NEW SPACE FOR ENGINEERING ● BSM CELEBR ATES 100 YE ARS
B I G P I C T U R E |S c i e n c e s t u d e n t s h ave f un b e t we e n e x p e r i m e n t s d ur i n g a r e c e n t S c i e n c e S at ur d ay. T h e h a n d s - o n d ay i s d e s i g n e d to l e t yo un g p e o p l e a n d t h e i r fa m i l i e s e n g a g e w i t h s c i e n c e i n f un a n d e xc i t i n g way s .
UMHBLIFE S U M M E R 2 02 0 | V O L U M E 4 0, N U M B ER 3 PRESIDENT Randy O’Rear, Ed.D. EDITOR-IN- CHIEF Paula Price Tanner, Ed.D. EDITOR Christi Mays GR APHIC DESIGNER Lauren Mendias PHOTOGR APHERS Blair Dupre ’18 Steven Neaves Randy Yandell ’99 CONTRIBUTOR James Stafford UMHB LIFE IS PUBLISHED THREE TIMES A YEAR BY THE DIVISION OF COMMUNICATIONS AND SPECIAL PROJECTS. UMHB Box 8431 900 College Street Belton, Texas 76513 1-800-727-UMHB umhb.edu/life
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UMHBLIFE S U M M E R 2 0 2 0 | VOLUME 4 0, NUMBER 3
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4 | C A M P US L I F E BSM celebrates 100 years of faithfulness on campus this year. 6 | AT H L E T I C L I F E
F E A T U R E S G O I N G T H E D I S TA N C E |8 Faculty, staff, and students show resilience during unprecedented times.
Women’s basketball ends abruptly after winning their first-ever ASC tournament championship.
G R OW I N G R O O M |14 The Engineering Design Building provides exciting new opportunities for the university’s burgeoning engineering program.
22 | A LU M N I L I F E Even after cheating death twice overseas, Adrienne Evans-Quickley makes it her mission to help ‘make things easier’ for those serving.
W H AT I S B E AU T Y ? |18 Panelists explore the the concept of beauty and why it’s so difficult to define.
O N T H E COV E R | S o p h o m o r e G a r r e t t Wa i n w r i g h t works on his class assignments from the comfor t of his apar tment d u r i n g t h e “ St ay H o m e , St ay H e a l t hy ” d i r e c t i v e .
Photo by Blair Dupre '18
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From left, Christan Hammonds ‘99, Alumni Board Member Ashley Klepac-Smith ‘03, Jessica Klepac ’05, and Sara Skaggs ’03 visit during the 175th Anniversary Dinner. Below, Karolyn Whitis ’68 joined alongside all other graduates to sing “Up With the Purple” during the candle-lighting ceremony.
UMHB kicks off 175th anniversary alumni dinner UMHB kicked off a year of celebrations Feb. 1 with an alumni dinner commemorating the 175th anniversary of the signing of the school’s charter by the Republic of Texas. The event was well attended, with the oldest guest coming from the class of 1949 and the youngest having just celebrated graduation in the fall of 2019. “We see what has been built and what is yet to come,” said Julia Walker, class of 1960. “We have come to set alight the birthday candles of our school and to bring to Mary HardinBaylor a birthday gift, our pledge of love and loyalty to all she stands for and means to us.” The evening began with several special recognitions. Belton Mayor Marion Grayson declared Feb. 1, 2020,
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to be “University of Mary HardinBaylor Day in Belton.” Representative Hugh Shine read a proclamation from the Texas State House of Representatives, commemorating the university’s milestone anniversary. Texas Senator Dawn Buckingham sent a proclamation from the Senate and a flag that had flown over the state capital. The dinner was served “familystyle” as a nod back to the days when the family-style meals in the Hardy Hall dining room were used as opportunities not only for eating but also for the students to practice proper meal-time etiquette. Following the meal, the vocal ensemble OneVoice performed a selection of music from UMHB’s early years. The evening concluded with a
traditional candle-lighting ceremony led by Julia Walker and Beth Norvell, associate director of alumni relations and museum. “The living flame that lights this candle was kindled 175 years ago at Old Independence and is cherished in the hearts of thousands of young men and women who have gone from her portals to take their places in the world,” Norvell said. “We know that many men and women the world over are lighting candles with us,” Walker said. “The light from some falls on white heads and trembling hands. The light from others shines on the faces of others who have only been away for a few months. Wherever they are, they join us as links in this chain of living light, encircling the whole world.” As guests made their way home, they were treated to the sound of the uppermost bell in the school’s Luther Memorial tolling 175 times, to mark the 175 years of UMHB’s history. The bell, known as the “Belton Bell,” was originally hung in Luther Hall; today it is only rung on special occasions. Alumni who were not able to attend the dinner are encouraged to participate by going online to umhb. edu/175, where they will be able to “check in” and share their anniversary greetings with alumni around the world.
Sharing the story of Jesus Students find unique way to continue Easter Pageant tradition
For 80 years, UMHB has held its annual Easter Pageant. Regardless of weather or conditions, it is a tradition that has never been canceled. Not surprisingly, this year’s 81st Annual Easter Pageant continued, but not as “usual.” When it became clear that COVID-19 was going to make a traditional pageant impossible, students began brainstorming how, rather than cancel the event, they could make it extraordinary. It was decided that this year’s pageant would be edited together to feature both footage from past productions and testimonials from people who have been involved with the pageant over the years. A special production of the pageant was livestreamed Wednesday, April 8. “When we first learned we couldn’t go through with the usual pageant, we all cried together,” said Mike
McCarthy, dean of student leadership and engagement. “Then, after a day or so, we realized that Easter Pageant isn’t about us. We submitted to the fact that it is His story, and just because we don’t get to choose exactly how we tell it doesn’t mean that we should give up telling it.” The week before the pageant, UMHB posted a video inviting anyone who had ever taken part in Easter Pageant to submit stories about their experiences. “We didn’t want this tradition that has gone on for 80 years to just not happen,” said Precious Anselm, this year’s Easter Pageant director. “It was clear that the Lord was doing something here. He had a plan that was bigger than mine.” McCarthy said that sharing the story of Christ comes from the “overflow of our hearts.”
“He has changed our lives so completely that we can’t help but share His story,” he added. “In the case of the Easter Pageant, we have 300plus college students who show up with one purpose—to share the gospel of Christ with the world.” Even though the Coronavirus forced many other area events and shows to cancel, McCarthy said they trusted that God would work something out so the show could go on. “I don’t think we ever considered canceling an option,” he said. “For years, I have told students that there is no ‘Plan B’ for Easter pageant—no matter what happens, we are going to show up and share his story. This year was no different.” To watch this year’s Easter Pageant Experience, visit the event’s official website: umhb.edu/easter-pageant.
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BSM celebrates 100 years on campus This year, the Baptist Student Ministry is celebrating its 100th year on the UMHB campus—a century of transforming students’ lives through mission opportunities, discipleship, and evangelism. “It’s hard to quantify the impact the BSM has had over this last century here,” said Director Daniel McAfee. “Countless students have gone on their first mission trips, learned to share their faith, and come to know Jesus through the ministry and work of this organization. Clearly, the BSM has made a big impact on a lot of people’s lives here.” For some, being involved with the BSM changed their lives completely, and for others, the ministry has helped spur them on to a life in ministry. “There’s a hundred years’ worth of faithfulness that has been at work here, and it’s an exciting time,” said
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McAfee, who stepped into the role as leader last August. He replaced Dr. Shawn Shannon, who had served in that position for 18 years.
“There’s a hundred years’ worth of faithfulness that has been at work here, and it’s an exciting time.” —Daniel McAfee, BSM Director UMHB was one of the first schools to host a student-led Baptist Student Union (what the BSM was originally called before the name changed in 1994). According to historical documents, during a meeting of the Texas Baptist General Convention (TBGC) in 1919,
the executive board was instructed to begin an all-inclusive religious organization involving college students. “Baptist schools and some state schools had a simultaneous desire to have a Baptist witness on Texas campuses,” Shannon explained. Dr. Joseph P. Boone, who was the TBGC student secretary in 1919, was charged with finding campuses to use as a pilot program. “The more I learn about UMHB’s role in the beginnings of the BSM as a whole, the more acutely aware I become that the leaders and students of the BSM are standing on the shoulders of so many men and women who have come before us,” McAfee said. “Their faithfulness and sacrifice are an inspiration as we plan and dream for the next 100 years of the BSM at UMHB.”
A home away from home Stribling and Burt celebrate 100 years of history this year One hundred years ago this year, two men with a passion for Christian education helped build two iconic residence halls that have served as a “home away from home” to thousands of women getting their education over the last century. Stribling Hall and Burt Hall celebrate 100 years on campus this year and offer up some rich history as two of the oldest buildings on campus, along with the Wells Hall academic building, which also marks its 100th year on campus this year. Stribling Hall is named for Ruth Stribling, who came to Baylor College in 1908 at the age of 14 and remained for five years. In honor of Ruth and her time spent at UMHB, her father, J.C. Stribling, donated $50,000 to help build the new hall. On March 20, 1920, ground was broken to erect the three-story, red-bricked, white-columned hall, which was built as a companion to Ely-Pepper Hall. Stribling Hall was intended to house up to 185 students. Each of its rooms were designed for two students and fitted with lavatories and closets. The residence hall was the second permanent dormitory in the Cottage Home System and one of the most modern in the South. With fall enrollment increasing to 400 students, construction was fasttracked to complete the building by
the beginning of the fall term in September, and students began occupying it the following semester. Burt Hall was also built that year, thanks to a $100,000 gift from Mr. R.E. Burt, who was blessed with great wealth and had a heart for Christian causes, including education and missions. Burt Hall was built with 100 rooms with connecting baths. Each room had a dressing room with individual dressing tables, a lavatory, fulllength mirror, a living area with two single beds, a study table, and chairs.
Both residence halls were built to be entirely fireproof. With the erection of the two residence halls in 1920, the college now had nine permanent buildings of brick, stone, or concrete on an estate of 375 acres, which also included a laundry, creamery, dairy, book store, and post office—making a total value of $1 million. Stribling Hall (top) and Burt Hall celebrate 100 years on campus this year and offer up some rich history as two of the oldest buildings on campus, along with Wells Hall, which also marks its 100th year on campus this year.
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A bittersweet end to a record-breaking season Women’s Basketball takes third consecutive American Southwest Conference West Division title The timing of the COVID-19 closures couldn’t come at a worse time for the UMHB women’s basketball team. The need for safety precautions abruptly ended their record-breaking year in which the team had won its third consecutive American Southwest Conference West Division title, won the program’s first-ever ASC tournament championship, finished with the highest national ranking in program history, and made its secondstraight NCAA Sweet 16 appearance. “Even though we finished the season under unique circumstances, it was a great season,” said Mark Morefield, head women’s basketball coach. The Cru women went 26-4 this season and had advanced to
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the sectional round of the NCAA Division III National Championships for the second consecutive year before the tournament was canceled due to COVID-19 concerns. In early March, the NCAA canceled all remaining winter and spring NCAA championships due to the evolving pandemic. “Once I found out after our Thursday practice that the game was canceled, I thought about our seniors,” said Morefield, who has been at UMHB since 2015. “Hannah Holt had just ended her career with a knee injury the week before, and now our three other seniors were ending their careers in a way they had no control over. It was especially hard for Kendall Rollins and Alicia Blackwell, who had been key
The UMHB women’s basketball team won its first American Southwest Conference Championship by edging out Hardin-Simmons University 6058, which earned the team a second straight trip to the NCAA Division III National Championships. After its first tournament win against Austin College, the team was set to play its second game when the season was canceled due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
players since their freshman year. To find the right words to say to those two was very challenging. The whole team was hurting that night. They had worked so hard for this opportunity.” The team posted the highest final national rankings in the Division III era of the program when polls were released the first week in April. The Cru finished the season ranked ninth in the country in the D3hoops.com Top 25 and 10th in the nation in the WBCA Top 25 Poll. Undefeated Hope College was the pick for the top spot in both polls. “The one thing that stood out about this season was we had so much experience returning compared to past teams,” Morefield said. “Along with experience, this team had a tremendous amount of grit and determination. To finish the season on an 11-game winning streak and to have only two of those wins at home speaks volumes about the makeup of this season’s team.”
Delivering an electric program Acrobatics & Tumbling team has rewarding debut year, despite being cut short Even though the competitive season was much shorter than planned due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the new UMHB Acrobatics & Tumbling program had a deeply rewarding year. The team, which has been training since late August, got to participate in two meets—the last of which they won against East Texas Baptist University in February. “Our athletes were ecstatic in recording our first win in program history!” said Acrobatics & Tumbling Head Coach Courtney Pate. “We try to prepare them to expect the unexpected throughout the duration of each meet. With 19-plus heats, a lot can happen during a meet. Our athletes went into the meet ready to compete in all aspects of the word with strong mentalities, and on that day, we were able to clench a win!” Pate said the acrobatics and tumbling team was brought together from various disciplines of gymnastics, competitive cheerleading, and power tumbling, and each athlete was able to use her unique past experiences in order to create something brand new. “When 20-plus athletes are brought together, having various athletic backgrounds, there is always an underlying chance that there will be push back as to how well the team will work together,” Pate said. “However, from day one, our athletes were
held to very high standards outside of on-the-mat training, with their study hall requirements, weight lifting, and miscellaneous tasks our staff asked of them.” She said their willingness to believe in a new program also made the year a success. “Their faith in the overall picture of establishing a new program is personally one of my favorite aspects of this year,” Pate said. “I also believe that the excitement and curiosity of our entire campus for this first season made the atmosphere surrounding our program electric.” Skill-wise and on the mat, the athletes grew and excelled tremendously in the acro event throughout the year, Pate added, while their execution in the tumbling and team event was impeccably clean. “I could not be prouder of the work each and every one of them put forth this year,” she said. “They could have chosen to not believe in the process,
but I am so grateful that they had faith in order to see the fruition of the season, even if was shorter than we hoped for!” She said the team is looking forward to building on the experience they gained from this season. “We are excited to combine the talent, culture, and pride of our veteran athletes with the potential of our incoming class of student-athletes,” she said. When the season abruptly ended, the team was devastated, to say the least. “They were initially shocked, followed by confusion, frustration, and overwhelming disappointment from high hopes,” Pate said. “However, the steps taken this spring were necessary, and as a whole, we trusted our administration at all levels during that time. This situation allows us to be hopeful and be incredibly excited for next season!”
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GOING THE DISTANCE University community moves swiftly to shift classes online when COVID-19 forces students to shelter at home. BY CHRISTI MAYS
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ebekah Proctor spent her entire four years at On March 23, all UMHB instruction shifted to online UMHB trying to avoid taking online classes. learning for the remainder of the semester. UMHB had But thanks to the coronavirus, the senior interlet out for Spring Break just two weeks prior when it national business major found herself doing exactly that became swiftly evident that the virus was spreading rapin the last six weeks of her college career. idly in the United States and that schools and businesses “From K through 12, I was home schooled, so doing would have to close. homework on the computer and Dr. Susan Wegmann, associate dean by myself is something I’ve done of digital learning and innovation, was frequently,” she said. “I tried in Florida for Spring Break when she to avoid online classes because received the call from Dr. John Vassar, college gave me an opportunity provost and senior vice president for to really experience the social inacademic affairs, who was in Chicago. teractions of a classroom. I loved “We knew from the news that getting to know my professors something was happening, and we and learning in groups with my needed to get our ducks in a row,” classmates.” Wegmann said. Both were flying back Sitting with her laptop in her to Texas on Saturday, and within an — parent’s home in Fairfield, Texas, hour of getting home, Wegmann was Dr. John Vassar she lamented that she wasn’t already back on campus working on a Provost and Senior Vice President going to finish off her UMHB plan. for Academic Affairs experience with her friends from “We decided that Dr. Wegmann and
”We haven’t been preparing for this moment for a few days; we’ve been preparing for years.”
the last four years or experience senior traditions such as the candle-lighting ceremony and graduation. Her study abroad trips to Peru and Singapore also were canceled. Even though the semester didn’t end the way she envisioned—and knowing many other fellow students were feeling just as melancholy about the situation COVID-19 created around the world—she continued to cheer on her fellow students from afar through her Facebook posts: “We can do this! We can get through this time together! We can make this time less gloomy than it needs to be by rallying together.”
her team would put together a plan to rapidly train faculty for online instruction,” Vassar said. The decision was made to extend Spring Break for students for an extra week to formulate and execute a plan: to train over 400 faculty members and adjunct teachers how to move their 1,077 classes online. The next day, Wegmann and her team of instructional designers went to work, along with administrators, deans, and the Information Technology team. On Monday morning, the team of five instructional designers started training sessions to show faculty how to create an online curriculum and teach solely through
Rebekah Proctor gets help on a class assisgnment from her furry friend Arwen. F E A T U R E S
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Dr. Matthew Rupe and Dr. Susan Wegmann, (right), help adjunct faculty member Sylvia White set up her online classes.
technology. “We basically taught them how to become online instructors overnight,” Wegmann said, explaining that typically the process of rewriting a face-to-face classroom curriculum takes an entire semester to set up. UMHB instructors had five days. “A lot of professors were terrified at first,” Wegmann said. “I heard one of the adjuncts say, ‘I’ve avoided online teaching for nine years, and now, I’m face-to-face with it.’ But she had a great attitude. They all just said, ‘OK, we’re going to do this. Lead the way!’” Fortunately, Wegmann and her team had been keeping an eye on the situation with the virus prior to Spring Break and began having preliminary conversations about possibly having to move classes online. Vassar said UMHB was also fortunate to have the infrastructure in place to allow for the transition to online instruction. “We haven’t been preparing for this moment for a few days; we’ve been preparing for years,” Vassar said, explaining that his predecessor, Dr. Steve Oldham, started what is now the Center for Digital Learning in 2015. The CDL has worked with faculty, training them to set up their classes in the Canvas Learning Management System, which creates an “online shell” for every face-toface course. “The decision of the university to invest in online learning was prescient and has helped us in this transition tremendously,” Vassar said.
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When the process of training faculty to move their courses online began, Wegmann said her first message to them was, “‘We’re not going to give you anything new to use; you’re just going to use what you have.’ I told them it was going to be different, but not hugely insurmountable.” Wegmann, who has written graduate and undergraduate courses and taught online classes for more than 20 years, decided early on that the most crucial way she could help faculty was to provide structure, but within the structure, allow them freedom. Many of the faculty, who had never created online courses, realized the intense amount of work involved in being an online professor; however, Wegmann said the overall tone of the faculty remained positive throughout that week. Dr. Patrick Jaska, a professor of business systems in the McLane College of Business, said the transition has “given him a new perspective on teaching online.” “I have enjoyed it in some respects, but I would rather be teaching face-to-face,” said Jaska, who, along with all other professors, is working from home due to the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” directive from county officials. His students seem to be doing well, for the most part, he said. He, on the other hand, has his work station set up a little too close to the kitchen. “I bet I have gained 10 pounds!” he laughed.
CRUcial Steps Many other departments and staff members helped in the transition to online learning: • The music department purchased at least 10 electronic keyboards to send home with students in piano classes who didn’t have pianos at home to practice.
Krystal Rangel and Ashley Guthrie from Housekeeping patrol campus daily to make sure everything is germ-free.
To help lighten the stress during the first few weeks of online learning, Wegmann encouraged professors, who were working from home, to post funny pictures of their pets trying to help them teach or of the creative workstations they have set up. Dr. Amy Mersiovsky, an assistant professor of nursing, broadcasted a live Zoom meeting to her students from her rabbit barn where she raises show rabbits. “We joked that it was ‘Dr. M. live from the bunny barn!’” she said. Mersiovsky, who describes herself as a “calm person,” has tried to keep her online courses relaxed throughout this stressful situation. “My top priority was to keep my students calm and informed,” she said. “My second priority was to coordinate my team to redesign our lessons and make the assignments for the students meaningful.” She also had to be inventive. Realizing early in the week that she was no longer able to take her Health Care Delivery 2 students to the simulation hospital to review abdominal assessments, procedures, and tubes, she came up with a low-tech improvisation. Years ago, on a Facebook ad, she had seen an apron depicting the chest cavity and abdominal organs sewed on with various-colored fabrics. “When I began to plan what I could do to still teach
• Information Technology worked to get students laptops if they didn’t have them at home. • Librarians worked hard to keep the library open to ensure access to computers for students who didn’t have them. • The Campus Store worked with textbook publishing companies to put their textbooks online for free for the rest of the semester. • Staff members called students regularly to check on them. The goal was to call each student at least once a week to ensure they were doing well. • Essential staff members also continued to provide support on campus. Groups who remained on campus performing work that could not shift to a remote mode included Information Technology, Campus Police, Mail Services, Resident Directors, and the Physical Plant staff. To keep the campus safe for essential workers, the Housekeeping staff assigned special crews to disinfect campus buildings daily (above), and hand sanitizing stations were set up at the entrances to all campus bulidings.
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my students in a visual manner that was accurate, I remembered the apron was in my office. So I affixed it to a poster board, and I conducted the review!” For student Garrett Wainwright, switching to online classes came with a little bit of a learning curve. Without the built-in structure of scheduled face-to-face classes, he found it challenging to maintain motivation to get schoolwork done early. “I dislike change, especially when it happens fast,” said the sophomore, who is majoring in biology prehealth professions. He was one of only 154 students who opted to stay on campus during the pandemic. “Even though I am a fairly extroverted person, I have found that being isolated has been nice for collecting my thoughts and thinking introspectively,” he said. “I have been able to enjoy being by myself and simply going about the day.” For doctoral student Dottie Jones ‘88, these months have not been so quiet. In addition to keeping up with her online classes, the nurse practitioner has been on the front line fighting COVID-19. “I know there are many UMHB graduates fighting to keep our world safe,” she said. “The reality of what we are being asked to do hits hard.”
Dottie, who is currently working to complete her EdD degree, said 30 years in the medical field had not prepared her for what she has had to face in the last few months. “I have realized that my time at UMHB has done more than just prepare me for a career with simple knowledge and skills,” she said. “Education and faith go hand-in-hand at UMHB. I’m thankful that I have not only received a valuable education but something even more eternal—a body of believers who invested their lives into mine. UMHB nurtured my faith, and my faith is what sustains me now.” UMHB President Dr. Randy O’Rear said he is inspired by how the UMHB faculty, staff, and students have reacted to the need to move classes online during the pandemic. “I am so grateful for the work we have accomplished in seeking innovative ways to continue serving our students in the midst of such great disruption,” he said. “Thanks to God’s provision and great teamwork, we will move past our current challenges. I could not be more proud of our faculty, staff, and students. There’s not another campus I would rather be going through this with than our UMHB family.”
Student Garrett Wainwright works on his classes online in his campus apartment.
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“We are proud of you!” As the May 9 date for Spring Commencement drew near, it became clear that the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” directive would make it impossible to hold the traditional graduation ceremony in Crusader Stadium as planned. Knowing that the graduates would be disappointed to have this milestone event postponed, President O’Rear wanted to do something special for the new graduates, to congratulate them, encourage them, and recognize their achievements. O’Rear delived an encouraging and inspirational message to the graduating class as a video message that was sent to each of the graduates on May 8. His message was as follows. Congratulations, Class of 2020! I wanted to reach out to you to let you know how proud Julie and I and the faculty and staff are of you as you have completed your studies at UMHB. This isn’t the way I hoped that I would be speaking to you. My desire was to have you and your family and friends that have supported you on this journey gathered together in Crusader Stadium to celebrate your accomplishments. Even though we couldn’t be physically together, your university family didn’t want to miss an opportunity to say congratulations! This Spring semester was unprecedented. We’ve never seen anything like this in our lifetime. Your UMHB family watched with pride as you persevered, adapted to change, and demonstrated amazing strength. Who would have known that in your final semester you were going to receive the ultimate test – a test that proved you can handle the challenges and unpredictability of life? I shouldn’t be surprised by how well your class handled the major disruption this Spring. When many of you arrived on campus as freshmen, you had to be flexible from day one as you were faced with one of the rainiest and most disruptive move-in days in UMHB history. I’m sure you remember that too. I find it interesting that your time at UMHB began with you having to weather a great storm and ended with you overcoming
the challenges of a pandemic. Clearly, God has big plans for you. The challenges this semester presented to our undergraduate students extends to our graduate students as well. You chose to continue your education knowing the sacrifice and time required to earn your degree. Many of you have continued to work full-time jobs and raise families in the midst of rigorous graduate studies. I know none of you anticipated the added challenges this semester would bring, but you persisted and finished strong. Your UMHB family is proud of your accomplishments, and I am confident your hard work and dedication will pay off. Class of 2020, as you now begin your careers or graduate studies, use what you have learned, not only through this spring semester but over your time at UMHB to show this world your toughness and determination. Julie and I and your UMHB family commend you for all of your hard work and dedication. We couldn’t be more proud of you. May God Bless you and keep you safe and well. You are now part of the alumni family, so please come back and visit us soon. Go Cru! Dr. Randy O’Rear speaks to graduates from a silent Crusader Stadium on May 8.
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GROWING ROOM
Engineering Design Building offers new spaces for learning and collaboration. BY PAULA PRICE TANNER
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n the outside, the long metal building looks like a well-kept warehouse, with attractive shrubs and ornamental trees planted near its entrance. But the smattering of cars parked nearby and a steady stream of students going in and out indicate this is more than a quiet storage facility. Something is going on here. A step through the entrance doors reveals a complex of areas that are buzzing with activity. Large glass windows between rooms and along the central hallway make it possible to see students engaged in all aspects of their studies, from listening to lectures and working in small groups to using computer modeling
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programs to design and test engineering solutions. This is UMHB’s Engineering Design Building—a newly repurposed facility designed to provide growing space for the university’s burgeoning engineering program. Engineering is a relatively recent addition to the university’s degree offerings. In 2010, UMHB entered into an articulation agreement with Baylor University to offer core curriculum and pre-engineering courses that would prepare UMHB students to complete degrees in electrical or mechanical engineering at Baylor. Response to the pilot program was good, and administrators soon realized that there was a high demand
square footage needed, and with the addition of interior walls and equipment in 2019, the “It’s been cool to Engineering Design Building was born. The 12,610-square-foot space has been see the progress, developed with the features of a modern not just of the engineering program in mind. All engineering engineering program, students at UMHB learn to use industry-standard design software such as SolidWorks and but also of the AutoCAD. They also learn to use LabVIEW, a building being built.” simulation program designed to teach stu— dents principles of physics, digital electronics, Senior Molly Rodeffer and control of engineering hardware such as drones and robots. Since so much class work is done on computers, it is important for the facility to include a computer lab that can accommodate an entire class of students at one time. for engineering education. In 2016, the university The new computer lab offers 36 computers loaded expanded the pre-engineering program into a full with the needed design and simulation software, plus four-year engineering degree. Forty students enrolled four state-of-the-art 3D printers where students can that first year, and three years later there are 110 print out prototypes of their designs. students in the program. The four classrooms in the building are equipped As its numbers swelled, the program outgrew the with “smart boards” that allow professors and students rooms initially allotted to it in the C.J. (Red) Davidson to write out equations with their index fingers, disBuilding. Administrators decided the best way to support the expanding program would be to add laboratory, workshop, and classroom spaces where students could design and build the projects required in their upper level courses. They found that an empty building on the north end of the campus could provide the
Opposite page: The new workshop offers plenty of tools and space for students to build prototypes of their engineering designs. The computer lab (above) includes 36 stations equipped with AutoCAD and SolidWorks design software.
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play diagrams and photos, or switch to an Internet site with just the touch of an icon on the screen. The classrooms are equipped with rolling tables and chairs that can be changed from a forward-facing configuration for lectures to set-ups for round-table discussions or small group work, all in a matter of minutes. The rooms are also equipped with rolling whiteboards that can be used to provide additional board space for students to write out their lengthy mathematical solutions to homework problems or in-class assignments. The facility includes an electronics lab fitted with wrap-around cabinets and counters. The room provides a work area for students taking classes in Electric Circuits, Electronics, and System Dynamics and Controls, plus ample storage for electronic test equipment and the zillions of components students need to build electrical circuits. The true “wow” factor in the building, though, is a massive metal/wood/plastics workshop equipped with power tools, a laser cutter, welding equipment, and a painting station complete with vent hood. A large caged area in the space holds portable tools that students may check out to build their projects, and the facility offers plenty of countertops and open floor space for students to work singly or in groups. Huge garage doors in the back corner allow students to build large projects and then move them outdoors for transportation elsewhere. The spaciousness of the building is a welcome
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change for the students. “We can spread out in this building,” says senior Aaron Garland. “Our projects in our capstone design class require space to work with lasers and a bunch of different components, so it is nice to have our own areas and not be on top of one another.” The upper-level engineering classes are all taught in the new facility, so the junior and senior students spend a lot of time there. The front lobby has been designed to do double-duty as a student lounge where students can eat lunch and study. “I like that we can do work in the front lobby,” says Jonathan Rosales. “Even when the classrooms are locked up, we can still work there. The Wi-Fi access in the lobby allows us to use our laptops, and the coffee machine
there helps us stay awake.” “There’s definitely more comradery in this building than we had when we were in the Davidson building all day,” adds Richard Rogers. “Having a building of our own has challenged me to do a better job of meeting people. I didn’t usually talk to Jonathan before this semester, despite the fact that we had all of these classes together. Now we are good friends. It really does help that you can easily go after class to get food with someone before the next one starts. And there are plenty of parking spaces!” Senior Molly Rodeffer summarizes the impact of the new facility well. “It’s been cool to see the progress, not just of the engineering program, but also of the building being built,“ she says. “Initially, I was
planning to go to UMHB for about three years and then transfer to another school to finish my degree. It’s been a real blessing to be able to stay, to see how much the program has grown and how it has culminated in getting to take classes in these great new facilities.” Clockwise, from opposite page, top: Students work in teams in the computer lab; a welding station in the workshop offers new fabrication possibilities; Dr. Paul Griesemer uses a graph on the smartboard to explain an algorithm; seniors demonstrate their capstone design project; and students share how they calculated solutions to problems in their Engineering Mechanics: Dynamics class.
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What is
Beauty ? Panelists explore why beauty is so difficult to define. BY CHRISTI MAYS
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lege of Christian Studies Professor rtist Michelle Westmark Dr. Steve Oldham and Bethel Wingard cringes when “It’s such a massive, University Professor Kenneth Steinshe sees her kids scrolling, broad question. In many bach, who explored the question, scrolling, scrolling, as fast as their fingers will fly, past pictures on ways, calling something “What is Beauty?” as part of the UMHB series, C3 - Conversations in Instagram. As much as she loves ‘beautiful’ can be a Christianity + Culture. the speed and convenience of In January, the three speakers way of assigning and technology, she continuously spent an hour with students disencourages her daughters to look assessing value.” cussing what beauty is in their lives, more closely at the images they’re — culture, and in relationships with whizzing past and see what’s Michelle Westmark Wingard God. The presentation was a comthere—see the beauty in them. pliment to the exhibit “The Beauti“I want them to slow down ful” from the national organization enough to have the pleasure of Christians in looking—getting past the surface A CLOSER LOOK the Visual Arts, which was on of what we can see quickly to be able to really take in Junior graphic design major display through February at the the visual ideas that are present,” said Wingard, who is Blake Dupre and freshman Baugh Center for the Visual Arts. international business and a professor of art at Bethel University in Minneapolis, marketing double major “When it comes to the quesMN. “It’s in the slowness and the depth of looking Ashleigh Thompson check tion, ‘What is beauty?’ I find mywhere we can see value and beauty.” out some of the artwork at self looking at contrasts, looking Wingard was one of three panelists, including Col“The Beautiful” display. F E A T U R E S
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to the disruption of the ordinary, and looking for depth,” said Wingard. She followed with an example: “When the temperatures dip below zero in the Minnesota tundra, these amazing, feather-like ice crystal and ice particles grow on my windows at home. There’s something really lovely about the fact that this ‘thing’ happens—beauty in the midst of something that is pretty painful, like sub-zero temperatures and treacherous winters. There certainly is beauty to be found in contrast.” She said beauty depends on whose idea of beauty we’re discussing. “It’s different from person to person, from culture to culture, from gender to gender,” she said. “It’s such a massive, broad question. In many ways, calling something ‘beautiful’ can be a way of assigning and assessing value.” When the beauty value structure is assigned to people, that’s when she thinks it can be problematic and can do more harm than good. In this day and age, when so many place value in the outer beauty,
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THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER Pictured above is a sampling of some of the artwork on display during “The Beautiful” exhibit, including a shadowy time-lapse video by speaker and artist Michelle Westmark Wingard. At right is a stylized photo Wingard took of the feather-like ice crystals that form on her windows in the winter
she tries to teach her daughters to live beyond the superficial and to live outside of this “false value structure.” “I want them to be able to live outside of what the world might tell them that beauty is,” she said. When it comes to defining “beauty,” Oldham said it’s a “challenging thing to do” since its concept is neither subjective nor objective. “When you’re thinking about beauty, it’s a kind of encounter, or event, that happens between a
perceiver and an object,” he said. “That event is what we’re describing as beautiful.” Oldham said beauty is an important topic for students to discuss in our “success-focused and bottom-line oriented world.” “The experience of beauty—seeing it, recognizing it, and being challenged by it—is akin to what happens when we contemplate the Triune God of love and beauty, especially in worship.” Even though artists often have a complicated relationship with beauty, Steinbach said that beauty isn’t found solely in the realm of art. Years ago, when he worked in construction and installed rafters on houses, at the end of the day, he would look up and “see that beautiful plane across the top of the house and think to himself, ‘holy smokes, how can you not love or appreciate that?’”
He also remembers seeing beauty in his ninth-grade geometry class. “In the span of my life, I would say that is the most powerful aesthetic experience I’ve had—sitting there, watching my geometry teacher draw all the angles and seeing the mathematics behind it,” he recalled. “I would turn to my friends and say, ‘Isn’t this cool!’ and they would look at me like I was insane. I was in love with the lines and the underlying structure beneath it all.” Because beauty is so multi-faceted and different for every person, it is nearly impossible to create a hard definition, he said. “With beauty, there’s a certain harmony that happens—a certain intangible thing that works.” Adding to the adage that “beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” Steinbach also says that, “beauty is everywhere.” We just have to look, and we will find it. “Beauty is not some elusive thing that’s out there that we have to track down and hunt,” he said. “God is revealing His beauty to us all the time.”
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ALUMNI NOTES
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I found that in my life, most of the things the Lord has allowed me to do are because there is someone else who is supposed to benefit. —Adrienne Evans Quickley ’08, ’10
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ADRIENNE EVANS QUICKLEY ‘08, ‘10
Alive by God’s Grace
After cheating death twice, Evans-Quickley knows her experiences are helping ‘make things easier’ for others
For her tireless work to promote veterans, Congressman John Carter named Adrienne Evans-Quickley ‘08, ‘10 as a 2018 recipient of the Congressional Veteran Commendation Award. The nominations-based program is designed to recognize the wartime sacrifices and peacetime community involvement of residents in the 31st Congressional District of Texas.
A minor technicality in the way her father spelled his name— versus the way the Army thought he should spell it—was the catalyst that prompted Adrienne Evans-Quickley to join the military. When she was just a teenager, her father died while serving in the Army. When her mother went to collect his insurance, she was told the paperwork wasn’t valid because her father had signed his legal name as “Jr.” instead of spelling it out as “Junior,” even though that was his legal name on his birth certificate. Adrienne’s mom was suddenly left penniless as a single mom with five children, including a newborn, and she had just 30 days to move out of their quarters. Adrienne remembers her mom was “devastated” because she didn’t know how she was going to put her children through college. Determined to help change the rules so others wouldn’t have to face similar circumstances, Adrienne decided to join the Army. In 1975, she got her first “taste” of what being in the military would be like. She was 17 and serving as a Maryland Senate page. She was invited to go on a congressional tour to Vietnam. As her USO plane flew over the country, “things went horribly wrong,” she said, and the
corps group ended up having to be rescued. Thankful to be alive, she came back to the states and finished her requirements to graduate from high school. Despite having second thoughts about joining the Army after the close call in Vietnam, she enlisted a year later. What she thought would be a 20-year career ended up being a 27-year stint, thanks to the onset of Desert Storm and Desert Shield. During her time in the military, she was deployed 11 times all over the world to places such as Grenada, Honduras, Africa, Panama, and Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina hit. Her career eventually came to an end when a missile hit the helicopter she was boarding in Afghanistan. She recalls that fateful day just like it was yesterday—seeing the missile trail coming straight for the helicopter and yelling, “MISSILE!” Still hanging in the doorway, she was able to jump free from the hovering craft just as the missile exploded behind her. Left with a back injury, shrapnel wounds, and brain-stem damage, she was the only survivor. Her family had been told she hadn’t survived and was in the process of planning her funeral when she called to tell them she was alive. While still in the military, she worked hard to change the protocols so families would no continued on page 29 ALUMNI L I F E
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IN MEMORIAM 1940s Nell Garrett Carson ex ’39 - 42, Dec. 2, 2019, in Amarillo, TX. She married Forrest “Skeezix” Carson Feb. 21, 1942, in Borger. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Borger, where she was very active. She played in many golf tournaments in the Panhandle, winning the Ladies Hutchinson Golf Tournament twice. She attended Mary Hardin-Baylor in the early forties and left MHB in the middle of her junior year. Annie Lee (Bunch) Means ’40, Nov. 8, 2019, in Boerne, TX. She was a fourthgeneration student to attend UMHB, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics in 1940. Annie later took courses to earn her teaching certification in both elementary and high school and taught in Texas public schools for more than 25 years. She married J.R. Means from Throckmorton, TX, on June 1, 1941. Their union lasted for 68 years until his death. The family was honored with the Parker Award on April 1, 1995.
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Marthann (Theis) Nobles ex ’42-43, Sept. 21, 2019, in Midland, TX. In 1941, she graduated from Midland High School and then attended Mary Hardin-Baylor for a year and a half. Upon her return to Midland, she met and married Jack Benjamin Nobles on May 8, 1943, at the onset of World War II. While Jack was overseas, Marthann worked for Shell Oil Company. She loved to gather her children at the piano and play and sing. She loved to play bridge and was a member of several bridge groups throughout her life. She was a faithful member of First Baptist Church Midland for 80 years and was recently recognized as the longest-standing member. She and Jack read the Bible together aloud 33 times and often said this was their greatest accomplishment during their marriage. Dorothy (Tigertt) Blackwood ’45, Sept. 22, 2019, in Lancaster, TX. A life-long resident of South Dallas County, Dorothy graduated as valedictorian from Wilmer-Hutchins high school at the age of sixteen. She earned an undergraduate degree in 1945 from Mary Hardin-Baylor. After earning a master’s degree in library science from Texas Women’s University,
she was instrumental in setting up the elementary school libraries in Lancaster ISD. She enjoyed her work as a children’s librarian for many years. Her husband was R.E. Blackwood. Nelwyn T. Lewis ’45, Nov. 28, 2019, in Gonzales, TX. Nelwyn married Samuel Freeman Lewis Sr. on June 12, 1945, in Gonzales. She graduated from Gonzales High School and was a lifelong member of the First Baptist Church of Gonzales. Having been a motivated student, she went on to UMHB and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in home economics. She came back to Gonzales and taught home economics at Gonzales High School for several years until deciding to devote her life to being a full-time wife, mother of three children, Sunday School teacher, and homemaker.
1950 s Betty Payne Huber ’52, Dec. 12, 2019. After graduating from Moody High School, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from UMHB. She married Kenneth Huber in 1951. She was an elementary and special education teacher for more than 30 years and taught across Texas in Carrollton, Irving, Moody, Sherman, Temple, and Tyler. Betty later received a Master of Education from East Texas State University in 1980. As a proud alumna of UMHB, she served on the Board of Trustees for 14 years. She was a member of First Woodway Baptist
Church and active in Bible Study Fellowship. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Betty Payne Huber Presidential Endowed Scholarship at UMHB, Development Services, 900 College St., Box 8433, Belton, 76513 Billie J. Compton ’58, Feb. 1, 2020. Billie J. Compton of Shelby passed away at age 83. She was married to her husband, Bill Compton, for 34 years.
1960 s Carolyn Lois (King) Blackmore ’61, Oct. 14, 2019, in Mathis, TX. Carolyn graduated from UMHB in 1961. Carolyn’s passion for books and reading was known to those who knew her. She retired after 27 years of dedicated work for the State of Texas as a caseworker for the aged and disabled. She loved meeting new people, beachcombing, photography, animals—especially horses—and spending time with her beloved son, Philip. Her family will miss her smile, laughter, and many stories. Camille (Munk) Dillard ’62, Dec. 15, 2019. She grew up in Pleasanton, TX, and graduated from UMHB in 1962 with a degree in home economics. Camille was married to Don Dillard for 56 years. They lived in College Station and Houston, where she worked as a kindergarten teacher. They also lived in Waco, where she was active at Columbus Avenue Baptist Church, and Dallas, where she was
a member of Prestonwood Baptist Church. Camille enjoyed serving on the Board of Trustees at UMHB for 16 years. She was a prayer warrior, exemplary wife, mother, “Mimi,” and dear friend to many. She had a warm, outgoing demeanor and a servant’s heart. Donations can be made in her honor to UMHB, Box 8433, 900 College St., Belton, TX 76513.
Anna Katherine (Kate) Tidwell ’62, Sept. 4, 2019. She was 78.
Delores M. Wiggins ’64, Dec. 12, 2019, in Waco, TX. Delores was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was a retired teacher who taught countless students to read and write. She graduated from Oglesby High School and Mary Hardin-Baylor. Delores married her high school sweetheart, Hollis Wiggins, in April 1954. Delores was a talented artist who enjoyed gifting paintings to loved ones and was an avid reader. Delores enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, and she frequently hosted gatherings for any celebration. She will be dearly missed. Mary Ellen (Thurman) Denson ’66, Oct. 18, 2019, in Marble Falls, TX. Mary Ellen graduated from Mary Hardin-Baylor
in 1966 with degrees in music and education. She was an elementary school teacher for many years. She married Robert Denson in 1967. She was so thankful for the opportunity to obtain her music degree that she endowed a music scholarship at UMHB for students to be able to pursue their dreams.
1970s
Mariella (Smith) Morgan ’71, Sept. 20, 2019, in Temple. After graduating high school in 1953, she attended the University of Texas but withdrew in 1955 to get married and settle in Temple. She was a member of the First Baptist Church and taught Sunday School. She was a member of the City Federation, Arno Arts Club, and the Cultural Activities Center, where she served on numerous committees and as an officer. In 1970, Mariella returned to college and earned her Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics in 1971 from UMHB. In 1980, she earned her master’s degree from Baylor University. She then pursued her doctorate at Texas A&M University and only lacked her dissertation to receive that degree. She worked for Temple ISD, where she taught high school math and later became head of the math department. She was instrumental in implementing calculus and the Gifted and Talented program at the high school level. In 1981, she moved into school administration, becoming Temple ISD’s director of Mathematics, Technology, and Testing. Mariella served on the State of Texas Textbook Committee, where she was influential in establishing the math curriculum used by every Texas school. She also
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authored a math textbook. She retired from Temple ISD in May 2000 but continued to tutor math for the rest of her life. Col. (Ret.) Jean D. Tarbutton USAF ’72, Nov. 23, 2019, in Salado, TX. He attended the Allen Military Academy, Texas A&M University, the University of Maryland, and UMHB, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education. Col. Tarbutton was a distinguished veteran of the US Air Force. He entered the US Army Air Corps in January 1942 as an aviation cadet, and received his pilot wings and commission as a second lieutenant in October 1942. In combat, he served in the Aleutian Islands as a dive bomber pilot and the European Theater of Operations as a fighter pilot. On Dec. 5, 1944, while engaged in aerial combat on his 62nd mission, his P-51 caught fire, and he was forced to bail out near Berlin, Germany. He was captured and placed in a prisoner of war camp where he remained until the camp was overrun by the Russian Army near the end of the war. In 1946, he received a regular commission in the US Air Force and remained on active duty until he retired in February 1970. He retired at the grade of colonel with an aeronautical rating of command pilot, and his last duty assignment was base commander at Bergstrom Air Force Base in Austin. Following retirement, Col. Tarbutton was active in community affairs in Salado. He was a member of the Salado United Methodist Church.
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Walter E. Caughron ’74, Dec. 17, 2019, in Temple. Walter fought for his country in the US Army for 27 years, retiring as a lieutenant colonel. During his active-duty time, he received many medals and awards. He also was a middle school American History teacher for Killeen ISD. Walter enjoyed woodworking and playing golf, but most importantly, he enjoyed his family and friends. Walter was married to his wife, Phyllis Caughron, for 66 years.
Mary G. Taggart ’76, Jan. 31, 2020, in Beaumont, TX. Mary earned her undergraduate degree from Mary Hardin-Baylor and later went on to earn her master’s in criminal justice. Mary always took her job very seriously and was able to work her way up to the assistant superintendent of the Texas Youth Commission. She also loved her work with foreign exchange students. Mary had a wonderful smile and a zeal for life like no other, and she will be greatly missed.
Judy L. Landgraf ’75, Nov. 23, 2019, in College Station, TX. She was a proud graduate of Burton High School, Blinn College, and Scott & White School of Nursing at UMHB with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Judy was a happy, giving, joyful person who nursed in many ways. She continued her life of giving at the time of her death by donating her organs as a transplant donor. She was married to Kenneth Landgraf.
Rose C. Klandrud ’79, Nov. 22, 2019, in Temple. She graduated from PSJA High School in Pharr. She earned an associate’s degree from Temple Junior College and a bachelor’s degree from UMHB in 1979. Rose married Leonard Klandrud in 1967 in Alamo, TX. She worked for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company in McAllen. She also was a special education teacher for Temple ISD.
Donna (Draper) Schneider ’76, Oct. 12, 2019, in Albany, OR. Donna graduated from UMHB with a bachelor’s degree in English. She was married to Warren Dale Miller in 1951 and then to Jack Schneider in 1970. She spent much of her life working in escrow and real estate in Oregon, Washington, and California. She was a long-time member of the Albany Evangelical Church.
1980s Sharon Kay (Schmidt) Dokupil ’80, Nov. 5, 2019, in Temple. Sharon graduated from UMHB in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science degree in vocational home economics with a kindergarten endorsement. She married Johnny Dokupil in 1980. She taught school in Troy ISD for 33 years. Sharon was a member of Salem Lutheran Church.
David J. Ingram ’89, Dec. 8, 2019, in Waco, TX. He graduated from Nolan Catholic High School in Fort Worth in 1964 and later earned his Bachelor of Business Administration Degree from UMHB in 1989. After high school, he briefly attended the University of Texas in Austin, but he had a strong calling to serve his country and decided to leave school to join the Air Force in Vietnam during that time. Shortly after his honorable discharge from the Air Force, he met the love of his life, Carolyn Fenoglio, marrying her in 1969 and starting their family and his long career with the US Postal Service. During his time with the postal service, he served as Postmaster in Cisco, TX; Bentonville, AR; Killeen, TX; and Waco, TX, retiring in 2001 after 31 years.
1990 s Catherine M. Gander ’91, Feb. 10, 2020, in Texas. Catherine lived a life that exemplified compassionate service. She cared deeply about ministries that spread the love of Christ, empowered women, and promoted children’s literacy. She frequently expressed her love through thoughtful hand-written notes and attentively selected gifts. Catherine valued humility. She earned her bachelor’s degree in general studies part-time while working fulltime and caring for her family. She graduated at the top of her class at UMHB. Catherine held several director positions in human resources.
In 2008, she completed a master’s degree in social work at George Mason University. She was a social worker at an affordable housing complex for seniors and adults with disabilities. Catherine had a passion for reading and often spent her free time captivated with books. Thomas C. Oliver ’95, Nov. 17, 2019, in Texas. He attended Southwest Texas State University, Temple College, and McLennan Community College, where he earned an associate’s degree. He graduated from UMHB in 1995 with a bachelor’s degree in history with a minor in political science. He obtained his teaching certificate through the Education Service Center, Region 12. Following a first date on New Year’s Eve, Tom married Sherry Ivy, with whom he shared 24 years of laughter and teasing, but mostly love for each other, their blended family, friends, and community. James Nelson “Jimmy” Murchison ’99, Sept. 27, 2019, in Dallas, TX. Jimmy earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from UMHB in 1999. He was a veteran of the US Navy, proudly serving his country from 1966 to 1970. Jimmy owned and operated Murchison Gifts and Antiques in Crockett, TX.
2000 s Becky T. Gray ’06, Dec. 20, 2019, in Texas. Becky grew up in Lampasas and attended Lampasas public schools all 12 years. She graduated from UMHB in 2006 cum laude with a degree in psychology and minor in English. While at UMHB, she was a member of Sigma Tau Delta, Psi Chi, Alpha Chi, and Gamma Beta Phi. After graduation, Becky also studied at Christ for the Nations in Dallas. She was also a member of the Aglow Christian Organization and Compass Ministries in Killeen. She was married to Shawn Gray of Marble Falls. Ronnie D. Stewart ’13, Dec. 24, 2019, in Florence, TX. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Florence. He also attended Lawler Baptist Church. Ronnie graduated from Central Texas College with an associate’s degree in telecommunications in 1988. He went back to college, and graduated from UMHB with a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies degree in 2013. Ronni worked with students with special needs as both a paraprofessional and teacher at Florence and Georgetown ISDs. Christopher L. Cherry ’13, Feb. 11, 2020, in Liberty, TX. He received a double bachelor’s degree in social studies and history from UMHB. Chris proudly served his country as a staff sergeant with the US Army in the Persian Gulf and Iraq, retiring in 2010. For the past five years, he had been working as a gas controller for Enable Midstream Partners in Houston.
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MEMORIAL GIFTS October 2, 2019 - February 24, 2020 Roy Adams Cynthia Moya
Lucile Capt Dr. Lissette Ferlet Carpenter Jack Cash Robert and Edie Cornett King
Lawton Albin Betty Sue Craven Beebe Doris Speed Bollinger Dr. Rebecca O’Banion Carolyn Allison Owens Shirley Cowan Sommer Irene Stach Julia Amason Walker
Mary Frances Clark Frank and Mary Grant Kominowski Maurina Wiese Corley Anne Wiese Halbert
Hal Anderson Ken and Melva Garner Hobbs
Jim Cox Peggy Bass Albin
Kay Anderson Dr. Joyce Williams
James and Wanda Ward Crews Stan and Christy Crews Fischer
Bettie Atha Mark and Betty O’Hair Anderson Kent Owens Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens C. W. (Charles) Bird Robert and Edie Cornett King
Judy Davis Fred and Jan Raby Carilane Vieregg
Greg Bond Robert and Edie Cornett King D’Anne Renee Burns Keith and Cora Lea Burns Janice Muehlstein Caldwell Daniel and Cathy Becker Holub Jeremy Caldwell Daniel and Cathy Becker Holub
Virginia Davis Gregory and Jenny Hansen Gastler Gary DeSalvo J. Harry and Suzy Adams Michael and Liz Ball Trey and Lori Lorenz Bourland Tony and Jordan Castillo Steve and CC Coffino Jon and Elizabeth Cunningham Jacob and Kaitlyn Fleenor Bruce and Debbie Ham Fletcher Guy and Cindy Fowler Tommy and Micki Su Greeson Jeramie and Brittney Hanson Robert and Marianita Hebert David and Karen Jennings Ron and Julianne Johnson
Tracie Jones Dale and JoNita Kaulfus Eric and Kelsey DeWeese Malmin Nicholas Marino Larry Mathias Dave and Susan Morton Patrick and Melissa Mullins Brittney Pemberton Mark Polnac Dr. Dennis and Ruth Ready William and Sarah Riggs Hailey Rotenberry Gregory and Martha Schannep Greg and Jessica Sprowls Mary Sprowls Kay Steeves Sheila Stephens Amanda Stern Greg and Lisa Stewart Joshua and Leslie Strommen Maxwell and Rachel Su Randy and Lauren Sutton Temple Bible Church Jonathan and Mandolyn Tsai David and Sharon Vincent Jeffrey and Jodi Williams
Camille Munk Dillard Scott and Rhonda Arnett Oscar and Janice Williams Autry Dr. Jerry and Vicky Bawcom John and Pixi Bercier Bob and Della Best Clark-Sampson Bible Fellowship Class Joe and Lynne Cook John and Mary Creecy Delores Dillard Evans Glenn and Brenda Gaustad Jerry and Beverly Genda Brad and Betsy Green Brady and Maria Green Novalene Green Anne Wiese Halbert Ron and Lynn Harris Carl and Judy Hudson continued on page 30
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Alive by God’s Grace continued from page 23
longer be falsely notified. “My son still cries when he thinks about that moment, and he is 34 years old now,” she said. “I believe that God does things for a reason. I really believe that every time there has been an incident in our lives, we are put in a place to do something, so it doesn’t happen to someone else. I found that in my life, most of the things the Lord has allowed me to do are because there is someone else who is supposed to benefit.” During her stint in the Army, she had an opportunity to take early retirement, but she was still working to prove her father had signed his legal name correctly so her mother could get the insurance money to which she was entitled. “It took me 19 years to go through the paperwork needed and to learn the system enough, but in my 19th year, my mother got her backpay, her benefits, and the insurance money,” she said. “It is also a requirement now that the military must tell you to sign your legal name.” When Adrienne came to UMHB
to get a bachelor’s degree, she and her family lived just down the street from campus. Her two children walked her to school each morning since she was still recuperating from the helicopter accident and couldn’t yet drive. “UMHB was my healing ground,” she said. “My professors and counselors worked with me. They knew I was still shakey and fearful and didn’t like crowds, but they helped me,” she said. “There was a lot to overcome.” Adrienne was not only able to get a bachelor’s degree in professional studies in 2008 but went on to get a Bachelor of Business Administration in 2010. Since then, she has been an active proponent of veterans and served as the longest-running member of the Fort Hood Retiree Council, a veteran-based organization. She also served as president of the Women’s Army Corps of Veteran’s Association Chapter 94. She and five other women veterans worked tirelessly to create Texas Women’s
Veteran’s Day, which launched June 12, 2018. The June 12 date is significant because that was the day in 1948 that President Harry S. Truman signed into law the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, which enabled women to serve as permanent, regular members of not only the Army but also the Navy, Marine Corps, and the recently formed Air Force. After Texas created the special day, nine other states followed suit and now recognize women veterans on that day. “Women are determined, and prayer does change things,” she said. Even though Adrienne had a long and challenging military career, she says she believes God chose her for the job and gave her the fervor to keep pressing on. Now, she says it was worth it. “I believe God took this little country girl, who was trying to help her mother and said, ‘I can work with this,’ and He let my experience make it easier for someone else.”
IN CELEBRATION OF OUR 175TH ANNIVERSARY, WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU, WHEREVER YOU ARE!
So far, more than 500 alumni have checked in from all over the world!
Check in at UMHB.edu/175!
You can also see all of the events planned for our year-long celebration, ALUMNI L I F read up on the history of UMHB, and share your stories!
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Memorial Gifts continued from page 28 InJoy Bible Study KDC Real Estate Development & Investments Janice Losey-Head Walt and Pam Manly Jean McIver Clifford and Marsha Miller Howard and Claudia Nelson Dr. Rebecca O’Banion Kelly and Birken Olson Dr. and Mrs. Randy O’Rear Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens Blake and Debra Priest Chuck and Jennifer Ramm James and Jo Carol Redd Gene and Sally Schaeffer Shirley Cowan Sommer Dr. and Mrs. Steve Theodore Julia Amason Walker Ralph and Vermel Wheatly Doug Dillard Sherman and Margaret Dillard Behrens Linzy & Thigpen Attorneys-At-Law Walt and Pam Manly Dr. Rebecca O’Banion Dr. and Mrs. Randy O’Rear Dr. and Mrs. Steve Theodore Jim and Jean Thigpen Anna Marie Enrriques Carolyn Allison Owens Roy Finney Jonnie Atkison Barron Kay Elrod Coppin Evelyn Cadenhead Davis Dr. Delia Quintanilla Elizabeth Rogers-Wallace Clifford Foster Dr. Cliffa Foster Tucker and Karli Glaske
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Bill and Lynn Johnston Dr. Mickey and Dee Kerr Dr. Todd and Kelly Kunders Dr. Christopher Lockwood Dr. and Mrs. Randy O’Rear Dr. Michael and Carol Robinson Dr. Lester and Kate Sombito
Dr. Ken Fox Ona Beth Withrow Fox Dr. Iva Fussell Dr. Lissette Ferlet Carpenter Henry Hegar Carolyn Allison Owens Jerry and Ruth Holley Anne Wiese Halbert Betty Payne Huber Dr. Jerry and Vicky Bawcom Betty Sue Craven Beebe Rebecca Lafon Everett Gen. Clement A. Evans Chapter, United Daughters of the Confederacy Johnnie Vannatta Hobbs Kathy Huber Elaine Johnston Hugh and Virginia Keen Walt and Pam Manly Dr. Rebecca O’Banion Dr. and Mrs. Randy O’Rear Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens Fred and Jan Raby Pat Lockridge Shannon Shirley Cowan Sommer Larry and Barbara Stahr Glenna Morgan Stamps Dr. Bill and Cindy Townsend Julia Amason Walker Peg Hogue James and Lynn Whyburn Clarke
Helen Lewis Foster Dr. Cliffa Foster
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Ken Huber Dr. Jerry and Vicky Bawcom Pat Lockridge Shannon Dr. Bill and Cindy Townsend Julia Amason Walker Vickee James Carolyn Allison Owens Kent Owens Melba Fountain Kattner Mike and Kathi Foster Beimer Robert and Edie Cornett King Nursing Class of 1973 Linda Hood Pehl Betty Warrick Kirkpatrick David and Judy Townsend Bruton Bill and Sue Allison May Kent Owens Dr. Kerry and Kathy Owens Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens Jerry Maxfield Carolyn Allison Owens Annie Lee Bunch Means Joe H. Bunch Walt and Pam Manly Keith and Nancy Orie Natha McMinn Mitchell Lloyd Wayne Mitchell Jr. Dr. Rebecca O’Banion Shirley Cowan Sommer Julia Amason Walker Caleb Benjamin Morgan Julia Alexander Lou Beth Birdwell Debbie Burns Tom and Sue Dance Stephen and Suzanne Graham Anne Wiese Halbert Troy and Joy Hensarling Nancy Diane Lovell David and Donna Wright
Liz Alexander Nesbitt Anne Wiese Halbert
Margaret Bales Ratliff John and Jennifer Low
Mary Ann Smith Newnam Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens
Blenda Rehbein Robert and Edie Cornett King
Scott Sodek Kent Owens Dr. Kerry and Kathy Owens Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens Bert Thorne Robert and Edie Cornett King
Frank O’Banion Edna O’Banion Guy and Stephanie O’Banion Dr. Rebecca O’Banion Bruce and Rhonda Roberts
Katie Keller Russell David and Jessica Hobratsch White Jay Frank Schultz The Andrew Smith Family
Zemly Turner Michael and Cathy Burkett Cornelio
Hayley Ann Parker Dr. Jerry and Vicky Bawcom
Lorene Lucko Shelton Robert and Edie Cornett King
Dr. Arthur Tyson Frank and Mary Grant Kominowski
Wes Phelan Dr. Kerry and Kathy Owens Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens
Pat Silvers Kent Owens Dr. Kerry and Kathy Owens Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens
Lexie Dunagin Waters Thomas Waters
David Potts Dr. W. George Bartels Iris Ramey Dr. Todd and Kelly Kunders Dr. Kerry and Kathy Owens Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens
Virginia Silvers Kent Owens Kerry and Kathy Owens Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens Andrea Smith Victor and Alexis Horton Turley
HONORARY GIFTS Mark and Betty O’Hair Anderson Marietta Parker Michael Ball Jim and Jan Evans Thomas Dr. Jerry Bawcom Dr. Brian and Christy Caraway Guenther Dr. Jerry and Vicky Bawcom Dr. Terry and Connie Bawcom Marietta Parker
Betty Sue Craven Beebe Marietta Parker Julia Amason Walker Lou Beth Birdwell Julia Alexander Debbie Burns Sue Dance Stephen and Suzanne Graham Troy and Joy Hensarling Nancy Diane Lovell David and Donna Wright
Linda Whitley Carolyn Allison Owens Clifford and Maurine Wiese Anne Wiese Halbert Hunter Clifford Wiese Anne Wiese Halbert
OPPORTUNITY
TO MAKE AN HONORARY OR MEMORIAL GIFT, please contact:
Development
UMHB Box 8433 900 College Street Belton, Texas 76513
254-295-4601 or give online at
giving.umhb.edu.
ALUMNI L I F E
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Kelly Boggs Kevin and Kellie Prinz Johnson
Debbie Stapp Daniel Jim and Jan Evans Thomas
Mary Jane Morgan Troy and Joy Hensarling
Linda Breaux Marietta Parker
Janet Livingston Erwin Betty Sue Craven Beebe
Beth Bennett Norvell Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens
Dr. Edna Penny Bridges Calvin and Donna Graham Lee
Sally Wakefield Gillam Dr. Aida Smith Sapp
Dr. Edna Penny Bridges and Mr. Bobby Bridges Mark and Betty O’Hair Anderson Betty Sue Craven Beebe Russell Bridges Michael and Cathy Burkett Cornelio Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens Carolyn Owens Pruitt Jim and Jan Evans Thomas Carol Treible
Jed Edward Glaske Dr. Todd and Kelly Kunders
Dr. and Mrs. Randy O’Rear Mike and Janis Frazier Jeff Smith Cary and Janice Torgeson
Cortney Dunahoo Bruce Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens
Roger and Valerie Adams Hampton Thomas Hampton
Dianne Burkes Dr. Aida Smith Sapp
Linda Ruth Jones Haigood Eula Woodyard McKown
Josh Holt Dr. Craig and Megan Hammonds
Scott Cheek Earl and Louise Cheek
Loni Howard Dianne Burkes
Class of 1981 Calvin and Donna Graham Lee Shelly Claybrook Mark and Betty O’Hair Anderson Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens Gloria McGregor Combs Eula Woodyard McKown Clint and Sandy Crocket Gina Agold Krause
UMHB LIFE | S U M M E R
Sue Beth O’Banon Grimes Eula Woodyard McKown
Dr. Helen Wilson Harris Jim and Jan Evans Thomas
Stacy Durham Carpenter Dr. Aida Smith Sapp
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Tucker Glaske Jim and Jan Evans Thomas
Marietta Parker Betty Sue Craven Beebe Anne Wiese Halbert Carmen Perez Shamalee and Tommy Perez Haliman Pat Lockridge Shannon Randall and Diana Marino Bassett Gerald Slaton Dr. Aida Smith Sapp Jeff Sutton Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens Dr. and Mrs. Steve Theodore Cary and Janice Torgeson
Bobby Johnson Dr. Brian and Christy Caraway Guenther
Margie King Thomas Mark and Betty O’Hair Anderson
Darla Kirby Jim and Jan Evans Thomas
Janice Torgeson Lazan Pargaman
Donna Graham Lee Jim and Jan Evans Thomas
Dr. Kris Ward Carolyn Allison Owens
Sue Allison May Jeff and Lisa May Bennett
2 0 2 0
Carolyn Allison Owens Jeff and Lisa May Bennet Julia Amason Walker
A
lissa Edgington never considered herself to be a “patient person.” But for some reason, when it comes to working with students with special needs, God gave her an exceptional talent. “Kids with special needs are just people, and I love them so much,” said the junior interdisciplinary studies major. She knew she wanted to work in special education when she was in high school after she started working at a school for children with special needs. “It was the best two years of my entire life,” she said. “Even on the hard days, I would still come home thinking, ‘this is what I want to do.’” When it was time to choose a college to attend, UMHB was a no-brainer since many of her family members had worked or earned degrees here. She likes to call herself a “super legacy” student since her parents met at UMHB their freshman year, her grandmother graduated from the nursing school, a great aunt graduated as an education major, and her great-grandfather was a professor in the College of Business. “I haven’t doubted this is where I was supposed to be for even a second,” Alissa said. “This place is home to me, and scholarships are the reason I’m able to be here, pursuing my dream of teaching special needs kids.”
Alissa Edgington Junior, Interdisciplinary Studies Major Schertz, Texas
PHILANTHROPY
9
900 College Street • Belton, Texas 76513
Electronic Service Requested
To donate, mail checks to:
The COVID-19 Student Relief Fund assists UMHB students by providing support to those who have suffered financial losses due to COVID-19. All gifts go directly to help with their educational expenses.
Office of Development University of Mary Hardin-Baylor UMHB Box 8433 Belton, TX 76513 Or donate online:
umhb.edu/studentrelief
