TURN YOUR RADIO ON

Tune In To 90.7 WEHC’s

New Power

BOB JOHNSON REMEMBERED

plus HOMECOMING 2009

Emory & HenryTHE ALUMNIMAGAZINE

WINTER 2010

During his 30 years at Emory & Henry, Bob Johnson mentored and befriended countless students and colleagues. See page 34 for a tribute to Coach Johnson.

Alumni Association Board of DirectorsMatt Hankins ’94, PresidentBob Cline ’69, Immediate Past PresidentGreg Hagee ’86, Vice-PresidentAnne Gerard Carty ’76, Tenn.Jenny Poston Bishop, ’93, Tri-Cities (Tenn.)Steve Walker ’72, New River ValleyJudie Eller ’70, Shenandoah ValleyAllison Mays Wilburn ’95, Washington CountyPatsy Fitts Reed ’70, Smyth CountyMargaret Turman Kidd ’98, RichmondBill Naehle ’82, Northern Virginia Pat Shrader ’93, North CarolinaMike Sullivan ’68, Tidewater/PeninsulaKell Mason ’95, PiedmontCover photo: Teresa Keller at radio tower site. Photo by Dave Grace

The Alumni MagazineDirk Moore, EditorMonica S. Hoel ’85, Alumni EditorJamie Smyth, Graphic Designer, Writer

Contributors Dave Grace, PhotographerJed Arnold, WriterNathan Graybeal ’82, Writer, PhotographerAlicia Phelps ’06, Photographer, WriterRhonda Widener, Writer, Clerical Support

The Alumni Magazine is published quarterly for alumni, parents and friends of Emory & Henry College. Send news, letters or change of address to the following:

The Alumni MagazineEmory & Henry CollegePO Box 950Emory, Virginia 24327-0950Phone: 276-944-6126 E-mail: alumni@ehc.eduWebsite: www@ehc.edu

Jon Crutchfield ’91, Roanoke ValleyRuth Wilson Blankenship, Mountain EmpireLee Lane McCloud ’92, West VirginiaChuck Alexander ’89, D.C./MarylandScott Sikes ’99, Current DecadeJanuary Haile ’04, Current DecadeDuke Thomas ’90, 1990s Rep.Anne Thomas-Abbott ’89, 1980s Rep.David St. Clair ’73, 1970s Rep.Dean Newman ’62, 1960s Rep.Sue Young Payne, ’51, 1950s Rep.Sally Sprinkle Bentley ’54, Gold ClubKelly Espy ’94, Alumni Volunteer Aux.Cyndi Jennings ’91, At-LargeMary-Margaret Justis ’69, At-Large

sectionsCOVER STORY:TURN YOUR RADIO ON WEHC Expands Coverage

features

BOB JOHNSONRevered Coach Remembered

2 President’s Message

6 On The Campus

10 Sports Highlights

14 Institutional Advancement

18 Alumni Association

22 With the Alumni

32 In Memoriam

36 Emory Memory

3

33

HOMECOMINGA Memory-Making Weekend

16

Emory & HenryTHE ALUMNIMAGAZINE

WINTER 2010

Fro

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Dear Emory & Henry Alumni and Friends,

Daniel Hudson Burnham, one of the most well-

known and successful American architects at the turn of

the 20th century, said, “Make big plans; aim high in hope

and work.” This is essentially what I told the faculty and

staff during my first year at Emory & Henry. I asked them

to ‘think big’ and set high goals for themselves and for the

College. No one took this exhortation to heart more than

Dr. Teresa Keller as she worked with the community to

plan for and realize her dream of a college and community

radio station with expanded programming and a wider

geographical reach. You will learn more about the results

of thinking big with Dr. Keller in this alumni magazine’s

feature article entitled, “Turn Your Radio On.”

“Make big plans.” How important it is for us to set

high expectations for ourselves individually and for the

College? Our founders did that in the 1830s when they

dreamed of “a new manual labor school on one of the

upper branches of Little Holston Creek.” At the end of

the Civil War in 1865, the trustees set high goals when

they planned to reopen Emory & Henry within a few

months of the surrender at Appomattox and to rebuild the

College’s enrollment to pre-war levels. The nearly complete

rebuilding of campus facilities in the early 1900s and the

growth of the College’s endowment in the 1990s and

2000s are additional examples of making big plans and

implementing those plans.

The faculty, staff,

students, and alumni of

Emory & Henry College

continue today to “aim high

in hope and work.” You

will read about setting high

goals and achieving them in

this magazine. From student

Barrow Wheary’s ambition

to pursue a professional

career as a fiddler to

Professor Dawsey’s goal to

write a Civil War era novel, from student Caleb Jennings’

determination to excel in football to alumnus Tyler

Haslem’s journey to practice law, from the College’s Barter

Theatre agreement to its high ranking by Forbes magazine,

the stories contained in the following pages will remind

you of the true character of Emory & Henry and its people.

The history of Emory & Henry is filled with examples

of the campus community dreaming big dreams and

realizing those dreams. Sometimes the challenges were

overwhelming. But the community always came together

to do what was necessary to fulfill its responsibility to past,

current, and future generations of students. We can and

will do no less.

The College has realized some of its big dreams in

the last few years—a new General Education Program,

renovations to Wiley and Byars, a new athletic stadium

field, new residence halls, to name a few examples. We

still have big projects to complete and new dreams to

dream. I often reflect on the well-known response to

faculty and staff of a former president of a nearby college

when told that something could not be done. He would

say, “Is it impossible or just difficult?” The message was

clear—we must work to realize our dreams even when

they seem daunting to accomplish.

You, our alumni and friends, always talk about

this College as a special place, a place where you and/

or someone you know transformed their lives and made

lifelong friends. This continues for our students today

because our alumni and friends of the past challenged

themselves and the College to think big. With your

help—financial and in other ways—we will continue this

tradition, realize our current dreams for E&H, and make

additional big plans for the future.

With Kindest Regards

Rosalind Reichard, Ph.D.

President

Emory & Henry’s WEHC-FM 90.7 muscled into regional broadcasting Oct. 26, increasing power in an instant to nearly 9,000 watts. Licensed to serve the public interest, the station reinforces Emory & Henry’s signature history of commitment to community service. Against a windy, brilliant autumn panorama at the edge of campus overlooking I-81, President Rosalind Reichard and Mass Communications Chair Dr. Teresa Keller welcomed Congressman Rick Boucher, Delegate Joe Johnson, contributors, trustees, sponsors, and student and community broadcasters to 90.7’s transmitter site. A new 197-foot tower loomed overhead. An ebullient Reichard counted the school “doubly blessed by the presence of those who support the College and the community. We appreciate your confidence and commitment. Emory & Henry is known for community service, and we hope our expanded college and community programming will serve the public interest more effectively.” Citing the efforts of Phil Puckett, William Wampler and Joe Johnson, she expressed enthusiasm for support from the Virginia Tobacco Commission, “which, for the College, creates an opportunity to train local folks in a highly technological way.” She reserved special praise for Johnson, who led in the efforts to secure funding for the workforce project. “You have been a tireless supporter of this institution—a voice for this day and this effort—and we thank you.” President Reichard further conveyed gratitude to the E&H Board of Trustees and District Supervisor Tom Taylor, before zeroing in on “spark plug” Dr. Keller. “We appreciate the energy she’s brought to this endeavor. It’s been a dream of hers which started in the 1990s.” “I am delighted to see all of you,” exclaimed Keller. “This day represents the best of Emory & Henry in providing opportunities for students and celebrating the wonderful community around us. Our mission is reflected in the station slogan: ‘WEHC. Your College and Community Station.’” But this day was some time coming. Keller first came to Emory & Henry 24 years ago and took over leadership of the college radio station. She began exploring ways to develop the station and, step by step, opportunities presented themselves to make the operation a little bigger and a little better. When Reichard became president, she encouraged Keller to “dream big” and gave her support for the recent expansion. Keller added, “As professors, teachers and mentors, we work and strive to prepare our students for the real world. Well, the real world has arrived at nearly 9,000 watts! And it’s going to help Emory & Henry spread the word about what a wonderful college and community we have. Also, very importantly, it’s going to spread a non-commercial alternative voice of radio to the region.”

‘Turn Your Radio On’:

WEHC 90.7 Launches Regional Broadcasting Over Five Counties

continued on next page

PHOTOS BY DAVE GRACE

by Robert WeisfeldClass of 1976

ALUMNI WINTER 2010

Emory & Henry’s radio station began in 1929 and was one of the first to go on air in The Commonwealth. The College sold the station during the Depression, but its call letters were still available when Keller made an application in 1991. WEHC 90.7 went on air in 1992, first broadcasting on 100 watts, replacing an older carrier current system. The power went up to 500 watts by 2007, and the College initiated a partnership with the Virginia Tech Foundation to broadcast WVTF’s Radio I.Q. along with local programming. With the arrangement, a broader regional audience opened up for both stations. WEHC relied on WVTF’s Paxton Durham, a recipient of the 2005 Freeman Award for excellence in broadcasting, to provide engineering guidance and to recommend, help purchase, and install equipment. Keller also acknowledged the efforts and cooperation of WVTF General Manager Glenn Gleixner, who expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership. “If you want to get something done,” Gleixner said, “get involved with Rick Boucher, Teresa Keller, Roz Reichard and Joe Johnson.” Gleixner emphasized the importance of public radio as a form of public service that connects with the community through programming. The democratic flow of ideas stimulates conversations, thoughts and action that might not normally occur.

The Tobacco Commission, and tobacco, turns out to have been very important to this radio station process, according to Delegate Johnson. “Tobacco was probably once raised on this very land where we stand. Money from tobacco helped pay my tuition to Emory & Henry,” recalled the Hayter’s Gap native turned Washington County fixture. “Now, many years later, The Commission and Emory & Henry are able to bring to the community something which I believe will prove invaluable. WEHC will enrich the community. I’m thankful and proud I can be here.” Tobacco Commission support helps establish a training program that gives students, faculty, staff and community members access to radio and audio technology that may additionally be applied to local business websites. Commission support also funds a station manager position, newly held by Richard Graves, a 2008 graduate of the E&H Mass Communications Department. Graves praised the local programming featured on WEHC: “Our region has such a unique culture, so many unique voices,

and our station is very proud to take that local music and culture–those very distinct voices you can’t find anywhere else besides Southwest Virginia–put that on the air and showcase it.” Boucher was a working partner in getting the power increase obtaining approximately $188,000 from the U.S. Department of Commerce for the construction of radio facilities. Pointing to the 197-foot tower that was built with that money, the Congressman said, “You’ve heard of a room with a view? This is a transmitter with a view! Look at the spectacular region it showcases.” “Beginning today, area listeners who enjoy commercial-free radio will have access to a wide variety of local programming and community information,” Boucher said. “I consider WEHC a tremendous cultural enhancement of Southwest Virginia and East Tennessee.”

Boucher was quick to give credit to Keller, “a former college educator of the year in Virginia, whom I would describe as richly deserving.” Then something perfectly fitting occurred, accompanied by cheers and applause. Diminutive 91-year-old Susie Quarles Allison (’39) was acknowledged for years of station support. Then, at the flick of a switch, this former student-turned-benefactor sent WEHC radio waves transmitting over a radius exceeding five counties: north to Richlands, Va.; south to Mountain City, Tenn.; east to Rural Retreat, Va.; and west to Blountville, Tenn. The Alexandria alumna’s 1991 donation of equipment revived interest in WEHC while it recalled her deep passion for both the College and the station. Her late husband, Hampton, met Susie at the College, where he began his broadcast career, before subsequently devoting his entire life to radio. The 90.7 launch marked Susie Allison’s first time on air. “So this is a great thing for me, because I’ve been thinking about it all my life. And it feels wonderful to do it!”

Del. Joe Johnson and Susie Quarles Allison; Station Manager Richard Graves; Congressman Rick Boucher; Roz Reichard and Teresa Keller.

“We serve the public interest by informing and entertaining our audience, and we hope to bring much positive attention to the wonderful accomplishments of Emory & Henry students, faculty and staff.” —Dr. Teresa Keller

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Gauging and grooming student talent and interest, Keller has also recruited a group of community personalities to host broadcasts. The latter group includes former Glade Spring Town Councilman Jim Barker, E&H professor emeritus Steve Fisher, Bristol BCMA and Crooked Road official Tim White, and Radford University sociology professor Rana Duncan-Daston. Abingdon’s roster numbers former Abingdon Town Planner Al Bradley, Barter Theatre Outreach Director Evalyn Baron, alumnus and Star Museum owner Robert Weisfeld and physician/musician Mark Handy. Emory & Henry show hosts include Alumni Director Monica Hoel, instructional technologist Harry Baya and Dr. Aris Winger, an E&H math professor who hosts “The Flagship,” a popular program that seeks to confront sensitive issues. The station also carries live broadcasts and online coverage of E&H football and basketball. Keller said, “We serve the public interest by informing and

Graves “thrilled” to be Newly Appointed Station Manager

The newly appointed station manger

Richard Graves served as assistant

manager of WEHC-FM for four

years while pursuing degrees in mass

communications and psychology from

the College. He also completed an

office and event internship at WNNX

99.7 FM, Cumulus radio, in Atlanta, Ga.

”My experience as assistant manager

will help me transfer into my new

position as I train staff, edit audio, help

broadcast sports, and contribute to our

already excellent programming,” Graves

said.

While attending Emory, Graves won

the prestigious Boyd Scholarship from

the Holston Association of Broadcasting,

an award that acknowledged his

experience with WEHC.

“I’m thrilled to be serving as station

manager for an upgraded WEHC,”

Graves said. “I feel the station has an

opportunity to provide an increasingly

valuable service to the surrounding

community, while at the same time

reflecting the unique voices and culture

of the region,” added Graves. v

entertaining our audience, and we hope to bring much positive attention to the wonderful accomplishments of Emory & Henry students, faculty and staff.” Genres of programming include music from opera to Broadway to bluegrass to China pop, plus commentary on politics, psychology, medicine and education. Programming also includes live remotes, presenting live regional music one Thursday evening per month from Meadowview’s Harvest Table restaurant. National NPR and international BBC programming are also heard on Emory’s station via Radio I.Q. “They say to be careful what you ask for,” Keller said. “The inauguration of the new, more powerful WEHC represents a huge challenge for me, the students and the administration. I hope we can rise to the occasion and make sure the signal serves the College with great quality programming and good community relations for many years to come.” v

The new radio tower under construction (above) and a Mass Communications student at the controls of 9,000 watts of power.

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ALUMNI WINTER 2010

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A rare portrait of the late Bishop John Emory, which dates back to the founding of Emory & Henry, has been restored after being found two years ago in the attic of an historic campus building. The portrait, which features the namesake of

Emory & Henry and Emory University in Atlanta, is “one of a kind,” since it is the only painting of the man done later in his life and still in existence, according to E&H archivist Robert Vejnar.

Portrait of John Emory, before and after restoration

College Finds, Restores Rare Portrait of Bishop John Emory

The oil painting, which is dated 1838, the year classes began at Emory & Henry, is the work of portrait artist George Cooke and was completed three years after Emory’s death. It is thought to be copied from a painting done by American artist Thomas Sully likely shortly after Emory was made a bishop in the Methodist Church in 1832. The portrait was discovered by an E&H housekeeper in the attic of Wiley Hall during the building’s recent renovation. It had been punctured and had suffered damage from extreme hot and

continued on next page

An Emory & Henry student has been gaining attention as he apprentices under a champion fiddler. Barrow Wheary, of Richmond, Va., has been featured in numerous publications and is also a member of The Helltown Breakdowners band, which has played at several venues across the state. Recently, he was featured in a photograph with his teacher, Mark Campbell, and was praised as a promising fiddler in “View,” a publication of the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities. An accompanying story highlights three grants that will assist in the exploration of Virginia’s musical heritage. The grants will result in new recordings, publications and exhibits exploring music traditions and their continuing vitality. Barrow is a senior working toward a degree in English while independently pursuing a career in music. Banjo and fiddle music were an especially memorable part of his childhood, but over the years, his love for old time and roots music has grown, as has his collection of early recordings. Wheary hosts “The Lee Highway Review” on the E&H radio station. v

E&H Student Keeps Time with Appalachian Music Traditions

Barrow Wheary

ALUMNI WINTER 2010

Imagine a civil war hero who despises slavery, yet traffics people. A Southern hero, but also a coward. A runaway aching for home with ties to Emory, Va. E&H professor of religious studies James M. Dawsey composed such traits into the world of Witfield Stone in his most recent novel, Masters and Savages. Witfield is entrusted with transporting contract laborers from Africa to Brazil as his father and members of the Southern Land and Immigration Society plan to reconstruct their lost fortunes. Along his journey, Witfield makes connections, one of which is Emory & Henry College, as he takes special interest in the fate of 11-year-old Fatima. Plagued with disease, a trip across the seas spells disaster as Witfield is forced to make the decision of freedom over cargo for the child he is protecting. An observer is prompted to question Witfield’s motive of staking the last vestiges of his crumbling humanity on saving this particular child among so many.

The flavor of Washington County permeates the story. Witfield’s memories recapture Abingdon, Emory & Henry and the Holston Valley. Above all, the author tells about the South. This is a story of yesterday filled with themes of racial, sexual and class tensions; the issues of slavery, war, and conflicts external and internal. Dawsey is

the author of works of theology and history, including The Confederados: Old South Immigrants in Brazil; From Wasteland to Promised Land: Liberation Theology for a Post-Marxist World; The Lukan Voice: Confusion and Irony in the Gospel of Luke from Mercer University Press; and many other monographs and articles in English, Spanish and Portuguese. Dawsey is an ordained minister in the South Carolina Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. v

Vision without action is meaningless, but vision with action can change the world, according to a consultant in organizational leadership who spoke to the Emory & Henry community at the start of the 2009-2010 academic year. Emory & Henry has detailed a strong vision for its future, one that casts the College as a national leader in transforming lives and creating positive social change. But, according to Dr. Brenda White Wright, the fulfillment of this “wonderful” vision is in the hands of every individual associated with the College. “Each of you is Emory & Henry,” Wright told an audience of some 250 E&H students, administrators and faculty members. “And each of you is important” to the realization of that vision. Speaking to college employees, Wright said, “Everybody here is an educator, because you are … a living epistle.” She praised Emory & Henry for its commitment to students (Emory & Henry was the first school where students had been included in her discussions) and President Reichard for a deep understanding of the worth of the individual toward the fulfillment of organizational goals. v

Dawsey Novel Tells of Life Choices During Civil War

Dr. James Dawsey

Wright: Vision with Action Can Change the World

Dr. Brenda White Wright

cold temperatures. In 2008, the artwork was sent to the Richmond Conservation Studio in Richmond, Va., where it underwent a successful restoration. It now hangs in the E&H president’s house. Vejnar describes the portrait as “breathtaking,” both in terms of its quality and its historical significance to the United Methodist Church and the institutions named for its subject. “The founders of Emory & Henry College made an important financial sacrifice to have this portrait done. They obviously felt very

strongly about the matter,” Vejnar said. Born in 1789 in Queen Anne’s County, Md., Emory graduated from Washington College in Maryland in 1805. He passed the Maryland Bar three years later at the age of 19 and gave up law after a year to pursue the ministry. Throughout his career, Emory was recognized as a gifted and talented preacher and writer in the Methodist Episcopal Church. He envisioned an American education that molded character as well as the mind. He died at the age of 46 from injuries sustained in a carriage accident. v

John Emory - continued

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Four members of the Emory & Henry community were honored during convocation exercises for their extraordinary service to the institution and the community. The Emory & Henry College Travel Grant is awarded annually to the full-time, non-retired faculty member or administrative officer holding faculty status who has served the College for the longest period of years. Since 1984, Jane Caldwell has served as the reference librarian and as assistant director of the Kelly Library. During those twenty-five years, she served three times as interim library director. She received a master’s degree in library science from the University of Kentucky and graduated magna cum laude with majors in history and French from West Virginia University. She also coordinates library orientation activities for new students and faculty. The Exemplary Teaching Award is given annually by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry of the United Methodist Church to a member of the faculty who has demonstrated outstanding achievement in teaching at a United Methodist-related institution of higher learning. Dr. Talmage Stanley graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor of arts degree in history from Emory & Henry. He earned a master’s of divinity degree from the Candler School of Theology at

Seven theme houses on the Emory & Henry campus are combining residential life and academics with the hope of improving both for students. The campus theme houses for women include Performing Arts, Math and Science, Healthy Living, Spiritual Life and Eco houses. Men’s theme housing includes Eco and Spiritual Life houses. Women in the Math and Science House believe they are building on the character of the math and science departments as well as the women who choose those majors. The men and women of the eco houses assume responsibilities for recycling, stewardship, conservation and sustainability. “The houses make for a great atmosphere because they become a central hub of similar ideas. It’s like home— having your own little family on campus,” said Nancy Kisselburgh, president of the

E&H Builds Community through Themed Housing

Four Employees Honored at E&H ConvocationEmory University and a Ph.D. in American studies in the Institute of Liberal Arts at Emory University, where he was a Mellon Dissertation Fellow in Southern Studies. An ordained United Methodist Minister, Stanley serves as director of the Appalachian Center for Community Service, chair of the College’s Department of Public Policy and Community Service, and director of the Bonner Scholars Program. He also directs the master’s of arts program in Community and Organizational Leadership. The Earnest E. and Elizabeth C. Maiden Award was established in 1975 in honor of the Maidens and in appreciation for their lives of service to the community, the church and Emory & Henry College. The award is made annually to a member of the faculty or staff in recognition of unusual academic or administrative achievement. Lorraine Abraham began her service at Emory & Henry College in 2000 and serves as the chief information officer and director of the Kelly Library. She was the principal writer and project director of a successful U.S. Department of Education Title III grant for $1.8 million, which helped upgrade nearly every piece of technology on the Emory & Henry campus. She is an adjunct instructor at the College and has served as a Southern Association of Colleges and Schools evaluator for 40 education institutions. Abraham is a magna cum laude graduate

of Armstrong Atlantic State University with a bachelor of arts degree in history. She received a master’s degree in library and information science from the University of South Carolina and a master of arts in history from The Ohio State University, where she has completed doctoral coursework. The William Carrington Finch Award for Faculty Excellence was first presented in 1989 in honor of Dr. Finch, fifteenth president of Emory & Henry College. It is given biennially to a member of the faculty who has shown excellence in teaching, writing, research, or artistic performance and who has contributed to the life of the College. Dr. Linda Dobkins has been a member of the Emory & Henry faculty since 1996. She earned her Ph.D. and a master of arts degree from Virginia Tech. She received a master of science degree with honors from Pittsburg State University in Kansas, and a bachelor of arts degree magna cum laude from Missouri Southern State University. She has served on the President’s Task Force on Strategic Planning and was instrumental in helping to revise the curriculum as a leader on the General Studies Review Committee. In 2008 she received the Exemplary Teaching Award by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry from the United Methodist Church. v

Theme House Council. The theme houses sponsor events which include students from non-theme

residences, such as an organic food cookout, Pancake Saturdays and Healthy Meals on Sundays. v

Students enjoy the opportunity to combine their academic interests with their social lives in themed housing.

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Cast members of the E&H Theatre Department production of “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” worked with Broadway music director Jack Lee as they explored performance techniques. Lee attended a rehearsal for the musical and worked with the cast members on several of the musical numbers from the show. In addition, students Brandon Bentley, Suzie Eskelund and Kalin Honaker

Forbes magazine has once again placed Emory & Henry College among the top colleges and universities in the country, according to its 2009 rankings. Emory & Henry ranked 102 out of 3,798 institutions nationwide and was among the top-ranked Virginia institutions on the list. It was the only college or university in its region to be among the top 600 selected for the ranking. Emory & Henry also ranks among the top 100 private institutions in the country, according to Forbes. Forbes’ ranking was based on more than 7 million student evaluations. In addition, the magazine looked at how many of the school’s alumni, adjusted for the size of the school, are listed among notables in Who’s Who in America, and also at ratings on the website Ratemyprofessor.com. Their ranking method also included debt level at graduation, the percentage of students graduating in four years, and the number of students or faculty who have won state and nationally competitive awards. The Forbes ranking is the only college ranking that combines all colleges and universities in the nation in one category and compares them. This year marks the second consecutive year of the rankings. Last year, Emory & Henry placed 98th. v

Kevin Heideman, a junior accounting major at Emory & Henry from Lynchburg, Va., has been selected to represent the College on a statewide advisory council focusing on connecting private college students with top Virginia banks and corporations for internship and employment opportunities. CAREER15 is an innovative job placement network for students enrolled at the 15 private colleges and universities which are members of the statewide consortium supported by the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges

Accounting Major Keideman Tapped for Statewide Career Council

(VFIC). Each institution is represented by one student selected on the basis of academic achievement and leadership on campus. CAREER15, launched by the VFIC last year and offered through the College’s career services office, was designed as a cost-efficient and time-efficient way to connect Virginia’s private college students with potential employers. Students and companies connect through postings on a central website – www.career15.com – and through regional events which bring students and employers face-to-face. v

Emory & Henry has been named one of the top “military friendly” schools in the nation by G.I. Jobs. The list honors the top 15 percent of colleges, universities and trade schools that are doing the most to embrace America’s veterans as students. Schools on the list range from state universities and private colleges to community colleges and trade schools. The common bond is their shared priority of recruiting students with military experience. The list was compiled through exhaustive research starting last May during which G.I. Jobs polled more than 7,000 schools nationwide. v

College Named a Top Military Friendly SchoolPictured, from left to right, are: Biliana Stoytcheva-Horissian, Anna Nichols, Russ Kerr, Michal Isenberg, Seth

Evans, Jack Lee, Kalin Honaker, Suzie Eskelund, Brandon Bentley and Christianne Roll.

E&H Theatre Cast Works with Legendary Broadway Director During Its Latest Production

worked one-on-one with Lee during a vocal master-class. “In this class, the students worked on truthfully conveying the vocal line and storyline of musical theater songs,” said E&H theatre professor Christianne Roll. Lee has served as musical director for 34 Broadway shows and is currently a faculty member in the drama department of New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. v

Forbes Continues to Rank E&H Among Top Institutions Emory & Henry recruited this fall

the second largest incoming class in the College’s history, adding 374 new students to its rolls and boosting total enrollment to more than 1,000 students. The total number of new students totaled 374, up from 354 new students the previous recruitment season. In only one year, 2005, did the College have a better recruitment season, when it added a record 420 new students to its fall rolls.

College Recruits Second Largest Incoming Class in Its History

The enrollment figures for this year includes 291 first-year students and represents the third-highest figure for first-year enrollees in E&H history. In 2005, the number of first-year students totaled 338. In 1998, the total was 302. Overall enrollment during the fall of 2009 stood at 1,002, up from 980 the previous year. In 2005, total enrollment stood at 1,120, the highest enrollment in the College’s history. v

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Jennings Named Div. III All-American Emory & Henry's star running back Caleb Jennings has been named a Division III First Team All-American by the American Football Coaches Association, one of a long list of prestigious honors for the celebrated Richlands, Va., athlete. Jennings was also named State Player of the Year in the College Division by the Virginia Sports Information Directors and State Offensive Player of the Year in the College Division by the Roanoke Times. Jennings was also honored with the prestigious Lanier Award (formerly the Dudley), earning him the distinction of Virginia State Player of the Year-College Division. He earned Offensive Player of the Year by the ODAC Conference and by the Richmond Touchdown Club and was named First Team All-ODAC and First Team All-State. The E&H junior, who has become one of the most decorated E&H football athletes, ranked third nationally this year in all-purpose yards with 1,919 and seventh nationally in rushing with an average of 137.1 yards per game. He also led the ODAC in rushing, all-purpose yards and rushing touchdowns (14). He was twice named ODAC Offensive Player of the Week and was also named to the D3football Team of the Week. In 2008, he was named to the honorable mention list of the All-American Team as a return specialist. During the past two seasons he has totaled 4,080 all-purpose yards. He helped lead the Wasps to a 7-3 season in 2009, the team's best record since 2000. As a member of the First Team of the VaSID Virginia All-State Squad as both a running back and a return specialist, he helped his team to the lead position in the number of players named to the list of honorees. Punter T.J. Frazier also was named to the first team while four other players were named to the Second Team, including tight end Corey Shepherd, offensive lineman James Hairston, linebacker Ed Smith and defensive back Tyler Brown. v

Football Team Has

Best Season in Nine Years The E&H football team experienced two important turning points this season—one down and one up—that ultimately led to a 7-3 season, the best finish for the Wasps since 2000. The first turning point was during Homecoming. The Wasps played strong against eventual conference champion Hampden-Sydney but failed to capitalize on several opportunities that could have taken them to victory. Hampden-Sydney won 23-12. Up until that game, Emory & Henry had gone 4-0 against non-conference teams and, in two of those games, celebrated stunning come-from-behind victories achieved in the final seconds. Perhaps the most memorable game of the season was against North

Carolina Wesleyan. Heading into the fourth quarter, the Wasps found themselves down three touchdowns, 7-28, to the team that had defeated powerhouse

Salisbury University a week earlier. The Bishops had to that point been dominating the E&H offense

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and flummoxing the E&H defense. Perhaps the only motivation that fans had to remain in their seats was the knowledge that on many occasions the Wasps had been here before, and won. The Wasps had scored three touchdowns and reduced their deficit to five points when quarterback Drew Piscopo connected with Corey Shepherd for a 30-yard pass that took the Wasps to the NCW 18-yard line. With six seconds remaining Piscopo reached out to Anthony Sims, who, wide-open in the endzone, made the catch that gave his team a 36-34 win. The sweetness of that victory made the disappointment of the loss to Hampden-Sydney all the more bitter. With that loss to the undefeated Tigers who had already faced down several ODAC teams, the Wasps faced a hard climb to a conference title. Emory & Henry would go on to lose its next two games—against Randolph-Macon and Bridgewater. The second turning point for the Wasps came with a 13-10 victory over Catholic University in Washington, D.C. Pulling out a tough victory far from home lifted the Wasps as they took on their final opponents of the season, Washington and Lee University and Guilford College, both of whom they defeated. While claiming its best season in nine years, the E&H football team also improved on its 6-4 record from 2008. At the same time, the team will carry into next season star running back Caleb Jennings, who ran for more than 1,300 yards this season and proved to be one of the top Division III players in the country. v

Caleb Jennings ranked 3rd nationally with 1919 all-purpose yards.

Caleb Jennings

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Sports Hall of Fame honorees include athletes, coaches, managers, sportswriters, team physicians and other individuals. A committee, sanctioned by the E&H Alumni Association, accepts nominations and selects inductees. The 2009 inductees include the following: Myra Hudson Baumgardner (’73) of Concord, N.C., is an at-work facilitator for Weight Watchers. Baumgardner was also the 1977 conference volleyball coach of the year while at Lynn View Middle School in Kingsport, Tenn., 1979 and 1980 basketball coach of the year at Charlotte Mecklenburg and 1990 and 1991 volleyball coach of the year for the South Piedmont conference. While a student at Emory & Henry, she served as a spiker and hitter for the volleyball team as well as a forward for the women’s basketball team from 1969 to 1973. She served as basketball team captain in 1973, volleyball team co-captain for the 1971 and 1972 seasons as well as team captain for the women’s tennis team. In 1971, the E&H volleyball team claimed the Virginia State Championship in all divisions, defeating the likes of James Madison University, William and Mary and South Carolina State University. Baumgardner has served as president of the PTA and PTO of O’Dell Elementary, Northwest Cabarrus Middle and High Schools, president of Cabarrus County Parent Council and Piedmont Interclub Tennis Association, trustee member of Carolinas Medical Northeast, and coach of Cabarrus County Special Olympics. Derek Elmore (’94) of Forest is a computer teacher and head men’s basketball coach at Holy Cross High School in Lynchburg, Va. Elmore was a four-year starter for the

E&H men’s basketball team, with a career average of 10.3 points per game, 355 career assists and 313 career rebounds. He scored 1,210 career points and holds a school record of participating in 117 career games. From 1990 to 1993, the team won 20 or more games each year, making four post-season NCAA appearances. In 1993, Emory & Henry was named the ODAC regular season champions and participated in the NCAA Sweet 16 Tournament. Jamie Harless (’98) of Roanoke is a building trades instructor for the Roanoke County school system and a

former special education and building trades instructor for Franklin County schools. He has been nominated several times for teacher of the year awards, and is currently working on a program for developing character and leadership for secondary students. He serves on the Roanoke County Schools Crisis Prevention Committee. He has worked for Franklin County Habitat for Humanity and has served on the Franklin County Dropout Prevention Committee. Harless played on four consecutive football ODAC championship teams, collecting more than 20 quarterback sacks, 39 tackles for a loss and 225 career tackles while causing nine fumbles. He was a two-time first team All-ODAC and first team All-State in the College Division

II and III and NAIA. In 1995, he was third team All-American and, in 1997, first team All-American, and was listed on first team for four different AA selection committees. Harless also was the Richmond Touchdown Club State Defensive Lineman of the Year for Division II and III and participated in the Aztec Bowl in Mexico City, which was the first international all-star game played with NCAA participants. Jewel Alvin Rhea (’69) of Marion is a former head track coach for teams that won the Clinch Valley District Championship in 1970 and 1972.

As head wrestling coach for J.J. Kelly High School, he led the team to the Lonesome Pine District Championship in 1974. Rhea also assisted with winning football teams at Castlewood and George Wythe high schools. He played as defensive tackle from 1966 through 1968 at Emory & Henry, starting 30 games. In 1967, Rhea made honorable mention on the Knoxville-News All-Area Team and Associated Press All-State. In 1968, the team finished the season

ranked 10th in the nation, as he made first team All-District Six including athletes from institutions such as Appalachian State University, Wofford College, Western Carolina University, South Carolina State University, Presbyterian College, Newberry College and Allen University. In that same year, Rhea also made first team Associated Press All-State, first team Knoxville-News All Area Team and the Small College All-State Football Team. He is a member of First United Methodist Church in Marion, a Smyth-Bland Regional Library volunteer and an avid genealogist. v *Please see page 34 for a tribute to Coach Bob Johnson.

Hall of Fame inductees, from left to right, Casey Johnson (accepting for his father, Coach Bob Johnson*), Derek Elmore, Jamie Harless, Jewel Rhea and Myra H. Baumgardner.

Emory & Henry Inducts Five into Sports Hall of Fame

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Volleyball Team Has Second Consecutive 20-win Season The Emory & Henry volleyball team ended its 2009 season with a loss to Bridgewater College in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference Tournament. Although the team fell short of an ODAC title, it clinched 20 wins for a second consecutive season. The Wasps, who entered the tournament seeded No. 5, fell 3-1 to Bridgewater, which was seeded No. 4. Earlier in the week, Emory & Henry scored two victories—against Huntingdon College and Sewanee—to notch their 19th and 20th wins and contributing to an impressive 20-7 season. The Wasps are expected to remain strong in the 2010 season, thanks in large part to sophomore Rachel Fertitta, who enjoyed some of the conference’s best stats for kills and blocks. Meanwhile, Emory & Henry will carry into its next season other tough competitors, including junior Erin Holben, sophomores Selena Trichel and Samantha Lucado, and first-year athlete Kim Caudill. The team will lose the strong play of three seniors: Samantha Shepard, Twyla Sessor and Raegan Clarke. v

The Emory & Henry men’s soccer team is finding inspiration in the youthfulness of its squad and the contributions of key players as it looks back on a challenging 2009 season. The Wasps finished the season with

Rachel Fertitta earned 1st Team All-ODAC and 1st Team All-State as well as earning a National Player of the Week Award.

Young Men’s Soccer Team Finishes 3-14, Looks to Next Year3-14 overall and 1-9 ODAC records. But that record does not define the potential of the team, which has lost only one senior and which, according to its coach, played very well in spite of the scores. “We are playing better than we ever

have and have more talent than we have had in any other year,” said head coach Travis Fravel. In each game, the Wasps have been competitive, even against the top teams in the highly competitive Old Dominion Athletic Conference. “While being competitive, we are starting and playing freshmen, while other teams are starting and playing upperclassmen,” Fravel said. Because of the experience being gained by the first-year athletes on the team, Fravel says they are continually improving and honing the team for greater success next year. “These freshmen are playing valuable minutes in critical parts of the game, and we have a lot of depth on the team, which is making competition for starting spots,” the coach said. The team will lose one senior this year, Erik Olson, who along with teammate Josh Stamey, was named to the Kyle Rote Jr. Invitational Team at Sewanee earlier in the season. The team captain, Olson was a highly versatile, hard-working player whose absence will be felt strongly, according to his coach. The team will, however, be returning one of its stars, P.J. Henson, who brings flair and an ability to score. v

No. 10, P.J. Henson, led E&H with five goals this season.

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The first year of coaching women’s soccer at Emory & Henry was very rewarding for Anna Baker. Her team finished 10-8 overall (4-7 in the ODAC) and claimed some important victories. Although the season was marked by a few disappointing losses, it also was a successful year for building strong foundations, Baker said. The building process included giving experience to a young team and encouraging hard work in the off-season. “Overall, the team worked very hard to build these foundations and that has afforded us a solid year,” Baker said. The team enjoyed many strong victories, most of them toward the beginning of the season, and a satisfying overtime win over Guilford College, which beat the Wasps last year in the

Cross Country Teams Finish Well Emory & Henry senior Jeff Casassa finished fourth out of a field of 64 runners in an invitational cross country meet that included seven schools. The E&H team finished fifth overall

in the Maroon Invitational at Roanoke College, outpacing conference rival Hampden-Sydney but falling behind two other Old Dominion Athletic Conference teams, Bridgewater and Roanoke. Casassa finished the 8k meet with an impressive time of 28:46.53. Emory & Henry’s Keran Billaud, a sophomore, put in the second best performance for the team, finishing 23rd with a time of 30:48.17. Other E&H finishers were Martin Stiles, 52nd with a time of 35:18.83; Matthew Williams, 58th with a time of 38:03.55; Spencer Black, 59th with a time of 38:25.17; and Madison Williams, 61st, with a time of 42:24.00. Casassa, Billaud and Stiles consistently placed among the top three for the Wasps throughout the season. The men’s team finished eighth out of ten teams in conference competition. For the women’s team, Christina Howard, a junior, and Madison Hilliard were the top runners for Emory & Henry, which finished ninth out of nine teams in the ODAC finals. v

same fashion, in the final game of the year. The Wasps had hopes of a stronger result against Eastern Mennonite, which defeated Emory & Henry 6-0. “That loss was the hardest,” Baker said. “We knew we didn’t show up focused and ready to compete, and the end result was a pretty embarrassing one.” Among the E&H standouts were goal tender Hayley Poland, who helped keep the team competitive in most of its matches. Sophomore midfielder Loren Favale scored 14 goals, including six game-winners. Juniors Kelsey Sellers and Amanda Ragone provided skill, leadership and encouragement in the backfield while first-year students Tosin Sanusi and Kellie Flaherty were productive in many different roles on the field.

First-year Coach says Women Building Strong Foundations in Soccer

No. 9, Loren Favale, led E&H with 14 goals this season.

The team loses only one senior, Rachel Preston, who is credited with a sound college career. “I’m very pleased with this team,” Baker said. “They are a hard-working group that has a clear vision of what this program can and will achieve. Everybody wants to be a part of that result, but, more importantly, everyone wants to be a part of the process. v

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Rick Rose, producing artistic director for Barter, and E&H President

Rosalind Reichard sign an agreement allowing collaboration between the

theatre and the college.

Nationally Renowned Barter Theatre Inks Agreement with Emory & Henry Emory & Henry College and Barter Theatre in Abingdon, Va., signed an agreement in September that continues a collaborative arrangement aimed at enhancing professional theatre education for E&H students. The agreement, which was signed by Dr. Rosalind Reichard, E&H president, and Richard Rose, producing artistic director for Barter, establishes a variety of programs that connect E&H students with the professional actors and staff at Barter. The programs include a mentor program that allows E&H students to “shadow” the work of a Barter professional and an observation program, which allows students to observe daily rehearsals, production meetings and performances throughout an academic year. The three-year agreement also establishes the name of the E&H drama program as The Department of Theatre at Emory & Henry College, in association with Barter Theatre. “This agreement continues a very valuable relationship for Emory & Henry College,” said Reichard. “Barter Theatre – the state theatre of Virginia – is recognized around the world for high quality, professional theatre. It is a great privilege for Emory & Henry to be associated with such a quality theatre enterprise.” Other features of the agreement include an audition and review process involving Barter personnel

to help monitor the work of students in the E&H theatre program, professional workshops conducted by

Barter professionals, instructional tours for students of Barter facilities, and E&H student participation in technical activities at Barter. “We deeply value our relationship with Emory & Henry College,” said Rose.

“Barter Theatre believes that a strong liberal arts background is the best way to prepare aspiring theatre artists for their chosen career. We have found this program to be mutually beneficial to the students of Emory & Henry as well as to the artists of Barter Theatre. We hope this program continues to grow and flourish for many years to come.” The Emory & Henry Theatre Department offers students the combined strengths of a small liberal arts college and the type of pre-professional experiences often found only in large conservatories. The degree options offered by the Theatre Department are designed to equip students with the skills required to succeed in the professional theatre, graduate school, and a wide range of vocations. With its unique beginnings during the Great Depression, Barter Theatre, one of this nation’s oldest professional non-profit theatres, is located in beautiful historic Abingdon, Virginia. Barter Theatre is a theatre of firsts: one of this nation’s first professional regional theatres, the first professional theatre to be designated a state theatre—The State Theatre of Virginia—and more. Today, Barter offers a variety of musicals, classics, comedies, dramas and new southern and Appalachian plays performed February through December yearly on two stages: Barter Theatre and Barter Stage II. Barter Theatre continues to be one of the nation’s most vibrant and exciting professional theatre experiences. v

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A series of videos produced by two Emory & Henry graduates aims to help E&H alumni and students recall the importance of their ongoing connections to the College. The four videos in the series were sent to E&H alumni through email during the fall. They were also made available online and through Facebook and Twitter. The videos features E&H alumni, students, faculty and staff noting how they relate to the College. Created by the E&H Public Relations Office and produced by Carrie Cannaday, a member of the E&H class of 2002, and Robbie Tullock, E&H class of 2009, the videos feature images and words of E&H alumni, students, faculty and staff. Members of the E&H community are encouraged to view the video series, which is entitled “Stay Connected,” and share the videos with others. “The videos are intended to help students and alumni recall their experiences at Emory & Henry and to reflect on how those experiences create an important, enduring connection among them and between them and future generations,” said Dirk Moore, E&H director of public relations. The distinctiveness of the E&H experience is something that is felt as much as it is explained, Moore said. “These videos help to recall those feelings. v

Video Series Focuses on E&H Connections A former executive assistant to

the president and a 1990 graduate of Emory & Henry has been named the College’s vice president for institutional advancement. Greg McMillan brings to the office of institutional advancement more than 16 years of service to Emory & Henry, a strong background in fund raising and administrative leadership and extensive knowledge of the College and its history. McMillan holds a bachelor’s

degree in mass communications and a master’s degree in American history, both from Emory & Henry. “I have watched closely as this college has grown and planned for its future. I look forward to devoting my energies to an institution that has done so much for me and has high hopes of expanding its mission in service to others,” McMillan said. McMillan serves as senior warden and stewardship chair for St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church in Abingdon. He is a member of the Rotary Club of Washington County, currently serving on the board of directors and as president-elect. He serves on the board of directors of the Kingsport Symphony of the Mountains, board member and newsletter editor of the Historical Society of Washington County, board member of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce, and as member and secretary of the Glade Spring Board of Zoning Appeals. He is a member of Project Glade and Friends of the Glade Spring Public Library. He has also served as a board member of the Washington County United Way. v

VP for Institutional Advancement Named

Tyler Haslam (‘07) will soon receive his law degree, and one of the first things he plans to do thereafter is contribute to the College that helped shape his future by preparing him for law school. Haslam received degrees in political science and history from Emory & Henry before continuing on to the Pettit College of Law at Ohio Northern University, where he’ll graduate in May. Having spent the past two summers as a law clerk and as the current judicial extern to the Hon. Walter Rice at the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio, Haslam links much of his accomplishments to the preparation he received as an undergraduate. “My success in law school is directly attributable to my educational experiences at Emory & Henry,” said Haslam. “Having the opportunity to compete in moot court competitions

Haslam Credits E&H Experiences for Law School Success

Greg McMillan

definitely gave me a leg up in the courtroom once I got to law school.” Haslam has already accepted a position as a litigation associate with Offutt Nord, PLLC in Huntington, W.Va. and is preparing to take the Ohio and West Virginia bar exams in 2010. Although Haslam anticipates working in the area of medical malpractice defense, he also plans to give back as much as he can to Emory & Henry College. “Because graduates before me were willing to give back, I was able to enjoy the benefit of an education I feel is unparalleled,” Haslam said. “I want to continue that tradition to ensure future students have access to the same excellent education. v

Tyler Haslam, front row right, serves as law clerk for U.S. district court in Ohio.

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Homecoming 2009

Class of ’59: Front row, from left: Elizabeth Turner Jondahl, Norma French George, Ginny Rowland Barker, Peggy Martin Roberts and Elinor Rollins King; back row, from left, Ronald Hammond, Bill Rodgers, George Vaughan, John Dobbins, James Farley, Frank “T-Bone” Lewis, John Ripley, Doug Lester, John Houston, Harry Hight, Larry Leasure, Harry Gilmer, Donald Progar, Manny Stoupis and David McCordock.

LEFT: Class of ’54: Front row, from left: Clifford Mainous, Marilyn Jones Fantino, Doris Wampler Adair, Barbara Jones Shufflebarger, and Jacquelyn Witt Mainous. Back row: Jack Cox, Haynes Lee, Richard Looney, Brownie Polly, Charles Whetsel and Bill Shelton. RIGHT: Class of ’49: Front row, from left: Katherine Ryburn Minton, Jack Minton, Cornelia Woodson Smith, Polly Reynolds McFarlane and Maisie Cuddy Baldwin; back row: David Peck, Jack Taylor, James Smith, Harry Baldwin and John T. Kelley.

LEFT TO RIGHT: Class of ’34: Elizabeth Crowgey Young. Class of ’39: Madge Candler Greer, Susie Quarles Allison, Mary Ellen Steele Naff. Class of ’44: Marvin Reynolds.

REUNIONS’34-’59

Homecoming 2009

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Flocking to the tailgateA flock of Lamb brothers created a great tailgate at the E&H vs. Guilford football game in Greensboro. There was corn-hole-playing, football-throwing, and pennant-waving. At the risk of stating the obvious, fun was had by all! v

Brent Treash, Brendan Roche, Eric Smith, Steve Long, Mike Mason, Adam Kennedy, Scott Vaught, Justin Smith, Joe Hodge. (not pictured, Thomas Lester)

Where in the world?Jillian Lewis (’08) spent three weeks in Australia participating in Radford University’s study abroad program. She completed international business credits for her MBA. She has since graduated from Radford with an MBA and has accepted a position as a business education teacher at Galax High School. Even while visiting the Sydney Opera House she was sporting her Emory & Henry pride!

Jillian Lewis (’08) in Sydney, Australia.

Here’s looking at you...Where in the cold world?Matt Williams (’93) recently took a trip to Fairbanks, Alaska, and, like a good alumnus, he packed his E&H sweatshirt (even if he seems to have forgotten long pants). Clearly he took full advantage of opportunities while there as other photos from the trip show him dog sledding, ice fishing, and posing with reindeer. Matt is head athletic trainer at Virginia State University, whose men’s basketball team was playing in a tournament in Fairbanks. v

Matt Williams (’93) poses with a thermometer in Fairbanks, Alaska, to prove that it really is cold there!

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The B’s KneesOn Oct. 25, several alumni were part of the 2009 Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. Team B’s Knees walked in honor of Beth White who was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year. Beth’s daughters, Emily and Sarah Beth, organized friends to honor their mom and raise money for breast cancer awareness and research. Sixteen people served on their team, which raised more than $5,500 for Susan G. Komen for the Cure. v

Emily White (’09), Beth White, Ashley Duncan Cannon (’04). (back row) Sarah Beth White (’04), Vickie Goff Mitoraj (’77), Jessica Johnson Deal (’03), and Steven Cannon (’02).

Who in the world?Surely we all recognize Katy Copenhaver Davidson (’91) on the right, but who

in the world are those other people? Katy serves on the board of the Theatre Guild Inc. in Morristown, and while attending the guild’s 75th Anniversary Gala she had a photo made with two of the more recognizable attendees,

Calista Flockhart and Harrison Ford. v

Famed actress and actor Calista Flockhart and Harrison Ford pose with famed E&H alumna Katy Copenhaver Davidson (’91). Ms.

Flockhart and Mr. Ford served as hosts for the event.

They made it!Virginia Lamb graduated from E&H on May 9, 2009. The following day, she and her dad, Patrick Lamb (’78) set off from Virginia with plans to bicycle their way across the country. And they made it! A note from Virginia upon return announced that they completed the journey in “just under three months and 4,400 miles total. We arrived in Anacortes, Wash., on the 6th of August.”

Daughter and father, Virginia Lamb (’09) and Patrick Lamb (’78), in Washington State after completing a cross-country bike adventure.

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More Than A Vacation Sweet 16!Our summer alumni college has just celebrated its 16th anniversary, and the fun just gets bigger every year. If you’d like to join us next year, mark your calendar for July 28-Aug. 1, 2010.

Clockwise: Visiting area communities has be-come a special part of the MTAV experience, and Ann Shupe (‘67) made a purchase from Tony Surber at the Glade Spring landmark store, Surber and Son. Dominoes in Linden House. We had lunch at the Hardware Co. Restaurant in Hillsville, Va., where restaurant-owner Brian Spencer (‘87) got to visit with old friends Scotty and Dan Zimmerman (‘62, ‘62). Alumni greeted us while we visited area towns, including Lindsey Guynn Utt (‘03) who met us with souvenirs prepared with help from her niece. A little dance lesson was good preparation for other events. We visited the Floyd (Va.) Country Store for music and dancing after a huge meal at historic Pine Tavern. Lynda Jones Hawkins (‘66) loads up on oils and vinegars and other products at the Chateau Morrisette Winery in Meadows of Dan. Betsy Harkleroad (‘69) is awestruck by a beautiful cabbage grown by E&H Public Relations Director Dirk Moore and sold at the Glade Spring Farmer’s Market. Martha Spencer (‘07– center) brought the Whitetop Mountain Band to play on campus and caught up with classmates Lauren Musick (‘08) and Lisa Evans Bourne (‘07). Rob Weisfeld (‘76) gave us a personal tour of the Star Museum in Abingdon, filled with movie memorabilia.

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News from your Alumni Association

Homecoming 2010 October 2

Don’t ever miss an opportunity to visit Emory & Henry, but note that 2011 provides several exciting reasons to visit as the College celebrates the 175th anniversary of the founding of Emory & Henry. Major events will revolve around the 2011-2012 academic calendar, but watch for additional celebrations throughout the year.

Harris Connect is currently organizing data for a new alumni directory for Emory & Henry College. In order to confirm that your entry in the directory is correct, call 800-650-2554. Please note that Emory & Henry does not receive any monetary support from your purchase of a directory. If you would like to make a donation to Emory & Henry, you may use the online link found at www.ehc.edu.

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Alumni Directory

Making a nomination for an E&H Outstanding Alumni Award has just gotten easier. Simply go to www.ehc.edu/alumni/awards.html and tell us who you think deserves special recognition. Be sure to share as much information as you can so that your nomination will have the best possible chance of being selected.

Alumni Award Nominations:

NOW YOU CAN NOMINATE ON-LINE!

College to Celebrate 175 Anniversary With Many Events

Make note of these important events and plan to be with us!

2011 FALL CONVOCATION 2011 HOMECOMING (OCTOBER 15) 2012 CHARTER DAY (MARCH 22) 2012 COMMENCEMENT

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i Class of 1952 Cecil McFarland received the Outstanding Alumni Award for Service to the Community by the Candler School of Theology at Emory University in October 2009. He and his wife, Mary Roller McFarland (’53), reside in Richmond, Va. Gerald McFarland retired 16 years ago after 40 years of ministry in the Holston Conference. For 10 years he was minister of visitation at Second United Methodist Church in Knoxville. He and his wife Martha reside in a cottage at Asbury Place Retirement Community in Maryville, Tenn.

Class of 1955 Michael McGrady retired in 1976 after a 20-year career in the U.S. Marines, where one of his assignments was in Vietnam. He was a real estate salesman and managing broker for 24 years and retired from RE/Max in 2000. He and his wife, Shirley, reside in

Springfield, Va.

Class of 1957 Jack Good has published a book entitled Emotions and Values/Exploring the Source of Jesus’ Strength and

Influence, St. Johann Press, 2009. He resides in Roanoke, Va.

Class of 1962 Thyra Yates Biggs and her husband, Norman Biggs (’63), have retired. They drove to Long Beach, Calif., this past summer, and they reside in Patrick Springs, Va.

Class of 1964 Bob Tucker and his wife, Vivian, are loving retirement. They are engaged in many activities, including traveling and participating in E&H activities. They reside in Moneta, Va.

Class of 1966 Phil Robbins was featured in the Aug. 1, 2009, edition of the Bristol Herald Courier. He turned a successful football program at Powell Valley High School into a powerhouse and won a state championship. He resides in Big Stone Gap, Va. Suzanne Steele retired from teaching at Pulaski County High School. She resides in Dublin, Va.

Class of 1969 Beth Carter Harmon is a subcontract manager for Booz Allen Hamilton. She and her husband, Don, reside in New Bern, N.C. James Shupe retired as senior systems analyst from Eastman Chemical Company after 24 years of service. He and his wife, Carolyn, reside in Bluff City, Tenn.

Class of 1970 Jorita Watson Roberts played Opal Kronkie in “Everybody Loves Opal” by John Patrick at the Palmer Mill Playhouse in Saltville, Va.

Class of 1971 Sam Belew was featured in the July 20, 2009, edition of the Bristol Herald Courier. He is a scout master and founder of Appy Trails Company. He developed lightweight tents specifically made for backpackers. He also has a patent for a spotting compass, the bearings for which can be read by simply holding the compass up to the eye and reading the bearing within one-half degree accuracy. He and his wife, Betsy, reside in Bristol, Tenn.

Class of 1973 Lynn Osborne Butcher is a realtor at Realty Executives and was named to the Campaign Cabinet of the United Way of Bristol’s 2009 fundraising campaign. She resides in Bristol, Tenn. Archie Ellis was named one of Knoxville’s Top Singles by Knoxville magazine and was featured in the May 2009 issue. He is the chief development officer for Knoxville Habitat for Humanity. He resides in Knoxville, Tenn. Roland Scott retired from teaching and coaching in the Catawba County School System. He is now in charge of the driver education program at Maiden High School and is a transportation aide at Abernethy Laurels, a retirement community. He and his wife, Donna, reside in Catawba, N.C.

Class of 1974 Bill Neely is the commonwealth attorney for Spotsylvania County, where he has been a prosecutor for 27 years. His wife, Vickie Mitchell Neely (’74), has retired after 35 years of teaching elementary school.

Class of 1975 Tom Bishop and his wife, Kyra Kegley Bishop (’77), have opened Riverstead in Chilhowie, Va., a sister property and guest house for their Town House restaurant. The

guest house overlooks the South Fork of the Holston River and is a stay-over spot for culinary excursions to the Town House. The Town House was featured in the June 17, 2009, issue of The New York Times. Judy Lemaster Bull has published a book entitled Zeke and Moses: Revolutionary Friends! It is available through Publish America at www.Publishamerica.Com. She resides in Chesterfield, Va. Robert Hatch is S.V.P. and Head of Corporate Banking at the Bank of Oklahoma. He manages a large team of Middle Market bankers. Betsy Reinicker Henderson competed in the Triathlon World Championship in The Gold Coast, Australia. In her age bracket she finished in eighth place in the olympic race and third in the sprint race. She was the first American finisher in both races. She resides in Roanoke, Va. Harry Johnston has worked for Sun Chemical for 22 years. His wife, Betty Counts Johnston (re-’77), was a middle school teacher. They have two daughters, Lauren and Grace, and reside in Richmond, Va. Renie Price was named an honorary member of the Radford Fire and Rescue Department. She was the first woman to receive this honor in its 111-year history. She graduated from the Citizen’s City of Radford Department of Police Academy in May 2009. She is currently researching the fire department’s history.

Class of 1976 Donna Miller was named assistant men’s and women’s tennis coach at Bridgewater College. She resides in Staunton, Va.

Class of 1977 Harriet Berrier is the principal of Sevierville Primary School, the largest primary school in the district. She resides in Sevierville, Tenn. Mike Braswell was the chairman of Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion 2009. He resides in Bristol, Va. Janice Scott Maynard had foreign rights to three of her previously published novels sold to a publisher in Thailand. She and her husband, Charles Maynard (’77), reside in Jonesborough, Tenn. John McSherry has published a book entitled Gray’s Plutonium, available through www.iuniverse.com. He is retired from the U.S. Navy where he served on the USS Nimitz, USS Roosevelt, USS Lincoln,

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1996Jackie Greene Dalton, son Robert Fitzgerald “B.J.” Jr., May 18, 2009

Vanessa Sturgill Fant, daughter Vivian Mae, June 28, 2008.Sunshine Smith Melhuish, son Mason Emmit, April 7, 2008.

Amanda Howery Thompson, daughter Maddie, July 3, 2008.

1997Amy Fisherauer Metzgar, son Brentley, Aug. 22, 2008.

Brad Dulaney, son Isaac Henry, Sept. 26, 2008.

1998Scarlett Cortner Blevins, son Tanner Bryan, Sept. 3, 2009.

1999Mike Mason, daughter Caroline Jane, June 8, 2009.

Kelly Rutherford Peters, daughter Sofia Angeline, Sept. 18, 2009Kelly Hazelwood Shore, son Emory Quinn, Aug. 23, 2009.

Gina Hamlett Waddell, daughter Grey Caroline, Dec. 20, 2008.

2000Nikki Hay Morrison, son Collin Michael, Aug. 22, 2009.Justin Porterfield, son William Princeton, April 6, 2009.

Laura Kidd Powell & Waid Powell, son Adrian Stafford, May 30, 2009.

2001Molly Money Hester, daughters Payton Lynn & Dalton Marie, Aug. 8, 2009.

Brian Hoff, son Joseph Carter, Sept. 17, 2009.Annie Ogle Lonker & Ricky Lonker, son Emory, April 13, 2009.

Brandy Brown Peake & Daryl Peake, 2000, daughter Ava Aurora, Jan. 7, 2009.

2002Lindsay Buchanan Blackwell, son Porter Hill, July 31, 2009.

Stacy Wright Long & Gabe Long, 2003, daughter Payton Olivia, July 1, 2009.

2003Cathy Newman Reid, daughter Lydia Morgan, Sept. 7, 2009.

Laura Clifton Smith, son Matthew Heath II, Sept. 5, 2009.

2004Chanel Burke Santiago, son Jayden Tomas, June 17, 2009.

2005Gavin Henthorn, son Dorian Turner, Oct. 18, 2009.

Pretal Patel Muldoon & Danny Muldoon, 2007, son Colin, Aug. 5, 2009.

2008Sarah Michel Beale & Jordan Beale, re-‘11, daughter Abigail Grace, July 1, 2009.

BirthsUSS Independence, and various F-14 squadrons. He taught digital theory and system’s analysis in the Navy’s technical campus. Prior to that, he taught science in the Chesterfield School System. He resides in Belpre, Ohio. Terry Richardson was honored by his fellow employees at Emory & Henry as the August recipient of the Blue & Gold Staff Award. He has served the College for 10 years as retail director of the Emory Mercantile. He resides in Saltville, Va.

Class of 1979 Mike Moyer is enrolled in an online master’s certificate program in educational facilities planning at San Diego State University. He is a facilities project manager and planner for Wells Fargo. He and his wife, Priscilla, reside in Gastonia, N.C. Ernie Ward is the city manager of the City of Norton and a certified public accountant. He and his wife Deborah have two sons, Matthew (’05) and Wesley. They reside in Norton, Va.

Class of 1981 Kevin Combs is a CPA with Red Bull Racing, Inc., which is a NASCAR race team. He resides in Statesville, N.C. Jerrie Quillen Doss works in the Pharmaceutical Products Division of Abbott in Johnson City, Tenn. She resides in Bristol, Va. Rose Neese Houk celebrated her 300th career win as volleyball coach at Galax High School. She resides in Galax, Va. Kevin Shinault received his National Board certification in 2008. He has been a coach for 23 years. He and his wife, Kara, have a daughter, Kaitlin, and son, Kyle. They reside in Pilot Mountain, N.C.

Class of 1982 Will Boylan participated in multiple events at the Commonwealth Games in July 2009. He resides in Roanoke, Va. Stewart Whitmore Plein graduated in August 2009 from the University of South Carolina with a master’s degree in library and information science. As a student she won the 2009 Student Book Collecting Award for her personal collection of books designed by 19th century book binding designer Margaret Armstrong. She is a finalist in the National Student Book Collecting Award competition. She and her husband, Chris Plein (’84), reside in Morgantown, W. Va.

Class of 1983 Tal Stanley was honored by Emory & Henry with the Exemplary Teaching Award

in August 2009. The award is given annually by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry of the United Methodist Church to a member of the faculty who has demonstrated outstanding achievement in teaching at a United Methodist-related institution of higher learning. Joel Vaughan has published a book entitled The Rise and Fall of the Christian Coalition – The Inside Story. The book is available at Wipf & Stock publishers. He resides in Colorado Springs, Co.

Class of 1984 Greg Kelly is the town manager of Abingdon, Va. The Virginia Local Government Managers Association elected him to its executive committee. He will serve a two-year term on the committee where he hopes to stress the need and importance for recruiting a younger and well-trained base of local government managers throughout the state.

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Class of 1985 Monica Hoel was honored by her fellow employees at Emory & Henry as the May 2009 recipient of the Blue & Gold Staff Award. She is the director of alumni.

Class of 1987 Julie Dillow Meador is an assistant professor of legal assisting at Patrick Henry Community College. Her team (Team Armadillo) for the annual MS Walk recently participated in the Bristol and Martinsville events and raised $15,413. She resides in Martinsville, Va. Todd Tickle is a CPA-finance manager for Advanced Equities Financial Corp. in Richmond, Va. Brian Woodson is the sports editor of the Bluefield Daily Telegraph. He won second place in the sports writing category, third place in the best sports columnist category, and third place in the best sports news writing category at the West Virginia Press Association’s 2009 Better Newspaper Contest. The sports team won fourth place for this year’s best sports section in West Virginia’s newspapers.

Class of 1988 Greg Horn performed his new single, “One Hometown,” at the Richlands Fall Festival in October 2009. He is a singer and songwriter, and he pays tribute to the lives and legacy of the people of Richlands.

Class of 1989 John Bridger is the program director for an organization called Community Impact of Chattanooga (see story page 26). Karen Sykes Brown graduated from the University of Virginia in May 2009 with an education specialist degree in administration and supervision. She teaches math at Grundy High School. Her husband, Troy, is a federal mine inspector for the U.S. Department of Labor. They have two daughters, Bailee, 15, and Peyton, 13. Scott Langston is an operations manager and installer for Karl Protil & Sons, Inc., a cabinet shop. He and his wife, Allyson, reside in Staunton, Va. Jimmy Powell is an internal learning consultant with Chesterfield County government. He received his Ph.D. in adult learning and human resource development from Virginia Tech in May 2009. He and his wife have two sons, Vijay, 5, and Neaz, 11, and a daughter, Jaya, 5, and reside in Richmond, Va.

Jay Webb (’99) and WDBJ-TV received an Emmy award for Best Weekend Newscast, honoring his coverage of a prolonged wind event that hit the Roanoke Valley on Feb. 10, 2008. Thousands of people were without power and 350 fires were sparked in Virginia, the most on record for a single day, as Webb began his daily routine as a meteorologist for WDBJ, CBS Channel 7 in Roanoke, Va. “Smoke was so thick that Interstate 81 had to

be closed around Roanoke. Democratic presidential candidates Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama both had scheduled visits to Roanoke but cancelled their trips due to the strong winds,” said Webb. For several hours, winds blew at speeds between 30 and 50 miles per hour with wind gusts in Roanoke reaching 69 miles per hour, which is almost hurricane strength. The wind caused significant damage all across the WDBJ viewing area, which serves 26 counties in southwest and central Virginia, as Webb continued countless reports to audiences. Webb joined WDBJ in 2006, shortly after graduating from Mississippi State University’s Broadcast Meteorology Program. He also produced NewsCenter 5 with Johnny Wood at WCYB-TV in Bristol and served as a weekend meteorologist for WHSV in Harrisonburg, Va., as well as weekday morning and noon meteorologist for WHSV. Webb, who was the recipient of the Alf Goodykoontz Scholarship and Outstanding Senior in Mass Communications Award while a student at Emory & Henry, grew up in Giles County, Va. “Emory is the only place I ever wanted to go to college, and WDBJ is the only place I ever wanted to work,” remarked Webb. “Emory more than prepared me for a career in broadcasting. This Emmy is an award for WDBJ, but the framework was laid years ago at Emory & Henry.” WDBJ-7 was presented the Emmy at the 51st Emmy Awards on June 6, 2009, in Washington, D.C. The Emmy Award entries were broadcast between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2008. WDBJ is the CBS affiliate for the Roanoke/Lynchburg television market. Webb’s fondest memories of Emory & Henry include his professors. “One thing I always remember is how much my professors cared about what they were teaching. Their passion was contagious. They challenged us, just as the real world would.” •

Webb Receives Emmy Award for News Coverage

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Webb poses at the station with his award.

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Musical.” After his win, he met several horror standouts, including Linda Blair and Ari Lehman (the original Jason Vorhees). The movie includes more than 30 of his compositions. Additionally, his soundtrack for “Mantra” won best soundtrack at the Dark Carnival Film Festival. He lives in Charlottesville, Va. Cabot Davis has joined CompSec Inc. as the director of business development. The company is focused on delivering IT solutions to the U.S. government’s intelligence community. He and his former partners sold Compass Information Systems, Inc. in 2008. He owns Star City Granite, LLC based out of Roanoke. He and his wife, Christina, have three children, Jamie, 8, Joey, 6, and Ellie, 4, and reside in Annandale, Va. Clayton Hensley is a freelance writer for the Knoxville News-Sentinel. He wrote two articles on Breaks Interstate Park and Grayson Highlands, Whitetop and Damascus. He is the Knoxville Day Trips Examiner for examiner.com, and his stories highlight short trips from the Knoxville area. He works full-time for Hobby Lobby. He resides in Clinton, Tenn. Carole O’Dell is a real estate agent for Keller Williams Realty in Jacksonville, Fla. Previously, she had been a stay-at-home mom while helping her husband with the family business. She has a daughter, Victoria. Scott Shipley is a government account executive for Chasens Business Interiors in Norfolk, Va.

Class of 1990 Greg McMillan has been promoted to vice president for institutional advancement at Emory & Henry (see page 15).

Class of 1991 Chris Barker is a durable medical equipment specialist with 101Mobility. He resides in Charleston, S.C. Katy Copenhaver Davidson serves on the board of directors for Theatre Guild Inc. She recently attended the guild’s 75th Anniversary Gala (see page 19). She resides in Morristown, Tenn. Paige Newman was the curator for a recent exhibit at the Virginia Historical Society titled “Bring Paul Home: Phyllis Galanti and Vietnam War POWs.” She resides in Richmond, Va.

Class of 1992 Toby Applegate received grants from the Scientific Research Center of the Slovenian Academy of Arts and Sciences and the Goodwin Family Foundation to continue his research into human rights issues in the Former Yugoslavia. He is teaching at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville as an adjunct, while he completes his dissertation at Rutgers. Lance Brenner recently won two awards at the 2009 Fright Night Film Festival, including Best Soundtrack honors for his original score for “Eat Me – A Zombie

For Christopher Whitt (‘98), staying connected to Emory & Henry College means ensuring that unique opportunities that once allowed him to study abroad and find his passion are also provided to future E&H students.

As an E&H student, Whitt spent a semester in Brazil teaching English. He is now the owner of the High School Language Center in Londrina, Brazil, where he offers English, German, Italian, French and Spanish classes to 140 students. Whitt also teaches performing arts in English at St. James’ International School and is a professor of EFL (English

Whitt Finds E&H Connections Abroadas a Foreign Language) at Pitgoras College, Londrina. “I consider my success, even in another country with different customs and ideas, to be one of the fruits of careful cultivation that only an E&H education would have given,” Whitt said. As a conductor and soloist for the male vocal group Sollu’s Vocal Masculino, Whitt also has expanded the Brazilian pop group to include American folk music, Negro spirituals, sacred music and even opera. “All over the world, we see the hearts of E&H’s students, alumni, faculty and staff present and involved in everything they do,” he said. “E&H taught me to always strive for the best: a better future for all, a better way of living, a better ideal, a better world, and a better me.” •

Class of 1993 Frankie Carter and Monica Jo Hanson were married Sept. 19, 2009. They reside in Reisterstown, Md. Sabrina Harris Dilling is a stay-at-home mom for her son, David, 3. Her husband, Scott, is a terminal supervisor for Motiva Enterprises. They reside in Garner, N.C. Laura Sukle Lincoln is the business and community liaison and internship coordinator for the Department of Labor Blue Ridge Job Corps Center. She and her husband, John, reside in Marion, Va.

Class of 1994 Derek Elmore and Misty Stinnette were married May 23, 2009. They reside in Forest, Va. Matt Hankins graduated from the 2009 class of the Senior Executive Institute at the University of Virginia’s Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service. He is the assistant town manager and community development director for the Town of Rocky Mount, Va.

Class of 1995 Karen Secord Mason was honored by OfficeMax in October 2008 during its national “A Day Made Better” campaign. Her elementary school, Linkhorne Elementary, was selected by the local OfficeMax for recognition, and her principal chose Karen to receive this recognition. Karen, who is a special education teacher

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Whitt found his passion abroad.

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for kindergarten and first grade students, received $1,000 worth of school supplies during a surprise assembly. She was nominated during the 2007-2008 school year as the Teacher of the Year. She and her husband, Kell Mason (’96), have a daughter, Taylor, 5, and a son, Colin, 2. They reside in Forest, Va. Tina Myers and Daniel Scott Whitling were married Sept. 5, 2009. They reside in Palm Coast, Fla. Brian Reed, senior planner for the Mount Rogers Planning District Commission, was featured in the Sept. 7-8, 2009, issue of The Gazette. He is the town manager of Fries, which was awarded two grants from the Mount Rogers Planning District Commission for wastewater and water system improvements. Darren Wheatley is an area manager for LDF Sales & Distributing in Wichita, Kan. Allison Mays Wilburn will serve on the board of directors for the Cancer Outreach Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for cancer patients and their families in Southwest Virginia and Northeast Tennessee. She resides in Abingdon, Va.

Class of 1996 Vanessa Sturgill Fant was accepted as a fellow into the American Academy of Family Physicians in the summer 2009 and now works primarily in geriatrics. She resides in Galax, Va. Betty Rosenbaum Jessee is a director and CPA with Brown, Edwards & Company, LLP. She was selected as a Super CPA by Virginia Business magazine. Betty and her husband, Wesley, reside in Meadowview, Va.

Class of 1997 Brad Dulaney is pastor of Redwood United Methodist Church. He serves on the Virginia Conference Board of Ordained Ministry and the Danville District Committee on Ordained Ministry. His wife, Kim, works as a family practice physician. They reside in Rocky Mount, Va., with their children, Zora, Jesse and Isaac. Phillip Hustad was a member of a team of researchers honored by R&D magazine with an R&D 100 award. The award provides a mark of excellence known to industry, government, and academia as proof that his research led to one the most innovative ideas of the year. He resides in Manvel, Texas.

John Bridger (’89) believes in changing the world…one neighborhood at a time. John is the program director for an organization called Community Impact of Chattanooga. More than anything, this organization is about empowering residents in targeted neighborhoods to revitalize their community through partnerships. “We look for distressed neighborhoods that also have a committed group of residents who are willing to spend the time, energy and effort to work on a comprehensive revitalization effort,” John said. “Members of a community come together to work on physical revitalization, safety, social revitalization, and community empowerment.” Resident leadership serves as the cornerstone for his organization’s revitalization work. “The thing we rely on most is the guidance and leadership provided by our block leaders.” John’s organization provides ongoing training and support to block leaders so they have the right information and tools needed to convey a sense of pride and ownership to neighbors. In the end, the most important outcome is a renewed sense of neighborhood pride and ownership. “Once you begin to change the physical perception of a neighborhood, other perceptions begin to change as well,” John said. The project was founded by the City of Chattanooga, but is now supported by a local foundation, individuals, and The United Way. •

Bridger Has Positive Impact on Chattanooga Communities

Bridger, middle, stands with two members of the Orchard Knob community.

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Class of 2001 Maggie Cross and Mark Eric Brostic were married April 11, 2009. She is a financial aid counselor at Western Carolina University. They reside in Cullowhee, N.C. Benita Johnson and Greg Cunningham were married April 18, 2008. She is employed by the State of Hawaii as a crisis worker. He works for the federal government. Mindy Buchanan King is a technical editor and writer for the Transportation Institute at Virginia Tech. She resides in Christiansburg, Va. Ricky Lonker teaches photography and computer graphics and is a coach for Roanoke County Schools. His wife, Anne Ogle Lonker, is a special education teacher at Monterey Elementary School. They reside in Roanoke, Va. Kerianne Wagner Payne teaches sixth grade math at Manvel Junior High in Alvin, Texas. Her husband, Marshall Payne, is a project manager with a research lab design company in Houston, Texas. They have a daughter, Brayden, and reside in League City, Texas. Paul Seay is pursuing a degree at Princeton Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Kathleen Buttolph (’98), reside in Princeton, N.J. Pam Somervell completed her residency at Memorial Family Medicine in South Bend, Ind. She is practicing at Saltville Medical Center. She resides in Chilhowie, Va. Lowrie Tucker is the deputy building official for the Warren County, Va., Building Inspections Department. He is in charge of reviewing construction plans for environmental compliance. He is pursuing a master of science degree in organizational leadership at Shenandoah University. He resides in Stephens City, Va.

Class of 2002 Rita Belcher is a data supervisor at NOVA Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. She and her husband, Dennis, and daughter, Brittany, reside in Hobe Sound, Fla. Bunny Eaton and Chris Campbell were married Sept. 27, 2008. They both work for the City of Kingsport, Tenn. Laura Inman and Walter Sumpter were married May 9, 2009. They both work at a therapeutic boarding school in North Georgia. She recently attained her LMSW license. They reside in Dahlonega, Ga.

Characterization and Measurements.” He resides in Creedmoor, N.C. Chris Kolakowski has published a book entitled “The Civil War at Perryville: Battling for the Bluegrass.” It is published by the History Press and can be purchased from amazon.com. He resides in Atlanta, Ga. Patty Sufficool Money recently completed a year-long chaplain residency at Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News, Va. She is a PRN chaplain for the Bon Secours Hampton Roads hospital system. She and her husband, James, have a daughter, Susanna. Stephanie Powers was named Marion Primary School’s Teacher of the Year. She teaches kindergarten inclusion and resides in Marion, Va.

Class of 2000 Chuck Burton and Julie Durkot were married June 20, 2008. Both are teachers at Tazewell High School. He is assistant football and head wrestling coach. She is head volleyball and assistant softball coach. Casey Johnson was recently named the head basketball coach at Colonial Beach High School in Virginia’s Northern Neck.

Thomas Lester has been promoted to general manager and editor of The Carroll News in Hillsville, Va. Amanda Dye Melniczek ran the Half-Marathon with Team in Training at Virginia

Beach in September 2009. She and her husband, Eric, reside in High Point, N.C. Whitney Mullins and Scott Compton were married May 2, 2009. She is an RN in the Medical Intensive Care Unit at Holston Valley Hospital. He works for Thompson and Litton. They reside in Big Stone Gap, Va. Daryl Peake is an anesthesiologist with Virginia Highlands Anesthesia in Abingdon, Va. He and his wife, Brandy Brown Peake (’01), have two children, Hunter and Ava.

Michael Turner received his Ph.D. in religion from Vanderbilt University in May 2009. He is an assistant professor of religious studies at Misericordia University. He resides in Dallas, Pa. Scott Vaught works for Liberty Mutual Group and offers services in auto, home and life insurance. He and his wife, Amanda, reside in Catawba, Va.

Class of 1998 Michael Berry graduated from Virginia Tech in May 2009 with a master’s degree in education leadership. He teaches at Chilhowie High School and resides in Marion, Va. Michael Colston played Solomon Bozo in “Everybody Loves Opal” by John Patrick at the Palmer Mill Playhouse in Saltville, Va. Laura Coffman Cox received an honorable mention for a poem that she entered in a local annual library poetry contest. She resides in Fincastle, Va. Jeff Rigby graduated with honors from Widener University School of Law with a certificate in business organization. He is an associate in the corporate bankruptcy department of the law firm of Cooch & Taylor, P.A. in Wilmington, Del. Barbara Woodward Stamberg ran in the Virginia Beach Rock-n-Roll Half Marathon on Sept. 6, 2009. The run supported the Leukemia Society. She and her husband, Hans, reside in Hedgesville, W. Va. Chris Whitt is the owner of High School Language Center in Londrina, PR, Brazil, where he offers classes to kids, teens and adults in English, Italian, French, Spanish and Portuguese (see story page 25). Greg Woods played Brad Winter in “Everybody Loves Opal” by John Patrick at the Palmer Mill Playhouse in Saltville, Va.

Class of 1999 Bev Clark 8 completed his Ph.D. in physics from North Carolina State University. His dissertation is entitled “Split-tip Scanning Capacitance Microscopy (SSCM): Special Techniques in Surface

7

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While many of her classmates in 2006 followed their dreams after graduation from Emory & Henry College, Katie Summers simply followed her heart. The next two years proved to be among the most meaningful times in her life. Summers, who had spent most of her life in Huntington, W.Va., before coming to college, packed her bags for the Mississippi Delta, where she hoped to make a difference in the young lives of that community. Summers applied to participate in Teach for America, a program that aims to end educational inequity in targeted regions throughout the country. During her stay, she was assigned to teach kindergarten students, most of whom come from low-income African-American families. Since July 2008, Summers has taught at Camelot of Virginia, a residential group housing program in Pulaski, Va., using the same skills she learned in Mississippi to help children who have extraordinary needs, such as autism and behavioral disorders. She strongly believes her education as a Public Policy and Community Service (PPCS) major prepared her for the work. “I could not have handled it had I not been a PPCS student and learned about the struggles associated with social injustice that plague many citizens. The first PPCS class really opened my eyes,” said Summers, who learned that everyone has it in them to make a difference. “The classes made me a much better person than I would have been otherwise. PPCS pushed me to try new things and to embrace new ideas.” Summers came to E&H to pursue an education degree, but once she enrolled in a community organizing class, she was hooked on the PPCS

Alumna Credits E&H Education With Ability to Make a Difference

Katie Summers, top left, with several of her students

program. “So many of the things I believe meshed together to make me more confident of who I am and what is important to me. I learned to react not just from emotions, but to search for the facts. The PPCS program at Emory & Henry is a huge part of who I am. What I learned allowed me to be proud of myself, where I came from, and who I have become.” What she learned at Emory & Henry continues to touch her life outside the classroom. For years, Summers felt embarrassed to tell others she is a native of the Appalachian region and that her father and grandfather worked in the coal industry. “The PPCS curriculum helped me to look past the stereotypes and figure out why they exist.” Summers stays in contact with many of her friends

from Emory & Henry who were enrolled in the PPCS program. “These are people who were brutally honest with each other during class reflection meetings. I’m glad we know each other in such a powerful way.” •

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Stacy Wright Long is a nurse at Bristol Regional Medical Center. Her husband, Gabe Long (’03), is a teacher at Marion Senior High School. They reside in Marion, Va., with their child, Payton Olivia. Kris Sheets played Gloria Gulock in “Everybody Loves Opal” by John Patrick at the Palmer Mill Playhouse in Saltville, Va. She also directed the performance. Amy Edens Van Winkle is a pharmaceutical sales representative for Forest Pharmaceuticals. She and her husband, Judd, reside in Myrtle Beach, S.C.

Class of 2003 Jodi Arnold and Taylor Cowardin were married Aug. 7, 2009. They reside in Glen Allen, Va. Suzanne Bailey Bull was pictured on the cover of the July-August 2009 issue of American Psychologist. She resides in Strawberry Plains, Tenn. Anne Cain is pursuing a master’s degree in social work at the University of Tennessee. She will do a social work study abroad program this summer in Calgary, B.C. She resides in Knoxville, Tenn. Josh Hill graduated from Yale University with a master of divinity degree and earned a certificate in Anglican Studies. He is director of children’s and youth ministries at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. He and his wife, Hannah Gilman Hill (’04), reside in New Canaan, Conn. Ashley Ornduff and Charles Brandon Monk were married Oct. 25, 2008. She is a business analyst in accounting for Norfolk Southern Railway Corporation, and he is a conductor. They reside in Roanoke, Va. Jennifer Richmond Sisson is a staff physical therapist at Peak Performance Sports & PT. Her husband, J.R. Sisson (’01), has been promoted to the rank of captain in the U.S. Marine Corps and is stationed at Camp Lejeune. They reside in Jacksonville, N.C. Lindsey Guynn Utt was featured in the Aug. 5, 2009, issue of The Carroll News. She is a social worker in the Foster Care Unit at Carroll County DSS. She and her husband, Brian, reside in Galax, Va.

Class of 2004 Trey Arrington received his master’s degree in kinesiology, leisure, and sports science from ETSU and a master’s degree in educational leadership and administration from Union College. He teaches physical education at Holston View Elementary and is an adjunct professor at King College in the physical education department. He and his wife, Amber, reside in Bristol, Tenn. Tommy Forrester was named the head

softball coach at Sullivan East High School. He resides in Bluff City, Tenn. Caitlyn Hurley and Michael Rypel were married July 27, 2009. They reside in Morristown, Tenn. Josh Kilbourne is pastor for Willis, Falling Branch and Camp Bethel United Methodist Churches. He resides in Willis, Va.

Class of 2005 Sunni Blevins was promoted to anchor of NBC 12 News Today, the Saturday edition, the number one morning show in its market. She resides in Richmond, Va. 8 Whitney Herron and Chad Parker were married July 4, 2009. She is a seventh grade teacher in Scott County. He is a branch manager for SunTrust. They reside in Kingsport, Tenn. Chris Luper and Nicole Viers were married June 27, 2009. He was commissioned at Annual Conference as a provisional deacon and is the director of youth ministries at First United Methodist Church. They reside in Galax, Va. Ann Timberlake and Kevin Burnette were married July 11, 2009. She received her master’s degree in special education from Virginia Commonwealth University and is a high school special education teacher in the Sweetwater Independent School District. He is pursuing a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from Abilene Christian University. They reside in Abilene, Texas. Matt Ward graduated with a doctoral degree in physical therapy from Virginia Commonwealth University in May 2009. He is employed with Mountain States Health Alliance in Johnson City, Tenn. He resides in Norton, Va. Laura Weaver and Christian Miller (’06) were married July 18, 2009. Laura was honored with the Hope Award from

the Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Action Alliance. This award honors an individual or team that has made a significant contribution to the prevention of domestic or sexual violence. Christian is the coordinator of Bonner Scholars Program at Emory & Henry. They reside in Abingdon, Va.

Class of 2006 Nathan Castle graduated with magna cum laude honors from the University of Richmond-T.C. Williams School of Law in May 2009. He is the clerk for the Hon. Michael Lee Moore in the Russell County Circuit Court in Lebanon, Va. Angela Edwards and Derrick Douglas (’05) were married May 30, 2009. She is a fifth grade teacher with Grayson County Public Schools. He is employed with the State Employees Credit Union. They reside in Scottville, N.C. Marc Fitzwater completed the Special Forces training course at Fort Bragg, N.C. and was awarded the coveted Green Beret from the U.S. Army. He is a communications sergeant (18E) in 7th Special Forces Group. He and his wife, Holly Halstead Fitzwater (’05), reside in Raeford, N.C. 8 Whitney Henderson is a government contractor working with the Department of Defense at the Pentagon on the administration transition of political appointees and transfer of policy and information. Nathan Kilbourne and Lynn Cross were married May 30, 2009. They reside in Benton, Ark.

Attention English Majors/Minors

Classes Of 2005-2009

The English Department is currently undergoing a departmental review that

includes revising the curriculum. As successful graduates of the program,

you are in a unique position to provide us with very valuable feedback on

our program. Your feedback will help strengthen the program for the next

generation of Emory & Henry English majors and minors. The survey is

completely anonymous. To participate in the survey, please use the following

link: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/6KF2H3P.

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Alicia Phelps was named the winner in the women’s division of the Sullivan County Livestock Judging Champions. The judging contest consisted of three groups of cattle, a class of hay and an opportunity to guess the weight of an animal. She resides in Bristol, Va. Katie Summers participated in Teach for America, a program that aims to end educational inequity in targeted regions throughout the country (see story page 28.)

Class of 2007 Kathryn Bondurant and Ryan Smith were married June 6, 2009. They reside in Radford, Va. Amanda Boothe and Trey Schrock (’08) were married May 23, 2009. She graduated from King College in May 2009 with an MBA and is working for Wellmont as a senior internal auditor. They reside in Jonesborough, Tenn. Lisa Evans Bourne headed up the Make a Difference Day: Walk for School Supplies event held to raise money for supplies to benefit area public schools that have experienced recent budget cuts. She resides in Abingdon, Va. Justin Foster and Laura Beth Waite were married June 20, 2009. He graduated with a master’s degree in sport-exercise psychology from Argosy University/Phoenix in July 2009 and works as an USPTA-certified tennis instructor. She is an elementary school teacher for the Washington School District’s Highly Gifted Program. They reside in Phoenix, Ariz. Josh Griffith was honored by his fellow employees as the September recipient of The Blue & Gold Staff Award at Emory & Henry. He is an area coordinator for the Office of Student Life. Tyler Haslam recently argued in front of Judge Jeffrey Sutton of the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals in the finals of the Anthony J. Celebrezze Moot Court Competition at Ohio Northern University. He also had an article on the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Medellin v. Texas published in the latest edition of the Ohio Northern University Law Review. (See story on page 15.) He resides in Ada, Ohio. Meghan Kelleher is pursuing an MFA at Virginia Commonwealth University. She spent a year on a national tour with Theatre IV, touring A Christmas Tour and Huck and Tom. She completed a year-long acting residency at the Merry Go Round Playhouse in New York City. She resides in Richmond, Va.

Lindsay Porter completed a master’s degree in cell and molecular biology from Appalachian State University in July and began a Ph.D. program in biology at Georgia Institute of Technology. She resides in Atlanta, Ga. Allison Reed received her master’s degree in sports management from East Tennessee State University in May 2009. She completed an internship at Ferrum College as an assistant softball coach and is now an assistant at Randolph College. She resides in Roanoke, Va. Arthur Scott is an assistant to the chief of staff in Sen. Jim Webb’s office. He resides in Alexandria, Va. Chris Walker was a part of Bike the US for MS, a cross country bike tour dedicated to funding multiple sclerosis research and to supporting the MS community. Participants coordinated service projects and perform volunteer work as they ride across the U.S. Chris resides in Blacksburg, Va.

Class of 2008 Ashley Billingsley and Carter Cross were married May 23, 2009. She works for E.W. Scripps, and he works for Cokesbury United Methodist Church. They reside in Knoxville, Tenn. LeRae Edwards and Benjamin Collins (’06) were married July 11, 2009. They reside in Birchleaf, Va. Harriett Grau was named an honorary member of the Society of Leadership at North Georgia College and State University. She resides in Lagrange, Ga. Richard Graves has been named the station supervisor of the E&H college and community radio station, WEHC-FM, 90.7. Nate Griffith is in his second year of law school at Regent University. He resides in Virginia Beach, Va. Justin Harris and Brittany Lynn Mellinger were married April 25, 2009. They reside in Abingdon, Va. Jillian Lewis spent three weeks in Australia participating in Radford University’s study abroad program. She received an MBA and is a business education teacher at Galax High School. Donna Musick is a recreation therapist in acute admissions at Southwestern Virginia Mental Health Institute. She is pursuing a certified addiction counseling licensure. She resides in Marion, Va. Hollie Ramey and Tommy Bateman (’07) were married Aug. 29, 2009. They reside in Christiansburg, Va. Zee Tutuh and Greg Hamlin (’06) were married Aug. 8, 2009. She is attending Howard University College of Dentistry.

He is a database manager at the National Museum for Women in the Arts and is pursuing a master’s degree in economics at George Mason University. They reside in Washington, D.C.

Class of 2009 Callie Almond teaches English and drama at Franklin County High School. She resides in Roanoke, Va. Circe Anderson works part-time at the Northside branch of the Lexington Public Library and is pursuing a master’s degree in library science at the University of Kentucky. Caitie Baldwin works for Bankers Life and Casualty. She resides in Lusby, Md. Matt Baldwin was a graduate assistant with the E&H football program for the 2009 season. He assisted with the instruction of the defensive line unit. Michael Brendlinger is an agricultural specialist for U.S. Customs and Border Protection of San Diego, Cal. Shalonda Carter is an after-school teacher (K-2) at White Knoll Baptist Child Care Center. She resides in Lexington, S.C. Tori Cundiff is an account representative for First Financial Group of America. She resides in Salem, Va. Brett Frye is a laboratory analyst for Eastman Chemical Company. She resides in Abingdon, Va. Hunter Gleason is a Specialist 4 in the Human Intelligence Division of the U.S. Army. He resides in Stuarts Draft, Va. Amanda Hogston is a Title I teacher at Jackson Memorial School in Wythe County. Marilyn Hower has been named curator of The 1912 Gallery and arts assistant at Emory & Henry. Laura Jane Hudson is the lead graphic designer for TurnerVision Media. She resides in Springfield, Va. Megan Farris Jones teaches English and is responsible for the yearbook at Rural Retreat High School. She is the Pep Club and tenth grade sponsor. She and her husband, Justian, reside in Marion, Va. Jeremy Keene is pursuing a degree at Palmer College of Chiropractic. He resides in Tazewell, Va. Emily Kirby is a law enforcement ranger for the National Park Service at Kings Mountain National Military Park. She resides in Marion, Va. Kristen Kiser is a child protective services investigator for the Department of Family & Protective Services. She resides in Goldthwaite, Texas.

WITH ALUMNI - 30

ALUMNI WINTER 2010

When you ask Jack Blevins (’77) why he’s in Afghanistan, he chuckles as he admits that he finds the assignment “better than being in Washington, D.C.”

Jack is a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army and is currently on his sixth deployment. Serving in Sherana, Afghanistan, he says he feels good about the work he is doing because he knows it is making a difference for the people who live there.

“We spend more time here focusing on the important things – because we’re simply not doing the things that aren’t important.”

He says an assignment in the states would have him bogged down in red tape, whereas his time in Afghanistan is spent keeping U.S. troops safe and helping Afghanistan residents build a better existence.

He tells the story of a recent visit to a community near his base. An engineer had recently made it possible for the community to have water piped into the village, meaning less time and work carrying water to individual homes. “This pipe with a trickle of water seemed pretty modest to me,” said Jack, “but it clearly means a lot to the people who live there. They were pretty excited about it.”

Jack says he sees local residents living in humble settings, and he feels encouraged by the work being done by the United States to make communities stronger, more organized and better equipped for daily life. But he admits that improvements take time, and adds, “Sometimes Americans are impatient about progress.”

Jack expresses pride that the United States is willing to commit the time necessary to make things better for Afghanistan, noting that these are people who have been under duress for generations and are likely surprised to find that the U.S. wants to strengthen their communities.

He recalls a class he took his first year at Emory & Henry with Dr. Steve Fisher. He remembers writing a paper on how communities are organized, and he remembers being naïve about what that actually entails. Now he’s seeing first hand just how complicated—and how rewarding—the process can be. •

Virginia Lamb is attending the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Cain Landreth teaches history, English and psychology at Shanghai Foreign Language School in Shanghai, China. Julie Looney is pursuing a master’s degree in school counseling through Old Dominion University. She is a guidance counselor at St. Anne Catholic School in Bristol, Va. Jennifer Lucy and Joel Font (’08) were married June 27, 2009. They reside in Lawrence, Kan. Maggie Monk is pursuing a master’s degree in counseling and clinical health psychology at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She resides in Philadelphia, Penn. Kayla Morelock is a math teacher and volleyball coach at Dobyns-Bennett High School. She resides in Kingsport, Tenn. Caitlin Morgan is an acting workshop teacher and actor at Roanoke Children’s Theatre, Taubman Museum of Art, and Studio Roanoke. She resides in Roanoke, Va. Josh Nelson is pursuing a doctorate in kinesiology at West Virginia University and is a graduate teaching assistant. Jaime Roy teaches English, geography and biology at Shanghai High School International Division in Shanghai, China. Aaron Statzer is pursuing his MBA with an emphasis on healthcare administration at King College. He resides in Abingdon, Va. Jordan Stewart is a social studies teacher and assistant football coach at Grayson County Public Schools. Emma Sturgill is pursuing a degree at Vanderbilt University. She resides in Nashville, Tenn. Shannon Vance is a microbiologist at King Pharmaceuticals. She resides in Bristol, Va. Holly Yates is pursuing a master’s degree in clinical psychology at Middle Tennessee State University. She resides in Murfreesboro, Tenn. v

Blevins Keeps U.S. Troops Safe While Assisting Afghanistan Residents

WITH ALUMNI - 31

Blevins finds serving communities and keeping U.S. troops safe in Afghanistan to be a rewarding experience.

ALUMNI WINTER 2010

Ethel Downing Mullaly (’30),

Exmore, Va., died May 15, 2009. She

was a retired school librarian. Among

survivors is a son, Russell Mullaly, and

a step-son, James Mullaly.

Elizabeth Morrell Keener (’33),

Chattanooga, Tenn., died July 1, 2009.

She was a retired teacher with the

Chattanooga Public School System.

Among survivors is a nephew, William

Barger (’66).

Samuel M. Zeigler (re-’36),

Kingsport, Tenn., died July 13, 2009.

He was a veteran of World War II

and retired from Tennessee Eastman.

Among survivors are his wife, Kitty

Dearing Zeigler; a son, Samuel Zeigler

III, and a daughter, Jenny Bond.

Katherine Gibson Crego (re-

’39), Wilder, Idaho, died June

9, 2009. She was a school

teacher. Among survivors are

her children, Vera Kenyon,

Charles Crego, Don Crego,

Annie Crego and David Crego.

Dorothy B. Smallwood (’41),

Riverside, Calif., died Aug. 30, 2009.

She taught school at the California

School for the Deaf.

Harry E. Ryburn (re-’46), Tulsa,

Okla., died June 13, 2009. He worked

for Texaco for more than 30 years.

Marion L. Spangler (’46),

Murfreesboro, Tenn., died Oct. 6,

2009. He was president and owner

of Spangler Oil Company. Among

survivors are sons Gregory Spangler

and Pat Spangler. Memorial donations

may be made to Emory & Henry

College.

Rosamond Bartlett Clay (’47),

Jacksonville, Fla., died Oct. 15, 2009.

She was a school teacher and a

residential realtor. She was preceded

in death by her husband Edwin M.

Clay (re-’49). Among survivors are

daughters Elaine Clay Ray (re-’72),

Barbara McNeal and Teresa Lussier.

J. Dan Reasor (’49), Abingdon,

Va., died Oct. 26, 2009. He was

a retired dentist with 39 years of

service. Among survivors are his

wife, Margaret Jones Reasor (re-’51);

daughters Ruth Blevins, Rachel Bise, and

Rebekah Reasor; a son-in-law, Fred Blevins

(’78); and grandson Derrick Reasor (’05).

William P. Sheffield (re-’49),

Abingdon, Va., died Oct. 21, 2009. He was

a veteran of World War II and an attorney

for 58 years in Washington County. Among

survivors are his sons and their wives Eddie

Sheffield (’64) and Doris Owens Sheffield

(’76) and David Sheffield (’70) and Beth

McDonald Sheffield (’83).

Jim Watkins (re-’50), Kingsport,

Tenn., died Sept. 27, 2009. He served in the

U.S. Navy during World War II. He was a

mechanical contractor. Among survivors are

his wife, Margaret Penn Fausold; daughter

Anne Watkins Tolley; son James Watkins;

and step-children Alyson Fausold and

William Penn Fausold.

Berton F. DeBusk Jr. (re-’51),

Abingdon, Va., died Oct. 1, 2009. He was

a veteran of World War II and owned and

operated DeBusk Furniture and Appliance

Company and DeBusk Custom Draperies.

Among survivors are his wife, Freeda

Goodman DeBusk; son Mark DeBusk;

daughter Kristi DeBusk Massie; sisters Stella

DeBusk Stephon (’66) and Charlotte DeBusk

Yarbrough (re-’50); and brother Donald

DeBusk (’60).

Herbert L. DeBusk Sr. (re-’51), Glade

Spring, Va., died June 30, 2009. He was the

owner of Appalachian Plastics Inc. Among

survivors are his wife, Betty Frye DeBusk,

and grandchildren Kimberly DeBusk

Frondorf (’99) and Rebecca DeBusk Dye

(’04).

John H. Hackler (’51), Fries, Va.,

died Aug. 25, 2009. Among survivors are his

wife, Mildred Hackler, and daughters Nickie

Hackler, Linda Jones, and Patricia Handy.

Walter (Barney) Jennings Sr. (’51),

Hillsville, Va., died May 9, 2009. He was a

U.S. Army veteran of the Korean Conflict

and a retired dentist. Among survivors

are his wife, Joan Ledbetter Jennings, and

sons Walter Jennings Jr., Charles Jennings,

Joseph Jennings and Michael Jennings.

William R. McAllister (’52), Marion,

Va., died July 23, 2009. He was in the

U.S. Army during the Korean War and a

vocational agriculture teacher in Dickinson

County. Among survivors is his wife, Sue

Parks McAllister.

William O. Marshall (’53), Bristol,

Tenn., died Oct. 25, 2009. He served in

the U.S. Army and retired from the Social

Security Administration. Among survivors

are his children, William Marshall, Stuart

Marshall, Allyson Fealtman, and stepson

William Leonard.

Carl P. “C.P.” Brickey (’54),

Broadford, Va., died Sept. 3, 2009. He was

a U.S. Army veteran. Among survivors are

his wife, Sue Hicks Brickey; son Preston

Brickey; daughter Kathy Pearce; sister Page

Brickey Arnold (’65); and grandson Carl

Brickey (’83).

John K. Henderson (re-’55),

Damascus, Va., died July 1, 2009. He was a

World War II veteran of the U.S. Army Air

Corps and a retired investigator with the

Washington County Department of Social

Services. He was a former member of the

Damascus Volunteer Fire Department

and a former chief of police of Damascus.

Among survivors are his wife, Annie S.

Henderson; sons Jack Henderson, John

Henderson Jr. (’71), Vance Henderson and

Jerry Henderson (’75) and his wife, Betsy

Reinicker Henderson (’75).

Lewis J. DeBusk (’56), Abingdon,

Va., died Oct. 22, 2009. He was in the Air

Force and then worked as an executive for

several large engineering and construction

companies. Among survivors are a son,

Michael DeBusk, and a daughter, Linda Pike.

Richard P. Thompson (re-’57),

Ridgeway, Va., died Oct. 28, 2009. He

served in the U.S. Army and retired as vice

president of the corporate communication

for Martinsville Speedway. Among survivors

are daughters Julie Lilly and Jennifer

Prater and sons Jeff Thompson and James

Thompson.

Roger L. Ward (’57), New Orleans,

La., died July 17, 2009. He was a retired

outreach director of Trinity Episcopal

Church. Among survivors are his wife,

Gayle Gibbs Ward; children Marlowe Bober,

Caitlin Ward, Jonathan Ward; step-children

Matthew Hales, Benjamin Hales, Ethan

Hales; and sisters Janis Ward Carter (’60)

and Martha Ward Duane (’64).

In M

emo

riam

IN MEMORIAM - 32

ALUMNI WINTER 2010

continued on page 35

IN MEMORIAM - 33

Dr. Lee Thomas Douglas died Sept. 24, 2009. Dr. Douglas taught biology at Emory & Henry from 1952-1959. Dr. Douglas received a B.A. degree at Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Ore., and a Ph.D. in zoology at the University of California at Berkeley. He studied at the Oak Ridge Institute of Nuclear Studies. Douglas received two Ph.D.’s, in genetics and mathematics. He taught and did research in the U.S. and in the Netherlands. He was a consultant for the government through the Department of Health, Education and Welfare. According to his obituary, Douglas “loved nature, photography, music, reading, bowling and playing chess.” And he “enthusiastically contributed his life to countless students, education and research.” One of Douglas’s former students, Dr. Bob Buchanan (’58), said, "Dr. Douglas was known not only for his brilliance and energy, but also for his candor and tenacious memory. On one recent occasion, we discussed classes at Emory, in particular those he taught during my student days (1954-58). We were reminiscing about Comparative Anatomy, arguably the hardest course in the Biology Department, that I took junior year. As he was going over the class roll (he missed no one), he mentioned the name of a classmate and said in his sagacious style, ‘As I recall he did a bit better than you.’ Of course he was right, I made an ‘A’ and my classmate ‘A+.’ However, irrespective of the grade, it was always evident that he cared very much about all of us.” He is survived by his children, Ralph, Jeroen, Brian, Julie and Janet. v

Sarah Venable Wood (’57), Hudson,

Fla., died Oct. 2, 2009. While living in

Damascus, Va., she was the owner and

operator of The Maples Bed and Breakfast.

She was preceded in death by her husband,

Judson Wood (’56). Among survivors are

daughters Mary Katherine Wood and Judith

Lynn McDonald.

George A. O’Bryan (’59), Lebanon,

Va., died Aug. 15, 2009. He served in the

U.S. Air Force during the Korean conflict

and worked for the Virginia Department of

Transportation for 32 years before retiring

as resident engineer. After retirement,

he worked as street superintendent

for the Town of Lebanon and then as

engineering project manager for HDR, Inc.

Among survivors are his wife, Ann Gravely

O’Bryan, and daughters Molly Fox and Amy

McMurray.

Larry C. Brown (re-’66), Glen

Allen, Va., died June 10, 2009. He had

most recently served as a consultant with

VACO Richmond LLC. Among survivors

are his wife, Sue, and daughter Julie Ellis.

Memorial donations may be made to

Emory & Henry College.

Timothy R. Bell (’68), Marietta, Ga.,

died Nov. 29, 2008. He was the director of

education for ITS, Inc. and in 1989 formed

T. R. Bell Associates, a company that

provided accredited healthcare education

programs nationwide.

Gary A. Wright (’69), Burlington,

N.C., died Sept. 18, 2009. He retired

from Universal Products in 2001. Among

survivors are his wife, Laura Stowe Wright,

and sons Matthew Wright and Adam

Wright.

Jerry A. Fields (’76), Lebanon, Va.,

died Sept. 24, 2009. He taught school in

Russell County for five years before opening

his florist business, Fields of Flowers in

Lebanon.

Aleta Catron Sutherland (’77),

Marion, Va., died Oct. 12, 2009. She

was the minister of Christian education

of the First United Methodist Church in

Cookeville, Tenn. Among survivors are

her husband, James Sutherland (’76); two

stepsons, Timothy Sutherland and Jeremy

Sutherland; a brother Ernie Catron (’81);

and a nephew, Jonathan Catron (current

E&H student).

Anne Sironko Bagge (’79),

Wilmington, N.C., died July 4, 2009. She

was a counselor at Asheboro High School.

Among survivors are a daughter, Laura

Bagge, and her mother, Margaret Friel

Sironko (’76).

Roosevelt “Scooter” Scott (’79),

Richmond, Va., died Aug. 8, 2009.

Kathy O’Neal Pressing (’81),

Wytheville, Va., died Aug. 19, 2009. She

was a licensed social worker who worked

for children, mentally and physically

challenged persons, and the elderly. Among

survivors is her husband, Andrew Pressing.

George M. Rawn (’81), Morristown,

Tenn., died July 13, 2009. He served as

chaplain and chaplain coordinator of

Morristown Hamblen Hospital and retired

as pastor of Noe’s Chapel United Methodist

Church in 2005. Among survivors are his

wife, Anne Rawn, son Jonathan Rawn,

daughter Beverly Rawn, and stepchildren

Michael Miller, David Miller and Terri Sykes.

Barbara Brooks Hollandsworth

(’83), Atkins, Va., died July 17, 2009. She

was a reading and science teacher at

Marion Middle School. Among survivors

are her husband, Bill Hollandsworth, and

children Angela Rash and Melissa Poe.

Deborah Terry Patterson (’83),

Bristol, Va., died Oct. 10, 2009. She was the

director of student counseling at Virginia

Intermont College. Among survivors are her

husband, Glenn Patterson (’81), and sons

Sean and Jamie.

Employees

Lee T. Douglas, Apache Junction,

Az., died Sept. 24, 2009. He was a biology

professor from 1952 to 1959 (see story

above).

Maye Randall Hill, Emory, Va., died

June 7, 2009. She served from 1960 to

1985 as associate professor and director of

elementary education. Memorial donations

may be made to the general Scholarship

Fund at Emory & Henry.

Shirley Osborne, Damascus, Va.,

died Sept. 14, 2009. She retired from the

E&H Development Office after 11 years of

service. Among survivors are her husband,

Kenneth Osborne (’57), and daughter

Millicent Davis.

Douglas Remembered For His Brilliance and Tenacious Memory

ALUMNI WINTER 2010IN MEMORIAM - 34

Bob Johnson often reminded the Emory

& Henry community that it has a unique,

common bond. This fall, that community

gathered to remember the many ways he

personified that bond and the values that

strengthen it.

Nine individuals spoke during a

memorial service held in the King Athletic

Center on Bob Johnson court, honoring

the former coach and athletic director who

died Aug. 22 after a long battle with kidney

cancer. They spoke of the best qualities of

the former head men’s basketball coach,

whose values reflected strongly the values of

a college.

“We have a common bond in Coach

Johnson,” said Leon Hill, a former E&H

basketball player and member of the E&H

Class of 1991. “He loved this place and you

people.”

Johnson, according to those who

spoke, believed in hard work, loyalty,

determination, honesty, compassion,

family and community. “Outspoken? Yes.

Concerned about the needs of others?

Yes,” said E&H President Rosalind Reichard.

“Bob was a remarkable combination of

intelligence, vision and good will.”

Johnson’s son, Casey, a high school

basketball coach and member of the E&H

Class of 2000, paid tribute to his father’s

influence on his son’s life through the

example he led. “Dad’s goal was to be the

best person he could be day-in and day-out,

and I think he did a pretty good job of it.”

The approach of the decorated soldier

of the Vietnam War was direct, sometimes

harsh. “He had the tact, softness and deft

touch of a team of mules,” recalled Mike

Young, head men’s basketball coach at

Wofford College and a member of the E&H

Class of 1986. “He called it like he saw it and

came right at you, and I loved him for it.”

Johnson’s toughness could be

frightening for his players, said Jimmy

Allen, a member of the E&H Class of 1993

and head men’s basketball coach at Averett

University. “You’re darn right we were scared

to play for Coach, but what we were most

scared of is not what most people think. We

were most scared in disappointing Coach or

letting him down in some way.”

That commitment to a coach helped

lead the Wasps to some extraordinary

success in Division III men’s basketball.

During his 27 years of coaching at Emory &

“Bob was a remarkable combination of

intelligence, vision and good will.” — Dr. Reichard

Revered Mentor, Friend and Family Man Remembered

Henry, Johnson built a national reputation,

helped by five teams in the NCAA playoffs,

including two in the Sweet 16. He was

honored three times as Old Dominion

Athletic Coach of the Year and three times as

NCAA South Region Coach of the Year.

His athletes have included numerous All-

Americans, ODAC players of the year, All-

Conference players and one National Player

of the Year.

ALUMNI WINTER 2010

Before retiring from coaching in

2007, Johnson gained national attention

for his use of a fast-paced run-and-gun

offense that helped his team to winning

seasons and some

big upsets over

nationally ranked

teams. In 2007, he

was awarded the

Division III Service

Award by the National Association of

Basketball Coaches.

After his retirement from coaching,

Johnson continued to work full-time as

Emory & Henry’s athletic director. In that

capacity, he provided valuable guidance to

the E&H coaching staff and worked to raise

money for the construction of a stadium that

IN MEMORIAM - 35

IN MEMORIAM - continued from page 33

Former President’s Spouse

Lucy Bedinger Finch, Nashville,

Tenn., died June 22, 2009. She was

preceded in death by her husband,

E&H President William C. Finch. Among

survivors are sons William T. Finch and

Richard C. Finch. Memorial donations

may be made to Emory & Henry.

Former Board of Trustee

Toy F. Reid, Kingsport, Tenn.,

died July 26, 2009. Among survivors are

wife, Josephine Eggerton Reid, daughter

Marjo Reid and son Mark Reid. v

honors the late Fred Selfe (’69), Johnson’s

best friend and another former E&H

athletic director.

In January of 2008, Johnson was

honored at a

ceremony dedicating

the Bob Johnson

Court. At that time,

Johnson reminded

the E&H community

that what binds it together are its dreams

and hard work. “This is where I choose to

be. There’s no place on earth I would rather

pursue my dreams.”

On that day, that community came

together once again to remember that

Johnson not only spoke of E&H values; he

lived them passionately every day. v

During 30 years at Emory & Henry as coach and athletic director, Johnson, a man of dreams and of action, mentored and befriended countless students and colleagues. His family was his inspiration. Johnson is pictured below with wife Sheri, daughter Lee and son Casey.

”There’s no place on earth I would rather pursue my dreams.” — Bob Johnson

When I arrived at Emory & Henry in 1985, my

assigned duties included advising the student radio

station, WASP. During the summer, I had come to

campus to learn about the station operation and

discovered that no one on campus knew how the signal

worked.

A local telephone engineer agreed to come up

and help uncover the mystery. In a

back closet at the station on

the ground floor of Martin

Brock, we found three or four

wires that led across telephone

polls as part of a carrier current

system that used electrical wiring

for transmitting a signal in a few

residence halls. A radio near an

outlet might pick up the

WASP programming, but

it’s doubtful that there

were many —or any—

listeners.

Nevertheless, students went

faithfully to their radio shifts, and my classes

prepared newscasts by editing cassette

tapes between two decks. We took our roles

seriously, and I learned that if I parked my car

directly under the wires on campus, I could

actually listen to the news and programming.

In 1990, Development Director Richard

Trollinger (‘71) called me to tell me that

Hampton and Susie Quarles Allison (’35, ’39),

alumni from Alexandria, Va., had offered to

give the station some equipment. Off I went in a college

van to retrieve some well-preserved radio equipment,

but I returned to campus with something much more

valuable: Hampton and Susie offered to buy a transmitter

and antenna to put us on the air if the College would

make the FCC application and pay for the engineering

costs. I called President Charlie Sydnor to describe the

offer. His response: “Proceed forthwith.”

A station applicant before the FCC may request

specific call letters, and we wanted to be “WEHC.” The

Allisons knew that there had already been one WEHC at

Emory & Henry. In 1929, the College joined early radio

pioneers and put one of the first stations on air in the

state of Virginia. Hampton Allison had begun his love

of radio working at WEHC-AM, but the station was sold

to raise capital during the Depression. The good news:

WEHC call letters had remained unclaimed.

During Homecoming of October 1992, we went on air

with FCC approval to broadcast at 100 watts on 90.7,

WEHC–FM. The signal covered campus and a bit beyond.

Very quickly, we began wondering why we hadn’t

applied for more power from the beginning. Again, with

Hampton and Susie’s offer of help, we wrote an application to

the FCC for a whopping 500 watts. And from there, we were

halted in our tracks—for 11 years!

Our 1995 application for

a power increase came in conflict

with applications for Bristol

signals from both Virginia Tech

and American Family Association.

In FCC terms, we were MX’d,

or stuck in mutually exclusive

applications. No one would

back down.

We were

David, with

little budget

and no big-

time lawyers,

against two

Goliaths. But

we held firm.

On January

26, 2007,

for varied

and complex

regulatory

reasons,

Emory & Henry

prevailed in getting the license to expand to 500 watts. We

immediately established a partnership with WVTF of Virginia

Tech, applied for even more power, and began establishing a

college and community station model, enhanced by WVTF’s

BBC and NPR programming from Radio I.Q.

This time, our application gained fast approval. On

Monday morning, October 26, 2009, at the base of the 197

foot tower and transmitter, 91-year-old Susie Allison flipped

the symbolic switch at the very moment that our engineer

raised the power for 90.7, WEHC-FM, to nearly 9,000 watts.

Emory & Henry’s move from carrier current to a major

radio voice, including a constant Internet stream to the world,

provides just one more example of the College’s mission to

service and to increasing in excellence. Perhaps best of all, our

powerful signal now allows us to communicate to the larger

region about our wonderful College and community—and

the impressive people herein. v

A Major Voice By Dr. Teresa Keller

Some faces of the early student voices at WEHC.

Em

ory

Mem

ory

STAY CONNECTEDRemember your experiences at Emory & Henry? Those special times create an important, enduring connection among you and your friends and between you and future generations.

Stay connected. Be a part of Emory & Henry’s future as well as its legacy.

And this year especially, Emory & Henry needs you! Make a gift on-line at: www.ehc.edu

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