Southern Nazarene University6729 NW 39th Expressway Bethany, OK 73008-2694

The LIGhT INSIDeFaLL 2007

Homecoming ’07The School of Education – Changing Lives!Faculty Achievements

On the coverPictured on the front are children of SNU alumni and staff: Payton Rowland, Future University President, son of Toby (’95) and Jennifer (’96) Rowland; Morgan Rothwell, Future Teacher, daughter ofTim (’94) and Janna (’95) Rothwell; Maya Rogers, Future School Administra-tor, daughter of Warren Rogers, Director of Admissions, and Jeena.PhotograPh by Marcia Feisel

(From page 2)

Frances (Bell, ’67) WrightDirector of Tutorial Center, Elim Christian Services, Palos Heights, Illinois

“The farmer went out to sow his seed. As he sowed, some fell along the road, and it was trampled underfoot, and the birds of the sky devoured it. Other seed fell on the rock, and as soon as it grew, it withered away, because it had no moisture. Other fell amid the thorns, and the thorns grew with it, and choked it. Other fell into the good ground, and grew, and brought forth fruit one hundred times.”

– From Jesus’ parable about the sower, luke 8

Frances Wright graduated from SNU during the 1960s – a decade historians have described as a time of tremendous discontinuity in our nation. All the more striking, then, is the stark contrast of a solid foundation that SNU offered during those days. Wright points to the solid training she received at the University, along with connections she made, as much of the reason for her early success in the teaching field.

“It was the solid training I had received at SNU and the recommendations of my professors that helped me to be so successful in my first teaching experiences,” she said. “I believe the time that professors took with students to listen, advise and just care about us was so important during our college career.”

Wright will celebrate her 40-year college reunion this fall at SNU. During the four decades since

her graduation, she has kept in touch with those professors who provided her with friendship and nurturing as well as spiritual and academic guidance. They include the late Dr. Wesley Moon, Dr. Forrest Ladd and Dr. Thurman Coburn. She plans to see Ladd at the reunion. Such rich relational gifts repre-sent the ancillary benefits of attending SNU, says Wright, who double majored in psychol-ogy and secondary education.

Shortly following graduation, she went on to earn a Master’s degree in special education of emotionally disturbed children from the University of Kansas. What followed was an impressive career teaching learning disability support classes in both public and Christian schools; teaching self-contained classes for emo-tionally disturbed children; and serving asa consultant for Children’s Hospital in Okla-homa City.

Today, Wright is the Director of Discovery Educational Center, a tutorial center in Paslos, Illinois, which is uniquely designed to address the tutoring needs of students with learning dis-abilities. “I am motivated by the improvement in skills that I see my students achieve,” she said.

Wright, who is also a minister’s wife, has lived in four locations where she and her husband have moved for ministry. “I have never wanted for a job in any of these locations,” she said. “Through my excellent training at SNU, my special educa-tion qualifications and God’s help, I have had many rewarding experiences as a teacher.”

Future school administrator Maya Rogers, age 4, daughter of SNU Admissions Director Warren and wife Jeena Rogers.

“… For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself willbe exalted.”

– From Jesus’ parable aboutthe lowest seat, luke 14

Dr. Jeanne Akin grew up on a cotton farm learn-ing the value and reward of working hard, and that unless she wanted to be sweaty, dirty and have calloused hands from a hoe handle the rest of her life, she might want to consider going to college when she grew up. One of six children, she says she benefited greatly from her parents’ commitment as well as the love and discipling of her church. Her childhood, a collaborative class-room, provided rich learning experiences and galvanized her interest in becoming a teacher and educator. After graduating from the SNU School of Education, she went on to earn advanced degrees in the field, including a doctorate from Oklahoma State University, Stillwater. This past spring, she was named the prestigious Mary A. White Chair of Education at Oklahoma Baptist University, Shawnee.

“My years at SNU certainly are the major mile-stones for preparing me for a career in educa-tion,” Akin said. “They took the raw material: my natural talents, early learning experiences, Christian commitment, and youthful zeal and used it as a foundation for building a budding young professional.”

For the past 28 years, Akin has “walked with students on a particular piece of their life journey.” During this time, one of the most easily distinguishable “voices in her head” – telling her what to do – was that of Dr. Joy Beaver, former head of the SNU School of Education. As an example of the lifelong friendships that often develop between SNU students and professors, Beaver attended the ceremony during which Akin was named the White Chair. Akin recalls her former teacher as one who was energetic and always busy.

Fall2007

Gresham’sGood NewsA reach beyond our grasp

Our forbearers at various locations had a strongly held belief that knowledge and learning were values for which almost any sacrifice was worthy. Those of us who have been the beneficiaries of this belief will readily acknowledge that we learned as much from the people who taught us as from the books we studied.

The founders and their colleagues of the several institutions that merged to become SNU were themselves such persons who believed in the power of education. A.M. Hills, first president of Texas Holiness University, was educated at Oberlin and Yale, and valued teaching as much as administer-ing. He was prototypical of the early leader-ship of this institution.

Through the years, literally hundreds of professors modeled the life of learning before their students. While the list is too long to give here, many would remember C.A. McConnell, Anna Belle Laughbaum, Fred Floyd, Geraldine Huhnke, Forrest Ladd, Don and Joy Beaver, Gene Heasley, and so many others who have contributed to the preservation and advancement of learning on our campus.

Often our professors and administrators filled roles as both educators and ministers. At their best, these were compatible and complementary aspects of the same func-tion, i.e., to raise the hopes, dreams and goals of their parishioners/students.

It is, therefore, entirely appropriate that we honor at Homecoming 2007 our graduates who have devoted their lives to teaching. Several of our valued graduates are profiled in this issue. They are examples of the several thousand of our alumni who have entered the field of education as their calling.

As you read the pages that follow, allow your mind to retreat into your early years of growth and development. Think of a teacher, or several, who in significant ways molded and shaped your life. Give thanks to God for the challenges they placed before you to “reach beyond your grasp” and to live a life of blessing for your family, church and community.

Loren Gresham, Ph.D.President

(Continued inside)

By Jennifer James-McCollum

hen he was 12 years old, Jesus sat in the temple hearing and asking questions of the Pharisees. He astonished and amazed these teachers of the law with His understand-ing of the complex rules and instructions that were given by Lord God through Moses to the people of Israel. All the more interesting then, that 18 years later, He would choose the genre of the parable to teach. And, so, He taught on mountains and by the seaside; in houses, streets and cornfields; in His city and in the cities of the disciples. Everywhere Jesus went, He was teaching something – using earthly stories to reveal grace and truth.

Following are stories of four SNU alumni who have also been about “teaching something.” They represent hundreds of other teachers and school administrators who will be honored at the upcoming Homecoming 2007 Showcase event, Saturday, November 10, 7:30 p.m. at Bethany First Church of the Nazarene: Teaching & Trans-forming for His Kingdom: Celebrating the School of Education.

Dr. Jeanne (Ross, ’79) AkinAssociate Professor of Education at Oklahoma Baptist University, Shawnee, Oklahoma

W

Future teacher Morgan Rothwell, age 9, daughter of SNU alumni Tim (’94) and Janna (Hulsey, ’95) Rothwell; and granddaughter of Steve (’68) and Jan (’70) Hulsey, and Paul (’69) and Sherri Pat (’79) Rothwell.

On campus

(Continued from page 1)

SNU NAIA comeback named one of Oklahoma’s top 100 events

The following “historical” fact was listed as number 83 out of 100 of the top sports events taking place in the state of Oklahoma in the

past century. “Oklahoma City University led by 13 with 13 minutes to play in the NAIA women’s championship game, but Southern Nazarene ral-lied, and Khady Ngom scored four points in the final 28 seconds, including the game-winner in SNU’s 71-70 victory.” This was the 2003 National Championship game.

SNU at NYC ‘07 in St. LouisSNU revolutionized the way college booths were run by holding an event within itself. Hundreds of students participated in the VIP booth’s “Red Party” where Admissions staff got acquainted with prospective students. Hundreds of pictures were taken with the SNU laptop program called Photo Booth. The SNU VIP booth had its own MySpace, at www.myspace.com/snuvip where students could sign up to be an SNU VIP friend and leave comments for SNU. View a photo gal-lery of this event at www.snu.edu/admissions.

(Continued on back cover)

“I remember her … fully dedicated to teaching us to take seriously our responsibility to teach the children that would be entrusted to us as teachers,” Akin said. “Her teaching stories … still teach me.”

Today, Akin’s former students confess it is her voice they hear guiding them in how to deal with the challenges they face as educators. The legacies of Dr. Beaver, along with a host of other SNU professors Akin recalls fondly – Dr. Tom Barnard, the Murrows, Professor Jeanne Cypert, Dr. Mark Reighard, Dr. Gresham and the late Dr. Charles Jennings – live on through Akin’s tutelage and instruction. “I have vivid, treasured memories of teaching excellence that was lived out before me,” she said. “I was valued as a person at SNU by my professors … that is a priceless treasure.”

“My job is to engage students in thinking and learning,” Akin summarized. “I don’t see my job as one that is to pour my own personal knowl-edge into the minds of my students. I get to teach those that will be teaching hundreds of others across their teaching careers.”

“… I want to prepare teachers that can make learning meaningful to their students; ones that can remember that they are helping to develop ‘people’ and not mere ‘dispensers of knowledge.’”

Nicky (Breding, ’00) Glover6th Grade Math Teacher, Kenneth Cooper Middle School, Oklahoma City

“Immediately he who received the five talents went and traded with them, and made another five talents.”

– From Jesus’ parable aboutthe 10 talents, matthew 25

Nicky Glover graduated from SNU nearly 25 years after Akin, and still, her story is strikingly similar. “Going to SNU prepared me for my career in education,” she said. Glover cites small classes and being able to talk personally to profes-sors who shared her values and interests as being not only the highlight, but the advantage of her college career at SNU. “They made time for me,” she said.

Glover, who has the daunting task of teaching math to sixth graders, also earned an MA from SNU and is currently working on a doctorate from OSU. She is preparing ultimately for a career as a school administrator and wants to teach at the university level. “My most rewarding experience as an educator, so far, has been when students in my math classes finally ‘get’ how to do something that they’ve never understood previously.”

Glover says the highlight of her SNU experience was making friends with the very professors that guided her and prepared her for the teaching field. “I had the chance to see them as people, not just elders,” she said. “I saw how helpful it was to have faculty that cared about my education and wanted me to be the best educator that I could be, and I want to do the same for future teach-ers … I will always remember Dr. DeVries, Dr. Eskridge and Professor Thompson.”

Randy Rader, ’94 Principal, Northridge Elementary, Oklahoma City

“Which of you men, if you had one hundred sheep, and lost one of them, wouldn’t leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one that was lost, until he found it?”

– From Jesus’ parable aboutthe lost sheep, luke 15:3

A secular university and a baseball scholar-ship threatened to take Randy Rader in a different direction, but quickly he learned the institution didn’t share his beliefs. “After two years of being a fish out of water, I transferred to SNU,” Rader said. “It was the greatest thing I ever did and worth every penny.”

Rader, who like Glover also earned an MA from SNU, grew up the son of a school teacher and administrator and feels that his career in education is where God wants him to do His work. “God gave me a passion for kids and a gift of interact-ing effectively with them,” he said.

Rader hopes to one day earn a doctorate degree and serve as the superintendent of a large school district in Oklahoma. Still, he says his greatest advantage in the field is simply that he went to SNU. “Graduates of the School of Education have an excellent reputation as teachers …” Rader said. “Administrators know that when they get an SNU graduate, they get a person that has not only been trained in the latest techniques and doctrines of teaching, but is a great, well-rounded Christian adult that loves kids.”

“As a principal, now … I can tell you that my colleagues and I know that SNU puts out great graduates.”

Rader cites the same advantage of a degree from SNU as so many others – small class sizes that allow relationships to develop between fellow students and professors. “You are more than a paycheck,” Rader said. “The professors take a personal interest in you and really want you to

SNU faculty accomplishmentsMany of SNU’s distinguished faculty have beenextraordinarily busy in the past few months. Logon to read additional and expanded stories offaculty accomplishments at www.snu.edu/faculty.

Rebekah Ambrosini, assistant professor of voice, sang “Flora” in La Traviata by Verdi at the Masterworks Festival in Winona Lake, IN, an event sponsored by the Christian Performing Arts Fellowship.

Brent Ballweg, professor of music, recently assumed the position of President of the Oklahoma Choral Directors. Ballweg has been a part of the organization for more than 25 years.

Reggie Coleman, adjunct instruc-tor in BRIDGE and BSBA programs, made the list of National Republican Congressional Committee 2006 Businessmen of the Year. This list recognizes the top U.S. business leaders who have successfully integrated business and financial

success with the support of Republican ideals. He was also nominated for “Who’s Who among American Teachers and Educators, 2007.”

Linda Garrett, adjunct professor, made a presentation at the Kennedy Center, Washington, DC, on “The Arts Education Perception Survey” (TAPES) and its application to teach-ing arts within public elementary schools in the state of Oklahoma.

Attendees included representatives from around the nation.

Linda Miner, director of academic programs - Tulsa, professional /graduate studies, won first place for a paper titled “Truth Telling about Terminal Diagnoses

in Kazakhstan” at the 25th Annual Scientific Assembly and Retreat, IHI Family Medical Residency Program, Western Hills, OK. This study will be continued to gather more data.

Brint Montgomery, professor of philosophy, was an invited participant in a three-week Open Theology and Science seminar in Boston. This new field in science and religion discus-sion explores the issues of science (cosmology, biology and human

sciences) as they relate to open theology. Open theol-ogy scholars conversed with nationally prominent scientists in pursuit of integrated research on science and open theology. From this conference will come scholarly articles to appear in journals, books and high visibility publications.

Koshy Muthalaly, professor of profes-sional/graduate studies, led a session on “Diversity as an Asset to Learn-ing” at the Christian Adult Higher Education Association (CAHEA) conference in Los Angeles.

Dwight E. Neuenschwander, profes-sor of physics, was invited to present a paper titled “There is no ‘Art,’ only Artists” at the summer 2007 national meeting of the American Association of Physics Teachers, in Greensboro, NC. He was one of only three

people giving invited talks in a session titled “The Art and Science of Physics Teaching.”

Gwen Rodgers, computer science/net-work engineering professor, recently published “Instructor Resource Expert Demonstration Documents” for Prentice Hall’s new “GO! With Microsoft Office 2007” series. She is also a reviewer for several Prentice

Hall computer application books.

Stephanie Shellenberger, assistant professor/assistant director of athlet-ics, was involved with the “Healthy Choices” grant program this past summer. The program offered four evening classes a week throughout the summer in water aerobics, dance

aerobics, lap swimming and a walking program. More than 100 participants enjoyed classes that provided healthy education and activities to the im-mediate Bethany community.

Judy Steele, adjunct professor, profes-sional /graduate studies, developed and presented a workshop at Mid-America Christian University’s (MACU) Career Expo 2007 on “Resumé Writing for Results,” focusing on language style and

usage and resume formatting and appearance. She also contributed to the development of MACU’s accreditation Self-Study Report as a member of the accreditation committee. Steele has been included in the acknowledgements section as a contributor to the new fourth edition of an English rhetoric textbook, “Critical Thinking, Thoughtful Writing,” by Hough-ton Mifflin, published this past summer.

Brad Strawn, Vice President for Spiritual Development, published the article “Preaching and/as Play: D.W. Winnicott and Homiletics” with co-author and brother Brent Strawn, associate professor of Old Testament at Candler School of Theology at

Emory University, in the journal Homiletic. He also edited a special volume of the Journal of Psychology & Theology called “Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy and Religion: A Case Study Approach.” Strawn contrib-uted an article in this same volume titled “Slouching Toward Integration: Psychoanalysis and Religion in Dialogue.” He presented “Courting Surprise: A Hermeneutical Approach to Psychotherapy” at the International Conference for the Christian Associa-tion for Psychological Studies. This past spring he presented a paper at the Wesleyan Theological Society titled “Making Persons Together: Revisiting Wesley’s Small Groups.”

Phonathon update!We’ll be in touch … don’t worry! This year’s SNU Phonathon with our wonderful student callers will begin January 28, 2008. Remember, you can make a difference at Southern Nazarene University by making a contribution to The SNU Fund which provides for student scholarships and the greatest needs of the university. After you have settled in for a new year, we hope you will greet our student caller warmly, and remember that your gift can make the difference for a future pastor, doctor, Christian teacher or business person. Stay tuned for that very important call!

Future college president Payton Rowland, age 7, son of SNU alumni Toby (’95) and Jenni (Smith, ’96) Rowland; grandson of Terry (’79) and Judy (’73) Rowland.

succeed. I am certain I could call any of them and they would drop what they were doing to help me, even today. As a matter of fact, on occasion, I do just that.”

AlumniCade Preston, born 6/4/07 to Shane and Kari (Bellows, ’97) Lewis. He is wel-comed by sister, Avery Michelle.

Titus Watson, born 5/25/07 to Dan and Sara (Watson, ’98) Everett.

Kelsie Rae, born 6/14/07 to Ryan and Jessica (Frazier, ’98) Wayt.

Adelyn Ivy, born 2/1/07 to Aaron and RheaAnn (Link, ’99) Hines.

Connor Bradley, born 6/20/07 to Michael (’00) and Karen (Berg, ’99) Atkinson. He is welcomed by big brother, Nolan.

Garrison Dale, born 3/14/07 to Glen and Jennifer (Unruh, ’00) Groves. He is wel-comed by his sister, Madi.

Tabitha Ashley, born 1/30/07 to Aron and Melody (Anderson, ’01) Jones. She is

welcomed by sister, Nora Joy.

McCall Ann, born 6/17/07 to Jason (’02) and Katie (Farmer, ’00) Smith.

BirthsMilo Zinan, born 8/1/06 to Justin Jelinek and Laura Lewis (’91).

Keelie Grace, born1/01/07 to Mort (’94)and Suzanne (Dodgen, ’95) Roper. She is wel-

comed by sisters, Bethani and Eliza.

Ava Caroline, born 6/15/05 to Derek (’96) and

Tiffany (Rich, ’99) Dorris. She is welcomed by sister, Molly.

Rebekah Beryl, born 4/30/07 to Chris and Maureen (Myers, ’96) Koeppel. She is welcomed by sisters, Sarah and Elizabeth.

Andrew Michael and Kaylie Grace, born 7/30/07 to Michael

(’96) and Tara (Bellows, ’99) Tims.

Addison Sofia, born 3/24/07 to Jason (’96) and Tricia (Turner, ’00) Worthington. She

is welcomed by sisters, Holland and Savannah.

Gabriela Ann, born 9/6/05 to Daniel and Tracy (Allen, ’97) Hernandez.

Ty Nash, born 5/24/07 to Erin and Trent Toler (’02). Terry and Sue Toler are the proud grandparents!

Owen Ryan, born 11/16/05 to Ryan and Lindsey (Lee, ’02) Whitaker.

Gracen Quinn, born 1/4/02, and Payton James David, born 7/9/04 to Valerie and Kyle White (’03).

Riley Carter, born 9/19/05 to Robby (’04) and Kimberly (Spear, ’03) Patton.

Madelyn Esther, born 9/26/06 to James and Heather (Snowbarger, ’04) Wichersham.

MarriagesMeredith “Ted” Hollingsworth (’48) and Cynthia Phillips were married May 24, 2007.

Tracy Allen (’97) and Daniel Hernan-dez were married November 13, 2004.

Lori Weaver (’02) and Russell Watson (’95) were married June 16, 2007, in Noble, Oklahoma.

Kacie House (’02) and Seth Brown (’01) were married June 9, 2007.

Southern Light, a magazine of Southern Nazarene University (USPS 683.590), is published quarterly by the Office of AlumniRelations with the Office of Communications& Marketing, 6729 NW 39th Expressway, Bethany, OK 73008, and is distributed free to alumni and friends. Periodicals postage paid at Bethany, OK, and additional offices.

©2007. Reproduction of material from any Southern Light pages without written permission is strictly prohibited.

Vol. 21 Issue 1

Dr. Loren GreshamPresident

Dr. David AlexanderVice President

for University AdvancementBrenda Styers

Director of Alumni RelationsCarol Wight, Editor

Director of Communications & MarketingEunice Trent

Associate Director ofCommunications & Marketing

Nita WestDesigner

Judy Akins, Tyler ThomasCreative Consultants

www.snu.edu

In memoriamNina Ruth Pierson Hildie (’37)San Jose, CA • 12/6/06

Dwayne W. Hildie (’37)San Jose, CA • 6/18/07

Henry Green (’39)Terrell, TX • 7/16/07

Evelyn Littrell Eggen (’41)Elgin, IL • 5/25/07

Gloria Tibbelleen Sullivan Moore (’51)Jefferson, AR • 6/7/07

Orville Edward Williams (’53)Chickasha, OK • 8/22/07

H.W. Mayo (’55)Greenville, TX • 6/19/07

Phyllis Sands Quiroz (’64)Greensburg, KS • 1/22/06

Jerre Hale Billings (’65)Bethany, OK • 8/26/07

Rosella June Hinton (’71)Salem, OR • 6/2/07

Sylvette Riveria Geeding (’79)Wauwatosa, WI • 6/30/07

Want more Alumni News?Want to know more about classmates and other alums? Check out the AlumNews page on the SNU website. Log on to www.snu.edu/alumnews.

Inquiring mindswant to know!If you’re an alum, we’re interested in what you’re up to. Share news about weddings, births, deaths, graduations, promotions, jobs and such, and we’ll include as much as we can squeeze into Southern Light. Photos are welcome. Please include your class year.

SNU Office of Alumni Relations6729 NW 39th Expressway

Bethany, OK 73008alumni@snu.edu

The Father of theSNU Biology DepartmentDr. Robert Lawrence joined Bethany Peniel College in the fall of 1947. Recruited to teach biology, his resources consisted of a few supplies and one classroom. He equipped the department as he taught the vast majority of its courses, establishing a high level of expectation by demand-ing the very best of his students. Within a few short years, students were graduating with exceptional marks.

Following 21 years at SNU, Lawrence served at three other Nazarene universities before retiring. SNU honored Lawrence with special recognition during Homecoming 2004. Since Lawrence was unable to attend the event, students recorded and wrote messages of appreciation. Later, alumni personally delivered the award and messages to Lawrence in Laramie, WY, where he lived prior to his death May 13, 2007. SNU is grateful for Lawrence’s commitment to biology: a foundation upon which the department of science continues to build today.

RememberingDr. Robert Lawrence

Eugene and Opal Davis lived in Oklahoma City most of their lives, so they had plenty of oppor-tunities to observe the SNU faculty and students. Because they had always cared about Nazarene causes and wanted to do something good for South-ern Nazarene University, they met with Bethany attorney Jim Posey in 1993 to craft an estate plan.

The Davis’ new plan created a living trust that would provide for their loved ones, benefit their church and establish the B. Eugene and Opal M. Davis Scholar-ship Endowment at Southern Nazarene University. Mr. Davis passed away in 2002, and Mrs. Davis went to be with the Lord this past year. Recently, as the estate settled, SNU received more than $400,000 to begin new scholarships. Nephew and trust administrator, Larry Fauss, said of the plan, “For decades, it was Gene and Opal’s dream to help SNU students attain a quality education. By forming the living trust, they gave instructions for fulfilling their plan of an endowment fund.”

Through their lives – and now beyond – B. Eugene and Opal M. Davis have mod-eled faithfulness and biblical stewardship for Bethany and the SNU community. With appreciation and deep gratitude, we now celebrate their lives and their legacy. SNU students will benefit from their generosity for many years to come.

Sun Sets on CharitableIRA ProvisionA window of opportunity for taxpayers age 701⁄2 and older who want to give tax-free gifts directly from their IRA accounts will soon draw to a close. The Pension Protection Act of 2006 created new, limited-time tax incentives to encourage financial support of charitable organizations like SNU. This opportunity ends at the close of 2007. Under the law, you can make an outright gift from your IRA account with no undesirable tax effects. Normally you would have had to report any amount taken

from your IRA as taxable income and then take a charitable deduction for the gift (up to 50 percent of adjusted gross income).

For this limited time, you may give without tax consequences. Plus, this allows you to give a gift now – while you are living and able to witness the benefits of your generosity. To qualify, the gift must be no more than $100,000, and it must be made on or before December 31, 2007. Contact your IRA custodian to transfer your desired gift amount. We would be happy to visit with you personally and provide additional information. Simply contact development@snu.edu or call the Office for University Advancement at 405.491.6311 or 800.998.4768.

SNU donors create an enduring legacyDevelopment

Admissions PresentsLatino Visit DaysOctober 26, 2007November 2, 2007

Covenant Celebration andAlumni Chapter EventOctober 28, 2007Tulsa Central Churchof the Nazarene

EXCEL AuctionNovember 2, 2007National Cowboy &Western Heritage Museum

Homecoming 2007November 9–11, 2007

College DaysNovember 16–17, 2007January 25–26, 2008February 8–9, 2008March 7–8, 2008

Winter CommencementDecember 8, 2007

Spring Semester BeginsJanuary 22, 2008

Southern Nazarene University6729 NW 39th Expressway Bethany, OK 73008-2694

The LIGhT INSIDeFaLL 2007

Homecoming ’07The School of Education – Changing Lives!Faculty Achievements

On the coverPictured on the front are children of SNU alumni and staff: Payton Rowland, Future University President, son of Toby (’95) and Jennifer (’96) Rowland; Morgan Rothwell, Future Teacher, daughter ofTim (’94) and Janna (’95) Rothwell; Maya Rogers, Future School Administra-tor, daughter of Warren Rogers, Director of Admissions, and Jeena.PhotograPh by Marcia Feisel

(From page 2)

Frances (Bell, ’67) WrightDirector of Tutorial Center, Elim Christian Services, Palos Heights, Illinois

“The farmer went out to sow his seed. As he sowed, some fell along the road, and it was trampled underfoot, and the birds of the sky devoured it. Other seed fell on the rock, and as soon as it grew, it withered away, because it had no moisture. Other fell amid the thorns, and the thorns grew with it, and choked it. Other fell into the good ground, and grew, and brought forth fruit one hundred times.”

– From Jesus’ parable about the sower, luke 8

Frances Wright graduated from SNU during the 1960s – a decade historians have described as a time of tremendous discontinuity in our nation. All the more striking, then, is the stark contrast of a solid foundation that SNU offered during those days. Wright points to the solid training she received at the University, along with connections she made, as much of the reason for her early success in the teaching field.

“It was the solid training I had received at SNU and the recommendations of my professors that helped me to be so successful in my first teaching experiences,” she said. “I believe the time that professors took with students to listen, advise and just care about us was so important during our college career.”

Wright will celebrate her 40-year college reunion this fall at SNU. During the four decades since

her graduation, she has kept in touch with those professors who provided her with friendship and nurturing as well as spiritual and academic guidance. They include the late Dr. Wesley Moon, Dr. Forrest Ladd and Dr. Thurman Coburn. She plans to see Ladd at the reunion. Such rich relational gifts repre-sent the ancillary benefits of attending SNU, says Wright, who double majored in psychol-ogy and secondary education.

Shortly following graduation, she went on to earn a Master’s degree in special education of emotionally disturbed children from the University of Kansas. What followed was an impressive career teaching learning disability support classes in both public and Christian schools; teaching self-contained classes for emo-tionally disturbed children; and serving asa consultant for Children’s Hospital in Okla-homa City.

Today, Wright is the Director of Discovery Educational Center, a tutorial center in Paslos, Illinois, which is uniquely designed to address the tutoring needs of students with learning dis-abilities. “I am motivated by the improvement in skills that I see my students achieve,” she said.

Wright, who is also a minister’s wife, has lived in four locations where she and her husband have moved for ministry. “I have never wanted for a job in any of these locations,” she said. “Through my excellent training at SNU, my special educa-tion qualifications and God’s help, I have had many rewarding experiences as a teacher.”

Future school administrator Maya Rogers, age 4, daughter of SNU Admissions Director Warren and wife Jeena Rogers.

N O V E M B E R 9 - 1 1, 2 0 0 7

Schedule of Events10 am - 4 pm Marchant Family Alumni and Welcome Center Open House Visit the newest building on campus. Walk through Heritage Hall and view displays from the SNU School of Education. Visit with friends on the veranda and stroll through the Showalter Heritage Garden.

11 am Legacy Celebration, Bethany 1st Church of the Nazarene, Atrium All alumni and friends who were a part of SNU before 1957 are invited to join the Classes of 1937, 1942, 1947 and 1952 as they celebrate their 70th, 65th, 60th and 55th reunions.

12:30 pm Catalyst Luncheon Members of Catalyst and anyone interested in science and mathematics at SNU are invited to join faculty and students of the Division of Science and Mathematics for the annual Catalyst Luncheon. Following lunch, faculty and students will give updates on a few of the research projects sponsored by Catalyst. The generous giving of Catalyst members provides students and faculty with exceptional scientific opportunities in an environment that fosters deep Christian commitment. For further information, please contact the Division of Science and Mathematics by phone at 405.491.6372 or by email at catalyst@snu.edu.

12:30 – 2:30 pm Celebrating the SNU School of Education, Herrick, 1st Floor Visit with former and current faculty. Reminisce with fellow classmates about the memories made and show your family where you attended class and studied for exams. Light refreshments will be served.

2 pm Crimson Storm Football, Stadium located west of Council on NW 50th SNU vs. Northwest Oklahoma State

5 - 6 pm Campus Dining, Webster Commons, 3rd Floor Dinner is served in the Commons Campus Dining Hall for your convenience.

5 pm Teaching and Transforming for His Kingdom: Celebrating the SNU School of Education Dinner, Broadhurst Gymnasium Education alumni and their guests will enjoy a delightful evening remembering the faculty, classmates and events that shaped their lives and forged a lifetime of friendships.

7:30 pm Homecoming Showcase featuring Dr. Mark Reighard, Bethany First Church of the Nazarene Reserved Seating: $25, $15, $12 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 117:15 am President’s Prayer Breakfast, Webster Commons As Homecoming 2007 draws to a close, join Dr. Gresham, classmates and friends to celebrate the Christian values and principles this University was founded upon and continues to convey to students today. HOTELSCheck the SNU website at www.snu.edu/hotels for hotels near the SNU campus. TICKET INFORMATIONTickets may be purchased for Homecoming events at the SNU Office of Alumni Relations or online atwww.snu.edu/alumni (click on Online Event Registration). Mail orders are processed in the order of their receipt when accompanied by check or credit card information. Phone orders are accepted with payment by credit card. RESERVATION DEADLINE is Friday, October 26.

Ticket orders received by Wednesday, October 31 can be mailed for $1, or tickets can be picked up at Regis-tration. HOMECOMING SHOWCASE CONCERT SALES ARE FINAL. For all other tickets, full refunds will be issued if cancellations are received by October 26. NO REFUNDS AFTER OCTOBER 26. Please detach and mail reservation form with payment to: Southern Nazarene University Office of Alumni Relations 6729 NW 39th Expressway Bethany, OK 73008

For more information: PHONE: 405.491.6312 or 800.998.4SNU (4768) FAX: 405.717.6274 Email: alumni@snu.edu

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 89 pm Bonfire, SNU Football Complex (south parking lot) The eighth annual Homecoming Bonfire promises to set the tone for an exciting Homecoming Weekend. Pull on your coat, hat and gloves and join the SNU student body as we kick-off Homecoming 2007. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 98 am - Noon School of Business “Chat with the Execs,” Royce Brown Building Alumni talk with current students about careers and opportunities.

10 am - 4:30 pm Registration for Homecoming 2007, Webster Commons Come by Registration to pick up your tickets, nametags and weekend schedule of events. Visit with classmates and friends. Purchase new SNU and Alumni items.

10 am - 6 pm Self-Guided Walking Tour, SNU Campus Be sure to get your Walking Tour Guide when you register. This booklet will give you the history of buildings on campus, bringing back memories of days past. Stroll along the mall. Relax beside the fountain. View the wonderful sculptures. Take time to reminisce.

10 am Coronation of Homecoming King & Queen, Herrick Auditorium Directed by the Student Government Association, family and friends gather to honor seniors on the Homecoming Court and to crown the King & Queen.

12 Noon Missionary Luncheon, Marchant Center, Hearth Room This informal luncheon is open to all alumni and friends. Hear about SNU’s connection to missions and visit with retired/furloughed missionaries and missionary kids attending SNU. Reservations required. For more information, contact Dr. Howard Culbertson at 405.491.6693, or go online at snu.edu/missions.

1 - 4 pm School For Children Open House, School For Children Join the School For Children, an educa- tional laboratory for prospective teachers and a wonderful learning environment for students, during a creative literature study on the SNU mall. Alumni will enjoy observing this interactive learning experience. Tours of the School For Children also available. 3 - 5 pm Pre-game Rally at the Plaza, Southern Plaza Retirement Community Join SNU alumni and friends at Southern Plaza before the basketball games. Southern Plaza, an independent retirement community, is owned and operated by SNU. Located just three blocks south of campus at 3737 N. College, you are just a few minutes from the Sawyer Center. Tours available upon request.

5 - 7:30 pm Legacy Class Reunion Reception, Marchant Center, Hearth Room Members of the classes of 1937, 1942, 1947 and 1952, begin the reunion weekend at this special reception where you can reconnect with fellow classmates and friends. Enjoy the warm surroundings of the Hearth Room and reminisce as you view the displays from the SNU archives.

5:30 - 8:30 pm Registration for Homecoming 2007, Sawyer Center If you are coming in town just in time for the basketball games or class reunions, registration will be set up in the foyer of the Sawyer Center. Memorabilia will be on sale.

6 pm SNU Women’s Basketball, Sawyer Center Crimson Storm vs. Point Loma Nazarene University

8 pm SNU Men’s Basketball, Sawyer Center Crimson Storm vs. Doane

Reunion Gatherings, beginning at the Sawyer Center 1957, 1962, 1967, 1972, 1977, 1982, 1987, 1992, 1997 and 2002. Connect with classmates and friends during the basketball game at your class table on the 2nd floor of the arena (Class of ’57 will gather on the 3rd floor), and look for your class year in the stands to see where everyone is sitting. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 108 am - 1 pm Registration for Homecoming 2007, Webster Commons

9 am - 2 pm Reunion Class Breakfasts, Brunches and Lunches

If it is your year to celebrate a class reunion, plan nowto attend your class gathering. Watch your mail formore details or log onto www.snu.edu/alumni.

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FeaturesFeaturesReunions Classes of 1937, 1942, 1947, 1952, 1957, 1962,1967, 1972, 1977, 1982, 1987, 1992, 1997 and2002 will gather throughout the weekend.Don’t miss renewing acquaintances andcatching up with friends during these specialgatherings. You will receive additional reunioninformation if you are a part of one of thesereunion years. Class reunion schedules are also available on the SNU website atwww.snu.edu/alumni.

Legacy Celebration Luncheonwith special recognition of the Classes of1937, 1942, 1947 & 1952The Legacy Celebration Luncheon is a specialreunion that brings together friends and classmates from several classes. Over the years,the class lines begin to blur. “Did you graduatewith my class, or were you a year younger?”seems to be heard more often. The LegacyCelebration is a special reunion that brings together friends and classmates from several classes. Who should attend the Legacy Celebration? All alumni who graduated in 1956 or before AND those who attended during this time, but did not graduate, are invited to gather with classmates

HomecomingShowcaseSaturday, 7:30 pm,Bethany First Church of the NazareneThis year’s Homecoming Showcase features our own Dr. MarkReighard. You will enjoy his unique combination of humorous,classical and sacred musical inspiration. The alumni from theSNU School of Education will be recognized and AlumniAwards presented.

Teaching and Transformingfor His Kingdom:Celebrating the School of EducationSNU’s School of Education has sent out thousands of alumni into schools around the world where they have influenced children, parents and communities for the better. They’ve developed a multitude of lesson plans, graded piles of papers, given hours of instruction and encouraged a host of students. They’ve even returned to school to earn additional degrees and maintain certifications. Now it’s time to celebrate! Whether teaching has been your life-long profession or simply the degree that laid the foundation for where you are today, plan now to attend SNU Homecoming 2007 as we celebrate our alumni from the SNU School of Education.

School For Children Open HouseFriday, 1:00-4:00 pm, School for ChildrenJoin the School for Children Friday afternoon on the SNU Mall as they provide a creative learning experience using some of their favorite books and authors. Walk from tent to tent, observing student-teacher interac-tions guaranteed to stir memories of your days at SNU – as a student learning to teach, or as a child attending the SNU School For Children. Tours of the School For Children will also be available.

School of Education ReceptionSaturday, 12:30 - 2:30 pm, Herrick, 1st FloorReminisce with fellow classmates and friends. Visit with many former professors, including Dr. Joy Beaver, and the School’s current faculty. Roam the halls of Herrick and share “remember when” stories. Light refresh-ments will be provided.

School of Education Alumni DinnerSaturday, 5:00 pm,Broadhurst Gymnasium, Cost: $15 per personAlumni from the School of Education and their guest will enjoy a delicious meal with friends they have reconnected with during the weekend. We will recognize a number of alumni who have excelled in their fields. You can visit with past and current faculty, and Dr. Rex Tullis will share about the exciting future of SNU’s School of Education. Following the dinner, join a great group of alumni at the Showcase Concert, featuring SNU’s own Dr. Mark Reighard.

and friends. You will enjoy a delicious meal, great entertainment and outbursts of laughter as you reminisce about days gone by. We will give special recognition to the alumni from the classes of 1937, 1942, 1947 and 1952 as they celebrate their 70th, 65th, 60th and 55th reunion years. Mark your calendar for Saturday, November 10, at Bethany First Church Atrium at 11 am.

Crimson Storm Athletics Crimson Storm basketball and football continue the legacy of excel-lence on the court and on the field during Homecoming 2007. The Women’s basketball game will feature the Crimson Storm versus sister university, Point Loma on Friday, November 9, at 6:00 pm in the Sawyer Center. At 8:00 pm, the men’s team goes head to head with Doane.

The football game kicks off on Saturday, November 10, at2:00 pm at the SNU Football Stadium. The CrimsonStorm challenges Northwest Oklahoma State in the finalregularly scheduled game of the season.

Childcare OppportunitiesChildcare for infants through age 12 will be available atBethany First Church of the Nazarene on Saturday from9:30 am - 2 pm and again from 6:30 - 9:30 pm during theHomecoming Showcase. To guarantee a safe child-to-worker ratio, reservations are required by October 26.

Name ____________________________________________________________________________

Address __________________________________________________________________________ street city state zip

Email ____________________________________________________________________________

Phone ___________________________________________________________________________

Names for Nametags (include class year of alumni of SNU)

____________________________ Class of____ _________________________ Class of _______

____________________________ Class of____ _________________________ Class of _______

FR IDAY , NOVEMBER 9 Total No. AttendingMissionary LuncheonRetired/furlough missionaries ________ x n/c Missionary Kids (current students) ________ x n/cAll other Alumni and Friends _________x $6 = $ ___________ SNU Women’s Basketball vs. PLNU ANDSNU Men’s Basketball vs. Doane ________ x $6 adult = $ ___________ ________ x $4 student = $ ___________

Legacy Reunion Class ReceptionClass of 1937, 1942, 1947 & 1953 _________x $5 = $ ___________

Reunion Gatherings *Class of 1957 _______ x n/c = $ ___________ Class of 1962 _______ x n/c Class of 1967 ________ x n/c Class of 1972 ________ x n/c Class of 1977 ________ x n/c Class of 1982 ________ x n/c Class of 1987 ________ x n/c Class of 1992 ________ x n/c Class of 1997 ________ x n/c Class of 2002 ________ x n/c = $ ___________

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 10 Legacy Celebration, BFC Atrium ________ x $15 = $ ___________(Class of 1937, 1942, 1947, 1952 and all alumni who attended SNU before 1957)

Catalyst Luncheon ________ x $10 = $ ___________

Other Class Reunion Meals Class of 1957 ________ x $15 = $ ___________ Class of 1962 ________ x $15 = $ ___________ Class of 1967 ________ x $15 = $ ___________ Class of 1972 ________ x $15 = $ ___________ Class of 1977 ________ x $16 = $ ___________ Class of 1982 ________ x $15 = $ ___________ Class of 1987 ________ x $12 per adult = $ ___________ Class of 1987 ________ x $6 per child = $ ___________ Class of 1992 ________ x $15 = $ ___________ Class of 1997 ________ x $12 = $ ___________ Class of 1997 ________ x $6 per child = $ ___________ Class of 2002 ________ x $15 = $ ___________

Class Reunion Photos 4 x 6* ________ x $8 = $ ___________May also be ordered the day of the reunion. 5 x 7 _________ x $12 = $ ___________ 8 x 10 _________ x $15 = $ ___________*not recommended for groups of more than 25 people.

Crimson Storm Football vs. Northwest Oklahoma State ________ x $10 reserved = $ ___________ ________ x $6 adult = $ ___________ ________ x $4 student = $ ___________ Celebrating the SNU School of Education DinnerSNU School of Education alumni and their guests ________ x $15 = $ ___________

Homecoming Showcase (Individual Reserved Seating) _______ x $25 = $ ___________ ________ x $15 = $ ___________ ________ x $12 = $ ___________

Childcare: Saturday Reunion Events & Homecoming Showcase ConcertInfants through age 12. To guarantee a safe child-to-worker ratio, childcare will not be provided without advance reservations. Registration deadline: October 26

Saturday Reunion Events(9:30 am – 2 pm) # of children _______ x $20 = $ ___________

Homecoming Showcase Concert(6:30 pm) # of children _______ x $20 = $ ___________

Child’s name _______________________ Age _______ Child’s name _____________________________Age ______

Child’s name _______________________ Age _______ Child’s name _____________________________Age ______

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 11 President’s Prayer Breakfast ________ x $12 = $ ___________

Class of 1962 Lunch, BFC Chapel in the Round ________ x $14 = $ ___________

Mailing Tickets _________x $1 = $ ___________

Total Remitted $ ___________❑ Check enclosed payable to SNU Alumni Association

Please charge my: ❑ Visa ❑ Mastercard ❑ Discover ❑ American Express

Account #: ___________________________________ Exp. Date: _______________________

Name on Card ________________________________________________________________

Authorized Signature ___________________________________________________________

First and Last Name

First and Last Name

First and Last Name

First and Last Name

Join classmates on the 2nd floor of the Sawyer Center. Get reacquainted as you watch the game, look through yearbooks and share “remember when” stories. Don’t forget to purchase a ticket to the basketball game.

*Class of 1957 will meet on the 3rd floor of the Sawyer Center.

Reservations

Homeco

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Maximum per family $40Children 10 and under

[Maximum per family $40Children 10 and under

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