cu...to help make the world a better place. “you are generous people and churches who help us...

CU todaySpring 2017VoLume 73

A uniVerSity reLAtionS pubLiCAtionEditor and Designer: Brooke Reich

Writers: Brooke Reich, Amanda Sharpe, and Christina Thomas

Photography: Brooke Reich and Christina Thomas

Contributers:Betty Brabban, Campus Ministry, Charlotte Dinkins, Trey Gilliam, Alison Kolezynski, Leah Lambson, Meredith Long, John McKeith, Danny Moore, Charles Revelle

Cover Story Photography: Todd Wright ’84, Todd Wright Photography

Printed by: Centric Communications

oFFiCe oF DeVeLopmentVice President for DevelopmentJohn M. Tayloe ’94(252) 398-1232

Senior Development DirectorDirector of Alumni RelationsKay Thomas(252) 398-6436

Senior Development DirectorDirector of University Relations & CommunicationBrooke Reich(252) 398-6526

Director of Church and Community RelationsLou Ann Gilliam(252) 398-6317

Director of Annual FundElizabeth Riddick Davis(252) 398-6226

Associate Director of University RelationsAmanda Bradshaw Sharpe ’10(252) 398-1145

Assistant Director of University RelationsChristina E. Thomas ’16(252) 398-6319

Administrative Assistant to theVice President for DevelopmentLiz Brown(252) 398-1233

importAnt ContACtSAdmissions: 1 (888) 4-CHOWANAthletics Offices: (252) 398-1239Office of the President (252) 398-6221

www.chowan.edu/givewww.gocuhawks.comwww.facebook.com/chowanalumniwww.twitter.com/chowanalumni

in thiS iSSue

10 .............................................New Health & Fitness Center 20 .............................................Love Story Comes Full Circle

Alumni Spotlight: June and Harold Babb ’70

24...................................... Vincent Athletic Center Opening26 .................................Jim Garrison Hall of Fame Inductees 32 ........................................... Athletics: (For Brave Hawks Fans) 36 ............................Class Acts: (Alumni & Faculty Achievements)

In my youth Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons were one of my favorite musical groups. In December 1963 they released a song which became a sensation in the pop music world – “Oh, What a Night.” With that in mind I just have to say “Oh, What a Year” 2016-2017 was. Chowan continued our amazing growth with record enrollments in both fall and spring semesters. This was the eighth consecutive year for records. This unprecedented growth places Chowan in the top percentage of growth in the nation.

Blessings AbideIn fall 2016 we opened five new

buildings—four residential buildings in Whites Crossing (for a total of nine in the past four years) and the Vincent Athletic Center which houses the men’s and women’s soccer teams and the men’s and women’s lacrosse teams. The beauty of the campus continues to improve, with a flag pole for the Vincent Athletic Center, a fountain for the smaller campus lake, new benches, and other enhancements.

Fall 2016 also saw the reopening of the campus pool as the Bynum R. Brown Aquatic Center. This state of the art facility is the envy of many schools. The new women’s swim team began competition, hosted several meets on campus, and compiled a fine winning record.

In fall 2016 we also opened the new Health and Fitness Center in the Helms Center. Open to all students but with female students as the focus, this center is

also state of the art and rivals facilities at much larger schools. A new staff member was added to supervise the Center and to assist students and staff on how to improve their health and conditioning.

Transformation ContinuesThis summer we will make significant

improvements to the interior of the Hawks Nest, including air-conditioning, new restrooms, and an enlarged and enhanced Murf ’s. As we look toward the next few years there will be a new football stadium, a new cafeteria/student center and a new School of Business hall. With this continuing growth yet more housing will be needed. One of my prayers for the campus is for a chapel.

In fall 2016 we also were blessed with several new faculty members who brought new ideas and skills to tbe classrooms. Along with the faculty already here, it could be argued successfully that now Chowan has the strongest faculty in its almost 170 year history.

New Heights AchievedJust as the academic program

continues to evolve—for example, the new Recreation major—the athletic program is growing. We fielded teams in two new sports—women’s swimming and men’s lacrosse, and we gained associate membership in Conference Carolinas for men’s and women’s soccer, men’s and women’s lacrosse and women’s golf. Competitive success in the CIAA included another winning season for football, another division championship

for volleyball, winning seasons for men’s and women’s basketball, another men’s golf championship, and another softball championship. Men’s and women’s tennis were very competitive and won titles. The men’s team ranked in the top 50 nationwide for the first time and were honored to host the NCAA men’s regional tournament.

The Future is BrightA student mission trip to South

Africa and a Reformation Study-tour of Germany, France and Switzerland will begin immediately after graduation.

The list of accolades for 2016-2017 could go on and on, but I hope you sense the enthusiasm that growth quantitatively and qualitatively brings. Chowan University is blessed with fine faculty and staff who support our Christian mission and who work to make this university great. Thanks also to that “great cloud of witnesses” of alumni and friends who give and pray for Chowan University.

With gratitude and faith,

M. CHrisTopHer WHiTePresident, Chowan University

From the President

oh, WhAt A yeAr!

CU ToDAy | Spring 20172 CU ToDAy | Spring 2017 3

Chowan University Campus Ministry works throughout the academic year to change hearts at home and abroad. The Ministry spearheaded mission trips to North Charleston, SC, Shelby, NC, and Atlanta, GA this year, with plans to travel to Johannesburg, South Africa in May to help build better homes for orphaned children. A network of supporters makes this possible, including the Chowan Christian Service Association, individual donors, local churches, and contributors to the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship’s Mission Resource Plan, among many others.

Campus Ministry stays extremely busy. Every night of the week but Saturday there is a student-led Ministry that meets on campus. Often weekends are spent ministering in local churches. Campus Ministry is in their third year of training Ministry Chaplains, upperclassmen living in freshman residence halls providing another layer of welcome, hospitality and friendship to the newest Chowan family members.

Additionally, Campus Ministry is excited about the mission opportunities they will be able to share with students in the upcoming year.

Campus Ministry concludes each school year with a mission trip. Last year, they went to North Charleston, SC, departing right after graduation to work with Metanoia, a ministry in a neighborhood that has largely been abandoned by institutions and business. They participated in construction, painting, and working in a community garden that serves as a co-op for a healthy food desert. A highlight of the trip was their visit to Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church, affectionately referred to as Mother Emanuel, where they were guests at a Wednesday night Bible study nearly a year to the day after the tragic shooting. Reverend Drew Phillips, Associate Minister to the University, says, “The grace and hospitality with which we were welcomed was a challenge and a humbling event.”

In December, Campus Ministry took part in a weekend construction and worship trip to Shelby, NC. Ten students attended this mission trip to serve a community in need, sacrificing part of their winter break in order to serve others.

In March fourteen students traveled to Atlanta, GA, during spring break, where they served at the Gateway Center, operated homework hotspots, and visited the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. With a mission to end homelessness in Metro Atlanta, Gateway Center serves more than 5,000 people annually through therapeutic programs and community collaboration. Chowan students were surprised to learn that many of the residents hold college degrees and were more like themselves than they had previously assumed. The encounters led them to reflect on their own lives with more gratitude.

The students also visited the National Center for Civil and Human Rights,

a humbling experience that students described as a tool to better help them serve. They learned about genocide in Ethiopia, and sex trafficking in Rwanda, among other topics. Junior Qeashaunda Johnson shared that the experience encouraged her to “fight for other people who don’t have what I have.”

Amber Cunningham, a sophomore, discovered how the abiding presence of God intersects with the call to service. “You can’t bring God anywhere,” she said. “He’s already there no matter where you go. Our job is to make sure people can see his love, his compassion, and his works through the light He has put in us.”

The day following graduation, Campus Ministry will lead a trip to Johannesburg, South Africa to work with the ministry Door of Hope, which for years has welcomed babies who have been abandoned, for whatever reason, no questions asked. Initially, they raised children and helped them find adoptive homes. With the rise of human traffickers adopting children and using them for profit, Door of Hope has now committed to raise the babies

left to them until they are 18. Door of Hope has asked Chowan University’s Campus Ministry to help build homes for the children they raise.

Reverends Mari Wiles and Drew Phillips, Minister to the University and Associate Minister to the University respectively, share their thanks with the Chowan University and Murfreesboro communities for partnering with them to help make the world a better place. “You are generous people and churches who help us serve alongside our students better. Thank you for your prayers, your generous giving and your invitations to worship with you. We welcome them year-round!” stated Phillips.

These transformative experiences are not possible without the generous support and the many ways in which the community helps the Ministry serve. For more information on partnering with Chowan University’s Campus Ministry please contact Reverend Mari Wiles at [email protected] or (252) 398-6268 or Reverend Drew Phillips at [email protected] or (252) 398-6383.

Chowan CaMpUs Ministry

ChAngeS heArtS At home AnD AbroAD

Chowan University’s Campus Ministry is convinced there is something about doing mission work that puts the world into new perspective. “Service opens our eyes to the need and how big God’s world is,” says Reverend Drew Phillips, Associate Minister to the University. When students are given the opportunity to aid those in need, not only does the experience expand the world they live in, but the life they live becomes a tad more inclusive to the needs of those around them.

On Saturday, October 8, 2016, Hurricane Matthew hit North Carolina. Monday afternoon Phillips contacted the West Chowan Baptist Association to assess the need and offer the assistance of the University with aid. By Friday, approximately thirty Chowan Football players, along with Head Coach Tim Place and Phillips were in Windsor to offer their services.

“I was impressed with the students’ willingness to do the work,” comments Phillips. The work he was referring

to was called “Mud-outs”. Hurricane Matthew washed water from local swamps and overflowing sewer lines into the area that collected underneath buildings causing severe water damage. Students suited up in protective gear and crawled under houses to pull out soggy insulation material.

The call to serve was answered again by a group of approximately fifteen students who during fall break traveled to Wakelon Baptist Church to salvage the floor of the fellowship hall. Duties were divided amongst the group; floorboards were removed and replaced with plywood for a temporary fix and toys in the church’s nursery were cleaned and disinfected.

With areas still in need of relief, the call was answered for a third time resulting in a group of close to thirty students pulling insulation from under more houses in Tarboro, NC. This time when the two fifteen-passenger vans reached the outskirts of the city some first-time mission students were shocked to see

that less than an hour from where they resided on campus there were people who even a month after the hurricane still had no electricity. Piles of furniture and sentimental objects lay on the side of the street.

Phillips took the approach to meet the need as often as he could, “A few hours of relief is a gift. People were overwhelmed.” Chowan students and staff were able to give the gift of three unprompted trips totaling in twenty hours of service.

“We chose to help in this way because service work like this requires no specialty skills, only a physical presence and willingness to work,” adds Phillips. “It is important that we show students a way to unite over something positive and be a part of the solution.”

Being the hands and feet of Jesus through serving others puts activity to our faith. Campus Ministry plans to continue being active in mission work so that students get to see the world in new perspective.

hUrriCane Matthew relief serviCe

proViDeS neW perSpeCtiVe yoUr uniVerSity reLAtionS teaM

CU Today MagazineCU today is distributed three times a year to share the stories of Chowan University with alumni, friends, and other key stakeholders.

Chowan University in the News

our weekly news e-mail is packed with information about all the latest news and events for subscribers worldwide.

News releaseswe submit articles to local, regional, and national news publications on a near daily basis.

social Mediawe maintain an active presence on facebook, instagram, youtube, and twitter. follow @chowanalumni and @chowanuniversity to join the conversation.

Brooke Reich (center)senior director of University relations & CommunicationA native of Texas, Brooke is a storyteller and branding expert who loves spreadsheets almost as much as she loves a well-designed logo. Brooke directs the efforts of the University Relations team and loves the home and family she has found in Chowan.

Amanda Sharpe (right)Associate director & media Communication specialistThis military brat hails from all over the world but calls Carrsville, VA her home. She graduated from Chowan in 2010 and has been trying to get back ever since. Amanda is a wordsmith who writes and perfects dozens of press releases each month and has already tripled our average output.

Christina Thomas (left)Assistant director & digital Communication specialistA 2016 Chowan graduate and former Best All Around Student, Christina has revolutionized Chowan’s use of

photography, videography, and digital media. She covers campus events, creates video content, and manages our public-facing social media accounts with her trademark energy and enthusiasm.

Operating as part of the Chowan University Office of Development, the University Relations team builds and strengthens the Chowan University community of alumni, parents, friends and students. We manage news stories, publications, social media, promotion, advertising, and brand identity for the University.

Our job is to collect and tell the stories of Chowan University students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and friends - basically, the most fun job on campus. Got a story worth sharing? Please let us know about it! You can email [email protected] or submit your information via our online form at chowan.edu/classact.



She’s the first to admit she’s a talker. But the talent of effectively communicating with all kinds of people has led Chowan student Melissa Hernandez down the path to places she never thought she’d go, including a mission trip to Cuba and study abroad trips to Scotland and the Holy Land.

Since her arrival on campus in August 2013, she has excelled in leadership positions while serving others through her work with organizations such as the E3 Worship Team and Rotaract. Using her faith as her guide, Hernandez is committed to helping people create a better future and to the welfare and dignity of each student and community member. For her work, Chowan honored her with the Faith in Your Future Award in April 2016.

Throughout her career at Chowan, Hernandez has promoted student life on campus and inspired students to focus on leadership, scholarship, and community service in order to gain success in life.

She ran for Miss Chowan University in the Fall of 2016 and took a uniquely low-key approach to campaigning, posting just twice to Facebook. But her message effectively recontextualized the nature of the competition. After enumerating her (lengthy) on-campus resume, Melissa wrote, “I tell you all of this not to boast, but instead to let you know the extent of my commitment to Chowan University and its students.” She went on to reiterate, “I do not want to win to add something to my resume or for a title, as there are plenty of other opportunities for that. I seek your vote because I know that I have spent the last three years at Chowan University helping students academically, organizing events for the students here, and dedicating hours of time to community service both on and off campus. These are all things that you should consider when choosing your next Miss Chowan.”

She was truly humbled and honored when the results revealed her victory. “Chowan University prides itself on being a diverse

University,” Melissa says. “Its diversity has opened doors for students who are often counted out in society due to their minority status. I’m honored to be part of making history as the first Hispanic Miss Chowan University.”

Melissa is outspoken and opinionated, two tons of dynamite in a short but feisty package. She learned early to put all that passion and drive to good use. She credits a good deal of her success to her mentor, Bervin Harris, cofounder and CEO of Renaissance Youth Center in the Bronx, NY. Harris encouraged her interest in politics, which sparked as early as age 10. He also cultivated her innate leadership qualities, inviting her to serve on the center’s youth council at age 13. At 18, Melissa was instrumental in the creation of Youth in Power, made up of young people from all five boroughs to spread positive change across New York City. By participating in mayoral meetings, community boards, and partnering with community organizations, Melissa and others on the council began to grow into the advocates so desperately needed by their peers and neighborhoods.

“I have passion for people,” Melissa says, “and I think that’s what he [Bervin] saw in me. I care about change. And I’ve always wanted to impact change, even when I was little.”

Upon arriving at Chowan University, Melissa quickly got involved and set her sights on high achievement. “I looked at the students who were succeeding above me,” she says, particularly noting 2015 Best All Around Student Jennifer Humphrey, and decided, “That’s going to be me some day.”

Melissa says she is not naturally a good student, but she fell in love with the history department, especially thanks to Dr.

Greg Taylor. “He always says to just make an argument and support it. And I can do that!” she says.

Currently, she serves as Copresident of the Honors College Student Association, President of the North Carolina Phi Chapter of the Alpha Chi Honor Society, a Presidential Ambassador, a Resident Director, a member of the Ethics Bowl Team, and a Campus Tour Guide. In the past, she has served as the President of the History Club, member of The Brown Lady magazine editorial board, and Team Captain of the Brown Lady Academic Bowl History Team, which won three championships during her tenure.

In addition to the Alpha Chi Honor Society, Hernandez is a member of the Pi Gamma Mu Honor Society, Phi Alpha Theta Honor Society, Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, and Sigma Tau Delta Honor Society. In February, she was recognized as a Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges for the second time. As one of her fellow students recently wrote, she is “the shining star on campus.”

When asked what she would go back and tell that 18 year old girl whose family and friends predicted she would never amount to much, Melissa grows thoughtful. “I would tell her never to let anyone else define who you are. I would remind her to listen to the people who see more in you, not less, and who encourage you to pursue that.”

“I would never have believed what I’ve accomplished in the last four years,” she continues. “It’s easy to forget how valuable you are, how important you are. But we are all precious.”

stUdent sPotlight: melissA hernAndez

oh, hoW She ShineS

Considering her sterling track record, it’s hard to imagine anyone would be unable to recognize her potential. yet, she says, “Just five years ago some family and people from my neighborhood predicted that i would be 18 years old and pregnant. they said i would drop out of school.

they told me i would never leave the Bronx. they told me i would never amount to much.”

they could not have been more wrong!

Never let anyone else define who you are. Listen to the people who see more in you, not less,

and who encourage you to pursue that.


University of edinburgh, scotland. University of Cambridge, england. Chowan University, Murfreesboro, nC. what could these three institutions have in common? the better question to ask is, who?

Dr. Paul R. Gilliam III, better known as Trey, began his education at Gardner-Webb University, receiving his Bachelor of Arts. He went on to earn his Master of Divinity from Gardner-Webb University and Master of Arts from University of North Carolina, Charlotte. While working on his second master degree at University of North Carolina, Dr. Gilliam decided to pursue his PhD. He was encouraged to seek out programs with professors whose scholarship overlapped with his interests, which led him to study at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland.

He began his PhD studies in Early Christianity, a field also called patristics from the Greek word meaning Father. Most early Christian texts were written by men, today known collectively as the “Church Fathers.”

The chance to study in Scotland, was not only a great opportunity for him, but for his entire family. It gave them all the chance to expand their horizons and provide a natural form of education. His wife, Lou Ann, and daughter, Matty Grace, benefitted from living and studying abroad, too. Living abroad gave them all the chance to experience different cultures, not just Scottish culture. Matty Grace had a best friend who was a Muslim, and to this day she is concerned about the appropriate representation of the faith and gets upset over the stereotyping of Muslim people.

Dr. Gilliam describes Edinburgh as a big-small city. While there are about half a million people, the city is very walkable. “On a pretty day, there is no place I’d rather be,” he says.

Dr. Gilliam later applied for a fellowship at the University of Cambridge in England to study where William Whiston (1667-1752) worked and studied. Whiston is the topic of Dr.

Gilliam’s book in progress. He was able to live where Whiston lived, walk where he walked, and visit churches where he preached. Through the Cambridge as well as the British Library in London, he even had access to books that belonged to Whiston, with his original notes preserved in the margins.

Why would someone with such international experience choose Chowan University in the small town of Murfreesboro, NC? First, the size and scope of the field dictates that religion professors must go where they can find employment. But more importantly, Chowan felt familiar. Dr. Gilliam explains, “I know the language and the environment of small Christian institutions of higher education. It was very beneficial to my own success, so I feel like I’m a good fit at Chowan, and in a lot of ways my background prepared me to do this.” Dr. Gilliam, who also serves as interim pastor to First Baptist Church Ahoskie, has been at Chowan for 6 years now (since 2011).

“Chowan is a teaching University, more than a research University,” shares Dr. Gilliam, whose teaching load is 4 courses per semester. “In light of who we are, I’m grateful for the support I’ve had with my research from the administration. I am grateful that I was awarded the McDowell Columns Prize, that really meant a lot to me. Chowan doesn’t have to recognize research, but it does.” Dr. Gilliam was recently granted tenure and promoted to Associate Professor at the University. No doubt his scholarship, as well as his teaching, was a consideration in that process.

Chowan offers faculty the option to apply for a sabbatical, to be relieved of duties for a semester to focus on research. Dr. Gilliam applied and was accepted for the upcoming spring semester so he can complete work on his book. He acknowledges the sabbatical option as another perk of working for Chowan and another way Chowan supports research and faculty.

“Even though we are a teaching university, I have found the administration to be supportive of my research endeavor. Certainly, my department is, my colleagues are. We celebrate with one another when we have publications and success.”

Although Chowan is not research focused, and Dr. Gilliam does not have to “publish or perish” as he puts it, he is still inspired to continue his research. When he arrived at Chowan, he had some projects and ideas he wanted to pursue and used his summers to write and publish a few articles. He has been published alongside many other authors of internationally known schools. The success ignited his fire to continue his research. Additionally, he explains there is an intimate relationship between research and teaching. His research makes him more knowledgeable and provides a natural transition into the classroom, and allows him to model to the student’s intellectual curiosity.

The matrix of success, supportive colleagues, and administrative support have all inspired Dr. Gilliam to continue in research and publication.

Dr. Gilliam is evidence that research becomes a part of the person. To get to know him, you must first get to know his research. As he speaks of his work, his enthusiasm and fascination are evident. His investment in it easily sparks the curiosity of anyone listening to him tell the story. The glee radiates through the entire room as though he were given a gift he had waited for all year.

Currently Dr. Gilliam is working on two books. His doctoral dissertation, Ignatius of Antioch and the Arian Controversy, has already been accepted for publication and he is now completing the index for the book and his next book, William Whiston and the Apostolic Constitutions: Completing the Reformation, is in the rough draft stages. This book was started in Cambridge. Once the first book is turned in, Dr. Gilliam will be able to give his entire focus to the second book.

Building relationships with students is what Dr. Gilliam enjoys the most about being a professor at Chowan. Just last week, he was able assist a student in arranging a marriage proposal. He explains this experience as having a front row seat to a monumental aspect of one of his students lives.

Closing the interview Dr. Gilliam expressed his appreciation to the Chowan administration for supporting his research projects.

FACUlty sPotlight: dr. trey gilliAm

teACher, preACher, SChoLAr


Chowan opens new heALth & FitneSS

Center

#ChooseGrowth

Chowan University was founded in 1848 as an all women's college. nearly 170 years later, in 2016, the now co-educational University honored its roots by creating a female focused fitness facility. The Chowan University Health and Fitness Center was created due to the increase in female enrollment, and boasts female friendly equipment, allowing women on campus to work out in a safe environment. The female focused facility could very well be the first of its kind on a college campus the size of Chowan. Even many larger universities have yet to incorporate more inclusive and gender appropriate fitness facilities.

In September of 2016, Chowan University completed the final phases of renovation of the Helms Center. The newly renovated center now houses a state of the art pool, newly refurbished

and air conditioned Basketball court, and completely renovated locker rooms. The final phase, finishing off the project, included the brand-new Health and Fitness Center geared toward female students.

The Helms Center, originally built 1978-80, has undergone multi-phase renovations over the past few years. Phase I consisted of HVAC, Roofing, and a locker renovation. Phase II saw the addition of the Brown Aquatic Center. Phase III included the Bob Burke Court. Then the Final Phase, IV, introduced the Health and Fitness Center, funded by the Cannon Grant.

The final phase began with excavation of existing equipment and rubber matting in July of 2016. Following, was wall repair and painting of the facility. New flooring, doors, HVAC and office

spaces were also added. The renovations concluded around September of 2016, and new equipment was installed along with final touch up. This phase of the renovation was made possible by a generous grant from the Cannon Foundation.

The Cannon Foundation is an independent foundation established in 1943 by Charles A. Cannon, President and Chairman of Cannon Mills Company for more than 50 years. This endowed foundation accepts unsolicited requests for grants, primarily for capital projects and equipment, with a predominate focus on North Carolina. Organizations must be 501© (3) public charities, however local government agencies and local churches may also be considered. Thirty-five percent of funding is allocated to education.


Chowan previously had a long-standing relationship with the Cannon Foundation. The University received grants year after year to fund different projects. However, like many organizations Chowan has had both ups and downs. When Chowan fell into a time of decline, the University continued to request funding, however, Cannon was not able to oblige during this uncertain time. Eventually, Chowan was asked to stop submitting requests, as an investment could not be made until improvement could be shown.

Chowan obliged and stepped back for a few years. However, under the leadership of President Dr. White, Chowan began to not only grow again, but to flourish. The University grew to the largest size ever, not only in student enrollment, but in physical space and structures. From there, the University continued to prosper. “After 10-15 years”, John Tayloe, Vice President for Development, explains, “applying for grant support was no longer on our radar. I was happily surprised when a Cannon representative who heard of the University’s recent success contacted us and invited us to once again apply for the Cannon Grant.”

The University requested funds for the last phase of the Helms Center, the Health and Fitness Center. This phase was slated to serve primarily women on campus, through encouragement of the Cannon Foundation. In the last decade enrollment has more than doubled, causing the population to shift from predominantly men to 55% women on campus. The campus infrastructure has naturally expanded with the increase of enrollment. Most upperclassmen women live in a new housing community adjacent to the Helms Center. While the Health and Fitness Center offers female friendly equipment and space, the center is open to any Chowan student.

The Helms Center is a center for recreation, physical education activity courses are housed within, and during the summer the space is used for conferences and camps. It is a prime location for large gatherings of students and events.

Upon taking the first step into the Health and Fitness Center, the new rubber floor can be felt beneath the feet. The first step onto the floor is a step onto the Chowan Hawks Athletics Logo. This same logo is painted above the mirrors

on the wall, by Chowan’s very own Lisa Bland (Director of Sports Medicine), with #CHOOSECHOWAN painted beneath. Coach Alex Jones shared, “This is the same floor that University of Virginia, and the North Carolina Panthers have in their weight rooms. We have included 10 power racks to accommodate large groups, and we also have a turf room. ” Other Chowan touches include the athletic’s logo on the weight benches.

The Fitness Center consists of gender appropriate weights and fitness equipment, allowing women to workout in a safe environment. Since the purpose of the facility is to provide gender friendly facilities for women that will encourage health and fitness across campus, Alex Jones was hired with a background in strength and conditioning to help support the new facility. These renovations and improvements enhance the campus atmosphere and provide free-time activities. This approach not only allows female students to feel safer in general, but allows them to engage in safer use of more appropriate equipment tailored to their physiques.

Dr. scott Colclough believes education is the key to open doors. He never envisioned working in Higher Education or being an Academic, much less serving as Dean. He would have been content as a High School teacher or football coach, but his education provided him with an array of opportunities and he grasped each one of them.

Dr. Colclough, currently the Interim Associate Dean for the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences at Middle Tennessee State University is not an alumnus of Chowan University. Nonetheless, he still has a significant relationship with the University, fond memories, and has chosen to forever engrave a piece of himself through selfless giving.

Dr. Colclough has graciously pre-arranged a Legacy gift to honor coaches, Bob Burke, Steve Flack, Dan Surface, and Jim Garrison. Through establishing

this gift not only will he be cementing his own legacy in the lives of Chowan students, but he will be honoring four coaches who have had a tremendous impact on his life.

Dr. Colclough grew up in Durham, NC. He attended Campbell College and received his Bachelor of Science in physical education in 1971. At this point in his life, all he wanted to do was teach and coach. After graduation, he enrolled in East Carolina and received his Master of Arts in Education, physical education in 1972.

In 1973, Dr. Colclough began working at South Granville High School in Creedmoor, NC, a small AA High School. Over the next five years he taught United States History, Biology, Health and Physical Education, and served as the Physical Education Coordinator for K-4 at Creedmoor Elementary. He also coached.

In 1979, Colclough left South Granville and accepted his first position at Chowan University, Chowan College at the time, at the bequest of Jerry Smith, who was head Basketball coach, whom Dr. Colclough knew from Campbell Basketball School. He served as the Head Resident of Parker Hall (an eight-story men’s dormitory), and Assistant Football Coach of the Defensive Line. While at Chowan, Colclough worked with Coaches Burke, Flack, Surface, and Garrison. Burke and Colclough were friends from college, and Colclough knew Burke’s wife from college as well.

In 1982, Colclough left Chowan to work at Pembroke State University as a lecturer in the Physical Education Department, Assistant Basketball coach, and head tennis coach. He stayed for one year prior to heading to Middle Tennessee State University to obtain his Doctoral degree. In 1985, after two

leGaCy Gift honors Four LegenDAry CoACheS

scott Colclough (kneeling) with Dan surface Coach Jim Garrison


years, Colclough returned to Pembroke State University in his previous position while he finished his dissertation. He received his Doctoral degree from Middle Tennessee State University in 1986, and continued teaching and coaching at Pembroke State University until 1989.

In 1989, Dr. Colclough accepted a position at North Carolina A & T State University in Greensboro NC. He served as Assistant Professor and University Supervisor for the Department of Health and Physical Education and Recreation. After 3 years in this position Colclough was invited back to Chowan University, then Chowan College. Chowan College was in the process of converting to a four-year university, and Colclough eagerly became the Department Head for Health and Physical Education during this transition.

Upon his return to Chowan, Coach Burke and Garrison were both still at Chowan. He still had many connections and fond memories. Dr. Colclough recalls that although he worked at Chowan when he was much younger in an entry level position, and many of the same faculty and staff were still present,

he appreciated that he was never once regulated to the previous position, was always treated with respect, and the new experiences he brought with him were recognized and appreciated.

In 1998, Dr. Colclough came upon an opportunity he could not refuse when asked to return to Middle Tennessee State University to start their Master’s level sports management program and to eventually begin working in administration. After two years as department head, Colclough became Interim Associate Dean in the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences. He remains there today, and will retire in August.

When Dr. Colclough began his career, he didn’t know much about Chowan College. He had some friends from high school who attended, and he knew of the school, but he didn’t know where it was or much more about it. His experiences at Chowan were all new to him, and he ended up having a great time. When he began working at Chowan, he met many talented student athletes- in all sports. However, the Football team was particularly successful. He enjoyed working with Coach Garrison, who he calls “a delight.” He also found Coach Surface to be a “tremendous person,” who had a great family. He says he always felt a kinship with Coach Garrison and other coaches. He very much enjoyed his time here, and was thrilled when he was invited to return as Department Head. “The campus had always been beautiful. The Helms Center was an attraction as a coach and as a Department Head. It was a nice facility to teach and to work in. We had some good kids, great colleagues, and I really enjoyed the faculty a lot,” he shared.

When Dr. Colclough’s parents passed away, other faculty made scholarships

in their names. He found this to be such a thoughtful gift, and describes it as opening his eyes to the possibilities. Although, Dr. Colclough was at Chowan for less than 10 years out of his impressive career, he still holds Chowan close to his heart. The relationships he developed and the experiences he had, have had a lasting impact on his life. This sentiment is shared by many of those who have experienced Chowan. Chowan is a place people can grow, learn, make lifetime friends, and find themselves. Individuals often leave a piece of themselves behind when they go. Colclough has decided to leave even more of himself behind with his legacy gift, which will honor Coaches who impacted his life.

Dr. Colclough sees his legacy gift as an opportunity to give back. His parents were able to pay for his undergraduate degree, and he received assistantships to help with the cost of his other degrees. Not all students are as fortunate. He will now make a difference in the lives of future generations of students, helping to fund their education so that they too may benefit from his opportunities.

Chowan University’s sport science and physical education program has offered specializations in business aspects of sports, physical education certification, and exercise science for some time now. However, in response to the needs of the students, with one of the largest projected growth areas in providing recreational, health, and wellness services for the “Baby Boomers” and future retiring generations, the Chowan University Department of Sport Science has created the new Bachelor of Science Degree in Recreation, Wellness and Sport. Currently there are thirty-five students majoring in recreation, wellness and sport. It is projected that once the program is marketed, Chowan University the major will grow to between sixty and seventy students.

Dr. McCormick, Assistant Professor of Recreation, shares “The great thing about this degree is the diversity of career options. There are the obvious ones that come to mind like – entry-level positions in municipal parks and

recreation departments, state parks, non-profit organizations (YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs & 4-H), the for profit-sector (cruise ships, outdoor adventure excursions, sport and eco-tourism, & fitness facilities) and some that may not be as familiar.”

The degree can be applied to professions such as camp counselors, therapeutic recreationalist, campus recreation, correctional recreation, workplace recreation and health promotion, military recreation, and the arts/cultural industries (museums, aquariums, cultural centers). Dr. McCormick continues, “One of the strengths of this program is that it mirrors the diversity of the field and provides the students with a solid academic foundation, while at the same time preparing students for a variety of exciting career options.”

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of recreation workers is projected to grow 10 percent from by 2024, faster than the average for all occupations. As more emphasis

is placed on the importance of exercise, more recreation workers will be needed to work in local government parks and recreation departments, fitness centers, sports centers, and camps specializing in younger participants.

Dr. McCormick is new to Chowan University and currently teaches in the science and recreation field. However, all other Sport Science and Physical Education faculty teach courses required for the major as well. Dr. McCormick explains, “The advantage to this is that students learn from experts in all three areas of the major.” New classes include: Principles of Recreation and Leisure, Recreation Leadership, Outdoor Recreation & Camps, and theories of Play.

For more information contact Dr. Joel McCormick, Assistant Professor of Recreation, Wellness, and Sport by email [email protected] or by call (252) 398-1054.

new reCreation MaJor openS Door to opportunity

CU ToDAy | Spring 201716

ethiCs Bowl teaM aDvanCes unDeFeAteD to nCiCu SemiFinALS

Chowan University was one of twenty-two colleges that participated in the north Carolina independent Colleges and Universities ethics Bowl, debating ethics in law, on february 17th and 18th. the 2017 Chowan University ethics Bowl team made history as the first team from Chowan to advance to the semifinal rounds.

Chowan University was represented by five students: Kyle Davison- Junior (Sports Management)Melissa Hernandez- Senior (History)Courtney O’Keefe- Sophomore (Criminal Justice)Kiala Smith- Senior (Business Administration)Sean Timmons- Sophomore (Religion)

They were accompanied by their campus coordinators Dr. Keith Reich, Chair of the Religion Department and Dr. J. Brabban, E. Lee Oliver Fagan Distinguished Professor of Bible.

The students made an exhilarating and undefeated run-up to the semi-finals in the first four rounds, taking out Wake

Forest University in round one and Gardner-Webb University in round two. Pfeiffer University and Wingate University were defeated in subsequent rounds. This is the first time in the history of the competition that the Chowan University Ethics Bowl team has advanced to the semifinals. All four rounds were unanimous decisions for Chowan by the judges.

Dr. Keith Reich says, “This really is a special group of students. They came together and played with great teamwork, better than Dr. Brabban or I could have expected. I couldn’t be more proud of them.”

A few of the topics debated include, professional responsibilities, legal liability, humane treatment, individual rights versus community standards, and corporate ethics in international context. Teams participated in three rounds of debate the first day, and one round the second, followed by the semifinal and final rounds.

CU ToDAy | Spring 2017 17

reverend Dr. linwood Boone, D. Min. headlined this year’s rouson Memorial lecture, presenting the lecture titled “eli williamston- the shoemaker’s son” on february 1st. the lecture is named for reverend and Mrs. rouson who were noted hertford County religious leaders whose legacy of religious stewardship, family values and community service lives on today in the lives of their children, former students, co-workers and county residents. “the purpose of this event is to recognize

Christian values, brotherhood, stewardship, and the importance of family,” stated local historian alice eley Jones, “to recognize good Christians who do good deeds for their community.”

local Community members pastor C. David stackhouse and reverend Berna l. stephens were honored with the futrell/ruffin Community service award and the Minnie wood perkins humanitarian award.

rouSon memoriAL LeCture & AWArDS

the preSiDent’S AthLetiCS exCeLLenCe AWArDS

WArreN poWersMen’s Basketball, senior, forward

Finksburg, md• National Alpha Chi Prize Recipient• Chowan University Student Research

Conference Award of Excellence• President’s List• Honors College• Alpha Chi• Chi Alpha Sigma• Who’s Who Among Students in

American Universities and Colleges• Four Year member of the Chowan

University men’s basketball program• Part of 64 team wins as a four year

member of the team• Active in the community through

various organizations

KAylA roBiNssoftball, senior, Biology Major

mathews, VA• Honors College • Chi Alpha Sigma • President’s List, Dean’s List • Beta Beta Beta-Pi Upsilon Chapter • Rotaract Club • Leads NCAA D2 schools in

strikeouts (280)• Leads NCAA D2 schools in

strikeouts per inning (12.4)• 2016 CIAA Player of the Year • 18-7 record on the mound• Current single season and career

strikeout leader for Chowan softball • Active in the community through

various organizations

sUrAyA CHAsevolleyball, senior, sport scienct Major

Arouca, trinidad & tabago• First Team All-CIAA Volleyball • CIAA Player of the Year • Four CIAA Northern Division

Championships during her tenure • Led team and CIAA in kills with 385

kills in 2016• International Student Club• Active in Chowan Theatre Program • Honors College • Alpha Chi• Alpha Lambda Delta • Kappa Delta Pi• Phi Alpha Epsilon-Eta Tau Chapter• Who’s Who Among Students in

American Universities and Colleges

CU ToDAy | Spring 2017 19

“i love the idea there is magic in the world,” said Kevin wilson. “Magic begins to slip away as we grow older. writing is the closest thing to magic that exists in the world.” A reader can feel emotions, connect with characters, and find control when so much of the world feels out of control. Reading and writing gave Wilson the gift of life, in the most literal and literary sense.

Kevin Wilson received the 2017 Mary Frances Hobson Prize for Distinguished Achievement in Arts and Letters. In his lecture, Wilson was candid about his struggles with mental illness, his fears, and his accomplishments. He discussed his own writing, his thoughts on reading, and writing in general. More importantly, he shared how reading and writing served as coping mechanisms that provided him with the will to live and literally saved his life.

The ability to create something from nothing added purpose and value to Wilson’s life. “Something amazing happens when I tell a story, and put it on a page. Even if it’s bad, I look at it and think, ‘I made this with my own hands.’ If you make it, it has worth, no matter what anyone says. To me, my books are worth it, because they are mine.”

When asked for his favorite short story from his collection Tunneling to the Center of the Earth, Wilson responded with “Worst Case Scenario.” He said writing the story enabled him to avoid a nervous breakdown, something he was all too familiar with. Recognizing the beginning signs of a breakdown, he attempted to distract himself, completing the story in 36 hours. In that final moment, the story complete and breakdown avoided, Wilson learned the extent of the power writing held.

Even earlier in life, Wilson contemplated suicide. Reading, he says, saved him. “Reading saved my life,” he said. “Books offered a safe place to interact with something outside of myself, they were guides for how to live. ”

His passion for reading and practice of writing also gave Wilson the ability to discern between truth and falsehoods. “If you know how a story functions you can figure out when people are lying to you,” he said. “I learned how to exist in the world through reading.” By creating a strong desire to discover what would happen next in his own story and forging a new sense of connection and control, reading prevented his suicide.

The more Wilson read, the more he began to think about creating his own stories. In his late teens, he began to attempt it. “Something new happened,” he shared, “I made something. A simple story, typed out and printed, served as a reminder that I was a person who deserved to exist in the world.”

A man who thought he would never go to college, never marry, never have children, never overcome his mental issues, overcame it all through reading and writing. He now has three published books. Nicole Kidman purchased the film rights his first novel, The Family Fang, which is now a major motion picture starring Nicole Kidman, Jason Bateman and Christopher Walken.

Courage is not being unafraid, but being afraid and acting anyway. Wilson was honest about his continuing relapses and struggles. However, he stood in front of a packed room and gave inspiring presentations to students, faculty, staff, and community members, regardless of how terrified he felt. He was able to do this because reading and writing gave him power and courage he once lacked.

hobSon priZe reCipient aUthor Kevin wilson


Chowan University's annual seniorfest, a senior-adult event held each spring on the historic campus, highlights healthy lifestyles, Christian living and sheds light on issues facing senior-adults today. With special guest speakers, informative breakout sessions, live musical entertainment, classic southern buffet and door prizes, SeniorFEST offers a day full of fellowship and fun for individuals or groups.

Breakout sessions covering topics related to advance care planning, chair yoga, preventing diabetes, Christians of the Holy Land, Christian Millennials, scam and fraud prevention, and writing your life story were hosted, offering an array of options appealing to all interests. This year, SeniorFEST also brought America’s New Comedy Duo, Bean and Bailey, to perform. Visit chowan.edu/seniorfest for more information.

SeniorFeSt 2017 featUrinG Bean & Bailey

from left: sandra hobson, author Kevin wilson, Charles M.

hobson, and president white


A Winning CombinAtion—

AlUmni sPotlight: JUne & hArold BABB ’70

harold and June Babb embody something that current Chowan students dub #relationshipgoals, though students of former generations would have recognized it simply as good old-fashioned romance. they will celebrate their 45th anniversary in June, and their deep affection and respect for each still remain apparent to even a casual observer.

when they look at each other her eyes soften and his smile widens. it’s a relationship that continues to stand the test of time. and it all began at Chowan.

their life together has brought them full circle as they return to an even deeper involvement with Chowan. he serves on the Board of trustees and was the visiting executive for the school of Business in february. together, they have recently signed an agreement to establish the June and harold Babb Christian entrepreneurship

endowment, which will provide financial assistance to business students who are called to the mission field to support learning experiences beyond the confines of the traditional classroom setting.

Dr. harold Babb loves to win. As Visiting Executive for the School of Business, he presented a lecture in February titled “Learn how to Win without Fear.”

“You have to be willing to do some things others aren’t willing to do,” he says. “It’s about more than hard work. Anybody can work hard, but that doesn’t necessarily mean success.”

Harold would likely agree, his first and greatest success was winning and wooing June Slater while attending Chowan College. Harold and June first met through Dr. Helms, their advisor.

“He sat right beside me,” she says with a sidelong glance at her husband, “which was nice.”

“I picked the prettiest girl in there,” he interjects, and she beams a “thank you,” his way before continuing.

They were both dating other people at the time, so nothing happened just yet. Later on, they share, comes the second story of how they met. There was an early snow, sometime before school let out in December for the Christmas break. “Some guys were on the phone talking to some girls in their dorm

about going out,.” At the time, female students could not go out of their dorms unless someone asked them out and they were approved. “The girls wanted to get out in the snow,” Harold continues, “so they called the guys and said come ask us out.”

At first Harold was not planning to go. “I didn’t know these people,” he says. “Then I heard one of them say there was a June Slater who was going out.” He remembered her, and suddenly decided this was an opportunity he could not pass up.

“ Chowan is a great school for education and faith. In some ways it has changed dramatically, but its core remains —

same mission, same values, same basic identity. ”-Dr. harold Babb ’70

CU ToDAy | Spring 2017 23CU ToDAy | Spring 201722

“That ended up being our first unofficial date,” June finishes for him.

Over the Christmas break, both came to realize the person at home wasn’t “the one to stay with,” Harold says. When they returned they ended up dating, and the rest is history.

After completing Associates Degrees at Chowan, they headed to Richmond, where Harold enrolled at the University of Richmond while June decided to go straight to work. They married in June of 1972, right after Harold graduated, then turned to the next goal, his pursuit of doctoral studies.

“There were a lot of steps,” he says, “but I never knew the next one until it was time to take it. I wouldn’t have set out to do it on my own. The Lord just shut some doors and opened others.”

harold grew up in a small town (portsmouth) and always had a “view towards another horizon.” While, his plan to play college sports didn’t work out, he discovered a new pursuit in academics.

“It was a poignant time,” he says. “I was never a student before I arrived at Chowan.” Suddenly, he was surrounded by professors who saw more in him then he believed he was capable of.

Harold began his teaching career at the University of Richmond.

Harold describes himself as goal-oriented, and the proof is in his resume. He obtained a series of degrees, then climbed the academic ranks. At thirty-four, he was made full professor and department chair, and soon thereafter, received an endowed chair and Fulbright Scholarship. While continuing his teaching and research, he turned his sights to commercial ventures, building one successful business after another. “I wanted to practice what I preached, which the students loved,” he says.

“I’m a builder, not a maintainer,” he says. As each business nears or reaches a point of maintenance, “Or exceeds my intellectual capacity,” he says with a smile, he sells and moves on to something else - always a newer and greater challenge.

harold advocates decisions based on three incremental metrics. “First, it has to be legal,” he says. “But then, it also needs to be ethical. Finally, and most importantly, it has to be God-honoring.” Which leads directly to the establishment of the June and Harold Babb Christian Entrepreneurship Endowment at Chowan University.

“Chowan is a great school for education and faith,” Harold says. “In some ways it has changed dramatically, but its core remains — same mission, same values, same basic identity.”

“We want to give back some of what Chowan gave to us,” June adds.

The Babbs see Chowan as a secular school with a strong Christian setting. “It’s welcoming and open to all,” says Harold, “and at the same time all are shaped by the gospel while here. That’s very important to us, and it’s a hard balance to stick.”

The endowment will generate internships and opportunities for business students who see their career in business as a call to missions, as well. The hope is that these opportunities will lead to full-time work. “There are lots of companies who want to hire Christians,” Babb explains. “But how do you begin that conversation?”

harold and June have been involved in ministry and missions throughout their marriage and they see that the landscape is changing. “To be effective in the international mission field, you have to be able to stay and build relationships. To stay you have to create job situations where people bring something of value to the country,” he says.

“The people doing the work know their reason for being there is to spread the gospel. But, you have to bring the gospel along with something else,”

he says. “That is the landscape of the future.” Thus, accounting skills or a marketing background can open doors that ministry experience alone cannot.

“Business is ministry,” Harold says. “We know it is. Our work is where we form relationships. It’s where we have the conversations that lead to an opportunity to share Christ. As Christians, we’re all on a mission, all the time.”

June and Harold want to help prepare students for gospel-centered, evangelical work from a business perspective that will ultimately bring people to Christ, and they see Chowan as uniquely positioned to aid in that endeavor.

“It’s not a fit for every school,” Harold concludes, “but it’s a perfect fit for Chowan.”

“They expected things of me and wouldn’t let me off the hook,” he grins. The encouragement and expectation sparked a new passion in him.

June grew up in rural virginia on a cattle farm in King william County. Spunky and bright, she always knew education was important, but wasn’t sure what she wanted to do. “In the sixties women could either be nurses or teachers,” she recalls. “I loved math and figures.” She chose to study accounting at Chowan, where she excelled.

“As we discussed plans after graduation our advisor jokingly said the wrong person was continuing on in school,” Harold admits. “But it all worked out for the best,” June adds.

“The gamble paid off,” Harold agrees.

Indeed, June’s work provided for the couple while Harold pursued higher education, earning a Master’s Degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and a PhD from Virginia Tech. Once their children were born (they have a daughter and son), June decided to work inside the home while

the June and harold Babb Christian entrepreneurship endowment was initiated in 2016 by June and harold Babb to further express their commitment to Christian higher education and the values held by Chowan University.

the endowment provides financial assistance to worthy full-time students attending Chowan University who are pursuing a degree in the school of Business. its primary focus is to provide resources for students with an evangelical heart who are called to the mission field, to support learning experiences beyond the confines of the traditional classroom setting.

the endowment is permanently endowed with only the annual earnings available for student assistance and the principal is pooled as a part of designated endowment of Chowan University.

recipients are selected by the Dean and faculty of the school of Business in concert with Campus Ministry, financial aid, and representatives from the Babb family.

the fund is open-ended, and additional contributions may be made by June and harold Babb and/or interested individuals.

for more information about the June and harold Babb Christian entrepreneurship endowment, or establishing an endowment of your own, contact vice president for Development John M. tayloe at 252-398-1232 or [email protected].

the June & hAroLD bAbb ChriStiAn entrepreneurShip enDoWment


a self-proclaimed country boy, hugh vincent was born one mile outside of newsoms, va. His mother was a schoolteacher and his father was blessed with “a wealth of common sense.” He recalls that his mother often “talked up Chowan” when he was a boy. His great-aunt Minnie Deal was an 1892 graduate of then-Chowan Baptist Female Institute. Hugh followed the twin stars of his mother’s belief in the power of education and his father’s determined work ethic to financial success. He began raising and selling livestock as a young man. His father agreed to help him get his first hogs and cattle, as long as Hugh kept up his end of the bargain and “helped himself.” By the time he graduated from high school, Hugh had made enough money with his livestock enterprise to pay for his first two years at NC State. He later found work on a nearby cattle farm (now the site of Carter-Finley Stadium), to continue his college career.

America’s efforts in World War II required that students’ grades be submitted to the draft board each quarter. “I knew as long as my grades were fine, I wouldn’t get sent up to the draft,” he says. Upon graduation, the U.S. Army came calling. Hugh was assigned to train with a corps of military police

all of whom were college educated. He went on to advance MP training, and was later acknowledged with an award for Most Outstanding PFC on the base, “because I helped people, wherever and however I could,” he says.

The war ended and Hugh returned to a 47-year career in sales. “I heard that was where you could make the most money,” he says. “So that’s where I wanted to be.”

Meanwhile, Janet Gibbs and her family moved to Murfreesboro in 1940. She was three years old, and her father, George Gibbs, was the newly hired principal. The principal of the school was typically housed in a home owned by the district, but as fate would have it the home was under renovations when the Gibbs family arrived. Instead, they were housed in the former President’s home on the then-shuttered Chowan College campus (Chowan was closed for the war at that time). Thanks to this strange twist of fate, Janet grew up with an intimate knowledge and deep love for the college and its campus. She celebrated birthdays in Squirrel Park, and accompanied her father on his “rounds” to check on each of the empty buildings. She is acquainted with every inch of McDowell Columns Hall, from basement to cupola. For a young girl

home SWeet homevinCent athletiC Center opens

adjusting to life in a new place, Chowan made a fantastic playground.

For Janet, Chowan College has always been tied to the health and wellbeing of the town of Murfreesboro, and vice versa. “Daddy was interested in Chowan,” she says. “He was very involved in the movement to reopen it.” Nearly eighty years later, that interest still grows and thrives in Janet.

hugh met and married Janet and the two eventually settled in Murfreesboro to raise their family. They raised six children, two of whom attended Chowan, and made many dear friends in the Chowan community. “So many of our closest friends over the years have been Chowan people,” Janet recalls.

As the children of professional educators (his mother a schoolteacher, her father a principal), the value of a good education is close to both of their hearts. “My parents loved Chowan,” Hugh recalls,

and Janet echoes the sentiment. This deep love, birthed and fostered by their parents, is part of what inspired Hugh and Janet to make the gift that made the Vincent Athletic Center possible.

“The Lord has blessed us,” Hugh says. “We’ve worked hard, but without the Lord’s help, we couldn’t have done anything. And when we’re blessed, we ought to give back.” They chose to give in a way that would help grow Athletics at Chowan. “These newer sports bring in new students,” says Janet, “and help round out the student body.” Hugh adds, “Sports spark school pride and help with recruiting.”

“It was a need that we could fill,” Hugh says. “It enables growth of the university by raising the profile. Anything we can do to give people another window to view university life is good, and athletics programs are a great way to get people interested.”

near the helms Center, the 8,000 square foot vincent athletic Center inlcudes: • four team locker rooms with storage• four head coach offices and four

assistant coach offices• a conference/team meeting room • lobby and support staff office• athletic training room

the facility houses Men’s and women’s soccer, and Men’s and women’s lacrosse, all of which are part of the Conference Carolina’s athletic Conference.

the facility is named in honor of hugh and Janet vincent, in recognition of their service and support of Chowan University over many years. as long-term residents of Murfreesboro, they have been an integral part of the growth and development of the University. hugh has served multiple terms as a trustee and is a former chair of the board. he was inducted into the Jim Garrison athletic hall of fame in 2014. Janet serves as a member of the friends of the library and friends of teacher education organizations.


Ken Blanchard came to Chowan in the fall of 1960 from highland springs, virginia. He was recruited by former legendary Chowan coach, Jim Garrison, who was in his third year at the helm of the then-Braves football program. Blanchard played two seasons under Garrison where he was a standout offensive back.

Over two seasons Blanchard ran his way to a two-year total of 1,645 yards and 19 touchdowns. Blanchard tallied the “pay dirt hat trick” (three touchdowns in a game) three times. In his sophomore season, Blanchard helped to propel the football team to an 8-1 overall record and a NJCAA Rose Bowl appearance in Pasadena, California. The 1961 Chowan Braves football team was honored earlier this year as a Chowan University Athletics “Team of Distinction” for having posted one of the most successful seasons in the program’s history.

Blanchard left Chowan in 1962 to attend Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond. He graduated from VCU in 1964 and was

hired to teach and coach in Richmond. While coaching near his hometown, Blanchard decided to pursue a career in aviation. Soon Blanchard pooled all of his efforts into his flight career. He served as a flight instructor and as a private jet charter pilot before being hired by Phillip Morris, Inc. as a Captain in 1977.

Blanchard flew all over the world for Phillip Morris, Inc. and after 25 years, retired in 2002. Following his retirement from Phillip Morris, Inc., Blanchard and his wife, Sandra Burnette Blanchard, purchased a horse ranch near Richmond where he trained horses as a certified horse trainer. He helped with the campaign for the Pond Football Center, which now houses Chowan’s football staff, team meeting rooms, and weight and fitness training center.

Blanchard became a Master Mason in 2012 and a year later, a Scottish Rite Mason. Ken and Sandra celebrated 47 years of marriage in August. Together they have two sons, Jon and Ryan.

Ken Blanchard1960-1962Football

Jim garrison hall of Fame Fall 2016 inducteesMike hendley came to Chowan in the fall of 1964, from Durham, north Carolina. The Northern High School golf star was highly touted as one of the top golfers in the state. In his senior season, he helped lead his Northern High School team to a 3A Class Eastern Regional Championship. His golf talents got him to Chowan where he played on a very successful golf team with the then-Braves.

Mike played on the Chowan Golf team in 1966. During that time, Chowan played five matches, two against Louisburg College, two against Ferrum, and one against East Carolina University. Mike placed in the top 4 in each match with a stroke average less than 75.

After graduation from Chowan, Mike went on to serve as an apprentice member of the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) in 1966. He worked as an Assistant Pro at Willowhaven Country Club in Durham, North Carolina and Quail Ridge Golf Club in Sanford, North Carolina. With experience working in golf shops and teaching lessons, Mike became a golf club Class A Professional.

After marrying his wife Peggy in 1969, Mike decided to continue his education at North Carolina State University. During his

time at NC State, Mike taught golf classes through the Physical Education Department. Upon graduation in 1971, he began his 42-year insurance career with New York Life Insurance Company. Mike experienced much success in the business world and is a lifetime member of the Million Dollar Round Table.

Mike continues to support his alma mater in a variety of ways, serving on the Chowan University Board of Visitors and supporting the athletic department in many endeavors throughout the year. He has also served on the Board of Associates at Meredith College.

Mike is a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Sanford. He has served as a deacon and an elder and is still active in the church’s Sunday School.

Mike and his wife of 47 years, Peggy, have two children. Their daughter, Michelle, and her husband Andy and their children Ben and Holland, live in Belmont, North Carolina, and their son John, resides in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina.

Mike Hendley1964-1966Men’s Golf


Gattis HodgesPatron

“The Voice of the Hawks”

Jim garrison hall of Fame Fall 2016 inducteessean McClafferty came to Chowan in the fall of 1993 to play men’s soccer in its inaugural season at the University. The Orlando, Florida native was recruited by then-coach Eric Terrell, who had the task of starting the first-year program at Chowan from the ground up. Sean went on to experience four very successful soccer seasons for the then-Braves and set the tone for the program’s history at Chowan.

Sean served as a captain all four years he played on the team. He is still the only player in program history to hold a captain’s position in all four seasons of play. Sean earned three team Most Valuable Player awards during his play as well as Most Outstanding Defender. In his senior year he was awarded the team’s prestigious Senior Award for leadership exhibited on and off the field of play.

Sean helped the program to four successful seasons. Most notable was the 1996 season when the team finished 12-5-1, still a program best. While finishing his degree requirements in education, Sean served as a student assistant coach in the fall of 1997.

After graduation from Chowan, Sean was hired in 1998 to teach in nearby Northampton County Schools. He taught at Seaboard-Coates Elementary and Conway Middle School and served stints

coaching with the middle school’s football team, basketball team, and the track and field team. Currently Sean works for Roanoke Rapids City Schools and Chaloner Middle School as a 6th grade math teacher.

During his 17 years of coaching, he has won a total of 14 middle school conference titles, five basketball conference championships, and eight track and field conference championships. Sean has been voted Teacher of the Year for Northampton County Schools and Top AIG Teacher of the Year for Roanoke Rapids City Schools.

Sean enjoys mentoring his current and former players that he has coached over the years and supporting their athletic and life endeavors beyond the field of play.

Sean continues to support his alma mater and the CU men’s soccer program. He and his wife, Jennifer Hill McClafferty (c/o 1995), serve on the Chowan Alumni Council and assist with various CU Development Office projects. Sean and Jennifer reside in Roanoke Rapids, NC.

Sean McClafferty1993-1997Men’s Soccer

Gattis hodges has served the University and the Department of athletics for more than 30 years. The Potecasi, North Carolina native has a rich and deeply rooted history in media and radio all over the state and into Southeastern Virginia.

Gattis began his career behind the scenes at Chowan in 1982 as a statistician for the Chowan football program. He gained ground in the department with his passion for sports and public address announcing and was asked to serve as the PA announcer for the men’s basketball program from 1983-1985. His knowledge of sports and his “on air” charisma landed him a job at local radio station, WBCG 98.3, as a game analyst for the men’s basketball program.

Gattis whet his sports appetite at Chowan which eventually turned into a successful on-air career with a variety of media outlets.

Over his career Gattis has called 21 North Carolina High School Athletic Association and Virginia High School League state championships, three Babe Ruth World Series Tournaments, two Colonial Athletic Association baseball tournaments, several NJCAA and NCAA regular season and post-season games, two Oyster Bowls, and the 1988 East Bowl.

Gattis has had the opportunity to interview such athletic greats as Bob Burke, Nate McMillan, Chuck Amato, Lefty Drissell, Jim Garrison, Terry Holland, Herb Sendek, Gary Hahn, Fred Vinson, Bobby Cremins, and Dave Odom to mention a few.

Gattis is in his 12th year hosting a local favorite, “Talkin’ Sports with Gattis Hodges”, hosted on First Media Radio outlets all over Northeast North Carolina and Southeastern Virginia. Gattis can also be heard as the play-by-play webcast analyst for Chowan football and Chowan men’s and women’s basketball.

Along with his storied career in broadcasting, Gattis also works locally for Georgia-Pacific (28 years) as a Chemical Process Safety Manager. He serves on the Chowan University “Jim Garrison” Hall of Fame committee and was the guest reader at a Chowan Christmas in 2014. He is a longtime member of Potecasi Baptist Church, where he is currently serving on the Deacon Board.

He has been married to Patricia Bryant Hodges for 41 years. Together they have two daughters, twins Brandy Hodges Galloway and Sandy Hodges Storey, and five grandchildren.

James thompson came to Chowan in the fall of 1989 to play for legendary Chowan coach, Bob Burke. The Culpeper, Virginia native was a standout athlete at Culpeper High School and was scouted out of high school by the Kansas City Royals for his baseball prowess. Burke saw his potential in basketball, where he helped the then-Braves to two very successful seasons.

James had a “lights out” freshman year in 1989-1990. He tallied five games that season where he made five or more three-point field goals. He set a record in his freshman year with seven three-point field goals in a win over Brevard College. The sharp-shooter shot 80% from the foul line that same season, 45% from beyond the three-point arc, and nearly 50% from the floor. The team tallied 20 wins that season but fell in the Region X finals.

James followed up his knock out freshman season with an accolade filled sophomore season performance. He averaged a team-high 22 points per game in the 1990-1991 season. He broke his old freshman year record of seven three-point field goals in a game when he hit for eight three point-field goals in a win over Alleghany-Pitt Community College. He hit for eight-three pointers in three other games in that same season and seven three pointers in three different games.

James left Chowan in 1991 as the program’s career leader in three-point field goals made (125), three-point field goals in a game (8, multiple games), and three-point field goal percentage (45%). He was signed to play at George Mason University where he continued his offensive proficiency in his junior year. He tallied nine double figure scoring games and five games with four or more three-point field goals. He suffered an eye injury in his senior season that left him sidelined for most of the year.

“James was the purest shooter that I ever coached,” stated Burke. “He is a credit to his family, his community, and to Culpeper High School, where he has coached nine very successful seasons.”

James earned his B.S. in Physical Education from George Mason and returned to his hometown where he still teaches and coaches. He is embarking on his 10th year as Head Coach of the boys basketball team at Culpeper High School. Last season the team claimed their fourth straight regular season conference and conference tournament titles. He has tallied a 154-63 coaching record over those nine seasons. He also serves as the strength and conditioning coach for Culpeper High School. James and his wife, Charnissa, are the proud parents of one son.


Kayla Meacom came to Chowan in the fall of 2001 where she played four successful seasons of softball under then-coach Meredith long. The right handed hurler is the second all-time leading pitcher in program history in wins, earned run average, and strikeouts. During her four-year tenure, she helped the softball program to four winning seasons, a USA South Conference title, a NCCAA South Region Championship, and a NCCAA National Tournament appearance.

The Norfolk, Virginia native was a versatile player, who pitched, played the infield, and also carried a heavy bat. As the team’s most dominant pitcher over her four seasons, Kayla amassed 51 career wins in the Chowan Blue and White. She finished up her playing career with a .305 career batting average. In 2003 she helped pitch the way to a USA South Conference Regular Season Title. She tallied three double-digit winning seasons on the mound. Most notable was a 15-11 season she posted in 2005. Kayla’s presence on the mound helped the team to a 2005 NCCAA South Region Championship. The then-Braves dropped their first round game to Piedmont College 7-5 but battled back from the loser’s bracket to take the title, winning three games in a row on the same day. Kayla pitched near perfection in the title game for a 2-1 win over Palm Beach Atlantic University.

After helping the then-Braves to a NCCAA South Region Title in 2005, Kayla led the team to an appearance at the NCCAA National Tournament in Marion, Indiana. The team finished 1-2 in the tournament overall and 6th out of 12 teams nationally.

“Kayla was one of the toughest players I ever coached. If the game was on the line, not only did she want to be the one on the mound, her teammates and the coaches wanted the ball in her hand too,” stated Long. “She commanded the mound whenever she was on it.”

Kayla was named NCCAA All-South Region twice in her career as well as USA South All-Conference.

Kayla returned to work as an assistant softball coach in 2009. She staffed and developed the Hawks pitchers throughout the season. That year the program won the 2009 NCCAA South Region Tournament and earned a berth to the NCCAA National Tournament in Palm Beach, Florida.

Kayla graduated in 2006 with a B.S. in Sport Science. Currently Kayla serves as a Corporal in the City of Norfolk Sheriff’s Office. She resides in Norfolk, Virginia.

Jim garrison hall of Fame Fall 2016 inductees

Kayla Meacom2002-2006

Softball

James Thompson1989-1991Men’s Basketball

e


the addition of Men’s lacrosse to the athletics program attracts new student athletes from all over the nation. lacrosse is the fastest growing sport in the United states, making the spring of 2017 a perfect inaugural season, on the heels of Chowan’s acceptance into Conference Carolinas and the opening of the vincent athletic Center.

Building a powerful team takes experience, which is why Chowan chose Jim Griffin as Head Coach. This is his second time to launch a Division II Men’s Lacrosse team. According to Griffin, the most important things to establish are team standards and leaders. “It is important to practice with a purpose and have goals in both academics and lacrosse,” Griffin reminds his players. “Success is not overnight, we count our improvements as victories.”

Lacrosse is no small commitment. It is a full contact sport that often plays more than one game per week. The average roster is around 45 players and Chowan is off to a good start with 22 players and counting. Griffin recruits good people, good students, and good athletes, in that order. This is what he refers to as the standard, or foundation, of a great team.

“We enjoy the addition of any sport to our campus and Lacrosse is such an exciting sport to watch,” says Meredith long, Deputy Athletics Director.

“Collectively, the addition of this team enhances the brand of the University,” adds Griffin. The program brings in a fresh crop of students, increases overall enrollment, and aids Chowan in maintaining a relationship with Conference Carolinas.

“When you’re traveling South down I-95, Chowan is the first Division Two school with a Men’s Lacrosse program,” says Ozzie McFarland, Vice President and Director of Athletics. “This program is important to the University because students are our main commodity.”

“I had not heard of Chowan University before I was recruited to play here by Coach Griffin,” comments Anthony Alfonso, Junior Midfield Men’s Lacrosse Player from Port Charlotte, FL. “I am excited about laying the foundation for Men's Lacrosse here and look forward to helping this program prosper.”

Griffin says Chowan has two rare advantages The new Vincent Athletic Center and the University’s culture. He says, “It is a safe, nurturing, supportive, and morally strong environment!”

the hawks entered the Ciaa Championship as the no. 1 seed from the northern Divisiion with a 21-9 overall record, 14-2 mark in Ciaa play, and unblemished 10-0 record in the Ciaa northern Division. Chowan captured their third consecutive divisional crown this season (seventh in program history).

When the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) in conjunction with the Volleyball Coaches Association and Sports Information Directors Association announced the 2016 All-CIAA First, Second, and All-Rookie Teams, Chowan University's Suraya Chase headlined the list of honorees as the CIAA Player of the Year. Morgan Spencer, Caitlin Turner, and Bailey Zavala joined Chase on the All-CIAA First Team while Makayla Castro and Sydney Miller earned All-CIAA Second Team honors.

CIAA Player of the Year, Suraya Chase, is a native of Arouca, Trinidad and Tobago and ranked first in the CIAA with 385 kills and 1,090 attacks on the season. She tallied 451 points for the Chowan Blue and White during her senior campaign while notching 281 digs, 40 blocks (nine solo, 31 assisted), and 42 service aces. Chase was named to the CIAA All-Rookie team and All-CIAA Team twice during her career. She is the

third player in program history to earn CIAA Player of the Year honors (2010: Karina Monroe, 2011: Victoria Lewis).

Aurora, Illinois native, Spencer, recorded 293 kills on the season with 91 digs and 35 blocks (five solo, 35 assisted) as a right-side hitter for the Hawks. Turner, hailing from Como, North Carolina, handed out 206 assists for the Hawks while notching 134 kills, 51 digs, and 30 blocks (three solo, 27 assisted).

Zavala rounded out the list of All-CIAA First Team honorees. The Las Vegas, Nevada native led the CIAA with 632 digs.

Castro earned a spot on the All-CIAA Second Team after recording 238 digs during the regular season with 32 kills, 18 assists, and 35 service aces. Miller rounded out the list of honorees for the Hawks. She tallied 139 kills for the Chowan Blue and White with 45 blocks (four solo, 41 assisted) and 39 digs.

men’S LACroSSeKiCKs off inaUGUral season

george Koonce Appreciation Day

The Chowan University athletic department celebrated George Koonce Day on October 15th, 2016. Koonce was recognized at halftime of the football game against Virginia Union University.

Koonce, the “Doctor of Defense” attended then-Chowan College from 1987-1989. One of the most notable football players to ever attend Chowan, Koonce had a break-out season for the then-Braves in 1988. He collected a staggering 131 tackles at linebacker, guiding Chowan to a 7-4 record. The team earned a spot in the prestigious East Bowl, beating Dean Junior College 50-7. Koonce concluded his career at Chowan with Coastal Conference Defensive Player of the Year and All-American honors.

Upon graduation in 1989, Koonce received a football scholarship at East Carolina University. He then spent one year with the Ohio Glory as part of the World League of American Football, now known as the National Football League Europe. The Green Bay Packers drafted Koonce in 1992, leading to a professional career as aneight-year starter. He made 102

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VoLLeybALLnets thirD ConseCUtive title

Koonce, cont. career starts for the organization and was a starting member of the Super Bowl XXXI Championship team. Koonce concluded his career with the Seattle Seahawks.

After a ten-year professional playing career, including competing with the Green Bay Packers for eight seasons, one of the most storied fraternities in the NFL, Koonce continued to etch his name in the history books. Over 7,000 men have donned the Packers uniform, yet Koonce is one of only two men to ever wear the uniform and go on to earn a doctoral degree.

Koonce then committed to giving back to the sport that shaped him, making a name for himself off of the playing field with a diverse career in both athletic and college administration, as well as a broad educational experience.

He served as Senior Associate Athletic Director and Director of Development at Marquette University, Athletic Director at Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Director of Player Development for the Packers, and Special Assistant to the Athletic Director at East Carolina University. Most recently, Koonce serves as Vice President of Advancement at Marian University of Fond du Lac.

Koonce earned an Associate of Arts degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences at Chowan before earning a Bachelor of Arts from New York University at Regents. He earned a Master of Arts degree from East Carolina University and a Doctor of Philosophy from Marquette University.

athleticsnews For Brave hawk Fans

Suraya Chase

the Chowan University football team closed out the 2016 season on a high note with a 73-0 win over lincoln University, ending the year with a 6-4 overall record and 4-3 mark in Ciaa play. the hawks recorded a winning season for the second consecutive year; a first in Chowan’s nCaa Division ii era.

The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) along with the Football Coaches Association and Sports Information Directors Association released the 2016 All-CIAA First, Second, and Honorable Mention Football Teams with Chowan University's Tyler Bembry, Donald Boone, Tyrone Carter, Randall Dixon, Demetrius Newberry, Vicente` Stafford, and Nate Wyche named to the All-CIAA Second Team. Ryan Nolan and Aaron Matthews grabbed Honorable Mention recognition.

Disputana, VA native, Bembry competed in 10 games for the Hawks, notching 27 tackles (14 solo, 13 assisted) with 6.5 tackles for loss (24 yards), four sacks (10 yards) and one forced fumble. Boone garnered CIAA Player of the Week honors in October. His efforts on the offensive line led to Chowan racking up 631 offensive yards in a 54-21 win over Virginia Union University.

Carter, a native of Raville, LA led the CIAA with 1,099 receiving yards. He recorded 50 receptions with nine touchdowns. Dixon completed 164 passes for a staggering 2,449 yards with 19 touchdowns. He also claimed the Chowan single-game passing record on October 15th when he completed 22-28 pass attempts for 412 yards against Virginia Union University.

Newberry, a senior from Brunswick, GA led Chowan's defensive efforts this season. He tallied 81 tackles with 54 solo stops, 21.5 tackles for loss (93 yards), six sacks (45 yards), two fumble recoveries and one forced fumble. Stafford followed with 53 tackles (40 solo, 13 assisted). The San Diego, CA native notched one interception along with two fumble recoveries and one forced fumble.

Wyche rounded out the list of All-CIAA Second team honors. Over eight games, he notched 33 tackles with 24 solo stops. He recorded eight tackles for loss (34 yards) with seven sacks (29 yards), two fumble recoveries and two forced fumbles.

Wide receiver Nolan, a Brick, NJ native, and defensive back Matthews, who hails from Hampton, VA, both earned spots on the CIAA Honorable Mention Team.

FootbALLhawKs soar, reCorDs fall

1987-1988 team of

Distinction honored

The Chowan University athletic department honored the 1987-1988 Chowan University men’s basketball team as a “Team of Distinction” on Saturday, January 14th, 2017.

That year the team finished up as one of the most successful teams in Chowan’s junior college history under one of the best coaches in NJCAA history, Bob Burke.

at 28-5 overall and with several regional and national accolades, both individual and team. The squad wrapped up the year with a #10 NJCAA national ranking and a NJCAA National Tournament appearance.

Chowan suffered just two regular season losses that year and at various points of the ranking season were ranked as high as #4 in the NJCAA national rankings.

Burke picked up his 200th career win as a head coach that season over then-rival, Louisburg College. Gary Mattison set scoring record with 46 points in a 104-86 win over Craven College. Mattison was inducted into the Chowan University “Jim Garrison” Hall of Fame in 2014.

athleticsnews For Brave hawk Fans


Swimming’s Winning Season

The Chowan University women’s swimming team picked up seven meet wins in their inaugural season under Head Coach Matt Hood. The team finished their first-ever conference swim meet, the 19th Annual Blue Grass Mountain Conference Tournament in Charlotte, in 11th place out of 13 competing teams with a four day total of 313 points.

It was the 400 yard freestyle team who showed up big at the tournament for Chowan, garnering a 5th place finished after shaving nearly four seconds off their seed time. The team was anchored by Chmielewska, McCray, Kjahna O, and SheAyre Bowles. They combined efforts for a finishing time of 3:36.33.

Julia Chmielewska finished in 18th place for the 200 yard backstroke. Kenya McCray finished up in 14th place in the 100 yard freestyle swim. Keitra Lloyd and Megan Reid competed in the 200 yard butterfly finals, in 18th and 19th place, respectively.

The 2016-17 squad is led by SheAyre Bowles, Julia Chmielewska, Ashley Hernandez, Sarah Hull, Keitra Lloyd, Kenya McCray, Kjahna O, and Megan Reid.

Women’S & men’S bASKetbALLCeleBrate winninG seasons

Women’s Basketball

the Chowan University women’s basketball team entered the Central intercollegiate athletic association (Ciaa) tournament in a three-way tie for northern Division title, garnering the #1 seed in the division after beating virginia Union University in their final regular season game. they completed the season with a 17-8 overall record.

Jordan Payne was named to the All-CIAA Team and Second-Team Division II Conference Commissioners Association (CCA) All-Atlantic Region Team. Payne led the Hawks in scoring and rebounding the entire season. She dropped 14.0 points a game and hauled in 11.2 boards a game. Payne was ranked fifth in the CIAA in scoring and led the league in rebounds per game. She finished the year ranked 11th in the nation in rebounds per game (11.2).

Mariah Coker was named CIAA Rookie of the Year. Coker led the Hawks from the court captain position most of the season. She posted 7.4 points an outing in her first season.

This is the second consecutive year that Chowan has garnered the CIAA Women’s Basketball Rookie of the Year honor (Jada Lee, 2015-16).

Men’s Basketball

the Chowan University men’s basketball team will opened play at the 2017 Ciaa Basketball tournament with a first round bye after picking up the #3 seed out of the Ciaa north, ending the season with an 18-9 overall record.

Jeremy Smith and Marco Haskins garnered All-CIAA Honors. Smith averaged 13.8 points a game and 7.4 rebounds an outing coming off the bench most of the season. Haskins posted 13.4 points a game this season with three games at 20 or more points and eight games at 15 or more points.

Marco Haskins Jordan Payne Jeremy Smith

Mariah Coker


At chowan.edu/classacts you can post an update, share a photo, and be part of the news at Chowan University - especially if it’s youre reunion year. For Brave Hawks who’ve joined the Chowanian society - that’s 50+ years since gradation - every year is a reunion year!

1989Lenn Long ’89 is celebrating his 10th year as the official event photographer of the Miss North Carolina Pageant for the Miss America Organization. During the week, Lenn's studio Lenn Long Photography specializes in portrait and corporate event photography, but his weekends are busy traveling all across the state photographing fashion and pageant events for his website PageantPics.com.

1995J. Chad and Jessica Drake were included in the Chowan University Gallery of Distinguished Alumni. Currently residing in Jacksonville, NC, the Drakes met at Chowan in 1991 in a US History Class. Jessica graduated from Chowan in 1995 and Chad completed an AA degree

from Chowan and later his BS degree in Biology from Methodist University in Fayetteville. Jessica has a master’s in political science from Virginia Tech. They were married in December 1994 after Chad was commissioned a second lieutenant in the US Marine Corps. Currently Chad is a lieutenant colonel assigned as an infantry battalion commander. He has served in Washington, DC, Hawaii, Virginia, and North Carolina, with combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. Chad has earned his master’s in military studies from Marine Corps University. Jessica has worked in journalism for 16 years, including time in the Pentagon Press Corps. She is now a stay at home mother to their five children. In 2016 the Drakes established the Ann Drake Teaching Scholarship at Chowan in memory of Chad’s mother.

1998 Sean McClafferty ’98, Head Basketball Coach at Chaloner Middle School had a 16-1 season. The Chaloner Yellow Jackets not only tied for the Roanoke Valley Middle School Athletic Association Conference Champions, they defeated Weldon Middle School for the Tournament Championship title as well. Chaloner's 4th Championship since Coach Mac began in 2009.

2005 Jonathan Smith ’05 is the Wellness Coordinator at Rappahannock Westminster-Canterbury in Irvington, VA.

2006 Ashley Dixon ’06 and ’10 received Teacher of the Week at Aulander Elementary School.

2007 Mozell ‘Mo’ Person ’07 is an Full-time Psychology Professor and Coordinator of First College Success at Tidewater Community College. He is scheduled to complete his PhD. this year.

Drew and Christina Praster (’07, ’08) welcomed their first child, Duncan Praster, In October of 2016. Duncan continues to grow and explore new things every day. He loves to chase the dog and cat around all day! Christina is a stay at

home mom and Drew leads the sales team for the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets.

2010 Michael Edwards ’10 receives Doctor of Physical Therapy Clinical Excellence Award from The Campbell University College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences

herman Clark, Cu’s First All-American Athlete, passes Away

The Chowan University community mourned the loss of Mr. Herman Alfred Clark who passed away in Jackson, North Carolina on Saturday, March 11, 2017. Clark was Chowan’s first-ever All-American athlete. He earned the honor in 1955 as a member of the Chowan University football team under the direction of Coach Herb Appenzeller.

Clark was inducted into Chowan’s “Jim Garrison” Sports Hall of Fame in November of 1986 after a stellar junior college career. Clark transferred to Chowan from the University of Richmond where he played one year on the freshman squad. The University of Richmond’s loss was Chowan’s gain as Clark helped to lead the 1955 football team to one of the best seasons in program history at the quarterback position.

Clark helped then-Braves post an 8-1 overall record in 1955 with wins over Baltimore College (21-0), Elon Jayvees (25-14), Fork Union (19-13), Wesley (25-6), Richmond B’s (40-26), Newport News Apprentice (26-7), Hargraves Military Academy (32-7), and Ferrum (38-6). Their lone loss was an 18-7 setback against Bullis. The 1955 team captured Basket Bowl

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herman Clark, continued...

and Ruritan Bowl Championship crowns that same season. Clark was named to the All-State Junior College Team in addition to being named an Junior College All-American.

In 2002, Clark was inducted into the Fork Union Military Academy Hall of Fame. At FUMA, Clark was

standout baseball, basketball, and football athlete. His passing skills led Fork Union to the state military schools football championship in 1950. The team captain of 1950 was named All-State both years at FUMA. As the leader of the Blue Devils, Clark lost just one game in two seasons, while throwing 20 touchdown passes. He went on to win the Orchid Bowl after his senior season.

Clark was an all-around athlete, lettering in football, baseball, and basketball. It was football that he made a name for himself.

Clark returned to Chowan as an assistant coach for one year, then went on his own head coaching career. During his 10-year stint as head coach at Murfreesboro (NC) High School, he never endured a losing campaign. He was named the state’s Coach of the Year in 1972, and coached the “East” Squad in the North Carolina East-West Shrine Game. Clark also coached at Scotland Neck (NC) High School for five seasons.

A celebration of life memorial service was held on Monday, March 13, 2017, at 1:30 pm at the Murfreesboro Baptist Church, Murfreesboro, NC, with Dr. M Christopher White, officiating.

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sean McClafferty and the Chaloner Middle school Basketball team


2011 Reverend Josiah Antill ’11 was included in the Chowan University Gallery of Distinguished Alumni for distinction as minister of music in Scotland Neck, NC. He

was Music Industry major and recently completed coursework at Campbell University Divinity School for Counseling and Christian Education Buies Creek. Josiah served as Youth Director at Winton Baptist Church from March 2010 to May 2013 and as a Chowan University Admissions Counselor from June 2011 to December 201. As a student, he was a Ministry Assistant on the 2012 Cuba Mission Trip. He has served as Youth Director and Minister of Music at Scotland Neck Baptist Church since 2013. He and wife Haley Linae ‘14 welcomed their 3rd child, Luke Owen Antill, on February 26, 2017. Their other children are Hanlee Grace (2 1/2 yrs) and Jeydan Gabriel (3 1/2 yrs).

2012 Alison Kolezynski ’12 was included in the Chowan University Gallery of Distinguished Alumni for distinction in college athletics. Currently residing in Bridgeport, West Virginia, she holds a degree in Business Administration from Chowan University and earned her MBA from Cleveland State

University in 2013. She was a four-year starter and captain of the Chowan Softball team, three-time All CIAA Selection, three-time CIAA Commissioner’s All-Academic Team honoree, two-time NCCSIA All-State selection, and capital One Academic All-American and Daktronics All-Region team member. She led the Softball team to three consecutive CIAA Northern Division titles and the program’s first-ever CIAA championship in 2010. As a student served a three-year term on the NCAA Division II Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). She was the 2012 CIAA Woman of the Year and recipient of the 2013 Commissioner’s Service Award. In 2013 she assumed responsibilities as Assistant Athletic Director/Director of Athletic Community at Chowan, where she was recognized as 2014 and 2016 CIAA Sports Information Director of the Year. Allie is currently the Assistant

Commissioner for Communications and Operations at the Mountain East Conference, Bridgeport, WV.

2013 Daniel Mullens ’13 was named one of the "20 Most Influential People ages 40 and Under In the Roanoke-Chowan Area" by Crossroads 2017 Publication

2014 Jordan Gainous ’14 was included in the Chowan University Gallery of Distinguished Alumni for distinction in printing technology. Currently residing in Raleigh-Durham, NC, he graduated from Chowan University as a Graphic Communications major. In 2016, he earned his Master of Arts in

Business Management and Leadership at Liberty University. He served a Pressman Operator Internship at PBM Graphics, Inc., in Raleigh, NC from June 2013 – February 2014 and in their Associates Development Program from February 2014 – June 2015. Continuing to rise in the ranks, he was made Project Manager atPBM Graphics in 2014 and Prepress Operator in 2015. Jordan is currently Pressman Operator at Classic Printing in Morrisville, NC.

Alicia Satchell ’14 was included in the Chowan University Gallery of Distinguished Alumni for distinction in elementary education. The Richmond, Virginia native majored in Elementary Education at Chowan and currently resides in Murfreesboro, NC. As a student she was inducted into the

honor societies Kappa Delta Pi and Alpha Chi with a 3.9 GPA, and held leadership roles at Chowan in Campus Ministries and SNCAE. She currently teaches second grade at Bearfield Primary School in Ahoskie, NC, where she has served for the past three years while continuing her education at Chowan, pursuing a Master’s Degree in Education with an expected graduation date of May, 2017. She remains a very proud CU Hawks Fan!

Austin Tallant ’14 was included in the Chowan University Gallery of Distinguished Alumni for distinction in athletics and ministry. The Phoenix, Arizona native was a four-year starter on the Chowan football team and appeared in 40

r. Clayton Lewis, Former Dean of Students, passes

R. Clayton Lewis died Wednesday afternoon, March 1, 2017, under hospice care at home with his family. Clayton served Chowan as Dean of Students and later as a member of the Development Staff from 1968 until retirement in 1995. In retirement, Clayton served faithfully as a member of the Board of Trustees as well as a member of the Board of Visitors.

Robert Clayton Lewis was born in Green Sea, Horry County, SC on December 15, 1930. He was the oldest of two children born to Herbert and Cornie Harrelson Lewis. Clayton enrolled in Wake Forest College (now University), where he developed an interest in teaching, earning his certification to teach social studies. He went on to earn a Master of Arts degree in school administration and history at East Carolina University. Clayton married Mary Alice Banks in June 1954. In June of 1955, Hugh Banks Lewis was born, just as Clayton was gaining his honorable discharge from the Army.

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r. Clayton Lewis, continued...

Counting his two years in the US Army, Clayton had a forty-three-year career in education – fourteen in public schools and twenty-seven at Chowan. He believed there are similarities between the work of educators and ministers, and felt responsible for helping students learn “to do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with our God.” (Micah 6:8) This included the Golden Rule, self-management and citizenship.

As Dean of Students, Clayton fell in love with Chowan. After 25 years of service, he was inducted into the Order of Lux et Veritas, and in 2011, received the Baptist Heritage Award.

Clayton loved Chowan deeply and generously supported the scholarship endowment and designated endowment programs along with capital campaigns. Please keep his wife, Mary Alice, and son, Hugh, and the rest of their family in your thoughts and prayers during this time.

Friends joined the family at Myers Park Baptist Church at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 25th for the memorial service.

Alumni CouncilThe Chowan University Alumni Council hosted its first Thankathon on Monday, February 13, 2017. Participating in the event were LaDonna Cooper, Mitch Kelly, Jenifer McClafferty, Jen’ay Nelson, and Kay Thomas. The group made call to Chowan University donors, simply to thank them for their faithful support. At least one recipient of a phone call was supsicious, expecting reverse psychology or some other kind of trick. Yet it was nothing but a straightforward show of appreciation and goodwill.

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straight games. He currently serves as the General Manager of the Boosterthon Run Run Team in Phoenix, AZ and at Christ’s Church of the Valley in Scottsdale, AZ as a high school mentor coach. Austin enjoys playing basketball, golf and cheering for the Arizona Cardinals. He married Caelen Tallant in September 2015.

2016 Bethaney Tinto ’16 accepted a position at ProAmpac as the Marketing Coordinator.

In MemoriamMildred Morgan ’55 passed away Februrary 10, 2017. She and her husband were both graduates and very proud of their Chowan connection.

Richard Britt ’71 passed away December 9, 2016. He and his wife are both Chowan graduates who were married on campus in front of McDowell Columns Hall. Richard loved Chowan University and served on the Board of Visitors.

Sheryl Brown Whitley ’94 passed away on February 13, 2017 at the young age of 47. She was in the first graduating class of Chowan University following its return to four-year status. Sheryl worked in the mental health field and the family business, Brown’s Mobile Home.

Shirley Ann Graham Brown passed away on February 9, 2017. She was the beloved wife of former chair of the Board of Trustees and Trustee Emeritis Bynum Brown. A native of Bertie County, she was a retired educator and Real Estate Broker/Appraiser. She had just celebrated here 85th birthday the previous Saturday with Bynum and daughter Grace.

Carlyle Wimbish, Jr. Football Scholarship

established

The Carlyle Wimbish, Jr. Football Scholarship Endowment Fund was established at Chowan University on March 17, 2017.

The endowment was initiated in 2016 by Carlyle R. Wimbish Jr. ’58 in honor of his alma mater Chowan University and in grateful appreciation for the education and nurturing that he received while attending Chowan. Wimbish is committed to a Christian Higher Education and the values held by Chowan University.

The Carlyle R. Wimbish, Jr. Football Scholarship Endowment Fund will provide financial assistance to a worthy student athlete playing on the Men’s Football Team. It will be permanently endowed with only the annual interest available for scholarship awards.

Scholarship recipients of the Carlyle Wimbish, Jr. Football Scholarship will be selected by the Admissions and Financial Aid Committee of Chowan University in conjunction with the Head Football Coach. Although formalized in 2016, the fund is open ended, and additional contributions can be made by Carlyle Wimbish, Jr. and/or other interested individuals.

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Choose Chowan.Choose to make a difference. Choose to invest. Choose possibility.

Choose the Annual Fund.Make your gift today! online at chowan.edu/wegive or contact the Development office at 252-398-1233.

I chose Chowan University for the athletics. i didn’t expect that i would find family at Chowan! It was a complete God thing. Looking back I wouldn’t change a thing.-Alyssa “Lulu” Born is a Sophomore from Dyer, IN

Office of DevelopmentOne University Place • Murfreesboro, NC 27855

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Norfolk, vapermit No. 33

ChoWAn uniVerSity is on the move and on a mission

In the days following commencement two groups will embark from Chowan for overseas destinations. On Sunday, May 7th, Campus Ministry will depart for a mission trip to Johannesburg, south Africa, where they will serve with Door of Hope Ministry. On Monday, May 8th the Harris scholars are headed for a tour of Germany, switzerland, and France to mark the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther’s 95 Theses which effectively kicked off the Protestant Reformation. Please pray for our students, faculty, and staff as they go and as they return. Watch for the summer 2017 edition of the magazine for a full report of both trips.

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