Rams Hit Gridiron for First Time in 70 Years: 11
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a magazine for alumni & friends
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ALSO INSIDE: Alumnus Frank Short Lives His Passion for Charity: 8 • Make Your Plans to Attend Homecoming 2011: 20
FALL 2011
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A Word from the President.......................... 1
Vision | Mission............................................. 2
Our Vision Bluefield College will be a nationally recognized Christ-centered liberal arts college, preparing innovative learners and transformational leaders to impact the world. Bluefield Magazine is the official magazine for alumni and friends of Bluefield College, 3000 College Drive, Bluefield, Virginia 24605. The magazine is published three times a year in the fall, winter and spring seasons by the Office of Marketing and Public Relations. Available online at bluefield.edu/publications.
Education Program Produces Teachers of the Year Students Exposed to Innovative Global Education with China Exchange BC Partners with Mahidol University in Study Exchange
Students benefit from China exchange.
Students Serve on Mission in Italy BC and Virginia Baptist Teens Impact Southwest Virginia
Bluefield College
BC students study Chinese culture, history and art (pictured) as part of a summer global education trip: p. 4
Phone: 276.326.3682 www.bluefield.edu
Features....................................................................................................................8
Editors
Alumnus Frank Short Lives His Passion for Charity
Betty Carroll, Vanessa Scruggs, and Chris Shoemaker
Submissions / Feedback
News.......................................................................................................................10
by mail: Office of Marketing and Public Relations, 3000 College Drive, Bluefield, Virginia 24605 by email:
[email protected] by phone: 276.326.4212 or 800.872.0175 (4212)
College Celebrates Dining Hall Renovations
Board of Trustees
Former NFL Players Join BC Coaching Staff
Dr. David L. Bailey, Jr. (’60) - vice chair Mrs. Rebecca Easley Beckett Dr. Thomas M. Brewster (’91) Dr. Jo Lynne DeMary Rev. David W. Dockery Dr. Janelle B. Duremdes Dr. Michael R. DuVal (’75) Mr. F. Tyler Easley (’42) - emeritus Dr. T. Keith Edwards - emeritus Mr. William D. Evans Rev. William M. Hartsfield Mr. Robert A. Houck (’67) Mr. J. Ronald Hypes (’82) Mrs. Estelle “Cookie” Johnson Mrs. Julie Hull Johnson (’88) - chair Mr. James Y. Justice Mr. J. Sidney Lanier, Jr. (’74) Mr. Steven G. Layfield Mrs. Margaret Newcomb Leonard (’55) Rev. Jack A. Marcom, Jr. (’62) - secretary Mr. Thomas E. “Tem” Marshall, IV (’68) Mr. Camden J. McLaughlin (’73) Dr. Assaad Mounzer Dr. Pearl N. Moyers-Dean Mr. Richard F. Norman (’78) Mrs. Sarah Jolly Reid (’68) Mr. Kenneth R. Russell, Jr. Dr. Alan D. Stanford Mr. Joseph K. Tatum (’71) Mrs. Susan McDougle Tussey (’64) Mr. William S. Winfrey, II
Rams Hit Gridiron for First Time in 70 Years
Former Professor Supports Rams Football College Adds Nursing to its Degree Completion Programs BC Cuts Tuition, Goes Online with Degree Completion Programs 122 Seniors Accept Diplomas
BC students share their faith during a Spring Break mission trip to Italy: p. 6
Faculty-Staff Update Who’s Making News: A News Photo Scrapbook Alumni.....................................................................................................................20 Homecoming 2011: Now and Then A Story of Grace and Reconciliation Class Notes
The Last Word............................ 25 Imagine a Campus and Community Wellness Center
inSPIRE adult degree completion graduates celebrate Commencement: p. 16
These, however, are just the tangible markers in life and do not address that which is of greater importance and value — transformed lives. Just as Paul exhorts in his letter to the Romans, we are to “be transformed by the renewing of our minds.” Each day that story continues to be written as countless lives are impacted by those who faithfully teach and serve at Bluefield College. I hope you find joy and inspiration as you read the stories that follow about global education, missions abroad, dining hall renovations, a new nursing program, and the return of football. Given all that is taking place at the College, I give thanks to God for this opportunity to be a part, along with many others, of this miraculous narrative. Come join us on the journey and be a part of the story!
Partnering with you in faithful service,
1 David W. Olive President
President David Olive welcomes BC students to a new academic year during the traditional President’s Convocation, August 31.
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As I see the 220 new traditional students walking throughout campus this fall, I am reminded that this arguably is the largest incoming class since the College began offering bachelor’s degrees in the 1970s. Realizing our new residence hall, East River Hall, is at capacity and more than 320 students now live on campus, I am mindful of such a blessing. Knowing the tremendous amount of planning, securing of resources, and prayer, I recognize the successful launch of our new nursing and football programs go beyond our mere mortal efforts.
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As I reflect on where we as a campus community are beginning this new academic year — our 90th — I see the miraculous work of God in our midst and throughout our labors as we purposefully seek to transform the hearts and minds of our students. Knowing the challenging economic environment in which we find ourselves as a nation and global community, I give thanks to God for helping us steward our resources — the tuition resources given by families and the gift resources shared by donors — and enabling the College to finish the 2010-‘11 year with the strongest financial position in a decade. Mentioning our committed donors, the College reached a significant milestone in giving this past year, more than $2 million.
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I vividly remember watching Team USA defeat the USSR to win the gold medal in the 1980 Olympics. A movie was later made of this stunning and almost unbelievable story of perseverance and victory in “Miracle on Ice.” While this event made many refer to this as a miracle, oftentimes our concept of miracles can be exclusively linked to those found in the Biblical narrative, but I, for one, do believe in the miraculous activity of God at work in and through our lives that has profound impact on this world and bringing about God’s kingdom here on earth.
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Do you believe in miracles?
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Dear Bluefield Alumni and Friends:
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There is no better indication of the quality of an academic program or institution than the success of its graduates.
Tiffany Carter, Beth Ann McMillion Craig, April Reed Halsey, and Leslie Bratton Lambert, all graduates of BC’s Teacher Education Program, were all honored in 2010-2011 as Teacher of the Year for their respective schools or districts.
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Carter, a 2001 BC graduate from Bastian, Virginia, won the 2011 Teacher of the Year award at Bland Elementary School in Bland, Virginia, and the 2011 Teacher of the Year award for Bland County. A fifth grade teacher at Bland Elementary, Carter was nominated and selected for the school award by her colleagues. After winning at that level, she became eligible for the countywide honor, and through an interview selection process she outshined four other Bland County teachers to earn Bland County Teacher of the Year. “Teaching should be less about instruction and more about changing lives,” said Carter about her approach to her profession. “When you work to change lives, then learning just follows. My goal as a teacher is to change the lives of my students, and that I do.”
State Teacher of the Year. She just completed her ninth year teaching at Bland Elementary, where she teaches math, science, and U.S. history. She gave special thanks to her grade level teaching partner, Sherry Rhodes Havens, also a BC grad (’98), but above all she said the awards are all about her students.
with a loving and supportive approach make her a master teacher.” A first grade teacher at Ecoff, Craig is also a recent recipient of an REB Grant for Teacher Excellence. The award, presented to just seven teachers out of more than 300 from Chesterfield, Hanover, Henrico and Richmond public schools, allows grant recipients to travel and participate in learning opportunities and experiences that they can bring back to students in the classroom.
“I love my kids,” said Carter. “I try to be a real person to them. So often teachers seem to be removed from their students, never truly engaging in their lives. Beth Ann McMillion Craig “Beth gets so excited about student They engage in their schoolwork, learning,” said a second colleague. “Her kids but not their lives. I let my kids see that I have adore her, and everyone who has taught with the same hurts, struggles, laughs, dreams, her gets how special she is. Her passion for and disappointments as they do. If they can teaching is seen everyday, and I am thankful to be very comfortable with me, then they will work with her.” receive from me, whether instruction, advice, or whatever they need at the time.” A Bluefield, Virginia, native and Graham (VA) High School graduate, Craig began her Craig, a 1992 BC graduate from teaching career at Dudley Elementary School Chester, Virginia, won the 2011 in Bluefield. She was recognized by the state Teacher of the Year award at during a banquet in October, where she also Ecoff Elementary School was a candidate for the Virginia Teacher of the in Chesterfield County. Year honor. Selected by her peers for the award, Craig was Halsey, a 2004 BC graduate from Princeton, acknowledged for her West Virginia, won this year’s Teacher of the “attention to detail” and Year honor at Rocky Gap Elementary School in “patience with children.” Rocky Gap, Virginia.
“Beth is one of the most naturally gifted teachers I have ever worked with,” said one Tiffany Carter co-worker. “Students in her classroom believe they can achieve anything, because their teacher believes this. Beth makes learning As County Teacher of the Year, Carter was eligible for Regional Teacher of the Year and fun. Structure and excellent teaching combined
“Mrs. Halsey works tirelessly as a kindergarten teacher,” said Dr. Gary Williams, principal at Rocky Gap Elementary. “She is adept at working with students of varying abilities and constantly strives to help each student reach their highest level of performance. She has a special ability to motivate students to work to their potential.
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Teacher Education Program Produces
With that said, there is no question of the quality of the Teacher Education Program at Bluefield College, which last year alone celebrated four Teacher of the Year honors with its graduates.
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Other successful products of the Teacher Education Program.
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“April demonstrates the highest standards of teaching with her professionalism and passion for teaching,” said second grade Rocky Gap Elementary teacher Karen McCardle. Founded in 1977 by Dr. Gerald Clay, who “Her students are directed the program until his retirement in certainly fortunate 2006, the Bluefield College Teacher Education to be in her classroom, “It is an honor to be recognized Program strives to “prepare students as as she has touched every as Liberty High School Teacher of April Reed Halsey outstanding teachers through content child she has ever taught with the Year,” Lambert said. “The training and knowledge, pedagogical knowledge, and her warmth, kindness, and understanding. April personal attention I received at Bluefield caring teaching skills.” Nationally accredited by has an amazing gift and it comes naturally. Her College is what prepared me for a career the Teacher Education Accreditation love for teaching is evident every time you walk in education. My success in the Council (TEAC) and endorsed into her classroom and see the smiles on her classroom can be attributed to by the Virginia Department students’ faces.” instructors like Dr. Donna of Education, the program Watson and Mrs. Phyllis In addition to her teacher licensure from BC, offers teacher licensure Owens, who took the time Halsey holds a master’s degree in special in elementary and to take a personal interest education from West Virginia University. secondary education, in my success.” “I am honored to be selected as Teacher of art, health and the Year,” she said. “Rocky Gap Elementary physical education, In addition to BC’s four School is a wonderful place to teach. My fellow music, biology, Teachers of the Year, teachers are amazing, and the students and business, chemistry, two additional Teacher parents are the best.” English, history, Education graduates earned information technology, professional distinctions Lambert, a 2002 BC graduate from Mount mathematics, and social this year. Sandra Bowling, a Hope, West Virginia, won the 2011 Teacher of Leslie Bratton Lambert sciences. 1989 BC graduate from Wytheville, the Year award at Liberty High School in Glen Virginia, won WVVA-TV’s Teacher of the Month Daniel, West Virginia.
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“I’m so proud of all the accomplishments of our graduates who impact schools and communities all around the state of Virginia and beyond,” said Dr. Donna Watson, chair of BC’s Division of Education. “Their positive influence and service to their profession is far reaching and inspiring. One of the joys in working with student teachers is to see them blossom into highly qualified professionals. Every year, Phyllis Owens and I work with students whose talents and gifts are extraordinary, and we can see that they will have an outstanding career in teaching.”
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After earning her bachelor’s degree in English from Bluefield College in 2002 and a master’s degree in English from Radford (VA) University in 2005, Lambert returned to BC for teacher licensure in 2008. Earning the Teacher of the Year award, she said, is a result of the preparation she received at Bluefield and the ways in which she has been able to apply the knowledge and skills she gained as a student in the BC Teacher Education Program.
award in February 2011. And, Dr. Rebecca Stevenson Lowry was named superintendent of Westmoreland (VA) County Schools in January 2011, the highest education administration position for a public school system.
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Halsey teaches kindergarten at Rocky Gap Elementary, where she has worked since graduating from BC seven years ago. She was nominated and selected for the Teacher of the Year award by her colleagues.
Nominated and selected by her co-workers, she has been teaching English at Liberty High School since 2008. She also teaches college level English at Glenville (WV) State College and has taught English at Bluefield (WV) State College. Her Liberty Teacher of the Year award made her eligible for Raleigh County Teacher of the Year and West Virginia Teacher of the Year.
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Rocky Gap Elementary School, Bland County Public Schools, and the Rocky Gap community are blessed to have such an upstanding individual providing guidance and opportunity to the children attending this school.”
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Students Exposed to Innovative Global Education with China Exchange
As part of its mission to prepare globally-minded students who impact the world, Bluefield College sent two of its students and a professor to China this summer for an academic and cultural exchange with the Jiangsu Institute of Education. The summer 2011 trip to China marked the fourth semester in a row the two schools have participated in the international exchange of ideas, discussion, fellowship and study, which began in the fall of 2009 when four Jiangsu students and a professor visited the BC campus. Designed to “promote educational cooperation,” “friendly ties,” and “mutual benefits,” the study exchange is a “once in a lifetime opportunity.” “It’s a great way to experience the Chinese culture, history and language,” said Dr. Gerardo Cummings, director of BC’s Global Education Program, “and a great way to understand one another and to share experiences of what life is like in our countries. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity for our students.” The BC students — Lydia Freeman, a senior communications major from Bristol, Virginia, and Amber MacDonald, a senior education major from Beckley, West Virginia — joined Professor Walter Shroyer — an art teacher with more than 20 years of experience at Bluefield — on the summer 2011 trip to Nanjing and Beijing. The BC visitors toured a variety of historic sites in Beijing, including the Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, the Ming tombs, and the Great Wall of China. They also experienced authentic Chinese food and hospitality and learned much about the humility and kindness of the Chinese people. “Our tour guide, Wang, was wonderful to us,” said Shroyer. “The first moment we met him he said, ‘I am more than your guide. I will be your friend. I will take care of you, and I will protect you. I want to build trust with you.’ That he did.”
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BC Partners with Mahidol University in Study Exchange
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Shroyer taught students at Jiangsu about American culture, history, geography, and art. He also lectured on art education and art history in America.
The Mahidol partnership is the second international exchange agreement crafted by the college in the past two years. BC began a similar academic exchange with the Jiangsu Institute of Education in Nanjing, China in 2009. “Bluefield college is committed to a program of global education,” said Dr. Shippey, “and this agreement formalized between the college and Mahidol University will greatly expand our ability to allow students to study abroad.”
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President David Olive (left) signs an agreement that will allow BC students to study each year at Mahidol University in Bangkok, Thailand.
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Lydia Freeman (far left), Walter Shroyer (second from left) and Amber MacDonald (third from left) experience global education in Nanjing and Beijing.
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The BC students studied Chinese history and culture at Jiangsu. They attended a Chinese painting class, participated in question-and-answer sessions, and “had incredibly stimulating conversations with the Chinese college students.” “I love China,” said Freeman. “I love the people in China and the places in China. I love the food, the culture, the lifestyle. I am so glad I went.”
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“It was a wonderful experience,” he said, “and the people in China were very kind to me. I will never forget their kindness. The food was delicious, although at times a little strange, but I just went with the idea of ‘just try.’”
Students participating in the global education effort will tour historical cities and sites inside the host country, including museums and exhibits. They will attend conferences, conduct research, and engage in service-learning projects in the local communities. In addition, they will experience native food and fellowship. Most importantly, they will study and learn alongside students from a different culture.
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“I learned a great deal about the history of China,” said Freeman. “I read about the massacre, studied generals and revolutionaries. I wish I had known more before I went. I read stories about missionaries who went to China my whole life, but it is like looking at a painting and understanding what you are seeing, but not truly understanding why the entire background exists.”
Designed to encourage closer ties between the two countries and its peoples and to establish programs of exchange and collaboration between the two schools, the BC-Mahidol agreement calls for cooperation in the fields of education, teaching, research, and student and staff study exchange.
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In addition, the BC group toured museums and exhibits on Chinese history and culture. They visited the Nanjing Art Institute, Purple Mountain, and the Eighth Wonder of the World in the Terra Cotta Warriors. Most importantly, they studied and lectured alongside Chinese students at the Jiangsu Institute of Education.
“We are thrilled to have this agreement with one of the leading institutions of higher learning in Thailand,” said Dr. Robert Shippey, vice president for academic affairs. “We look forward to the opportunity for our students to engage in learning and understanding, not only at Mahidol, but throughout southeast Asia, including Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Myanmar.”
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“The service was very similar to the one I go to in Bluefield — songs, scripture reading, sermon, the Lord’s Prayer, The Apostle’s Creed, Gloria Patri, doxology, and communion,” said Shroyer. “One of the things I enjoyed most about the service was that the communion was given in Chinese. Now that was special.”
As part of the school’s mission to prepare innovative learners and transformational leaders, who are compassionate, globally-minded citizens, Bluefield College leaders traveled to Bangkok, Thailand in May to sign the exchange agreement with Mahidol. Under the new partnership, BC will send students to Thailand each spring and Mahidol will send students to Bluefield each fall for academic and cultural exchange.
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The BC delegation also worked with special needs adults, taught English as a second language, and attended one of the various church services offered on Sundays, some in English and others in Chinese.
Bluefield College students will soon be gaining a greater understanding of the culture, history, language and customs of the country of Thailand, thanks to the development of a new international exchange program between BC and Mahidol University.
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BC students with new friends from the Jiangsu Institute of Education in China.
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While most college students used their Spring Break in March to relax, get away or bask in the sun, Bluefield College students used theirs to serve, work and fulfill a call on mission in Italy. As part of the school’s efforts to support the ministry of Virginia Baptists and the International Mission Board, 10 BC students participated in the spring mission, designed to give them an opportunity to experience a different culture, while fulfilling the Great Commission. “We wanted this to be an opportunity for our students to step out of their comfort zones,” said Kelly Somers, director of residence life. “They did, and they really grew in confidence and in their ability to share the Gospel, even with those who didn’t even speak the same language.” The students spent nearly a week in Italy, primarily in Naples, leading street ministry projects, completing prayer walks, and conducting street evangelism. “Italy was an incredible experience in every aspect,” said senior Emily Wingfield from Gloucester, Virginia. “The culture is rich, and the people are beautiful. It warmed my heart to be able to worship alongside fellow believers from different languages and cultures. It’s a glimpse of what Heaven will be like.” Working with missionaries and journeymen who are employed with the International Mission Board, the BC students also led a praise and worship service in the city square and attended a Gospel concert and evening church service. In fact, during the praise in the piazza, five locals made professions of faith.
“There were so many memorable experiences,” said Somers. “The most moving was watching the Italian believers lead a new brother in Christ in the salvation prayer. The man played the accordion BC students join Virginia Baptists on mission in Italy. on the streets. He heard our singing, and it got his “It was neat to see how our students wanted to attention, and the Italians were able to witness to him and lead him to Christ.” bring back what they learned in Italy, back to the states, back to Bluefield,” said Somers. “They The BC students not only shared the Gospel, but came home with a desire to be as bold in their also experienced the history and culture of Italy faith in America as they were in Italy.” with a trip to the Spine of Naples, the second oldest Baptistery; the Church of the Dead; the Joining Wingfield and Somers on the mission Pozzuoli shore where the Apostle Paul landed on to Italy were BC Campus Minister David Taylor his journey to Rome; Christmas Avenue, the site of and students Julia Austin of Rockville, Virginia; the first Nativity scene; and Sorbillo’s, a 200-yearShannon Denton of Tazewell, Virginia; Dawnn old pizzeria. Fletcher of Locust Grove, Virginia; Rae Linkous of North Tazewell, Virginia; Cortney Pattison of “It was amazing to see and be in such Biblically Radford, Virginia; Kristen Slade of North Tazewell, historical cities,” said Somers, “knowing you were Virginia; J.D. Taylor of Bluefield, Virginia; Katie walking in the same footprints as Paul and Peter.” Warren of Princeton, West Virginia; and Summer As part of the cultural experience, the students Wilding of Sandusky, Ohio. also visited Rome, where they toured the Colosseum, ancient ruins, the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Vatican City, St. Peters Square, and St. Peters Basilica.
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Bluefield College and Virginia Baptist Teens Impact Southwest Virginia
Sponsored by the Virginia Baptist Mission Board, Impact Virginia is a one-week mission opportunity for youth in grades 7-12 that focuses on home repair for low-income families and spiritual growth for teens and the people they serve. While the youth participating in southwest Virginia spent the early mornings and evenings each day in devotion and worship at Bluefield College, they spent the bulk of their daily time in the community, renovating 15 homes in Tazewell County.
The Impact teams built entrance ramps, roofs and steps, and rebuilt floors porches and foundations to improve homes of those in need. They replaced doors, painted various structures, and repaired steps, handrails and ceilings.
“It is remarkable to think about the impact we’ve been able to have in this community over the past three years,” said BC’s David Taylor, campus minister
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“It’s a great way to help people, and it’s something you can do in an area near us, instead of halfway across the world,” said Justine Purdy, a teen from
“At Bluefield, we believe passionately in service above self and strive hard to prepare compassionate students to impact their world,” said Taylor. “Impact Virginia is an opportunity to not only serve others, but also to grow in Christian faith.”
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The youth met and helped low-income families from 15 different homes in Tazewell, Falls Mills, Cedar Bluff, Pounding Mill, Pocahontas, and Boissevain. They worked from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, Monday through Friday, stopping only for lunch, provided by local churches who joined the cause.
The youth also constructed retaining walls and installed pipes, insulation, drywall, shingles, windows, vinyl siding, gutters and sinks. All in all, they invested an estimated $20,000 of labor into southwest Virginia, combined with more than $10,000 in materials provided to Bluefield College by local contractors, home improvement centers, and other donors.
Using Bluefield College as mission central, the Impact teams ate breakfast and dinner on campus and participated in daily devotions and worship prior to and at the end of each service day. Part of the Bluefield College mission is to be “in service to God and the community,” Taylor said. Collaborating with the Virginia Baptist Mission Board to bring Impact Virginia to Bluefield is just one way the school can fulfill that mission.
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“It’s hard work, but I enjoy it,” said Tyler Layburn, a teen volunteer from Ferry Farm Baptist Church in Stafford, Virginia. “I just like to help people. Making them happy makes me happy. It’s nice to be useful and to meet new people and to learn their stories.”
“I had looked all over for someone to do work for me, so I was relieved and thrilled to death when they (Bluefield College) picked me,” said homeowner Mildred Cornett of Falls Mills, Virginia. “These new steps will really help me. Now I can go out my front door. These kids have been so sweet. They sacrificed their time, and I don’t know many people that would do that, especially young people.”
and vice BC and Virginia Baptists invest president for more than $30,000 into home student services, repairs in Tazewell County, about the college’s Virginia. participation in Impact Virginia since 2009. “During this time, we have made more than 40 dwellings in southwest Virginia warmer, safer and dryer for needy homeowners. We couldn’t make this kind of difference in people’s lives without these youth and without the support of the Virginia Baptist Mission Board, our local churches and others who contributed to the cause.”
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Virginia Hills Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia. “Some people go overseas on mission, and that’s great, but people need help right in our own neighborhoods, too. It’s great to get to help people and to get to know them, too.”
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Two hundred thirty youth from 13 Baptist churches across Virginia converged on the campus of Bluefield College in July to make a difference in the lives of families in southwest Virginia through a faith-based community service project called Impact Virginia.
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Two hundred thirty Virginia Baptist youth help BC make a difference in the community.
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A Alumnus, teacher and coach Frank Short (right) with Quintin Staten, a high school student whom he took into his home to ensure he enjoyed success.
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Alumnus Frank Short Lives His Passion
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Photo courtesy of Richmond Times-Dispatch.
Bluefield College holds dear the values of care, respect, support, encouragement, and service above self. The school also strives to instill in students a desire to reach their full potential. Alumnus Frank Short learned those values while a student at BC from 1975 to 1978. Now, he’s living them. Short, a history major at Bluefield College, now a teacher at Clover Hill High School in Midlothian, Virginia, went above and beyond his call of duty this past year to take in a student whose circumstances had left him living on the street. Now, that student, Quintin Staten, is living his own “Blind Side” movie, going from homeless to high school graduate, thanks to Short’s compassion and generosity. In foster care since early childhood, including 28 different group homes, Staten was a student Short befriended because of his dire home life. The support and care started with a meal during Thanksgiving and later a stay during the Christmas holiday. “Our relationship grew to be more than teacher/ student,” said Short, who taught Staten U.S. history and coached the young man in boys’ basketball. “We cared about each other and treated one another as family.” However, Staten later found himself in a different foster care home, the seventh locality in which he had lived in less than four years, and consequently a different school system. Frustrated with the people in charge of his care, he dropped out of high school and signed himself out of foster care in order to take matters into his own hands. “He ended up homeless and lived on the street for about a month or so,” said Short. “He lost about 40 pounds during this time and, frankly, didn’t look the same when I saw him again for the first time. He is very prideful and found it very hard to reach out to anyone. Honestly, he
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Frank Short (#53, ba ck row, third from lef men’s basketball pla t) during his ying days at Bluefi eld College, 1978.
. . k Frank Short (bac m fro nd co se w, ro left) with his BC brothers from a Sigma Phi Omeg . fraternity, 1978
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“My time at BC was wonderful,” said Short, who is in his 10th year as a teacher and coach. “The faculty and staff during my stay there were wonderful. Professor David Armbrister, Dr. Gerald Clay, and many others cared about their students. It did not go unnoticed. I loved my time there and will always be thankful for the relationships that got their start at Bluefield College.”
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“He never lost his determination,” said Short about Staten’s resolve. “Through all the uncertainty of life, he never considered giving up.” And no one at Clover Hill would let him, including Short, who said he learned many of the values he lives and teaches today at Bluefield College.
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“I know nothing else,” said Short Alumnus Frank Short, a model of care, respect, support, encouragement, and about his passion for care, respect, service above self. encouragement and service above self. “It doesn’t cost a thing to care about people. That is a fact that is sorely missed in today’s world. The people in my life, like those at Bluefield College, modeled these behaviors.”
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But, it wasn’t easy for Staten to finish his high school studies. Having missed his first semester classes, he had to take those courses online while also completing his second semester studies in the classroom. With support and encouragement from Short and others at Clover Hill, he did it. Staten earned his high school diploma in June. In fact, he’s attending a community college this fall with plans to transfer to Virginia State University next year.
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“I called my wife, Debbie, and she instantly agreed to stop being empty nesters,” said Short, who worked in the automotive paint industry for 23 years before becoming a teacher and coach. “I didn’t feel sorry for Quintin, but life wasn’t treating him right. I figured if we could get him past this point, he’d be okay. So, he moved in with us.”
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Desperate for a second chance, Staten walked 25 miles from Petersburg to Midlothian to his old high school, where he knew he would find friends. Dr. Debbie Marks, principle at Clover Hill, acted swiftly to get Staten re-enrolled. She could get him in school, but where would he live?
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had no reason to trust anyone to help, but he had reached a point where he had to.”
Outside of his studies, Short played men’s basketball at Bluefield College, where he led the Rams in scoring during his sophomore season and met his wife, Debbie Waid, a student and cheerleader at the school. In addition to his BC mentors, Short credited his family, particularly his parents, for instilling in him the values of determination and achieving your full potential. He acknowledged coaches, like Bill Pierce, who taught him selflessness, and Charles Phelps, who served as a second father to him and was responsible for his opportunity to play basketball at BC.
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College Celebrates Dining Hall Renovations
When students return for the fall 2011 semester, they just might not recognize the school’s dining hall, thanks to the completion of a quarter-million-dollar renovation project this summer. Not long after BC students left campus for summer break in May, the college began a massive restoration effort inside Shott Hall, which houses the school’s dining facilities. And, in August, just days before the students were set to return for the fall semester, the college celebrated the completion of those renovations, the most significant to the building since the early 1920s. “This is an exciting day for Bluefield College and an exciting day for our students as they begin to enjoy the amenities of this new dining hall,” President David Olive told faculty, staff, special guests and a handful of students on hand for the unveiling ceremony. “It’s truly a more modern, state-of-the-art, student-friendly facility.” With more than $250,000 in funding from Valley Services, the school’s food services provider, BC removed temporary walls separating the conference room and Student Activities Center from the dining hall and constructed
permanent, soundproof walls in their place. Workers also designed and constructed a new free-flowing serving area, along with open space for not only food, but also fellowship.
renovations also include new tile flooring and ceiling fans, a fresh new coat of paint for all the walls, and new tables, chairs and other furnishings all throughout the room.
“This is tremendous,” said Julie Johnson, chair of the Board of Trustees. “The dining hall was designed around the needs of the students and takes dining and fellowship into consideration. With this project completed, it puts us in a better position to serve the increased enrollment we’re experiencing as a result of our continued growth and the addition of our football program.”
“There’s a live cooking area here, a new tray line, and even a new system for returning your tray after you have finished,” said project manager Josh Cline. “There is a lot of sweat equity in this project. The staff and faculty pitched in to help with some of the painting and other things.”
The new dining hall features large open spaces where students can not only eat, but also relax or study. In fact, widescreen televisions and computer hookups are available in the room. “Everyone on staff in the dining hall is so excited for the students to come back and see all the new furnishings, serving line, how the walls have been opened, everything we have to offer,” said Jenny Phillips, BC’s food services manager. “We were limited in the past with the surroundings we had, but now it’s really going to be exciting for everyone to see.” The new free-flowing serving line features fry cook and grill items cooked on demand. The
Among the special guests on hand for the renovation celebration were Valley Executive Vice President George Ardelean and Valley District Manager Edmond LeDoux, who helped custom design the new dining hall to meet BC student needs. The dining room is just part of an overall renovation effort in Shott Hall that includes improvements to a conference room and the Student Activities Center. “This is just a part of what we’re doing to make the college a better place and to ultimately make our community a better community,” said Dr. Olive. “We invite alumni and friends to join us in future projects and in the life of the college.” Quarter-million-dollar renovations to BC’s dining hall are the latest enhancements on campus that are a part of the Living and Learning Improvement Initiative.
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“We started out very slow on offense,” the coach said, “and I was little disappointed early on, but deep down, it’s probably what we expected. We made some mistakes, but we did some good things. It’s just a matter of growing and learning.”
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The running game had nearly as many positive yardage plays as negative, but that can be expected with freshmen offensive linemen still learning and being moved around. The defense
“We have a lot to learn, but we’re progressing well,” said Coach Gravier. “The guys are still learning how to practice the way we want them to, but the light is starting to go for many of them. Overall, we’re very pleased.”
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Bluefield College formally announced the return of intercollegiate football in June of 2010 and shortly thereafter hired Coach Gravier to revive the program and to begin club play this fall and full intercollegiate action in the fall
In addition to the season opening intra-squad scrimmage, the 2011 exhibition season will include games away at Guilford College, West Virginia Tech, and Emory and Henry, as well as home bouts at Mitchell Stadium against the Greenville Titans, West Virginia Prep Academy, and the Virginia Sports Academy. The Rams will also play another intra-squad scrimmage during Homecoming, Saturday, October 15 at Mitchell Stadium.
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Coach Gravier said the playbook was limited the first time out with small packages and similar plays. The offense struggled to move the ball early, and the defense seemed to be further along in its development.
“It was pretty fun,” said quarterback Jake Jackson. “We still need to do more work, but it was fun playing football for the first time at Bluefield. We all need to come together. We need to improve. I think we’ll be better in the future.”
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“It’s been a long time coming,” said head coach Mike Gravier. “It was great to see the fans come out. Hopefully, they’ll stay. We’re going to get better, so hopefully the support continues to build.”
finished with several sacks and a couple of interceptions.
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“It’s just fun to finally get out there in a game situation,” the coach said. “It’s like doing a play. You rehearse, rehearse, rehearse, and then you finally have opening night. It’s an exciting time for us. I know the kids were jacked up and ready to play.”
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BC student-athletes returned to the gridiron for football competition, Saturday, August 20, 2011, for the first time since World War II ended the sport in 1941. Despite the fact that the inaugural season is an exhibition season and the season opener an intrasquad scrimmage, hundreds of fans, family, alumni and friends came out to see the new-look Rams.
of 2012. Even though the games and scores this fall aren’t going into the official record books, Coach Gravier said the players are still excited to be in action.
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It’s been 70 years – November 20, 1941 to August 20, 2011 – but the wait is over. Football is officially back at Bluefield College.
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. . . . n e.w s . Rams Hit Gridiron for First Time in 70 Years
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Former NFL Players Join BC Coaching Staff It’s not often you get 20 years of coaching experience, 15 years of training in the National Football League (NFL), two NFL Super Bowl rings, and an NFL Players Association leader in the hiring of assistant college football coaches. But, that’s exactly what Bluefield College got when it hired former NFL players and promising coaches Mike Compton and Stacey Hairston in May as assistant coaches for the new Rams football team. “I couldn’t ask for two better men to help me launch the new program at Bluefield,” said head coach Mike Gravier. “They are as excited as I am to build this program from the ground up, and they’re determined to do whatever it takes to help us be successful.” Compton, a Richlands, Virginia, native is serving as an offensive line coach. He played collegiate football at West Virginia University, where he was a three-year starter at center from 1990-1992, a two-time All-Big East Conference recipient in 1991 and 1992, and a consensus All-American in 1992. While in college, Compton also won the Red Brown Cup Award as WVU’s most outstanding athlete in 1992 and the Ideal Mountaineer Award in 1990 and 1992. “Coach Gravier has been charged with the task of starting a football program and bringing in the right people to get it going,” said Athletics
Director Pete Dryer. “He has brought in two individuals in Mike and Stacey that will assist in launching this program in the right direction.” After college, Compton took his talent to the NFL, where he played as an offensive lineman eight years for the Detroit Lions, three years for the New England Patriots, and one year with the Jacksonville Jaguars. During his time with the Patriots, Compton won two Super Bowl rings. “Throughout Mike’s experiences in college and in the NFL, he’s learned how to prepare himself to be successful,” said Coach Gravier. “Having the career he’s had doesn’t just happen. It takes hard work. I know that Mike will do a great job using his experiences to mold our players into successful young men.” Compton began his coaching career back home in Tazewell County as an assistant coach for football for two seasons at Tazewell High School. He left Tazewell in 2008 to become the head
coach for football at Patrick Henry High School in Glade Spring, Virginia. “Mike has built great relationships with the high school coaches in southwest Virginia that will pay dividends for us,” said Coach Gravier. “Stacey has been a college and professional coach for more than 12 years. He knows what it takes to bring in great student athletes. Both of these men will be huge assets on the recruiting trail. They bring instant credibility with them wherever they go.” Hairston, who joins the BC staff as defensive coordinator, played collegiate football at Ohio Northern University, before being signed in 1989 as a free agent in the NFL with the Dallas Cowboys. After a season with Dallas, Hairston spent the next two years, 1990-1992, in the Canadian Football League (CFL) as a defensive back and special teams player with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, before returning to the NFL to play defensive back and special teams for the Cleveland
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Coach Mike Compton shows off his Super Bowl ring.
Offensive line coach Mike Compton, a Tazewell native and NFL Super Bowl champion.
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During his tenure as a professor of business at BC from 2004 to 2008, Dr. Caudill served as chair of the organizational management and leadership portion of the adult degree completion program. He also served as faculty advisor for BC’s chapters of Sigma Beta Delta, Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE), and Phi Beta Lambda (PBL). Now a professor of marketing at Gardner Webb University’s Godbold School of Business in North Carolina, Dr. Caudill also established the Alfred and Shirley Wampler Caudill Scholarship Fund at Bluefield College in 2007 in memory of his father, in honor of his mother, and in an effort to support adult education at BC.
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“Don is a great example of service and mentorship,” said Ruth Blankenship, vice president for advancement. “He’s a strong Christian, a successful businessman, a man of character, and a role model for our student-athletes. He has a long history of supporting Bluefield College, and this is just his most recent interest and latest contribution to the school.”
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“We’re thrilled to have this level of experience on the Rams staff,” said Dryer. “Both Mike and Stacey have demonstrated the highest level of commitment in their profession. Not only are they interested in seeing great things happen on the field, but they also desire great things for student-athletes in the classroom and in life after college. This makes the experience of playing football at Bluefield College life-changing and very unique.”
“I think a football program can bring a lot of great things to a college,” Dr. Caudill said about his reasons for supporting the new sport. “It can bring things no other program can, and that’s why I wanted to be a part of it. I’m excited about the potential for football at Bluefield College, and I just wanted to be a part of something great.”
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A member of the Black Coaches and Administrators Association, the American Football Coaches Association and a former vice president of the NFL Players Association, Hairston became an assistant coach for the Edmonton Eskimos of the CFL in 2008, where he coached defensive backs until being called to Bluefield this spring.
A longtime supporter of Bluefield College, Dr. Caudill’s gifts to BC have supported scholarships, the adult degree completion program, communication students, and now football.
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Hairston began his coaching career as an assistant football coach at his alma mater, Ohio Northern University, where for seven seasons, 1996-2003, he coached defensive backs and special teams. In 2003, after a short stint as interim head coach, he was promoted to co-defensive coordinator and co-special teams coordinator, a position he held until 2008.
“We wouldn’t be able to start this program without gifts like this from Dr. Caudill,” said Coach Gravier. “People like him are helping us realize this dream.”
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“Stacey has worked hard for everything he has,” said Coach Gravier. “As an NCAA Division III athlete trying to make it at the professional level, he had to work hard and be determined. He approaches coaching the same way. He is determined to help our guys be successful, to help them reach their full potential.”
Since BC announced the return of intercollegiate football in June of 2010, nearly 100 donors, including Dr. Caudill, have stepped up with a gift of at least $5,000 to become a charter member of the Rams Football Booster Club and to help underwrite startup costs for the new sport.
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Browns, where he was an integral part of the number one ranked defense in the NFL in 1994.
“What excites me is that donors are continuing to step forward,” said head football coach Mike Gravier, who accepted the school’s first football startup gift nearly a year ago. “My fear was that after the initial excitement, the support would dwindle, but as we move forward and see more and more people stepping up, it’s encouraging that the word is still getting out, and it’s not just a flash in the pan, and people are continuing to invest in getting this program started.”
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Defensive coordinator Stacey Hairston, former vice president of the NFL Players Association.
A native of Norton, Virginia, who lived in Bluefield for eight years, Dr. Caudill gave BC a $5,000 check in June, making him one of many who continue to be a part of the making of history at BC.
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Former Bluefield College professor and longtime Bluefield, Virginia, resident Dr. Don Caudill was on the BC campus recently to become the latest booster to invest in the return of Rams football.
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Former BC professor Dr. Don Caudill (third from left) presents a $5,000 check to Rams football.
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. . . . n e.w s . . . . BC Adds Nursing to its inSPIRE Degree Comple
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Working adults looking to advance in health care administration can do so now with the help of Bluefield College. Thanks to BC’s latest addition to its inSPIRE degree completion program, students seeking to serve or those already serving in health-related fields can earn a degree that leads to advancement — a bachelor’s degree in nursing from BC.
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Bluefield College launched its inSPIRE degree completion program in 1990. Then called the Division of Adult and Continuing Education (DACE), the program was designed to offer working adults a convenient, flexible, accelerated, non-traditional way to finish their bachelor’s degree in management.
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Since then, nearly 4,000 students have graduated from inSPIRE, which today services students across Virginia with regional hubs in Roanoke, Fredericksburg and Richmond and degrees in management and leadership, public safety, and human services. Now, with significant funding from the Virginia Tobacco Commission and the Thompson Foundation, the bachelor’s degree in nursing becomes the fourth degree opportunity to be added to the program.
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14 Dr. Carolyn Keen Lewis, director of BC’s new nursing program
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“Degree programs like this are critical to the nurses and healthcare workers in southwest Virginia to be able to expand and acquire new skills required for success,” said Ruth Blankenship, vice president for advancement. “This new
nursing program will be a flexible, accessible program, taught in an accelerated learning format in various communities across southwest Virginia.” Hired to lead this inaugural registered nurse to bachelor’s degree in nursing (RN-BSN) degree completion program: Dr. Carolyn Keen Lewis, a nurse with more than 20 years of experience in health care service and education. A native of Tazewell, Virginia, Dr. Lewis came to BC from Louisville, Kentucky, where since 2009 she served as chair of Spalding University’s nursing education. During her tenure at Spalding, she planned and implemented nursing programs at the master’s, baccalaureate, and RN-BSN levels. “I feel privileged and blessed to have been chosen to lead this transformational nursing curriculum,” said Dr. Lewis about her new calling at BC. “To me, this is a mission that overwhelms me with passion and love to return to my homeland roots and heritage in southwest Virginia. It is a great time in nursing, and as a member of the community and the Bluefield College team we will offer a personable touch to nursing higher education.” Before Spalding, Dr. Lewis served four years as assistant dean of the Nursing Division at Bluegrass Community and Technical College in Lexington, Kentucky. From 2000 to 2005, she was an associate professor of nursing for the University of Kentucky, where she also served as the executive director of UK’s Chandler Medical Center for Continuing Education. In addition, from 1993 to 2000, Dr. Lewis worked as a program manager, then executive director for the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in Washington, DC. “Under the leadership of Dr. Lewis, Bluefield College is prepared to write a new chapter in its existence that I
BC Cuts Tuition, Goes Online with Degree Com At a time when most folks are paying more for less, Bluefield College is asking less for more when it comes to its inSPIRE degree completion program. In a move described as “revolutionary” and “courageous,” BC reduced its annual tuition and fees for degree completion students by 25 percent. “Most colleges, private and public, are increasing tuition,” said Dr. Larry Sinsabaugh, associate vice president for the inSPIRE program, “but Bluefield College is taking a courageous step in an act of faith to appeal to the cost conscious learners by reducing tuition.” In today’s declining economic environment where competition for jobs is stiffer than ever, a college education makes candidates much more marketable to employers. But, gaining access to
that higher education is becoming much more difficult in light of the rising cost of living and families’ falling disposable income.
typical fees means BC degree completion students will now pay 25 percent less for their bachelor’s degree.
“We want to ease the economic burden of adults who are trying to go back to college to complete their bachelor’s degree,” said Dr. Robert Shippey, vice president for academic affairs. “This reduction in tuition puts us in a position to be a better value for students and helps them get that quality higher education they so deeply desire.”
“Reports show the norm has been to raise tuition over the last two years between five and nine percent,” said Dr. Sinsabaugh, “but Bluefield College clearly stands out in front of the competition by reducing its tuition.”
Tuition for inSPIRE degree completion students will now run $325 per credit hour, compared to $385 per credit hour this past spring. That’s a 16 percent reduction, but there’s more. In addition to paying less tuition, BC inSPIRE students will receive a free netbook computer and complimentary e-textbooks as part of the tuition package. Cutting those costs, tuition, and other
Students enrolled in BC’s 36-hour core curriculum before the tuition adjustment paid roughly $15,360 in annual tuition and fees, including books. Now, they’ll pay just $11,600 annually, which includes the netbook computer and e-books. In addition to lower costs and added benefits in the netbook and e-texts, all four majors in the inSPIRE program — management and leadership, public safety, human services, and
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communities beyond Bluefield and throughout southwest Virginia, the college signed articulation agreements with three regional community colleges, including Southwest Virginia Community College in Richlands, Virginia Highlands Community College in Abingdon, and Mountain Empire Community College in Big Stone Gap.
“Building upon a strong foundation that the nurses have already received in their basic program, the BSN program at Bluefield College will enable them to meet new challenges and to be better prepared to take leadership roles in healthcare settings,” said Dr. Lewis. “The healthcare needs of individuals, families and communities demand and deserve a high skilled nursing workforce that is prepared and equipped for the future with a quality delivery system.”
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The agreements combine the community colleges’ two-year associate of applied science or registered nursing degrees with Bluefield’s bachelor of science nursing degree. Classes toward the BSN will be offered by Bluefield College on the community
college campuses to allow those with two-year nursing degrees to continue working toward the fouryear nursing degree.
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In an effort to take the new RN-BSN program to students and health care professionals in rural
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have no doubt will be filled with excellence and compassion,” said Dr. Robert Shippey, vice president for academic affairs. “We stand poised to offer a quality impact on healthcare in rural southwest Virginia, thanks to her experience and extensive background in formal education strategies.”
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. . . etion Programs
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. BC signed partnerships with Southwest Virginia Community College (pictured), Virginia Highlands Community College and Mountain Empire Community College to take its new nursing program beyond Bluefield and across southwest Virginia.
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In addition to being available online for added convenience, BC’s four inSPIRE majors feature continuous scheduling every two months, six times a year. The first of the reduced rate classes will begin October 24.
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“The college is providing an ever-present learning environment through asynchronous online learning,” said Dr. Shippey. “Students can learn at their own pace in a place and at a time that is best for them. It’s all about convenience and quality. This is not a diploma mill, but rather the opportunity for a first-rate online education taught by Christ-centered faculty at a very affordable price.”
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nursing — have been moved entirely online in an effort to meet the growing demand for more flexible, convenient, accessible degree completion programs.
Adult students can now earn their bachelor’s degree from BC entirely online at a reduced rate and with added benefits.
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“We didn’t just cut cost,” said Dr. Dale Henry, whom the college just hired as dean of online programs to transfer all the inSPIRE majors from the classroom to the online environment. “We improved value. Our degree completion programs are now more affordable, more accessible, and have better quality and service that will ensure our students have an excellent experience at Bluefield College.”
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122 Seniors
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Brittany Garton (left) of Gordonsville, Virginia, a winner of BC’s 2011 Wampler Caudill Student Leadership Award.
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122 Seniors Accept Diplomas
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One hundred twenty-two Bluefield College seniors accepted diplomas during the school’s 88th Annual Spring Commencement, May 7, outside in the campus quad against the backdrop of the majestic East River Mountain. President David Olive welcomed family and friends to the celebratory event. He congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to leave BC “with a sense of calling to a vocation that will direct your life with purpose and that is faithful to your Christian commitments.” Chair of the Board Julie Hull Johnson offered similar greetings. She spoke of the investments made by faculty, staff, trustees and others to ensure students reach their educational goals. She urged the graduates to reinvest in BC “so that students after you might have the same opportunity you had in enjoying a Bluefield College education.” In addition to the presentation of degrees, the graduation ceremony featured the presentation of three Wampler-Caudill Student Leadership Awards and one Wampler-Caudill Distinguished Faculty Award. Made possible by former professor Dr. Don Caudill in honor of his parents, Alfred and Shirley Wampler Caudill, the Leadership Awards recognize graduating seniors who have demonstrated academic excellence, Christian character, and leadership, and a BC professor who exemplifies classroom excellence, Christian character, and professional, community and church involvement. Earning the student awards this spring were Michael Messier of Haymarket, Virginia, Michael Lastfogel of Richmond, Virginia, and Brittany Garton of Gordonsville, Virginia. Messier, a graduate of BC’s inSPIRE adult degree
completion program, was acknowledged for his faith in God, compassion, and 32-year career in law enforcement. Lastfogel, another inSPIRE student, was lauded for his commitment to foreign missions, including service in South East Asia and South America. Garton, a business administration major who plans to move to Romania to work with inner-city children through Project Ruth, was recognized for reviving the school’s Phi Beta Lambda business organization. Dr. Cindy Bascom, a professor of communication, earned the Wampler Caudill Distinguished Faculty Award for her “outgoing personality,” “enthusiasm for life-long learning,” and “sincere intent to walk with personal integrity.” Dr. Bascom also was recognized for her energetic passion to help students reach their fullest potential. Dr. Dale Henry, founder and president of Your Best Unlimited, provided the Commencement address. An educator, administrator, author, speaker, trainer, consultant and entrepreneur, Dr. Henry shared stories about his daughter’s birth, her first drive in a car, funeral processions, and the passing of traditions, all for the purpose of stressing one point to the graduates. “We set traditions by the actions we take, not by the words we share,” Dr. Henry said. “Graduates, it is my sincere desire that as you
Michael Messier (left) of Haymarket, Virginia, recognized during Spring Commencement for his Christian character and leadership.
leave here today, you go on to live a life in which your actions have great influence and the things you do, not say, are passed on to others.” The 88th Annual Spring Commencement also included the reading of The Lord’s Prayer, in both English and Spanish, by Dr. Gerardo Cummings, director of global education; a dramatic scripture reading by theatre students Jennifer Bohannan, Marland Funk, Patti Goebel, Sally Goebel, Danielle Workman and James Young; a music solo by student Beth Tinsley; induction of the graduates into BC’s Alumni Association, led by Association vice president Sharon Knick; and the singing of the school’s alma mater, led by music professor Bryant Moxley.
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Faculty-Staff Update
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A host of BC faculty and staff earned a variety of professional development distinctions during the winter, spring and summer of 2011.
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Debbie Checchio was named director of financial aid in May 2011. She served in the same position years ago before taking a position at Virginia Tech as a higher education policy and planning specialist. ........................ ........................
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President David Olive was appointed by Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell in January 2011 to the Tourist Train Development Authority. He also was elected in June 2011 to the board of the International Association of Baptist Colleges and Universities (IABCU). Dr. Olive also serves on the boards for the Council of Independent Colleges of Virginia, the Virginia College Fund, the Appalachian College Association, and the Appalachian Athletic Conference.
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Amanda Parks, administrative assistant for academic affairs, was promoted in August 2011 to assistant registrar and assessment counselor. Parks has been a member of the BC staff for seven years in a variety of capacities of administration. ........................ ........................
Annette Tabor, director of major gifts, was promoted in August 2010 to associate vice president for institutional advancement. Tabor has worked on staff at the college since 2002.
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Clay Wagner, a member of BC’s maintenance staff, earned his 30-year Service Award from the college in May 2011. ........................ ........................
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Laura Wamsley, assistant athletic trainer, was promoted in August 2011 to head athletic trainer. She worked as the assistant athletic trainer for two years.
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Dr. Rob Merritt, professor of English and faculty advisor for BC’s Honor Society, was elected in April 2011 to serve on the Executive Committee of the Virginias Collegiate Honors Council.
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Amanda Jordan, admissions counselor, was promoted in August 2010 to director of institutional effectiveness. She spent two years recruiting traditional students before moving to institutional effectiveness.
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Mark Hipes, interim director of admissions, was promoted to permanent director of admissions in August 2010. Hipes also won BC’s 2011 Distinguished Staff Award in May for his “enthusiasm,” “wonderful leadership qualities,” and “passion for helping others.”
Wakunuma Nanuma was promoted in February 2011 from administrative assistant to financial aid counselor for non-traditional students. In addition to her administrative support, she will now assist inSPIRE degree completion students and eSPIRE online degree students with financial aid matters.
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Sandra Elswick, assistant professor of mathematics, earned her 30-year Service Award from BC in May 2011.
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Amy Ellison, controller, graduated in August 2010 from the College Business Management Institute (CBMI), a continuing education program designed to provide higher education business officers an extensive study of current issues and procedures in business and financial management.
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Pete Dryer, head coach for men’s soccer, was promoted in July 2011 to athletics director. Dryer came to BC in 2010 to coach men’s soccer. Shortly thereafter, he was asked to serve as acting director of athletics, before becoming the permanent AD this summer.
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Bryant Moxley, associate professor of music, appeared at New York’s celebrated Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center in June 2011. Moxley led BC’s select voice ensemble, Variations, in a choral concert, which featured elite groups from the United States that were invited to perform for the event.
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Dr. Gerardo Cummings, associate professor of languages and director of Global Education, received an Appalachian College Association Mellon Foundation Grant in February 2011 to attend a Salzburg Global Seminar in Austria.
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Dr. Scott Bryan, professor of exercise and sport science, earned his 25-year Service Award from BC in May 2011.
Werner Lind, assistant professor and assistant director of Easley Library, published a short story, titled “The Gift,” in March 2011 with Trestle Press. His short story, “Laura’s Choice,” was published in June by 10 Cities Project, an online ministry showcasing Christian contributions to the creative arts.
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Dr. Cindy Bascom, associate professor of communications, earned BC’s 2011 Wampler Caudill Distinguished Faculty Award in May for her “classroom excellence,” “Christian character,” and “professional, community and church involvement.”
Dr. Cindy Bascom
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news
Who’s Making News?
work of local journalists Bluefield College paid tribute to the Day in April, during its 12th Annual Media Appreciation and international which featured remarks from alumna of Shott tation presen the journalist Brandy Campbell and journalist Eric DiNovo Excellence in Media Awards to photo an (pictured), made and communications student Lydia Freem entrepreneur Michael Shott possible by the generosity of media Shott family who the of in an effort to help preserve the legacy in the Bluefield area. pioneered the presence of news media
The George Michael Whitmore Memo rial Scholarship at Bluefield College — established in 2006 by John (pictured right) and Patricia (pictured center) Whitmore to preser ve the memory of their son — has been providing vital financial aid to BC students for many years. It will continue to do so for many more years, since the Whitmores endowed the fund in June with a major gift to ensure that it will last forever. From Princeton, West Virginia, Georg e Whitmore enrolled at Bluefield College in 1989 before his untimely death in 1992.
student ith a gift to June 16 w t Michael on en re id tu es fu Pr its ce invested in L Senior Vi to BC gy SO k er N ec En O ch L C . 00 ge CONSO d a $5,0 field Colle $1,000 ) presente ps at Blue award five from right to ft) nd scholarshi le co m se fro chanan or red nd tu Bu ic co m (p se r d fro fe Oni students and e (picture of its coal ic year for David Oliv President -‘12 academ SOL has the majority larships, r the 2011 ho N fo sc O r C ps fo hi re d rs signate schola rginia, whe L’s future.” . While de unties in Vi monwealth t in CONSO Tazewell co investmen in the Com n ns “a io is at er so al gas op ution the contrib Onifer said
18 Music, art, theatre, biol ogy, math, criminal just ice and science were interest on the BC cam the topics of pus this summer, but not for the typical coll Kids, ages four to 13, ege student. were exploring the sub jects during the school’s Arts Camps in June and summer Fine July. Dozens of childre n from the community in the weeklong camps, took part sponsored by BC’s Fine Arts Community School and designed to give area kids the opportu (FACS) nity to explore and stud guidance from mentors y the arts with who have appropriate training and experience .
Students from BC’s chapter of Phi Beta Lambda (PBL), a national business student organization, competed in the PBL State Leadership Conference in April and brou ght home 36 awards and finish ed runnerup overall, second only to Virgi nia Commonwealth Universit y. The BC students developed business plans, designed service proje cts, offered presentations, participated in interviews, completed tests , and took part in other competition activ ities en route to garnering 15 first place awards, 13 second place prize s, and eight third place hono rs.
nts a Golden red right) prese ring Josh Cline (pictu Ellett Horne du len He a Alumni Director mn alu ty medallion to graduate, Horne cie BC So 34 tes 19 ua A ad ia. Gr , Virgin llege at in Martinsville of Bluefield Co a visit with her living alumna ginia be the oldest o attended Vir als e sh ia, is believed to gin s, Vir me e of Pocahonta and was a longti ge lle Co n age 94. A nativ ampto ge and Westh evis. Ch d, an sb hu Intermont Colle r he pastor’s wife to
k nual Jason Elswic in BC’s Fourth An st ners participated ber 10 — the mo tem Sep Seventy-nine run on e ng rship 5K Challe llars for current BC Memorial Schola e scholarship do dul designed to rais r BC student. Ab me for a ever for the event of ry mo ted by serving the me ner award, presen win students, while pre rall ove the wick, center) earned the late Jason Els Shattory (pictured wick, parents of r. ht) and David Els becoming a teache of am Pam (pictured rig dre his g fore fulfillin who lost his life be
For four weeks this pas t spring, 11 current stud ents called some 6,27 former students as par 0 t of BC’s 2011 Annual Fund Phonathon. By the event, alumni and the end of friends had pledged mo re than $48,000 to the — the highest pledge effo rt total in BC Phonathon history. Proceeds go to the BC Fund for Sch directly olarships, which is the primary financial reso urce for institutional financial aid for students.
W the 2011-‘12 academic The college ceremoniously kicked off of its annual President’s year with the pomp and circumstance in full academic regalia, BC Convocation on August 31. Dressed n Chapel for the traditional faculty and staff marched into Harma ngs to students from BC ceremony, which featured formal greeti by longtime Christian higher leadership; words of wisdom offered e of commitment to education leader Dr. Paul Corts, a pledg BC family; and the singing excellence and honor from the entire of hymns of celebration (pictured).
news
Dozens of local business and civic leaders (pictured) gathered on campus in May for the Chick-fil-A Leadercast, a professional development opportunity featuring simulcast speeches from John Maxwell, Robin Roberts, Dan Cathy, Mack Brown and other internationally known leaders and speakers. Broadcast live from Atlanta, Georgia, to more than 85,000 people at hundreds of locations around the world, including Bluefield College, the Leadercast was designed to inspire local business, civic and family leaders to “identify and develop (their) own leadership voice” and to be a “voice of change” at work, in the community, and at home.
ards year-end aw pler am s during a employee esentation of the W sociate its d re no ho , as e pr The college ay, which featured th Dr. Cynthia Bascom “Christian in M ard to nce,” ceremony Faculty Aw r “classroom excelle volvement;” in tinguished he Caudill Dis mmunication, for mmunity and church of traditional co of l, co ctor professor rofessiona to Mark Hipes, dire ip qualities,” and “p d an r,” characte l leadersh aff Award ndra guished St siasm,” “wonderfu rvice Awards to Sa y the Distin r his “enthu rs;” and 30-year Se athematics, and Cla fo s, on si othe of m admis r helping professor aff. “passion fo red left), assistant the maintenance st ictu Elswick (p agner, a member of W
19 Students at BC are con tinuing to get vital fina ncial aid, thanks to the longstanding generosity of the Credit Bureau of the Virginias Foundation For the ninth year in a . row, the Foundation don ated students, this time an scholarship money to $8,000 check presented BC in Jun e (pictured). This year’s will be used to provide gift eight $1,000 scholarships to BC students during 2011-‘12 academic yea the r. The main scholarship criteria will be to assist students who demons average trate need in obtaining a degree.
For the 33rd year in a row, students took time out from classes and books to celebrate the culmination of another academic year on April 28 with the beloved tradition known as Mud Pig Day. The 2011 version of the tradition featu red the ever-popular mud pit, a greasy waterslid e, inflatable games, lunch outside on the campus lawn , flag football, relay races up the water slide, Slip-n-Sli de Kickball, Capture the Flag, Tug-of-War over the mud pit, and a concert with former American Idol contestant Phil Stacey.
dent prospective stu students in BC’s nal high school awards during a er oth d an Twelve exceptio ips for full scholarsh nts earned Spire pool contended Five of the stude — campus in May. attend BC. Two to ses en competition on exp ir e, ich cover half the Sale of Yadkinvill na An d Scholarships, wh an ia, ver all odbridge, Virgin rships, which co ola Sch Wully Rojas of Wo l tia en sid left) — received Pre , Sale (pictured North Carolina year. In addition nt. ue of $27,780 a mmended Stude Co rit Me l expenses at a val na tio this fall as a Na enrolled with BC
tured center) is rard Robinson (pic t one of Education Ge symbolically. Jus st lea Virginia Secretary at — ate BC in llege gradu ment speech at nce now a Bluefield Co me com e his first colleg ctorate degree year after giving first Honorary Do ia son accepted his honored the Virgin e May 2010, Robin leg col the en ril 2011. titution wh d, Virginia, in Ap from the same ins on hm Ric in y on g a cerem ) made the trip policymaker durin Trustees (pictured the BC Board of ard to Robinson. aw Five members of the t sen pre l to to the state capito
The college hosted its 10th Annual Alpha Nat ural Resources Golfers Challenge in August, ’ and local golf enthusia sts who participated or supported the project helped the school earn thousands of dollars for scholarships. Earning student first place honors was the four-member team Bailey & Associates (pic from David tured), including Larry Slagle, Stacy Hairston Hood and David Bailey. , Jordon Second place went to McDonald’s, and third Ramey Ford. Individual place to awards also were presen ted to Jamie Cecil, who the longest drive, and nailed to Bill Cole, who hit the shot closest to the pin.
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Bring a grill and cooler or buy a BC box lunch for the start of football tailgating season. Corn-hole tournament, too.
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Football Tailgating Saturday, October 15 at 11:30 a.m. $8 - Mitchell Stadium
Men’ s So T e n ness ccer vs. Satu ee rday, Octo Temple ber 15 East at 2 F r e e p.m. River Socc er Co mple x
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Editor’s Note: Alumnus Nathanael Habel (‘38) attended Bluefield College from 1936 to 1938. After BC, he earned degrees from the University of Richmond in Virginia and Colgate Rochester Crozer Seminary in New York before serving 20 years in Nathanael Habel, the alumnus full time pastoral ministry. His career also includes 20 years as a teacher and principal in public education. Today, he is semi-retired in Lynchburg, Virginia, fulfilling interim pastoral and pulpit supply roles at the ripe age of 92. In this feature story, he shares in his own words an experience of mercy and forgiveness from his BC days that is still a blessing to him today.
On a recent morning before rising from my bed, I recalled a memory of an experience I had at Bluefield College. The year was 1936, my first year away from my home in Amelia, Virginia. That day of precious memory 74 years ago was not so precious at first. I was leaving the dining hall on campus that evening somewhat shamed and frightened. It all started as a prank. Fred Sutherland (‘37), a fellow student from Galax, Virginia, told those that day at lunch what he was about to do. He was going to put water in my chair where I was going to sit. When I took my seat, I jumped up instantly, greeted by laughter by all at the table. Instead of accepting it as a joke, I left that meal at noon thinking of how to get even with Fred. That evening, I got to the dining room table early so I could put some preserves in Fred’s seat. After sitting for a moment, he jumped up. When he and everyone at the table discovered his predicament, great laughter was heard
A Story of Grace and Reconciliation
again around the table. The news of what happened spread across the entire dining hall. Soon, the other students were saying, “Habel and Sutherland would fight it out after supper outside.” I did not enjoy my meal that evening. With mixed emotions, I left the table early and went to my room passing a large number of disappointed classmates along the way who were waiting for a fight. Later, I learned that Fred did just the opposite. He lingered a while until all would-be spectators left. I stayed in my room alone for about 30 minutes. I was worried a bit about being thought of as a coward by my peers. I also worried about what might come next as Fred was bigger and stronger than I was. It was not until what came next that I felt my shame and immaturity. This was triggered by a sharp knock at the door. When I opened it, there stood Fred. The hallway was empty. He looked even bigger than before. And, he was! Instead of coming in with his fist clenched, he came toward me with his hand opened and said, “Habel, there will be no fight. The boys are wrong.” That handshake was more powerful and disarming than if he had hit me first and knocked me to the floor. He apologized, and so did I. I offered to pay to have his pants cleaned. From then on, he was even bigger and taller as a friend. He taught me something of the true meaning of forgiveness.
This is not the extent of what Fred taught me. His memory is etched in my soul, because of what followed that school year. One weekend later in the spring Fred became extremely ill. He was taken to the hospital in Bluefield, but later that week he died from pneumonia.
Nathanael Habel, the student, 1938
I shall never forget the impact Fred’s life and death had upon me. I went with President Edwin C. Wade to Galax for Fred’s funeral. During the years since Fred Sutherland, Jr., that infamous cafeteria the classmate, 1937 day, I have pondered what might have been if Fred and I had not reconciled. I would have had a heavy load of guilt and shame to carry with me across the years. Instead, I think of him and thank God for the positive memories. As I am now 92 years of age, I didn’t want to let another year or day go by without putting in writing how Fred continues to bless my spirit. I pray his story will help some soul today to let God’s love restore a broken relationship and experience Christ’s forgiveness.
“He taught me something of the true meaning of forgiveness.”
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What’s new with you? We want to know what you’ve been up to. Let us know where you are and what you’re doing. Have you been promoted? Did you get a new job? Did you marry or have a new addition to the family? Let us know what’s new with you. Complete, detach, and mail this form using the postage paid reply envelope provided with this issue, or e-mail the same information to
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Name:________________________________________________________________________________________ Class Year:_____________________ Degree:__________________________________________________________
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Brewster Milton Robertson of Auburn, Alabama, recently published a novel titled Gone to Graveyards, an epic narrative of the Korean War, which was recognized by the Alabama State Senate with a resolution commending its “valuable insight” into the Korean conflict. Brewster has published three other books, including Rainy Days and Sundays, sold to producers in Hollywood for a potential movie and winner of the Golden Eye Literary Prize; The Grail Mystique; and A Posturing of Fools. A recent inductee to the Field Artillery Officer Candidate School Hall of Fame, Brewster is a writer/novelist regularly writing about the arts, authors and contemporary literature. 1958
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Joel L. Waterfield, Sr., and his wife, Jeanette, of Norfolk, Virginia, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in August 2011 with an Alaskan Cruise. Joel and Jeanette have one son and two grandsons. 1962
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Joseph L. Young of Big Stone Gap, Virginia, was invited in May 2011 to compete in the 20th Annual International Battle of Magicians at The Palace Theater in Canton, Ohio. Against 20 other magicians and entertainers from across North America, he won first place for his original routine, “Wash-o-matic.” Check out Joe’s multi-award-winning Christian show at www. josephyoungmagic.com. 1996
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Laura Torian Spring and her husband, Robert, of Roanoke, Virginia, celebrated the birth of their daughter, Josephine Faye, born May 6, 2011. Josie is their second child and a little sister to three-year-old Joshua Robert.
Carrie Reitman Wyatt and her husband, Michael, of Pensacola, Florida, welcomed a new baby boy, Elliott Thomas, to the family on August 10, 2011. Big sister, Isabel, is excited about the new family addition. 1997
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Franz E. Gilbert of Pooler, Georgia, has been named director of human resource technologies for Gulfstream Aerospace of Savannah, Georgia. Franz worked previously with RiseSmart.com, where he was regional vice president for business development, sales and client relationships for the southeastern United States.
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Joyce S. Vest of Pembroke, Virginia, an academic and career advisor in the Grado Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering in the College of Engineering at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia, since 2005, recently won the university’s 2011 Provost Award for Excellence in Advising.
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Thomas M. Brewster of Falls Mills, Virginia, recently announced his intention to seek the Democratic nomination for Northern District Supervisor in Pocahontas, Virginia. Tom has served the public education system as a teacher, principal, interim division superintendent, and university professor. He is currently chairman of the Board of Directors of the Virginia Career Education Foundation and also has served an appointment on the Tazewell County (VA) Board of Supervisors.
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Mark S. Sarver of Bland, Virginia, was hired in July 2011 to be the head coach for men’s and women’s tennis at Bluefield College. Mark has taught social studies and physical education in both Mercer (WV) and Wythe (VA) County school systems for 28 years and has coached tennis at Bluefield (WV), Graham (VA), and Bland (VA) high schools. In fact, he was nominated as a finalist for the National High School Tennis Coach of the Year Award in 1989.
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Erica Ashley Plaster and her husband, Adam, of Bluefield, Virginia, celebrated the birth of a son, Grayson Alexander, on November 28, 2010. They have a daughter, Alexis Brooke, who is now four years old. Erica is a stay-at-home mom, and Adam is a dentist.
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Kenneth Jared Hess of Bluff City, Tennessee, was elected Chief Resident of Family Medicine at Bristol (TN) Regional Medical Center. He hopes to begin a private practice in family medicine next year. 2003
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Erin Johnson DeHart of Bland, Virginia, is seeking the Republican nomination for Bland County Commonwealth’s Attorney. Erin has been employed by the Pulaski (VA) County Commonwealth’s Attorney Office for three years and served two years with the Wythe (VA) County Commonwealth’s Attorney Office. In addition, she has served as vice chairman of the Bland County Republican Party for two years. 2005
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Adam P. Cannoy married Amanda J. Grose (’07) on July 16, 2011, carrying on the tradition started by Larry (’65) and Wanda Caldwell Slagle (’65) of marrying in BC’s Harman Chapel. Amanda is an assistant director of development research at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia, and Adam is a probation and parole officer for the state of Virginia. They will reside in Wytheville, Virginia. LeAnn Lane Montgomery of Salisbury, North Carolina, is a leasing consultant for The Grand on Julian apartments. Her husband, John, is an engineer at a veterans’ hospital. 2006
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Stephen C. Mercer of Stafford, Virginia, was promoted from officer to sergeant of the Prince William County (VA) Police Department. He has 21 years of law enforcement experience, including service as a military police officer for the United States Marine Corps and tenures as a patrol officer, crime scene technician, field training officer and SWAT agent for Prince William County. Nicholas “Nick” Wade Quesenberry of North Tazewell, Virginia, graduated from Pennsylvania State Dickinson School of Law in May 2011. 2007
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Robert Canoy, Jr., of Shelby, North Carolina, recently earned the Mississippi Bar Foundation Award, given to a student who best exemplifies the attributes of a successful attorney, and the Regions Bank Award, given to the student with one of the highest grade point averages, during the Mississippi College School of Law’s annual Law Day ceremony. Sherri Shewey Dillow of Bland, Virginia, has been named general manager of the Wolf Creek Indian Village and Museum, where she will work to secure grants, increase attendance, and re-vamp the volunteer program. Sherri’s husband, Randy “Happy,” is a deputy with the Bland County (VA) Sheriff’s Office. They have three daughters, Laken, Abigail and Randi. Meghan Garrett Hardy and her husband, Jeremy (’09), of Bluefield, Virginia, celebrated the birth of their first child, Olivia Mae, on March 23, 2011.
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Bonnie Darlene Tinsley of Chesterfield, Virginia, was promoted to associate vice president of asset management at Davenport & Company in Richmond, Virginia. She has been with Davenport since 1995. 1975
Travis L. Archer and his wife, Lourdes, of Cornelius, North Carolina, were blessed with their third child, Ryan Yandel, on May 2, 2011. They have two other children, Trevor, 6, and Natalie, 3. Travis has been a police officer for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg (NC) Police Department for eight years.
Daniel R. Clark of Las Vegas, Nevada, recently published a book, titled Still Standing: Stories from a Las Vegas Living Statue, which details Clark’s personal experiences as a living statue in Vegas. Daniel is now a financial analyst. His book, including an e-edition, is available on Amazon.com.
Daniel “Dan” Collins and his wife, Blair Barnes (’63), of Fairfax, Virginia, celebrated their 48th wedding anniversary in June 2011. Both are retired from extensive careers with the Department of Defense and plan on moving to Clermont, Florida. 1970
Hugh A. White of Bluefield, West Virginia, recently earned his engineering license and is currently employed with Norfolk Southern Corporation in Bluefield.
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Juanita Henshaw Turner and her husband, Wayne (’59), of Dinwiddie, Virginia, recently celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary at The Jefferson Hotel in Richmond, Virginia. The Turners, who met at Bluefield College while working in the cafeteria as part of their work scholarship program, are enjoying semi-retirement with frequent trips to Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina. Wayne also enjoys University of Virginia athletics, gardening, and home improvement projects. Juanita is a writer of short stories and poetry and has penned a book about how she met Wayne.
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Howard H. “Pop” Hale of Bluefield, West Virginia, was featured in the Bluefield Daily Telegraph in August 2011 for his service with the United States Army’s 371st Bomb Squadron during World War II. Howard attained the rank of staff sergeant and downed three enemy airplanes in 28 missions between May 1942 and August 1943. He acquired the nickname “Pop,” because he was the oldest soldier in his squadron.
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Heather Jo Harris of Thompson Valley, Virginia, married Zackary Adam Kitts on June 19, 2011. Heather works for Tazewell County (VA) Public Schools, and Zackary is employed with Gress Engineering in Springville, Virginia. Anthony J. “A. J.” Panebianco of Buena Vista, Virginia, was recently appointed chief of police in Louisa, Virginia, after serving as a police dispatcher for the City of Covington, Virginia, and a patrol officer, sergeant, lieutenant, captain, assistant chief and chief for the Buena Vista Police Department. He has also served as a police academy instructor, emergency manager, grants professional, and consultant to other police departments. He began his law enforcement career in 1986. Joshua Trautmann of Richmond, Virginia, graduated in June 2011 from Union Presbyterian Seminary. He is now participating in a residency program as a chaplain at Virginia Commonwealth Univeristy’s Medical College. 2010
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Michelle Lynn Neel of Tazewell, Virginia, married Nathan David Fox on July 2, 2011. Michelle is a teacher at Graham Middle School in Bluefield, Virginia, and Nathan is employed by Ecko, Incorporated. Kara L. Woodward married Brian Wikle (‘11) on June 25, 2011. Kara is a social studies teacher at Rocky Gap (VA) High School, while Brian is an administrative assistant for First Century Bank of Bluefield, West Virginia. They are living in Bluefield, Virginia. 2011
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Brittany L. Garton of Gordonsville, Virginia, is currently serving a two-year mission in Bucharest, Romania with “Project Ruth,” which seeks to break the cycle of poverty by providing education and humanitarian aid. Garton will be utilizing her business skills on a daily basis in the office in Romania, and also using her passions for cooking and children’s activities in the evenings and on weekends. Travis Weaver of Weyers Cave, Virginia, recently signed a professional baseball contract with the Lake County Fielders of the North American League. Follow Travis online at www. fieldersbaseball.com
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Obituaries
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Clarice King Peters of Carrington Place, Wytheville, Virginia, and formerly of Bluefield, West Virginia, died June 24, 2011. Clarice was an active member of First Christian Church for more than 70 years, serving as president of the Christian Women’s Fellowship and as a Circle Leader. She also was a partner with the Peters and Driscoll Specialty Shop and served the community as a volunteer for the YWCA and an outreach worker with the Mercer County (WV) Commission on Aging.
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Dennis Richard Boone of Broomall, Pennsylvania, recently passed away. 1938
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Mary Esther Stone Thornhill, 93, of Bluefield, West Virginia, died March 23, 2011. Mary worked as an office manager and bookkeeper for Feuchtenberger, McGhee & Barringer Law Firm for 40 years and was a past president of the Bluefield Quota Club. 1940
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Kathryn Thompson Bowman, of Cedar Bluff, Virginia, died July 23, 2011. She worked for Pocahontas Fuel Company for seven years and taught at Richlands (VA) High School. She also was a member of the Richlands Presbyterian Church and a charter member of the Cedar Bluff (VA) Garden Club. 1941
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Joseph R. Rodriguez, 89, of Newburgh, New York, died April 16, 2011. Joseph was a U.S. Army Air Force veteran of World War II, where as a member of the Mighty 8th he flew in B-24 Liberators and earned a Purple Heart, the Air Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, the European African Middle Eastern Service Medal, and the Distinguished Flying Cross. He also was president of the Anglo American Corporation in Bronxville, New York, until his retirement in 1981. 1942
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Martha Eva Davidson Rodrian of Westerville, Ohio, formerly of Rocky Gap and Roanoke, Virginia, passed away March 2, 2011.
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Harold W. “Bud” Coppinger of Bluefield, West Virginia, died September 5, 2011. Bud served in the Army Air Corps during World War II, before joining his father in business at Coppinger Machinery Service in Bluefield, where he retired in 1981 as executive vice president. Bud also served on the boards of the Bluefield Union Mission, Commercial Bank, Hawaii Baptist Academy, Southwest Virginia Community College, and Bluefield State College. In addition, he was a member of the Kiwanis Club of Bluefield, president of the Bluefield YMCA, a speaker for the Gideon’s International Ministry, an elder at Westminster Presbyterian Church, and a 25-year veteran Sunday school teacher at Trinity United Methodist Church.
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Joseph Harry Wilds, III, 80, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away July 18, 2009. He was born in Bluefield, West Virginia, to the late Joseph and Maye Wilds. 1954
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Iloe Read Stallard of Wise, Virginia, died November 21, 2010. She was a retired educator and farmer and was a member of Wise Baptist Church, the American Association of University Women, and Alpha Psi Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma. She also served on the boards for the Lonesome Pine Regional Library and the University of Virginia at Wise Foundation. 1955
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Jack Deskins, 87, of Greenville, South Carolina, passed away February 12, 2011.
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Jack H. Harry, 73, of Tazewell, Virginia, died May 11, 2011. Jack was a U.S. Army veteran, serving in the 2nd Armored Division, before serving as president of Harry Enterprises and mayor of the Town of Tazewell. He also was a 50-year member of the Masonic Lodge and a member of the American Legion. In addition, he attended Main Street United Methodist Church in Tazewell, but was a member of Brushfork (WV) United Methodist Church. 1959
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Ira F. Smith, Jr. of Kent, Washington, passed away on Sunday, November 29, 2009. 1961
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Ryland Wayne Musick, Sr., 69, of Bluefield, Virginia, died July 23, 2011. Wayne served the U.S. Army in the Vietnam War before becoming a professional engineer with the West Virginia Division of Highways, where he helped design East River Mountain Tunnel. He also was a member of Memorial Baptist Church in Bluefield and was an avid dancer. 1962
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William “Bill” Clarence Collins, 71, died July 13, 2011. Bill served the Army National Guard at Fort Knox before becoming a systems analyst at United Virginia Bank and an office manager at James Carr Insurance Company. Bill also was a member of the Tuckahoe Volunteer Rescue Squad, where he became a life member before retiring to serve as treasurer. In addition, he was an assistant scout leader for the Boy Scouts. 1966
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Charles Robert “Bob” Pattisall, 61, of Virginia Beach, Virginia, died May 4, 2008. Bob was an Army artillery specialist 5th class, serving his country during the Vietnam War. After BC, he attended Southeastern Theological Seminary before serving in the ministry for 25 years. 1968
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Betty Jean Berry, 81, of Longview, Texas, passed away March 16, 2011. She was a retired history teacher for the Pine Tree Independent School District. She also was a member of First Baptist Church, East Texas Historical Society, National Council for Social Studies, and Story League. 1983
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Deirdra Faye Wade, 48, of Wilmington, North Carolina, died January 25, 2011. After BC, she earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering from West Virginia University Institute of Technology, before beginning a career in electrical engineering with Cogentrix of Hopewell, Virginia; Main Yankee Atomic Power Company in Wiscasset, Maine; Carolina Power and Light in Raleigh, North Carolina; Corning in Wilmington, North Carolina; and finally General Electric (GE) Hitachi Nuclear Energy in Wilmington, North Carolina. Deirdra was a member of GE’s African American Forum and a member of New Covenant Holiness Church in Wilmington. Friends
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Susan Haynes Stratton of Richmond, Virginia, the wife of Eddie Stratton, chief financial officer for the Baptist General Association of Virginia (BGAV) and the Virginia Baptist Mission Board, died April 22, 2011. Susan was a schoolteacher in Danville, Charlottesville, Augusta County and Waynesboro, Virginia. She also started and directed a pre-school program at First Baptist Church in Waynesboro. In addition, she served as a bridal consultant.
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Editor’s Note: Bluefield College reserves the right to edit class notes or other content submitted for publication in the Alumni Magazine based on space, grammar, style, content, and other formatting standards. The college also may edit or not include submissions that promote beliefs contrary to the values and mission of the school.
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The facility, to be built in three phases, will house a 1,000-seat intercollegiate competition gymnasium, recreation gymnasium, indoor walking track, multi-use classrooms, coaches’ offices and a natatorium.
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The benefits
The Campus & Community Wellness Center is a $14 million structure that will sit on the BC campus on the east end of campus where the Dome currently resides.
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Designed by award-winning architects from Thompson and Litton in Tazewell, Virginia, and said to be a “state-of-the-art” building with “nothing comparable to it in the area,” the facility will total more than 65,000 square feet and will serve the recreational, fitness and activity interests of Bluefield College students, faculty, staff and alumni. This facility will not only be an important asset to the College, but also to the community and region.
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The Vision
$2,000,000 $500,000 $25,000 $50,000 $50,000 $75,000 $75,000 $10,000 $500 $125
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Phase 1 Weight Training Facility Strength and Free Weights First Aid/Preparatory Area Men’s Team Locker Room (3) Women’s Team Locker Room (3) Men’s Basketball Locker Room Women’s Basketball Locker Room Officials’ Locker Rooms Lockers (192) Pavers
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The Goals The goals of the Campus & Community Wellness Center are to:
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• Offer programs and services to the campus and surrounding community emphasizing awareness, prevention, and positive, healthy behavior; • Provide current and accurate information on personal and community health issues; • Foster a campus environment supportive of a healthy lifestyle; • Provide knowledge and skills to improve and maintain health that may enhance academic and/or work performance; • Respond to the needs of recruitment and retention of a diverse population; • Provide leisure education to enhance personal development; and • Create opportunities to expand collegiate sports.
Yes, I’d Like to Join the Adventure!
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Gifts of all sizes will be recognized on a wall of donor recognition inside the facility.
Complete, detach and mail this form with your gift to Bluefield College using the postage-paid reply envelope provided with this publication.
I would like my pledge to commence ___________________ and end ___________________ .
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I would like to take advantage of the following naming opportunity:________________________________________
I would like to make my pledge payments: annually semi-annually quarterly monthly
Please accept my gift of: $
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to my credit card. Visa MasterCard Account Number:____________________________ Exp.__________
PIN (three-digit number on back of card):_______ Signature:______________________________________________
Please contact me for payment information. Name:_________________________________________________ Address:_______________________________________________ City:_______________________ State:_______ Zip:_____________ Phone:_________________________________________________ Email:_________________________________________________
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Please charge my gift of: $
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t h e. l a s. t w o. r d . . Campus & Community Wellness Center
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ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
. October 13–16
Homecoming 2011, featuring music, dancing, theatre, golf, soccer, an auction, alumni awards, and football for the first time since 1941. ........................ ........................
. . . November 7–9 . . .
To transform imagination into reality, Bluefield College is embarking on the largest fundraising effort in its history. Capturing the Imagination will put vitally needed resources behind priority projects. New Programs
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Mark Your Calendar
Student Activities Center BC Fund for Scholarships
March 16–17
Alumni Choir Reunion Weekend, featuring an alumni choir concert and recognition for longtime music professor Bryant Moxley.
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BC at the BGAV. Visit our booth, register for prizes, meet other alumni. ........................ ........................ Endowment Facility Renovations and Additions
April 2011
Alumni Reunion Month with gatherings in Greater Richmond, Fredericksburg, Northern Virginia, Tidewater, Greater Roanoke, and Mercer-Tazewell.
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Make your commitment today to support tomorrow.
Athletic Fields
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When one of America’s most prized living artists applies her gifts to illustrating one of the more prominent, revered structures on the campus of Bluefield College...
Visit bluefield.edu/ imagination
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April 23
Greater Richmond Athletics Golf Tournament. Play golf, win prizes, and raise money for athletic scholarships.
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The result is a work of art no BC alumnus should be without. Order your P. Buckley Moss Harman Chapel print today. Call 304.327.7111.
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Remember Bluefield College in your will and estate plans.
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3000 College Drive • Bluefield, Virginia 24605
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NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID BLUEFIELD COLLEGE
