Summer/Fall 2010 - University of the Cumberlands

CAMPUS NEWS
University of the Cumberlands’ new online master’s program utilizes video conferencing with Christian leaders
University of the Cumberlands’ new online Master of Arts in Christian Studies (MACS) program utilizes nationally known Christian
leaders as guest speakers in the virtual classroom. According to Dr. Keith Goforth, director of the program, “Students will be able
to dialogue [with] and learn from some of the most respected and influential Christian leaders
in the nation. This is done by bringing guest speakers into the virtual classroom through web
conferencing. It’s like attending a conference but also having the opportunity to dialogue with the
guest speaker and obtain a degree.”
An important element of each course is providing students the opportunity to exchange ideas in
discussion boards and work on practical case studies related to real ministry experiences. Online
guest speakers then have the opportunity to comment on these same discussions and case studies,
imparting their expertise in specific ministry fields. Guest speakers for the fall terms include Thom
Rainer, Perry Noble, Leonard Sweet, Reggie McNeal, Shane Claiborne, Tony Merida, Marlene
LeFever, Doug Fields, Paul Chitwood, Bill Henard and Voddie Baucham.
According to Dr. Bob Dunston, chair of the Religion Department, "The Master of Arts in Christian
Studies program is designed to blend both the academic study of the Bible and Christian theology
with the practical application of Biblical faith and theology in ministry settings. Our program will
challenge and encourage our students to think critically and creatively as they apply the gospel in
the 21st century.”
For more information, go to http://gradweb.ucumberlands.edu/religion/macs or call 606-539-4222.
Dr. Keith Goforth, director of
Cumberlands new Master of
Arts in Christian Studies.
Dr. J. Charles Smiddy
1926-2010
Photo Submitted
University of the Cumberlands lost a dear friend on June 30, 2010, when Dr. J. Charles Smiddy
passed away in Knoxville, Tenn.
A member of Cumberlands’ Board of Trustees since 1995, J. Charles Smiddy also held
an honorary doctorate in business administration from the University. A strong supporter of
Cumberlands, he provided the funding for the J. Charles Smiddy Campus Entrance Building
and the Smiddy Learning Center as well as the beautiful fountain and rose garden in front
of the Center, which honors the memory of his wife of 59 years, Jean Marion Smiddy.
“My heart has been in this town for years,” Smiddy once remarked.
A native of Williamsburg, Dr. Smiddy returned from service as a U.S. Marine in
World War II and began his business career as co-owner and manager of S. D. Smiddy and
Son Grocery in Jellico. He then became an area salesman for the Renfro Wholesale Grocery in
Williamsburg.
In 1952, Smiddy joined White Lily Foods Company and retired in 1995 as the
vice president of consumer sales. After retirement he served as President and CEO of S.N.S.
Enterprises, Inc., and C.N.E. Enterprises, Inc.
Dr. Smiddy was a long time member of Central Baptist Church of Fountain City
and a member of Moulders Sunday School Class.
He is survived by three children: Gloria Smiddy Price and Robert C. Price, Robert M.
Smiddy and Marketta Harris Smiddy, Carolyn Smiddy Ellenburg and Dr. Donald Ellenburg, six
grandchildren and seven great grandchildren, as well as many other friends and relatives.
6 CumberlandToday Summer 2010