csu magazine vol.19 no.2

vol.19 •no.2

the COOKIEMOMSTER

ALUM PURSUES EVERY AVENUE

TO HELP SON

LEARNINGCookie Momsters, Inc.:

Business Born Out of

Desperation

LEADINGRadabaugh Plays

Against the Odds

SERVINGMinistry Reaches

Beyond the Church

SCHOOL TIESFounding Classes to Be

Honored at Homecoming

8 20 28 40

The Arts at CSU

September 13 - Sunday Spotlight Series: CSU Performance Faculty, 3 p.m., Lightsey Chapel

October 1 - CSU Players production, 7:30 p.m., Black Box Theatre


October 2 - Friday Fanfare Concert: Choral Ensembles, 7:30 p.m., Lightsey Chapel




October 9 - Friday Fanfare Concert: Wind Ensemble, 7:30 p.m., Lightsey Chapel

October 10 - USAF Band and Singing Sergeants, 7:30 p.m., Lightsey Chapel


October 25 - Sunday Spotlight Series: Jazz Band, 3 p.m., Lightsey Chapel

November 12 - CSU Lyric Theater production, 7:30 p.m., Lightsey Chapel



November 15 - CSU Lyric Theater production, 3 p.m., Lightsey Chapel

December 6 - Sunday Spotlight Series: Choral Christmas Concert, 3 p.m., Lightsey Chapel

December 7 - Instrumental Chamber Ensembles concert, 7:30 p.m., Lightsey Chapel

December 18 - Concert Singers Christmas Carols in the Round – 6 p.m., Science Building Rotunda

A PUBLICATION OF CHARLESTON SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY CSU magazine 1A PUBLICATION OF CHARLESTON SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY CSU magazine 1

DearFriendsThis is a time of excitement in the life of the University. We will recognize the founding classes

of 1967 through 1969 as they celebrate their 40th Anniversary during Homecoming festivities

October 23 – 25, 2009. Please join us for this jubilant time and the football game between CSU

and Liberty on Saturday, October 24, at 1:30 p.m.

Sissy and I are celebrating our 25th Anniversary at CSU. What an honor it has been to lead this

great University from college to university status! The fall CSU magazine will highlight some interesting

stories and significant milestones during these years.

These are challenging times, but our vision, “To be a Christian university nationally recognized for

integrating faith in learning, leading and serving,” provides a solid foundation as we continue to equip

our students with an excellent faith-based education. The heartfelt testimony given by Meghan Gerrity,

our SGA Vice President, at spring commencement confirms that Charleston Southern provides an

excellent education and makes a positive impact on the lives of our students. Meghan shared, “Let us

not forget that we have been prepared as graduates and our lives have been transformed by the power

of Jesus Christ.” During the summer our incoming freshmen read the student edition of Lee Strobel’s

book, The Case for Christ. This reading will give new students insight into the University’s vision.

During spring semester, the CSU family had the opportunity to hear many gifted and inspirational

convocation speakers. These speakers are an integral part of the CSU learning experience, and their

testimonies of faith are often the turning point in students’ lives. We invite you to come back to the

campus and join us for a Wednesday convocation program. Details of upcoming convocations can be

found on our Web site at www.charlestonsouthern.edu.

I trust that after reading this magazine you will be inspired by some of the transformations and

wonderful happenings on campus. Thank you for your continued support of

Charleston Southern University.

Sincerely,

Jairy C. Hunter, Jr.

President

2 CSU magazine A PUBLICATION OF CHARLESTON SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

correction:

about the Cover:

Editorial StaffJan Joslin ’82, Director of Publications

Sherry Atkinson, University Relations Officer

Contributing WritersDoug Dickerson • Blake Freeland • David Weiss ’03

Contributing PhotographersLee Davis ’12 • Doug Dickerson • Sandy Freshman • Franny Garrett ’10

Lori L. Kerch, Specially Me Photography

Heather Koziel ’08 • Rhett Marley ’10 • Tam Odom ’03

CSU Magazine is published three times a year by the Office of University Relations for

alumni and friends of Charleston Southern University.

Address changes should be sent to Juliana Londono, director of operations for advancement,

CSU, P.O. Box 118087, Charleston, SC 29423-8087 or e-mail [email protected].

Senior OfficersDr. Jairy C. Hunter Jr., President

Dr. Jim Colman, Vice President for Academic Affairs

Luke Blackmon, Vice President for Business Affairs

Dr. Richard B. Brewer Jr., ’77, ’96, Vice President for Student Affairs and Athletics

Debbie Williamson, Vice President for Enrollment Management

W. Stovall Witte Jr., Vice President for Advancement

Rusty Bruns, Chief Information Officer

Janet Mims ’82, Associate Vice President for Business Affairs

William L. Ward ’90, Executive Director for Development

Lindsey Walke, Assistant to the President

w w w. c h a r l e s t o n s o u t h e r n . e d u

PUBLISHED BY

One Poston Road, Suite 190, Charleston, SC 29407 | 843.747.0025

www.atlanticpublicationgrp.com

Richard Barry, President

Warren Darby, Vice President of Operations

Bob Durand, Senior Art Director

Ali Lorenzana, Editorial Services

Maggie Barry, Accounting Services

© 2009 Charleston Southern University

magazinevolume 19number 2

A PUBLICATION OF CHARLESTON

SOUTHERN UNIVERSITYCSU

In the Spring 2009 edition of the CSU Magazinea story was published about Col. Joe Tallon, amember of the class of 1969. We would like torecognize the important contributions of StefanRogenmoser of the Summerville Journal Scene tothe story about Col. Tallon, and offer ourapologies to him for the omission.

Lynn Preacher Yeager ’91 BS, ’95MEd, has formed a company with afriend to meet the dietary needs ofher son, Jacob, and other childrenwith special needs. Read the storyabout this determined mom startingon page 8.

Photo by Lori L. Kerch, Specially Me Photography

A PUBLICATION OF CHARLESTON SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY CSU magazine 3

ContentsLEARNING

8 ........... The Cookie MomsterLynn Preacher Yeager’s love for her son leads to successful company

4 ........... Commencement – A Call to Serve

6 ........... MBA Program on the Rise

6 ........... SIFE Team Wins at Regionals

7 ........... Freshman Reading AssignmentReinforces Foundational Beliefs

7 ........... Athletic Training Staff Earns Top Award

LEADING

14 ........... A Greater PurposeEdwin Squirewell Awarded Graduate Fellowship

20 ........... From Laid Out to Lead OffGod Gives Scotty Radabaugh Passion to Play Again

18 ........... Executive Council Board of Visitors

22 ........... Student-Athletes Honored at 43rd Annual Banquet

23 ........... Nursing Graduate Inspired by Adversity

24 ........... 12th Annual Scholarship Luncheon

SERVING

28 ........... God Wants Her in PrisonAbigail Timmons’ Career PathLeads Her to the Unexpected

26 ........... Lives Transformed on Baltimore Spring Break Trip

27 ........... Miracle League Ministry a Hit

27 ........... 2009 Business Grads Leaving a Legacy

SCHOOL TIES

32 ........... Class Notes

38 ........... Summey Addresses the Class of 2009

38 ........... Recognizing Class of 2009

40 ........... Founding Classes to be Honored at Homecoming 2009

42 ........... 2009 Alumni Award Winners Honored

44 ........... 2010 Alumni Directory Project Under Way

44 ........... Historical Marker Unveiled on Campus

45 ........... Phonathon 2009 Provided Needed Aid

45 ........... Following the Bucs Through New Media

46 ........... ABCs of CSU

48 ........... Memorials


L E A R N I N G

T housands of family and friends werein attendance to watch 313 loved onesand friends receive their undergraduate

and graduate degrees May 9 at the NorthCharleston Coliseum.

Tom Hood, president and CEO of FirstFinancial Holding, Inc., delivered thecommencement speech. Hood has long-standing ties to the local community as aservant-leader. Hood has served as pastchairman of the Charleston Metro Chamberof Commerce; and volunteer mentor andtutor for the HOSTS program (Help OneStudent To Succeed).

Hood said he has long been an admirerof Charleston Southern and commended thegraduates for their many successes. “Havinghad many graduates of Charleston Southernjoin our companies, I know that the graduatesand alumni of this great University are highlyvalued in business and industry and as leadersin their communities.”

Hood told the graduates they wereinheriting a dangerous and broken world citinga global financial system in turmoil, skyrocket-ing unemployment, and loss of confidence inleadership at all levels of our nation and world.“Charleston Southern students, more than anyother time in our history, we need you, thegraduating class of 2009. We need yourimagination, your hope, your optimism, yourcommitment, your leadership, and most of allyour faith – your dreams.”

For Edwin Squirewell, the journey fromthe small rural town of Ridgeway, S.C., anda college degree is a first for his family. A bio-chemistry major, Squirewell has been awardedthe Dean’s Merit Graduate Fellowship at theUniversity of Iowa where he will receive anannual stipend of $25,000, plus tuition, fringeand fees. Squirewell will spend the next fiveyears working toward a PhD. His concentra-tion will include research in the strategies ofdrug recovery, analysis and design. As he pre-pares for the next phase of his life, Squirewelladds, “I’ve been given so many opportunitiesto better myself; it’s impossible to doubt thatGod has a greater purpose for me.”

An honorary doctor of laws degree wasconferred upon Tom Hood for his outstandingservice to the community. Johnny E. Ward ofMoncks Corner received an honorary doctor ofpublic service degree. As past chairman of theboard of trustees, Ward has generously devotedhis time and resources to the betterment of theUniversity. He currently serves as a member ofthe Board of Visitors. The distinguished serviceaward was presented to Freda Turner Ott. TheOtt family has been actively involved with theUniversity for many years serving on theWomen’s Council, Board of Visitors andBuccaneer Club.

Kelly Nicole Laffey of Goose Creek wasthe recipient of The Myrtle E. Hamrick Awardwhich is given to the graduate who exempli-fies the highest virtues of womanhood;Quanekqua T. Russell received The John A.Barry Scholar Award which is presented to thegraduate who evidences the most promise forfuture scholarship; Dionne Gibson receivedThe Hunter Cup which is presented to thegraduate whose character, scholarship andathletic ability are deemed outstanding; andClairisa Ellen Davis received the CarolynKillen Hunter Outstanding Christian TeacherEndowed Scholarship and Award.

Laffey knows firsthand about the caringcapacity of nurses. Her oldest son was bornpremature and spent several months in theNeonatal Intensive Care Unit being nursed tohealth. It was during this time that her callingbecame clear. “My son is alive today because oftalented health care professionals, more so the

Commencement – ACall to Serveby Doug Dickerson

Freda Ott received the DistinguishedService Award for her longtime support ofthe University from President Jairy Hunter.Photo by Sherry Atkinson


L E A R N I N G

nurses who tended to him. That inspiration hasseen her through the nursing program and is adriving force behind the personal time that shededicates to serving others. She has given ofher time at places like the Ronald McDonaldHouse, working at the soup kitchen at CrisisMinistries and volunteering at SpecialOlympics. Laffey now plans to work as acritical care nurse.

Danielle Alexander, a psychology majorfrom Fayetteville, Ga., did something fewgraduates can boast of – carrying a perfect 4.0grade point average through all four years.Alexander plans to begin work on her master’sdegree at the University of Georgia in the fall.“Charleston Southern is like family. You endup with many moms and dad. I will reallymiss CSU,” she said.

Carolena Stemler, a double major in com-munication and Spanish from Concord, N.C.,took an active role in campus life. Serving aschair of the commuter affairs committee in theStudent Government Association was one ofher passions. She encouraged commuters toget involved. “Be proactive about finding outwhat’s going on and make friends: stayinvolved,” she said.

Stemler has come a long way from anorphanage in Ecuador where she was aban-doned on a bus. Stemler’s adoptive mother,Barbara Stemler, said, “When we were toldwe could adopt her, the orphanage said shewas 8 months old.”

When looking for a college, Stemler wasimpressed with the small, family atmosphereat CSU. “You’re not a number, you always hearthat, but at CSU it’s really true,” she said. “Oneof my closest friends was my department chair,Dr. Pam Peek. This type of relationship is whatis special at CSU.”

Stemler recently completed an internshipat Channel 5 news and is ready for whatevercomes next. “When opportunity knocks, I’llbe able to take it, no matter what it is.”

“Each of us graduating this year has differ-ent stories and experiences that have led to thispoint in our lives,” said Meghan Gerrity, vicepresident of the student body, who gave thesenior class statement. “We are all grateful forthose who helped us get to this point. Let usnot forget that we have been prepared asgraduates and our lives have been transformedby the power of Jesus Christ. Our degrees willenable us to not only get a job in the real worldbut to also influence the change it needs.”

“HAVING HAD MANYGRADUATES OFCHARLESTONSOUTHERN JOIN OURCOMPANIES, I KNOWTHAT THE GRADUATESAND ALUMNI OF THISGREAT UNIVERSITY AREHIGHLY VALUED INBUSINESS ANDINDUSTRY AND ASLEADERS IN THEIRCOMMUNITIES.”

– Tom Hood, president and CEOof First Financial Holding, Inc.

Thomas Hood, president and CEO of

First Financial Holdings, Inc., delivered

the commencement address and

received an honorary doctorate.

Photo by Sherry AtkinsonDr. Jim Colman, vice president for academicaffairs, hoods honorary doctorate recipientJohnny Ward. Photo by Sherry Atkinson

Danielle Alexander earned a perfect 4.0 inher four years at CSU. Photo by Tam Odom


L E A R N I N G

T he MBA program continues to earnaccolades as the growth and success ofthe program increases. The Charlotte

Business Journal listed in its March 13 editionthe Top 25 MBA programs in the Carolinasaccording to enrollment numbers. CharlestonSouthern ranked number 10 in the top 25, upone from the previous year.

With the recent formation of the GraduateServices Center, the services CSU offers arenow streamlined for greater efficiency.“Processing of inquiries about the university’sgraduate programs as well as the processing ofapplications to the various graduate programsis faster now. In addition, current graduatestudents who need help with issues such asregistration, financial aid, online courses, etc.can be helped in a more timely and accuratemanner,” said Dr. Bill Bowers, director of theGraduate Services Center.

Charleston Southern’s ranking in theCharlotte Business Journal is reflective ofimpressive growth in the program over thepast few years. The MBA program has tripledin size in the last six years. Enrollment hasgrown from less than 100 students in 2002 tomore than 320 today. In terms of present

enrollment, the CSU MBA programis now the second largest programin the state only behind the pro-gram at the University of SouthCarolina.

Bowers credits the flexibility ofthe program and the services theGraduate Services Center pro-vides as a factor for the pro-gram’s success. “Providing avery high level of personalservice to applicants and stu-dents together with the addi-tion of online courses havebeen the keys to this growth.Students need the flexibilityand convenience that our optional onlinecourses offer. Many current students recom-mend Charleston Southern to their friends,neighbors, and co-workers, so much of ourgrowth can be attributed to this positive wordof mouth,” he said.

Bowers said, “Charleston Southern setsitself apart from most MBA programs becausewe seek to instill innovative thinking andspark creative insights that are inspired frombiblical principles,” he said.

MBA Program on the Rise By Doug Dickerson

T he CSU Students In Free Enterprise(SIFE) team was named Rookie of theYear at the SIFE USA Regional

Competition recently in Charlotte.“The Charleston Southern team accomplished

a lot in its first year; they gave an outstandingpresentation at the regional competition andlooks forward to next year’s competition,” saidDr. David Houghton, the team’s faculty advisorand Sam Walton Fellow.

The SIFE team is one of more than 500SIFE programs in the United States.Participating students use business conceptsto develop community outreach projects thatimprove the quality of life and standard ofliving for people in need.

The SIFE team organized several projectsin the Charleston area, including aCommodity Trading Floor simulation inwhich area high school students becamebuyers and sellers of oil and developed adeeper understanding of market economics.

The culmination of the SIFE program is anannual series of competitions that provides aforum for teams to present the results of theirprojects, and to be evaluated by businessleaders serving as judges. Teams competefirst at the regional and national levels, thenat the international level when the nationalchampion teams from each country meet atthe SIFE World Cup.

SIFE Team Wins at Regionals

SIFE leader Logan Bennett presents the Rookie of the YearAward to President Jairy Hunter in Convocation.

The graduate program enrollment team:Ashley Millwood (seated), Christi Coghill,Alison Harrison and Dr. Bill Bowers. Photo by Doug Dickerson


L E A R N I N G

A t the South Carolina Athletic Trainers’Association (SCATA) AnnualSymposium, Charleston Southern was

awarded the College and University AthleticTraining Staff of the Year.

The staff is composed of seven certifiedathletic trainers: head athletic trainer, TobyHarkins; associate athletic trainer, Brad Drake;assistant athletic trainers, Tadd Turnquist,Tuesday Patterson, and Erin Weaver; internathletic trainer, Cassie Kavanaugh; and ATEPcurriculum director, Kelly Harkins.

Each staff member is state certified and anactive member of the National AthleticTrainers’ Association. Athletic Trainers areunique health care professionals who special-ize in the prevention, assessment, treatmentand rehabilitation of injuries and illnesses.Certified athletic trainers are required to holda bachelor’s degree in athletic training andpass a national certification exam. They haveto meet the requirements set by state legisla-tion, and they practice under the direction ofa physician.

Athletic Training Staff Earns Top Award

T his summer’s reading assignment forentering freshmen was the student edi-tion of The Case for Christ by Lee

Strobel. As an atheist, Stroble viewedChristianity as “nothing but superstition andwishful thinking” until his wife, Leslie,announced she had become a Christian. Thepositive changes in Leslie’s life intrigued andmotivated Strobel, a Harvard law graduateand legal editor of the Chicago Tribune. Foralmost two years, he committed himself toresearching the case for and against Christand chronicled his evidence and the outcomein the book, The Case for Christ.

According to Dr. Rick Brewer, vice presi-dent for planning and student affairs, recentstudies from the Barna Group reveal that lessthan one-half percent of young people todayhave a Christian worldview. “The foundationfor understanding Christian worldview andfaith integration is understanding who Jesusis,” said Brewer. “This book will help studentswho may not come with a good context andunderstanding of Christ and Christianity,

...and for others, it will reinforce what theyalready believe.”

For incoming freshmen the book will bethe focal point in New Student Orientation,freshman seminar classes and also in the resi-dence halls’ Bible studies. It’s not unusual forschools to require summer reading, but themodel that will be used at CSU offers theopportunity to engage not only incoming stu-dents, but all resident students and campusleadership including faculty, staff and residen-tial staff.

Campus Minister Clark Carter is creatingonline training for residence halls staff, engagingthem in dialog as they walk through the booktogether. Also, lunchtime book discussions willbe offered several times during the summer andwill be available for faculty and staff.

Then on Nov. 11, Strobel, currently ateaching pastor at Saddleback ValleyCommunity Church, will be on campus tospeak at convocation and will spend the dayin a variety of seminars.

Freshman Reading Assignment Reinforces Foundational Beliefs

By Sherry Atkinson

Photo by Sherry Atkinson

LEARNINGLEARNING

8 CSU magazine A PUBLICATION OF CHARLESTON SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY8 CSU magazine A PUBLICATION OF CHARLESTON SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY8 CSU magazine A PUBLICATION OF CHARLESTON SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

Photos by Lori L. Kerch,

Specially Me Photography

BY SHERRY ATKINSON

WHEN LIFE BUMPS LYNN PREACHER YEAGER,SHE PLANTS HER FEET AND STANDS HERGROUND. TO SAY SHE IS DETERMINED IS ANUNDERSTATEMENT, ESPECIALLY WHEN ITCOMES TO HER CHILD.

Life lined up for Lynn. She earned both her bachelor’s

degree in elementary education in 1991 and her

master’s in education administration in 1995 from

CSU. In 2002 she married Tim, the man of her

dreams, and in November 2003, she gave birth to

a beautiful baby boy, Jacob.

Soon after Jacob was born the family

relocated to Jacksonville, Fla., where Tim

could be closer to his company’s home base.

Lynn began teaching English to middle

school children in a small Catholic

school, and the family settled into their

new home.


LEARNING


RED FLAGS

Jacob was a happy, loving baby. However, as he grewolder, the Yeagers became concerned about his languageskills. “It wasn’t so much what Jacob did that set off thered flags; it was what he didn’t do. He didn’t start talkinglike other children develop language; he babbled butnever really got past that,” remembers Lynn. She recallsstanding behind Jacob clapping as loudly as she could,screaming his name, but getting no response from him.They sought out an audiologist for hearing testingand found that Jacob’s hearing was normal. It was theaudiologist who first suggested his language delay couldbe a symptom of autism.

Lynn immediately contacted the only developmentalpediatrician in Jacksonville and added her name to thesix-month waiting list. Prior to the appointment, Lynnresearched everywhere she could to disprove that herbaby had autism. “I basically spent six months trying toconvince myself that it wasn’t autism,” admits Lynn.

However, looking back, there was evidence of thedisorder. “He would spin objects for hours and make anincredible game out of it and laugh and play,” said Lynn.“He didn’t play with his toys the way other kids did. Hewould turn a car over and play with the wheels butwouldn’t necessarily play cars.”

Six months later, at Jacob’s first appointment, thephysician performed a battery of diagnostic tests.Lynn vividly remembers the return office visit. “We wentback fully expecting the pediatrician to say that he hadautistic tendencies, but he would grow out of them; butthat wasn’t what we got. We got moderate to severeinfantile autism.”

AN UNFAMILIAR WORLD

“The diagnosis threw us into an unfamiliar world –therapies we were not familiar with, biomedical issues,allergy issues.” But the Yeagers wasted no time. Within amonth, Jacob was enrolled in a preschool for childrenwith disabilities and began speech, occupational andbehavioral therapies. Meanwhile, Lynn continued tosearch out new therapies that might work for him.

Through research, Lynn discovered a DAN! (DefeatAutism Now) doctor located in Jacksonville, and Jacobsoon began receiving medical care with Dr. Julie Buckley.Testing revealed that Jacob had high levels of metals inhis blood and major food allergies.

Lynn gained greater insight into the food allergiesand biomedical intervention for children with autism.She started Jacob on a special diet, eliminating gluten(wheat) and casein (dairy) products. According toYeager, there is a strong correlation between foodallergies and autism. “Because of the food allergieseverything he eats is organic; it has to be homemade.There is no trip through the drivethrough when I’msqueezed for time,” said Lynn.

Lynn relentlessly pursues every possible avenueavailable. “It’s really trial and error, and we try to leave nostone unturned. There have been some therapies thathave not worked for us, so we stopped them, and thenthere have been others that have been wonderful,” saidLynn. She pauses. “You look at yourself as a warrior; youjust keep going and keep trying and fighting to find thethings that are going to work,” she said. “God entrustedthis incredible child to me, and I need to be able to fullygive back to that gift.”

“GOD ENTRUSTEDTHIS INCREDIBLE

CHILD TO ME, ANDI NEED TO BE ABLE

TO FULLY GIVE BACKTO THAT GIFT.”

Lynn and business partner JaniceCopley prepare the cookie dough

themselves in a gluten-freefacility in Jacksonville. However,

family members are ready tohelp when the two are up

against deadlines.


LEARNING

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A BUSINESS BORN OUT OF DESPERATION

One morning Lynn voiced her frustration about tryingto find reinforcers (motivational things to encourageJacob during therapy) to fellow teacher Janice Copley.Janice suggested they come up with some of their owngluten-free and casein-free cookie recipes. The twoteachers donned their aprons and began experimentingwith different recipes. Their more-than-willing studentstested 19 chocolate chip cookies rating them on texture,taste and visual appeal. The results were tallied, and theteachers took the best ratings and combined the recipesto create a delicious chocolate chip cookie.

“About this time, we had the idea that we couldturn this into a business and help other moms who arestruggling with the same thing. There was just nothing

on the market that could pass for a real cookie,” saidLynn. In late spring 2008, Lynn contacted a friend at asmall organic grocery store about carrying the frozencookie dough. When the store agreed, the moms wentinto action, working on recipes, giving out samples, andgetting the word out at support meetings. The cookiessold well, and Cookie Momsters, Inc. was in business.

Soon after, the cookies were discovered by WholeFoods Market that was opening a store in Jacksonville,and the Cookie Momsters seized the opportunity. “Thiswhole business has been divine intervention, because itjust landed in our laps,” said Lynn. We interviewed withWhole Foods, took samples, and within 10 days wewent through all the paperwork and were in the store forthe opening. We were told later that that was reallyunheard of, that there are vendors who have waited 10years to get into Whole Foods.”

“Everything Jacobdoes is 10 times harderthan for a typical child.

Having autism is likebeing in a room where

you have a movie comingat you at 100 miles anhour playing on every

wall in the room, havingto balance on a ball while

reciting the Preamble ofthe Constitution and

write a letter to your bestfriend all at the same

time. Then add a strobelight flickering the whole

time. Now try to filter outall the extrasensory input

to do one task. That’swhat I have to keep inmind that Jacob does

every single day.”

– Lynn Yeager

According to theAutistic Society of

America, with 1 in 150births, autism is the

fastest-growing developmental

disability.


“IT’S VERY INTERESTING THATSHE IS THE MATHTEACHER, ANDI’M THE ENGLISHTEACHER BECAUSEI CAN’T BALANCEA CHECKBOOK ANDSHE CAN’T SPEAKPUBLICALLY. SO IT’SA PARTNERSHIPMADE IN HEAVEN.”

The two are working to add 15 Whole Food stores inFlorida to the list of stores which will carry their cookiedough which comes in three flavors – sugar, chocolatechip, and double chocolate. The three cookie doughrecipes are patented as well as any future flavors andvarieties. Other flavors are in the works including snicker-doodle and chocolate mint. The partners are also talkingwith a major grocery chain in Jacksonville about carryingthe cookies and have even set their sites on possiblyexpanding the business “up north” to the Charleston area.

With the business expanding, Lynn and Janice arenot returning to teaching next year. They are committedto working the business full time. However, Lynn’s firstgoal is working with Jacob, helping him overcomeobstacles through school, therapy sessions, and doctorappointments. She will have a more scheduled routinewhich means working cookie demos and supportgroups while Janice’s more flexible routine will includedelivering and traveling.

Lynn believes that it is no accident that these twobusiness partners complement each other in their abilitiesand flexibility. “This business was born out of desperation.I thank God for giving me the tools to be able to do thisand to give me the business partner who is able to pick upwhere I can’t,” said Lynn. “It’s very interesting that she isthe math teacher, and I’m the English teacher because Ican’t balance a checkbook and she can’t speak publically.So it’s a partnership made in heaven.”

SUPPORTLynn comes to the table as a mother of an autistic

child and as a teacher. She sees her education evolving asthe business expands and finds herself doing interviews,writing magazine articles and speaking to groups.

Her most rewarding experiences have been meetingother mothers in circumstances similar to her own. “It’samazing the strength and the camaraderie we share,”said Lynn. “You’re able to cut through all the social stuffand develop this true friendship based on the person.You see these parents who are all fighting for the rightsof their children, and you feel an automatic connectionto them.”

Lynn is quick to name her father, Hugh Preacher, astheir biggest supporter. He not only supports the familyemotionally he also supports Lynn’s decision to go fulltime in the business. He understands the family’scommitment to do anything they can to ensure Jacobreceives any treatment that is beneficial and has helpedout financially. According to Lynn, most parents haveto “foot” the bill as most insurances will not covertherapies. For the Yeagers, the bill can reach more than$50,000 per year.

Lynn shares that the divorce rate for parents ofautistic children is 85 percent. The Yeagers are beatingthe statistic by offering each other mutual respect andsupport. Time together is important, and they havefound that enjoying time alone makes them betterparents. But it is the promise they have made that isparamount. “We have made a vow to each other and toGod to do whatever it takes to save our child and to keepour marriage intact,” said Lynn.

So when the day is done and the cookies are made,appointments have been kept, therapies have beenperformed, there is a moment to reflect: “I would nothave chosen this journey. Autism is heartbreaking. ButI have learned to celebrate small successes andprogress...and I have learned how to truly live anauthentic life.”

GREATERPURPOSE

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aLEADING

S q u i r e w e l l A w a r d e d G r a d u a t e F e l l o w s h i p

BY DOUG DICKERSON


LEADING

“THE LAST FOURYEARS HAVE BEEN

THE BEST YEARSOF MY LIFE,”

SAYS RECENTGRAD EDWINSQUIREWELL.

One of his professors, Dr. Erin Burke, recalls the firsttime she met Squirewell. “When I first saw Edwin twoyears ago, I saw nothing but a bright guy with a lot ofpotential,” she said. “When Edwin first started doingresearch with me, he needed a lot of training andencouragement, but he proved to be a very quick study,learning the experimental design and the uses of severaladvanced biochemical techniques in record time. I haveno doubt that Edwin will be very successful in his futureendeavors, and I look forward to the day when I can callhim one of my colleagues.”

Squirewell leaves Charleston Southern prepared forthe new challenges he faces. He explains, “I am awarethat not many Christians dwell in my field of science,where studies of evolution eclipse the power of creationand everything has a ‘logical explanation.’ My experienceat Charleston Southern has taught me that my job as aChristian is to tell the Gospel of Jesus Christ, though it’snot my job to convict their hearts. I cannot boast aboutmy accomplishments because everything I have has beengiven freely from God. In return, I ask Him to write Hiscommandments in my heart and help me keep my mindon Him while I simultaneously pursue my career at theUniversity of Iowa.”

As he prepares to enter the next phase of his life,Squirewell says, “I now realize I am not in charge of mylife.” With appreciation for what transpired at CharlestonSouthern, he looks to the future, “I’ve been given somany opportunities to better myself, it’s impossible todoubt that God has a greater purpose for me.”

quirewell was born and raised in thesmall rural town of Ridgeway, justnorth of Columbia. Along with hisbrother, he is the first generation of theSquirewell family to attend college.

Reflecting on his time at CharlestonSouthern, Squirewell says he is

convinced CSU is the place God wanted him. “It’s nocoincidence that I arrived at Charleston Southern and feltequipped by God to endure any educational challengesand personal dilemmas. I’ve developed a close relationshipwith many professors and am prepared to return tosociety the knowledge gained from disciplined study.”

Squirewell not only embraced the academicchallenges he was presented with but excelled in theprocess. A biochemistry major, Squirewell has beenawarded the Dean’s Merit Graduate Fellowship at theUniversity of Iowa where he will receive an annualstipend of $25,000, plus tuition, fringe, and fees. Basedon current tuition, this offer is valued at approximately$160,000 over the next five years to work toward a PhD.Squirewell accepted the offer and will study and researchthe strategies of drug discovery, analysis and design.

Inspired by what has happened to him while atCharleston Southern, Squirewell says, “I cannot deny thatmy Lord has plans for me. Five months ago I didn’t knowwhat I wanted to do after graduation. My current plans areto work in the industry as a pharmaceutical developmentscientist dedicated to research designed to improve thequality of medication, and by extension, the quality ofhuman life. The human body is an amazing creation. Weare all created in God’s image and need to appreciate Hisgreatest work by living righteous, healthy lives.”

S

WHEN EDWIN FIRST STARTED DOING RESEARCH WITH ME,HE NEEDED A LOT OF TRAINING AND ENCOURAGEMENT, BUT

HE PROVED TO BE A VERY QUICK STUDY, LEARNING THEEXPERIMENTAL DESIGN AND THE USES OF SEVERAL

ADVANCED BIOCHEMICAL TECHNIQUES IN RECORD TIME.I HAVE NO DOUBT THAT EDWIN WILL BE VERY SUCCESSFUL

IN HIS FUTURE ENDEAVORS, AND I LOOK FORWARD TO THE DAY WHEN I CAN CALL HIM ONE OF

MY COLLEAGUES.

– DR. ERIN BURKE


“I CANNOT DENYTHAT MY LORDHAS PLANS FORME. FIVE MONTHSAGO I DIDN’TKNOW WHAT IWANTED TO DOAFTER GRADUA-TION. MY CURRENTPLANS ARE TOWORK IN THEINDUSTRY AS APHARMACEUTICALDEVELOPMENTSCIENTISTDEDICATEDTO RESEARCHDESIGNED TOIMPROVE THEQUALITY OFMEDICATION, ANDBY EXTENSION,THE QUALITY OFHUMAN LIFE. THEHUMAN BODY ISAN AMAZINGCREATION. WEARE ALL CREATEDIN GOD’S IMAGEAND NEED TOAPPRECIATEHIS GREATESTWORK BY LIVINGRIGHTEOUS,HEALTHY LIVES.”


L E A D I N G


Members of the Executive Council of the Board of Visitors are an influential group who benefitCharleston Southern in many ways. They refer prospective students, assist students in locating

internships and permanent employment, develop financial resources, identify prospective donors and donate at the level of $5,000 per year for three years.

Executive Council members also dine with a dean of one of the University’s colleges or schools and other administrators twice a year, interact with family members, speak to student groups

and serve on discussion panels.Some of the Executive Council members are highlighted here.

Additional members will be featured in future magazines.

How does your company serve the community?

Our firm serves the community through serving on Boards of various

community activities. In addition, we support their activities through

volunteering and making financial contributions.

Why do you support student scholarships at Charleston Southern University?

I support student scholarships because it is important to provide

opportunities for students to receive a solid Christian education.

EXECUTIVE COUNCILBOARDOFVISITORS

R.Jason CaskeyShareholder, Elliott Davis, LLC, Member, CSU Board of Trustees

BS, Business, Administration, University of South Carolina


L E A D I N G



Williams Tax Services, Inc. offers tax planning, financial statements,

personal home budgeting, business plans, forming corporation, assisting

with audits, offers & compromise and planning retirement.

Why do you support student scholarships at Charleston Southern University?

We firmly believe it is vital to get the youth involved in education

and to invest in them to become productive citizens. Because of my

education at CSU, I am able to employ all three of my children

and one grandchild with the hopes after I am gone, my

business will continue to thrive.

Mary F.D. WilliamsPresident and CEO, Williams Tax Service, Inc.

BS, Accounting, Charleston Southern University, 1981


We hire good people and give them an opportuni-

ty in a creative environment to become all they can

be in their respective careers.

Why do you support student scholarships at Charleston Southern University? .

It is an easy decision to get on board to support

CSU as you are doing things right. What a great way

to get your degree; a great education in a wonderful

Christian environment!

Joe LandPresident, Comela Investments

BS, Marketing, University of South Carolina


LEADING

LAID UTLEAD FF

BY BLAKE FREELAND

Photos provided by CSU sports information

fromto


F or most people a debilitating back injury wouldsignal the end of an athletic career, and divingheadfirst after a pair of back surgeries would be

out of the question. It is pretty easy to see why sophomoreScotty Radabaugh is not like most people.

In his final high school game at James Island,Radabaugh tried to turn a double play. As he jumped torelay the throw, the runner sliding into second clippedhis legs, sending him crashing to the dirt. The fall brokea facet joint in the L5 region of his back and caused aherniated disk.

The pain was so severe that it forced Radabaugh tocontort his body, eventually causing his spine to curveinto almost a J shape. Dr. Blake Dennis, Radabaugh’sorthopedic surgeon, wanted todo surgery immediately. InJune 2006, just before the startof his freshman year atCharleston Southern, surgeonsfused his vertebrae together,using a bone graft from hiship. It took two rods and sixscrews, but it fixed the prob-lem, and Radabaugh felt readyto play in the spring. He hadalready decided to redshirt theseason, so he sat out but didplay on an American Legionteam over the summer.

He finally got to experiencecollegiate baseball in fall 2007,going through drills and off-season practice with the team.Just before the winter break,the pain started to creep back,forcing Radabaugh to have anMRI. Sure enough, the fusionwas no longer solid, forcing asecond surgery and ending hisseason before it began. Thesecond surgery required sixmonths of healing time.

“I really didn’t see the lightat the end,” said Radabaugh.“Even after the first surgery, Ikind of figured that I wouldhave to take a different role with the team. I tried to helpout however I could, knowing I wanted to be part of theteam. I still wasn’t satisfied because I believe God put thepassion in my heart to play again.”

Anxious to get back on the field after almost twoyears, Radabaugh was cleared to play in January, justbefore the season started for the Bucs. Although hewasn’t in the starting lineup, he did see action in the firstgame of the year, getting a pinch hit at bat with two outsin the bottom of the ninth inning.

Immediately, Radabaugh showed signs of what was tocome for the CSU faithful as he grounded a ball to theshortstop, diving in headfirst to beat it out for a base hit,and his first collegiate RBI.

Though it didn’t win the game for CSU, it did send amessage to anyone who would listen.

“All I felt was just relief that I could finally do what Iloved again,” said Radabaugh. “I know I am living onGod-given time, so I try to play as hard and as honorableas I can while I am still able.”

His decisions on how to live have affected his team-mates and his coaches in numerous ways, on and off thefield. At just 5’8” and 140 pounds he may not be themost gifted athlete, but it could be argued that he has thebiggest heart in America.

“The biggest thing that Scotty brings to our teamis the attitude of playing every day like it is yourlast, because on a couple of occasions, he thought he

had seen his last,” said first-year Head Coach Stuart Lake.“He plays with a tenacity andenthusiasm that you can’tteach and is really invaluableto our team, which is whyhe is our leadoff hitter. Hedeals with more physicalrestraints than most butworks harder to account forthat. He represents what acollege student-athlete is allabout. He has no concerns; heis just playing baseball, andit’s very refreshing.”

At press time Radabaughhad played in 46 of CSU’s 52games including 41 starts ateverything from second baseto the outfield, even serving asthe designated hitter as hecontinues to show that he willdo anything for his teammates.He has been the leadoff manin the order for CSU in 36games and is hitting 300 forthe season.

When CSU took the fieldagainst South Carolina onMarch 4 in the newly openedCarolina Stadium, it was fit-ting that Radabaugh was the

first batter of the game. As fans have come to expect,Radabaugh led off the game with a single to short,diving into the bag to beat the throw.

“That was one of the best baseball experiences thatyou can have,” said Radabaugh. “To play against a teamlike South Carolina in a stadium like that was a greatopportunity.”

Even Radabaugh doesn’t know what the future willhold, but for right now, he plans to continue playingbaseball, while studying business and religion at CSU.After graduating in 2010, he will probably pursue amaster’s degree and eventually hopes to work for thedepartment of natural resources.

I KNOW I AM LIVING ON

GOD-GIVEN TIME,SO I TRY TO

PLAY AS HARD AND AS

HONORABLE AS I CAN

WHILE I AM STILL ABLE.

“HE PLAYS WITHA TENACITY ANDENTHUSIASM THATYOU CAN’T TEACHAND IS REALLYINVALUABLE TO OURTEAM, WHICH ISWHY HE IS OURLEADOFF HITTER.HE DEALS WITHMORE PHYSICALRESTRAINTS THANMOST BUT WORKSHARDER TOACCOUNT FOR THAT.HE REPRESENTSWHAT A COLLEGESTUDENT-ATHLETEIS ALL ABOUT. HEHAS NO CONCERNS;HE IS JUST PLAYINGBASEBALL, AND IT’SVERY REFRESHING.”

– STUART LAKE


L E A D I N G

C harleston Southern athletics depart-ment gathered for the 43rd AnnualSpring Athletic Banquet in April.

The soccer team won the Buc Cup for thesecond year in a row for their attendance atvarious sporting events on campus, while thefootball team took home the Student-AthleteAdvisory Committee’s Team CommunityService Award. Marie Doan, track & field, andAmy Trenkamp, softball, were also given serv-ice awards for their involvement as SAAC rep-resentatives and officers.

Two of the highest honors given were theChristian Leadership awards, given for spiritu-al leadership and athletic ability. BrittanyBolick, soccer, was named the R.L. Wynn

Christian Leadership Award winner, while J.P.Poisson, track & field, earned the MichaelFrost Christian Athlete Award.

The Senior Male Athlete of the Year wasfootball player Jake Killeen, who is second inCSU history for tackles-for-loss, despite play-ing just two seasons for the Bucs. All-every-thing on the track Dionne Gibson was theSenior Female Athlete of the Year, holding ashare of 10 different school records, and earn-ing USTFCCCA All-American honors last yearafter posting the highest finish at the NCAAChampionships of any CSU athlete.

Gibson’s day was not done as she was alsonamed the recipient of the Hunter Cup, anaward named after President Jairy Hunter, which

recognizes an athlete for his or her all-aroundathletic, academic and character performances.

While many coaches provided scripture orinspirational words to the athletes, perhaps thebiggest charge came from CSU alumnus andbaseball coach, Stuart Lake. Lake told thecrowd that much like many of the current ath-letes, when he attended the school it was easyto complain about what they did not have.

“What we did have was friendships,” saidLake. “Those friendships are still there 14years later. I want you all to be proud ofwhere you are from, and once you graduate,come back and support the school, even if itis just coming to the games. It means so muchto see all of the alumni in the stands.”

Student-Athletes Honored at 43rd Annual BanquetBy Blake Freeland

Basketball (Men’s)Sportsmanship – Joel Lamb, Billy Blackmon

Basketball (Women’s)Sportsmanship – Tina DeCarvalhoMVP – Pam Tolbert

Cross Country (Men’s)Sportsmanship – Jesse HuffMVP – Andrew King

Cross Country (Women’s)Sportsmanship – Aundraya CampMVP – Brittany Owens

FootballSportsmanship – Josh WarriorMVP – Gerald Stevenson

Golf (Women’s)Sportsmanship – Katrin RumpfMVP – Olivia Jordan-Higgins

Golf (Men’s)Sportsmanship – Herve GeversMVP – Kelvin Day

SoccerSportsmanship – Alyssa BudrosMVP – Brittany Bolick

SoftballSportsmanship – Elaine EdwardsMVP – Megan Lombard

Tennis (Women’s)Sportsmanship – Andrea SchutteMVP – Olga Makhova

Track and Field (Men’s Indoor)Sportsmanship – Tom LacklandMVP – Cornelius Tyler

Track and Field (Men’s Outdoor)Sportsmanship – Cornelius TylerMVP – Levi Brooks

Track and Field (Women’s Combined)Sportsmanship – Marie DoanMVP – Dionne Gibson

VolleyballSportsmanship – Emily LibertowskiMVP – Amanda Hill

Athletic TrainingNewcomer of the Year – Brittany WilliamsStudent Trainer of the Year – Crystal RishCaptain’s Resolve – Katie Tull, J.W. Myers

CheerleadingCaptain’s Award – Jessie King and Lindsey GreenMost Improved – April CrewsMost Outstanding – April Crews

Individual awards:


L E A D I N G

F or May graduate, Kelly Laffey, the deci-sion to become a nurse was not a hardone. Inspired by nurses who nursed her

son to health, Laffey knows firsthand aboutthe caring capacity of nurses. Her oldest sonwas born premature and spent several monthsin the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. It wasduring this time that her calling became clear.

“My son is alive today because of talentedhealth care professionals, more so the nurseswho tended to him. Watching the nurseswork on a day-to-day basis, nursing my sonto health, was truly inspiring to me, and Iknew at that point that I wanted to give backby providing those skills to someone else inneed,” said Laffey. That inspiration has seenher through the nursing program and is adriving force behind the personal time thatshe dedicates to serving others. She has givenof her time at places like the RonaldMcDonald House, working at the soupkitchen at Crisis Ministries and volunteeringat Special Olympics.

Laffey juggled many responsibilities includ-ing that of wife, mother and student. Supportfrom her family was essential to her success asshe explains, “The love from my husband andfamily has given me the strength and confi-dence to pursue my dream of becoming anurse. They gave me encouragement, guid-ance and inspiration to never give up. I amthankful for my supportive husband whostood by me throughout the years and my twochildren for their endless patience while in

school.” From her strong support system shewas able to attack her studies she says,“...with the level of maturity and commitmentthat ensured my success.”

While support from her family was essen-tial to her success, Laffey readily acknowl-edges her faith in God that saw her through.“Anything is possible with God,” she explains,“I completely released myself to His will. Heguided me through every rough road and try-ing time. I had total faith He would see me

through whatever obstacle I would comeacross. I am convinced these tests onlystrengthened my character and assisted withmy preparation for the nursing profession.”

Laffey plans to work as a critical care nurse.“I find great comfort in providing nursing careto those who are very sick during a vulnerabletime in their life,” she said. Laffey says thenursing instructors at Charleston Southerngave her the encouragement and professionalguidance she needed to succeed.

Nursing Graduate Inspired by AdversityBy Doug Dickerson

President JairyHunter presentsKelly Laffey withThe Myrtle E. HamrickAward which is givento the graduate whoexemplifies the highestvirtues of womanhood.

Photo by Sherry Atkinson.

Kelly Laffey pauses in front of the science building.Photo by Doug Dickerson


L E A D I N G

12TH ANNUALSCHOLARSHIP LUNCHEONBy Jan Josl in

E ach spring, the University hosts a dayfor donors and the students who havebenefited from their generosity to meet.

Donors and students are given a chance tospeak. Here are a few highlights from the day:

“Students – it’s possible in grad school andin your first job to give back.” Peter Copeland’04, Board of Visitors member, missionary,Intracoastal Outreach, Myrtle Beach, S.C.

“I really appreciate the Littlejohn EndowedScholarship – without it I wouldn’t be able tocome to CSU. I didn’t even have enoughmoney for books. Your donations make adifference.” Thomas Spurgeon, sophomore,psychology major, Greenville, S.C.

Recipient of the Whittington family schol-arship: “As a music minor, I live there in yourbuilding. I don’t think you have any idea whatyou donors mean to us. We want a future anddon’t know how to make it happen, but youmake our dreams come true.” Janae Hill,senior, kinesiology major, music minor, N.Augusta, S.C.

“I’ve been blessed to sit at the table withstudents who shared their stories. Students,remember how you’ve benefited and pay it

forward.” Mark Smith, owner and vice presi-dent, McAlister-Smith Funeral Home, Boardof Visitors member, Mt. Pleasant, S.C.

“Hearing the stories this morning, it’s goingto make it easy to write the check next time.”Dan Davis, supervisor, Berekely Countysupervisor, Board of Visitors member,Hanahan, S.C.

LEFT: Mark Smith, Board of Visitors member, visits with Aundraya Camp, arecipient of the Brashier Family Scholarship at the luncheon. Photo by Lee Davis

RIGHT: Peter Copeland, a Board of Visitors member and 2004 alum, speaks atthe scholarship luncheon. Photo by Sherry Atkinson

Click toCONNECT

Life just got a little easier for alumni, friends and donors who give or desire to

give to Charleston Southern University. When visiting the University’s home page,

www.charlestonsouthern.edu, notice the new ALUMNI/GIVING tab.

• Give Now - a way you can securely and easily make a donation online

• Ways to Give- shows all the ways you can make an impact at CSU, from joining the Legacy Society, starting an endowment, giving a funded scholarship or simply giving a small gift to honor a loved one in your life

• Board of Visitors- lists the names of current members, event photos, important dates, joining information and much more.

• Development Officers- meet the team who can help you find the right fit so you can most impact Charleston Southern University students.

WITH THIS FEATURE YOU WILL F IND THE FOLLOWING AND MUCH MORE:

Connect to CareFor additional information about Giving to CSU, contact the advancement office at [email protected] 843-863-7513


S E R V I N G

S ophomore Kayla Sexton of Charlestondescribed her spring break mission tripto Baltimore as “an experience of a life-

time.” Sexton was one of 27 members of aministry team that traveled to Baltimore, Md.,for spring break. This was the second yearthat a team from Charleston Southern haspartnered with Embrace Baltimore – a 2-yearemphasis by the North American MissionBoard of the Southern Baptist Convention.

Not only did their ministry touch the livesof people in Baltimore it was also transforma-tional for the team. Sexton added, “God pro-vided me with a fresh look on life and openednew doors in my heart. The highlight of the

trip was getting baptized and God allowingme to experience His love and mercy whileserving others.”

The team from Charleston Southernworked with The Church on Warren Avenueat Federal Hill. Federal Hill used to be a blue-collar area of Baltimore, but when the millsclosed, the area became rundown. City offi-cials decided to turn Federal Hill and theInner Harbor areas into a tourist attraction.Today, the Federal Hill area is one of the mostexclusive areas to live in.

The Church on Warren Avenue (thenknown as Lee Street Memorial) was a vibrantchurch but over time has dwindled down to

about 40 people, with the average age ofmembership around 70 years old. Armed witha vision to reach their city, the church neededhelp. Clark Carter, campus minister, and hisministry team went into action during theirweek in Baltimore to make a big impact. “Ourstudents got a taste of what it means to be ona mission with God. Our prayer is that theywill not be content with missions being limit-ed to a trip but rather they adopt a missionallifestyle, always seeking to serve and honorGod everyday of their lives,” he said.

The team participated in 23 projects dur-ing their four days of ministry that includedorganizing all of the church’s importantpapers, updating the church’s Web site:http://www.churchonwarrenave.com/, createdflyers for future church events, gave out BabyBaskets with necessities for 13 new mothers,offered a movie night for neighborhood chil-dren, conducted Bible studies, held a prayerwalk for the city, and offered a sidewalk café,to name a few. On the last night 12Charleston Southern students were baptized.

Jaimee LaFave, the director of mobilizationfor Embrace Baltimore, said, “It was great tohave the team from Charleston Southerncome and serve in Baltimore with The Churchon Warren Avenue. They truly represented theEmbrace Baltimore spirit of embracing theregion with the love of Christ in the FederalHill neighborhood.”

Sophomore Matt Davis of Clinton, S.C.,will long remember his time of ministry.“Baltimore was an experience I will never for-get. It was awesome to see God work throughour team and to accomplish His goals. My lifehas been deeply changed by the Baltimoreexperience,” he said.

For Carter, the faithfulness of the team toobey God’s call to go to Baltimore coupledwith the faithfulness of God was a rewardingexperience. “I know that Baltimore has beentouched and changed because our studentswere faithful to accept the call to give theirlives and their spring break to share the loveof Christ,” he said.

You can read more about the mission tripon Carter’s bloghttp://csucampusminister.wordpress.com/.

Lives Transformed on Baltimore Spring Break Trip

By Doug DickersonAll photos by Tam Odom


S E R V I N G

S ophomore Josh Gale says spending timeon Saturdays at the Saul Alexander Parkin Summerville with the Summerville

Miracle League “has become a blessing to allCharleston Southern students and faculty thatare involved.”

Gale is one of many Charleston Southernvolunteers who spend several hours eachSaturday volunteering their time to work withthe Summerville Miracle League. The leagueprovides children with disabilities a place tocome and play baseball with caring counselorswho give of their time to build relationshipsand practice their faith.

Charleston Southern is a sponsor of one ofthe four teams that plays each Saturday. Theteam, appropriately named the Buccaneers, issupported each week with volunteers fromCharleston Southern that include members ofthe football team, Residence Life, SGA, andCampus Crusade for Christ.

“The Summerville ballpark providesnothing but encouragement, joy and love.The schools’ sponsorship and the stu-dents’ assistance gives the children asense of belonging,” said Gale. “The chil-dren have overcome so many obstaclesin these past several weeks and havebeen an encouragement to their bud-dies as well,” he added.

The impact of the ministry to the chil-dren and their families has been meaningfulas Gale relates a comment from one of themothers of a child who plays on theBuccaneer team. “The mother of a little girlsaid to me, ‘Every week when we pass byCharleston Southern on our way to the doctorshe belts out, that’s my school.’ It was at thatpoint that I realized that these children feellike they are not just Buccaneers, but they areCharleston Southern Buccaneers.”

The season ended in May, but the impactfrom the Saturdays with the SummervilleMiracle League will long be remembered. Gale

says he is proud of the way CharlestonSouthern stepped up to the plate and minis-tered to the children and to their families. “Tosee other students besides me giving up theirSaturday morning to serve others, speaks vol-umes about how CSU is building up servantleaders,” he said.

Miracle League Ministry a HitBy Doug Dickerson

S eniors in Dr. Mac Anderson’s NonprofitMarketing class made time for a uniqueproject on their way to graduation. The

class developed a fundraising project that theyhope in time will lead to an endowed scholar-ship for the School of Business.

The project served to provide a nonprofitmarketing experience while helping a non-profit organization achieve its service objec-tives.

Garrett Abel, serving as the spokespersonfor the class, spoke at the graduation lunch-eon. “This is an appropriate time to celebrateour individual commitments,” Abel said. “Ourclass had a goal to start a tradition of givingby business students. We also challenge otheralumni and departments to give.”

The class set an objective to establish atradition of excellence in giving by making aclass gift to the Business School. “We hope

that our project will inspire future graduatingclasses to make class gifts to the BusinessSchool and to become annual donors,” theysaid. The seniors want to have more donorsfrom the Class of 2009 than any other classthis year. To date 27 members of the Class of’09 have contributed.

In an effort to raise more money, the stu-dents offered custom car detailing services inaddition to traditional fundraising efforts.

The seniors far surpassed their goal ofraising $1,000 and were at $2,075 atpress time.

2009 business grads leaving a legacyBy Jan Josl in

Nonprofit Marketing class members present President Hunter with a check at convocation. Pictured are: Garrett Abel,President Jairy Hunter, Shaun Miles, Sarah Stives, Justin Mullinax, Aundraya Camp, Chase Chambers, Logan Bennett,Jameson Wiley. Photo by Sherry Atkinson

Josh Gale assists his buddy Henry O’ Grady at the Summerville Miracle League. Photo by Sandy Freshman

SERVING


Godwantsher in

The road from Manning, S.C., to the corridors of prison as a

Field Director for Prison Fellowship may not have been a part

of Abigail Timmons’ original career path. But for this 2008

graduate, prison is exactly where God wants her.

BY DOUG DICKERSON

prison.


SERVING

At Charleston Southern, Timmons’ view of ministrybegan to take shape. “I would have to say one of thethings that I learned while at CSU was that ministry doesnot start and end inside of a church building. Ministry isnot only done by people who have the title of pastor orpeople who work for a ministry but by everyone in thebody of Christ. Whether you are a nurse, cop, professoror salesperson, we all have ministry opportunities andare called to serve God with our lives,” she said.

Timmons reflected on how her view of prisoners haschanged since she began her ministry with PrisonFellowship. “Television and movies have greatly influ-enced our opinion of prisoners and what it’s like on theinside of a prison,” she explains. “I can honestly say that afew years ago I would have had the same misconceptionsabout prison and the people there. Serving with PrisonFellowship, I have realized that this stereotype is not anaccurate picture of many men and women behind bars.”

Timmons says that the notion that all prisoners areviolent, untrustworthy, and irresponsible, adds to thestereotype many have. “These people are mothers, fathers,sons, and daughters, not just a number on a uniform. Theyhave made mistakes and are paying a price for thosemistakes, and they are just as worthy of Christ’s love andredemption as the family across the street,” she said.

The encounters inside prison have made a powerfulimpact on Timmons’ life. Timmons shares, “Two yearsago, when I first stepped foot inside of the Bible study at

the prison in Ridgeville, I was encouraged to see thedevotion and joy in the faces of those men who knewChrist there. They have hit rock bottom, and understandthe grace and forgiveness that Christ freely offers. Manyof these men meet to pray with each other daily, holdeach other accountable and have a strong love for Godand each other.”

Full-time ministry has taught Timmons many lessonssince graduating. One of the biggest lessons is learning totrust in God’s provision. “I am required to raise my ownfinancial support to cover salary and ministry budgetexpenses. This task has taken me out of my comfort zoneand helped me to learn to trust that God will provide forwhat He has called us to do. If it wasn’t for the donors whosupport me, my role with Prison Fellowship wouldn’t bepossible, and I am grateful for their help.”

“Abigail Timmons represents the best of CSU given hercommitment to lead by serving. She exemplifies theuniversity’s mission and vision as she intentionally inte-grates her faith in Christ with a hurting, needy population.Indeed, her example of excellence in scholarship andservice continues to encourage and challenge members ofthe CSU family,” said Dr. Rick Brewer, vice president forstudent affairs and athletics.

As for Timmons, she continues to follow the path thatGod has placed before her. “I am blessed to be constant-ly reminded of God’s redemption and grace through themission of Prison Fellowship,” she said.

became involved with

Prison Fellowship in

the fall of 2006 following a visit to Charleston Southern by the staff of Prison Fellowship to recruit volunteers. A

campus ministry team was begun, and Timmons served as the student leader. The past few years, students from

Charleston Southern have been actively involved with Prison Fellowship serving in numerous capacities.

Timmons“THESE PEOPLE ARE

MOTHERS, FATHERS,SONS, AND

DAUGHTERS, NOTJUST A NUMBERON A UNIFORM.

THEY HAVE MADEMISTAKES AND AREPAYING A PRICE FOR

THOSE MISTAKES,AND THEY ARE

JUST AS WORTHYOF CHRIST’S LOVEAND REDEMPTION

AS THE FAMILYACROSS THE

STREET.”


“ABIGAIL TIMMONS REPRESENTS THE BEST OF CSU GIVEN HER COMMITMENT TOLEAD BY SERVING. SHE EXEMPLIFIES THE UNIVERSITY’S MISSION AND VISION ASSHE INTENTIONALLY INTEGRATES HER FAITH IN CHRIST WITH A HURTING, NEEDYPOPULATION. INDEED, HER EXAMPLE OF EXCELLENCE IN SCHOLARSHIP AND SERVICECONTINUES TO ENCOURAGE AND CHALLENGE MEMBERS OF THE CSU FAMILY.”

– Dr. Rick Brewer, vice president for student affairs and athletics


S C H O O L T I E S

1969Dr. Wayne Miller, founder and presidentof Cathedral Bible College of MyrtleBeach, S.C., recently announced that thecollege has received a student from India,making this the 30th country representedin the student body over the past 34years. Cathedral Bible College hadstudents from 12 nations among itsstudent body of 250 for academic year2008-2009. Dr. Miller credits hisexperience as part of the first class atCharleston Southern as crucial in hisfounding of Cathedral Bible College in1975. To learn more you can visitwww.cathedralministries.org.

1970Ron DeWitt is the director, divisionmanager of the Truestone, LLCCharleston office which mainly supportsSPAWAR Service Center CharlestonDepartment of Defense Command andControl Programs. He is a member ofthe CSU Board of Visitors.

1973Joe W. King has been named to theMedical University of South CarolinaBoard of Visitors. He is the executivedirector for the Florence CountyEconomic Development Partnership.

Jim Ramsey has been appointedchairman of the Darlington EconomicDevelopment Partnership. Jim ispresident of Diamond Hill Plywood inDarlington and is executive vice presidentof Darlington Veneer Company.

1990Sid Farmer has been named director ofactivities at Mountain Brook Village, aretirement community in Sevierville, Tenn.

1993

Natalie Dunn has been namedexecutive director/CEO for YWCA inSalem, Ore. During a nine year careerwith Wachovia Bank, she was promotednumerous times in the retail servicedivision including a relocation to Salemin 2004. While at Wachovia, Nataliecoordinated various site initiatives aroundleadership development and diversity.

She began her involvement with theYWCA after attending a cultural diversityconference in 2005. She was elected tothe board of directors in December 2007.She served as cochair on the develop-ment committee and was a member ofthe publicity and finance committees.Natalie is an avid golfer and loves spend-ing time with her dogs, A.J. and Tiger.

1997Edna Boroski received her Ph.D. inorganization and management, leadershipspecialization, from Capella University inMarch. She is an instructor and the direc-tor of cooperative education at TridentTechnical College.

Tracy and Donnie Wade announcethe birth of a son, Jonathan Tyler, Sept.29, 2008. He weighed 8 lbs. 11 oz. andwas 22 inches long. Donnie and Tracylive in Chester, S.C., where Donnie is in his second term as Chester County

Classnotes

COMPILED BY JAN JOSLIN ’82

We want to hear from YOU –send us your information aboutyour career, your family andyour CSU memories.IN ORDER FOR YOUR NEWS TO BE PRINTEDIN THE NEXT ISSUE OF THE MAGAZINE,WE NEED TO RECEIVE YOUR INFORMATIONBY SEPT. 15, 2009.

We love to receive photos to accompany your news.Please make sure they are saved in jpeg high resolutionformat (at least 1MB in size).

send news and photos via e-mail to:

[email protected]

or mail to:

Class Notes,CSU University RelationsP.O. Box 118087Charleston, SC 29423-8087

If you need to change your address or know of an alumnus friend whoisn’t receiving the magazine, send the name and address [email protected]

KEEP in TOUCH


S C H O O L T I E S

auditor, and Tracy is a stay-at-homemom. They have three other children:Hannah, 9, Corey, 6, and Allie, 3. They blog at http://ringmasterofthe3ring-circus.blogspot.com.

Thomas Webb has been accepted into theUniversity of South Carolina Law Schoolin Columbia and plans to start classes inthe fall. You can keep in touch withThomas at [email protected].

1999

Edna L. Edwards and Kelvin B.Williams were married Dec. 20, 2008, inSummerville, S.C. Edna is currentlyserving as president of the CSU AlumniAssociation and is a service banker atWachovia Bank, a Wells Fargo Company.The Williams reside in Summerville.

2001Lauren Baxley Jordan and Thomas PercyCulclasure Jr. were married May 9 inCharleston. Thomas attends theCharleston School of Law, and theylive in Charleston.


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2002Tosha Smith and Drew Slice weremarried Feb. 24 on Antigua. Drew is aprofessional performer at DollywoodTheme Park in Pigeon Forge, Tenn.

2003

Helen C. Ham’s daughter, EdenWeltz, celebrated her first birthday March26, 2009, with a party. Helen writes,“After I graduated from CSU, I went onto earn an MAT-English from WinthropUniversity in 2006. I now teachAmerican Literature at YorkComprehensive High School in York,S.C.” Helen and her husband, BriantWeltz, and daughter, Eden, live inRock Hill.

2005

Kimberly Bussinah and StephenCapracotta were married Dec. 13, 2008,in St. James Catholic Church inSavannah, Ga. Kimberly works in theoffice of faith formation for the CatholicDiocese of Savannah, and Stephen is anaerospace engineer employed byGulfstream Aerospace Corporation inSavannah. They live in Pooler, Ga.

Lauren Marie Gibson and David BillyPolk were married Feb. 1 inSummerville, S.C. Lauren is a contractspecialist at Blackbaud. They live inHarleyville, S.C.

2006Stefanie Bowen and Kevin Ridley weremarried April 11 in Simpsonville, S.C.Stefanie teaches social studies atSpearman Elementary School. Theylive in Williamston, S.C .

Harvey Hyman, MBA, completed activeduty enlistment with the Coast Guardand will be attending the University ofSouth Florida in the fall to work towarda Ph.D.

Robin Leigh Matthews and James RayParker Jr. were married April 25 inFlorence, S.C. Robin is the lead therapistfor the S.C. Early Autism Project. Theylive in Scranton, S.C.

Heather Elizabeth Turbeville andMichael Stephen Hodges were marriedMarch 21 in Darlington, S.C. She isemployed by Cornerstone BaptistChurch, and they live in Florence, S.C.

2007LaToya Denise Norman and DerrickLamont Hughes were married March 7in Coronaca, S.C. She works at GELLaboratories, and they live Charleston.

<< CLASS NOTES CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

FOOTBALL

9/5 @ Florida9/12 @ Wofford9/19 @ South Florida9/26 North Greenville

(Youth Football Day)10/3 Savannah State

10/17 @ Gardner-Webb10/24 Liberty (Homecoming)10/31 @ VMI11/7 @ Presbyterian

11/14 Stony Brook11/21 Coastal Carolina

WOMEN’S SOCCER

8/22 Georgia Southern8/28 Alabama State9/1 USC Upstate9/4 vs. Richmond (LU Tournament)9/6 @ Longwood (LU Tournament)9/9 @ The Citadel

9/15 @ S.C. State9/19 Newberry9/22 @ College of Charleston

(Silver Cup Match)9/27 @ Francis Marion10/3 @ Liberty10/5 @ High Point

10/10 Radford10/12 VMI10/16 @ UNC Asheville10/18 @ Presbyterian10/23 @ Coastal Carolina10/29 Winthrop10/31 Gardner-Webb

(Blackbaud Stadium)11/5-8 Big South Championship

(Blackbaud Stadium)

VOLLEYBALL

8/28 vs. Davidson (N.C. State Tournament)8/28 @N.C. State (N.C. State Tournament)8/29 vs. Morgan State (N.C. State Tournament)8/29 vs. Campbell (N.C. State Tournament)

9/1 Savannah State9/4-5 @ Arizona State Tournament (ASU, UTEP, Idaho State)

9/8 @The Citadel9/16 vs. Georgia Southern9/18 vs. Alabama State (S.C. State Tournament)9/18 vs. N.C. Central (S.C. State Tournament)9/19 vs. The Citadel (S.C. State Tournament)9/19 @ S.C. State (S.C. State Tournament)9/22 @ College of Charleston9/26 Presbyterian9/29 Winthrop10/2 @ UNC Asheville

10/10 Radford10/13 @ Coastal Carolina10/16 @ Liberty10/17 @ High Point10/20 Winthrop10/24 @ Presbyterian10/27 Coastal Carolina10/30 Gardner-Webb10/31 UNC Asheville11/3 @ Savannah State11/7 @ Radford

11/13 High Point11/14 Liberty11/19 @ Big South Championships

Men’s and Women’sCross Countryschedules TBA

2009 fall athletic schedulesHome games in Bold • Log onto csusports.com for game times and locations


S C H O O L T I E S


Katie Thomasson Roberts and herhusband, Christopher, announce thebirth of their son, Landon Christopher.He was born Jan. 9, weighed 6 lbs. 6 oz.and was 19 inches long. Katie writes,“We now live in Summerville. I amteaching 7th grade at Dubose MiddleSchool, and my husband, Chris, worksfor Unitherm Inc. Being parents wouldhave to be the best thing we have everexperienced.”

2008April LeMaire Knight is a live worshipartist and freelance painter. She was achapel speaker at Baylor University inWaco, Texas, in April. Her Web site ishttp://worship-artist.com.

Candace M. Martin and her husband,Wes, announce the birth of their secondson, Braylen Isaiah, born Oct. 2, 2008,weighing 8 lbs. 1 oz. and 22 inches long.Braylen was welcomed by his big brother,Ryan, age 5. Candace is enjoying thepleasure of being a stay-at-home mom,and the family is currently residing inNorth Charleston.

2009Lebanaye S. Butler, MEd, and Joey J.Smalls were married March 7 inCharleston. She is employed at MinnieHughs Elementary School, and they livein Ravenel, S.C.

Baby Bucs!

A new section will debut in the Fall 2009 CSUMagazine, the Baby Buc page. If you are expecting a child or havea child under the age of 2, please let us know by contacting DavidWeiss at [email protected], and we will send you a CSU creeperfor your Baby Buc! The shirt is free of charge – all we ask in returnis a photo of your Baby Buc for the magazine!

pictured: Cameron Weiss, CSU Freshman class of 2027, son of David ’03 and Stephanie Weiss,

Calling All

Faith. Education. Vision. Ambition. Excellence.

At Charleston Southern University you can help preserve the

essence of your beliefs long after your worldly possessions

have faded. You have the opportunity to contribute to

academic excellence in a Christian environment and

help generations develop the values that

defined who you were.

For more information on the Legacy Society contact:Lili Gresham at 843-863-7517 or e-mail [email protected] the Legacy Society Web site at

www.charlestonsouthern.edu/development/legacy.asp

How do you pass onyour values?


S C H O O L T I E S

RecognizingClass of 2009

T he Alumni Association hosted its annualgraduation luncheon May 8. Keynotespeaker was The Honorable Keith

Summey ’69, mayor of the City of NorthCharleston. Summey said he started his col-lege career on academic probation. He hadn’tplanned on attending college, and the newBaptist College (now CSU) took a chance onhim. Summey’s girlfriend, Deborah Crosby’70, said, “You’re not going to college?Undoubtedly, you’re not planning onmarrying me then.”

Summey and his classmates from the classof 1969, the first four-year class at the college,will celebrate their 40th reunion this fall.And, Summey added, “I’ll celebrate my 40thwedding anniversary this year.”

Summey told the class of 2009 not to beafraid of the job market and economy. “You’reprepared for the future,” he said. “Your CSUeducation has provided you with ability,character, work ethic, respect for yourself andothers and determination that you can doanything that comes your way,” said Summey.“Your education gives you the opportunity torespond when opportunity knocks,” he said.

Summey told the graduates to look ahead,not back, and reminded them, “What you dofor others is what counts.”

L ili Gresham ’02 delivered the recogni-tion of the alumni on behalf of theAlumni Board. Gresham is director of

corporate relations and planned giving at CSUand holds a master of mass communicationsfrom the University of South Carolina.

Gresham’s remarks to the graduates follow:

Seven years ago I was just like you –getting ready to walk on that stage.

However, I was so exhausted from pouringmy heart and soul into academics and studentleadership roles that I was not excited aboutgraduation. My focus was my steps beyondgraduation day. I did not reflect, celebrate orproperly appreciate my time at CharlestonSouthern.

However, when I entered graduate school ata large public university I realized how trulygrateful and appreciative I had become forCSU. I missed the presence of God in the class-room; I missed the mission of the University –the friendships, professors, the ducks! I hadbeen in too much of a rush to leave.

Enjoy this time of celebration and reflec-tion in your life!

I am reminded of the quote: Enjoy the lit-tle things, for one day you may look back andrealize they were the big things.

Don’t forget: The all-nighter cramming forfinals and hours spent making notecards for adreadful exam.

The excitement of sitting on a bench by thereflection pond talking to that special some-one. The drama in the dorm when a mysteryperson “borrowed” your favorite shoes. Thetime a professor spent with you outside theclassroom to help with an assignment.

These memories are priceless – do notthrow them out with your notebooks!

Besides the memories, also reflect on howCharleston Southern has changed who youhave become. When I was a student, I had

Summey addresses the Class of 2009By Jan Josl in

a n n u a l g r a d u a t i o n l u n c h e o n

Keith Summey addressesthe graduates.



S C H O O L T I E S

taken some challenging classes and was indesperate need for some easier credits. So, Itook a bowling class – that went great! Then Itook a first aid class – and it was in this classwhere we learned CPR and how this simpletechnique could bring a lifeless, possiblyhopeless, body back to life.

For many of you, CSU was your CPR. Many of you found direction in life when

you discovered a degree that brought youpassion and a career direction.

Some of you were brought back to lifethrough rededication to your Christian walk.

And most importantly, some were givennew life through salvation from our Savior.

Today, I use the acronym CPR as areminder of the life you experienced at CSUand why it is vital to keep that life strong as amember of the Alumni Association.

C – Communication: • Let us know how you are doing! Send

wedding photos and baby announcementsand career moves to the CSU Magazine.

• Keep in touch with the professors andstaff who touched your lives. Let them knowhow you are doing and, remember, one dayyou may need a letter of recommendation.

P – Pray:• Pray for the University – for the faculty,

staff, students and direction of the University.This is the most powerful tool you have, andas CSU continues to thrive, the value of yourcollege degree will only increase.

R – Return: • Come back to the campus – come to

homecoming, bring your family to feed theducks and witness the progress of theUniversity.

And finally,

• Return financially – I am not asking forenough money to name a building after you(but we can accommodate that if you like) but$20 or $30 from your first paycheck to theAlumni Association for student scholarships.Many of you received scholarships and thiswas because of the generosity of others whohad faith in you.

Husband and wife, Terry ’02 and Saskia Hamlin Keller ’03 were happy aboutearning master’s degrees. Terry received the master of education in secondaryadministration, and Saskia received the master of education in elementaryeducation. Photo by Sherry Atkinson

New recipients of the Alumni Association Scholarship wereinvited to the graduation luncheon. Heather Brigman ’10,

second from left, is greeted by association membersTony Fountain ’85, Anne Turner ’85, ’89 MEd, ’05 MEd, and

Edna Edwards Williams ’99. Other Alumni AssociationScholarship winners are: Cristina Cease, Whitney Horn

and Shelley Lemerande.

Ami Frierson and Ally Baker break out the

2009 shades before graduation rehearsal.



S C H O O L T I E S

M ark your calendars now for theweekend of October 22-25, becauseHomecoming 2009 is already

shaping up to be one of the best ever. Therewill be plenty of activities for the whole familyto enjoy, plus the Homecoming footballcontest against Liberty University.Homecoming is special this year as we markthe 40th reunion of the Founding Classes.You have been reading about this reunion inCSU Magazine for more than a year now, andthe time for celebrating has finally arrived.The Founding Classes, made up of those whograduated in 1967, 1968, and 1969, are trulythe pioneers who paved the way for morethan 13,000 graduates who would follow intheir footsteps. All of us who have had theopportunity to attend Charleston Southernowe these classes a debt of gratitude.

Homecoming Weekend will provide allalumni with a wonderful opportunity tospend time on campus and reconnect withclassmates and professors. Please take a lookat the schedule of events for HomecomingWeekend. Events planned especially for theFounding Classes are highlighted. Also, logon to www.charlestonsouthern.edu/alumni forup-to-date Homecoming information...moregreat events are coming!

Thursday, October 225K FUN RUN/WALK, 7:15 P.M., FIELD HOUSE LAWN

Alumni, Students, Faculty, and Staff areinvited to join the 2009 5K Fun Run andWalk. This is the traditional kickoff toHomecoming Weekend. T-shirts will beprovided to student runners, and winners willbe announced in various categories. No cost.

ELEVATE @ 8, 8 P.M., FIELD HOUSE LAWN

Elevate, the weekly campus worshipservice, will be held on the lawn of theField House. Join us for a wonderful time ofworship with our students and the ElevatePraise Band.

2ND ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL, 9 P.M., FIELD HOUSE LAWN

The Second annual Fall Festival will beheld at the conclusion of the Fun Run andElevate. There will be plenty of games andactivities for the whole family to enjoy. Hotdogs and soft drinks will be provided, and abonfire/pep rally will be held to get us “fired”up for the Liberty game! No cost.

Friday, October 23PRESIDENT’S CUP GOLFTOURNAMENT, NOON SHOTGUNSTART, THE GOLF CLUB ATWESCOTT PLANTATION

Alumni are encouraged to join us for anafternoon of fun and fellowship at the 22ndannual President’s Cup Golf Tournament. Theformat is captain’s choice, and golfers will bearranged in teams of four. Register a team orindividually at a cost of $75 per player. Therewill be prizes for the top 3 teams, longestdrive, and closest to the pin. There will alsobe a hole in one challenge with a grand prizeof a new car! An awards banquet will be heldat the conclusion of the tournament, and non-golfers can attend the banquet for $10 each.Contact David Weiss in the Alumni Office at843-863-7516 or [email protected] to regis-ter or for more information. Watch your mail-boxes for a separate brochure coming soon!

FRIDAY OUTDOOR MOVIE, 9 P.M.,SCIENCE BUILDING LAWN

Students and Alumni are invited to join usfor a movie on the lawn! A classic movie willbe shown, and popcorn, peanuts, and softdrinks will be provided. Bring a blanket orchair and enjoy!

Founding Classes to be Honored at Homecoming 2009By David Weiss ’03

CSU magazine 41

S C H O O L T I E S

Saturday, October 24CSU ALUMNI ASSOCIATION ANNUALMEETING, 10 A.M., DPW NURSINGBUILDING AUDITORIUM

Alumni are invited to attend the CSUAAannual meeting on Saturday morning. AlumniBoard members and Alumni Association offi-cers will be elected, and University administra-tors will be available to answer your questions.Light refreshments will be served. No cost.

CSU CAMPUS TOURS, 10:45 A.M.,ALUMNI TENT NEAR FOOTBALLSTADIUM

How much has the campus changed sinceyour graduation? Alumni are invited to tourthe campus and see firsthand the new build-ings and improvements to the campus. Tourswill start at the Alumni Tent near the footballstadium. No cost.

ALUMNI TAILGATE LUNCH, 11 A.M.,ALUMNI TENT NEAR FOOTBALLSTADIUM

Join the CSUAA at the big tent located nearthe football stadium for a great time of fellow-ship and great tailgate food. Lunch tickets are$7 each.

DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL JUSTICEREUNION, 11 A.M., ALUMNI TENT

The Department of Criminal Justice will beholding a reunion during the Alumni TailgateLunch. Criminal Justice professors will beattending, and all Bachelor’s and Master’sCriminal Justice Alumni are encouraged tostop by!

BUC WALK 2009, NOON., NEAR ALUMNI TENT

The whole family is encouraged to attendBuc Walk 2009. Enjoy the floats and displaysfrom the various clubs and organizations oncampus, the Air Force ROTC, and the CSUMarching Bucs. Also, our Homecoming Courtnominees will appear in the walk, along withPresident Hunter! No cost.

CSU FOOTBALL VS. LIBERTY, 1:30 P.M., CSU STADIUM

Watch as the Buccaneers take on defendingBig South Champion Liberty at CSU Stadium.General admission tickets are available for$10 each. The Founding Classes will have aspecial reserved section and will be recog-nized during the game.

FOUNDING CLASSES 40TH REUNIONRECEPTION AND DINNER, 7 P.M.,SCIENCE BUILDING/ STROMTHURMOND CENTER CAFETERIA

This is the big event! The founding classeswill celebrate their 40th reunion at this eventon Saturday evening. A reception will be heldin the Science Building at 7, followed by dinnerin the cafeteria at 8. Come out to fellowshipwith your classmates, their spouses, andprofessors and coaches from your BCC days.Tickets to this wonderful event will be $75per person. Keep an eye on your mailbox forregistration information.

Sunday, October 25CAMPUS WORSHIP, 11 A.M.,LIGHTSEY CHAPEL AUDITORIUM

Everyone is invited to join Summit Churchfor campus worship in the Lightsey Chapel.

SUNDAY CONCERT SERIES, 3 P.M.,LIGHTSEY CHAPEL AUDITORIUM

Alumni and guests are invited to supportour music students and faculty by attendingthis free Jazz Band concert.

There are more events to come! Please logon to www.charlestonsouthern.edu/alumni forthe most up-to-date event listings.


S C H O O L T I E S

T he 2009 Alumni Award winners werehonored during convocation in April.Under the leadership of Alumni

Association President Edna Edwards Williams‘99, the Alumni Board selected four graduatesto be recognized as 2009’s OutstandingAlumni. Williams was assisted in giving outthe awards by Alumni Director David Weiss’03 and Alumni Board members TonyFountain ’85 and Anne Turner ’86. “Thesefour Alumni represent the best of CharlestonSouthern,” said Williams. “It is an honor to beable to recognize these remarkable graduatesfor their accomplishments.”

Outstanding Alumnus of the Year:Raul Chang ’07

2Lt Raul Chang is no stranger to accoladesduring his career in the United States AirForce. Prior to attending Charleston Southern,Chang served 10 years as an enlisted memberof the USAF. As a member of CSU’s Air ForceROTC, Chang’s leadership was instrumental inhelping Detachment 772 earn the honor ofBest Small Detachment in the Nation for2007. A native of Panama, Chang graduatedfrom Charleston Southern in 2007 and earnedhis commission in the USAF. He is currentlyassigned to the HQ Ninth Air Force/UnitedStates Air Forces Central (ACC) as a NetworkOperations and Security Center CrewCommander at Shaw Air Force Base in

Sumter, S.C. He currently leads 37 militaryand civilian NOSC operations crew memberswho monitor and restore network serviceoutages. In addition, he implements networkdefense, metric collection, outage forecasting,and help desk trouble ticket managementtracking. Lieutenant Chang was deployed toAl Udeid Air Base in Qatar in 2008, where hewas key to managing $1 billion in assets forinformation transport systems, providing aircombat support at more than 21 locationsfor the Air Force. While in the Middle East,Chang also spent time at Bagram Air Base inAfghanistan and Ali Al Salem in Kuwait wherehe trained personnel on various communica-tions systems. Chang personally assisted inthe prevention of the spread of a maliciousworm to Department of Defense systems, andwas instrumental in maintaining the safety ofsensitive national security information.

2009 Alumni Award Winners Honored


S C H O O L T I E S

Alumni Association Service Award: Aaron Dunn ’82

Service is the first word that comes tomind when one thinks of Aaron Dunn. A1982 graduate, Dunn has been active in theAlumni Association and in the lives of CSUstudents. Even shortly after graduation, heallowed Baptist College students to stay at hishome during Christmas break and other timeswhen the campus was closed. He has alwaysbeen very generous of his time and his money.He has allowed students to do laundry at hishome and has fed them when they werehungry. Dunn has served multiple terms onthe Alumni Board, and he is currently servingas Vice President of the Alumni Association.Dunn has also been a member of the Board ofVisitors for more than five years. He takes anactive role regarding his duties to the AlumniAssociation and has consistently demonstrateda desire to go above and beyond the requestedinvolvement. For the last 5 years, Dunn hasdonated of his own time to help the studentswho make calls for the Phonathon annualfund drive. He is currently employed byLowcountry Aids Services, a local nonprofitdedicated to assisting those suffering withHIV and the AIDS virus. Dunn also workspart time in CSU’s counseling department.He is a longtime member of Deer Park BaptistChurch, which also takes an active role inministering to CSU students.

Alumnus Community Service Award:Kevin Futrell ’89

Involvement in the local community issomething that has always been important toKevin Futrell. A 1989 graduate, Futrell takesan active role in the Charleston communityand his alma mater. Futrell is involved inyouth sports in the Lowcountry, coaching theOrange Crush, a traveling under-12 baseballteam in Hanahan. He also coaches the 5ththrough 8th grade Upward basketball teamat Highland Park Baptist Church, also inHanahan. He is a longtime member of theBoard of Visitors organization, helping supportstudent scholarship efforts at CharlestonSouthern. As a former baseball player, Futrellhas taken an active role in the future of theCSU baseball program. He is a foundingmember of Building Buccaneer Baseball, thecurrent facilities campaign for baseball. Hehas helped organize and plan fundraisingevents and made personal contributionstoward the campaign. Futrell and his wife,Nora, have two children, Stephanie, 14, andParker, 11. The Futrells are members ofNorth Charleston Methodist Church, and heis currently employed as Vice President ofthe National Bank of South Carolina.

Outstanding Young Alumnus of the Year:Jason Jurkowski ’99

Lieutenant Commander Jason Jurkowski isa 1999 graduate. Jurkowski currently servesthe University as a member of the Board ofVisitors organization. Jurkowski serves ourcountry as a member of the U.S. PublicHealth Service Commissioned Corps, an eliteteam dedicated to delivering the nation’s pub-lic health promotion and disease preventionprograms, and advancing public healthscience around the world. As one of America’sseven uniformed services, the CommissionedCorps fills vital public health roles withinFederal Government agencies and programs.Jurkowski served in 2008 as part of a medicalteam that conducted missions in Nicaragua,Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Trinidadand Tobago, and Guyana. As part of this team,Jason supported an array of services includingpublic health screenings, health education,and disaster preparedness. Additionally, theteam conducted 221 surgeries, treated 47,000patients, and dispensed 81,000 prescriptions.Jurkowski currently serves as the Director ofthe Secretary’s Operation Center, whichcoordinates efforts of various U.S. governmentagencies during emergency situations anddisasters within the United States.

Members of the Alumni Association board congratulate Alumni Award Winners:Tony Fountain ’85, Anne Turner ’86, Kevin Futrell ’89, Raul Chang ’07, Aaron Dunn’82, Edna Edwards Williams ’99 and David Weiss ’03. Jason Jurkowski was unableto attend the event. Photo by Sherry Atkinson


S C H O O L T I E S

A s some of you know, the data collec-tion process for the 2010 AlumniDirectory project began in early 2009

by Publishing Concepts. If you have alreadycalled to update your information, thank you!If not, PCI will be in touch on behalf of CSUin the coming weeks. You may get a postcard,e-mail, or telephone call from PCI/PublishingConcepts on behalf of CSU giving you the

chance to both update your contact informa-tion and purchase the upcoming alumnidirectory.

We will be producing and offering a boundand a CD-ROM directory of alumni for releasein early 2010. The directory will provideopportunities for maintaining and encourag-ing both personal and professional connec-tions among alumni. It will also serve a pri-

mary role in keeping alumni contact informa-tion current so that CSU can share with alum-ni information about reunions, opportunitiesto get involved, and information about what’shappening at CSU.

If you have any questions about the direc-tory project, please contact David Weiss,director of alumni affairs, at 843.863.7516 orat [email protected].

2010 Alumni Directory Project Under Way

A South Carolina Historical Marker wasunveiled next to the Hunter ReceptionCenter on front campus in late spring.

The marker commemorates the Izard familyand The Elms Plantation, which was originallysituated on the site where CharlestonSouthern University sits today.

Historical Marker Unveiled on Campus

Pictured are: President Jairy Hunter,Michael J. Heitzler, mayor of the City ofGoose Creek, and Keith Summey, mayor

of the City of North Charleston. Photo by Sherry Atkinson


S C H O O L T I E S

I f logging onto csusports.com doesn’t giveyou enough Buccaneer time, the athleticsdepartment has several new ways you

can get your fill of Buc action.Twitter is quick and operates as a miniblog.

In 140 characters or less, you can find outwhat’s going on.

Facebook is a social group that allows youto keep up with friends and groups.

Vortex is a Web site athletics uses formedia distribution.

Blogger is a professional way to keepeveryone up-to-date. Blog stands for Web log(kind of like a diary).

You Tube is a video sharing site.

To find the Bucs on all these sites, log ontocsusports.com and look for the media iconson the right-hand side.

Following the Bucs Through New Media

D uring the spring semester, many ofyou received phone calls from CSUstudents and alumni volunteers.

Our callers made thousands of phone callsto update alumni contact information,reacquaint alumni with the University, andto make the case for financial support. Allgifts to Phonathon benefit the University’sannual fund, which provides vital aid toour student body.

More than 95 percent of CSU studentsreceive financial aid, and many of these stu-dents would be unable to attend CharlestonSouthern without scholarship assistance. Theentire CSU family is grateful for alumni whoare willing to pass the generosity of pastdonors on to today’s students. By supportingstudents, you are making an investment notonly in Christian higher education but also inthe future of our country. Thanks again foryour generous show of support.

It’s not too late to be a part of our 2009Annual Fund Drive. Simply visit the CSU Website, www.charlestonsouthern.edu, and clickon the “Give Now” button. Also, keep yourcontact information current by contacting theAlumni Office at 843-863-7516 or contactme at [email protected].

Phonathon 2009 Provided Needed AidBy David Weiss ’03

Photos by Franny Garrett ’10, Rhett Marley ’10, Heather Koziel ’08 and Jan Joslin

In the busyness of life, we often miss the

beauty in the ordinary. Several photographers

on the student publications staff scoured the

campus and took photos of the ABCs at CSU.

How many of these do you recognize?

A PUBLICATION OF CHARLESTON SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY CSU magazine 47A PUBLICATION OF CHARLESTON SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY CSU magazine 47

A – gates, Gilmore Garden, B – bench, Reflection Pond, C – pitcher, Java City coffeeshop, L. Mendel Rivers Library, D – handle of cutlass, painted Bucky by post office, E – top of time capsule, Science Building, F – columns, C.S. Jones Hall,

G – flower in an office, H – columns, H.E. Ashby Hall, I – gate column by Gilmore Garden, J – banister, Science Building, K – stairwell, Science Building, L – goalpost, football field, M – sundial, Furman Gressette Patriotic Center,

N – supports, football stadium, O – clock, Strom Thurmond Center, P – eaves, Science Building, Q – front gates, Condra Gates, R – knife handle, painted Bucky by post office, S – front gates, Condra Gates, T – cross, Lightsey Chapel,

U – tree on campus, V – flagpole, Furman Gressette Patriotic Center, W – time capsule, Science Building, X – cupola, Derry Patterson Wingo Nursing Building, Y – light pole, parking lot, Z – stairs, Whitfield Stadium Center

the ABCs of CSU


S C H O O L T I E S

MemorialsJames “Buddy” Henry Bryan Jr. ’75, age55, died Feb. 11 in Atlanta. He was aformer employee at the National CrimeInformation Center, had been a jewelerand was most recently in the restaurantbusiness.

Dr. David William Cuttino Jr., age 81,died April 29 in Charleston. He was afounding faculty member at CharlestonSouthern and had been chair of themusic department. He also served as aminister of music in several churches.Memorials may be made to TheChoral/Voice Departments, CharlestonSouthern University School of Music,P.O. Box 118087, Charleston, SC 29423.

Caroline Vaughan Haltiwanger, age 82,died March 21 in Charleston. She was aretired Charleston Southern libraryemployee.

Sue Ann Kelly Hunnicutt ’86, ’90 MEd, age45, died March 6 in Columbia, S.C. Shewas a teacher at Hopkins ElementarySchool in Richland District One. Suewas editor of the Cutlass during herundergraduate years.

Jenny Melissa Smith Swindler Mangum’80, age 50, died May 5 in Blythewood,S.C. She held numerous positionsthroughout her career with the S.C.Departments of Corrections and JuvenileJustice.

Sandra Bonds Pridemore ’77, age 52,died March 8 in Summerville, S.C. Sheretired from BASF as a computer analyst.

Dorothy Carol Shuler ’94, age 46, diedMay 11 in Orangeburg, S.C. She workedwith the Santee Literacy Council.

Alumni AwardNominations SoughtThe CSU Alumni Association is accepting nominations for itssix annual awards. Submit your nominations via e-mail [email protected] or by calling the alumni office at 843-863-7516.

Distinguished Alumnus of the YearMost prestigious award given by the Alumni Association to analumnus who strives for excellence in all endeavors. Alum hasdistinguished him or herself in three areas: service to theUniversity, service to the community and achievement in hisor her field of endeavor.

Outstanding Young Alumnus of the YearRecognizes an alumnus under the age of 30 who has beensuccessful in his or her field of endeavor and shows exceptionalpromise of future achievement.

Alumnus Community Service AwardHonors an alumnus who goes above and beyond the expectationsin his/her community, church or nonprofit group. The awardrecognizes his or her personal sacrifice and exceptional volunteerservice to a charitable organization.

University Mission AwardThis award goes to the outstanding alumnus who exhibits theideals and mission of Charleston Southern.

Alumnus Service AwardHonors and recognizes an alumnus who performs outstandingservice to the University, the Alumni Association or other alumni activities.

Outstanding Alumnus of the YearThis award honors an alumnus who reflects honor on theUniversity for exceptional achievement in his or her field of endeavor.

Megan Bruner

Class: Sophomore Major: English From: Murrells Inlet, SC

Favorite Class:Dr. Scott Yarbrough’s American Literature class

My life verse is ...“For I know the plans I have for you – thisis the Lord’s declaration – plans for yourwelfare, not for disaster, to give you afuture and a hope.” - Jeremiah 29:11

When I’m not in class you might find me …Hanging out with friends at Starbucks ordowntown Charleston.

I enrolled at CSU because …I loved the atmosphere when I came tocampus for a visit. It was a perfect distancefrom home, and I love downtownCharleston.

Before I graduate, I want to …Travel, maybe through a study abroad program.

Life after CSU:I plan to attend grad school in South Carolinaor North Carolina (or maybe NYU). Fromthere, I would like to teach at a S.C. collegeor university.

s tudent prof i le

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Promoting Academic Excellencein a Christian Environment

LEARNINGCookie Momsters, Inc.:

Business Born Out of

Desperation

LEADINGRadabaugh Plays

Against the Odds

SERVINGMinistry Reaches

Beyond the Church

SCHOOL TIESFounding Classes to Be

Honored at Homecoming

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csu magazine vol.19 no.2

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