FALL 2008 - McMurry University

THE Alumni Magazine ofMcMurry UniversityFALL 2008PublisherMcMurry UniversityRelations OfficeBox 938 McM StationAbilene, Texas 79697Editor-in-ChiefNancy Smith ’79EditorsGary EllisonLori ThorntonAlumni EditorGreeley Myers ’93Art DirectorSheila Kitts ’01PhotographersGary EllisonSheila KittsContributing WritersBrenda Davis ’78Ben DobsonGary EllisonGreeley Myers ’93John RussellNancy Smith ’79©2008McMurry PRESIDENTand OFFICERSDr. John H. RussellPRESIDENTDr. Beverly LenoirVICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRSDave VoskuilVICE PRESIDENT FOR ENROLLMENTMANAGEMENTLisa WilliamsVICE PRESIDENT FOR FINANCIAL AFFAIRSSteve CrismanVICE PRESIdenT FOR INSTITUTIONALADVANCEMENTBrad PoormanVICE PRESIDENT FOR INFORMATION &Support SERVICESMcMurry’s New Generationof Rising Stars4 Burgundy Road6 Happy Castro8 Kay Younggren10 Jorge Montoya12 JoLisa Hoover14 Shana Bristow16 Ogonna Merritt17 George Levesque18 Cornell Watts12McMurry University isenjoying its largest totalenrollment since 1988 anda record number of newstudents for the Fall 2008semester. McMurry opensthe academic year thisfall with an enrollmentof 1522 total students, upfrom 1466 last year, a 4.1%increase and the largestenrollment in recenthistory.20 Athletics UpdateFriends & Family23 From the Alumni Director24 Event Photos28 Class Notes34 Friends We’ll Miss23McMurry and the AbileneIndependent SchoolDistrict unveiled the5th Grade Math/ScienceMagnet classroom August19. The classroom consistsof 22 fifth grade studentswho will be taughtthe regular fifth-gradecurriculum required bythe state of Texas, withan emphasis on math andscience.33Record Enrollment Magnet School DNA SequencerMcMurry has receiveda grant from LI-CORBiosciences to helppurchase a DNAsequencer, possiblythe first of its kind inAbilene. The $102,000instrument is a workhorsein biotechnology, withapplications in genetics,molecular biology,medical researchand much more. Theinstrument will be acornerstone for the newBachelor of Science degreein Biomedical Science.

McMurry’s NewGeneration ofRising StarsThey’re young...they’re talented...and they’re shaping the future!Samuel Ullman was an American businessman, poet and humanitarianwho died in 1924. He is best known for the poem entitled Youth, whichwas a favorite of General Douglas McArthur. The poem speaks ofyouth, not in the context of age but in the quality of one’s existence anda capacity for excellence. It begins:Youth is not a time of life—it is a state of mind,it is a temper of the will,a quality of the imagination,a vigor of the emotions,a predominance of courage over timidity,of the appetite for adventure over love of ease.This implies that any person at any age can possess an internal“fountain of youth” that springs from constantly reviewing, reassessingand renewing one’s outlooks, goals and perceptions of the world andour place in it. “Youth” in this description is the most productive stagein one’s life. Likewise, as we age, we tend to become more cynical,more preoccupied with daily pressures and the monotony of routine,and in general, we have less physical energy to turn our great ideasinto realities. When this occurs, our “fountain” may be reduced to a“trickle.”Young people, and more specific to the context of this Chieftain,young alumni of McMurry University, do possess the physical2 McMurry University

McMURRY’S RISING STARSMcMurry was an incubator for them to channel their ideas and refine theircreativity, a testing and resting place for them to mature...energy to turn great ideas into realities, as well as theknowledge and educational credentials to impact theworld of medicine, law, technology and business. Doall achieve the same levels of success in their chosencareers? Certainly not, but we are constantly madeaware of young alumni who have made extraordinaryaccomplishments. Through this issue of the Chieftain,you will meet some of them.What are the keys to their success? According tothe Center for Generational Studies, our young alumnifall into the generational category of individuals bornbetween 1981 and 1994. Also known as “GenerationY” or “Millennials,” they are by nature optimistic,entrepreneurial and creative; they have a positiveoutlook and are a forward thinking generation. Anddespite what some Baby Boomers may think, theyrespect opinions of older generations and respond wellto mentoring from older individuals. An award-winningauthor and motivational speaker from Austin, Texas,named Jason Dorsey, was eighteen years old when hewrote his first book and developed a career preparationcurriculum for high school students. Now age 30, herefers often in his books and his speeches to variousmentors who were influential to his success: “If anyonehas made the most positive difference in my life, it hasbeen my mentors. Consistently, their encouragement,guidance and wisdom have kept me on the path toachieving my goals.”In reading the following pages about successfulyoung alumni, you will see a common strand thatlinks all of them. McMurry was an incubator for themto channel their ideas and refine their creativity, atesting and resting place for them to mature underthe nurturing guidance of caring mentors in theform of professors, coaches, campus ministers andadministrative staff.Here is a sampling of their comments about theseindividuals:“My professors shared one-on-one time listening….”“The faculty and staff…served with such kindness andgenuine concern…”“There were so many people who encouraged me.”“I must now give my patients the same gift myprofessors gave me—personal attention.”“[My professor] was always concerned for my wellbeingand I knew she cared about me as a person.”“He always told me to do the right thing, but moreimportantly, he taught me that by his example.”“[My coaches] taught me guiding principles for myfuture life.”Throughout each story, you will see namesof individuals who shaped the lives of these youngalumni through belief in their abilities and througha commitment to helping them discover and refinetheir talents. These mentors encouraged, nurturedand gave of themselves selflessly, and our Rising Starsdirectly attribute much of their success to those caringindividuals. The productive traits of youth that Ullmanrefers to are shared by caring mentors, along with theirexperiential wisdom, through the mentorship process.Talented young servant leaders, such as our Rising Stars,infuse their own dreams and goals, and then utilizetheir talents and energies to positively impact futuregenerations through new discoveries and improvedmethodologies.An institution of higher learning is only assuccessful as its graduates’ contributions, and itsgraduates are only as successful as the quality of theeducational, spiritual and interpersonal experiencesthey receive during their college careers. McMurryUniversity is proud of the contributions of these youngRising Stars and many more like them, and we are proudof the impact that this University and its people havemade in their lives. •M cMurry University 3

Shaping aMelody of Hopefor the FutureBurgundy Road(Phillip Cole ex ’02, Cody Brotherton ’05, Nik Shehu ’04,Jason Bray ’07, Trey Glaspie ’07)The popular Christian praise and rock band, BurgundyRoad, has a lot of maroon connections. All five of theband members are McMurry University graduates whoare vocal about their appreciation to the McMurryfamily who helped them develop the gifts and talentsthey gained here to minister to youth and adultstoday. The band plays both original music and familiarworship songs and currently has a new album out withall original tunes.The band started when Phillip Cole and twoother students, Deb Smith and Tyson Alexander, beganplaying for a McMurry Bible study called Prayer andPraise. Burgundy Road has come a long way from threeMcMurry students who “would have made God coverHis ears,” said lead singer Phillip Cole with a laugh.Cody Brotherton (bass) and Nik Shehu (rhythm guitar)joined the band the next year. Drummer Jason Brayjoined the group the following year, and they met TreyGlaspie (lead guitar) at McMurry while doing a benefitconcert 3 ½ years ago. They have been performingtogether for more than five years now.Originally called Yesterday’s Tomorrow, the groupdiscovered there was another band by that name. Thename Burgundy Road developed from a sermon Phillipheard at Aldersgate United Methodist Church regardingJesus’ road to Calvary and how “our lives will havesuffering, sacrifice and servanthood, as well as blessingand joy. So the name of the band is ametaphor for the Road to Calvary.”The band continued to learn anddevelop as they played in Texas YouthCommission facilities across the stateover the next three years. Talent andperseverance led to opportunity. “Thingsstarted happening without us necessarilyasking for it or even wanting it,” saidPhillip. “God started having plans for us,and we told Him we would go where Hewanted.” The five members of BurgundyRoad lead worship at River ValleyChristian Fellowship in Bastrop andall hold the position of worship leader.Phillip expressed the band’s commitmentto their church by stating, “We arecommitted to leading worship at thatchurch. Even if we have been performinglate on Saturday, wherever we are, wewill drive in for church on Sunday.”Burgundy Road also travelsfulltime as a worship and concert bandat summer camps and youth events suchas Disciple Now. “It’s really busy,” saidPhillip. “The band likes to perform at Christian campsbecause we have time to invest in the kids and get toknow them better.” The band’s popularity may havesomething to do with their work ethic and their obviouslove for the youth they work with. Phillip shared thefollowing experience: “In our last camp, a missioncamp called Mission Serve in the South Oak Cliffneighborhood in Dallas, we woke up at 6:00 a.m. withthe kids, had worship at 7:00. Then we went to workfrom 8 until 4, and then led worship at night. Our bandmotto for ministering to youth is ‘90 percent offstage,10 percent on’. You have to get people to trust you.”During their tour last summer, the groupincluded a return to McMurry for one of their summercamps. “It was great to be back and see where it all cametogether,” stated Phillip, and then reflecting back on theband’s time at McMurry, he continued, “McMurry was4 McMurry University

Shaping aSafe andHealthy FutureDr. Arturo Felix “Happy” E. Castro1997 Graduate of McMurry University with a B.B.A.in Business FinanceService with a smile! Whether it is military serviceor medical service, that is what you get from HappyCastro. Happy was born Arturo Felix E. Castro in 1972in the Philippines. The name “Felix” means “Happy” inLatin. Whether his christening was prophetic or he justgrew to fit the moniker, he was appropriatelynamed.In 1992, Happy moved with his familyto Los Angeles, California. He began hisundergraduate work in Business Finance atU.C.L.A. During that time he joined the AirForce and was stationed at Dyess Air ForceBase. In Abilene he spent a good deal of hisdaytime hours serving his country and thenspent his “free time” pursuing a bachelor’sdegree at McMurry. It was at McMurry thathis course would change as he began to takethe first steps toward a lifetime of serviceto mankind in another field—the field ofmedicine. He graduated from McMurry in1997 and entered medical school at U.N.T.Health Sciences Center-Texas College ofOsteopathic Medicine in Fort Worth.During this time, Happy had finishedhis commitment to the Air Force and joinedthe Air National Guard. From November 2007to January 2008, he was called upon to serve as a FlightSurgeon for the 332nd Air Wing, historically knownas the “Tuskegee Airmen.” This deployment was in AlAssad, Iraq with the Michigan Air National Guard.“I must say that I am so proud to have served with somany brave and wonderful young men and women,most of whom are still there serving much longer toursthan I did and under much more dire circumstances.”Happy added, “I worked in both the clinic and thehospital and was witness to an incredible amount ofbravery and honor, furthering my faith in America andour capability to do anything we set our minds to.”When asked how his experience at McMurryUniversity helped prepare him, a student with a B.B.A.in Business Finance, for medical school, Happy wasquick to answer. “Although medicine is a very high techprofession, patients are really only interested in two6 McMurry University

McMURRY’S RISING STARS“I must say that I amso proud to have servedwith so many braveand wonderful youngmen and women.”things. Number one, they want to know their doctorcares about them and what they are going through.Number two, they want to know, to whatever degreepossible, what happens next.” Dr. Castro says that“this is conveyed to the patient through one-on-oneinteraction. Youmust listen tobe able to help.My professors atMcMurry sharedone-on-one timelistening to andanswering myquestions. Nowthat I am on theother end of theconversation andI am now thedoctor, I mustgive my patientsthe same gift myprofessors gaveme – personalattention.”Dr. Castrowent on to say, “Ican’t tell you the name of a single professor that I hadat U.C.L.A. but I can tell you that Dr. Gary Wilsonwrote my letter of recommendation for medicalschool. He didn’t ask me to bring my information tohis secretary and they would put something together.He told me to come to his office and he asked mequestions. He wanted to help me know I was makingthe right decision. When he wrote my letter, hewas able to do it because he had listened to me.” Hefurther emphasized the point by adding, “During myorganic chemistry class, I had a question that I couldnot resolve. I asked the teacher, Dr. McMahon, if hecould help me with it. He took me into his office andspent the next two hours answering my questions andworking with me personally until I understood. Myinstructors were never too busy to listen to me, and Iwant to give that same attention to my patients. Thatis one of the greatest gifts McMurry gave to me.”Dr. Castro has fond memories of his timeat McMurry. He said that there would often belong periods between classes during which he wasunable to return to base. He spent that time makingfriends and getting to know McMurry. “When Ireceive my Chieftain, it is like getting a letter frommy family. I immediately turn to the back and lookfor my classmates. They were my family while I wasin Abilene, and it gives me a good feeling to think ofthem and of my time spent there.”At the present time, Dr. “Happy” Castro hasone year of residency to complete at Genesys RegionalMedical Center in Grand Blanc, Michigan. He ispursuing subspecialty training in Pulmonary, CriticalCare and Sleep Medicine. He is on course to graduatein 2009. At that time, he hopes to return to Texas tostart a practice. McMurry University appreciates hisservice and is very proud to have Dr. Arturo Felix“Happy” E. Castro in our alumni family. •M cMurry University 7

McMURRY’S RISING STARS“Job success isn’t dependent on where your degree comes from,but on the values that you learn there through the collegeexperience. Those values serve you well in the workplace.”After graduation, Jorge was hired by the localFOX-TV affiliate in sales, and a year later joined theKTXS-TV sales team. According to Jorge, “Everyonekept telling me youhave got to have salesexperience, so I went intothe television business. Ireally liked it and startedmoving up. The peopleat KTXS took noticeand I was hired.” FromKTXS, Jorge accepted aposition as a sales managerin Montana, where herepresented four NBCstations. “At the time, itwas just Shannon and me,so we considered it anadventure. We were therefor four years and loved it.”But Jorge was destinedto return to Abilene. Afterhearing of a job openingfor general manager atKRBC-TV, he made adecision to set a new coursefor himself and his family.“We were expecting ourfirst son, Logan, at the timeand Shannon had familyhere, so we chose familyover beauty [of Montana]and came back in 2003,” he explained. When KRBCmerged with CBS affiliate KTAB in 2004, Jorge returnedto KTXS as general sales manager. Because of his pastwork experience, it proved to be an easy transition. Inaddition to the ABC affiliate, he also manages The CWNetwork, the San Angelo ABC affiliate and the Spanishlanguage station KTES-Telemundo.Regarding his educational experience atMcMurry, Jorge states, “When we got out into thebusiness world, even though we were competing againstpeople with degrees from bigger universities, we sawthat job success isn’t dependent on where your degreecomes from, but on the values that you learn therethrough the college experience. Those values serve youwell in the workplace.”In addition to their son, Logan, who was bornafter the family’s return to Abilene, a second son, Finley,was born almost two years ago. According to Jorge,“Abilene has always been a great community. We knowa lot of people here and it is a nice place to raise ourfamily.” He adds, “It would take a lot for us to movefrom here, but you always have to keep your optionsopen.”In his role as father, Jorge is already planningahead. He stated, “McMurry was great to Shannon andme, and it’s a great place to get an education. When ourkids are ready, we will certainly encourage them to goto McMurry.” The University looks forward to the nextgeneration of Montoya children, who will join otheralumni in shaping a bright future, whether in Abilene,Texas or Vitoria, Spain. •M cMurry University 11

ShapingPositiveRelationshipsShana Bristow1992 Graduate of McMurry University with a B.A.in BusinessEven though 15 years separates Shana Norman Bristowfrom her college days at McMurry, she still draws dailyfrom her college experiences in learning to succeed inthe fast-paced world of international corporate publicrelations. A 1992 McMurry graduate, Bristow currentlyserves as senior vice president for Fleishman-HillardInternational Communications. Her agency work hasfocused primarily on corporate clients. Though shehas worked with many industries, her main focus is onhealthcare. She is currently working with an oncologygroup, and much of her efforts for them focus on cancerprevention and early detection.Regarding her job responsibilities, Shana states, “Ido media relations. When a reporter wants to talk to oneof my clients, I help arrange that interview and preparethe spokesperson.” Her duties at Fleishman-Hillard alsoinclude making company announcements, suggestingstories to the media to educate them about clients, andconducting internal communications for companies.Shana admits that she wasn't sure she would like workingin an agency because it was so different from previouswork experiences, but she realized “there are greatopportunities and sometimes you have to weather thelearning curves and challenging times to achieve success,and then be able to use the lessons learned to helpothers."Shana’s career journey has convinced her thateach career position a person holds helps set the stagefor subsequent job opportunities. “For me, it's easy totrace my path back to McMurry,” she states. A year aftergraduating, she spent five years in various capacities atMcMurry. That experience helped her land a job at theCouncil for Advancement and Support of Education inWashington, D.C. She explains, “The combination ofthese two experiences positioned me well for my currentposition.”Shana credits her college experience as animportant factor in her career success, stating that "goingto a small university gave me the opportunity to holdleadership positions in a variety of organizations. Thathands-on experience working with diverse personalitiesand learning the fine art of multi-tasking has provedinvaluable.” Her multi-tasking skills are also valuable asshe balances work and family. She explains, "Like every14 McMurry University

Shaping theLegal ProfessionOgonna Merritt2000 Graduate of McMurry with a Degree in Englishand CommunicationDuring her time at McMurry as a member of thewomen’s basketball team, Ogonna Merritt spentmany long hours on a bus. In order to keep up withher academic work, she often spent those long tripsstudying and writing papers. Little did she know thatshe would learn a valuable lesson that she utilizes tothis day. She explains, “Because of the travel involved,it taught me how to manage mytime. That is important in my jobnow because no matter how muchI travel, I know how to properlyschedule my time.” Instead of abus, Ogonna now spends much ofher time on an airplane travelingthe country as an attorney for anational firm. She is an advocate forindividuals filing for Social SecurityDisability claims. While the mode oftransportation has changed, Ogonnastill utilizes her travel time toprepare for many cases at one time.Ogonna excelled both inthe classroom and on the basketballcourt during her time on campus.She was a two-time All ConferenceSelection and was named the American SouthwestConference Athlete of the Year in 2000. Ogonna wasalso selected to the Academic All Conference Teamin 2000. She received national recognition during hertime at McMurry when she was named the ArthurAshe Jr. All American Sports Scholar, which honorsAfrican American student athletes who maintain a“I believe that your experienceat a smaller school is a morerealistic preparation for the oneon-onesituations you will facein the workplace.”3.2 cumulative GPA or better and are active on theircampuses and in their communities. As a doublemajor in English and Communications, Ogonnacredits former McMurry English Professor Dr. CharlesEtheridge as being an influential faculty memberduring her time as a student at McMurry. According toOgonna, “He was always encouraging in the classroom,and while he was supportive of mebeing a student-athlete, he neverallowed that to be an excuse fornot being prepared for class.” Shealso believes that her education hasprepared her well for her career asan attorney. “Being an English majortaught me to carefully analyze textsand be deliberate about the materialI was reading. That skill has servedme well in the legal profession.”After graduating fromMcMurry in 2000, Ogonna workedfor a year before attending LawSchool at the Thurgood MarshallSchool of Law at Texas SouthernUniversity. While attending TexasSouthern, she recognized anotherimportant lesson from McMurry. “Because McMurryis a small school, it places you in situations where youcommunicate on a more personal basis.” She sharedthat rather than being a “number” at a large school,McMurry’s size gave her the opportunity to acquirebetter communication skills that she now utilizes ona day-to-day basis. “I believe that your experience at16 McMurry University

McMURRY’S RISING STARSa smaller school is a more realistic preparation for theone-on-one situations you will face in the workplace.”After law school, Ogonna spent a year doingcontract work before joining her current firm. Ogonnanow works in assisting clients whose initial claimsfor Social Security Disability have been denied. “It’srewarding for me because I enjoy using my legalexpertise to help people who really need my help. Manytimes I know that their well-being is dependent uponthe assistance I can give them in helping grant theirclaim.” Because of the nature of the type of law shepractices, Ogonna estimates that she appears in courtan average of 25 times a month.Despite the hectic nature of her schedule,Ogonna keeps it all in perspective. She states, “Forme it is about the clients that I am trying to help;sometimes I wish I could do more to help them.” AtMcMurry, her drive and desire to excel pushed her toachieve great success on the basketball court. Now sheis pushing to excel in another “court” but is using thatsame determination to achieve more in her professionalcareer. If her past performance is any indication of herfuture achievements, her clients couldn’t be in betterhands. •Shapingthe Voice ofBroadcastingGeorge Levesque1996 Graduate of McMurry University with a Degreein TheatreTo many people, the thought of talking to thousandsof people every day as a news anchor is a terrifyingthought, but to George Levesque ’96, it is somethingthat comes very naturally. “As a theatre major atMcMurry, being an anchor satisfies the ‘performancepart’ of what I do. I get to have a voice, and I feel verygrateful that I do.” George is the anchor for the numberone rated 5:00 p.m. news show in Abilene, “KTXS Liveat Five,” and he also serves as the News Director for theAbilene ABC affiliate.George has always felt comfortable in the publiceye. As a theatre major at McMurry, George starred inmany campus productions. But he credits McMurrytheatre professor, Charlie Hukill, for always mentoringhim in a positive way. “He taught me the most by beingtough on me.” In particular, George recalls a specificmeeting after enjoying a very successful freshman yearat McMurry. “I thought I was at the top of my game.I had been cast in leads and had a few good reviewsM cMurry University 17

written about me in the paper. Charlie brought me backdown to earth. He told me my attitude had made mea sloppy actor. He also said that until I refocused onmy craft, I wouldn’t be cast in any lead roles by him. Itworked! I buckled down and worked harder than ever. Iearned his respect, and became a better actor and a betterperson for it.” To this day, Charlie remains a mentor toGeorge and they meet for lunch every week.Much of what he learned at McMurry hasinfluenced George in his current position. As a“West Texas boy” from Colorado City, he states, “Mycommunications courses taught me to lose my WestTexas accent.” In addition, George still relies on what helearned as a political science minor to help him advisepolitical reporters at KTXS in their assignments. Georgealso credits McMurry professor, Dr. Philip Craik, forconvincing George to consider a career in television news.“He was my advisor and the person who convinced methat television news would be a good career for me. Hesuggested that my love of news and my interest in politicsmight make anchoring a good career choice.”Looking back on his McMurry experience,George states that he “loved McMurry.” That was evidentby his involvement in many activities. In addition to hisinvolvement in theatre, George was active in Chantersand HEI men’s social club and was the Sweetheart forGamma Sigma women’s social club. When asked if hehas any advice for current students, George simply“I earned his respect, andbecame a better actor and abetter person for it.admonishes them to “soak in the experience. I know thatall those activities I was involved in gave me skills that ledme to where I am today.” He also encourages studentsand alumni of McMurry to stay involved. Despite his busyschedule, George and his wife, Sydney, stay involved withMcMurry. In addition to attending theatre productions,they attend almost every home basketball game.Incidentally, if you ever attend a McMurry basketballgame at Kimbrell Arena, the voice of the public addressannouncer is none other than George Levesque. •Shaping theFuture ofTechnologyCornell Watts1996 Graduate of McMurry University with a Degreein Computer Informations SystemsBefore enrolling at McMurry in the fall of 1992, Cornell“Lamont” Watts never traveled too far from his hometownof Alvin, Texas. He shared that “before being recruitedby McMurry to play football, I didn’t even know where18 McMurry University

McMURRY’S RISING STARS“The faculty cares about you and they want to give you everyopportunity to be successful.”Abilene was. But I am glad I went; it exposed me tomany opportunities and opened many doors.”Currently working as a Senior ImplementationProject Manager for Dell, Cornell is responsible forall service implementations for the Austin-basedcompany. As a business major specializing in computerinformation systems, Cornell has effectively utilizedhis degree. After graduating from McMurry in 1996,Cornell received his master’s of business administrationat Texas Southern University. From there, he went towork for several companies specializing in computerinformation systems, including a stint working for thefederal government managing the information systemsfor the Defense Logistics Agency in Washington D.C.He joined Dell in 2006 and moved back to Houston inSeptember 2007 to manage various implementationprojects for Dell across the country.When asked what characteristics of his jobhe likes the most, he responds, “I enjoy working withtechnology and providing that technological expertiseto people and companies who can benefit from ourservices.”Cornell attributes his success in the businessworld to his academic experience at McMurry. Hecredits faculty and staff members like McMurry’s VicePresident for Academic Affairs, Beverly Lenoir: “Dr.Lenoir had a very caring demeanor about her; she wasalways concerned for my well-being and I knew shecared about me as a person.” Cornell is appreciative ofthe quality of education he received at McMurry. Herecalls visiting with a friend who went to Harvard. “Idiscovered that I was exposed to all the educationalopportunities that she was, and the education I receivedwas comparable to hers.”While excelling in the classroom, Cornell alsobecame extremely involved with the extracurricularactivities at McMurry. In addition to playing footballall four years he was at McMurry, Cornell sang inChanters and was a member of KIVA men’s socialclub. His leadership abilities also became evident as heserved in Indian Insight and in the McMurry StudentGovernment.In addition to receiving an outstandingeducation, Cornell points out what makes McMurryunique: “The faculty cares enough about you that theywant to see you succeed and give you every opportunityto be successful.” He fondly remembers the influenceof former McMurry Athletic Trainer, the late William“Doc” Hadley. “Doc was the wisdom of McMurry,” hesays. “He was able to transcend many different barriersand was able to relate to all of the students he came incontact with.” Not only was Cornell influenced by Doc’swords of wisdom, he was influenced by his actions. Heshares, “He always told me to do the right thing, butmore importantly, he taught me that by his example.”“Doing the right thing” is an attribute thatCornell demonstrates daily as he gives back to hiscommunity. In addition to his success in the businessworld, Cornell manages his own real estate developmentbusiness. “Growing up, my family did not own their ownhome, so I want to try to give people that opportunity.”Cornell’s ventures include developing neighborhoodsthroughout the Greater Houston area that provide whatCornell describes as “affordable luxury.” He sums up hispersonal mission statement by concluding, “In all I do,I try to be about helping people.” McMurry is proud ofour many graduates like Cornell Watts who prove that“good guys can finish first.” •M cMurry University 19

ATHLETICSFor the full athletics update, please visit us on the web athttp://athletics.mcm.edu.UPDATEMcMurry’s Most Successful Year in its NCAA HistoryThe 2007-08 athletic year proved to be the most successfulin McMurry’s NCAA history as the school finished 41stin the United States Sports Academy Directors’ Cupstandings.The No. 41 ranking is not only the highest inMcMurry history; it is also the highest for any AmericanSouthwest Conference school in the 2007-08 athletic year.Only Trinity, who finished 13th overall, was a higherrankedDivision III Texas school.The Directors’ Cup, in its 13th year, honors all sportschampions in the NCAA Divisions I, II and III and theNational Association of Intercollegiate Athletics. Points areawarded for postseason appearances (beyond conferencetournaments), with more points awarded the further aschool advances.The Spring in ReviewWomen’s Golf The 2008 spring season was a great onefor the McMurry women’s golf team as McMurry won itsfirst ever American Southwest Conference Championshipin April, and then finished 15th at the NCAA Division IIIGolf Championships in Waverly, Iowa, in May. This wasMcMurry’s third appearance in the national tournamentas a team since the school joined the NCAA in 1996. TheNational Golf Coaches Association honored McMurryhead coach Russ Evans as West Region Coach of the Year.Barbara John received all-West Region honors.Men’s Golf The McMurry men’s golf team finishedfifth at the American Southwest Conference GolfChampionship in April, with Aaron Garza beinghonored as a second-team all-conferenceselection by virtue of his 10th placefinish at the conference championship.Garza also won the individual portion ofthe West Region Invitational in early Aprilas he led McMurry to a fifth place showingas a team. For his stellar play at the WestRegion Invitational, Garza was named theASC Golfer of the Week.Tennis The McMurry tennis program hadperhaps its most successful season in the springof 2008 as the season ended with two women, fourmen and head coach Mark Hathorn earning awardsfrom the American Southwest Conference. The men’steam made its first-ever postseason appearance in theASC Championships, while the women made their secondconsecutive playoff appearance.On the men’s side, head coach Mark Hathornwas named ASC West Division Coach of the Year afterleading the McMurry men to a 6-1 record in league playand a 12-7 overall record. Bryan Rainwater and WillDavis were each named to the first team all-ASC WestDivision and Daniel Olivares was a second team selection.Also, freshman Tony Williams was named the ASC WestDivision Freshman of the Year.On the women’s side, Kristin Bray was a first teamall-conference selection and Amy Torti was a second teamselection.Baseball In Lee Driggers’ last season withMcMurry, the McMurry baseball team won itsfourth American Southwest ConferenceBaseball Championship in program historyand hosted the Division III West RegionBaseball Championship, where its seasonended. Senior third baseman Derek Davidended his collegiate career with a bang as hehit an American Southwest Conference record26 home runs. David also posted schooland conference records with 79 runs, 86hits, 73 RBI and 175 total bases. For hisamazing year, David won three DivisionIII Player of the Year awards (National20 McMurry University Aaron Garza

For the full athletics update, please visit us on the web athttp://athletics.mcm.edu.ATHLETICSUPDATECollegiate Baseball Writers Association, AmericanBaseball Coaches Association and D3Baseball.com).Brent Voorhes also received national recognition as hewas selected as a second team academic all-American byESPN The Magazine and the College Sports InformationDirectors of America. Driggers was selected as ASC WestDivision tri-coach of the year, and nine players were ASCall-conference selections, including four on the first team.After Driggers resigned in August, longtime McMurryassistant coach, John Byington, was announced as hissuccessor.2008 National Outdoor Men’s Track and Field ChampionsTrack The McMurry men’s track and field team wonthe school’s first-ever team national championship inOshkosh, Wisconsin, in May; meanwhile, the women alsohad a solid showing at the national meet as they finishedin sixth place. Before the national meet, the men wontheir 10th-straight ASC title and the women won theirthird-straight and ninth in the past 10 years.Fall PreviewsFootball Now in his second year at the helm of theMcMurry football team, head coach Donny Gray and hisstaff hit the recruiting trail hard in the offseason as theybrought in over 150 players to training camp in August.Defense might be the key for McMurry as eight of 11defensive starters return, including four all-conferenceselections in free safety: Trey Brown and linebackersJoe Alexander, Gene Vogelman and Andrew Wallace.McMurry opened its season September 6th againstperennial Division III power, Trinity University.Volleyball A familiar face has returned to coach theMcMurry volleyball team as Cammie Petree is once againleading the McMurry volleyball program. Petree, alreadythe winningest coach in program history with 191 wins,returns to the program after a two-year hiatus and takesover a team that returns many key cogs from last year’ssquad that went 19-10 and advanced to the semi-finalround of the ASC postseason tournament. The stellarset of juniors return this year, including middle blockerTerah Brown, who was last season’s ASC West DivisionCo-Player of the Year, as well as ASC West DivisionNewcomer of the Year; outside hitter Danielle Kelton,who was a second team all-ASC West Division selectionlast year; and setter Shannon Higgins, who was an all-ASC West Division honorable mention last year.Soccer Both the McMurry men’s and women’s teamsare looking forward to hitting the field for the 2008campaign. On the men’s side, second-year coach TimGrove added 12 new players to his squad and also returnsall-conference performers Humberto Sepulveda, NathanPerschke and Chris Crawford. On the women’s side,second-year McMurry coach Stan Levrets had his firsttrue offseason in which he was able to add 11 new playersto his team. He plans on fielding 16 women this year, asopposed to just 12 players that he had on last year’s squad.Cross Country The McMurry cross country teams,under the direction of David Chandler, are prepping foranother solid showing in 2008. Last year, both teamsfinished second at the American Southwest ConferenceChampionships before the men finished 10th and thewomen finished 14th at the regional meet in NewportNews, Virginia. The men’s team returns Ken Wheelerand Brad Mullens, who last year became the first runnersin school history to earn all-region honors in their firsttwo seasons. The women have a young but very talentedsquad that should contend for the conference title.McMurry will host the Texas Division III ChampionshipsSeptember 27 at the Abilene State Park in Buffalo Gap. •M cMurry University 21

ATHLETICSFor the full athletics update, please visit us on the web athttp://athletics.mcm.edu.UPDATERowland Selected as 2008 Inductee intoCollege Football Hall of FameMcMurry’s all-time leading rusher, Brad Rowland, wasrecently inducted into the 2008 College Football Hall ofFame. Archie Manning, the chairman of The NationalFootball Foundation & College Hall of Fame announcedthe Divisional Hall of FameClass, which considers playersand coaches from the NCAAFootball ChampionshipSubdivision (formerly I-AA),Division II, III and the NAIA forinduction.Rowland played hisfinal season for McMurry in1950; however, his 4,347 rushingyards still stands as McMurry’scareer record 58 years later. TheHamlin native led the TexasConference in rushing all fourseasons and helped McMurryto three consecutive conferencetitles from 1947 to 1949.He still holds the singleseasonrushing record for a10-game season at McMurryafter running for 1,279 yards hisjunior year. That same seasonhe scored 18 touchdowns and his 108 points is a singleseasonschool record. He also holds the career record forcareer points with 258 equaling 43 touchdowns in fourseasons.Rowland was all-conference all four seasonsand was recognized for his academic success when hewas named Who’s Who Among American College andUniversity Students. He went on to a one-year career withthe Chicago Bears in the National Football League beforeserving two years in the U.S. Army. He later worked inagribusiness for 40 years. He was recognized as the firstsmall-college player to start in the East-West Shrine Gamefollowing his senior season.Roland was one of twentyinductees in this year’s class.Joining him were such well-knownfootball legends as Doug Flutie(quaterback, Boston College,1981-84 and former HeismanTrophy winner), Joe Paterno (headcoach, Penn State, 1966-present)and Ahmad Rashad (runningback, Oregan, 1969-71).This year’s class wasinducted into the CollegeFootball Hall of Fame during theEnshrinement Festival, July 18-19,in South Bend, Indiana.“The NFF prides itself onhonoring the very best in collegefootball history,” said Manning.“This year’s divisional class is noexception, and it’s our duty toreward them for their outstandingaccomplishments on the gridiron,earning them a spot among the greatest to ever play orcoach our sport.”The criteria for induction includes being nameda first team all-American, being 10 years removed fromintercollegiate football, and community contributionsamong other qualities.Rowland was a six-time all-America selectionwhile at McMurry and was a charter member of theMcMurry Athletics Hall of Honor in 1984. •22 McMurry University

Join the other McMurry alumni soon atMcMurry Nation! nation.mcm.eduFRIENDS& FAMILYDear Alumni and Friends,Since returning to McMurry three years ago, it has beenmy goal in the Office of Alumni Relations to connect,engage and involve all McMurry alumni with ourinstitution. In many ways we have madestrides in reaching that goal—participationat Homecoming and other alumni gatheringshas increased. A growing sense of prideamong our alumni is demonstrated byan increase in the percentage of alumnicontributing to McMurry University. Now Iam excited to announce a new initiative that Ibelieve will be a transforming benefit to all ofour alumni…McMurry Nation.McMurry Nation is our new alumnionline community and website that willallow you to stay connected with McMurryand each other. This new site will connect,engage and involve you with McMurry andwith fellow alumni and friends of the University. McMurryNation will be the place on the web for all alumni to gatherto receive current news from the University, register forupcoming events and connect with other alumni. Thereare many exciting aspects of McMurry Nation that willbenefit you.McMurry Nation will provide us a way to effectivelyand consistently provide you, our alumni, with updatednews from the University. This new community will giveus the capability of easily communicating with you on aconsistent basis through e-newsletters. In addition, youwill be able to select the news you would like to receivefrom the department(s) of the University you are mostinterested in. For example, if you were a music major andwere in band, you can choose to always receive updatesand news about the band program.McMurry Nation will also inform you of upcomingUniversity events and alumni gatherings that youwill be able to register for online. This will provide anadded benefit of convenience and ease in engaging withMcMurry. In addition, pictures and recapsof those events will be posted on our site forall alumni to view and enjoy.What if you had the ability to connectwith other McMurry alumni throughoutthe country? There is now a way…McMurryNation. The most exciting aspect ofMcMurry Nation is the ability it will giveyou to connect and network with otherMcMurry alumni. You will be able to searchfor other members of the community andconnect with those classmates you have notcommunicated with in years. In addition,through the “Profile” section of McMurryNation you will be able to post information,including pictures, that will keep others informed aboutyou. McMurry Nation will offer you many of the samebenefits that other social networking sites offer, and if youcurrently use sites like Facebook, you will easily be able tointeract with such sites.It is now time to show your pride in McMurry byjoining McMurry Nation. When we launch McMurryNation, you will receive your Constituent ID number fromthe Office of Alumni Relations. Then just log on tonation.mcm.edu and you will be asked to create your ownuser name and password. It is that easy to become a part ofsomething special and unique…McMurry Nation. I lookforward to your connection, engagement and involvementwith this exciting new initiative.McMurry University 23

FRIENDS& FAMILYDr. John Russell presents graduating senior MarieSward with the Harry Soloday Award that recognizesthe Outstanding Graduating Senior. The Class of 2008 processesthrough the line of facultyand staff on their way totheir Spring CommencementCeremony on May 10, 2008.Dr. Paul Fabrizio presentsJason Owens the W. AnthonyHunt Award that recognizesthe Outstanding MaleGraduate. Dr. Paul Fabrizio presents Tarra Richardson theGinny Carlson Award for Outstanding FemaleGraduate. Dean Vanessa Roberts is pictured with Sheryl Maxwell who receivedthe Don Allen Memorial Award that recognizes the Outstanding Non-Traditional Graduate. 24 McMurry UniversityDr. Russell visits with Shirley LeBow ’57 and her husband Reece,along with Bud Reynolds ’57 and his wife Marilyn at the Alumniand Friends Gathering in Albuquerque.

FRIENDS& FAMILYJane Harvey ’61 visits with Barbara Miers ’59 at the AnnualIris Tea that was held on April 15, 2008. Dr. Doris Miller,Professor of Englishat McMurry ispictured with Dr.Cyril Stone ’46 at theAlumni Receptionat the New Mexico/Northwest TexasAnnual Conference.Mrs. Marcia Solomon ’63 visits with other guestsat the Iris Tea. Dr. and Mrs. Russell visit with a guest at the Alumni Reception at the jointAnnual Conference of the Northwest Texas and New Mexico Conference ofthe United Methodist Church. Marie Sward ’08 shares abouther experience at McMurry atthe New Mexico/NorthwestTexas Annual Conference. Kelley Stowers ’06 and her fiancé RhettLawrence are pictured with Melissa BemisMadera ’04 and her husband David at theAlumni and Friends Gathering in Albuquerqueon June 6, 2008. McMurry University 25

FRIENDS& FAMILYJosh Lee ’04, Albert Carrizales ’07, and Joe Fichera ’00throw out the ceremonial first pitch during the “Weekendof Champions” that honored the conference championbaseball teams of 1998, 2001 and 2004. Heidi Henderson ’00 is pictured with her infant son Roland atthe Alumni gathering in Albuquerque. Representatives ofall three baseballconferencechampionshipteams arepictured with thecoaching staff atthe “Weekend ofChampions” inMarch. Members of the 1998 ASC Championship Baseballteam were one of three teams recognized duringthe “Weekend of Champions” that was heldMarch 28-29, 2008. 26 McMurry UniversityA Freshman’s Diary - McMurry College 1935-36In the depth of the Great Depression in 1935, Robert Hailey came to McMurry College fromhis hometown of Big Spring, Texas, to begin his journey in higher education.He spent his freshman year at McMurry and recorded it in his personal memoirs. He laterfinished his education at the U.S. Naval Academy and went on to a distinguishedcareer as an officer in the U.S. Navy and after retirement as a teacher in the publicschools.Capt. Hailey’s observations about professors, friends and jobs during his firstyear at McMurry make fascinating reading. We invite you to enjoy “A Freshman’sDiary – McMurry College 1935-36” from Capt. Hailey’s book A Personal History.http://www.mcm.edu/HaileyJournal.pdfIf you'd like us to mail you a copy, contact Gary Ellison at (325) 793-4610.

Dr. John Garrison ’69 was recently appointed President ofSan Marcos Baptist Academy. He has been Associate VicePresident and Dean of Students at Texas State University.Garrison holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from McMurryUniversity, a Master of Education degree from theUniversity of North Texas and a Ph.D. from the Universityof Texas at Austin. John and Carol Garrison have twogrown children: Ryan of San Marcos and Mindy, whoresides in College Station.1970Dr. Sherry Bevins Darrell ’70, a Professor of English andDirector of Humanities, has been named DistinguishedProfessor, the highest faculty honor at the University ofSouthern Indiana. She has taught there since 1975 and willretire in the spring of 2009.Mary Jane Killebrew Tatum ’70 and her husband Jackrecently celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary. Afterteaching for the Abilene and Trent Independent SchoolDistricts, Mary Jane retired from the Blanco ISD in 2004.Currently she maintains part-interest in an antique store inthe Texas Hill Country and volunteers for the WimberleyUnited Methodist Church and VFW Post 6441.1975Phoebe Duggan Skelly ’75 reports that she moved toCentral Texas in August of 2007 where she is employed bythe Belton ISD.FRIENDS& FAMILYDebra Tower Stevens ’75 reports that after managingmedical offices for 25 years, she thought that she wouldsimplify her life by becoming a computer lab aide withthe Abilene ISD Alternative High School. She has oneson, Bryan, who is an officer with the Abilene PoliceDepartment, and two grandchildren, Josie and Colten. Sheand her husband have been married for 31 years.1978Steve Harter ’78 is beginning his 12th year as Ministerof Music and Arts at First United Methodist Church inColorado Springs, Colorado. His youth choir was featuredon the website for the Oklahoma City Memorial thissummer. Next summer, members of his adult choir will besinging at the 25th anniversary of the International ChurchMusic Festival in Rome, Italy.1984Gary Wells ’84 is President ofHappy State Bank and was recentlyappointed Vice President of the 600-member Leadership Division of theIndependent Bankers Association ofTexas (IBAT) for 2008-2009. 1986Martha Cogburn Strickland Glassy ’86 has been a 4thand 5th grade teacher in Bossier City, Louisiana, for nineyears. She has 2 adorable grandchildren living in the AustinWe Need You!The Alumni Association Board ofDirectors is embarking on exciting newinitiatives and is looking for more alumniinput to better serve all alumni. If you areinterested in serving on the alumni boardor assisting in special projects, we’d love tohear from you!Diversity in class years, geography,creative ideas and interests is mostwelcome. Please contact Greeley MyersMat cMurry (325) 793-4603 University or29myers.greeley@mcm.edu.

FRIENDS& FAMILYarea. One son, Nathan, graduated from high school thisyear, and James will be a junior in the upcoming schoolyear. Her husband, Dave ex ’90, works in the tech supportarea of FryMaster, who makes those great fryers forMcDonald's and other fast food restaurants.1987Bradley DeHaven ’87 was recently appointed SeniorPastor of Canyon Lake United Methodist Church.Nita Keesee ’87 currently serves as the NorthwestRegional Director of the TCTM. She is employed asInstructional Specialist at Craig Middle School and MathConsultant for Abilene Independent School District.1989Chris Cutler ’89 received a master’s of businessadministration (M.B.A.) degree in December 2007, fromSt. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas. His concentrationwas in Information Technology. Chris was recognizedfor being a member of the Delta Mu Delta (NationalHonor Society in Business Administration), having a 4.0GPA, and was awarded the 2007 Presidential Fellowship.Chris is married to Kris Rich Cutler ’89, also a McMurryalumna. Chris and Kris celebrated their 20th weddinganniversary this year and are the proud parents of Cecily,age 18, and Chase, age 9. Cecily plans to attend McMurryin fall 2008.Jeff Matsler ’89 is proud to report that he is currentlyserving as an Army Chaplain for over 1000 soldiersin Afghanistan. Please keep him in your prayers andthoughts.1992Shelly Nel Slyker Odom ’92 and her husband KyleOdom welcomed the early arrival of their twin girls onSeptember 13, 2007. Caroline and Olivia Odom were inthe hospital for about four months but are home now andare doing very well.Sarah Clayton Perera ’92 is proud to report that shehas started to work on her Ph.D., which will enable herto advance within her career field. She enjoys teachingSpanish and currently teaches both university andelementary school summer camps at North Carolina A&TState University.1993Fred Van Soelen '93 of Clovis, New Mexico, was reelectedin March to a second term on the Clovis CityCommission.Anthony Williams ’93, City Council Member for theCity of Abilene, was recently elected to serve on the 2007-2008 Texas Municipal League (TML) Board of Directors.Representatives of Region 6, which covers the Hub ofTexas—Abilene area, voted for Councilman Williams toserve as their TML Regional Director to fill an unexpiredterm. He is scheduled to serve through late October. Morethan 1,000 cities across the state are TML members. Sinceits formation in 1913, the League’s mission remains thesame: to advance and sustain the interests of the cities ofTexas.1995Harper Stewart ’95 is completing his 13th year ineducation and is currently the junior high principal inLlano ISD. His wife, Ashley Blanchard Stewart ’93,is completing her 15th year in education, serving asAssistant Superintendent with San Saba ISD. They havetwo daughters: Madilyn Grace (5) and Emma Faith (2).Craig Watson ’95 and his wifeRandi of San Antonio, Texas,welcome their baby daughterHayes Lauren Watson, whowas born June 27, 2008. Hayesweighed 6 lbs, 9 oz and was19 in long. Craig and Randi are very excited and feel veryblessed. 30 McMurry University

MindyBreeden King’95 and herhusband, Justin,welcomed babyConnor Archerto their familyon August 21,2008. Heidi Elmore ’95 had another baby girl. Laney JaneElmore was born September 15, 2006. She and Brent nowhave two kids, Peyton, age 5, and Laney, age 17 months.1996Steven ’96 and Shana Norman Bristow ’92 live inCoppell, Texas, with their two sons, Carter, age 3, andPeyton, age 2. Steven is Director of Legislative Affairs atParkland Health & Hospital System. Shana is a SeniorVice President with Fleishman-Hillard InternationalCommunications, a public relations firm.1997Jennifer Stringer ’97and her husband, Michael,proudly announce the birthof their son Briley Austin.Briley was born April 24,2008, weighing 5 lbs, 6oz and was 18 1/2 in long. Big sister, Brittany, will be asophomore at Eula High School in the fall of 2008. Amanda RobertsBreeden ’97 andher husband, Jamesex ’98, welcomeda baby girl, RileyNicole, on February7, 2008. They live inAnna, Texas, whereJames works at DFWAirport and Amanda teaches Spanish at Lovejoy ISD. FRIENDS& FAMILY1998Theresa Burgess Dollinger ’98 and her husband arehappy to have another addition to their family. CooperMichael was born on December 3, 2007 weighing 3 lbs.They report that he is doing well and loves his big sisterHannah, age 3.Ryan King ’98 and his wife Jenifer Brown King ’00have a 2 1/2 year old girl named Carly who welcomedbaby brother, Preston, on November 8, 2007.Martha Watson Stone ’98 and her husband Colby ’97are excited to announce the birth of their daughter, AveryAnne Stone, on February 7, 2008. Xander is a proud bigbrother who turned 2 on February 11.1999Amber Justus Redman ’99 and her husband, Chris, areproud to announce that they are expecting twins in thefall of 2008.2000Joseph Fichera ’00 and his wife Corley SegoviaFichera ’98 live in Pearland, Texas and have a 2 yearold daughter, Audrey. Joseph works as a CPA/TaxConsultant.Summer Holbrook ’00 recently attended the SummerOlympics in Beijing, China. She is pictured here with herhusband, Wes Wadle, and her father, Gregg Holbrook, atthe Russia vs. Serbia men’s volleyball game. McMurry University 31

FRIENDS& FAMILY2001Mark Sprague ’01 and his wife Lorie ’01 announce thebirth of their beautiful baby girl, Amelia Elise, born onFebruary 8, 2008. Victoria, age 4, is excited to have a sister.2002Lewis White ’02 resides in Dallas, Texas. He and fellowMcMurry alumnus, Olyn Poole ’02, have recentlyestablished the Law Firm of White and Poole.2003Jennifer Bahena ’03 is pleased to announce her marriageto Robert Meador ’04 on January 12, 2008, in Galveston,Texas.Maci McIlhany ’03was married to JosephShannon in a ceremonyat Saint John's UnitedMethodist Church inAustin on June 7, 2008.After their honeymoonin Playa del Carmen,Mexico, and Paris, France,the couple is living inAustin where Maci is a2nd grade teacher andJoseph is an electricalengineer. Maci is the daughter of Bill '79 and DanaMcIlhany '78. 2004Holly Baker Bailey ’04 andher husband, Jake, welcomethe arrival of their daughter,Katelynn Grace, on December22, 2007. Jake is deployed toAfghanistan as a Captain withthe 101st Airborne Division.Heather Gates ’04 reports she is working as the Directorof Youth Ministries at League City UMC.2005Carrie Gregory ’05 completed her Masters in Marriageand Family Therapy in August 2007. She will be gettingmarried to Justin Clemens on December 13, 2008.Nichole (Stanley) Hoover’05 and Dee Hoover ’06 weremarried September 8, 2007in Abilene. They live in Tulia,Texas, where Dee is a TexasState Trooper. Nichole worksfor an optometrist group inCanyon. Jennifer Vodak Julian ’05graduated from Hardin-Simmons in December 2007with a master's degree inenvironmental management.2006Catherine Watjen Harner ’06 is enrolled in graduateschool at the University of Idaho.Crystal Kline ’06 lives in Washington D.C. and works forthe company that photographs live shows for Disney andRingling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus as a PhotoManager for Field Entertainment.Gene Skaggs ’06 was recently appointed Manager forTechnology Support Services with Abilene IndependentSchool District.2007Francis Arias ’07 recently moved to Washington D.C.,where she is employed by George Washington School of32 McMurry University

FRIENDS& FAMILYLaw. In her new position, she provides administrativesupport to seven faculty members.Matthew Crisman ’07 married Jill Montgomery on June14, 2008. Matt is now employed in the Admission Officeat McMurry.Edward De Clements ’07 is employed by Victoria ISD,Stroman campus, as a 9th grade social studies teacher.Meredith Jacobsen '07 was honored at the Judson ISDDistinguished Employee Ceremony in February. She wasrecognized as Distinguished First Year Teacher for MaryLou Hartman Elementary in San Antonio, where sheteaches 3rd grade.After graduating in December of 2007, ShannonSpicknall ’07 was hired full-time as a Radio Announcerand Production Manager at KGNZ Radio in Abilene.KGNZ is also broadcast into four other cities: SanAngelo, Snyder, Graham and Lubbock.2008Brittney Renee Clark ’08 and Chad Randall Keeseewere married July 12, 2008, at the Whitney Theater inAlbany, Texas, and they now reside in Abilene, Texas.Tanya Davis ’08 is currently working for theDepartment of the Air Force at Vandenberg Air ForceBase, California. She writes and edits curriculum forsatellite and radar system space control.Ms. Kelly Poorman ’08 and Matt Proctor ’07 weremarried on June 14, 2008. She will attend Hardin-Simmons in the fall to begin graduate school for herMBA. Matt is employed by Merrill Lynch as a financialadvisor. •Stay Connected!Soon you can submit your class notes, connect withother alumni, register for upcoming events andmuch more at McMurry’snew online alumnicommunity:nation.mcm.eduMcMurry Ex Wins Gold in Paralympics in BeijingA little over a year ago, Jim Bob Bizzell had never heard of theParalympic Games. Today he holds a gold and two silver medals.He won the silver medal in the 200 and 400 meter races and agold in the 4 X 100 meter relay. His silver medal in the men’s200m final (T44) was a new personal best in the event - 22.62. Itwas a moment he’ll never forget.“I lost my leg a year and five months ago in a motorcycleaccident, so it’s unbelievable that I’m here competing,” said anelated Bizzell.No stranger to the track, Bizzell was an all-American atMcMurry University until he lost his leg below the knee.M cMurry University 33

FRIENDSWE’LL MISSDr. Steven Arthur of Abilene, Texas, died January 22, 2008.Mrs. Geraldine Banks ’38 of Stamford, Texas, died March 22, 2008.Mr. Paul H. Barnes of Albuquerque, New Mexico and a former member ofthe McMurry Board of Trustees died February 28, 2008.Dr. Charles R. Blanton ’66 of Abilene, Texas, died August 7, 2008.Mrs. Juanita Brownd ex ’46 of Hereford, Texas, died March 24, 2008.Mr. V.E. Bryant ’47 of Abilene, Texas, died April 22, 2008.Mr. John L. Carpenter ’38 of Albuquerque, New Mexico died March 22,2008.Mrs. Sue H. Cole ’50 of Anchorage, Alaska died May 17, 2008.Mr. Bobby W. Comer of Lubbock, Texas, died July 4, 2008.Mr. Corwin C. Connell ’50 of Edinburg, Texas, died February 27, 2008.Ms. Ruth Cutting died January 17, 2008.Ms. Willena Dupree of Amarillo, Texas, died January 27, 2008.Mrs. Helen Joy Egger ’73 of Abilene, Texas, died August 4, 2008.Mr. George Ellis ’60 of Johnson City, Texas, died June 3, 2008.Mr. Edd E. Fishel of Brownwood, Texas, died January 30, 2008.Mr. Donald Ross Freeman, Sr. ’61 of Lubbock, Texas, died April 15, 2008.Mrs. Wanda June Freeman ’61 of Lubbock, Texas, died June 2, 2008Mr. Clifton Gage of Sweetwater, Texas, died April 29, 2008.Mrs. Clara Mae Gesin ’38 of Duncanville, Texas, died April 21, 2008.Mrs. Mary A. Getts of Abilene, Texas, died March 8, 2008.Mrs. Stella Mae Henshaw of Bellevue, Washington died April 21, 2008.Mrs. Frances Herchenhahan died March 20, 2008.Mrs. Burnice Ramsey Hope ’33 of El Paso, Texas, died April 4, 2008.Ms. Molly Jean Huffman of Lockney, Texas, died February 1, 2008.Mr. Charles Hutchinson of Abilene, Texas, died February 20, 2008.ObituariesDr. Mike El-AttracheDr. Mohammed “Mike” El-Attrache, 75, former McMurryProfessor, passed away on May 17, 2008.Mike was born in Jebel Druze, Syria. Upon graduatingfrom Brumann High School in Lebanon, he came to theUnited States in 1952 to further his education at TexasChristian University where he obtained both a bachelor’sMrs. Marguerite Kaye Johnson ’65 died February 9, 2008.Mrs. Suzanne Jones ’52 of Abilene, Texas, died April 8, 2008.Ms. Catherine M. Lack of Dallas, Texas, died July 15, 2008.Mr. Erasmo Martinez, Sr. ’55 of Abilene, Texas, died April 8, 2008.Mr. Billie B. Mathis ’47of Woodlands, Texas, died April 20, 2008.Rev. Melvin Roy Mathis ’46 of Midland, Texas, died March 10, 2008.Mr. Alton O. McCleskey ’47 of San Antonio, Texas, died March 27, 2008.Ms. Linda Merrick of Abilene, Texas, died April 25, 2008.Mrs. Norma Miklos died April 1, 2008.Rev. James W. Miller ’55 of Stephenville, Texas, died April 1, 2008.Mrs. Carole J. Mills ’66 of Monument, Colorado died January 19, 2008.Mr. Milton Douglas Monzingo ’60 of Pflugerville, Texas, died May 17,2008.Rev. James P. Patterson ’50 of Abilene, Texas, died May 16, 2008.Mrs. Mary Josephine Poteet ’34 of Lubbock, Texas, died August 2, 2008.Mr. Otis Ratliff ’55 of Hideaway, Texas, died February 1, 2008.Mr. Marvin G. Rider died March 26, 2008.Mr. Cecil Ray Robinson ’66 of Abilene, Texas, died March 9, 2008.Mr. Russell Lynn Robinson ’92 of Putnam, Texas, died July 10, 2008.Mr. John Scott of Abilene, Texas, died January 29, 2008.Mr. Fred Shelton ’54 of Marble Falls, Texas, died April 8, 2008.Mrs. Elinor Sherman of Abilene, Texas, died August 14, 2008.Mrs. Billie Nadine Smith ’49 of Abilene, Texas, died April 12, 2008.Mr. Robert Doyle Thompson of Abilene, Texas, died August 19, 2008.Dr. Hollis Burl Waldon ’55 of Ripon, California died March 4, 2008.Mr. Kenneth W. Weaver ’53 of Pampa, Texas, died August 2, 2008.Mrs. Ruby Elizabeth Williams died August 7, 2008.and master’s degree. He met and married his wife, ShirleyHeinemeyer, in 1957. He later completed his academiceducation with a Ph.D. from the University of Oklahoma.Dr. El-Attrache moved to Abilene in 1965 and beganhis tenure at McMurry University. For nearly a quartercentury as a political science professor, he developedand chaired the Department of Political Science and34 McMurry University

FRIENDSWE’LL MISSwas instrumental in creating the Pre-Law Program,Paralegal Studies and the West Texas Model UnitedNations (WTMUN) Program. In addition, Dr. El-Attrache touched many lives through the sponsorshipand advisement of over 40 international students for thepursuance of a higher education at McMurry and otheruniversities.Academically, Dr. El-Attrache was an honorarymember of the National Historical Society (Phi AlphaTheta), the American Political Science Association (PiSigma Alpha) and the Romance Languages Association(Phi Sigma Iota). He spent the majority of his academiccareer focusing on Middle Eastern affairs, and hechaired and led many panel discussions on the volatilesubject. This information and his expertise was soughtby numerous circulations and resulted in authorship andquotes in several published articles.Mike will be greatly missed by multitudes of relativesand his immediate family. He is survived by his wife,Shirley, his eldest son, David, and wife, Lisa, his youngestson, John, and wife, Stacie, and grandchildren Morgan,Parker and Stone.His loving son, Mark, preceded him in death.Georgia Kimbrell ’67Georgia Kimbrell ’67, wife of McMurry alumnus andlongtime men’s basketball coach Hershel Kimbrell ’50,passed away on August 11, 2008.Georgia was born October 23, 1927, in Slaton, Texas,and soon moved to Abilene with her family in 1929. Shespent her childhood here in Abilene and attended thepublic school system, graduating from Abilene HighSchool in 1945. While Georgia was at Abilene High,she was a cheerleader, a member of the National HonorSociety and was elected Miss Liberty during WorldWar II. It was at Abilene High School that Georgia metHershel Kimbrell, whom she later married on May21, 1948, in Abilene. She attended Hardin-SimmonsUniversity and later graduated as a McMurry CollegeIndian with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1967.Georgia loved children, and after graduating fromMcMurry, she taught a combined 23 years at Jane LongElementary School and Mann Middle School. Whileteaching children was a challenge, Georgia relishedher roles as a teacher, the mother of two children and a“coach’s wife.” She supported Hershel while he taught andcoached at Garland High School and later was his biggestfan at McMurry College. Georgia considered all of theyoung men Hershel coached over 45 years as adoptedsons.Georgia is survived by her husband of 60 years,Hershel, and two children: her daughter, Kim Whitakerand husband, Keith, of Fairfield, Texas, and herson, Kit, and his wife, Kris, of Abilene. Georgia alsohad two grandchildren, Amanda Williams and herhusband, Dustin, of Big Spring, and Joshua Whitakerof Stephenville, Texas. Georgia also had two greatgrandchildren, Alyssa and Kaylee Williams, who broughther great joy.Grace Virginia Kincade ’69Grace Kincade ’69 passed away August 25, 2007.Grace was born on February 23, 1947, to Grace andWalter Dibble in Valley Stream, New York. She attendedValley Stream schools and earned her bachelor’s degreein education from McMurry College in 1969 and waspresident of Gamma Sigma.In 1976, Grace married Larry Kincade. During their31 years of marriage, they lived in Anaheim and Visalia,California. They recently moved to Mansfield to be neartheir grandchildren.Until her retirement in 2005, Grace was anelementary school teacher for about 20 years.Grace was preceded in death by her parents, Grace andWalter Dibble.She is survived by her husband, Larry Kincade;daughter and son-in-law, Christy and Brad Whitman;son and daughter-in-law, Travis ’02 and Adrianne MazurKincade ’00; son Grant Kincade; grandchildren Loganand Cole Kincade; brother and sister-in-law, RobertMcMurry University 35

FRIENDSWE’LL MISSand Lynne Dibble; and godmother and aunt, EllenMeyers. Grace also leaves behind aunts, uncles, cousins,nephews and close friends who loved and admired her.Dr. Roy Melugin ’59Roy Melugin ’59 passed away April 9, 2008.The Rev. Dr. Roy Melugin was born in Clovis, NewMexico. He was married to his loving wife, Sylvia, for49 years and was the beloved father of two daughtersand grandfather of two grandchildren. He was arenowned biblical scholar of Isaiah and an admiredteacher of countless undergraduate and graduatestudents.A graduate of McMurry University, SMU and Yale(Ph.D.), Roy also studied at the University of Toronto,the University of Heidelberg and Claremont. His finemind, love of writing and genuine interest in teachingmade him a favorite among students and colleaguesat Austin College, where he retired in 1999 and wasnamed a professor emeritus of religion. From the timeof his retirement until his death, he was the researchprofessor of Hebrew Bible at Brite Divinity School.An ordained United Methodist minister, Royworshipped with his wife, Sylvia, at First PresbyterianChurch of Fort Worth. An admired teacher, Roy alsoloved weekly worship and the Beacons. His deep faith,love of his family and support of the church and its staffwill be deeply missed even as we give thanks for his lifeand witness.Dr. Melugin is survived by his wife, Sylvia;daughters, Cynthia Melugin and husband, Ned Walpin,and Annella Schneider; and grandchildren, AlexandraWalpin and Cory Schneider.Sherwood SuterSherwood Eugene Suter, 79, a former art professor atMcMurry, died June 4, 2008.Born in Bluffton, Ohio, on September 22, 1928,Sherwood moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan at the age ofone. He graduated from Western Michigan Universityand received his master’s degree from ColumbiaUniversity in New York. He was a U. S. Army veteran ofthe Korean Conflict.In 1957 he moved to Abilene to teach at what wasthen McMurry College. He retired from McMurryUniversity 38 years later. During retirement, he taughtart classes at Cisco Junior College. Sherwood was oneof the founders of the Abilene Art Museum and amember of the Creative Art Club of Abilene. He was amember of the Abilene Lion’s Club and sponsored theXO fraternity at McMurry for many years. He taughtmany art workshops and took part in numerous artshows, winning many awards for his artwork which isknown throughout Texas and well beyond. Mr. Suteralways remembered each student he taught with greatadmiration.He is survived by his wife, Pattie Suter; daughter,Dawn Suter Sjurset and son-in-law, Gary Sjurset, ofLorton, Virginia; son, Mark Suter and daughter-inlaw,Amy Suter, of College Station, Texas; stepson,Guy Hill of Sitka, Alaska; sister, Margaret Johnson andher husband, Henry Johnson, of Bay City, Michigan;brother, Allan Suter and his wife, Seija Suter, of GreenValley, Arizona; seven grandchildren; six greatgrandchildren;one niece and one nephew.St. Clair P. YatesSt. Clair Peyton Yates, a friend of McMurry Universityand former member of the Board of Trustees, passedaway on August 1, 2008.St. Clair Peyton Yates, known by many as S.P. orSaint by family and close friends, was born in thefamily home in Artesia on September 19, 1914, thethird son of Martin and Mary Emmons Yates. S.P.was reared in Artesia and graduated from ArtesiaHigh School in 1932. He received a B.S. and M.S. inChemical Engineering from the University of Texas atAustin, and attended graduate school at MassachusettsInstitute of Technology from 1937 to 1938, where he36 McMurry University

FRIENDSWE’LL MISSmet his bride-to-be, Estelle.Mr. Yates married Estelle Hefler on March 3, 1940 inBoston, Massachusetts. The couple returned to Artesiawhere S.P. joined his father and brothers in the oilbusiness. Before World War II, S.P. purchased a drillingrig and spent his time drilling for other companies andfor himself. He founded Yates Drilling Company in 1959and served as its president until 1976, at which time heassumed the position of Vice President and Director. InMarch 1960, S.P. and his brothers formed Yates PetroleumCorporation and he served as President from its inceptionuntil January 1988, when he assumed the position ofChairman of the Board and most recently, ChairmanEmeritus. He led the company from a handful ofemployees in 1960 to a firm that today employs hundredsand operates offices in Artesia, Roswell, Lovington,Denver, Rock Springs and Gillette, Wyoming. He and hisbrothers, Martin “Bitsy” and John, led the company to bethe largest independent oil and gas producing companybased in the state of New Mexico.S.P. was a proud member of the IndependentPetroleum Association of America, the IndependentPetroleum Association of New Mexico and the NewMexico Oil and Gas Association, all of which he servedin various capacities. He served on the Board of Directorsof Team Bank of Dallas until its sale to Banc One in the1980s. He was a member of the First United MethodistChurch of Artesia most of his life, and served his churchas its Finance Chairman and on the Board of Stewards.He also served as a member of the Board of Trustees ofMcMurry University.S.P. will forever be remembered for his entrepreneurialspirit, his strong character, his sharp mind, his quick witand his contagious laugh and captivating smile. He waspreceded in death by his parents, Martin and Mary Yates,and his brothers, Harvey Emmons Yates and Martin Yates,III. He is survived by his wife, Estelle, of the family home;two sons, Peyton, and his wife, Linda, and Richard andhis wife, Brenda; one daughter, Mary, and her husband,Edward; one brother, John A., and his wife, Charlotte; andone daughter-in-law, Judy Yates. He is also survived byeight grandchildren, Jennifer Peterson and her husbandDale, Mary Beth Yates, Hanson Yates and his wifeChristine, Claire Lloyd-Owen and her husband Rupert,Peyton Davis and his wife Helen, Kelsy Yates Humphreyand her husband Kiri, Porter Yates, and Courtney Yates;three great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces andnephews. •McMurry University 37

A few events to look forward to at Homecoming 2008:Be sure to join us following Coronation at theWelcome Tent at Tipi Village!Hosted by the McMurry Alumni Association Board of Directors andsponsored by Chick-Fil-A. Come join us for refreshments and games forthe kids prior to the Bonfire.NewEvent!Spirit Painting and Walk to VictoryJoin us in this tradition as we invite the whole campus to the SpiritPainting of the McMurry football team in the Quad. Then help us form avictory line from the library to Wilford Moore Stadium as our players walkthe path to victory!McMurry Cheerleaders ReunionThe alumni cheerleaders will be invited to start the game with the MCMcheerleaders by leading the crowd in the McMurry Beat—formerly theIndian Beat!Family TailgateJoin us for this exciting event for young alumni and familieswith children. Come join us for a tailgate lunch, games and activitiesfor the children.Class Reunion Dinners60th Reunion/J.W. Hunt Society honoring the Class of 194850th Reunion honoring the Class of 195840th Reunion honoring the Class of 1968Decade Reunion honoring the Classes of ’78, ’88, ’98Homecoming Musical & Coronation“Dracula: The Musical?”This delightful spoof of the classic horror tale is an unparalleled rompfrom start to finish. Melodic, rollicking and hilarious, the show willthoroughly entertain and prepare you for Halloween. The characters arefamiliar, but the plot involves some new twists and unexpected laughsas the story unfolds.Office of University RelationsBox 938 McMurry StationAbilene, Texas 79697Non-Profit Org.U.S. PostagePAIDLubbock, TXPermit No. 49