Treveccan | Spring 2018

Treveccan

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Trevecca announces face-toface classes in Atlanta

18 | WOVEN IN TIME Celebrating Dr. Homer J. Adams’

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How two Trevecca alumni are making their mark through real estate (p. 15)

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THE MAGAZINE OF TREVECCA NAZARENE UNIVERSITY

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WELCOME TO ATLANTA

“I have learned that I play a special part in the Body of Christ.

I have experienced brokenness externally through the people around me, and internally as I try to figure out what it means to be like Christ. Trevecca has been a safe place that accepts my doubts, searching, and my broken pieces. Thank you for taking a weight off of my shoulders.�

MIKAYLA KNOX social work major

Mikayla is one of more than 300 Trevecca students who benefit from endowed scholarships each year.

These scholarships make pursuing a quality Christian education in an authentic, caring community possible for so many. Help these students write their next chapter through your large and small gifts.

Make your gift today at give.trevecca.edu.

Contents FOREWORD President’s Imprint From the Hill In Your Own Words

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FOCUS Carry High Her Banner My Trevecca Story Leadership and Service

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F E AT U R E S Property Brothers 15 Trevecca alumni Mike and Tim Runyan may not have their own TV show, but these “property brothers” are making their mark in the real estate business.

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Woven in Time 18 Dr. Homer J. Adams and his wife, Beatrice, are the epitome of what it means to be faithful supporters of the University. Just in the past four school years, their endowed scholarship has allowed more than 20 students to attend Trevecca. That’s why it was an easy decision to name the University’s newest giving society— the Adams League of Loyal Donors—in their honor.

Finding Focus 21 Ryan Crouse knew getting his MBA would allow him to advance his career. What he didn’t realize was that it would help him find his focus and hone his leadership style.

Feature Woven in Time

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EPILOGUE

Finding Focus

Campaign News 24 Athletics News 26 Alumni News 27 Postscript 30

Treveccan

PRESIDENT’S IMPRINT

Vol. 88 No. 2 Spring 2018 President

Dan Boone, ’74

V.P. for External Relations Peg Cooning

Associate V.P. of Marketing & Communications Matt Toy

Editor

Mandy Crow

Graphic Designers Stephens Hiland, ’15 Nick Kerhoulas

Contributors

Bailey Basham, ’17 Nancy Dunlap, ’67 Logan Newkirk, ’15 Hannah Pollok, ’17 Greg Ruff, ’87, MOL ’13 Jenny Sowers Anne Twining, ’74 Jonathan Wright, ’13

Contact Information: Treveccan 333 Murfreesboro Road Nashville, TN 37210 615-248-1695 treveccan@trevecca.edu

Main number 615-248-1200

Office of Admissions 615-248-1320

Office of Alumni & Church Engagement 615-248-7735

www.trevecca.edu www.facebook.com/treveccanazarene www.twitter.com/Trevecca The Treveccan (USPS 394470) is published quarterly by Trevecca Nazarene University, 333 Murfreesboro Road, Nashville, TN 372102877. Periodicals Postage Paid at Nashville TN. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Treveccan, 333 Murfreesboro Road, Nashville, TN 37210-2877

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Business Is Good This is the motto of the Nashville Chamber of Commerce.

Given the exploding success of the city, it is a great slogan: Business is good.

A few weeks ago I was reading our student newspaper, the TrevEchoes. Lead articles featured students who were running businesses from their dorm rooms. Brittney Kent embroiders portraits of people’s pets and distributes them through stores like Thistle and Leaves. David Weflen runs a wedding photography business that is paying his tuition. Three former PR guys have started a group called Anthem Road and are booking concerts and selling CDs. Josh Durham opened a business called Weighting Comforts, which sells weighted blankets that improve sleep and reduce anxiety for kids with anxiety disorders.

They are joining recent graduate Lucas Reed, who created Rippl, a nonprofit aimed at helping developing communities create thriving businesses. Before him was Jordan Taylor, behind the Blimey Cow website and podcast. And before Reed and Taylor, there were entrepreneurs like Greg Daily, Joel Williams, and Joe Storey in the making. Deep in the DNA of Trevecca is the creative capacity to see something that does not exist and go after it.

Byron Middendorf, another graduate entrepreneur, tells me that Trevecca has the unique capacity to take a student that might blend into the crowd and never emerge in a large state university and give this student the kind of mentoring, peer leadership opportunities, social maturity and personal confidence to believe that he or she can build a business from scratch. I believe he is right. And the secret sauce may well be the relationships between students and professors.

Trevecca places strong emphasis on undergraduate research which equips students to imagine, research, discover and create.

The Student Research Symposium is one of my favorite events on campus as we gather to see the creative work of about 40 students every spring. They often end up presenting in national conferences, competing in investment competitions and launching their own businesses before they graduate. For me, the joy of working in this environment grows every year.

At Trevecca, business is good.

100 WORDS ON LEADERSHIP The University’s mission statement is straightforward: Trevecca Nazarene University is a Christian community providing education for leadership and service. Throughout Trevecca’s long history, we have never shied away from the hard work of leadership. From these hallowed halls have come countless leaders, men and women who shepherd congregations, lead corporations and guide and shape employees, children, organizations and more. To lead is to serve, the saying goes, and, at Trevecca, we take that to heart, following in the footsteps of our Savior. So serve, Treveccans, and let your servant leadership change the world—or at least your piece of it.

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CAMPUS NEWS

Welcome to Atlanta Trevecca’s School of Graduate and Continuing Studies (SGCS) will begin offering face-to-face classes in two Atlanta locations this fall.

The University will offer associate, degree completion, bachelor’s and graduate programs in Duluth and College Park.

“This decision builds on Trevecca’s long tradition of providing adult and graduate learners with degree programs that fit their unique needs and schedules,” said Dr. Tim Eades, associate provost and vice president for graduate and continuing studies. “We’re excited to offer these quality programs in Atlanta and help more students achieve their educational and professional goals.”

Trevecca began exploring the possibility of offering classes in the Atlanta area more than two years ago. Trevecca alumnus and Gwinnett County native Michael Runyan was instrumental in helping the University to locate property in the Atlanta area.

In February, the University announced Dr. Shawn Barkley Thomas as the regional dean of Georgia. With more than 26 years of experience managing educational, banking and financial institutions, Thomas will provide insightful and innovative leadership, Eades says.

Thomas’ experience with new site start-ups, honed over the last 18 years with Ohio Christian University and SunTrust Bank, will inform and guide her success.

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Thomas holds a bachelor’s degree in business economics from Florida A&M, as well as an executive MBA from Mercer University’s Stetson School of Business and Economics and a doctorate in organization and management with a specialization in management education from Capella University. In addition, Thomas also earned a post-graduate certificate in college teaching from Capella.

Professionally, Thomas most recently served as the vice president and dean of Ohio Christian University’s Georgia campuses. A dedicated teacher, she has taught undergraduate courses in business, finance, leadership and management as well as global studies.

A native of Gretna, Fla., Thomas lives in South Metro Atlanta with her husband, the Rev. Ronnie M. Thomas Jr. and their four children, Jordyn, Axel, Shiloh and Ronnie III. She currently serves on the national board for Forever Family and previously served on the board of directors for Midtown Assistance Center.

For more information about the School of Graduate and Continuing Studies and the degree programs that will be offered in Atlanta, visit online.trevecca.edu.

KNOW-HOW

TIPS FOR STARTING A COMMUNITY GARDEN

Want to connect with your neighbors and create more green space in your community? Start a community garden. We checked in with the farmers at the Trevecca Urban Farm to get a few tips about how to cultivate community and crops right where you live.

ENGAGE YOUR COMMUNITY. “The most difficult part of beginning garden work at a church or in a community is not learning how to plant or keep things alive,” said Jason Adkins, environmental projects director. “It’s engaging your community.” Reach out to neighbors, community organizations, business owners, nonprofits, churches and clubs within your community to learn more about your neighbors and the issues that matter to them. Rather than taking an idea that worked somewhere else and imposing it on your community, Adkins says it’s better to create a plan that takes into account the unique qualities of your neighborhood. Consider what your community has to offer and treat it as the one-of-a-kind place it is.

IDENTIFY RESOURCES. Building off that idea, it’s important to discover the resources available to you, including local businesses that are willing to invest and neighborhood organizations anxious to create healthier food options in your area,

and partners who can help you gain access to needed tools, materials and know-how. Adkins and the staff at the Urban Farm are always willing to share their expertise, and Karen Shaw, coordinator of the Trevecca Urban Farm, is a certified master gardener. If you need local help, check with local colleges, extension offices and local gardening groups or associations who can offer advice and guidance.

FIND A SPOT. Locating a central spot for your community garden is key. A good place to start may be a local elementary school. “One great place to start is with the schools,” Adkins says. “We always start with the children because they haven’t outgrown their love of wild things, of living things.” If you’ll be growing food in your garden, it’s important to find a location that gets at least six hours of sun a day. Check with local businesses, neighbors and others in your community. The perfect neighborhood spot probably already exists; you just may have to do some investigating to find it.

DESIGN YOUR GARDEN TO FIT THE COMMUNITY IT SERVES. Does your neighborhood need more access to healthy food options? What kind of wildlife might affect the growth of your plants? What tools will you have available? What plants grow best in your climate? How many people will be working in the garden? Gardens can be an important way to create community within your neighborhood, get to know your neighbors and fight food deserts. “In our program, we found that we just needed to start growing the good food right where we are,” Adkins says. “We had plenty of vacant lots; that was a community asset we identified. We had schools and businesses that were willing to allow us to grow good food. It was a place where we could teach and bring good food out of the ground. So it became a new opportunity for our program.”

Learn more: www.trevecca.edu/communitygardens

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Top of the Class End of an Era Long-time University administrator Steve Harris announced his retirement in March. Harris, who has served as the dean of students at Trevecca since 1984, will step down on June 30.

Dr. Dan Boone, president of Trevecca, described Harris as the “walking brand of Trevecca,” a model employee who embodies the values and mission of the University.

“Steve Harris embodies all that is good about us,” Boone said. “His leadership is unparalleled for length and quality within Nazarene higher education. Upon his retirement, I celebrate the contribution he has made to a whole generation of Trevecca students. He is a Christian man, a faithful servant and a great friend of all.”

Harris, trained and educated as a coach, always knew he wanted to mentor and guide students. Looking back over his career, Harris can see how God has used and refined that desire in the role that would define his career.

“I never felt called to preach, but part of the reason I wanted to coach and teach was to be able to make a difference in peoples’ lives,” Harris said. “When you’re coaching a team, you have the influence over your team, which is 12-15 players. In this role, I’ve been able to have a lot more influence and a lot broader influence across the campus.”

It’s the students and staff that Harris says he’ll miss the most. He says working with students has been the most rewarding part of his career.

“By far [the most rewarding part] has been the relationships you build with students,” Harris said.

“Working with our students has been such an honor because, overall, they have been such a quality group. It has been a blessing for me and for my family to serve at Trevecca. Leaving the students is part of what makes this decision difficult.” Read more about Harris’ Trevecca career at www.trevecca.edu/Harris.

Dr. Rick Badley, professor of chemistry in Trevecca’s Department of Science and Mathematics, is the 2018 recipient of the University’s Teaching Excellence Award. Badley received the honor during Trevecca’s annual Teaching Excellence Convocation, held in Boone Convocation Center on Feb. 22. A member of Trevecca’s faculty since 2011, Badley spent 17 years as a professor at MidAmerica Nazarene University, serving as the chair of his department for more than a decade. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Southwestern Oklahoma State and a Ph.D. from Oklahoma State University.

“I feel that God has blessed me by bringing me here and allowing me to work with the students, faculty and staff of Trevecca,” Badley says in response to the award. “It is an honor to be chosen from among this great group of faculty for an award such as this, and it challenges me to live up to the trust they have put in me.”

Dean Diehl, director of Trevecca’s music business program, served as the keynote speaker during the convocation. The 2017 Teaching Excellence Award recipient, Diehl recounted the story of his calling, emphasizing God’s timing, patience and faithfulness.

“God is faithful. God is patient, and God is willing to let us find a path,” he said. “That day I made a decision, a decision to open my heart, scars and all, to become vulnerable. I looked toward the door, the last door I thought I would ever choose again, the door that said teacher, reached out, turned the knob and walked through.

“If my story means nothing else, it means that it’s never too late,” Diehl continued, ending with a challenge to the audience. “You stand there before a thousand doors. What happens next?”

Watch the convocation in its entirety at www.trevecca.edu/TeachingExcellence.

Farm Fresh Summer is a busy time for the Trevecca Urban Farm, and this summer is no exception. The farm will host three camps this summer for high school and middle school students. Scheduled for 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. each week, the camps cost $150 and include lunch and a farm T-shirt. Learn more or register at www.trevecca.edu/farmcamp.

• High School Camp: June 4-8 • Middle School Camp: June 18-22

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• Bee Camp: July 16-20

In Your Own Words Current Trevecca students share a few thoughts on how Trevecca has helped them to grow and learn—and why the Trevecca community is so special.

ABBY DUREN

S E N I O R , S O C I A L J U ST I C E M A J O R “Trevecca has been a home for me because of the way it establishes community in all aspects—dorm life, spiritual life, etc. Because of how close-knit the community is, you feel known and seen. I think that’s what being in a home is.”

UY NGUYEN

J U N I O R , C O M M U N I C AT I O N S ST U D I E S M A J O R “Before coming to Trevecca, I did not picture myself with all the responsibilities I have today. The school has enabled me to be a student leader in a position where I can use my creative abilities. I’ve learned that being a good leader means people can depend on you, and being a great leader means knowing you can depend on others as well.”

MIKAYLA HATFIELD

JUNIOR, CLASSICAL PERFORMANCE MAJOR “The community at Trevecca is so welcoming. When coming in as a freshman, I was terrified (as are most freshman). I was so scared that I wouldn’t be able to make any friends, and that the professors would be scary and unfriendly. When I actually got here, though? It was the exact opposite.

The upperclassmen and professors welcomed us, not only into a community, but into a family. Something I love to do is develop relationships with the people around me, and Trevecca is the perfect spot to do that!”

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CARRY HIGH HER BANNER

“When God calls you, He’s already considered who you are. And He’s still calling you—not because of who you are but because of who He is.

In your weakness, He is your strength.”

— S A D I E R O B E R T S O N I N C H A P E L AT TREVECCA Sadie Robertson, a best-selling author and former “Duck Dynasty” star, spoke in chapel at Trevecca on Feb. 20. She urged students to embrace the fullness of God’s character, stepping out in faith when He calls despite fear. To learn more, visit www.trevecca.edu/Sadie.

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M Y T R E V E C CA STO RY

Facing Fears

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Jocelyn McCoy, ’12, MOL ’15, currently serves as the senior outreach recruiter for Trevecca’s School of Graduate and Continuing Studies. In her Trevecca story, McCoy shares how Trevecca helped her to finish her degree and pursue a master’s. Today, McCoy is a key part of helping many of the students in Trevecca’s School of Graduate and Continuing Studies (SGCS) start their own Trevecca stories.

I had two-and-a-half years at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville right out of high school and, of course, had a little too much fun. My mom said, “You’re coming home.”

So life happened. I got married and had kids, but I always wanted to go back and finish. I literally watched the MHR (Bachelor’s of Arts in management and human relations) for 10 years. All of the fears that I hear now when I talk to students—those were all my fears. Can I even do this now? Will the younger students be better than me?

Finally, I did what Christians are supposed to do, and I prayed about it.

When I prayed, I knew I needed to go.

I got laid off from my job in 2010, and my husband said, “You’ve always wanted to go back to school. Now’s the time.” So I went to an info session.

I thought I had 60 credit hours or so to transfer in, but it turned out, because it had been so long, that I only had about 48 credit hours. I just started to cry. My adviser, Pam Costa, said, “Do you want this degree? If you want this degree, we can put you on a plan to make it happen.” So that’s what we did.

I had promised my mom before she passed away that I would finish my degree, and when I did, I felt a sense of gratification and thankfulness that God would push me in the right direction.

“I did it! After 30-plus years, I did it. And so can you.”

Four months after graduation, I got hired at Trevecca. A year later, I started the master’s program in organizational leadership. The more I looked at it, I thought, That’s me. That’s what I do. This time I was juggling working full-time and getting my degree. My kids were so proud. My husband—he was my biggest supporter.

So now, I’m really even more motivated to be the best that I can be and just tell more people, “I did it! After 30-plus years, I did it. And so can you.”

My Trevecca Story is a place for you to share your memories of Trevecca, as well as big realizations and special moments you experienced on campus. Submit your essay for consideration to Mandy Crow, 333 Murfreesboro Road, Nashville, TN 37210-2877 or at Treveccan@ Trevecca.edu. Please limit yourself to 700 words and include your name, class year, address, email address and phone number.

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LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE

MAKING A DIFFERENCE PH.D. STUDENTS HELP VETERANS THROUGH INNOVATIVE PROJECT

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When Dr. Dianne Bradley learned that 22 veterans commit suicide each day, she knew she had to do something to help.

That’s when Bradley, a licensed marriage and family therapist who teaches in Trevecca’s Graduate Counseling Program, launched TennVets, a Middle Tennessee nonprofit aimed at connecting veterans with mental health professionals. The counselors provide the services free of charge on an ongoing basis.

First-year doctoral students in Trevecca’s Ph.D. Clinical Counseling program got involved with the organization last fall through a social justice project in Bradley’s Advanced Multicultural Counseling course.

Bradley’s students developed a campaign to raise statewide awareness about TennVets. The campaign included developing a social media presence for the nonprofit as well as securing advertising space on billboards, trolleys and buses in downtown Nashville.

“A little bit of research revealed that veteran suicides are not directly related to PTSD—post traumatic stress disorder—but more related to moral injury,” Bradley said.

Moral injury refers to the damage to a person’s conscience or moral compass when that person perpetrates, witnesses or fails to prevent acts that transgress their own moral or ethical values.

“These are veterans,” Bradley continued. “They’ve served, they’ve seen, they’ve experienced horrific things. That’s the conflict that they carry with them internally, which sets them up for a lot of difficulty in merging with a society that hasn’t experienced that.”

Jonathon Roy, a Ph.D. student involved in the project, said much of the students’ work focused on education about moral injury.

“What makes TennVets special is that it focuses on moral injury,” Roy said. “So we did a lot of educating and explaining what that is. My specific part was to create a Facebook page for the organization. We started it 22 days before Veteran’s Day and did a post every day for 22 days focusing on ways to help veterans.”

“It’s hard to follow up on all the communication through the website,” Bradley continued. “Synergy is growing because of what these doctoral students did.”

For Roy, the experience was so much more than a class project.

“It was very eye-opening,” he said. “It’s very easy to read about social justice, and we hear a lot in the news about big social justice changes and think, ‘Oh, I could never do anything like that.’ This really made it applicable and helped me to see that anyone can help a population that doesn’t get a lot of attention and isn’t really thought of a lot. We can make a difference. We can advocate for our clients and be a positive force.”

“WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE. WE CAN ADVOCATE FOR OUR CLIENTS AND BE A POSITIVE FORCE.”

Bradley said the project also required her students to challenge some of their preconceived notions of marginalized communities.

A key part of the project, Bradley said, was that the students learned to rely on each other’s strengths. Each of the students had different roles. Roy focused on social media while other classmates turned their attention to marketing, connecting with local churches or counselors, research and more.

“Most of them didn’t think of veterans as fitting in the category of a marginalized population,” Bradley said of her students. “The last time we met, that was a big confession for several of the students. ‘I’ll never look at them the same again,’ the students said. Veterans were invisible people, and now they’re no longer invisible people.”

The students’ work hasn’t gone unnoticed. The project has garnered national and statewide attention.

While the project may be over, Roy says that the project helped him to learn skills and tools he’ll use well into the future. More than that, it helped him to see how focusing on one population can have an incredible impact.

“The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) posted about TennVets on the national site, and I’ve had communication with two other states who want to replicate the model. I’ve been in communication with a lobbyist in Washington, D.C., who wants to replicate it across the country,” Bradley said. “Operation Stand Down has shown interest as well as the Joshua Chamberlain Society.”

In fact, Bradley says it’s been tough to keep up with all the people and groups that are interested.

“There is endless need,” Roy said. “A lot of counselors, when we first start out, we want to save the world. But that’s not really possible. Who or what can I focus on? What can I give 110 percent to and make a difference?

With that focus on one area, you can still do a lot of good.”

Learn more about TennVets at www.tennvets.org and follow the organization on Facebook.

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Long before the hit HGTV show “Property Brothers” aired in 2011, Mike and Tim Runyan were closing deals of their own. The brothers Runyan, who both graduated from Trevecca in the 70s, have been in the business for more than 30 years—much longer than HGTV brothers Jonathan and Drew Scott have been swinging hammers and helping families sign on dotted lines.

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Article by Bailey Basham ’17

Feels Like Home Mike, ’73, a commercial real estate broker in Atlanta, and Tim, ’79, a residential broker in Charleston, West Virginia, both came to Trevecca to play basketball. Tim said it was the southern hospitality and the hometown charm that brought them to Nashville, but it was the Trevecca magic that kept them.

“I looked at several schools in West Virginia and visited another Christian university before Trevecca, but when I visited [Trevecca], it was like home,” Tim says. “The students were gathered around the Cascades or out on the lawn throwing Frisbee, and somebody had a guitar playing worship music. We went down to the Hub, and in 30 minutes, I’d already made 30 friends. Trevecca just really stood out.”

When they were younger, Mike and Tim had no interest in real estate—they only wanted to play basketball.

“I wanted to be Jerry West, the NBA basketball player,” Tim says.

“He’s a Hall of Famer, the point guard for the Lakers and from a small town in West Virginia—just like me. When I was a kid, I’d get out in the driveway and pretend I was Jerry West.”

Mike echoes the sentiment.

MIKE RUNYAN

“In high school and junior high, I just wanted to dribble,” Mike says.

“And I met my wife in high school, so I wanted to play basketball and see Jackie.”

Jackie, Mike’s wife and a Trevecca graduate, completed the University’s graduate counseling program in the early 70s—the same program daughter Emily graduated from 30 years later.

Mike says more than a dozen Runyans have been through Trevecca since he came to the University after two years at Mount Vernon Nazarene University in Ohio. Brother Doug, cousin Greg, sons and daughters, nieces, nephews and cousins have all been to the Hill and wandered through more than a few of Trevecca’s hallowed halls.

It’s where Mike and Jackie’s son, Jonathan, met his wife, Courtney.

The Runyans’ link to Trevecca runs deep. Mike and Jackie even lived next door to now University President Dan Boone and his wife and Trevecca sweetheart, Denise, in the married housing units on campus.

TIM RUNYAN

“When I think of Trevecca in the 70s, it is mostly about great friends,” Boone says. “We were getting married, working hard to make ends meet, figuring out careers and callings and just enjoying life. Mike and Jackie Runyan were launching their life together alongside Denise and me. Our first homes were across the same apartment breezeway [from each other],” Boone recalls.

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Finding Home

Coming Full Circle

And after graduating, it was the Runyans’ uncle, Vernon, a commercial real estate broker in Charleston, who introduced the brothers to the idea of selling others their first homes.

At the end of January, Trevecca announced that the School of Graduate and Continuing Studies would be opening two satellite locations in the Atlanta area. (More on page 5.) Using his commercial real estate expertise and Atlanta know-how, Mike has been instrumental in securing spaces for the program both in Atlanta and in Gwinnett County, Ga.

“He was kind of my hero,” Tim says.

Now more than 30 years later, both brothers are still in the business following in the family’s footsteps—and they’re doing well.

Mike continues to work with commercial real estate in Atlanta and recently accepted a new role with Trevecca in the area. He has earned the respected title of Certified Commercial Investment Member. Out of the 88 broker offices in the Charleston area, Tim’s company was voted number three and has held the title for 10 years.

ethics rather than profit

Both brothers give credit to Trevecca for the foundations they’ve built their businesses upon.

“The education there totally prepared me for where I am in real estate today,” Mike says. “The professors were interactive, interested in our future and took an interest in making sure we were prepared for the fields we chose. It was Trevecca that laid that great foundation we’ve got today.”

Tim pointed back to the way Trevecca taught business—with an emphasis on ethics rather than profit.

“Trevecca taught [us] biblically how to do business,” Tim remembers “And the business department taught much more than how to make money—it taught how to be ethical, which is huge, how to be far-sighted and it taught how to always do the right thing. When you do what’s right, you will prosper. I believe that today.

“My proudest time is right now,” he continues. “Both my sons work with us in the business, and my wife is the business manager. That’s nothing money could buy.”

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“Mike’s knowledge of and reputation in Atlanta have given us a giant boost— he is the walking brand of Trevecca in Atlanta,” Boone says. “It seems we always get the opportunity to reinvest in the places that invested in us.”

Mike says he’s honored to take part in Trevecca’s ministry again. In March, he accepted a job serving as the property manager and director of business development for the SGCS’ work in Atlanta.

We began the process about a year and a half ago and found a great site in south Atlanta [before realizing] there was a huge demand for educational facilities in Gwinnett too,” Mike explains. “I located and negotiated the leases, and we’re going to be opening the campuses in the fall.

“I never knew that I was going to be able to be a part of the ministry at Trevecca or the education for young people, but it is a thrill and a privilege to use my education and background to be able to assist the college in moving forward,” he continues. “I never thought I would have had this opportunity but God is using me in a new capacity, and it really is amazing how His works come full circle.”

Bailey Basham is a Trevecca grad.

She enjoys watering her plants, keeping organized, journaling and scoping out where to find the best chicken biscuit.

WOVEN IN TIME INTRODUCING THE A D A M S L E A G U E O F L OYA L D O N O R S

BY MANDY CROW

His portrait hangs in the hallway of Trevecca’s McClurkan Building, at home in the line of leaders who have stood at the helm of the University.

As president of the then-Trevecca Nazarene College, Dr. Homer Adams and his wife, Beatrice, guided the University through a number of accomplishments throughout his tenure (19791991), from the establishment of a graduate program in education and the creation of one of the first degree-completion programs designed for working adults to the construction of the Jernigan Student Center.

But for Adams, Trevecca’s only living president emeritus, his true legacy isn’t about construction projects or degree programs. It’s about changed lives.

“I hope I have been and still am an encourager,” Adams says. “I trust that I’ve been an influence for young people to surrender to Christ. I have endeavored to exert that influence.”

It’s a legacy he continues to live out. Now in his 90s, Adams is still a prolific writer, encouraging through books and letters. He and Bea are faithful supporters of Trevecca.

In many ways, the Adamses’ story is woven into the greater Trevecca story. Try as you might, but you can’t separate one from the other.

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WOVEN IN TIME A FAMILY LEGACY

FAITHFUL AND TRUE

Adams first came to Trevecca as a high school student. He arrived on campus in 1939, a fresh-faced 18-year-old. After graduating from Trevecca’s high school, he enrolled in the college, taking a few years away to serve out the final years of World War II with the U.S. Navy.

Upon his return, Adams completed his undergraduate degree and began working on a master’s degree in education at Peabody College for Teachers in 1948.

The couple has given faithfully to Trevecca for more than 38 years, through their endowed scholarship, Homer and Bea Adams Scholarship, and other gifts. It’s an expression of love for the Adams.

“We met at Trevecca,” Adams says. “We love Trevecca, and we have seen its beneficial influence on our family. It’s our regional college, and it’s worthy of our support.”

In 1951, Adams became the first Trevecca alumnus to earn a doctorate when he graduated from Peabody College with a Ph.D. in history.

Throughout all that time—while he was working on his master’s and completing his Ph.D.—Adams was teaching and eventually serving as the principal of Trevecca’s high school. He joined the Trevecca Nazarene College faculty as a history professor in 1954.

After more than a decade on the Trevecca faculty, Adams moved on to other institutions. First, he served a year on the faculty of Middle Tennessee State College (now University) in Murfreesboro, Tenn. Later, he became the academic dean—and eventually vice president—of the central campus of DeKalb College outside Atlanta.

During that time, he also served as a member of the Trevecca Board of Trustees.

In 1979, he became the first Trevecca alumnus to be named president of the University.

But if you ask Adams, the Adams family Trevecca story goes back a little further than all that. It begins in 1913, when his parents enrolled at Trevecca.

“The Adams family has had a student at Trevecca in every decade since the 1910s,” he says. “It began in 1913 when my two parents were enrolled. Sometimes we’ve had as many as three family members enrolled at a time.”

Even after their retirement, the Adamses have remained active members of the Trevecca community. While health concerns have kept them from participating in campus events as much as they’d like in these later years, Adams and Bea still visit campus occasionally.

Regardless, the University is never far from their hearts.

19 TREVECCAN

When a friend or family member passes away, the Adamses have a practice of donating $100 to the University in lieu of flowers. The money helps to fund the scholarship, which was created on the tenth anniversary of Adams’ presidency. Students have been benefitting from the scholarship for about 20 years.

Since the 2014-2015 academic year, 21 students have been awarded the scholarship, totaling $31,775.

Back in the 1980s while serving as president of the University, Adams felt called to tithe on the value of the housing and utilities he received.

For more than a decade, the couple invested that money into the scholarship fund.

“For 12 years, we paid the tithe into the school, which gave the scholarship a good start,” Adams says.

The scholarship is a way for the Adamses to continue to be involved in the lives of students and help them write their own Trevecca stories.

Each year the couple receives letters from the recipients, and they read each one carefully.

“We just received six letters from recipients of the scholarship,” Adams recounts. “So many of the students say, ‘Without this scholarship, I would not be able to attend Trevecca.’ I’d love to be able to meet some of them.”

WOVEN IN TIME A LEAGUE OF LOYAL DONORS The Adamses’ faithfulness to give to the University and support Trevecca students hasn’t gone unnoticed. The Office of External Relations recently announced the creation of a new giving society that will honor donors who give faithfully.

“It is critical that we recognize people that have been so loyal to the University in their donations,” says Peg Cooning, vice president of external relations. “One of the things we recognized is that there’s a core group of people like the Adamses who have been supporters at all levels and for all different programs. The creation of the Adams League gave us an opportunity to lift up those who have been so faithful in their giving.”

It wasn’t a hard decision to name the society in honor of the Adams family.

Adams Scholarship Recipient: Marina da Silva

“They are such a model of what it means to be faithful,” Cooning says. “When you look at the lists, the Adams were at the top of every list that we have in terms of support.”

The Adams League of Loyal Donors acknowledges donors who include Trevecca every year as part of their charitable giving. To become a member, donors must make a gift to the University for five or more consecutive years.

Eligible donors were recently notified of the recognition and their membership in the new society. The University will celebrate members’ milestone giving with special gifts and recognitions.

For Cooning, the new society is a way to honor faithful donors whose consistent gifts make scholarships and other projects possible. Gifts of all sizes make a big difference, she says.

Adams Scholarship Recipient: Pedro da Silva

“Up to this point, all of our recognition groups have centered on giving at certain levels,” Cooning says. “It’s important for us to recognize those who are giving every year at all levels. Small gifts faithfully given every year are as impactful as those of someone who gives a one-time gift. It really does make a difference in the lives of our students.”

Adams Scholarship Recipient: Allie Fuller

Adams Scholarship Recipient: Jacob Kannup

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Hannah Pollok, ’17

When Ryan Crouse (’18, MBA) started the master’s of business administration program in Trevecca’s School of Graduate and Continuing Studies (SGCS), he admits his focus was a little, well, out of focus.

“Getting an MBA isn’t about checking a box so you’ll receive a higher paying job,” he says. “Honestly, I started the program with a little of this mentality, but quickly learned that obtaining my MBA was much more than that.”

Crouse’s experience quickly changed his attitude, though. Now, just a few months shy of graduating with his master’s degree, Crouse is more focused on how he can become a better leader.

“Pursuing my MBA has taught me a great deal about leadership and that leaders can’t lead unless they’re willing to serve,” he says. “I think of this often in my career, and it’s certainly impacted the way I lead others today.”

MAKING THE DECISION For Crouse, who earned a bachelor’s degree from Miami University (Ohio) in marketing in 2002, going back to school to get his MBA wasn’t a snap decision. It was an idea that formed over a period of years.

After completing his undergraduate degree, Crouse spent more than a decade working for Ferguson Enterprises, a plumbing wholesaler,

21 TREVECCAN

mostly focusing on operations and wholesale management. In 2013, Crouse joined Healthcare Corporation of America (HCA) as project manager.

He recently moved into a new position at HCA: clinical provider support manager, a management position with the company’s IT support team.

A few years ago, Crouse’s wife, Katherine, completed her master’s in marriage and family therapy through Trevecca’s Graduate Counseling Program. She enjoyed the experience, and it got Crouse thinking about completing his master’s.

Choosing to do so at Trevecca wasn’t a difficult decision. Crouse says his wife’s experience with the University, combined with the fact that Trevecca didn’t require him to take the GMAT, and the program’s affordability influenced his decision.

“I knew that pursuing my MBA was already going to be very timeconsuming and the thought of preparing for a college prep exam was the last thing that I had time for,” Crouse says. “Trevecca’s tuition was extremely competitive compared to other MBA programs that offered a classroom experience.”

Crouse isn’t the only business professional to take notice of Trevecca’s graduate business program.

In terms of enrollment, Trevecca’s graduate business program currently ranks fourth in Middle Tennessee, following the University of Memphis, Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management and the Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

During the 2016-2017 academic year, Trevecca’s graduate business program was the fastest growing program in Tennessee.

The flexibility of the program, with one-night-aweek classes that fit Crouse’s already busy schedule, sealed the deal. Crouse says the ability to take one class at a time allows him to focus entirely on the classwork and discussions with his professors and classmates, helping him to fully engage with the content.

“I have learned a lot in every class and have been able to apply it quickly to my current career. The professors have all been wonderful and there honestly hasn’t been a class that I didn’t enjoy,” Crouse says.

LEADERSHIP LESSONS While earning his master’s degree will allow Crouse to advance his career, he says that what he’s learned will help him to do something even more important: help others to achieve their career goals.

“I think being able to relate to [employees] and hear from them [is important], not so much being the boss,” he says. “I want to challenge them, encourage them, but also listen to them and understand where they’re coming from.”

Servant leadership is a key component of Trevecca’s graduate programs, purposely woven into the courses. Students can expect to leave the program well prepared for management careers in the business world, ready to serve others and achieve results.

Rick Mann, professor of leadership and strategy and the director of graduate and professional studies, says that’s one of the things that sets Trevecca’s MBA program apart.

“Most MBA programs focus almost exclusively on the strategies of Fortune 500 corporations. At Trevecca, we begin with the servant leadership of our students as modeled by Jesus and then move toward the influence and impact they can make on organizations, companies, and corporations.” he says. “It is not just talking about servant leadership; it is helping students to develop the God-given inner life and compass that can fuel ongoing servant leadership practices.”

Dr. Jim Hiatt, dean of the Skinner School of Business and Technology, agrees.

“It is about flipping an organizational chart upside down and recognizing that a leader should be an organization’s ‘helper-in-chief ’ or number one servant,’’ he says, “aiding everyone to be the best versions of themselves possible and acting not out of selfishness, but for the greater good of all.

That’s true for Crouse. Now in a management position at HCA, he plans to use what he’s learned to invest in those he leads.

“I’m in a completely new role and [my team members] are the experts,” he says. “They have a ton of clinical knowledge. I want to support them to continue doing what they’re doing, but also take us to the next level.”

As for the future, Crouse will graduate with his MBA in May. Completing his master’s degree has opened up opportunities for advancement within his current company that he wasn’t eligible to apply for without a graduate degree.

He’s excited about what the future holds and grateful for his Trevecca experience.

“We have an emerging leaders program that you can’t even apply for unless you’re pursuing your MBA or have your MBA,” he says. “I applied right when I started at Trevecca, got to the interview round and didn’t get chosen. That’s on the top of my list. Now that I’m in a leadership role, having my MBA is definitely a competitive advantage.”

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The Story Begins TREVECCA SOPHOMORE DISCOVERS HER CALLING Callie Fuller’s Trevecca story began long before she ever enrolled in a class.

A fourth generation Nazarene, she often visited Trevecca to participate in TNT@ TNU and spend time with her older sister, then a student.

“We would stay with her in the residence hall and go to class with her,” Callie remembers. “I think it instilled in me at a young age that Trevecca was my dream school.”

Callie always knew she was going to college—and Trevecca was her dream school—but finances played a big role when it came time to make her decision. At one point, she feared she’d have to go to a different school.

“I almost switched schools because of money,” Callie says. “Getting the Adams Scholarship helped me. I probably wouldn’t be here without it.”

Callie is a recipient of the Homer and Bea Adams Scholarship, an endowed scholarship awarded to several students each academic year. It’s made her Trevecca story possible—and that story is just beginning.

Through her classes, Callie says she’s discovered her calling.

“I have a passion for homeless people,” the social work major says.

“I desire to help others. I really liked psychology and got interested in the counseling side. I think it’s the perfect thing for me.”

She says her work as a resident assistant and student worker in the social work department is preparing her for the future, while her Christian education is helping her to grow spiritually.

“I’m learning the skills I need to do my job, and I think being an RA is helping me to handle responsibilities and balance what I’ll be doing,” she says. “I’m learning how to live as a Christian in today’s world. I’ve grown more confident in myself and my strengths.”

LEARN MORE AND GET INVOLVED

www.trevecca.edu/give 23 TREVECCAN

increase staffing

expand athletic facilities Build operational infrastructure

#GOALS update music facilities

reduce debt insure christian impact

YOUR GENEROSITY IS HELPING MAKE OUR CAMPAIGN GOALS A REALITY C ampaign Goal: Reduce debt of graduating students and expand available scholarship funds to make Trevecca more affordable for new students and retaining current students.

R ea lity: The Trevecca Investment Committee has created the Scholarship Endowment Challenge Fund to encourage alumni and friends to help grow Trevecca’s scholarship endowment. More than $350,000 has already been committed through individual pledges from members of Trevecca’s Investment Committee.

The challenge fund is designed to encourage others to start new or grow existing scholarship endowments.

“Increasing Trevecca’s scholarship endowment funds is one of the best long-term strategies for making Trevecca affordable for students desiring to attend,” said Howard Ragsdale, chair of the Investment Committee. “We hope that Trevecca alumni and friends will take advantage of this opportunity to double the impact of their gift.” To be eligible, gifts and pledges must be between $1,000 to $10,000 and designated to scholarship endowments.

LEARN MORE W W W.T R E V E C C A . E D U / S C H O L A R S H I P C H A L L E N G E 615-248-1355 24

START your future today.

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Face-to-face or entirely online ONLINE: BACHELOR’S IN HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATION | MAY 8 BACHELOR’S IN PSYCHOLOGY | MAY 22 MASTER’S IN RELIGION | MAY 22 ASSOCIATE IN BUSINESS | MAY 29 DOCTORATE IN LEADERSHIP & PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE (ED.D.) | MAY 30

FACE‐TO‐FACE: DOCTORATE IN LEADERSHIP & PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE (ED.D.) | MAY 11 MASTER’S IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (MBA) | MAY 14

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Athletics News Top of their game

Two Trevecca greats are set to lead NCAA Division I teams to success next season. Former Trevecca soccer player, coach and hall of famer Mark Foster was recently tapped to helm the women’s soccer program at the University of Arkansas Little Rock, while volleyball stand-out Alexa Robertson Keckler has been named head volleyball coach at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Penn.

Foster, a 2009 graduate of the University, became the head coach of the women’s soccer team in 2013 and was inducted into the Athletics Hall of Fame in 2017.

In his four seasons as head coach, Foster compiled a 40-27-8 record and left the program as the second most winning coach in school history. In 2017, Foster made the jump to Division I athletics, serving as an assistant coach at the University of South Alabama.

Keckler, a 2000 graduate, brings 13 years of collegiate coaching experience to Lehigh after 8 seasons as the head coach at Muhlenberg College in Allentown, Penn. She compiled a 141-96 record at Muhlenberg and her studentathletes earned All-America, All-Region and all conference recognition, as well as academic honors. Keckler and her husband, fellow Trevecca alumnus and Drew University men’s basketball head coach, Darryl Keckler, have three daughters and one son.

CLASS OF 2018

Trevecca Athletics recently announced the 2018 inductees into the Trevecca Athletics Hall of Fame, to be inducted on April 25. They are:

MICHAEL JOHNSON, (’82) Meritorious Service Johnson served as Trevecca’s softball coach and women’s golf coach, leading the program to the first three Great Midwest Championships. He spent 30 years as the public address announcer in the Trojan Fieldhouse. Additionally, he was a part of the Trevecca athletics broadcast crew.

MINDY SEIGENTHALER NORRIS (’07) Women’s Golf Norris helped lead Trevecca to its first-ever TranSouth Athletic Conference Championship, which started a run of five straight. Norris also is the first Trojan to win a tournament and the first TranSouth Athletic Conference individual medalist.

CHELSEA BAILEY BRADLEY (’09)

your fu

RONE’ PHELPS RUSSELL (’04)

Softball Russell collected a number of honors for her play including being a 2004 NAIA Scholar-Athlete, two-time NAIA AllRegion first team selection, NAIA AllRegion second-team selection, three-time TranSouth All-Conference team member, and four-time TranSouth Scholar Athlete.

CURTIS LEWIS (’04) Men’s Basketball Lewis played for the Trojans over four seasons and scored 1,039 points in his NAIA All-American career. The scholarathlete added first-team TranSouth Athletic Conference honors to his honorable mention All-American selection in 2004.

Softball Bradley led the program to three NAIA National Tournaments with three NAIA Region and TranSouth championships. At the NAIA National tournament, her teams reached the Final Eight twice and the Final Three once. During her sophomore season, the team finished 59-11 and her four teams combined for a 180-54 record.

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Alumni News A L U M N I C E L E B R AT I O N S Scott (’08) and Kate Steadman Stine (’09) announce the birth of their son, Isaiah Jack Stine. Born July 17, 2017, Isaiah weighed 3 lbs. and 13 oz. and measured 16.5 inches. After a two-and-a-half-week stay in the NICU, Isaiah is a healthy, happy boy! (1)(Photo Credit: Carly Hall Photography and Designs) Jason and Nena Spaur Ryder (’04) are delighted to announce the arrival of their daughter, Maryanne Jalee.

Born Sept. 17, 2017, Maryanne is the granddaughter of Tracy (’77) and Valerie Spaur. They all live in Powhatan, Va., and enjoyed reuniting with friends at Trevecca’s 2017 Homecoming celebration.

Rev. Huey (’80) senior pastor at First Church of the Nazarene Birmingham, Ala., and Nancy Davis (’80), Cruise Planners travel agent, enjoyed a snowy Christmas with their first granddaughter, Audrey Davis, in Beaver Creek, Colo. The Davis were joined by their son, Huey (’10), and daughter-in-law, Chelsea Bell Davis (’11). (2)

Philanthropy Day luncheon in November. Draeger is the Tri-County Development Director for The Salvation Army in Peoria, Ill., and was a member of the first master’s in organizational leadership cohort at Trevecca Nazarene University. He has been with The Salvation Army since 2000. (4) (1)

(2)

ALUMNI CONNECTIONS 1990S Clark Vutilli (’99 MBA) has been accepted into the Forbes Coaches Council, an invitation-only community for leading business and career coaches. All Forbes Coaches Council members are personally selected to become a part of a network of successful peers and gain access to a variety of exclusive benefits and resources, including submitting thought leadership articles and industry-related tips to Forbes.com for publication. Vitulli is the founder and CEO of Music City Chief Executives (MCCE) in Nashville. MCCE offers coaching to business owners and senior executives. Learn more at www. musiccityceos.com.

2000S Dr. Kelley Pujol (06, 2012 Ed.D.) was certified as a John Maxwell coach, teacher and speaker in August at the International Maxwell Conference in Orlando, Fla. Dr. Pujol is the curriculum and instructional coach at Providence Christian Academy in Murfreesboro, Tenn.

(3)

2010S Richard Draeger, CFRE (’12 MOL), is the recipient of the Ian T. Sturrock Outstanding Fundraising Executive Award, presented by the central Illinois chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals at its National

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(3)

ACCOLADES Trevecca alumna Helen Hess (’60) is retiring from her second career, training the pages who serve in at the Virginia State Capitol, at the end of this year’s session. A middle school teacher for more than 30 years, Hess wasn’t quite ready to walk away from the opportunity to mold and shape young minds. That’s when she began her work with the page program.

While many states—and even the U.S. House of Representatives—have shut down their page programs, Virginia’s has persisted. Middle school students ages 1314 commit to spend 46 days in odd years and 60 days in even years assisting delegates and the Delegates Clerk’s office while the General Assembly is in session. They work five days a week, travel home on weekends and are expected to complete all required school work during their employment.

Hess ran the program, a hands-on civics lesson for about 40 teens each session, for 18 years. She has mentored more than 660 pages.

(4)

This year for the first time, one of Hess’ former pages has returned to the House of Delegates chamber. Jay Jones has come full circle and now serves as a delegate representing Norfolk.

2019 Alumni Cruise February 18-23, 2019

This 5-night Western Caribbean cruise is scheduled to sail out of Tampa and visit Key West, Fla. and Cozumel, Mexico with two additional days at sea.

Cruise fares start at $612 per person.

Call Cruise Planners at 610-622-1324 or visit trevecca.edu/alumnicruise for all the details and to register!

ALUMNI & FRIENDS WE WILL MISS Eleanor Hardy Burrow (’39) of Madison, Tenn., March 23, 2018.

A lifetime educator in the Metro Nashville Public School System, Eleanor graduated from Trevecca Demonstration School and Trevecca High School as well as the University. Eleanor’s uncle, Chester E. Hardy, served as the president of Trevecca for three terms after J.O. McClurkan’s death. Her parents, Nathan and Ozella Hardy, managed Trevecca’s farm, which employed students and supplied food to the college. She was a loyal alumna and a member of First Church of the Nazarene in Nashville. Trevecca’s Hardy Alumni Center was named in honor of the Hardy family through Eleanor’s generous donation to the University.

Evelyn Louise Spruill (’44) of Nashville, Tenn., Jan. 20, 2018. Evelyn Spruill enjoyed gardening, both flowers and vegetables as well as cooking, quilting and working puzzles. A devoted grandmother, she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren.

James D. Taylor (’52) of Chaplin, S.C., Feb. 17, 2018. Jimmy (Buddy) served in the U.S. Army. He earned a master’s degree in divinity at Nazarene Theological Seminary and a master’s in education from South Carolina State. He was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Divinity from Trevecca Nazarene University. A pastor of churches in Ohio, South Carolina, Virginia and Georgia, Jimmy also served as a missionary in Papua New Guinea, Trinidad and Tobago, Belize and Dominica.

Betty Elaine Slonecker (’56) of Columbia, Tenn., Sept. 16, 2017.

Betty was a woman of faith, love and forgiveness, and the way she lived her life impacted countless lives for the kingdom. While her husband was in medical school, Betty taught fifth and sixth grade in Memphis, Tenn. She also worked in the insurance department at Baptist Hospital before retiring. Betty was actively involved with the ministries of her church.

Joseph Jones (’56) of Fort Mill, S.C., July 18, 2017. Everyone who met Joe will remember his one-of-a-kind, contagious laugh and sense of humor. Indian Springs Holiness Camp meeting was always the highlight of his summers and was fittingly in session at the time of his death. Joe also attended Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City.

Doris Nelzene “Nell” Edmonds Wofford (’58) of Albertville, Ala., Oct. 27, 2017. Doris was a member of the Nazarene church for more than 70 years. During that time she served the church by playing piano, teaching Sunday school, serving as the missionary president, teaching courses on books of the Bible and cooking thousands of homemade rolls for church dinners. For 20 years, she taught elementary school in Tennessee, Mississippi and Alabama.

Rev. Harold D. Hughes (’58) of Nashville, Tenn., Oct. 20, 2017.

Harold was a minister in the Church of the Nazarene for many years before his retirement.

James Roy Fuller (’59) of Prattsville, Ala., Jan.30, 2018. Roy was a minister in the Church of the Nazarene for 58 years, serving as the pastor of churches in Fort Walton Beach and Panama City, Fla., and Gadsden, Ala. In 1997, he received an honorary Doctor of Divinity from Trevecca. He served as District Superintendent for 39 years on four districts: Italy, Quebec, Pittsburgh and Alabama South.

Juanita Berry (’63) of Lakeland, Fla., Jan. 7, 2018. Juanita was a retired elementary school teacher who primarily taught in the Metro Nashville and Polk County School systems. She was a member of Lake Gibson Nazarene Church where she sang in the choir for many years.

She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Melba Jean Robbins Clark (’61) of Decatur, Ala., Jan. 16, 2018. Melba Jean was a lifelong member of the Church of the Nazarene. She served faithfully for many years as a Sunday school teacher and Bible quiz leader. In addition, she also served as the Alabama District Bible Quiz director for many years. She enjoyed sewing, quilting and crocheting.

Virginia Baldyga Powell of Nashville, Tenn., Oct. 13, 2017. Virginia graduated from Stratford High School and attended Trevecca Nazarene University. She was a proud member of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority– Torch Bearer Chapter and a long-time member of Tulip Street Methodist Church. She retired from a career with Pinnacle Bank.

Jean B. Inman (’66) of Franklin, Tenn., Oct. 30, 2017. Jean taught kindergarten in the Metro Nashville Public School system for 25 years.

She was also a member of the Church of the City in Franklin, Tenn., where she taught a ladies Sunday school class for many years.

Betty Bagwell (’67) of Charlotte, N.C., Nov. 10, 2017. Betty enjoyed a long career as a second grade teacher in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg County School District. She dedicated much of her life to serving others.

Rev. Timothy R. Lee (’84) of Massillon, Ohio, Sept. 9, 2017. Tim earned a master’s degree in religious education from Nazarene Theological Seminary and pastored Nazarene churches in Florida, Georgia and Ohio. At the time of his death, Tim was pastoring the Church of the Nazarene in Clinton, Ohio. Tim had a love for farming and gardening and enjoyed sharing his crops with others. He shared a love for Cleveland sports with his sons, but always cheered for his Tennessee Titans and Volunteers.

Kenneth Paul Baker (’99) of Nashville, Tenn., Jan. 25, 2018. Kenny was the Founder of Behavioral Treatment Providers (BTP) which helped facilitate change in the lives of thousands of Nashvillians though programs that addressed alcohol and drug abuse, anger management, domestic violence, under-age drinking and shoplifting.

He was also the program manager for the John School, a program for first-time offenders arrested for soliciting prostitution. Kenny pursued songwriting, playing and singing, recording two albums he created with his father-in-law Bob Morrison.

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IN MEMORIAM RUTH POOLE

IN MEMORIAM BARBARA REED

Ruth Winfred Lewis Poole, Trevecca’s oldest living alumni, passed away on Jan. 20, 2018. She was 101.

Barbara Jean Reed, wife of former Trevecca Nazarene University president Dr. Millard Reed, passed away on Nov. 23, 2017, after an extended illness.

Born in Alderson, West Virginia, Ruth grew up on the 400-acre Lewis family farm, learning hard work at an young age. The only daughter of Ira Newton and Lena Mae Clark Lewis, she lost a sister in infancy.

Reed served the University alongside her husband during his tenure as president, 1991-2005.

A lifelong learner, Ruth continued her education at Trevecca Nazarene College in 1933. A 1935 graduate, she also met her husband, John D. Poole (J.D.), an aspiring minister from Paris, Tenn., during her studies. They married in 1935 and accepted their first pastorate in Hanford, Calif., following J.D.’s graduation.

The Pooles served several churches in California before returning to Ruth’s home state of West Virginia in 1941. After serving congregations in Spencer and Wheeling, West Virginia, the Poole family moved to New Philadelphia, Ohio in 1945. Their ministry flourished, with Ruth serving as a Sunday school teacher, piano player and mother figure to many in their congregation.

While in New Philadelphia, Ruth enrolled at Youngstown State University, earning a degree in education. For nearly 20 years, she taught elementary school, teaching in New Philadelphia, Youngstown and Indian Valley. She continued teaching and substituting in the public school system after J.D.’s retirement and a move back to Alderson, West Virginia, in 1974.

Following J.D.’s death in 1995, Ruth returned to Nashville in 1998.

While living in Trevecca Towers, she audited religion classes at Trevecca and became a fixture at the University’s sporting events, wearing all purple. Her enthusiastic support made an impact on the student athletes as well as the coaches and staff.

“Ruth Poole is one of those faces you don’t forget,” said Greg Ruff, director of sports information. “She was often seen walking to and from the games on campus donned in purple regalia. Seeing her cheering alongside her son, Wendell, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren always brought a smile. Hers is an excellent Trevecca story and a real legacy of supporting the Purple and the White.”

“The Reed Family, Nashville First Church of the Nazarene, Trevecca Nazarene University and the Kingdom of God have lost a precious lady’s earthly presence but Heaven has gained this creative and influential woman of faith,” the Reed family said in a statement. “In our grief, we rejoice in Barbara’s wholeness and health in the heavenly kingdom.”

Upon the announcement of Barbara’s death on the University’s social media accounts, Trevecca alumni shared memories.

“Mrs. Reed is one of the most delightful and caring people I’ve ever met,” wrote Laura Jenkins Herrick. “As First Lady it was apparent how much she loved being around students and genuinely cared for each of us. She and Dr. Reed made Trevecca my home. They are so loved!

Thank you will never be enough for that.”

Reed was preceded in death by her husband; her parents, P.H. and Sadie Cunningham; and her only sister, Shirley Todd. She is survived by her children Stephen (Diane) Reed, Deborah Reed, Paul (Lisa) Reed and John (Heather) Reed; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Reed was a member for 43 years of Nashville First Church of the Nazarene, where her husband served as the pastor from 1974-1991.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that gifts be made to the Dr. Millard and Barbara Reed Scholarship Fund at Trevecca Nazarene University. Checks may be made payable to Trevecca with Barbara Reed Memorial written on the memo line. Gifts may also be made online at www.trevecca.edu/give.

Ruth is survived by two sons, John David Poole Jr. (Nancy) and Wendell Lewis Poole (Jo Ann), six grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. A celebration of life service was held at Trevecca Community Church on Jan. 24.

S H A R E YO U R N E W S W I T H U S !

29 TREVECCAN

From career achievements to new baby announcements, we want to celebrate with you.

We also want to remember treasured Trevecca family members who have passed away, yet left their mark on our hearts. Share your news with us by emailing Treveccan@ Trevecca.edu or mailing the information to Mandy Crow, Treveccan editor, at 333 Murfreesboro Road, Nashville, TN 37210-2877.

POSTSCRIPT

“Spring is the time of plans and projects.”

— L E O TO L STOY

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www.trevecca.edu

USPS No. 394470

Treveccan

The Magazine of Trevecca Nazarene University

SPRING 2018

| Thursday, May 24

8:30 a.m. Shotgun 18-hole, 4-person Scramble

Friday, May 25

8 a.m. Shotgun Stroke Play on Friday, May 25

Registration: $175 before May 15 ($75 of this price is tax-deductible). $200 after May 15, 2018.

Hole sponsorship:

• $100 for non-player or $75 for player • Entry fee and hole sponsorship: $250 ($150 of this price is tax-deductible)

Learn more and register at www.trevecca.edu/golfclassic.