Fall 2012 - Southwest Baptist University

President’s PerspectiveWhen writing the State of the University Address for the fall Board of Trustees meeting, I began to reflect upon whatfactors truly determine the state of the University. Based on my sixteen years as president, I believe there are four keysources of data that must be analyzed to determine the state of the University: enrollment data and trends, financial benchmarks,fundraising ability and accreditation.As an enrollment-driven institution, a good enrollment is vital to the state of the University. This fall semester we have a recordenrollment of 3,864 students. The Bolivar campus undergraduate enrollment grew from 1,571 last fall to 1,607 students this fall.For the third time, we have a record number of freshmen, with 459 freshmen again this year. Graduate school enrollment alsohas had significant growth with 855 graduate students enrolled. The growth in the physical therapy doctoral program and twonew graduate programs (an Ed.D in educational leadership and a master’s of science degree in nursing) are responsible for thisincrease. Enrollment on our three satellite campuses is stable. Dual credit enrollment increased significantly this fall.Several financial benchmarks should be studied to determine the state of the University. Positive annual audits, net assets andbalanced budgets are key indicators of financial health. SBU has been blessed with clean audits for the past several years, and ournet assets have grown to $70,700,000. We have been able to successfully balance our annual operating budgets for six out of thelast seven years.The ability to raise funds is crucial to our University. Recently, we have successfully raised funds for the renovation of MabeeChapel and for the purchase of a new Steinway Grand Piano. We are currently in a campaign to raise $1,500,000 for syntheticturf on the football field, renovation of the track, press box and the Plaster Athletic Center. We also are raising funds for anacademic chair in history honoring United States Senator, former SBU president and alum, Roy Blunt.The fourth measure of university success is accreditation, including overall university accreditation and discipline-specificaccreditation. Accreditation verifies to the public that the University is offering quality programs. The accreditation process alsochallenges the University to develop an environment of continuous improvement. We had four successful accreditation visitslast spring and two accreditation visits scheduled this year. Accreditation is important as we continually strive to offer a rigorousacademic program to adequately prepare our students for servant leadership in a global society.Two additional factors that I believe are just as important to remain a healthy University are people and mission. SBU isblessed with outstanding faculty and staff who are committed to the mission of this University and who are dedicated tohelping students. No institution is any better than its people, and SBU is a great University because we have great people. TheUniversity must be a mission-driven institution that ensures all decisions and actions are congruent with the mission statement.For one hundred and thirty-four years, SBU has been successful in staying true to its mission.In Habakkuk 2:1-3, the prophet states, “I will stand on my guard post and station myself on the rampart; and I will keep watchto see what He will speak to me, and how I may reply when I am reproved. Then the Lord answered me and said, ‘Recordthe vision and inscribe it on tablets, that the one who reads it may run. For the vision is yet for the appointed time; it hastenstoward the goal, and it will not fail.’”Like the prophet Habakkuk, we must be on our guard and listen to what the Lord has to say to us. We must continue to writeour vision where everyone can see it and know that SBU is a Christ-centered, caring academic community preparing studentsto be servant leaders in a global society. Because of our commitment to our mission and because of our people at SBU, I canconfidently say that the state of our University is healthy and strong.C. Pat TaylorPresident

SBUlifeMagazine of Southwest Baptist UniversityVolume 97 Issue 4USPS 507-500SBUlifeMagazine of Southwest Baptist UniversityFall 2012PRESIDENTDr. C. Pat TaylorVICE PRESIDENT FORENROLLMENT MANAGEMENTDr. Stephanie Miller ’80EXECUTIVE EDITORDr. Stephanie Miller ’80ASSISTANT EDITORLindsay Lewis Schindler ’04, M.B.A. ’09DESIGNERRollie Skinner ’06CONTRIBUTING WRITERSKris Collins; Jessica (Oliver) Drews ’09;Aline Lopes ’08, MS ’11; Jeff Weseloh ’09PHOTOGRAPHERSP.S. Dooley; Kellie Harris, Class of 2013;Sesha Shannon-Smith; Rollie Skinner ’06;Mark Stephens; Grace Weseloh ’11;Jeff Weseloh’09ADDRESS CHANGEPOSTMASTER: Send address changes toSBU 1600 University Avenue,Bolivar, MO 65613-2597HOW TO REACH US:Phone: (417) 328-1803Fax: (417) 328-1808Web: www.sbuniv.eduEmail: smiller@sbuniv.eduMail: 1600 University Ave.Bolivar, MO 65613-2597SBUlife (USPS 507-500) is published in February, April,July, and November. It is distributed free for alumni,parents and friends of Southwest Baptist Universityby the Office of Marketing & Communications, 1600University Ave., Bolivar, MO 65613. Periodical postagepaid at Bolivar, Mo., and additional mailing offices.SBUlife highlights the University’s mission: to be a Christcentered,caring academic community preparing studentsto be servant leaders in a global society. SBU does notdiscriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, nationalorigin, gender, age, marital status or disability. Any personhaving inquiries regarding this may contact Ron Maupin(417) 328-1511.FEATURESCross Country Record Setting YearHomecoming RecapDEPARTMENTSSBU NewsSports FocusSports NewsAlumni FocusAlumni RelationsKeeping in Touch8Ed & Theo ClarkUniversity SuccessCenter 10 th Anniversary121821214152022SBUlife 1

sbu newsBY JESSICA DREWS ’09SBU enrollment hitsnew recordWelcome Week 2012 Student ProcessionalEnrollment at Southwest Baptist Universityreached a new record this year,according to President Dr. C. Pat Taylor.During a quarterly President’sBreakfast Friday, Sept. 14, Taylor said apreliminary headcount of 3,812 studentswill exceed the previous record by at least96 students.Undergraduate programsPreliminary undergraduate enrollmentshows a 4.8-percent increase over last year,Taylor said.“This looks wonderful, and it is wonderful,but maybe it’s not quite as wonderfulas it looks,” Taylor said.The increase is due, in part, to agrowing number of high-school studentsenrolling in dual credit classes. Taylor saidthe program has been growing during thelast three or four years and this year has 381students enrolled. This is a 51.8-percentincrease over last year’s enrollment of 251students.“What is happening is that high schoolstudents are realizing this is a great opportunityto get a head start on college,” Taylorsaid. “It is an opportunity for students to getvery inexpensive credit while still in highschool.”Two years ago, SBU had 306 studentsenrolled in the dual credit program. That isthe highest enrollment until this year. Dualenrollment classes through SBU are availableat a variety of high schools in the area,and even places such as Rolla High Schooland at a high school in Anchorage, Alaska.This year, there are 1,607 undergraduatestudents on the Bolivar campus, an2 SBUlife Fall 2012

sbu newsGrad Ed Department Chair, Dr. Jim Truelove Mercy College of Nursing and Health Sciences SBU Physical Therapy Studentincrease of 36 students over last year. Accordingto Taylor, this number is this year’s mostimportant enrollment statistic, beating a recordnumber of students from 2009.“We have blown our record enrollmentout of the water,” Taylor said. “By far, this willbe the largest number of students we’ve everhad.”Freshmen enrollment is 459 students thisyear, meeting the all-time freshmen enrollmentrecords from 2006 and 2009. There area total of 602 new students on campus thisyear, according to Taylor. On-campus housingwelcomed eight more students this year, witha total of 1,003 students calling the Bolivarcampus home.Off-campus programsOff-campus programs recorded a small decreasein students. The Salem campus gainedfive students (from 228 to 233), however. Atthe Springfield campus, enrollment was down29 students, from 1,050 to 1,021. This is due, inpart, to a record number of nursing studentsfailing a pharmacology class, Taylor said.Those students will be able to re-enroll in thespring.“We have the second-largest nursing programin Missouri,” Taylor said. “A few yearsago, St. Louis University had the second largest,but the last three years, we have graduatedmore RNs than SLU. Our partnership withMercy is a wonderful partnership for us and Ithink a wonderful partnership for them as well.”Enrollment at the Mountain View campusis down 13 students, from 154 to 141. This isdue to competition in the area from MissouriState University-West Plains, Mineral AreaCommunity College and Three Rivers CommunityCollege, Taylor said.Graduate programsEnrollment in SBU’s graduate programs is up42 students to 803, Taylor said, although studentscan still enroll so numbers may continueto increase. Total headcount in the businessadministration program is down 17 studentsthis year because SBU is working on a two-yearphaseout of the program.“The MBA program has been a challengefor us since we started it in 2001,” Taylor said.“We’ve never been able to carve out a marketniche. Everybody has an MBA program. Manyof them are online.“We have a policy here at SBU that allgraduate and off-campus programs have to beself-sustaining; they have to pay for themselvesbecause we don’t want any graduate programor off-campus program draining the Bolivarcampus program because that is our primarypurpose.”Taylor said the university began to analyzethe MBA program three years ago and saidthe school is losing money on it.“Right now, indicators tell us it’s a programthat we probably need to let go,” Taylor said.Enrollment continues to grow in theeducation programs, with 52 enrolled for thedoctorate program in educational administration.Taylor said the university expected 32 toenroll.The university received 700 applicationsthis year for 80 spots in the physical therapyprogram. Taylor said accrediting agencies willcap the enrollment at 80 students per year.Also, the school does not have enough facultyand clinical space to admit more students.“We’ll be admitting 80 a year from thispoint on,” Taylor said. “Getting this programhas really been a blessing to this university, andit is a great program.”Total headcountTotal headcount of SBU’s programs is 3,812students and counting, according to Taylor.This exceeds its largest enrollment of 3,716 in2009.Copyright Bolivar Herald-Free Press.Republished with permission.www.sbuniv.edu SBUlife 3

sbu news2012 ConvocationFrom left to right: Provost Bill Brown,Donald Denton, Dwight Haun,President C. Pat TaylorSouthwest Baptist University recentlybegan its official academic year with aformal convocation in Pike Auditorium on theBolivar main campus. The annual convocationaddress was presented by Dr. Dwight Haun ‘81,associate professor of education, and recipientof the 2012 Orien B. Hendrex DistinguishedTeacher Award.The Distinguished Teacher Award is chosenby the current and three previous graduatingclasses and is presented annually to a facultymember for “outstanding teaching ability andpersonal guidance.”Dr. Donald Denton, associate professor oftheology, was recognized for receiving the2012 Parkway Distinguished Professor Award.The Christian College Education Committeeof Parkway Baptist Church in Saint Louisawards this honor annually to faculty membersfrom each of the four Missouri Baptist collegeswho have made outstanding contributions toChristian education.Dr. Dwight Haun2012 Orien B. HendrexDistinguished TeacherDr. Dwight Haun joined the SBU faculty in1998 as assistant professor of teacher education.Currently, Dr. Haun is the director of teachereducation, chair of the department of education,and associate professor of teacher education.He served a term as president of the SBUFaculty Senate, is a double recipient of the OrienB. Hendrex Distinguished Teacher Award for2005 and 2012, a Faculty Life Beautiful Awardrecipient, and he has received the SBU FacultyNewcomer of the Year Award.An alumnus of Southwest Baptist University,Dr. Haun earned his Bachelor of Science inmathematics and physical education in 1981.He earned a Master of Science in secondaryeducation and mathematics from SouthwestMissouri State University and in 1990 adoctorate in educational leadership and policyanalysis from University of Missouri-Columbia.Dr. Haun is a member of the NationalMiddle School Association, Association ofSupervision and Curriculum Development,and the Missouri Association for Colleges ofTeacher Education. In 1995, he was awardedthe Master Teacher Award for the Bolivar R-ISchools.Dr. Haun and his wife, Verna, also a graduateof SBU, reside in Bolivar and have two sons,Kendall, who is married to Leigh Anne, andGrant. The Haun family attends First BaptistChurch in Bolivar.Dr. Donald Denton2012 Parkway DistinguishedProfessorDr. Donald Denton joined the faculty ofSouthwest Baptist University in 2003. Dr.Denton has made significant contributions tohis discipline. His dissertation was publishedby the prestigious T. & T. Clark Publishersand was recently included in the digital LogosLibrary for scholars. He has presented researchpapers to national and international meetingsof biblical and theological scholars. He hascontributed several articles to top-level referredjournals. He also has submitted his researchto a book of essays produced by internationalscholars. In short, Dr. Denton is a recognizedscholar in gospel studies, cited often in majorbooks and journals of biblical scholarship.An invaluable member of The CourtsRedford College of Theology and Ministryfaculty, he was instrumental in developing anew academic major in the Redford College.Recently, he established a new chapter of thenational honor society for theology students,Theta Alpha Kappa.Dr. Denton received his Bachelor of Artsfrom Southeastern Louisiana University, aMaster of Divinity from New Orleans BaptistTheological Seminary, and a Doctor of4 SBUlife Fall 2012

sbu news’12 Parkway Distinguished TeacherDr. Donald DentonCaption’12 Orien B. Hendrix DistinguishedTeacher Dr. Dwight Haun’12 Staff Newcomer ofthe Year David Marsch’12 Faculty Newcomer of the Year Bethany MessersmithPhilosophy from Fuller Theological Seminary,Pasadena, California.Dr. Denton and his wife, Diane, have oneson, Joshua. The Denton family is active at theirchurch, serving their community by participatingin mission trips, service organizations, andministries to women and children. In addition, Dr.Denton leads Bible studies at home and preachesfor churches in southwest Missouri.The faculty and staff Newcomer of the Yearawards also were introduced during the formalconvocation.The 2012 Faculty Newcomerof the Year is BethanyMessersmithMessersmith has a Bachelor of Arts degreein English from Millersville University ofPennsylvania, a Master of Arts degree inJournalism, and Master of Science degree inLibrary Science from Indiana University. Shecurrently serves as an assistant professor of libraryservices on the Bolivar campus.Prior to coming to SBU in June of 2011, shewas a library assistant at Ephrata Public Libraryin Ephrata, Pennsylvania, an office assistantat R.E. Sutton & Associates in Brownsburg,Indiana, and an intern in the University Librariesand Communication Department at IndianaUniversity.Her dean, Mr. Edward Walton, said thefollowing about her: “She has been an inspiringmember of the University Libraries faculty—bringing enthusiasm, energy, and professionalismto every project she undertakes. She has a passionfor information literacy—enabling studentsto be lifelong learners. She has revitalized theUniversity Libraries’ information literacy program.She has worked closely with the UniversitySuccess Center in developing a strongerinformation literacy program to help studentscritically evaluate information and transferinformation literacy skills to other courses.”She has a deep desire to mentor young women.When the request for Small Group Leaders for theCommunity Life and Worship was announced,she immediately responded. In each semestersince, she has mentored a group of students. Sheis an active member of First Evangelical FreeChurch in Springfield where she serves on awomen’s ministry team, a greeter team, and in thenursery.The 2012 Staff Newcomer of theYear is David MarschMarsch graduated from SBU in 1997 witha Bachelor’s of Science degree in secondaryeducation, and received his master’s degree inelementary education from SBU in 2008. He iscurrently a help desk technician. Prior to workingat SBU he was employed by the Bolivar schooldistrict as an elementary teacher at the ExceptionalPupil Cooperative Alternative School.www.sbuniv.edu SBUlife 5

sbu newsSBU’s new faculty for 2012-13From left to right, back row: Dr. Jennifer Fox ’07, Dr. Becky Shoenberg ’08, Dr. Bev McNeal and Bethany WoodsFrom left to right, front row: Dr. Nathan Wright ’05, Rebecca Carlson, Jane Berg, Karlae Callahan, Dr. Tao Wei.Not pictured: Kevin Day, Rebecca (Koe) Godsey.2012 CONVOCATION STORYCONTINUEDDr.HarrisHe came to SBU highly trained inrepairing computer devices. Since he isan SBU graduate, he knows our campusand was able to help employees from dayone. He provides exceptional computersupport with kindness and grace. If he doesnot know the answer, he will go out of hisway to find a solution. He is known byhis colleagues to exemplify the Universitymission statement.He attends First Baptist Church ofBolivar. He is married to Charlotte, theeditor of the Bolivar Herald-Free Press, andhas two daughters: Rachel, who is in firstgrade; and Gloria, who is 3 years old.New Faculty for 2012-13The following new faculty membersalso were introduced during the formalconvocation:Dr. Nathan Wright, is the new assistantprofessor of economics. Dr. Wright holdsa B.A. from Southwest Baptist Universityand a J.D. from the University of Missouri-Columbia.Dr. Jennifer Fox, joins SBU as instructorof education. Fox holds a B.S. fromSouthwest Baptist University, an M.A. fromDominican University and an Ed.D. fromthe University of Missouri-Columbia.Mr. Kevin Day, is the new instructor ofexercise science & athletic training. He hasa B.S. from Southwest Baptist University,and an M.S. from University of CentralMissouri.Jane Berg, joins SBU as assistantprofessor of music. Berg holds a B.M. fromLouisiana State University, and an M.M.from Manhattan School of Music.Rebecca (Koe) Godsey, is the newinstructor of communication arts. She hasa B.A. from Southwest Baptist University,and an M.A. from Missouri State UniversityDr. Bev McNeal, is the new associateprofessor of physical therapy. She holds aB.S. from Baylor University, an M.S. fromTexas Woman’s University, and a D.P.T.from Southwest Baptist University.Dr. Becky Schoeneberg joins SBU asassistant professor of physical therapy. DrSchoeneberg, has a B.S. from Hannibal-LaGrange University, and a D.P.T. fromSouthwest Baptist University.Dr. Tao Wei, is the new associateprofessor of biology. Dr. Wei holds an M.Dfrom Henan Medical University, and a Ph.D.from Uppsala University.Karlae Callahan is the new healthprofessions coordinator (Salem). Callahanholds a A.S. from Columbia College, a B.S.from Barnes School of Nursing, and an M.S.from Sinclair School of Nursing.Ms. Bethany Woods, assistant professorfor Mercy College of Nursing and HealthSciences.Rebecca Carlson joins SBU as assistantprofessor (Springfield). Carlson holds a B.S.from Concordia University, and an M.L.S.from University of North Carolina.6 SBUlife Fall 2012

sbu newsSBU’s Rob Harris is Promoted to VicePresident for Student DevelopmentSBU announced that Dr. Rob Harris has earneda promotion upon successfully defending hisdissertation for a Doctor of Education fromNorthcentral University. Dr. Harris’ study is titled,“The Role of E-Mentoring in Helping CollegeSophomores Persist and Stay Enrolled.” Thestudy has implications for improving retention atuniversities like SBU.President Pat Taylor said in the announcement tothe SBU family: “Rob’s title is changing from Dean ofStudents to Vice President for Student Development.Rob is doing great work with our students, and Iappreciate all he does to help our students succeed.He is an asset to our University.”Dr. Harris began his employment at SBU in thesummer of 1988. He started as the assistant directorof admissions and worked his way through theranks by becoming the director of admissions in1996. His time spent recruiting and admitting futureSBU students was built upon a personal convictionthat Christian higher education provides an extradimension that enables students to grow in theirrelationship with Jesus Christ.In 2004, he transitioned to the dean of students’position where he has served the University, itsstudents, and other institutional constituents inan effort to help fulfill the University’s mission.Overall, he enjoys helping students to think critically,consider new ideas, solve problems, and depend onthe Holy Spirit.Dr. Harris enrolled as a student at SBU in the fallof 1984 and was a member of SBU’s football, baseballand Students In Free Enterprise (SIFE) teams. Hegraduated in 1988 with his Bachelor of Science inbusiness administration. He went on to earn hisMaster of Science in education from SBU in 1996.Dr. Harris said he and his wife, Lorie, met in theirfirst week of classes of their freshman year, unitedin matrimony three years later, and just celebratedtheir 25th anniversary on July 4. Dr. Harris, Lorie,and their three children are active members of FirstBaptist Church of Bolivar, Mo.SBU Announces New Vice Presidentfor University RelationsSouthwest Baptist University President Dr. C.Pat Taylor has announced that Dr. Brad Johnson,Senior Vice President for Institutional Advancementat Howard Payne University, Brownwood, Texas,has accepted the position of Vice President forUniversity Relations at SBU.BIOGRAPHY for Brad S. Johnson, Ed.D.Originally from Lazbuddie, Texas, Dr. Johnson spenthis growing up years on the family farm where heenjoyed working with his dad and granddad.Upon high school graduation he attended BaylorUniversity and graduated with a Bachelor of Sciencein education. He earned two masters’ degrees, aMaster of Arts in religious education and Master ofArts in marriage and family counseling, from a dualdegreeprogram at Southwestern Baptist TheologicalSeminary. In 2005, he earned a Doctor of Educationfrom Baylor University. He is licensed by the state ofTexas as a professional counselor.Dr. Johnson has worked in financial aid andadmissions at Howard Payne, McMurry Universityin Abilene, Texas, and Hardin Simmons University.In 2003, he returned to Howard Payne as VicePresident for Enrollment and Student Services. In2010, he was promoted to Senior Vice President forInstitutional Advancement.Among his hobbies, Dr. Johnson enjoys reading,outdoor activities, and traveling. However, Dr.Johnson most enjoys spending time with his wife,Laura, six year-old son Evan, and four-year olddaughter Elle.Dr. Johnson and his family have been membersof the First Baptist Church in Brownwood where hehas served as a Sunday school teacher and chairmanof the deacon body. Something unique about Dr.Johnson is that he enjoys collecting toy tractors.Dr. Taylor said, “I have known Brad forapproximately ten years, and I am very pleased thathe has chosen to join the SBU family.”www.sbuniv.edu SBUlife 7

faculty focusED & THEO CLARKUniversity SuccessCenter10 th AnniversaryBY DR. STEPHANIE MILLER ’80The success of an institution and the success of its studentsare intrinsically tied together. One of the institutionalperformance indicators that measures whether an institutionis meeting goals related to student satisfaction and successis the retention rate. The freshmen retention rate is definedas the number of students that enter a college in the fall andreturn to the next fall. Higher education historically hasgauged the success of an institution by factors such as thequality of teaching, research, faculty/student interaction,and/or the physical environment of the school; however,the new indicators of success also include the institution’sretention and graduation rates. Retention is not only theresult of academic success but is usually considered a measureof student growth and learning, the effectiveness by theinstitution of meeting student needs, and the extent to whichstudents feel valued and respected.HistoryBeginning in the early 1990’s, the SBU freshmen retentionrate was averaging 64%. With the national average forcomparable universities at 72%, SBU administratorsrecognized the significance that an increase in the freshmenretention rate could have on the overall enrollment.Additionally, the very nature of the mission and purposeof SBU necessitated an environment that produced highlevels of student satisfaction and success. With the supportof President C. Pat Taylor and Dr. Gordon Dutile (formerUniversity Provost), SBU developed and implemented aprogram called the University Success Center beginning inthe fall of 2002.Given the potential of this program, SBU allocated resources,established policies, and provided services that contributedto an effective Success Center. The program was designedto be student-centered and allowed for the collaborativeinvolvement of several campus departments. Thiscollaboration would include academics, student services, andadministrators working together to define mutual objectives,establish implementation strategies, and design properevaluations.The Success Center started with four faculty: Judy Dutile,Sherrie Bayer, Beth Gudmenstad, and Dr. Janet Juhlin, whoalso served as the director. Each faculty member taught thegeneral education courses of University Seminar and CriticalThinking. Additionally, all entering first year students wereadvised in the Success Center. In 2011 the Success Centerwas renamed the Ed & Theo Clark University Success Centerin honor of Dr. Ed Clark and the late Mrs. Theo Clark. Dr.Clark is a retired SBU professor who served as the chair ofthe Accounting Department and Mrs. Clark was Dean ofWomen at SBU. Today, the Success Center faculty still teachthe two general education courses and advise 450 first yearstudents. The faculty today include Dana Steward, who alsoserves as the director, Dr. Allison Langford, Sherrie Bayer,Ted Bachman, and Jodi Meadows.The Clark University Success Center program ischaracterized by a structure that provides intrusive contactwith students, collaboration with other campus programs,strategies for student engagement, qualified faculty, and afocus on affective and cognitive needs. The goal is to increasethe retention rate, and resulting student success, by helpingstudents get started on the path to success during the firstyear of college. The systematic support through orientation,advising, and carefully designed introductory courses hasincreased the freshmen retention rate from 64% to 72%.8 SBUlife Fall 2012

Ed & Theo Clark University Success Center faculty and staff(left to right) Back Row: Jodi Meadows, Dr. Allison Langford, Dr. Stephanie Miller, Ted Bachman, Susan Powers.Front Row: Pam Ferguson, Sherrie Bayer, Dana Steward.Developed with ResearchThe Success Center program was developedwith the mindset that students enter collegewith many educational and personal issues. Inorder to help students succeed and persist, theuniversity must provide services that integratethe complex personal, spiritual, social, andacademic skills that are needed to maneuver thehigher education environment.Freshmen success programs should bringtogether both the academic and studentdevelopment components of an institution.Helping students persist and succeed at aninstitution starts with anticipating and meetingtransition and adjustment issues. Freshmenneed intrusive, proactive strategies that providefor success before they are faced with failure,disappointment, and confusion.The Success Center program, and the resultingcollege student development, is a composite ofbroad and complex tactics.• Academic integration refers to the student’sability to establish contact with facultymembers, demonstrate appropriate studyskills, and conclude that they can persist tograduation. The majority of first-year studentsare not prepared for the expectations of theaverage college professor and enter collegewith an inappropriate mindset about the rigorand demands of collegiate study.• Social integration refers to the student’sability to develop a social life at college, makeclose friends, and establish relationships withfaculty and staff. Additionally, students needinformation concerning the institution’svalues, behavioral norms, and support services.• Identity formation is thought to be one of thecrucial developmental issues faced by studentsduring the college years. It is during this timethat students reflect upon their current lifesituation and their goals for the future inorder to make decisions regarding life aftercollege. Some students may not have strongeducational self-concepts and identities. Somestudents are not fully prepared for highereducation, resulting in anxiety, distress, andthe absence of a maturity required for effectiveacademic performance.• Spiritual development is important forstudents to make career decisions and longtermcommitments about service to others,family life, and community involvement.Additionally, it is important to recognizethat spiritual development, and particularlyfaith, in college students is often the supportneeded through one of the most difficultand uncertain times in their lives. Spiritualdevelopment involves deriving meaning,purpose and direction in one’s life.www.sbuniv.edu SBUlife 9

To make this freshmen connection, the studentmust have direct contact with the institutionalresources that are most effective in promotingpersonal, social, and academic adjustment.Institutions should put their strongest, moststudent-centered people, programs, andservices in the freshmen year. The freshmenretention program at SBU includes thefollowing:Orientation ProgramsOrientation programs help students make asuccessful transition to college and becomeacclimated to the process of higher learning. .Pre-admission programs include informingprospective students and their families aboutthe institution through campus visits, writtenmaterial, and information programs. Afterprospective students have applied and beenadmitted, they participate in pre-enrollmentprograms which include academic advising,registration, and orientation to the campus.Welcome Week, conducted just before thestart of classes during the first year, includesacademic integration, spiritual, social andinterpersonal development, transition issues,and logistical concerns.The integration of freshmen into the academicsetting is a critical component of the orientationprocess. Students also need to develop realisticexpectations of the amount and type of workrequired for academic success. Learningwhat it takes to be successful academicallyincludes inventing a rhythm for studying andprioritizing tasks and assignments. OrientationJodi MeadowsInstructor of University Success Center; Gordon & Judy Dutile Honors Program Support Faculty"The aspect of working in the Success Center that is most meaningful to me is thecollegiality and professionalism of my co-workers. Every faculty member in the SuccessCenter is truly committed to integrity in advising and excellence in teaching. I appreciatethe time we spend each semester collecting data and evaluating the impact of ourpractices on student learning and retention. Although we have autonomy in our methods,we approach the entire process as a team effort which enriches our work environment,as well as strengthens our interaction with students."Sherrie Bayer, M.S. ’92Instructor of University Success Center; Interdisciplinary Studies Coordinator;Upperclassman At-risk Coordinator“I love working with freshmen at this pivotal time in their lives when they are deciding theirmajor, adapting to college life, and becoming independent. I get to be a part of that processby encouraging students, empowering them with skills that will help them be successful, andchallenging them to seek God’s will for their lives.”Dana StewardInstructor of University Success Center; University Success Center Director“I truly enjoy working with first-year students. I love building relationships with them andproviding support and guidance as they begin their college experience. The first year ofcollege is an important time of growth for students and it’s an honor for me to walk besidestudents as they mature and pursue the life that God has planned for them.“10 SBUlife Fall 2012

activities provide opportunities to meet currentstudents, other incoming students, staff, andfaculty. Institutions should take advantage ofthe positive effect that campus activities haveon students’ social integrationHigher Education IntegrationOrientation programs also provide anopportunity for incoming students to becomebetter acquainted with higher educationprocedures and expectations. Informationalitems related to academic programs shouldinclude grading policies, graduationrequirements, academic honesty, registrationfor courses, drop-add policies, and academicstructure. General information and logisticalconcerns included in orientation sessions aredescriptions of services available, campustraditions, purchasing books, financial aid/business matters, registering a car, using thelibrary, who to call for help, and campuslocations.Another critical component of developingfreshmen success is the orientation programsfor the student’s family. Orientation provides aprogrammatic intervention that helps educateboth the family members and the studentsabout the transition process. Understandingappropriate behaviors related to transition tocollege can result in the ability for students tofunction independently while still maintainingan important emotional connection to theirfamilies.Seminar and Critical ThinkingUniversity Seminar and Critical Thinkingare two general education classes that set thetone for a student to be successful in college.The University Seminar course is designed toacclimate students to campus life and to themission of SBU. A major component of thecourse involves students learning about theirstrengths and weaknesses as a learner and inregard to how they study. Critical Thinking isdesigned to promote an awareness of a personalvalue system as well as to promote the use ofcritical thinking skills in the study of issues intoday’s society.AdvisingThe advisors in the Success Center do not justprescribe courses by following a predeterminedplan. Instead, the Success Center facultyuses a developmental approach to advising.For the individual student, the advisorsconsider the student’s interests, goals, andstrengths when creating academic and careerplans. Developmental advising is built onrelationships.Through its design, implementation,and continued collaboration with otherdepartments, the Success Center has beeninstrumental in increasing the retention rates offirst-year students. This improvement reflectsthe Success Center’s role in preparing studentsto be successful academically and in providingthe support students need throughout theirfirst-year experience at SBU.Ted BachmanInstructor of University Success Center; Freshman At-risk Coordinator“I started working for Dr. Stephanie Miller in the Success Center 6 years ago. I moved to Bolivar aftergraduating from Dallas Theological Seminary. My wife, whose familiarity with Bolivar was primarily aproduct of my storytelling, enthusiastically agreed to return with me to my alum. My experiences at SBUas a student were transformational and so it was natural for me to embrace the prospect of sharing inthe instruction and guidance that takes place here at SBU. I am thankful to Dr. Miller and the SuccessCenter for the instructional opportunity to encourage first year students to maintain, the sometimesdifficult, but rewarding path. Dr. Miller, thank you for all your work while I was a student, and thankyou for your continued commitment to all students at SBU. Specifically, I want to offer my gratitude onbehalf of those students who, ordinarily, might not have a chance for success if it were not for your hardwork and dedication.”Dr. Allison LangfordAssistant Professor of University Success Center; Associate Provost of Teaching and Learning; Gordon &Judy Dutile Honors Program Director“What I enjoy most about working in the Success Center is the people. Our students areenthusiastic and eager, and they are willing to accept the challenge to consider why they arein college, to explore who they are and how they can grow, and to evaluate and improve howthey learn and how they think. My colleagues are also incredible professionals, individuals, andChristians. Coming to work is simply a joy, an extension of life and family, not a “job.” I am blessedto be a part of the first-year experience.”www.sbuniv.edu SBUlife 11

sports focusCaptionCaptionPhillip MillerAshley WolkomirTrenton MorrisKrenda McClureSBU Cross Countryhas record setting yearBY JEFF WESELOH ’09The 2012 cross country season marksone of the best seasons in the historyof SBU cross country. Both the men’s andwomen’s teams placed 2 nd at the MIAACross Country Championships, markingthe highest conference finish for thewomen in the history of the program.Two weeks later the men’s team qualifiedfor the NCAA National Championshipfor only the second time in schoolhistory.The Bearcats used a strong base fromthe summer, key workouts during theseason, and a good balance of racesthroughout the year to help perform ata high standard during conference andregional competition. During the regularseason, the Bearcats put together someof the strongest individual performancesSBU cross country has ever seen. At theJackling Jocks Invite, Ashley Wolkomirran the fastest women’s 5,000 meter timein school history (17:53.12), while PhillipMiller followed her performance up byrunning the fastest men’s 8,000 metertime in school history (24:33.13). Duringthe season, Wolkomir claimed twoMIAA Athlete of the Week awards whilePhillip Miller and Cody Troy Smith eachearned the honor once.The Bearcats rounded out their 2012season with strong performances atboth the MIAA Championships and theNCAA Central Regional Championships.At the 2012 MIAA Championships,Ashley Wolkomir tied for the highestindividual finish of any women’s runnerin the history of the program whenshe placed 3 rd in the women’s 6,000meter race. The women’s team had twoAll-MIAA performers in Wolkomirand Krenda McClure helping themto tie their highest conference finishin the history of SBU women’s crosscountry. On the men’s side, the Bearcatsalso had two All-MIAA performersin Phillip Miller and Trenton Morris.Miller finished 2 nd overall during the8,000 meter race, while Morris took8 th place, helping lead the Bearcats toa 2 nd place team finish. “I was veryproud of the effort both teams displayedat conference,” head coach CoreyMcElhaney stated about his teams. “Weran some great races, but came up alittle short of an MIAA Championship.This was the closest, most competitiveconference meet we have had in severalyears. I was very proud of how bothteams reacted at crunch time.”The Bearcats looked to use themomentum and confidence theyhad gained from 2 nd place finishes atconference to propel them to qualifyfor the NCAA National Championships.The women’s team ran a tough race at the12 SBUlife Fall 2012

sports focus(from left to right)Back Row: Mandy Brady, Briana Watson,Ashley Lawson, Corey McElhaney,Christina Owensby, Katherine SitzesFront Row: Emily Cumpton, AlexisLindemann, Karissa Fisher, AshleyWolkomir, Krenda McClure(from left to right)Back Row: Derek Lee, Trenton Morris,Phillip Miller, Corey McElhaneyFront Row: Luke Karamitros, Drew Cargill,Josh Inman, Cody Troy SmithCaption2012 NCAA Central Regional Championships,but came up just short from qualifying forNationals. The Bearcats finished 6 th as a team,with five teams advancing to Nationals, butrecorded the highest team finish in the historyof the program. The women’s team also hadtwo individuals earn All-Region status forthe first time in program history in AshleyWolkomir and Krenda McClure.At the 2012 NCAA Central RegionalChampionships the men’s team qualified forthe NCAA National Championships for onlythe second time in school history. The teamwas once again led by Phillip Miller whoplaced 4 th overall, the second highest Regionalfinish in school history, to help lead them toa 4 th place team finish. The Bearcats also hadthe most single season All-Region runners inthe history of SBU men’s cross country withPhillip Miller, Trenton Morris, and Cody TroySmith all earning the prestigious honor. “Todayour men ran lights out,” Coach McElhaneystated after the regional race. “I truly could nothave asked too much more out of them. I am soproud of how they ran today.”The future looks bright for both the men’sand women’s cross country teams. The SBUmen’s cross country team will look to be themost successful team in school history whenthey take to the course again on November 17at the 2012 NCAA National Championships.The Bearcats will look have the highestnational finish in school history. On thewomen’s side, the Bearcats have the potentialto return every runner in their top seven, andwill look to make their first NCAA NationalChampionships appearance in 2013.NCAA Infractions ReportSouthwest Baptist University's head men's basketballcoach committed recruiting violations and failed topromote an atmosphere for compliance, accordingto findings by the NCAA Division II Committee onInfractions. Penalties include one year of probation,multiple recruiting limitations, scholarship reductionsand a suspension for the head coach for two conferencegames.Penalties include:• Public reprimand and censure.• One year of probation from May 23, 2012 throughMay 22, 2013.• A coaching suspension for the first two conferencegames of the 2012-13 men's basketball season for thehead coach.• Removal of texting privileges from the head coach’sphone during the 2011-12 academic year (self-imposedby the university).• Participation by the head coach in ethics trainingwithin 60 days of the release of the infractions reportand an NCAA Regional Rules Seminar.• Reduction of allowable men's basketball scholarshipsfrom 10 to eight scholarships for the 2012-13 year.• Prohibition from any on-campus recruiting activitiesfor a 12-week period and elimination of off-campusrecruiting activities for six months, beginning August1, 2011, for all men's basketball coaching staff. (selfimposedby the university)• Suspension of all official visits for the 2011-12 academicyear (self-imposed by the university).• The men's basketball staff may not send or respond toany text messages during the one-year probation.www.sbuniv.edu SBUlife 13

sports news2012-13 WinterSports PreviewBrittney DukesKyle SloanEmma ShellBY JEFF WESELOH ’09The SBU winter sports are shaping up tohave a very successful 2012-13 season. Themen’s basketball team is coming off of theireighth consecutive MIAA post-season appearance,the women’s basketball team is in theirsecond year under head coach Todd Voss, andthe indoor track and field team is coming offof a record setting year.Last season head coach Jeff Guiot led themen’s basketball team to an SBU record eighthstraight MIAA post-season tournament appearanceas well as becoming the winningestcoach in SBU history. The Bearcats onlyreturn three players from last year’s squad,Kyle Sloan, Ricky Odige, and Preston Guiot,but Coach Guiot is looking for significantcontribution from these three players on thisyear’s team.Preston Guiot was the second leadingscorer on the Bearcats last season, averaging12.7 points per game and 5.1 assists pergame, while Kyle Sloan gave SBU 12.0 pointsper game while pulling down 3.4 reboundsper game. To compliment the two startersreturning from last season, Coach Guiothas returning senior Ricky Odige and hasbrought in four junior college transfers andseven freshman to fill out his squad. A majorstrength of the men’s team coming into theseason with be their athleticism and ability toshoot the three. The Bearcats will once againfind themselves contending for an MIAAchampionship with the strong team CoachGuiot has brought in.On the women’s side head coach Todd Vossis in his second year of shaping the programand returning women’s basketball back to thestrong tradition of winning. Coach Voss’ teammade significant strides last season, and bringback five players from last year’s team, includingfour starters.Two of the players Coach Voss will looktoward to guide this squad will be his twoseniors, Brittney Dukes and Chasity Prince.Dukes was the leading scorer on last year’steam, averaging 13.6 points per game whilePrince led SBU in field goal percentage(51.4%), three point field goal percentage(49.0%), and averaged 9.4 points per game.A big key to a successful 2012-13 seasonfor the women’s team will be the health ofthe team. Last season the Bearcats struggledthrough injuries, with key members of thesquad not able to play the full 26 game schedulelast year. However, Coach Voss believesthis team is strong and is coming into theseason fully healthy. The women’s team has astrong work ethic, culture, and excellent teamchemistry that is necessary to be successful inthe MIAA.The final sport of the 2012-13 winterseason is the men’s and women’s indoor trackand field team. Last season the indoor trackand field team broke eight school records, andare returning two-time outdoor track andfield All-American Emma Shell for her junioryear. The Bearcats also return Corie Chuning,a national provisional qualifying runner in the100 meter dash, and their distance medley relayteam which also had a national provisionalqualifying time last season.On the men’s side, SBU returns DenekoBrown who was a national provisional qualifierin the 60 meter dash, Bill Shell who wasAll-MIAA performer in 400 meter dash, andthe entire Distance Medley Relay team whichearned All-MIAA status last season.The Bearcats are set to have another strongwinter sports season as each team is lookingtoward claiming MIAA team championships.14 SBUlife Fall 2012

alumni focusWren Hall ’95Influential InformationMarried for 17 years, Wren Hall and her husbandEllis have two daughters – MacKenzie, 12, andEmme, 9 – and a son, Ryder, 7. Though she hasmany mentors, Hall says her parents are the mostinfluential. “They are examples of faith, values,dedication, truth and patience,” Hall says.Words to Live By: “To whom much is given, muchis expected.” –Luke 12:48. “My dad always said thisto us growing up. And, of course it was followed bymuch eye rolling by me. Guess what now hangsover my front door to inspire my family every day?This scripture.”Just for Fun: If you wrote a book or starred ina movie, what would it be about and why? “IfI starred in a movie, I would want to be given arole that is just completely out of character for me.Maybe I could be a secret agent in a foreign country.Lots of fire, guns, stunts and fast cars.”Springfield Business Journal2012 Most Influential WomenHonoree: Wren HallCitizens Memorial Healthcareby Kris CollinsIn her role as director of communityrelations at CitizensMemorial Healthcare, WrenHall has ample opportunities tohelp others, primarily throughcommunity events and connectionsto health organizations andschools in the health system’smostly rural service area.“I get to connect peopletogether so they can really makean impact in the lives of thosearound them,” Hall says, notingshe serves on health committeesin several counties.“When CMHmade it a strategic goal, withvery specific actions, to changethe health and wellness behaviorof our community, I was able toconnect with area business leadersand health departments tonot only make this a priority atCMH but in all areas and cornersof our service area.”The Southwest BaptistUniversity graduate worked forBaxter Regional Medical Centerin Mountain Home, Ark., asdirector of marketing for sevenyears and was an independenthealth care marketing consultantfor two years before landing inher current role at CMH. Amongher accomplishments at thehealth system, Hall points tochanging outreach and effortsto educate area patients abouthealth and wellness and CMHservices.“Before I came to the organization,we did a few big eventsa year that may have had a lotof attendance, but made littleimpact on creating a changein behavior,” Hall says. Sheuses annual market research topinpoint the top health-relatedtopics of interest and organizesfree monthly lunch-and-learnsessions limited to 50 attendeesand hosted by CMH staff experts.Another annual event, theMother-Tween Daughter GirlsNight, focuses on girls ages 9years to 12 years, educating themabout emotions, body changes,friendships and nutrition.She also is a member ofthe board of directors ofPolk County CommunityConnections.“The group brings all aspectsof our community together –government, health, education,civic, et cetera – to learn whatis happening in our communityand what the needs are,” Hallsays. She’s also on the Mayor’sCouncil on Health and WellnessCommittee.“Recent projects include workingwith the Polk County HealthDepartment on the Live Wellprogram with area restaurants,nutrition programs in the schooldistrict, Bolivar Farmer’s Market,sidewalks and bike-friendlystreets,” Hall says.Copyright Springfield BusinessJournal. Republished withpermission.www.sbuniv.edu SBUlife 15

alumni focusDr. LindaWooderson ’78Influential InformationLinda Wooderson has been marriedfor 40 years to Dwight Wooderson,construction supervisor at SBU.They have two sons. Joe, whois married with two daughters, isworship pastor at First BaptistChurch in Bolivar, and Jason, who ismarried with a daughter and a son,works as a large-animal veterinarianin Bolivar. Among her mentors,Wooderson points to LouiseWimberly and Norma Bishop. “Bothladies have lived their lives honoringGod and serving people unselfishly,”she says.Words to Live By: “Never be lazyin your work but serve the Lordenthusiastically.” —Romans 12:11Just for Fun: If you wrote a bookor starred in a movie, what wouldit be about and why?“Humor in all situations. I love the linein the movie, ‘Angels in the Outfield,’saying: ‘It could happen.’ I think allthings can happen – we just needto look from different angles, think alittle harder, change our perspectiveor experiment with the possibilities.”Springfield Business Journal2012 Most Influential WomenHonoree: Linda Wooderson, Ed.D.Southwest Baptist Universityby Kris CollinsEmpowering the people she workswith is a key component of leadershipfor Linda Wooderson.“I truly believe that when giventhe right materials and contacts allthings can be done,” says Wooderson,dean of the college of education andsocial sciences at Southwest BaptistUniversity. “By empowering myacademic chairs with the freedom toexplore possibilities and encouragingvision within their future academicneeds, I can assist them in reachingtheir goals as I take their desires andfruits of labor through administrativechannels.”Wooderson also is a professor ofkinesiology at SBU. “I am a teachingdean, both in the classroom and online,”she says. “I have the same experiences(faculty members) do, and we worktogether to make things better.”Wooderson says her proudestmoments come from seeing visions orideas come to fruition, as was the casewith the college of education and socialsciences.“This college just developed, fromthe ground level, two degrees – oneundergrad and one graduate,”Wooderson says. “The graduatedegree took more than six yearsto fully develop, survey and secureaccreditation with glowing remarks. …Both degrees are full with waiting lists.”While Wooderson considersbecoming a female dean at the privateuniversity a “huge benchmark,” she’salso proud of her role as president ofthe Missouri Association of Collegesfor Teacher Education, of which everytwo- and four-year public and privateinstitution in Missouri is a member.Wooderson says her job aspresident is to make sure all MACTEparticipants are up-to-date oneducational guidelines, statutes and theactions of the state board of educationand the legislature in relation to teachereducation.“Developing committees to speakwith our legislature to enhancetheir working knowledge of teachereducation or to persuade (legislators)of the desires of teachers or the futureof teaching is a monumental task,”Wooderson says.Wooderson also has a directimpact on the success of her students,sometimes by helping them secureinternships or job interviews.No matter which role she’s in,Wooderson sticks with a tried-andtrueapproach.“Working side by side, pulling myown weight, doing the research androlling up my sleeves to dig in a littlefurther have been traits I try to exhibitin every situation,” she says.Copyright Springfield Business Journal.Republished with permission.16 SBUlife Fall 2012

faculty alumni focusGil Trout ’87Motivating FactorsFamilyI am married to my wife Julie,and we recently celebrated our20th wedding anniversary. Wehave one child, Nate, 11, whois a fifth-grader at SequiotaElementary.Words to live byThe quote that sits by my deskis one from St. Augustine:“Patience is the companion towisdom.”Childhood career dreamsI wanted to be either a tennisprofessional or a news anchor.Springfield Business Journal2012 Men of the Year Honoree: Gil TroutUMB BankGil Trout is a banker with a keen senseof balance – and he wouldn’t have it anyother way.Trout, chairman and CEO ofKansas City-based UMB Bank’sGreater Missouri Region, is an activecommunity advocate, with rolesincluding serving as chairman of theSpringfield Workshop Foundation,which supports Springfield WorkshopInc., a private, not-for-profitcorporation that employs people withdisabilities.He also serves on the boardof directors for CoxHealth and isvice president of the board for theCoxHealth Foundation.“A Welsh proverb states that ‘Aleader must also be a bridge,’” Troutsays. “I take time in my daily life tobridge and blend my life in such a waythat I make time for job duties [and]community involvement and groundmyself in faith and family.”Trout, who holds a bachelor’sdegree in business administration fromSouthwest Baptist University and aMaster of Business Administrationfrom Avila University, joined UMB in1988.“Guiding a productive segment ofa well-respected financial institutiondemonstrates my tangible leadershipqualities such as vision, focus andthe ability to activate people towarda common goal,” Trout says. “Thekey roles I play in our community –and with individuals – are the truedemonstration of my leadership. Myleadership style is founded on beingpresent in the moment with people[and] maintaining compassion andperspective in easy and challengingtimes.”Trout’s current communityengagements also include serving as aboard member of the Missouri CollegesFund and as a business advisory boardmember of the Students in FreeEnterprise chapter at SBU. He alsoserves as a mentor with Boys and GirlsClubs of Springfield and is a forummoderator for the Ozarks Chapter ofthe Young Presidents’ Organization.No matter which hat he’s wearing,Trout says developing others isrewarding for him.“I am energized by assistingpeople in discovering their strengths,opportunities and abilities,” says Trout,who’s also a volunteer youth tenniscoach and vice president of the U.S.Tennis Association’s Missouri District.At UMB, Trout meets regularlywith associates, helping them find newavenues for professional growth.“I provide them with opportunitiesto build their talents into success (and)have mentored several individuals asthey have grown into new leadershiproles,” he adds. “I understand theprocesses people must take to achievetheir goals and find a quiet sense ofinner gratification when they meetthose goals.”Copyright Springfield Business Journal.Republished with permission.www.sbuniv.edu SBUlife 17

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S O U T H W E S T B A P T I S T U N I V E R S I T YHomecoming2012 Life Service Award RecipientsLeft to right: Ch(Col) Jeff Houston; Brian Walker, President of Alumni Board; Dorothy Johnson Laverentz;Beth Toppass Snowden; Dr. C. Pat Taylor, Dr. Stan Smith, and Jacqulyn Bateman Thornwww.sbuniv.edu SBUlife 19

Mark yourcalendarand makeplans now tojoin us forHomecoming 2013October 4 & 5!20 SBUlife Fall 2012

DOROTHY JOHNSON LAVERENTZ• AA from SWBC in 1953; BA in educationfrom the University of Missouri Kansas City• Worked at La Petite Academy’53• Attends Northgate Baptist Church inKansas City, MO• 10 years of service with Meals on Wheels• Married to Raymond with one daughterDebbie Howe and husband Kelly. Threegrandchildren: Derek, Patrick and BreannaDR. STAN SMITH ’71• BA from SWBC in 1971; M. Div. from TheSouthern Baptist Theological Seminaryin 1975; D.Min. from Golden Gate BaptistTheological Seminary in 1993• Serves as the Associate ExecutiveDirector and State Director of Missions(28 years) for the Baptist Convention ofPennsylvania-South Jersey• Attends East Shore Baptist Church inHarrisburg, PA and serves on the missionscommittee• Married to Lynda with 2 children:Stanley Smith, Jr. and his wife, MirnaKenovich, and their son, Luka Andrew;and Elizabeth Doherty and her husbandRyan Doherty.JACQULYN BATEMAN THORN’59• AA from SWBC in 1959; BS in Educationfrom the University of Central Missouri(formerly CMSU) in 1963; MS in Educationfrom the University of Central Missouriin 1973• Public school teacher for 34 years, retiredin 1994• Member of Hamilton Baptist Church inHamilton, MO since 1966, serves as churchlibrarian• Married to Gordon Thorn with two stepchildren:Julie Condit and her husbandEldon of Colorado, and the late ThomasThorn and wife Mindy of Iowa; one granddaughter,Heather and husband BarryHouk, and one great grandson, LandynnThomas Houk.CH (COL) JEFF HOUSTON’75• BA in Religion and Music from SWBC in1975; M. Div. from Golden Gate Seminaryin 1989; Masters of Strategic Studies fromthe U.S. Army War College in 2012• Chaplain Colonel in the U.S. Army, 23years of Active Duty service; four combattours in Iraq• Ordained Southern Baptist Chaplainendorsed by the North American MissionBoard• Married to Lisa for 39 years with threedaughters: Amy Ashley, Sara Price andKaren PhippsBETH TOPPASS SNOWDEN’51• AA from SWBC in 1951; BS in Educationfrom the University of Central Missouri(formerly CMSU) in 1959; Master of Sciencein Education from the University of CentralMissouri in 1975• Retired school teacher and counselor; 28 ½years of service• Charter member of Susquehanna BaptistChurch; teaches Sunday School and singsin the choir• Married to the late Clay Snowden withfour children: Carol Hensley and husbandNelson, the late Jonathan Snowden andwife Diana; Lyndell Snowden and wifeMary, and Glenn Snowdenwww.sbuniv.edu SBUlife 21

keeping in touchVISIT www.sbuniv.edu/alumni for more news and photos!1964Mary Jane (Tash) Landreth’s fifth book forBarbour Publishing has just been released. Sheis teaching writing classes for Neosho CountyCommunity College in Chanute, KS along withhaving a writing career. Mary and her husbandJack ’66, reside at 421 W. Oak St., Chanute,Kansas 66720. Jlandreth445@att.net1976Stan Sullinger and Greg Morrow traveledand taught together at the Ukrainian BaptistTheological Seminary located just outsideL’Viv, Ukraine. Leadership and Homiletics weretaught as part of the 20/20 effort of the FutureLeadership Foundation to strengthen andexpand the church in the Ukraine.1977Deborah (McAllister), and husband Dana Brownhave three wonderful grandchildren, Kainan, 4;Mikaela, 1; and Joel, 3 months. Deborah and Danaare the proprietors of Deb B’s Transport Service.They provide non-emergency Medicaid medicaltransportation. 805 E 13 th St, Mountain Grove,MO 65711.1978Michael Rorie recently moved to Westmont,Ill. from Fort Hood, Texas. This was a militarymove; he will be senior chaplain assistant for416th Engineer Command in Darien, Ill., an ArmyReserve Command.1989Mark Sneed has recently moved from Arizonaback to Colorado where he has taken a positionas Business Development Manager for a smallenergy company. Mark is looking to reconnectwith old SBU friends living in the Denver area.9741 Saybrook St., Highlands Ranch, CO 80126.marksneed@hotmail.com.After living in Slater, Mo., for four years Robin Fryreturned to his hometown of Marceline, Mo., tobe closer to his family. He substitutes at severalarea school districts, writes, and keeps busy withvolunteer activities. Last year, he adopted Shiloh,a Min-Pin mix dog who has been a welcomecompanion. “She’s made such a difference inmy life that I now advocate pet adoption as wellas other issues of the No Kill animal advocacymovement.”Brad Conley accepted a new position as anActuarial Assistant at Blue Cross Blue Shield ofKansas City in March. Brad and wife Carol havetwo children, Bethany, 2; and Lyndsey, 9. TheConleys reside at 6104 NW 70 th St. Apt 108,Kansas City, MO 64151. Bradconley@juno.com.1986Wayne Wall has been called as the new Directorof Missions for Northeastern Baptist Associationin Grove, Okla. He has been a pastor for 29years. Wayne lives with his wife Lisa at 1621 C NE,Miami, OK 74354. W6wall@reagan.com.Jim Seward1990Jim Seward has successfully defended his finaldoctoral dissertation, titled “A CollaborativeProblem Solving and Youth ResidentialCounselors’ Workplace Stress” Jim who is nowthe Executive Director of Youth Shelter Careof North Central Iowa, Inc. (YSC), Ft. Dodge,Iowa, has presented a doctorate of PsychologyCounseling Education (Ed,D) by ArgosyUniversity during its 2012 commencementexercises on Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012 duringdiploma ceremonies for the Graduate School ofCollege of Psychology and Behavioral Science,Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Seward, who earned hisM.S. Ed. degree in Counseling Education fromWestern Illinois University and his undergraduateB.A. in Psychology and Religious Educationfrom Southwest Baptist University has been inthe Human Service vocation for over 20 yearsin a variety of vocations; military, ministry, lawenforcement, and clinical mental health therapy.He has guided others as a military officer, youthpastor, police officer, therapist, and administrator.2001Christopher Breshears is the new Director ofCommunications at the Center for Spiritualityand Healing at the University of Minnesota. Hewould love to hear from local alums and Bearcatfriends.14909 Excelsior Blvd, Minnetonka, MN55245. kitbreshears@gmail.com2004Jaime Hodson graduated in May 2012 with aMaster of Arts in Communications from theUniversity of Oklahoma - Norman. She hasworked for three years at Chesapeake EnergyCorporation in the Corporate Developmentdepartment as Coordinator of GovernmentRelations. jaimelhodson@gmail.com.John Adams and wife Amber will be servingwith New Tribes Mission as teachers in PapuaNew Guinea. They are currently raising supportand plan to arrive in PNG in June 2013 to beginteaching missionary children at NumonohiChristian Academy. Updates can be found at ntm.org/john-adams. 9800 Oakley Ave, Kansas City,MO 64137. John_adams@ntm.org.Future BearcatsCarrie (Knapp) ‘01, and husband Ben Kendall’96are thrilled to announce the birth of their sonDillon Charles Kendall on February 22, 2012.Dillon has an older brother, Isaac “James” Kendall,4. “With God nothing is impossible!” Luke 1:37.116 N. College Ave., Republic, MO 65738.Carsy1219@yahoo.com.Katie (Lowrance) ‘02 and Yvan Jean-Louis,would like to announce the birth of their sonBenjamin Clency Jean-Louis on May 2, 2012.Benjamin Brennecke ’03 and wife Melissa(Evans) ‘03 would like to introduce their newchild Evan Curtis Brennecke. He was born August1, 2011. Evan has an older brother, Lucas, 5. 630Green Tree Meadows Drive, Lake Saint Louis, MO63367. Thebrenneckes03@yahoo.com.22 SBULife Summer 200822 SBUlife Fall 2012

VISIT www.sbuniv.edu/alumni for more news and photos!keeping in touchApril have moved to Sparta in 2011, havingbought their first house. “Daniel is currentlyholding two jobs, and April stays home with thelittle ones.” April is opening a piano studio inSparta in November. 440 Sunset St, Sparta, MO65753. breonfam@yahoo.com. Picture in File!Alumni Relations for SBU and Anthony is thepastor of First Baptist Church, Osceola, MO.In MemoryBreon FamlyDaniel Breon ’98 and wife April (Hissink)’99would like to announce the birth of Emily Rose.She was born on October 17, 2011. Emily joinssiblings Benjamin, 7; and Cassie, 3. Daniel andElizabeth (Lueker) ’04 and husband DavidLatall would like to announce the birth of theirdaughter Jayna Lea born on February 4, 2012.She joins proud big brother Josiah 4.Sarah (McDaniel) ’08 and husband AndyBryant would like to announce the birth of theirdaughter Lily Marita on August 25, 2012. Sheweighted 5lbs 5oz, and was 18.5 inches long.Anthony ‘04 and Lindsay (Lewis) ‘04 Schindlerwelcomed Luke Anthony Schindler to theirfamily on October 21, 2012. He was 7 lbs 14 oz,and 22 inches long. Lindsay is the Director ofEva Lou (Hendrickson) Farnham ’56 passed awayFebruary 19, 2012. She leaves behind husbandNeil ’54, son David ’87, and four grandchildren.Eva Lou was the organist at Maplewood BaptistChurch in St. Louis for over 40 years.Beverly Ricketts Green ’50 of Independence,Mo. passed away May 9, 2012. Beverly graduatedfrom Southwest Baptist College with anAssociate’s degree in English.Please note that alumni updates are published in SBU Life in the order they are received, depending on the space available in each issue.Therefore, it may take several months for Keeping in Touch submissions to be printed. Also, we will be happy to list your weddings and babies,but it is our policy not to list engagements or little expectations.Let’s Keep in Touch!Alumni News:______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Name:___________________________________________________________Class of:___________ Degree:__________(please include maiden name if applicable)(AA, BA, BS, MBA, MPT, MS)Address:_____________________________________________ City:___________________ State:____ Zip:__________Email:__________________________________________ Telephone:__________________________________________# of Children:______________________ Employment:_______________________________________________________Spouse:__________________________________________________________Class of:___________ Degree:__________(please include maiden name if applicable)(AA, BA, BS, MBA, MPT, MS)Please do not publish my address Please do not publish my email addressReturn to: Southwest Baptist University • Office of Alumni Relations • 1600 University Avenue • Bolivar, MO 65613You can also complete this form online at www.SBUniv.edu/alumni if it’s more convenient.For more SBU News, visit www.sbuniv.edu/news. Did you know SBU has an RSS news feed? Check it out online!www.sbuniv.edu SBULife 23www.sbuniv.edu SBUlife 23

University RelationsDear friends,What a joy it has been to meet so many of you during this, my first fall at SBU!My wife, Laura, and I are thrilled to be a part of the SBU family. Together, withour children Evan and Elle, we look forward to making Bolivar “home.” Youhave made us feel so welcome, and for that we are deeply grateful. For those ofyou, whom we have not yet had the opportunity to meet, we look forward togetting to know you and hearing your stories of SWBC and SBU.Our work in Christian higher education is fueled by a desire to help studentsshine brightly in every aspect of their lives and in each endeavor to which theyput their hands. Scripture tells us in Matthew 5:15 that we are to “let our lightshine before men so that they may see our good works and glorify our Fatherwho is in Heaven.” Equipping students to know God more deeply, understanding their calling andfaithfully serving Him in their life‘s work is not only rewarding but also a spiritual responsibility wetake seriously. I believe one of our most important roles as leaders in Christian higher education is toprepare students to face the challenges of our world and equip them to be leaders so they can, in turn, bea beacon of light in a world that so desperately needs the love of Christ.During my time here, I have found SBU to be a mission-focused University where Christ is honored;a place that is caring and compassionate; a place where students are challenged to grow intellectuallyand a place where students are equipped for lives of service. In a society where much is said aboutbeing mission-minded and mission-driven, it is refreshing to find a University that is intentional aboutworking out its mission in very visible and viable ways.As we prepare to carry the mission of SBU into the future, we are eager to partner with you to securethis unique SBU opportunity for generations of students to come. One significant way to do this isby growing the SBU endowment. While there are many ways of helping the University, growing theendowment may be one of the most strategic means of ensuring that SBU remains strong. The SBUendowment, comprised of funding generously given to the University by alumni and friends, serves asa perpetual support for SBU programs, scholarships and other University functions. These funds allowthe University to more easily negotiate economic uncertainties while continuing to fulfill the mission towhich God has called us.In the coming months, you will hear us talk more about growing the SBU endowment and why webelieve this effort warrants our attention. If you would like to know more about how you can help inthis effort, I will be glad to share with you how the endowment works and answer any questions youmight have.As the Christmas season approaches and we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, our Savior, we wish foryou an abundance of joy and peace. May His light shine more brightly through us with each passing year.Sincerely,Dr. Brad JohnsonVice President for University Relations24 SBUlife Fall 2012

Building Bearcat PrideTwenty-seven years ago, the generosity of Robert W. Plaster, the Plaster family, along with numerous otherfriends of SBU, funded the construction of Plaster Stadium and the Plaster Athletic Center leaving a legacythat has benefited countless SBU students, fans and community members. We look back and thank those whohad the foresight to give us a first-class facility that has been the site of so many memories.Looking forward, we, the beneficiaries of the past, have an exciting opportunity to come together once again tobuild SBU pride. You can help establish a new legacy by donating to the Track and Turf Campaign for the PlasterStadium Complex. Our goal is to raise money to help fund the replacement of the stadium’s grass field withsafer, all-weather synthetic turf for the football and soccer programs as well as a state-of-the-art competitiontrack—a much needed renovation that will benefit SBU students, our secondary education partners and thecommunity for years to come. Additionally, the Stadium press box is being renovated and new lockers arebeing added to the Plaster Athletic Center. The cost of these projects is approximately $1,500,000 and will befinanced over a period of time. All donations are tax-deductible.Contact the Office ofUniversity Relations formore information417-328-1805bjohnson@sbuniv.edu

SBUlifeSouthwest Baptist University1600 University AvenueBolivar, MO 65613A life of directionstarts at SouthwestVisit SBUMonday @SouthwestJan. 21 or Feb. 18www.SBUniv.edu/visitPaper Made from 10%Post Consumer WastePLEASE RECYCLE