“What an honor to serve the school we love”
Randy and Julie O’Rear take the lead as President and First Lady
UMHB LIFE | 1
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Fall 2 0 0 9 | V o l . 2 9 • No.1
features
14 Full Circle
After more than 20 years at UMHB, Dr. Randy O’Rear steps into a new role—as president.
18 Look to the Children
A group of student missionaries encounter the realities of a “post-Christian” society when they travel to Great Britain.
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departments
15 Campus Life
A million-dollar gift, a visit from the baseball commissioner, and more
13 Philanthropy
Alumna Madge Mao Meyer is honored at the grand opening of the university’s new Information Technology Suite.
20 Alumni Life
Check out what’s happening in the lives of alumni and their families.
12 On the cover: Julie Wheeler O’Rear ’90 and Dr. Randy O’Rear ’88, MBA ’97, step into new roles this fall as the First Lady and President of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. (Photo by Rachel Parkhurst ’04)
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CALENDAR
AUGUST 24 24 28
Fall Classes Begin Art of Peace Exhibit opening and poetry reading, 5:00 p.m., Arla Ray Tyson Art Gallery, Townsend Memorial Library; continues through Sept. 25 Convocation, Mayborn Campus Center, 11:00 a.m.
SEPTEMBER 3 7 10 12 17 18 19 26
John Cage Birthday Recital, Michelle Schumann, Hughes Recital Hall, 7:30 p.m. Labor Day Holiday (Campus Closed) Hillman Visiting Artists Series, Maia String Quartet, Hughes Recital Hall, 7:30 p.m. Football at Southern Nazarene University, 6:00 p.m. “Piano Fantasies” CD Release Recital, Michelle Schumann, Hughes Recital Hall, 7:30 p.m. Presidential Inauguration, Mayborn Campus Center, 10:00 a.m. Football at Texas Lutheran University, 6:00 p.m. Football vs. McMurry University, Tiger Stadium, 6:00 p.m.
OCTOBER 3 5 6 6 9 10 17 19 22 23-24 24 27 30-31 31
Football at Hardin Simmons University, 2:00 p.m. Cathie Tyler: Recent Work Exhibit, opening reception & gallery talk, 5:00 p.m., Arla Ray Tyson Art Gallery, Townsend Memorial Library; continues through Oct. 30 Business & Career Fair, Lord Conference Center, 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Bell County Symphonic Band Concert, Lakeview Baptist Church, 7:30 p.m. Opera/Broadway Gala, Hughes Recital Hall, 7:30 p.m. Football vs. Louisiana College, Tiger Stadium, 1:00 p.m. Football at Mississippi College, 1:00 p.m. Fall Break - students only, administrative offices open Concert Choir Fall Concert, Hughes Recital Hall, 7:30 p.m. Homecoming Football vs. Southern Oregon University, Tiger Stadium, 1:00 p.m. Teacher Job Fair, Lord Conference Center, 2:30 – 4:00 p.m. “Blind Date” and “Spring Dance”: Two One-Act Plays, Cultural Activities Center, Temple, 7:30 p.m. Football vs. East Texas Baptist University, Tiger Stadium, 1:00 p.m.
NOVEMBER 3 6-7 7 9 14 16 17 19 20-21 25-27
Riffs: Cross-Discipline Arts Event, Shelton Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Miss MHB Pageant, W. W. Walton Chapel, 7:00 p.m. Football at Howard Payne University, 2:00 p.m. Graduating Senior Exhibits, Arla Ray Tyson ArtGallery, Townsend Memorial Library; continues through Dec. 11 Football vs. Sul Ross State University, Tiger Stadium, 1:00 p.m. Meet and Greet Dr. Randy and Julie O’Rear at the UMHB Booth at the BGCT, George R. Brown Convention Center, Houston Bell County Symphonic Band Concert, First Baptist Church, Salado, 7:30 p.m. Jazz Ensemble Concert, Hughes Recital Hall, 7:30 p.m. Crusader Preview Weekend Thanksgiving Holidays
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UMHB LIFE Volume 29, Number 1 Fall 2009 President Randy O’Rear, Ed.D. Editor-in-Chief Paula Price Tanner, Ed.D. Editor Carol Woodward Contributing Editor Rebecca O’Banion ’93 Contributing Writers Jena Coulson Melissa Ford ’07 Graphic Designer Randy Yandell ’99 Contributing Designer Zeal Design Studio Photographers Melissa Ford ’07 Rebecca O’Banion ’93 Crystal Pankratz ’04 Rachel Parkhurst ’04 Carol Woodward Randy Yandell ’99 UMHB Life is published three times a year by the Office of Marketing and Public Relations. Please send comments, story ideas or letters to: UMHB Life UMHB Box 8431 900 College Street Belton, Texas 76513 Alumni Life is compiled by the Office of Alumni Relations. Please send any information for publishing or change of personal information to: Alumni Relations UMHB Box 8427 900 College Street Belton, Texas 76513
alumni@umhb.edu 1-800-727-UMHB
www.umhb.edu
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Baugh Foundation grants $1 million for fine arts Gift lays groundwork for visual and performing arts improvements Though plans are still on the drawing board, a generous lead gift of $1 million has opened the way to improving campus facilities for art and music in the months to come. Trustees for the Eula Mae and John Baugh Foundation announced in August their decision to give the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor $1 million over the next three years to expand and renovate campus facilities for the College of Visual and Performing Arts. “We are delighted that the Eula Mae and John Baugh Foundation has stepped forward to take the lead on this important new project,” said President Randy O’Rear. “We have enjoyed a warm relationship with the Baugh family for many years, and we are gratified that their interest in the fine arts and their commitment to higher education have led to this wonderful gift for UMHB.” The Eula Mae and John Baugh Foundation was established in 1995 by John F. Baugh and his wife, Eula Mae, to continue their philanthropic efforts beyond their own lifetimes. Baugh was the co-founder of Sysco Corporation, which he developed into the world’s largest food service company. John and Eula Mae were well known for their generous support of higher education and Texas Baptist causes. Today their daughter, Babs Baugh, serves as president of the foundation and has continued their legacy of supporting Baptist programs and institutions. The Baugh gift is the first step toward a much-needed expansion of visual and performing arts facilities on the campus. At present, the university’s band has no
Eula Mae and John F. Baugh of Houston established their family foundation prior to their deaths, as a means to continue their philanthropic activities beyond their own lifetimes. Remembering the Baughs’ commitment to the fine arts and to Baptist higher education, the foundation’s board has approved a gift of $1 million to support facility improvements for art and music at UMHB.
suitable place for rehearsals, because Presser Hall was designed primarily for individual music instruction. The building’s single theater, Hughes Auditorium, is an appropriate venue for recitals, but to stage operas, theater productions, and larger choral or instrumental concerts, the university must borrow a local church auditorium or rent a performance hall. And the university’s art department has thoroughly outgrown its quarters in the basement of Presser, where the lack of natural light has
always been a disadvantage. An architectural study was done in 2007 to see how Presser Hall might be best utilized, and the study concluded that the facility could be combined with new construction to provide appropriate areas for instruction and performance. University administrators plan to take those findings a step further beginning this fall, to decide what those facilities should look like, where they should be located, and when the project can begin. UMHB LIFE | 5
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Parker House renovation opens way for museum and alumni center The time has arrived when a university museum and alumni center will finally be a reality at UMHB. Board of Trustees Chairman Andy Davis announced in June that the university will construct a new campus home for the president and his family and will convert the current residence into a longawaited museum and alumni center. The building will be called the Musick Alumni Center and Museum at the Parker House, in recognition of the 1988 gift of Dee and JoAn Musick, who provided funding to build the original structure. The center will house alumni association offices and space for receptions and special events, plus exhibit space for artifacts and documents related to the university’s history. “We are excited to have a home on campus where our alumni can gather and spend time with each other in a comfortable setting enhanced by the presence of UMHB historical exhibits. We have a rich heritage and are blessed
to have the opportunity to share it with alumni and the campus community,” said Alumni Association Director Rebecca O’Banion.
A practical solution The board’s decision to build a new residence came after several months of study on renovations needed at the home known as the Parker House, which was built in 1989. Following an architectural study, the trustees determined it was more practical to build a new house on another site and utilize the Parker House for an alternative purpose. “Though the Parker House is sound, it was designed with open spaces for entertaining large groups on the ground floor and with living quarters upstairs for the family,” said Davis. “We knew that we needed to add some living space, since our incoming president’s family has more children living at home than did the last two presidents’ families.” The location of the house also raised
The staff of the Alumni Association plans to move into new quarters at the Parker House this fall. 6 | UMHB LIFE
concerns. “We realized that what was originally conceived as a home at the edge of the campus is now at the heart of a very busy area,” Davis said. “The planned expansion of visual and performing arts facilities in that area and the City of Belton’s plans to connect 9th Avenue to Loop 121 will all bring additional traffic to the corner of 9th and King in the years to come.” Easy access to thoroughfares and parking make the location well suited for a museum and center for alumni.
Preserving and sharing history The new center will meet a longstanding need for appropriate space to display and properly preserve UMHB’s museum collection, which was placed into storage when its former location in the Mabee Student Center was renovated in 1993. “In my 18 years as president, the question I have heard most often from alumni is, ‘When are we going to have a museum again?’” said Chancellor Jerry G. Bawcom. “The layout of the Parker House will make it the perfect place for our museum collection, and the location will allow it to serve a dual purpose as a central gathering place for alumni as well.” The museum collection was first displayed on campus in 1945 in a thirdfloor room of Wells Science Hall. In the 1970s, the collection was placed on display again on the second floor of the Mabee Student Center. During these years, the university became a member of the Texas Association of Museums, a membership it has been maintained to this day, in the hope that one day appropriate space for a museum would be found on the campus.
Beebe named museum curator Betty Sue Craven Beebe ’61 has accepted a new position as museum curator in the Musick Alumni Center and Museum at the Parker House. Beebe has worked for the university for the past 28 years—first as the director of the Alumni Office and in more recent years as director of alumni development for the Office of External Relations. “Betty Sue’s knowledge of our history and her personal relationships with hundreds of alumni give her a unique perspective on the impact our university has had on people around the globe,” said President Randy O’Rear. “We are delighted that she is willing to step into this new role at the university.” Betty Sue retired from full-time employment and began her new parttime role as museum curator on June 10. Her work with the museum will fall under the direction of the Alumni Office, headed by alumni director Rebecca O’Banion; together they will work to convert the Parker House into the new Musick Alumni Center and Museum. Work to convert the house at 9th and King began this summer with the goal of completing the downstairs meeting rooms by Homecoming; the upstairs museum galleries will take a few months more to complete. At the trustees’ initiative, work will commence immediately to draw up plans for a new president’s home, in the hope that it can be constructed and made ready to occupy within the next 12 months.
Baseball commissioner Bud Selig signs baseballs and programs for young fans following the McLane Lecture.
Selig hits a home run with crowd at annual McLane Lecture Bud Selig, Commissioner of Major League Baseball, spoke at the annual McLane Lecture in April. Addressing more than 600 people in the Mayborn Campus Center, the commissioner spoke on the topic, “Baseball as a Social Institution.” During a question-and-answer period, he addressed concerns about performance-enhancing drug use and testing and the possibility of baseball’s future expansion. Selig also spoke about the steps baseball is taking to ensure that it will remain an affordable product in the wake of the recent economic downturn. Following the lecture, Commissioner Selig talked with local media and took time to sign baseballs for a mob of fans. Allan H. (Bud) Selig was named the ninth Commissioner of Baseball
on July 9, 1998, by a unanimous vote of the 30 Major League Baseball club owners. Prior to his election as baseball’s commissioner, Selig served as chairman of the Executive Council and was the central figure in Major League Baseball’s organizational structure dating back to September 1992. Selig has led the way toward implementation of many of the game’s structural changes, including the Wild Card playoff format, Interleague Play, realignment, restoration of the rulebook strike zone and consolidation of the leagues’ administrative functions. The McLane Lecture is underwritten each year by the chairman of the McLane Group and CEO of the Houston Astros, Mr. Drayton McLane, Jr., and is sponsored by the College of Business. —Carol Woodward UMHB LIFE | 7
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Marlo Collins
Weathersbee chosen to lead Student Life Dr. Byron Weathersbee has been named Vice President for Student Life. According to Senior Vice President for Administration Steve Theodore, Byron is a man with a passion for working with college students. “Byron was one of the speakers during our student leadership conference at Independence in the spring. This gave him tremendous insight into the types of student leaders we have, and I am confident he will make a positive impact on our campus,” said Theodore. Dr. Weathersbee has served as a lecturer for Baylor University’s Health, Human Performance, and Recreation Department, teaching both graduate and undergraduate courses. He also served for several years as the interim University Chaplain and as the Sports Chaplain at Baylor. Weathersbee and his wife, Carla, co-founded Legacy Family Ministries in 1995. The focus of the ministry is 8 | UMHB LIFE
to pass on Biblical principles from one generation to another by providing marriage preparation for pre-engaged and engaged couples. They also co-authored Before Forever: How Do You Know that You Know?, a book for seriously dating couples. Weathersbee earned his Bachelor of Science degree at Baylor University, his Master of Education at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and his doctorate degree in Educational Leadership at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Around the campus Keeping it affordable: in the face of current concerns about the national economy, the UMHB Board of Trustees approved a tuition increase of just $30 per credit hour for 200910. The average cost of attendance for resident students increased just 3.5 percent from last fall, the lowest percentage of increase in more than ten years. Trustees voted to keep
the room and board rate and other academic fees the same as in 200809, with no increase, in an effort to keep the cost of attending the university as affordable as it could be. “We recognize the difficult times facing many of our students and their families, and we tried to be very responsive to this when establishing tuition rates and the scholarship budget,” said President O’Rear. The slight tuition increase has not had any effect on the projected enrollment for fall. At press time, the number of students enrolled for fall indicated that this year’s freshman class should be the largest in the history of the university. Amy O’Connell McGilvray ’93, MBA’97 returned to the role of registrar in June. Amy became assistant registrar in 1995 and was later promoted to registrar in 2000. She left in 2001 when her husband’s job took them out of state. During her years away from the
Jesus, portrayed by Luke Beasley of Red Oak, sits talking with “the little children” during the 70th annual Easter Pageant presented in April.
UMHB, Amy served as assistant registrar at Wake Technical Community College (WTCC) in Raleigh, North Carolina. In 2003, she returned to Texas where she served as assistant registrar at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio (UTHSCSA) and was later promoted to registrar. Brent Burks ’04, MEd ’06 has been selected to be director of admissions and recruiting for the university. Burks was very active in campus activities during his undergraduate years at UMHB, excelling academically and lettering in both football and golf. He became an admissions counselor after his graduation in 2004, and he has served as associate director of admissions and recruiting since 2006. Randy Yandell ’99 has been promoted to director of graphic services for the university. Upon graduation, Yandell started working as the university’s first printing coordinator and has served in that position for 10 years, processing all professionally printed materials for the university – from the catalog to posters to books.
The President’s Award for meritorious service went to Amelia Casey of Allen and Elliott Powell of Allen during Commencement held on May 9. The 153rd graduating class included 280 earning bachelor’s degrees and 27 who had completed master’s degrees.
Dr. Aida Smith Sapp ’80 was selected as the 2009 Nurse of the Year by the Texas Nurses Association, District 7. Dr. Sapp is a professor in the College of Nursing, and she also has a private mental health practice where she has provided counseling to families and individuals for over twenty years. Sapp has been with the university since 2006. She earned her B.S.N from UMHB, her M.S.N, in psychiatric/ mental health nursing and Ph.D. with a focus in nursing both from UT Austin.
Eight faculty were approved for promotion in May. The faculty approved to receive promotions were Dr. Carolyn Allemand, professor of education; Dr. Sarah Brown, professor of English; Dr. Lon Chaffin, professor of music; Dr. David Chrisman, professor of history; Dr. Steve Crawford, professor of music; Helen Kwiatkowski, professor of art; Kathy Owens, assistant professor of communications; and Dr. Jamey Plunk, professor of exercise and sports science. UMHB LIFE | 9
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‘An evening to remember’ Alumni and friends honor Bawcoms with gifts and fond memories In a true spirit celebration, Dr. and Mrs. Bawcom were honored during a black-tie banquet on April 22 for their years of service to the university. More than 700 friends of the Bawcoms gathered in the Mayborn Campus Center, which had been transformed into a grand banquet hall, to pay tribute to the Bawcom’s dedication and leadership. The UMHB Jazz Ensemble provided dinner music as guests enjoyed a slide show of Bawcom photos spanning 18 years. After the meal, a parade of people made their way to the stage to present gifts and relate stories of their experiences with Dr. Bawcom through the years. The audience heard from each of the five vice presidents about the tremendous changes and improvements in academic, physical facilities, beautification and student activities, but also the very personal side of Dr. Bawcom. Vice President for Business and Finance Edd Martin noted that Dr. Bawcom’s caring attitude toward employees and students had created a “family” atmosphere on the campus. “Being a student at UMHB, being a faculty member, being an in-law or an outlaw or anything else makes you a part of Jerry Bawcom’s family,” he said. Three gifts were presented to Bawcoms during the course of the evening. Cindy Breaux Roberts ’09, president of the Alumni Association, presented 10 | UMHB LIFE
gifts on behalf of the university’s alumni: a platinum chapel logo ring for Dr. Bawcom and a diamond pendant for Mrs. Bawcom. Andy Davis, representing the Board of Trustees, presented a gift of an allexpenses-paid vacation to England and Normandy France. The trip was one the Bawcoms had long desired to take, since Dr. Bawcom’s father had been part of the WWII landing at Normandy. The final gift of the evening was a lighted crystal sculpture of Luther Memorial, which was a gift from the university faculty and staff. Vice President for Student Life Steve Theodore concluded his remarks by noting, “A wise man once said, ‘As you are leading, every once in a while you need to turn around and see if anyone is following. If no one is following, you’re not leading; you are simply on a walk!’ Dr. Bawcom, take a look around. You have led well!” —Carol Woodward
Clockwise, from right: Dr. and Mrs. Bawcom smile for the camera; Dr. Bawcom’s twin brother, Dr. Terry Bawcom, shares memories from their childhood; trustee Martha Cooper gives her best wishes to the President and First Lady; guests enjoy table talk over dinner; One Voice vocalists sing, “God Is All Around Us”; members of the UMHB Jazz Ensemble wow the audience with their dinner music; and Alumni Association President Cindy Breaux Roberts presents gifts of appreciation to the President and First Lady.
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Day without shoes raises student awareness, funds for third world
president, said he was behind the proposal from the beginning. As he participated in Sole to Soul, donning a suit but no shoes, he recogincluding a plan to put shoes on chilStudents gained a little better undernized it as an experience that made dren’s feet in an orphanage in Haiti. standing of how many in the world live him feel uncomfortable, awkward and When the event rolled around in when they recently went barefoot for self-conscious. one day this spring to identify with chil- mid-April, the entire campus knew to “I certainly felt odd that morning,” shed their shoes for the first Sole to Soul dren in developing countries who have Theodore said. “From the moment day. Students, faculty and staff were no shoes. I crawled out of bed, when I would encouraged to “look past themselves The idea grew out of a conversation normally put on house shoes to go get for just one day,” as they went shoebetween football player Max Taylor and Student Body President Tatenda Tavaziva less to simulate life for children around the paper, I didn’t. “Later, I had to take my car into the the globe who go without many daily as they stood in line for lunch one day. shop. So I parked my car and walked necessities. They realized they shared a desire to do through the gravel parking lot, which Taylor, a sophomore business something that would be meaningful was quite painful. Then I walked into and could get the entire campus involved, management major, targeted shoes for the shop, and the first things the guy needy children, but he also hoped the including faculty and staff. saw were my bare feet. I am wearing a tie event would touch hearts and minds. By the time their sandwiches were and not shoes. The guy started laughing “Yes, shoes are something we take delivered, their ideas were in place, and asked, ‘Where are your shoes?’ And for granted often, and people don’t it became an opportunity to tell him understand how it is to walk without what we are doing at UMHB.” shoes, but (the event) is more than Although the final count of particijust people not wearing them. It goes pants was hard to estimate, there were deeper. It’s about understanding how many in this world go without necessi- barefoot students and faculty in every ties. So, it might take someone stepping classroom, in chapel, in the dining hall and walking across campus throughout on something that hurts to open their the day. eyes,” he said. Those who chose not to shed shoes Despite the potential impact, were encouraged to donate $10 to buy many small hurdles associated with a pair of shoes for a child in the Hope the shoes activity popped up, and for the Hungry Foundation’s Haiti Tavaziva wondered if the idea would orphanage. turn into reality. Donations totaled more than $2,500, “I loved his (Taylor’s) heart, but in and four large boxes of shoes were my mind, knowing the work it would prepared for shipping to Haiti. take to spread the word, to get people Taylor hopes to use Sole to Soul as a to commit, and to gain permission to be steppingstone for his future plans. barefoot in classrooms and the dining “Right now, all I can think about is hall, I thought ‘no way.’ But I told him, the people in Haiti we are going to help,” as president, I would at least ask about Taylor said. “Maybe one day, I can take it,” he said. Sole to Soul nationwide and will be able To his surprise, university adminisDr. Steve Theodore talks with Student to help many more.” Body President Tatenda Tavaziva about trators readily approved. — Jena Coulson and Carol Woodward Dr. Steve Th eodore, executive vice the success of Sole to Soul day. 12 | UMHB LIFE
PHILANTHROPY
Madge Mao Meyer helps Dr. Jerry Bawcom cut the purple ribbon at the grand opening of the university’s newly expanded Information Technology Suite in the Sanderford Building
Alumna’s success in computer technology leads to gift for IT suite Alumna Madge Mao Meyer returned Asia-Pacific and the Americas. In 2004, Meyer was named to to campus in April for the grand openComputerworld’s Premier 100 ing of UMHB’s expanded Information Technology Suite in the Sanderford Building. To recognize Meyer’s generous gift to the project, the IT Suite was officially dedicated to the memory of her parents, Nai-Ying née Chang and PeiChing Mao. The renovation project combined A luncheon was held on March 13 the old IT offices with an area previto celebrate the establishment of the ously used as the President’s Suite. Gordon and Abbie Wiggers Endowed The new data center features an Scholarship. Although neither of updated computer infrastructure for the Wiggers attended UMHB, the the university as well as additional Belton residents said that they have offices for IT staff. developed a love and passion for the Meyer was quite at home as she took university and its quest for excellence a tour of the technological improvein higher education. ments afforded by the renovation. As Gordon holds a business adminisexecutive vice president and head of tration degree from Hastings College global infrastructure services at State in Hastings, Nebraska. Abbie received Street Corporation in New York, she is her nurse’s training at the University responsible for State Street’s technolof Houston and Hermann Hospital ogy infrastructure solutions and services in Houston, Texas. Gordon serves on across Europe, the Middle East, Africa,
list, which honors individuals who have had a positive impact on their organization through technology, and in 2007 she was named to the YWCA Boston’s Academy of Women Achievers. In 2008, she received the Visionary Award from Symantec in recognition of her innovative use of technology to meet business needs. The Computerworld Honors Program celebrated her technological leadership by naming her as a Laureate in 2008 and 2009, and also honored her team at State Street Corporations with the magazines’s 21st Century Achievement Award.
Wiggers endow new scholarship for nursing students
the UMHB Board of Trustees. He and Abbie are both active members and leaders at First Baptist Church of Belton. The Wiggers established the endowed scholarship in honor of their two children, Dawn and Kurt, and in memory of their deceased children: unnamed twin daughters and son Dan Lewis Wiggers. The scholarship will provide financial assistance for nursing students who attend UMHB.
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IN THE FALL OF 1985 HE ENROLLED TO EARN A DEGREE; THIS FALL, RANDY O’REAR GREETS NEW STUDENTS AS PRESIDENT OF UMHB.
bbyy Paula Price Tanner
E
ighteen people crowd around the long boardroom table, assembling their notes, scanning agendas, and exchanging teasing jibes with their neighbors. They are an interesting mix of personalities—some gregarious and outspoken, others more serious and subdued. They represent all facets of campus life, from scholarly deans to financial experts to those who make sure that dormitory renovations are finished by the time students return. All turn 14 | UMHB LIFE
their attention to the matters at hand, though, when Dr. Randy O’Rear walks into the room. The president has arrived. “Okay,” he says as he takes the chair at the table’s end, “let’s start with positive comments.” The meeting begins as one by one, the members of the President’s Council share quick accounts of people they have observed recently whose positive efforts are making UMHB a great place to be. The comments are followed by a
round of prayer requests, and the group bows for a word of prayer, giving thanks for the many good people mentioned and asking comfort and strength for those in need. The prayer ends with murmurs of “amen,” down the length of the table. Then pens are uncapped and reading glasses go on: it’s time to discuss what’s happening this week at the university. It’s a pattern the group has followed nearly every Tuesday since June 1, when
administration. It was during those Randy O’Rear stepped into the role of and his responsibilities were increased years that he met and fell in love with president at UMHB, and the pattern as he moved from assistant director to Julie Wheeler, an MHB nursing student, reflects the hallmarks of O’Rear’s director of development. The work was and the two were married after Randy’s management style. He is a man who satisfying, but so very different from graduation in 1988. Julie still had two values prayer and careful thought as the business career he had predicted, years to finish for her degree, so Randy well as action. He terms himself a that he wasn’t sure it was his calling. accepted a position as assistant baseball “participative leader,” a team builder “The turning point came for me at who likes to surround the end of 1995,” he says. himself with the brightest “I was 30 years old, and “I KNOW THAT GOD HAS and best people he can we had three children. I GREAT THINGS IN STORE find. He expects his wondered whether it was FOR MARY HARDIN-BAYLOR, advisors to shoot straight time to make a change. I with him; when differences shared my concerns with AND IT’S EXCITING TO KNOW arise, he encourages open Dr. Bawcom, and I had WE ARE GOING TO BE debate but also makes significant and lengthy A PART OF THEM.” it clear that he expects conversations with Dr. nothing less than positive, George Walther, who had coach for the Crusaders, since it would professional behavior. People who work been my mentor in the business school. for him describe him as “tough, but help pay his young wife’s tuition. Both of them encouraged me to go back fair”–and also as one of the most funThey assumed that, once Julie and pursue graduate work, to prepare loving people you’d ever wish to meet. completed her degree, Randy would for a career in administration.” And those who have worked by his side move into a career in business. “My “Julie and I prayed our way through during his 20 years at UMHB will tell mom was a nurse, and my dad was a that Christmas holiday, and it became you that there is no one who loves the business man. They both were wonderful a real turning point for us. I sensed university more or is more committed role models, and they brought me up in God was saying, ‘It’s time for you to go to her bright future than Randy O’Rear. a strong Christian home,” O’Rear recalls. back to school.’ And I knew right then, “So I figured that Julie and I would if I was going to go back, I was not going to stop at the master’s; I was going PATH TO THE PRESIDENCY be very much like them. I thought I’d get my degree, get out into corporate to pursue the doctorate. I felt I was A true son of Mary Hardin-Baylor, America, and find some opportunities. truly being led on a path for a career in O’Rear is the first graduate of UMHB I thought I would leave when Julie higher education administration.” to serve as president of the university. graduated, but when the time came, “So after that point, I never had A graduate of Robinson High School Dr. Parker encouraged me to stay.” any thoughts of leaving. I felt that near Waco, he enrolled at MHB after President Bobby Parker saw potenGod clearly demonstrated through completing two years at Bee County tial in the young O’Rear and persuaded actions and other people that I was College. He was recruited to MHB to him to move into work play baseball and earned All-Conference as a university fundraiser. and All-District honors as a pitcher O’Rear brought aptitude and infielder for the Crusaders while and energy to the work, completing his degree in business
President O’Rear confers with Dr. Derek Davis, Dean of the College of Humanities. One of O’Rear’s Àrst steps as president was to broaden the membership of his President’s Council so that the deans of all seven colleges would be included. UMHB LIFE | 15
“The family that plays together, stays together”: golf is the sport of choice in the O’Rear family, where everyone enjoys playing the game. Pictured with Julie and Randy, left to right, are Ryan (18), Reed (14), and Taylor (16).
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supposed to be at Mary Hardin-Baylor, and I never had second thoughts about it again.” O’Rear completed his MBA at UMHB in 1997, then went on to earn his doctorate in Higher Education Administration at Baylor University in 2004. He continued to gain experience in different areas of leadership, as associate vice president for enrollment management and as vice president for external relations. He was selected to serve as executive vice president and chief operating officer to the university in 2005, and in that role he assumed ultimate responsibility for student life, athletics, business and finance, and external relations activities of the university. With his range of experience and his successful track record, O’Rear
had credentials that would impress any presidential search committee. Although there have been a number of openings at the top of Baptist universities in recent years, O’Rear stayed focused on MHB. “I knew that a presidential transition was coming in the future at UMHB,” O’Rear says. “There were never any guarantees that the board would select me as the next president of Mary Hardin-Baylor. But I wanted to find that out before I looked someplace else. My heart just wasn’t interested in pursuing other opportunities unless this board made a decision that I wasn’t the right fit.” When Dr. Bawcom announced last fall his intention to step down from the presidency, the trustees moved quickly
The cover of this fall’s magazine is the second one to feature Randy and Julie O’Rear; in 1995, when Randy was director of development, they were shown promoting a Homecoming theme which encouraged alumni to mark memorable spots on campus with purple ribbons.
and decisively in selecting O’Rear to be the next president. Their action was unusual in an era when presidential transitions usually involve lengthy searches punctuated by interim presidents. But the board had had ample time to observe O’Rear in action and felt confident he was the right man to continue the successes achieved during the Bawcom years. For Randy and Julie O’Rear, the choice confirmed what they had long felt in their hearts—that their future would be entwined with that of the university. “It’s not just that I bleed purple,” O’Rear says. “Both Julie and I have experienced a Mary Hardin-Baylor education firsthand. Julie is just as sold on the university as I am; it is wonderful to see the passion she has for service, for making a difference in the lives of others at MHB. ” “And it makes us happy to see how our children share our sense of excitement about this new role we will have at the university. Ryan and Taylor and Reed have grown up on this campus—we even lived here on the campus several years, when Julie was working as a residence hall director and I was working on my doctorate. UMHB is really a family thing for us. The kids feel a sense of pride and ownership, too—they love the Cru!” The family’s move back to campus will be a little bit different this time around. In recent years they have resided nearby in Salado, a 15-minute drive from the Belton campus. This fall, eldest son Ryan (18) will be moving
to Waco to begin college; a three-time individual state champion in men’s golf, he was heavily recruited and accepted a scholarship to play on the Baylor University golf team. Taylor (16) and Reed (14) will move to Belton with their mom and dad but will commute back to Salado High School so they can graduate with the friends they have made there. The family’s two golden retrievers, Sandy and Monty, will be making the move, as well. “That was Reed’s only concern about the new job—that the dogs might not get to live on the campus.” O’Rear says with a grin. “So we have a signed agreement: the dogs are coming, too!”
ON THE HORIZON Since the board’s unanimous decision last fall to name him president, O’Rear has been leading a team of top-level scholars and administrators in a series of “visioning” sessions, to discuss how the university should grow in the years to come to fulfill its mission and be the best it can be. Under his leadership, deans have been working with representatives from student life, information technology, business and finance, facility services and fundraising to discuss who the university serves and how they might be better served. The goal is to articulate a common goal that faculty and administration can use as a guide when setting budgets, planning building projects, or doing strategic planning
for the university as a whole. “We are working this summer to boil these discussions down into a vision statement, and we hope to use it as a basis for interaction with the greater campus community this fall,” O’Rear says. “It has been an exciting process. And for me it’s an opportunity to continue learning—I get to be with brilliant people each week, and I learn great things from each of them. As we talk about the opportunities we have for the university’s continued growth and excellence, it’s really exciting.” In the meantime, O’Rear acknowledges that the path he must take is clear. “I have known from the first that, as president, I have several responsibilities that will not change. I need to build a unified leadership team that makes good decisions, that is student-centered and focused on being true to our mission of Christian higher education, with a focus on great teaching and learning. I need to make sure that we are always hiring great faculty members and administrators who are committed to our Christian mission.” (continued on page 27) UMHB LIFE | 17
Students learn the importance of sharing the Gospel with young people during a mission trip to the UK by Jenna Coulson
M
ary Hardin-Baylor has a long and rich tradition of preparing missionaries for work in foreign mission fields, so it should come as no surprise that a foreign missions trip this year drew 33 students and staff abroad to share the Gospel. What might seem odd is that their destination was Great Britain, a country which most Americans would assume is one where Christian teachings are already well known. But the UMHB group had learned that the beautiful cathedrals and churches of England are largely a testament to times past. Today, Britain is known as a “post-Christian” society, where relatively few participate in religious activities. A 2003 survey conducted for the British government found that only 18 percent of the people consider themselves a practicing member of any organized religion; a European Social Survey in 2009 revealed that only 12 percent of the British people belong to a church. So when University Chaplain George Loutherback began searching for a mission opportunity that would not require any specialized knowledge on the part of participants, the efforts of a group called Youth for Christ on the northeast coast of England looked like a wonderful choice. A first UK mission trip organized in 2008 was so successful that a second trip to the same location was organized this spring. The student missionaries 18 | UMHB LIFE
returned to the British community of Middlesbrough, to work with teens and school children there. “This year we took four teams,” said Dr. Loutherback. “Two were able to go back to previous locations and continue relationships started in 2008, and two went to new locations.” The student groups split into teams to cover different locations. They partnered with churches to help with needed maintenance. They taught religious education classes in schools. They also developed personal relationships with people, which they hope will continue into the future. “We did whatever we could to strengthen the church’s ability to reach the community,” Loutherback said. Interested in how children in England view Christianity, Dr. Loutherback polled a small group of students he met when visiting a religion class. Six of the children had never been to a church, and two had not gone to church more than once. “A lot of the churches are mostly older folks. They are going to have to reach this younger generation, or they are going to have empty buildings in 25 years,” he said. Youth and College Minister Trey Bledsoe from Canyon Creek Baptist Church in Temple accompanied the
group and led a team in Middlesbrough for the second year in a row. “We are definitely influencing for the Kingdom, because the things we prayed for in previous years are becoming a reality,” Bledsoe said. The trip provided encouragement to people in the U.K., but it also was a beneficial experience for the UMHB students themselves. Bledsoe said going overseas gives college students a new perspective and lets them see that Christianity is universal. “This realization helps them to look deeper at the world; it gets them focused on the big picture and not on the idea that ‘it’s all about me,’” he said. “The biggest thing for me was getting involved in a different culture,” said senior EXSS major Kyle Grimes. “The church that hosted us was unbelievable. So many churches seem to be focused inward, but the church is supposed to be going out to those who do not believe. I have never seen a better example of that than in this church.” “Missions helps you come out of your shell,” said senior mass communications major Andra Holbrooks. “You let your hair down and learn a lot about yourself and your faith and grow,” she said. “For me, this trip yielded lessons on patience, especially with children,” she
In addition to touring British landmarks (above), students worked with children in local schools.
said. “ I had to learn how to share the Gospel in a way they would understand.” Holbrooks said it was encouraging to see the church’s progress since the year before. “It was amazing to see all the changes from the previous time. The first year, St. Mary’s church didn’t have a secondary school youth group, and this year it did,” she said. “It was our team’s goal to encourage the British young people to become more involved with church activities and to truly believe. It’s crucial for them to come to know about God and His son, Jesus. Without the children, Christianity could truly die in the United Kingdom.”
Senior Kyle Grimes cheers members of his youth group to victory. Below, Brett Meyers here talks with children about his life in the U.S. (Photos by Trey Bledsoe)
UMHB LIFE | 19
ALUMNI LIFE
Members of the class of 2009 were all smiles as they were welcomed into the alumni association in May. Alumni Life reports news received February 16, 2009 through June 15, 2009. If you have news to share, send it to: Alumni Relations, UMHB Box 8427, 900 College Street, Belton, Texas 76513 or send via email to alumni@umhb.edu
1940s Lee Holcomb Means ’47 was honored at the Lee H. Means Elementary School Building Dedication Ceremony and Texas Public Schools Week Opening on March 9 in Harlingen. She taught for 48 years and served on the Harlingen school board for nine years, holding the offices of secretary, vice president and president.
20 | UMHB LIFE
1970s
1980s
Helen Wilson Harris ’75 was given the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Waco Branch of NASW in March. This is the highest award given by NASW chapters.
Aida Smith Sapp ’80 has been selected as the 2009 Nurse of the Year by Texas Nurses Association District 7. She is an associate professor of nursing at UMHB and has a clinical practice at Counselors of Texas (formerly Schaffer & Associates) in Temple and Killeen as an advanced practice nurse. Aida is a clinical nurse specialist with board certification in adult psychiatric and mental health nursing and a license in marriage and family therapy.
The Janice Muehlstein Caldwell Memorial Nursing Scholarship has been set up in memory of Janice Caldwell ’79. First preference for the scholarship will be given to nursing students entering their fi rst clinical nursing course. The fi rst award from this scholarship will be made in the fall of 2010. Classmates who would like to contribute to the scholarship may send gifts to UMHB Box 4600, 900 College St., Belton, TX 76513. Karen Riley Scott ’79 has written a book of poems and prayers to Jesus titled “Dear Lord” that has been published by Author House.
Elizabeth Bertram Gonzales ’87 received her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree at University of Texas Health Science Center at the Houston School of Nursing on May 8. She was awarded the Scholar Award for her capstone project entitled, “Implementing a Sepsis Program in a Community Setting Hospital.” Elizabeth is manager of the Methodist Hospital Sugar Land Nurse Practitioner Program and an adjunct instructor at the UT School of Nursing at Houston.
1990s
2000s
Dottie Parker Kyle ’90 and her husband, Bill, celebrated their 50th anniversary on April 11.
Alice Kerr Pomeroy ’00 retired from the Army after 20 years and teaches the second grade talented and gifted program at Clarke Elementary School in the Killeen Independent School District. Alice established a science club for second and third graders and a math club for struggling third graders. She organized a parent’s night out at the local mall in November so spouses of deployed soldiers would have a night of their own while their children participated in an array of activities.
Mayra Velez ’91 was presented the 2009 Time Warner Cable Spotlight on Education Award on May 21 at the Harris Community Center in Belton. The award is for innovative use of cable television and technology in the classroom. Her class entry, titled “Home Economics 101,” was forwarded to compete in the Time Warner Cable National Teacher award, the Crystal Apple. She is a third-grade bilingual teacher at Southwest Elementary School in Belton Independent School District. Shannon Camp Gish ’93 received Teacher of the Year at Joe M. Pirtle Elementary School in the Belton Independent School District. Ammie Northrup Bradley ’95 received a master’s degree in Elementary Education from Southern Connecticut State University on May 28. She teaches kindergarten at Melissa Jones School in Guilford, Connecticut. Ammie may be reached at 11 Schoolside Lane, Guilford, CT 06437 or joeammie@yahoo.com. Kathy Parsons Sartor ’95 teaches fifth grade math at Marlin Elementary School and received the KWTX News 10 Golden Apple Award. She has been in education for 27 years, 17 with Marlin Independent School District. Scott Alarcon MHS ’99 was named chief executive officer for the Georgetown Health Foundation. He has served as director of the Georgetown Cancer Treatment Center at Georgetown Hospital and as chief operating officer there. Amanda Johnson Lufburrow ’99 received a master’s in Theological Studies from Harvard Divinity School on June 4.
Leigh Wright Bowen ’03 and her husband, Bo, are missionary teachers at Black Forest Academy in Germany. Terri Oldham ’03 was given Social Worker of the Year for 2009 by the Waco Branch of NASW in March. Sam Callaway MA ’05 has been elected to serve as the fi rst pastor of Anchor of Hope Fellowship in Killeen. He has been in the ministry for 33 years. Sam is also a licensed professional counseling intern and serves as treasurer of the Southern Baptists of Central Texas Association. Brittany Phillips ’07 is serving as a Cooperative Baptist Fellowship representative in Chengdu, China. She was commissioned in 2008 for a two-year term. Brittany teaches the first Sunday School class for college students at a church that was started more than a year ago. Nora Dowdy Swingler ex is the oldest living graduate of Albany High School. She celebrated her 100th birthday on August 24, 2008.
WEDDINGS Gina Agold ’94, MHS ’99 to A.G. “Pete” Krause, March 7. Elizabeth Lee Halbert ’00 to Michael Todd Thigpen, March 6, in Waco. Katheryn Joy Featherston ’03 to Gregory Dee Fondren, February 28, in Dallas. Katheryn is employed by Fossil, Inc. in Dallas, and Gregory is employed by McAfee, Inc. in Frisco. Byron Michael Koen ’03 to Deana Arlone Sabourin, December 31, in Wichita Falls. Byron is employed by Michael E. Koen, Architect, Inc., is co-owner of K Salon and is a licensed massage therapist, and Deana is a licensed cosmetologist, a professional makeup artist and co-owner of K Salon.
Jennifer Annette Zavodny ’03 to John David Foster, June 6, in Temple. Jennifer is a registered nurse at Scott & White Hospital in Temple, and John is the statewide programs officer for the State Soil and Water Conservation Board. Crystal Lynn Carpenter ’05 to Kevin Edward Seiford, March 7, in San Antonio. Crystal teaches kindergarten for Judson Independent School District, and Kevin is employed by USAA. Brianna Nicole Rodriguez ’05 to Bryan Andrew Pietrowski, March 7, in Troy. Brittney Dickey ’06 to Derik Melton, May 23, in Pflugerville. Rebecca Nibbe ’06 to Aaron Sims, October 4, in Highlands.
Melissa Kaye McAdams ’07 and William Chad Green ’08, April 18, in Salado. Melissa is employed in accounting at E.R. Carpenter Company in Temple, and William is a registered nurse at Scott & White Hospital in Temple. Suzanne Dodd ’08 and Jonathan Wible ’08, May 16, in Lago Vista. Suzanne is employed by Baylor University in the Office of Institutional Research and Testing, and Jonathan is employed by McLane Company in Temple. Jennifer Gail Harper ’08 to Dean Lee Butenschoen, current student, May 23, in Waco. Shannon Diane Lynch ’08 and Dustin Keith McCain ’07, August 23, in Austin. Shannon is employed with the Office of Sponsored Research at Scott & White Hospital in Temple, and Dustin is a financial analyst at Scott & White Hospital. Brittany Meganne Marks ’08 to Jordan Guy Dixon, May 9, in Salado. Brittany and Jordan are employed by Acer Service Corporation. Sandra Munoz ’08 to Marcelo Aguillon, April 18, in Temple. Sandra is employed by the Social Security Administration in Temple, and Marcelo is employed by Milam County Sheriff ’s Department and is in the United States Air Force reserves.
UMHB LIFE | 21
ALUMNI L I F E Kalaya Minatra Riccio ’96 and her husband, Matthew, announce the birth of their daughter, Brigid Pearl, March 3. She joins big sisters Sarina and Lavaery. They may be reached at P.O. Box 777, Blessing, TX 77419 or kalayar@hotmail.com.
Kristin Bauer ’09 to Randall Housley, May 16, in New Braunfels. Amy Sue Chasteen ’09 to Andrew Alan Raines, May 31, in Woodway. Amy is a licensed massage therapist, and Andrew is employed by East Texas Medical Center. Brittany Nicole Elkins ’09 to Bradley Wentz, May 23, in Florence. Brittany is employed at Unique Pharmaceuticals of Temple, and Bradley is employed with Vector Force of Huntsville, AL. Amy Elizabeth Elliott ’09 and Tyson Cole McLaughlin ’09, March 14, in Belton. Shannon Rae Markwood ’09 to Jason Dwight Johnson, May 30, in Temple. Shannon is a registered nurse at Scott & White Hospital in Temple, and Jason is attending UMHB and is employed by iZone in Temple. Christopher David Coker ex to Kathryn Elaine Shoemaker, May 9, in Temple. Christopher is serving in the U.S. Navy as an airman at the Naval Air Station in Corpus Christi, and Kathryn is attending UMHB.
BIRTHS Doyle Walker ’72 and his wife, Cathy, announce the birth of their grandson, Jake Reed, November 2.
Nellie Longoria Walter ’92 and her husband, Robert, announce the birth of their triplets, Austin Santiago, Matthew Robert and Emily Noelani, November 8 in Honolulu, Hawaii. They may be reached at 120 Prestwick Dr., Dothan, AL 36305.
22 | UMHB LIFE
Sarah Wells Stallberg ’97 and her husband, Lance, announce the birth of their son, Reed Jeff rey, October 2. They may be reached at scw55@hotmail.com. Alan ’97-’99 and Sue Ellen Pipes Hale ’95 announce the birth of their daughter, Rebekah Leigh, April 7. She joins big brother David and big sister Elizabeth. They may be reached at 11748 FM 2258, Grandview, TX 76050 or sesells@ verizon.net. Amy Austin Wick ’97 and her husband, Scott, announce the birth of their daughter, Cambry Ellen Grace, January 21. She joins big brother Austin. Amy is a stayat-home mom, and Scott is an associate vice president for Safeco Insurance Company. They may be reached at 10178 Hamblet Ct., Union, KY 41091 or wicksntx@yahoo.com. Anita Lee Tramonte ’98 and her husband, Paul, announce the birth of their twins, Samuel Paul and Sophia Francesca, September 4. They join big brother Ethan. Jeremy ’99 and Merritt McKinnon Johnston ’00 announce the birth of their son, Josiah Glynn, October 23.
Clarissa Corona-Davis ’01 and her husband, Gary, announce the birth of their sons, Gavin David, May 3, 2008, and Garyson Aaron, April 1, 2009. They join big sister Gabriella. Clarissa is a stay-at-home mom, owns Ladybug Creations and sells Avon. Gary is a track supervisor for Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad. They may be reached at coachcdavis@yahoo.com. 2 Darbi Winsman Tidwell ’01 and her husband, Blu, announce the birth of their son, Cason Mark, November 24. He joins big brother Caedmon and big sister Cambree. Darbi and Blu are preparing to return to Zambia to start the New Day Orphanage. They may be reached at blutidwell@sbcglobal.net. Erica Sparks Boutwell ’02 and her husband, Stephen, announce the birth of their son, Bennett Parker, March 5. He joins big brother Bishop Anthony. Alissa Loyd Mains ’02 and her husband, Sean, announce the birth of their son, Matthew Ryan, January 2. They may be reached at 1012 Muelhause St., Belton, TX 76513 or mainsspam1@yahoo.com. Nick ex and Dannyelle Pullen Turner ’02 announce the birth of their son, Ty Danny, September 10. He joins big brother Tug. They may be reached at 506 South RJ, Little River, TX 76554. Matt ’03 and Christy Hill Culli ’04 announce the birth of their son, Cayden Douglas, May 19. Matt is a sales representative for Frank Paxton Lumber Company, and Christy is a stay-at-home mom. They may be reached at 2167 Redwoods Crest, San Antonio, TX 78232 or christy_culli@yahoo.com.
Jeremy ’03 and Amanda Day Hill ’03 announce the birth of their daughter, Emily Grace, August 23. She joins big sister Ansley Christine. Jeremy is a basketball coach for Cy-Woods High School, and Amanda is a stay-athome mom.
DEATHS Velma Whitley Jones ’30, March 5, in Coupland. She was a teacher in public schools for 41 years and in private schools for 12 years. Velma taught in the Head Start program, in an adult education program and tutored in her home for 14 years after retiring. Theresa Woodward Cross ex ’32, May 14, in Westcliffe, Colorado. She taught for 40 years and worked in Cub Scouts. She was a longtime member of Columbus Avenue Baptist Church in Waco. Lois Watts Maedgen ’34-’36, May 1, in Mexia. She worked for Dr. Scott, Jr., at Scott and White Clinic in Temple. In Waco she worked for the Soil Conservation Service, the Veterans Hospital and in civil service at James Connally Air Force Base where she was the second woman promoted to the top civilian position at an Air Force base. Lois held responsible positions at Ft. Sam Houston, Randolph Air Force Base, MacDill Air Force Base, Air Force Labor Relations in Hampton, VA, and Air Force headquarters in Washington, DC. She was a member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Waco and Christ Episcopal Church in Mexia. Mona Jenkins Durham ’36-’37, March 24, in Amarillo. She worked for the War Department in New Orleans and Washington, DC, during World War II. After the war Mona was a bookkeeper for Southwest Investment Corporation in Amarillo for 35 years. She taught the sixyear-old Sunday School class for over 40 years at Trinity Baptist Church in Amarillo. Mabel Sasser Hughes ’37-’39, December 13, in Fort Worth. She was a secretary at White Melon Seed Farm. Mabel was a member of Terrace Acres Baptist Church in White Settlement, where she was interim organist and pianist for many years, sang in the choir, and taught Sunday School classes. Frances Davidson Ramey ’38, February 28, in Corpus Christi. She was a draughtsman, drawing up blueprints for United States military aircraft in a Los Angeles manufacturing plant during World War II. After the war she served on the school board for the Epiphany
Day School and on the altar guild at Epiphany Episcopal Church in Corpus Christi. She was a member of the Woman’s Club of Kingsville and active in private philanthropy. She established and served as the president of an investment club in Kingsville. She was a classroom mom, Cub Scout and Camp Fire Girls leader and ballet booster. Henry Curtis Inman, May 10, in Beaumont. He was the husband of Ruby Smith Inman ’41. Elizabeth Sprott Price ’43, February 20, in Miami Shores. She taught for many years in the Miami-Dade Public School System. Elizabeth was a member of Miami Shores Presbyterian Church. Mary Jane Lewis McKinzie ’44-’46, March 8, in Victoria. She taught school in Columbus and Yorktown and was a member of First United Methodist Church. Georgia Mae Little Talley ’46, April 6, in Canadian. She taught for the Canadian Independent School District for 15 years. Georgia Mae served as a UMHB trustee for many years and was instrumental in providing a variety of scholarships to the university. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Canadian and an associate member of Columbus Avenue Baptist Church in Waco. Bronwen Philip Conlon, February 13, in El Cajon, California. He was the son of Margaret “Pat” Cleghorn Conlon ’47. Otis R. Collier, April 18, in Wichita Falls. He was the husband of Mary San Miguel Collier ’52. Katherine Price ’53, March 25, in Lubbock. She taught in the Temple Independent School District at Vandiver Elementary, Jefferson Elementary and Dickson Elementary, where she became principal, and she served as the first principal of Sarah T. Thornton Elementary. Katherine was a member of First Baptist Church of Temple. Walter B. Westbrook, March 29, in Ennis. He was the son of Chris Weathers Westbrook ’53. Doris Cluck Knappenberger ’55, February 5, in Double Oak. She taught school in Texas City for 24 years and 10 years in the Lewisville Independent School District. Doris was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma and the Texas State Teachers Association. Laura Stringer McLallen ’55, May 3, in Bedford. She taught speech and English in the Belton Independent School District, Hereford
High School, and Plainview High School in Texas. She also taught in the Denver public schools in Colorado and Tyndall public schools in South Dakota. Laura was the director of faculty evaluations at the University of Texas at Austin. She then served as church secretary at Broadway Baptist Church and University Baptist Church in Fort Worth for 12 years. She was a Sunday School teacher for some 42 years, a church deacon and choir member. She went on four mission tours in other countries. Virgene McKinley Pevey ’58, March 23, in Killeen. She taught in the Killeen Independent School District for more than 30 years and was a member of Amazing Grace Fellow Church. Ellen Fusselman Sonnier ’63, April 9, in Longview. She taught English and Spanish at Longview High School from 1965 to 1972. Ruth Hendrix, October 13. She was the mother of Patsy Hendrix Ashby ’66. Margaret Hargrove Maresh ’71, April 7, in Temple. She was a teacher in Rosebud and at the State School for Boys in Gatesville. Margaret was a member of First Baptist Church in Rosebud, where she served as a Sunday School teacher, children’s music ministry leader, and choir member. She was a volunteer at Heritage House Nursing Home and was a member of the Rosebud-Lott athletic booster club. Katie Langston Cheatham ’72, June 10, in San Antonio. She worked as a counselor at Central Texas College and as a disaster relief worker for the American Red Cross. She was active at First Baptist Church of Salado, in the Salado Chamber of Commerce, Toastmasters, the Golden Age Club in Killeen, two alumni associations, the Red Hat Society, and the Newcomer’s Club in Temple. Earon Anderson Hood, March 24, in Belton. She was the mother of Linda Hood Pehl ’73. Jerry Smith ’73, April 5, in Copperas Cove. He served in command and staff assignments in the United States, Europe and Asia, including two combat tours in infantry battalions in Vietnam. He also served as chief of staff of the 3rd Armored Division in Operation Desert Storm in Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Kuwait. He served as the Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff of the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, CA and as the Deputy Director of Training on the Army Staff in the Pentagon. He retired from the United States Army in 1993 as the Chief of Staff of the Armor Center and School at Fort Knox, KY. After retiring, Jerry served as director of army instruction for the JROTC programs in Lee County, FL, then as an operations manager for General Dynamics in Saudi UMHB LIFE | 23
ALUMNI L I F E Arabia and General Dynamics manager for field services for the Abrams tank. His decorations include the Legion of Merit with 2OLC and the Bronze Star with 3OLC. He served on the board of the Fort Hood and Central Texas Chapter of the Association of the U.S. Army, as the vice president of the JROTC and Wounded Warriors programs. He was also the chairman of the Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee. Frederick Mattox ’80, April 23, in Beaumont. He was a pastor in the Beaumont area. He received the UMHB Golden Shield Award in 2002.
Terry Gilbert Bullock ’93, April 28, in Cameron. She worked as a medical technologist for Olin E. Teague Veterans Center in Temple and was a member of Grace Church in Cameron. Nellie Arredondo Garcia ’93, May 31, in Nolanville. She was retired from teaching second grade at Venable Village Elementary School in Killeen Independent School District. Evelyn P. Allen ex, April 2, in Temple. She was a lifelong member of the Church of Christ and a member of Northside Church of Christ in Temple. Lena L. Burton ex, March 4, in Tyler.
Eugene Shoemaker ’82, February 16, in Killeen. He served in the United States Army for 22 years and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, Vietnam Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal Clasp, Silver 1 Loop, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, and the Bronze Star. After his retirement Gene taught U.S. history, Texas history, and TAG for 17 years at Rancier Middle School.
Arleigh Sadler Parmele Hammond ex, March 16, in Burnet. James M. Nixon ex, May 11, in Manchaca. He was in the United States Navy for two years. He coached and sponsored Manchaca baseball and softball. James was a member of Manchaca United Methodist Church, a member and distinguished president of the Manchaca Optimist Club, a member of the Ben Hur Shrine Temple, an associate member of the Sheriff ’s Associa-
tion, and a board member and commissioner in Travis County Emergency Services District 5 for over 12 years. After graduating from the Austin Police Department Citizen’s Police Academy in 2001, he worked as a volunteer and then a part-time employee at the Austin Police Department’s property control office for five years, issuing equipment to police officers and maintaining equipment. He was a member of the Manchaca Volunteer Fire Department, holding the rank of captain, and served as department treasurer. He received Officer of the Year in 2005 and was named Firefighter of the Year from VFW Post 3377 in 2003. Jim was instrumental in combining Fire and EMS and in March he received a proclamation from Emergency Services District 5, recognizing his commitment and dedication to the safety of the community of Manchaca. Katherine Ramsey ex, April 2, in Temple. She was a member of First Christian Church of Bartlett. J.B. Rodgers ex, February 11, in Fort Worth. He was in the Air Force for four years and worked for the Texas Air National Guard at Hensley Field in Dallas. He was the husband of Wanda Craven Rodgers ex ’52. Thomas D. Sisco, March 24, in Temple. He was the husband of Ruby Sisco ex. Theiss L. Jones, February 25, in Temple. He was inducted into the UMHB Walter Gilewicz Hall of Fame, receiving the highest distinguished musicians award in 2002. Naomi Bowen, former employee, March 14, in Temple. George W. Tyner, former employee, March 1, in Lampasas.
MEMORIALS Cara Lois Allison Tommy and Margie Bennett Janie Tate Wheeler Carol Treible Craig Arnold Amy M. Bawcom Dr. Mary Last
The Martha Smirl Cooper Endowed Scholarship was dedicated during a trustee luncheon on May 8. The scholarship was established by Martha’s late husband, Carroll Cooper, because of his wife’s deep love for the university. A member of the Class of 1951, Martha has served as a university trustee since 1994 and was chair of the board in 2004. 24 | UMHB LIFE
Virginia Parham Blackwell Celinda Hallbauer Doodle Townsend Bridges Audrey Cockrell Janie Tate Wheeler John Birkner Nan Webb Pryor
Janice Caldwell Jerry Caldwell Michael A. Cook Bill and Mary Engvall Scott and LuAnne Gantt Dr. and Mrs. David Havemann Steve and Karen Howard Lucille Labay Mr. and Mrs. Rueben Marek Elenora Muehlstein Northwest Animal Hospital Ed, Mildred, and Daniel Powell Rita and Erwin Pustejovsky Mr. and Mrs. Fred Westbrook
alumni profile
Class of 1948 Faye Lankford Bergquist Jamie Clements Marietta Parker Nan Webb Pryor Otis Collier Patricia Lockridge Shannon Theresa Woodward Cross Diana and Mike Pintar Beverly Brown Deines Janie Tate Wheeler Rev. Gordon Edwards Erin Elizabeth Edwards Brianna Beth Edwards Velma B. Ellis Rosalina Delmas Hancock Roy Finney Julie Birkner Betty Bass Hiles Dorothy, Esther, and Janie Minten Sarah Sims Furey Lou Provence Laine Margaret Gafford Amy M. Bawcom Rev. Elmer Glazener MaryAnn Lyons Griffin Lou Provence Laine Florence Simons Sarah Herndon Thompson Mary H. Winn John B. Godwin Marty Havens Godwin Gloria Jean Gorham Kay Anderson Angeline Hobbs Mark and Betty O’Hair Anderson
Mary Hardin-Baylor was the perfect place for Julie Cobb Solomon ’78. Though far from home, the Canadian-born tennis player thrived in the family atmosphere, where she could focus on her studies and tennis. “I got the opportunity to do the things I loved at MHB — without the distractions of a bigger school.” Today an accomplished pianist with two recorded CDs, Julie remembers her teachers and her “practice room.” “Piano and tennis were my life. Even when we got back from a tournament at 8:00 at night, I’d go to my practice room and practice.” The principles Julie embraced at UMHB continued to guide her life as a stay-at-home mom with four children. Today, Julie and her oldest daughter, Melissa, play in the National Tennis Mother-Daughter Doubles tournaments. “We started playing doubles when Melissa was just nine years old,” Julie said.
Now after nearly 10 years, Julie and Melissa, a student at Colorado State University on a tennis scholarship, have won five trophies — three silver and two bronze. The most recent trophy was the bronze ball which they won in the indoor doubles in Portland in June. According to both, the experience of being a mother-daughter team has been tremendous. “Melissa has heart and determination — she is a workhorse, she never gives up,” Julie says with maternal pride. Melissa says she enjoys learning from her mother. “During every tournament we get closer and closer because I learn more about her,” said Melissa. “She hits the ball so clean and deep — I know just from the sound of the ball where it is going.” Now with their success, Melissa says they are hungry for more wins. “We’re going to keep playing until we get the gold!” she said with a smile. —Carol Woodward
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ALUMNI L I F E Harriet Elstow Moody Mary Jo Smith Edwards Caleb Morgan Stephen Bradley John Robert (Red) Murff Greg and Patty Harper John and Theresa Nettuno Ruth Shaeffer Muzzy Dorothy Minten Esther Minten Janie Minten Florence Simons Dot Isbell Nations Durelle Tripp Townley
A luncheon was held on April 15 to celebrate the creation of the Minnie Mae and Jack Whyburn Endowed Scholarship. Minnie Mae Sharp Whyburn is a 1950 graduate and has served as a member of the Alumni Board. Her husband, Jack, is a pastor and served as the administrator of Buckner Baptist Boys Ranch for 27 years. The Whyburns said they decided to endow a scholarship because of their love for God, for the university and for Christian education.
Earon A. Hood Beverly Norwine Adams Alice Bell Mr. and Mrs. Delbert Bryan Glenda Barton Bush Dr. LaVerne Gallman Billy P. Hall Dr. and Mrs. Bill Harding Allene Cook Hardt Denise Karimkhani Drs. Leroy and Jean Wyatt Kemp Dr. Grace Labaj Jessie C. Lowery Max and Mary Lou Marks Dr. Wayne Matthews and Dr. Sandra Oliver Sue Mayborn Brenda Goates McGuire Mr. and Mrs. Bart Meharg Marietta Parker Jack and Shirley Heff ner Sykes Meg Tormey Drs. Bob and Grace Richardson Whitis Theiss L. Jones Marietta Parker Doris Cluck Knappenberger Betty Bass Hiles 26 | UMHB LIFE
Monchi Limon Tia Chelo Limon Randy, Claudia, and Sarah Nunez Eloise Lindsey Susan Akers Bills Marietta Parker Laura Stringer McLallen Kay Anderson Dr. Roger M. Ballard Reed and Laura Harris Lucy Lin Hom Lou Provence Laine Jeanette Kelley Mitchell Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens Marietta Parker Nelda East Sanders Patricia Lockridge Shannon Shirley Thedford Julia Amason Walker
Daisy Goodwin Neal Mr. and Mrs. Jerry G. Bawcom Ed and Kay Goldsmith Ken and Melva Garner Hobbs Judith Scates Hyer Steve and Pam Rhodes Inez Finney Owen Lee and Judy Finney Norton Cole Wilson Pemberton Dr. and Mrs. Jerry G. Bawcom Maude Carter Perdue Lilah Perdue Smedley Clark Potter Mr. and Mrs. Bob Burleson, Jr. Katherine Price Wanda Vanderbilt Arnold Roen Ken and Melva Garner Hobbs Marietta Parker Drs. Bob and Grace Richardson Whitis Johnny Rohlack Georgia Allison Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens John Shannon, Sr. Shirley Brown Cockerham Pat Lockridge Shannon M. T. Shepperd Marietta Parker
Bo McQueen Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Bridges
Bobby Lewis Slack Marty Havens Godwin Janie Tate Wheeler
John and Alice Minten Dorothy Minten Esther Minten Janie Minten
Alice Bagby Smith Dr. and Mrs. Jimmye S. Hillman
Claydene Steakley Brockway, Gersbach, Franklin & Niemeier, P.C. Patricia N. Burkett Judith Scates Hyer Shana Jackson Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy L. McClaren Kymberlie and Kyle McKarra Mike and Ilene Miller Naman, Howell, Smith & Lee, L.L.P. Tim and Leslie Norton Marietta Parker Perry Office Plus Cindy and Ralph Romaguera Bob Lee Stoddard Albuquerque Evening High School Barbara Baker Peggy Craik Patricia Forshaw Four Suns Builders, Inc. Marvin Ginn Jan Hayes Rose Minton Kenneth and Melba Sue Peters Debbie Reynolds Jean H. Richey Sherri Steenson James and Cindy Trentham Georgia Mae Little Talley Marietta Parker Leola Vinson Traver Dr. Lu Ouida Vinson Phillips Larry Turnbo Nancy Huey Kimbro Dr. Arthur K. Tyson Barbara Robertson Knowles Olie Weathers Elizabeth Timmons Glazener Pat Lockridge Shannon Walt Westbrook MaryAnn Lyons Griffin Ken and Betty Payne Huber Mary H. Winn “Smitty” Wilson, RN Dr. R. Wayne Matthews Dr. Sandra Kay Oliver Wesley Thomas Wooten Dr. Chris Ballard
HONORARIA Patsy Hendrix Ashby Mark and Betty O’Hair Anderson
Full Circle (continued from page 17)
“Fundraising will always be a great challenge. We will continue to need to expand the campus with new facilities and renovations of our current facilities, to keep our classrooms and residence halls up-to-date and of the high quality our faculty and students need and deserve. I need to be a great fundraiser, and I need to be a good shepherd of the resources we have, to use them wisely to accomplish our mission.” “Our greatest challenge as we look to the future is maintaining affordability. It costs more to run the university every year. We have close to 370 full-time employees. Health care costs and utility costs go up every year, even when we don’t expand our programs. We know that, when you look at the cost of a college education across our country, Mary Hardin-Baylor is a tremendous bargain; but it is our responsibility to provide the financial assistance our students need to be able to attend. “We are a very strong academic institution, and we continue to seek higher and higher levels of excellence in all that we do. But I want to make sure that as many students who desire to do so have a chance to experience a Mary HardinBaylor education without incurring a lifetime of debt to go with it.” ‘A great privilege’ O’Rear takes these challenges seriSylvera Cole Barton Sue Barton Lykes Dr. and Mrs. Jerry G. Bawcom Beverly Norwine Adams Barbara Conder Agee Mark and Betty O’Hair Anderson Armenta Redus Armstrong Leila Routh Arnett
ously, but he also makes it clear that they don’t dim his enthusiasm for the tasks ahead. “When you look at private, Christian universities of a similar size across our country, you recognize that we have something special here,” O’Rear says. “The quality of life in Belton is hard to beat. We’re sitting here on Interstate 35 in Central Texas; in many respects, we’re blessed not to have some of the significant challenges other institutions face due to their locations, and it’s easy to drive or catch a plane to anywhere you want to go. We have great faculty, great staff, great leaders in place across this campus. And thanks to the leadership of Jerry Bawcom, UMHB is healthy and financially stable, with a good, strong enrollment.” “I feel incredibly blessed for the opportunity, and I count it a great privilege, to serve as president of the university where I went to school and which I love so deeply. I wake up every day feeling like the luckiest guy in the world,” O’Rear says. “I know that the challenges we face are significant, but I also know God has His hand on Mary Hardin-Baylor. I’m excited to work with the other leaders on this campus as we seek His continued will and plans for the university. I know that God has great things in store for Mary Hardin-Baylor, and it’s exciting to know we are going to be a part of them.” Krista McNary Baty Nancy Gorham Boulmay Mr. and Mrs. Walter Caughron Martha Smirl Cooper Cathy Burkett Cornelio Peggy Craik Louise Duke Cross Isabelle Pettigrew Drach Evelyn Bunton Faubion UMHB LIFE | 27
ALUMNI L I F E Dr. LaVerne Gallman Dr. and Mrs. Roberto Garcia Elizabeth Timmons Glazener Eithel Johnson Hibbs Betty Bass Hiles Betsy Hilliard DJ Reinhard Hogwood Lucy Lin Hom Michelle Pruett Johnson Mildred Garbern Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Josh Johnston Kathryn Thompson Knotts Lou Provence Laine William and Virginia Gregg Leak Mary Alice Cowley Marshall Jean Carolyn Lewis Mayer Grace Dannelley McDonald Dorothy, Esther, and Janie Minten Natha McMinn Mitchell Betty McGehee Moore Anita Lucero Morales Meredith Morgan Kimberly Werner Mouse Dorothy Lane Niesen Mr. and Mrs. Jeff rey Olchesky Dr. and Mrs. Randy O’Rear Doris Goldston Parker Marilyn Gore Phillips Francis Twitty Pittman Susan Polach Marty Whitfield Portmann Carry LaRue Potts Andrew Rey Nadyne Owen Roberts Cindy Breaux Roberts Susan Holland Schaub Helen M. Y. Shao Dr. and Mrs. Tommy Shelton Cheryl Pullin Simcik
Shirley Cowan Sommer Virginia Trott Starling Nicole LeCompte Staton Nancy Salisbury Sullivan Betty Franklin Taylor Durelle Tripp Townley Arla Ray Tyson Morris Tyson Katy Wheat Ward Margie Williamson Sunny Wilson Randy and Kim Kittredge Yandell Betty Sue Craven Beebe Amy M. Bawcom Betty Bass Hiles Janie Tate Wheeler
Sharon Ganslen Amy M. Bawcom Elizabeth Timmons Glazener Sarah Herndon Thompson Diane Gryseels Amy M. Bawcom Kathy Haines Amy M. Bawcom DJ Reinhard Hogwood Pam Hogwood Wilson Dr. Robert Holland Amy M. Bawcom
Dr. Edna Penny Bridges City Federation Housekeepers Club
Mary Alice Marshall Betty Bass Hiles
Russell Bridges Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Bridges
Janie Minten Betty Sue Craven Beebe
Linda Bridges Sandefur Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Bridges
Joan Marlowe Myrah Shirley Brown Cockerham
Gary Brinegar Amy M. Bawcom
Dr. Randy O’Rear Eithel Johnson Hibbs
Class of 1938 Genevieve McCaleb Trees
Carolyn Allison Owens Janie Tate Wheeler
Gayla Vardeman Corley Janie Tate Wheeler
Ann Elizabeth Paredes Mary San Miguel Collier
Mike Frazier Pat Lockridge Shannon
Nelda Cook Perry Janie Tate Wheeler Cindy Breaux Roberts Betty O’Hair Anderson Roy Sikes Amy M. Bawcom
Follow Dr. Randy O’Rear this fall, as he begins his journey as our university president. Visit the Alumni Association website (alumni. umhb.edu) and check out his personal blog (online journal), which will be updated weekly. Post your comments and become part of a unique opportunity to get to know Dr. O’Rear.
Doris Jean Campbell Turnbo Nancy Huey Kimbro UMHB Education Department Tina Tillert Conway UMHB Library Staff Dr. Mary Last Dr. Sandra Wanner Amy M. Bawcom Chris Weathers Westbrook Lynelle Sweat Mason Carol Ann Williams Marion Walker Barren Doris Watters Wood Jane Wood
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Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Waco, TX Permit No. 1519
900 College Street • Belton, Texas 76513
Electronic Service Requested
The Board of Trustees of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor cordially invites all alumni and friends of the university to the inauguration of
Dr. Randy O’Rear as the twenty-second president of the university Friday, September 18, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. Frank and Sue Mayborn Campus Center 923 University Drive Belton, Texas For additional information, see the website at www.umhb.edu/inauguration 30 | UMHB LIFE