan Jr., Brian, and Lisa. Gerald “JR” Meadows is currently working as pastor for Faith Assembly of God in Hudson, Michigan where he resides. He is married to Debbie Bailey and has two children, Gerald III (Trey) and Rachel Ann.
1975 Robert Harden graduating at age 30 as a nontraditional student, he has earned a doctorate and is currently the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies. He is employed by Southwestern Assemblies of God University in Waxahachie, Texas. He is married to Elizabeth Kane Harden and has since had three children: Robert, Chere Blair, and Patrick. Eddie Sullivan has twenty-five years of ministry under his belt and he is currently employed by the Assemblies of God, DHM Missionaries, where he serves as a mentor to Indian pastors. He lives in Prescott, Arizona, with wife Janice Sullivan. They have three children: Edward, Colleen, and Janel. Terry Holt works as an Accounts Payable Manager for the City of Cairo. He resides in Cairo, Georgia with wife Carol Ann (Trawick) Holt with their son Tyler. Edna (Wooten) Unger resides in Pepperell, Massachussetts with husband William Unger. She works as an elementary school teacher in Lowell, Massachusetts. They have two children, Crystal and Phillip. D. Michael Amico after 25 years in the evangelistic field, he is now planting and pastoring the Ohio Valley Christian Center of the Assemblies of God in Wheeling, West Virginia, where he now resides.
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class notes Danny Hayes and wife Tammy Hayes reside in Gulfport, Michigan with three sons: Jeremy Aaron, Brandon Lee, and Timothy Ryan.
1976 Anita Hamilton is currently living in Lakeland, Florida. David Cameron retired from the USAF, and resides in Moatsville, West Virginia. He and wife Donna Jo Cameron have three sons: Daniel, Dwayne, and Dennis. Debby (Pridgen) Creel is working for the Orange County Public Schools as an ESOL Resource Teacher. She resides in Orlando, Florida. She has two children, Josh and Jessica.
1977 Bryan Harrison is currently employed by the State of Florida where he is a Senior Juvenile Probation Officer. He lives in Bushnell, Florida with wife Janis Harrison and four children: Elizabeth, Carley, and twins Rebecca and Julie. Alicia (Ray) Spruijt resides in New York, New York with husband Hans Spruijt. They have three children: Reinier, Nicole, and Monique. David Bundrick currently works as Vice President of Student Development for Evangel University. David is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Missouri. His wife Maria (Reed) Bundrick is a fourth grade teacher at Willard North Elementary. They have three children: Melinda, Jeffrey, and Jonathan. Ann (Rightmire) Ramsey currently resides in Palatka, Florida, with husband Michael Ramsey and daughters Shelley and Carrie. She is employed as a Teacher for the Putman County School Board. Sieg Krueger is married to Judi Krueger, and is currently active as pastor for Mount View Christian Assembly. They have two children, Ken and Angela. The family resides in Draper, Utah.
1978 Robert Lubbers lives in Altamonte Springs, Florida, with wife Lucy Calderon Lubbers. He is employed by Lockheed www.secollege.edu
Martin and works as a Senior Network Architect. He and his wife have two children, Sebastian and Rosa Irene. Sharon Chapman-Jones works as Music Director, Women’s Ministry Coordinator, and College and Careers Teacher at the First Assembly of God in Ionia, Michigan, where she resides. She is married to James Jones and they have two children, Melissa and Casey. Rebekah Brown currently works as a Medical Transcriptionist for Sentara Medical Group. She resides in Chesapeake, Virginia. Debbie (Reich) Trivett resides in Tomball, Texas with husband Robert Trivett and two children, Joanne and Laura.
1979 Keith Jones is currently pastor of the Gulf Coast Assembly of God Church in North Port, Florida. He was recently married to LaDonna Jones on April 6, 2000. They have two children, Jessica and Kimberly. Glen Karnes resides in Lakeland, Florida, and is a self-employed Insurance Agent. He is married to Linda Karnes and they have two children, Glen and Lori. Cynthia (Copeland) Hartline is working as a kindergarten teacher for Carolina Kids Child Development Center. She and husband John Hartline reside in Rockhill, South Carolina, with the newest addition to the family, David John (DJ), born May 5, 1999. Kathy (Kooken) Rotruck works as a Middle School Gifted Support Teacher for the Huntingdon Area School District. She has three children: Anna, Shelley, and Joshua.
1980 Jan (Cruce) DeKlavon has been teaching elementary many years in the public school systems. Currently she is working at George Rogers Clark Elementary School as a Special Ed Assistant. Her husband David DeKlavon earned his PhD in May of 1998 and works as the Associate Dean and Associate Professor of New Testament at Southern’s Boyce College. They have resided in New Albany, Indiana since 1994. Sam Gifford employed by MGS Corporation,
resides in Cinnaminson, New Jersey. He is married to Joanna and they have a daughter named Tina. Robert Cooper is working as the Director of Residence Life at the Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. He resides in Columbia, Pennsylvania with wife Sharon Cooper and two sons, Matthew and Christopher. Donna (Gordon) Collins resides in Staunton, Virginia, with husband Jesses Collins. Carmella Seymour is currently residing in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. Pamela (Frost) Freed currently resides in Hoschton, Georgia with husband Ron and daughters, Sarah and Rebekah. Pamela works as a fifth grade teacher for Walnut Grove Elementary in Gwinnett County, Georgia.
1981 Curtis Monk is working as a Project Coordinator for Short & Associates, Inc. He resides in Defiance, Ohio, with wife Rhonda Monk and two children, Jonathan and Courtney. David Thrasher lives in Fayetteville, Georgia. He is a National Sales Manager for Smithfield Foods. Ted Seres resides in Cambridge, Ontario with wife Susan and sons Trenton and Brett. He works as National Coordinator of Specialized Ministries for the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada. Phillis Kay Harris works as a Ticketer for Usairways.com employed by TRX. She resides in Pace, Florida, and has three children: Patrick Kamm, Michelle Kamm, and Christian Dean. Robert Gamel serves as assistant pastor for Special Metals. He and wife Sharon Gamel have three children: Joshua, Joy, and Jessica. The family resides in Elkhart, Indiana.
1982 Isaiah R. Alatorre works as an Administrative Clerk for Donnelley Logistic Services. He lives in Oak Forest, Illinois and is married to Laura Lynn THE SOUTHEASTERNER
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class notes Alatorre. They have four children: Victoria, Isaiah, Alexandria, and Jessica. Susan (Andrews) Kemmerly currently lives in Alabaster, Alabama. She is married to Kenneth Kemmerly and has two children, Haleigh and Andrew. Timothy Martin works as a teacher/ coach for the Wilmington City Schools. He resides in Wilmington, Ohio, with wife Tonya and their three children: Landon, Jordan, and Justin. Mark King is currently residing in Huron, South Dakota with wife Carol (Prevatt) King. They have four children: Alex, Lauren, Eric, and Shannon.
1983 David Wooten is currently the senior pastor for New Life Assembly of God in Westover, Alabama. He and his wife Debbie Wooten have four children: Jinger, Matt, Mykel, and Miles. The family resides in Wilsonville, Alabama.
1984 Diane (Woodbury) Whitmore is married to Steve Whitmore and is currently working in the front office for a doctor. They live in Lehigh Acres, Florida, and have two children, Joshua and Joel. They presently attend New Life Assembly in Lehigh Acres. Larry Parks is working in the ministry as a pastor. He resides in Orlando, Florida, and is married to Delories Parks. They have two children, David and Ashton. Ed Jernigan currently resides in West Palm Beach, Florida. George Mraz works as an Exceptional Education Teacher for the Martin County School Board. He resides in Port St. Lucie, Florida with wife Esther “Lily” Mraz and two children, Alexandra and Angelina. Beth (Basham) Furrow and husband Frank Furrow currently reside in Roanoke, Virginia, with three children: Sarah, Andy, and Kevin. Beth is currently working as a teacher. Jim Mann resides in New Port Richey, Florida, with wife Tracy and their son Michael. Jim works as a Children’s Pastor 24
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and Worship Leader for the First Assembly of God of New Port Richey.
1985 Steve Whitmore currently works as a Hardware Department Manager at Wal-Mart. He resides in Lehigh Acres, Florida, and is married to Diane (Woodbury) Whitmore. They have two children, Joshua and Joel.
Noelle. Don works as a Reading Recovery Teacher for Downtown Elementary Magnet Academy. The family resides in Columbus, Georgia. Donna (Pratt) Ridge and husband Darin Ridge have three children: Ashton Tyler, Evan Patrick, and Averi Anna. The family resides in Lakeland, Florida.
Cassandra (Cassie) Knight is working as both a Secretary for Calhoun Pump Sales and a home-schooling teacher. She resides in Calhoun, Georgia. She is married to Larry Knight and has two children, Ethan and Tanner. James Tracey currently resides in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with wife Kathy. Jay Stewart serves as senior pastor of Saraland First Assembly in Saraland, Alabama. He is married to Melanie and they have three children: Haley, Clay, and Cole. Jay is Co-Author of “University Life,” a daily devotional written for college-aged students from a Pentecostal perspective. Tim McGregor has been working as a Senior Pastor for 7 years for The Lighthouse of Hope A/G. He just completed a new Worship Center. He is married to Trina McGregor and they have two children, Devin and Savannah. The family resides in Cumberland, Maryland. Wayne David Barkley and wife Cheri reside in Tabor City, North Carolina. David is currently working as a Band Director for Columbus County Schools. Kelly Lacy is active President of DanAbby, Inc. He resides in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, with wife Lisa and daughters, Danielle and Abigail.
1986 Kimberly (Schwarz) Orr resides in Columbus, Georgia, where she works as a Licensed Professional Counselor for ALTAR to ALTAR Counseling Ministries. She’s married to Don Orr, and they have a daughter named Lydia Noelle. Dennis Young works as an ACT Worker for Livingston County. He resides in Fenton, Michigan, with one child, Madison. Don (Theo) Orr is married to Kimberly Orr and they have one daughter, Lydia
Deon and Carmen Lett (1988) are currently residing in Tampa, Florida. Deon has been serving as senior pastor at Northside Assembly of God in Tampa for the last five years. They have two children, Austin Jeremiah, born April 17, 2000, and Lauren Ashleigh born February 11, 1989.
1987 Jeffery Jordan is currently working as a Machinist for General Electric, and is married to Bobbi Jordan. They have four children: Joshua, Christopher, Buck, and Brittany. The family resides in Wilmington, North Carolina. Edward (Jim) Hicks resides in Lakewood, New Jersey, where he works as Community Manager for Prime Management, Inc. Lisa J. Hale is a business owner in Bluefield, Virginia. George Jones resides in Oviedo, Florida, and is working for the U.S. Postal Service. Marisol Hernandez-Carcela is newly married (12/29/00) to Dr. Genaro Carcela and they reside in Seville, Spain. She is currently enrolled in a PhD program at Florida State University via the Internet.
1988 Debra (Sayre) Garrison is married to W. Clayton Garrison. They have three children: Christopher, Lyndi, and Michael. Residing in Hastings, Michigan, she is an avid homemaker for the family. www.secollege.edu
class notes Julia Prince is working as a Receiving Manager for Piggly Wiggly and she resides in Bolivar, Tennessee. Rob Pascale is working as a fourth grade teacher for the Chesapeake Public Schools in Chesapeake, Virginia. He is married to Rachel Pascale and they have two children, Nicole and Abby. He is also currently working on his EdD at the University of Virginia. Eric P. Dorman resides in Sterling Heights, Michigan, with wife Susanna and daughter Tabitha. Melanie (Baker) Zecher resides in Shelby, North Carolina, with husband Alan Zecher and two children, Amanda and Benjamin. She is a homemaker for the family. Jon Caton works as a Vernacular Media Specialist. He is married to wife Kim (McDaniel) Caton and they have two children, Jonathan and Daniel. In 1991, Jon and Kim were appointed by the Assemblies of God Division of Foreign Missions to serve with Wycliffe Bible Translators. They are currently based at JAARS in Waxhaw, North Carolina where they reside. Gary Brewster is currently pastoring Church on the Rock in Strongville, Ohio. He is married to Yolanda Brewster and they have a son named Garrett. Steve Odum resides in Stephens City, Virginia, and is working as a student and teacher. His wife is Mary Odum and they have one daughter, Jessica.
Jennifer (Jones) Hayes currently resides in Springfield, Missouri. Jennifer works as an Administrative Assistant for the Academic Affairs Office at Global University. She is married to husband Scott Hayes and they have one child, Aaron. They are part of a team of people that are currently serving the Lord in over 180 countries! She also works with schools all over the world and husband Scott is involved in the distribution of educational/evangelistic materials all over the world. Jacquee (Tuite) Wilson works as a Decorator for Fenton Art Glass. She resides in Williamstown, West Virginia, with three sons: Gabriel, Matthew, and Zachery. Amber (Emerich) Dennis residing in Fish’s Eddy, New York, and she works as a kindergarten teacher for Hancock Elementary School. She was married to Raymond Dennis in July of 1991. Michael and Victoria (LaTorre) Kress currently reside in Ormond Beach, Florida, and have a daughter named Mia. Michael is employed by the Act Corporation where he works as a Case Manager Counselor and Victoria is a homemaker for the family. David Mayne is currently working as Assistant Vice President for First Financial. He and wife Suzette Mayne have three children: David, Jessica, and Joseph. The family resides in Adrian, Michigan.
Christopher and Vonnie Auld (1986) have done youth ministry for the past fifteen years. They reside in Dunn, North Carolina, with son Seth Christopher. Vonnie is an elementary school teacher for the North Carolina Public Schools. Christopher works as Youth/Associate Pastor for Glad Tidings Church.
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1990 Kimberly (Gschiel) Bakos works as a Customer Service Representative for Whirlpool and Kitchenaid. She resides in Stevensville, Michigan, with husband Joe Bakos and son Michael. Melissa (Schaedler) Clark is working as a first grade teacher in the Pinellas County School System. She is married to Kerry Clark and they reside in Largo, Florida, with one daughter Hayley. William Beasley is currently active as a Non-Destructive Testing and QA Supervisor for the U.S. Navy. He and wife Darlene Beasley reside in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, with two sons, Michael and Brent, and daughter Violet. Gordon Albury serves as the associate pastor for Family Worship Center in Littleton, Colorado. He and wife Michelle Albury have two children, Austin and Aaron. The family resides in Highlands Ranch, Colorado. Mark and Amy (Kinlaw) Renfroe met and married while attending SEC. Upon graduation, they served with the Division of Home Missions in San Francisco among the Arabs living in the area. In 1995, they received appointment for the Division of Foreign Missions and are currently serving God in the middle-eastern country of Jordan. They have one girl and three boys: Noor, Hebeeb, Nabil, and Emad. Ernie Wheaton, Jr., is currently residing in Ormond Beach, Florida. He is the President/Owner of W.W. Truss Co., Inc. He and wife Kelly Wheaton have three children: Ernie, Lucas, and Savannah.
1989 Chad McGinnis is the youth pastor for the First Assembly of God in Palatka. He is married to Rhonda McGinnis and they have three children: Kenzie, Korey, and newest addition Kasey. The family currently resides in Palatka, Florida.
Foreman for Nissan. At age one, Kolby Renee is the newest addition to the family.
Kyle (Sammons) McKinney currently resides in Lehigh Acres, Florida. She has been a second grade teacher at Fort Myers Christian School for ten years. Her husband Dave McKinney is a Service Shop
1991 David Scruggs, Jr. is currently a youth pastor residing in Gastonia, North Carolina with wife Michelle (Cotton) Scruggs.
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class notes Florida with wife Kristy. Joseph Dunbar resides in Winter Haven, Florida, with wife Trina and their two children, Jennifer and Michael. Shelley (Pinder) VandenBerg married Andy VandenBerg and has currently left teaching to become a homemaker. Congratulations! on the newest addition to the family, Madison, born January 12, 1999.
Kimberly (Keith) Chudko is currently residing on Eielson AFB in Alaska. Julie Merryman works as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor for Cumberland Heights Treatment Center. She currently resides in Gallatin, Tennessee.
Sherman Stanley currently resides in Jacksonville, Florida where he works as a Manufactures Sales Representative in North Florida for Marvin Bochner, Inc. He is married to Kimberly (Simonic) Stanley and they have two children: Cassie and Caleb.
John Cookman is CEO for his selfemployed business. He resides in Knightdale, North Carolina, with wife Amy Cookman. John Hensel is currently residing in Winter Haven, Florida with wife Fran Hensel. Employed with the First Assembly of God, John is currently serving as President for the Lake Alfred Ministerial Association, Sectional Men’s Representative, and the District Men’s Secretary. David Ingram resides in Lake City, South Carolina. He is senior pastor for Lake City Pentecostal Holiness. He and wife Kathy have one son, Jordan Davey, and one on the way.
1992 Ben Thatcher currently works as a Webmaster/Systems Administrator at Abundant Life Christian Center. He resides in Margate, Florida. Thelma (Metcalf) Strobl is a housewife living in New York with husband Michael Strobl. After working as a Foster Care Counselor, she went on to receive her Masters of Social Work in August 1999. Edwin Frost is currently working as the Director of Education at Northside Assembly of God. He resides in Lutz, 26
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1993 Rick Sosbe is currently residing in Lakeland, Florida. Michelle (Hawkins) Watson is currently residing in Simpsonville, North Carolina, less than thirty miles from where she worked as Hearts of Fire camp counselor for two years. She is married to Jeffery C. Watson and they have one little boy named Nickolas and are expecting another child May 2001.
Suzanne (Hill) Wiebe resides in Wichita, Kanasas with her two children, Kyle and Kevin.
Steve Lee is currently serving as pastor for the Kokomo Assemblies of God Korean Church. He is married to Myong J. Lee and they have two children, ages 17 and 15. The family resides in Kokomo, Indiana.
Derrick Holland is active as pastor for Elk Creek Baptist Church in Ferguson, North Carolina. He and wife Shawnasi reside in Granite Falls, North Carolina, with their two sons, Dillion and Tyler.
Michael and Sonya (Willett) Rivera (1990) Michael has recently completed 2 years as pastor for Holly Heights Assembly of God in Holly Hill, Florida, where they reside. They have two sons, Isaiah (1997), and newest addition Isaac (2000). Congratulations! John Barba is currently residing in El Paso, Texas, and is employed with Metro Fellowship Church.
Jennifer (Jarvis) Frazer resides in LeVergne, Tennessee, with husband Brent Frazer. They have one child, Brent Edward Frazer II. Jennifer currently works as a homemaker for the family. Joseph Cuoco is working as Assistant Director at V.K. Arrigoni Inc. and as youth pastor at Frontline Church and Outreach Center. Tammy McDaniel works as District Youth Department Secretary for the Pen Florida A/G District Office. She resides in Lakeland, Florida.
Glenn and Laura Lee have recently moved to plant a new church in Raleigh, North Carolina. Church Alive is where Glenn will serve as the senior pastor. They reside in Apex, North Carolina, with their two sons, Thomas (age 5) and Zeke (age 2). Melissa Hill resides in Frankfort, Kentucky, where she works as an Information Coordinator for the Kentucky Teachers’ Retirement. Kristi (Gladstone) and Timothy Connally (1990): Kristi teaches Secondary Mathematics at Ft. Lauderdale Christian School. This is her eighth year as a middle and high school teacher. Timothy is currently a fourth grade teacher also at Ft. Lauderdale Christian School. Kristi and Timothy just celebrated their tenth anniversary in December. They have three children: Tyler, Libby, and Max, born October 2000. Congratulations!
Steve and Jolene Udrisky are currently residing in Oklahoma with their daughter Tori. They recently welcomed the newest addition to the family, Ethan Lee Udrisky. Ethan was born February 5, 2001 at 10:49 a.m., weighing 9 lbs. 5oz. Congratulations! Audra (Pates) Daniel and Dave Daniel (‘91): Audra completed her teaching degree and now works as a substitute teacher. Audra and Dave became new parents in 1988-1989 when they adopted two wonderful little boys, www.secollege.edu
class notes Malachi and Micah. They have recently applied for missionary appointment to Germany. The family currently resides in Adrian, Michigan.
of Children and Family. He and wife Lisa (McMillian) Gray reside in Medina, Ohio, with two daughters, Sarah and Rebecca. Jeff and Shelly (‘96) Foldesi: Jeff is currently serving as youth pastor at New Generation. Shelly works as a sixth grade Language Arts teacher. They currently have two daughters, Malina and Madison, and are expecting their third child in August. The family resides in Lynchburg, Virginia.
Janeen (Bixby) Raaen currently resides in Richfield, Minnesota, with husband Todd Raaen and their daughter Marisa. Janeen works as an avid homemaker for the family. John Gill is married to wife Lisa (Baker) Gill and they have one son, Jonathan. John works as a Terminal Manager for CTL Distribution. The family resides in Mobile, Alabama. Monica Moore has recently made the move from Alabama to North Carolina where she currently resides in the city of Cary. She is currently working with Glenn and Laura Lee at their church in Apex, North Carolina. While working on her Masters in Counseling, she is also employed as a Family Therapist and Clinical Assistant for Family and Youth, Inc., in Wake County, North Carolina. Amy (Allen) Valimont is married to husband Raymond Valimont and they reside in Louisville, Kentucky. She works as a Therapeutic Foster Care Program Supervisor for Childplace.
Mark Canfield with wife Lori Canfield and their four children: Jonathan, Jesyn, Josalyn, and Jacob. Steve and Michelle (Williams) Finch currently reside in Owenton, Kentucky. Steve is currently serving as pastor for Beechwood Assembly of God. They have two children, Asher and Macey, and one on the way. Denita Hamilton currently resides in Concord, North Carolina. She is a sixth grade Social Studies teacher and is also attending UNCC graduate school to receive a Masters in ESL.
1994 Karina (McConoughey) Gilbert currently lives in Goose Creek, South Carolina, where she is a homemaker. She is married to Mark Gilbert,and they have two children, Andrew and Elizabeth. Richard David Long is presently a student at Reformed Theological Seminary. He and wife Teresa live in Orlando, Florida, with two children, Katie and Jonathon.
Greg and Tabetha Slemp currently reside in Valrico, Florida with son David Gregory Slemp, born December 31, 1999. Greg is employed with Shook, Hardy, and Bacon L.L.P., Attorney. Greg went on and earned his JD from the University of North Carolina School of Law in May of 1999. Tonia (Covey) Renner currently resides in Canal Winchester, Ohio, with husband Ivan Renner. Tonia works as a first grade teacher and is currently working on her Masters in Reading at Ohio State University. Ivan works as a Trauma Nurse on the ICU floor of a local hospital. www.secollege.edu
Karen (Pugh) Veigel resides in Springfield, Virginia, with husband W. John Veigel and daughter Karena Rose, born July 3, 1999. Thomas Conner has made a 22-year dream come true! He has finished his MDiv and has been selected as a Chaplain for the US Army. He resides in Lexington, South Carolina, with wife Donna. They have two children, Tom and Vivian. Cheri Stanley is working as a Case Manager for Stanley Ministries. She resides in Jacksonville, Florida. Scott Gray is actively working as a Social Worker for Cuyahoga County Department
Erin (Riley) Brown works as a teacher for Sheridan Elementary School in Sheridan, Arizona, where she resides with husband Brian Brown.
1995 Nanette (Thompson) Howell works as an Ophthalmology Technician for Ocala Eye Surgeons. She is married to Todd Howell, and they have three children: Ashton Schuyle, Zoe Kathryn, and Caden Michael, the newest addition, born August 9, 2000. Jeremy and Melody (Clendening) Steffens (‘97) reside in Layfayette, Indiana, where they serve as youth pastors for an Assemblies of God Church. Joshua Swodeck resides in Whittier, California, where he works as Director of Media for the American International Media, Inc. Todd Brown resides in Charlotte, North Carolina, with wife Laura (Somosky) Brown. He works as a Customer Service Representative for Preferred Power, Inc. Anthony Beasley serves as a Juvenile Court Counselor for the State of North Carolina. He and wife Amy Beasley reside in Coats, North Carolina, with their three children: Katie, Cody, and Callie. Mable (Joseph) Gracen is working as a Math Lab teacher for Copley High School. She resides in Massillon, Ohio, with husband Gracen Matthew. Andrea West is currently residing in Lake Wales, Florida. She works as a Clinical Coordinator for Psycare Mental Health Services. LaDonna (Waters) Andreu resides in Fort Pierce, Florida, with husband Chris Andreu. She works as a kindergarten teacher for the St. Lucie School District. THE SOUTHEASTERNER
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class notes Michael Pinkerton is currently working as a Video Engineer and resides in Lakeland, Florida. He and wife Judith (Matson) Pinkerton have four children: Rachel, Gregory, Sarah, and William.
and is married to Shenoha M. Ellis. They have two children, Sebastien and Aveon.
Russell Smith serves as children’s pastor and Christian Education Director for Saraland First Assembly of God. He and wife Misty Smith reside in Chickasaw, Alabama. Marla (Benitez) Grajales is currently working as an Accountant for Sigma Systems. She resides in Worchester, Maine, with husband Joseph Grajales and one child.
Eric Lewis is married to Kimberly Lewis and they reside in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. He works as youth pastor for Stevens Point First Assembly of God.
1996
Darrell and Moriah (Aho) Martin Darrell is currently serving as the associate pastor for Radiant Life Assembly of God. He and wife Moriah reside in Gaffeny, South Carolina, with their newest addition to the family, Noah, born August 2, 2000. Congratulations! Chad Payne recently celebrated his oneyear anniversary as senior pastor of New Life Assembly of God in Woodstock, Alabama, where he resides. He is also working on an MA degree with the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary in the Distance Education Program.
Randy Jakab currently resides in St. Petersburg, Florida, with wife Sharon Jakab and son Evan Randall, born August 8, 2000. Randy currently works as the Minister of Music for Pinellas Community Church.
Melody Bradley is in her fourth year of teaching kindergarten for the Lake County School Board. She resides in Tavares, Florida.
Matthew McClelland managing the family business, Macs Meat Market, he resides in Lakeland, Florida.
Tanja Hinterstoisser is currently residing in Denver, Colorado. She works as a Counselor for the University Counseling and Behavioral Health, Iliff.
Leo Dodd serves as Assistant Pastor/ Preschool Chaplain for Living Hope Worship Center. He resides in Carneys Point, New Jersey, with wife Jeannie and their two children, Justin and Tyler.
David Thrower is residing in St. Petersburg, Florida, with wife Barbara. He works for Hirechede, Inc. and is active as Lay Eucharistic Minister for St. Jude Cathedral in St. Petersburg.
Carole (Luczka) Keene and husband Phil Keene work as associate pastors at New Beginnings Family Life Center A/G in Bedford, Ohio, where they reside. They have two children, Jordan and Jared.
Doug and Catherine Dierdorf currently reside in Wheaton, Illinois.
1997
Daniel Martin is currently working as a Video Director, employed by Mavri, Inc. He is married to Candace Martin and they reside in Grandville, Michigan, with their two children, Dylan and Devin. Christine (Sandel) McElwee resides in Lakeland, Florida. Christine and husband Mark just welcomed a new addition to the family – Lauren, born October 19, 1999.
David (1996) and April (Grosshans) Wilson currently reside in Brandon, Florida. April is currently working as a Producer for News Channel 8 in Tampa, Florida. David is a fifth grade Math teacher at North Lakeland Elementary School.
June McCrory currently resides in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she works as a Webmaster/IT Specialist for Cross Movement. Robert Duvernois is employed as a Retail Associate for Publix. He resides in New Port Richey, Florida and is married to Nancy Duvernois. They have two children, Brianna and Jazzmynne. Paul Ellis resides in Clearwater, Florida, 28
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Pete Garbacki with wife Loiana Menezes Teixera on their wedding day. Shannon Jelynn (Sauls) Horne works for Muskogee County Schools as a second grade teacher. She resides in Opelika, Alabama with husband Jody Horne.
Dustin Biel is a graduate student at Fuller Theological Seminary, School of Psychology. He resides in San Marino, California. Roger Coleman resides in Bloomington, Indiana, with wife Sharon. He works as Youth Pastor for the Ellettesville First Assembly of God. www.secollege.edu
class notes reside in Lakeland, Florida, with their two Westie puppies. Yomaira (Perez) Rodriguez works as a sixth grade Geography teacher for Narcoosee Community School in Osceola County. She resides in Orlando, Florida, with husband Ulises Rodriguez.
James and Jennifer (Hunt) Bolds (‘95) currently reside in South Hamilton, Massachusetts. They are both graduate students at Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary where they are expecting to graduate in 2003. James is studying for a Masters in Theology and Religion and Jennifer is studying for a Masters in Counseling. Jennifer has taught middle school chorus for the past four years while James worked in television and video. Kenneth Rolle works as a teacher employed by The Ministry of Education. He resides in Nassau, Bahamas, and has two children. Aimee (Jarrard) Hays is a fifth grade teacher for the Floyd County School System. She resides in Rome, Georgia, with husband Tony and newest addition to the family, Hunter, born March 19, 1999. Michelle Ortiz works as an Administrative Assistant at Oasis Community Church in Lakeland, Florida, where she resides.
Charles Russell works as a youth and associate pastor for Evangel Temple Assembly of God. He and wife Juliana Russell reside in Charlotte, North Carolina.
1998 Andrew Overby serves as youth pastor for First A/G LaGrange. He resides in LaGrange, Georgia, with wife Krista (Wiles) Overby. Kenneth DeChant works as a young adults pastor for the South Hills Assembly Church. He was recently married to Keri DeChant on July 21, 2000, and they reside in South Park, Pennsylvania. James Halfhill is currently working as youth pastor for Glad Tidings Church, and resides in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He is married to Sheri Ruffin Halfhill and they have two children, Katie and Jake, with one on the way. Carl Agee is currently residing in Lakeland, Florida. He is married to Nancy Agee who is employed by Southeastern College. They have three children: Bridget, Bradley, and Branden. Carin Hoppe currently resides in Smyrna, Georgia. Ramon Bassett currently serves as assistant pastor and principal at Living Faith Christian Academy. He is married to Andrea Bassett and they have two children, Daniel and Josiah. They reside in Charleston, West Virginia
Jim and Misty (Mancini) Walters are going on their fifth year of marriage. Jim is currently employed at Southeastern College as the first Admission Counselor. Misty is working for Lockheed Martin IMS as an Employability Specialist while earning her Masters in Counseling Psychology (A.G.T.S.). They currently www.secollege.edu
Michelle Sass is employed by the School District of Hillsborough County where she is working as a Theatre Instructor. She is currently building a theatre program at one of the newer high schools in the county. She resides in Tampa, Florida. Kelley (Davis) Sikes works as a Sales Representative for Danka Office Imaging. She is married to Jason Sikes and they reside in Mobile, Alabama. Robert Morton serves as pastor for
Greater Vision Tabernacle in Florence, South Carolina. He is married to Linda Morton and they have two children, Charles and John. Anne (Cruea) Stocks married Jonathan Stocks in May of 1999. She works as a Bookkeeper and Secretary for Abundant Life Church. They reside in Indianapolis, Indiana. Andy Callan is currently residing in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
1999 James Sharpless currently works as a math teacher for Blue Ridge High School in Greenville, South Carolina, where he resides. Wayne Starkey is making his home in Valdosta, Georgia, where he works as a Manager for a local Wendy’s. Michael Jarzabkowski currently resides in New Haven, Connecticut, where he is a student. He is married to Pricilla.
Jeremiah and Victoria Baker were recently married on May 12, 2000. Jeremiah serves as the youth pastor and worship leader for Faith Assembly of God in Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania, where the couple resides. Donald Lajoie works as a Welder for Chart Storage Systems. He resides in Bradford, Massachusetts, with wife Bonnie. Robert Anderson was appointed pastor for New Life Assembly in Tampa, Florida, in January of 2000. He and wife Pamela Anderson have a little boy named Andrew. The family resides in Seffner, Florida. Jason Jakum works as a youth pastor for New Covenant Church. He resides in Bristol, Connecticut. Michael Wilhelm II is employed with Geico Direct, working as the Internet Team Webmaster. He resides in Lakeland, Florida. THE SOUTHEASTERNER
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class notes Amy Mixer currently lives in Pennsylvania Furnace, Pennsylvania.
2000 Jennifer Smallwood is currently working as an elementary school teacher where she resides in Cornelia, Georgia. Amanda Rednour currently resides in Lakeland, Florida. Christy Keiser is a kindergarten teacher at Evangel Christian School in Lakeland, Florida, where she resides.
Engagements
Catrina (Smith) Arnold works as Family Services Director for Headstart. She and husband Joseph Arnold currently reside in Troy, Alabama. Angie Smallwood recently married Roger Smallwood on June 3, 2000. They reside in El Centro, California, where Angie works as an elementary teacher. They are expecting their first child on April 4, 2001! Congratulations! Jason Houston and Heidi Ericksen (seniors) were engaged on January 20, 2001, on campus. They plan to marry December 15, 2001. Congratulations!
Tonya Markham works as a Counselor in the Admissions Office at Southeastern College. She recently got engaged to Dave Nelson on October 28, 2000. They plan to marry May 5, 2001. She resides in Lakeland, Florida. Tamara (Jones) Thompson currently works as an English teacher for Baldwin County High School. She was recently married to David Thompson on May 6, 2000. They reside in Daphne, Alabama. Kate (Liljedahl) Hayman recently moved to Oradell, New Jersey. Beth Clifton currently resides in Wintergarden, Florida.
Help Us! Please send us your latest news...you are an important part of our school’s heritage. If you have a photo, send it as well. Return this form with your class notes in the convenient envelope provided or e-mail to alumni@secollege.edu. Contact us today!
Melissa Hazelbaker and Jared Hatcher were married December 16, 2000. Melissa is presently working as an Admission Counselor for a local private college. Jared is an Industrial Engineer and is presently employed by Publix Direct. The couple currently resides in Lakeland, Florida.
Nick Jones and Leslie Sheppard (seniors) were engaged on January 19, 2001, at the Disney Boardwalk in Orlando. The wedding date is set for February 23, 2002. Congratulations!
Travis Gardner is newly graduated and has decided to go on the road as an Evangelist. He calls his home Naples, Florida.
Name
Class Year
Street
City
Home Phone
State
Zip
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Phone
Your News Spouse Alumnus(a)?
Anniversary Date If Yes, Class Year
Family Additions
New Position/Promotion Civic or Church Position Recent Book or Article
Graduate Study
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THE SOUTHEASTERNER
SPRING 2001
www.secollege.edu
final perspective Zeal is the Deal by Steven M. Fettke
M
ost of us can remember the great
College is not a one-stop shopping
zeal we had as new converts. We
center or cure-all for every
wanted everyone to respond to the gospel
situation. The faculty relies on
as we had and we were impatient with
both classroom experience and
those who resisted our best evangelistic
opportunities for practical
efforts. Our zeal was admirable but often
application for students to put
misguided and uninformed. The Apostle
into practice through their
spoke of a kind of zeal that was quite
student ministries what has been
earnest but “without knowledge”(Romans 10:2). You may
discussed and studied through class. But the faculty also
have heard the story of the pastor who needed to raise
relies on parents to exhort their zealous children to
extra funds to repair the church heating system and roof
attend church regularly and maintain their devotional
damaged in a storm. The next Sunday he announced
discipline. Zealous students also need their local churches
from the pulpit, “The board approved a special offering
to continue to intercede for them and support them in
today to get repairs done to our church right away. As
every way possible. The credit for producing zealous
the offering plates are passed, I promise that the person
graduates ready to win their world for Christ should not
who gives the most in the offering will get to pick three
go completely to the faculty, nor should they shoulder
hymns for the next service.” After the offering was taken
the blame for those students who become discouraged
an usher passed a note to the pastor telling him who had
and apathetic in their faith. Pastors, congregations,
given the most. It was little old Miss Smith, the local
parents, and faculty are a team that channels the zeal of
spinster. The pastor said to the congregation, “Let’s all
young people so that they are ready to do the Lord’s
thank Miss Smith for her generous donation and invite
work with great energy and earnestness.
her up to pick her hymns.” As Miss Smith came to the
I trust that you who are pastors, parents, and alumni
front to the applause of the congregation, she slowly
will join with the faculty in praying for and supporting
turned around to face the congregation, stretched out
these zealous students through their four years of college
her arm and said, “I pick him! And him! And him!” Yes,
training for their professional life in a world in need of a
zeal without knowledge can be dangerous!
loving gospel message and messenger. We are all a team,
Here is the issue before the faculty here at the
committed to the preparation of young people who are
college: How do we channel the zeal of our students
excited about the gospel and know how to present the
without discouraging them in their earnestness? The
message in a loving and wise way. Our team goal is zeal
answer to that question is a complex one, but one the
with knowledge, and to do that we need the whole team
faculty has to face every semester. The short answer is
working together. Thank you, pastor, parents, and
for faculty to be guided by the Holy Spirit as they shape
alumni, for all that you do to make Southeastern College
and mold young people for their future. The long answer
a success in preparing the next generation for the
is a combination of events and people. Southeastern
enrichment of the kingdom of God.
www.secollege.edu
THE SOUTHEASTERNER
SPRING 2001
31
The programs. Biology Business Accounting Marketing Management Church Ministries Bible Interdisciplinary Studies Missions Pastoral Studies Youth Ministry Communication Broadcasting Journalism/Public Relations Theatre Education Elementary Education Exceptional Student Education Middle Grades Pre-Kindergarten/Primary Secondary English English & Inter-Cultural Studies Music Music Education Music Performance Sacred Music Psychology Social Work Special programs. Collegiate Master’s Commission IBM ThinkPad University
Be salt. Being the salt of the earth means not staying off in a corner by ourselves. If we are to season this life, we must be present in the world – not compromising our faith, but actively using it to make a difference. – Dr. Mark Rutland, President
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