milligan college athletic viewbook

ATHLETIC VIEWBOOK2009-2010

Raise YOOUURR World

.2 | www.milliganbuffs.com

Are you ready to take it to the next level? Milligan has a long history of successful

intercollegiate athletics. Championship banners adorn the walls of Steve Lacy

Fieldhouse. In the past 10 years alone, Milligan teams and student-athletes have won

more than 50 conference titles and made 57 national tournament appearances. The

college maintains high standards for its student-athletes and has produced numerous All-

Americans, All-Conference, and Academic All-American players. We also consistently win

the Duard Walker All-Sports Trophy for the most successful athletic program in the

conference. Milligan competes in the Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) and the

National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).

CHAMPIONS OF CHARACTERMilligan received the NAIA Institutional Champion of Character Award from

the Appalachian Athletic Conference in 2006. Student-athletes are asked to

accept the five core character values of the NAIA: respect, responsibility,

integrity, servant leadership, and sportsmanship. Throughout the year,

student-athletes are involved with local service projects and volunteer

their time at local schools and hospitals.

INTRAMURALSEveryone likes to get involved in a spirit of healthy recreational competition

and Milligan has an active intramural program. Activities and tournaments

include dodge ball, flag football, basketball, beach volleyball, ping pong,

softball, and ultimate frisbee.

OUTPACE YOUR OPPONENTSMilligan competes in the Appalachian Athletic

Conference (AAC) and National Association of

Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). The AAC consists of

nine colleges and universities in Tennessee, Virginia,

Georgia, Kentucky, and North Carolina. AAC member

institutions include: Bluefield College, Bryan College,

Milligan College, Montreat College, Reinhardt College,

Tennessee Wesleyan College, Union College (KY), The University

of Virginia’s College at Wise, and Virginia Intermont College.

GET IN THE GAME

SPORTSm&w cross countrym&w track & field . . . . . . .4‑5

m soccer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6‑7

w soccer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8‑9

w volleyball . . . . . . . . . .10‑11

m basketball . . . . . . . . .12‑13

w basketball . . . . . . . . .14‑15

m&w golf . . . . . . . . . . . .16‑17

baseball . . . . . . . . . . . . .18‑19

softball . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20‑21

m&w tennis . . . . . . . . . .22‑23

m&w swimming . . . . . . . . .24

m&w cheerleading . . . . . .25

m&w mountain biking . . .26

*Photos contributed by Danny Davis, RyanHarris, Michael Kaal, and Mark Peacock

”I transferred to Milligan my

sophomore year and got to

pitch against the U.S. olympic

team. I held them scoreless for

one inning. You dream of that

moment as an athlete of

playing up to your full

potential, a moment to tell

your kids and grandkids about.

That was mine.”

ryannELIZABETHTON, TN

LEGAL STUDIES[wants to be an attorney

like her grandfather]

that was my moment

4 | www.milliganbuffs.com

CROSS COUNTRY &TRACK AND FIELD

NATIONAL RANKINGSIn its nine year history, the Milligan College cross country and track

programs have been a dominate force on both the regional and

national scene. The 2009 season was a successful one for the Buffs

and Lady Buffs, as the woman captured their seventh straight AAC

title and the men were the AAC runners-up. At the national

championships, the Lady Buffs finished 11th overall, and had two

individual All-American runners in Austin Ellis and Gillian Giffen.

A year ago, the Buffs and Lady Buffs swept the AAC and sent both

teams to the NAIA Cross Country National Championship. The Lady

Buffs finished fourth, after a school record third place finish in 2007.

The Men finished 15th, marking their first appearance since 2003.

Additionally, the Milligan Track and field programs have played host

to the NAIA Indoor Track and Field National Championship the last

10 years. The Buffs and Lady Buffs maintain a very attractive and

competitive schedule that includes competitions at many of the

region’s top Division I campuses.

In only nine seasons, the Buffs and Lady Buffs cross country and

track and field teams have earned well over 100 national

championship qualifiers. Since 1999, cross country and track and

field have finished in the nation’s top 25 ten times, along with over

30 All-American honors. In 2003, freshman Marta Zimon (Lodz,

Poland) earned Milligan’s first national title in any sport by winning

the 5,000 meter NAIA indoor title. In 2001-2002, senior Philip Rotich

from Kenya became the first-ever three-time All-American in Milligan

history when he finished 10th at the cross country championships,

second in the mile at the indoor national championships, and

second in the 800 meters at the outdoor national championships.

Distance standout Megan Lease (North Carolina) went on to earn

five All-American honors during her athletic career at Milligan.

COACHING STAFFCoach Chris Layne has coached more than 70 different athletes to national championship qualifiers at Milligan

College and East Tennessee State University. In addition to his collegiate coaching accomplishments, Layne coached

former Texas A&M All-American Melissa Cook, now running for New Balance, to a berth in both the 5,000 meters and

10,000 meters at the 2008 U.S. Olympic Trials. In 2004, Layne coached his wife, Catherine, who currently runs for

Nike, to a 5,000 meter victory at the British Olympic Trials. She went on to run the Olympic Games B standard with a

personal best time of 15:19 at the Huesden Grand Prix meet in Belgium that same year. While a collegian, Layne was

named to the All-Southern Conference and All-Ohio Valley Conference teams. In 1992, the Middle Tennessee State

University Blue Raiders finished third and fifth, respectively, at the prestigious Penn Relays, and his 4 x 200 meter

relay went on to earn a world ranking by Track and Field News. Post collegiately, Layne competed in the 1996 USA

Indoor Track and Field Championships in the 4 x 400 meter relay.

uAssisting Layne is Assistant Coach Jim Presnell, a former member of the 1974 University of

Tennessee National Championship Track and Field Team. Presnell, who coaches the Milligan

throwers, coached the Elizabethton High School cross country and track team for 22 years,

leading the team to a state championship and several top-five finishes. He has coached 13

student-athletes who have received scholarships to compete at the collegiate level.

Coaching with Layne and Presnell is Milligan alumnus Assistant Coach Ryan Starr. Starr

serves as the recruiting coordinator and coaches the sprinters, jumpers, and hurdlers. At

various points during his running career at Milligan, Starr held the school record from the 3,000

meters to the half-marathon. He also was named to the NAIA Academic All-America team from

2000-03 and participated in 10 NAIA National Championship events while wearing a Milligan

singlet. Starr went on to do his graduate work at Duke University where he completed his last

year of eligibility for the Blue Devils. He competed in the 10,000 meter final of the ACC

Championships in 2004.

“There’s no place I wouldrather be than here pushingathletes towards excellence.”

- Ryan Starr, Assistant Coach

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CROSS COUNTRYHONORS2009AAC Champions (Women & Men)National Championships

11th (Women) / Gilliam Giffen (21st);Austin Ellis (23rd); Aaron Wood (205th); Brendan Hawkins (232nd)

2008AAC Champions (Women & Men)National Championships

4th (Women); 15th ‑ (men)

2007AAC/Region XII Champions (Women)AAC/Region XII Runner‑ups (Men)National Championships

3rd (Women) / Ben Ronoh (16th); Wegene Degefa (73rd)

2006AAC/Region XII Champions (Women)National Championships

6th (Women) / Will Frye (143rd);Jair Collie (152nd)

2005AAC/Region XII Champions (Women)AAC/Region XII Runner‑ups (Men)National Championships

10th (Women) / Chris Wright (52rd);Brandon Talbert (184th); Jair Collie (203rd)

CROSS COUNTRYALL‑AMERICANSGillian Giffen (2009)Austin Ellis (2009, 2008)Jacklyn Talbert (2007)Ben Ronoh (2007)Megan Lease (2005)Megan Lease (2004, 2003)Philip Rotich (2001)

TRACK AND FIELD ALL‑AMERICANSWegene Degefa 2009 (Outdoor)Brittany Bales 2008 (Indoor)MacKenzie LaBonte 2008 (Indoor)Kortney Goulds 2008 (Indoor)Nicole Moore 2008 (Indoor)Jacklyn Talbert 2008 (Indoor) Brittany Bales 2007 (Indoor)Josh Ferry 2007 (Indoor)Kortney Goulds 2007 (Indoor) MacKenzie LaBonte 2007 (Indoor)Rebecca McDowell 2007 (Indoor)Jacklyn Talbert 2007 (Indoor)Chris Wright 2006 (Indoor)Megan Lease 2005 (Indoor)Jakeith Hairston 2004 (Outdoor)Chris Wright 2004 (Indoor)Marta Zimon 2003 (Indoor)Megan Lease 2003 (Indoor)Philip Rotich 2002 (Indoor)Philip Rotich 2002 (Outdoor)Rebecca Dixon 2002 (Indoor)Rebecca Dixon 2002 (Outdoor)

CONTACTCoach Chris LaynePO Box 500Milligan College, TN [email protected]


HONORS2009AAC Tournament Semi‑FinalistAAC Regular Season Runner‑Up

2008AAC Tournament Semi‑Finalist

2007AAC Tournament Quarter‑Finalist


2005NAIA Region XII Quarter‑FinalistAAC Tournament Semi‑Finalist

2004NAIA Region XII Semi‑FinalistAAC Tournament Champion

2003NAIA Region XII Semi‑FinalistAAC Tournament ChampionNAIA Top 25 Ranking

2002NAIA Region XII Runner‑UpAAC Regular Season ChampionNAIA Top 25 Ranking

2001NAIA National TournamentNAIA Region XII ChampionAAC Regular Season ChampionNAIA Top 25 Ranking

OPPONENTSconferenceBryan CollegeMontreat CollegeReinhardt CollegeTennessee Wesleyan CollegeBluefield CollegeUnion CollegeVirginia Intermont College

non‑conferenceSouthern WesleyanUniversity of the CumberlandsCampbellsville UniversityCatawba CollegeAsbury CollegeLees‑McRae CollegeBrevard CollegeKing CollegeCovenant CollegeGeorgetown College

CONTACTCoach Lisa BuckleyPO Box 500Milligan College, TN [email protected] u

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GREAT SUCCESSThe women’s soccer team has qualified for postseason play every year since the

program’s inception in 1997. In the past five years, the Lady Buffs have captured

the AAC title twice, AAC Tournament title twice, and advanced to regionals three

times. In 2001, the Lady Buffs qualified for the national championship in St. Louis,

Missouri, having finished the season at 12th in the nation, with an 18-3-3 record. In

1999, the Lady Buffs were the #1 scoring team in the NAIA with 110 goals.

The program has produced 15 NAIA All-Americans, 26 All-Region Players, 53 All-

Conference Players, two Conference Players of the Year, two WUSA Professional

Players, four W-League Professional Players, and six National Team Players.

The Lady Buffs participate in a year-long training program, which consists of

individual player and team sessions, along with weight training and fitness

sessions. Not only do the Lady Buffs play 18 regular season games, they also

participate in an Indoor League at the Soccer Complex, as well as Spring

Exhibition Games.

u

WOMENʼS SOCCER

HEAD COACHCoach Lisa Buckley graduated from Milligan in

2004 after her collegiate career with the Lady Buffs

soccer program. She was a three-year starter for the

Lady Buffs which won three straight Appalachian

Athletic Conference championships, one Region XII

championship, and earned a birth in the 2001 NAIA

National Championship.

Before returning to Milligan, Buckley was an

assistant coach at Loras College for two seasons.

Loras has won five straight Iowa Intercollegiate

Athletic Conference championships and earned

births for the NCAA Division III National Tournament the last five seasons.

Buckley holds a NSCAA National Diploma, a master’s degree from Loras in

athletic administration, and a bachelor’s degree in human performance and

exercise science from Milligan. To go along with her coaching duties, she also is

an adjunct professor at Milligan.

“Playing soccer at Milliganhas made me realize howselflessness, hard work, andcommitment to a team canbuild your character andencourage you to pursue yourgoals through adversity.”

- Kelley Foster, Class of 2010


MAKING HISTORYIn only his second year at the helm of the men’s soccer program, Coach Adam

Laney led the team to an AAC regular season title and an impressive 11 wins on

the year. The Buffaloes are no strangers to success, as they made back-to-back

NAIA Region XII championship game appearances in 2006 and 2007. The 2006

season was a historic year for the Milligan Buffs, who won their first AAC

Championship and first AAC Tournament Championship titles. They went on to

win the NAIA Region XII Championship and advanced to the NAIA National

Championship in Daytona Beach, Florida, where they advanced to the quarter-

finals before falling 0-1 to the eventual National Champions. The Buffs were

ranked in the NAIA Top-25 and established a new school record for victories in a

season, finishing the season at 18-7.

In the last several years, the Buffs have made appearances at the NAIA Regional

XII Tournament and the AAC and TVAC Conference Tournaments. They have

produced 15 NAIA All-Americans, 18 All-Region Selections, 43 All-Conference

Selections, two professional, and six national team athletes.

The Buffs participate in a year-long training program consisting of individual and

team sessions, along with weight training and fitness sessions. Not only do the

Buffs play 18 regular season games, they also participate in an Indoor League at

the East Tennessee Soccer Complex, as well as five spring exhibition games.

MENʼS SOCCER

u

HEAD COACHCoach Adam Laney, the 2009 AAC Coach of the Year,

comes to Milligan from Campbell University in Buies

Creek, North Carolina, where he served as assistant

director for compliance and academic services.

Previously, he worked with Campbell for three seasons

as the assistant men’s soccer coach. Laney joined the

Fighting Camel staff in June 2005 and made an

immediate impact, helping direct the top defense in the

Atlantic Sun Conference. The Campbell defense led

the Atlantic Sun Conference in goals-against average (0.98) and shutouts (6) and

only once allowed more than two goals in a game. Prior to Campbell, he spent three

years as an assistant coach at Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

After playing his first two collegiate seasons at UNC Greensboro, Laney transferred

to Charleston Southern, where he earned a bachelor of science in kinesiology and

biology. At CSU, he was named to the 2000 Big South Conference All-Tournament

team.

“I am the happiest guy in theworld right now. It was a greatseason up to this point, and it’sperfect now”- David Lilly (’07), after winning the Regional

Championship and advancing to Nationals

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HONORS2009AAC Regular Season ChampsAAC Tournament Semi‑Finalist

2008AAC Tournament Quarter‑Finalist

2007NAIA Region XII Tournament

Finalist

2006NAIA National Tournament

Sweet 16NAIA Region XII ChampionAAC Tournament ChampionAAC Regular Season ChampionNAIA Top 25 Ranking


2004AAC Tournament Runner‑Up

2001NAIA Region XII Runner‑UpAAC Tournament Runner‑Up

OPPONENTSWest Virginia TechUniversity of theCumberlandsKing CollegeSavannah College of

Art & DesignLincoln Memorial UniversityCovenant CollegeBrevard CollegeMontreat CollegePiedmont CollegeMaryville CollegeTusculum CollegeTennessee Wesleyan CollegeBluefield CollegeUnion CollegeBryan CollegeLenior‑Rhyne College Carson‑Newman CollegeMethodist UniversityGuilford College

CONTACTCoach Adam LaneyPO Box 500Milligan College, TN [email protected]


OPPONENTSAsbury CollegeJohnson Bible CollegeMeredith CollegeBridgewater CollegeSouthern Virginia UniversityTennessee Wesleyan CollegeUniversity of theCumberlandsVirginia Intermont CollegeMontreat CollegeBerry CollegeSt. Thomas UniversitySpring Hill CollegeCampbellsville UniversityNorth Greenville UniversityKing CollegeMalone CollegeFreed‑Hardeman UniversityConcordia CollegeRoberts WesleyanBryan CollegeCovenant CollegeBluefield CollegeUVA‑WiseUnion CollegeTusculum CollegeEmory and Henry College

CONTACTCoach Doneva BaysPO Box 500Milligan College, TN [email protected] u

www.milliganbuffs.com | 11

STEADYThe Lady Buffs have a rich heritage in volleyball with prominent performances in

conference and regional tournaments. Milligan started the volleyball program in

the Volunteer State Athletic Conference and is now affiliated with the Appalachian

Athletic Conference and the NAIA. While being members of those conferences,

the Lady Buffs added many names to the All-Conference and All-Regional teams.

The Lady Buffs continually finish among the top teams in the conference and are

a very competitive program within the region. Several members of the volleyball

team are recognized at the end of each season as being some of the top athletes

in the AAC. Aside from athletic recognition, the Lady Buffs have been chosen as

the AAC Champions of Character in both 2008 and 2009.

The Lady Buffs host a “Dig for Cure” night in honor of National Breast Cancer

Awareness month and also join forces with Operation Christmas Child. They have

also served in various capacities through the Martin Luther King, Jr., Service Day

and often volunteer at the Carver Recreation Center.

u

WOMENʼS VOLLEYBALL

HEAD COACHHead Coach Doneva Bays, a recent inductee to the

Milligan College Athletic Hall of Fame, enters her

second season as head coach at Milligan. She brings

a history of athletic success both as a coach and

player. Bays coached at the collegiate level at both

NCAA Division I Coastal Carolina University (SC) and

Georgetown College (KY), where she served as an

assistant during their record setting year. The

Georgetown Tigers, under the guidance of Bays, set

a school record of 40-5 and achieved a ranking of 4th

in the nation, reaching the elite eight at the NAIA National Tournament. She and

the Georgetown Tiger’s team were inducted into the Georgetown College Hall of

Fame. Bays spent two years as the graduate assistant at East Tennessee State

University while working on her master’s degree in sports management. Bays

also served as head coach of the Coast Volleyball Club in San Diego, California.

As a player for the Lady Buffs in the mid-90s, Bays lettered in both volleyball and

basketball. She earned NAIA All-American honors and was a four year All-

Conference and All-Region selection for volleyball, leading the team to a No. 15

ranking in the NAIA Coaches’ Poll. Additionally, she was named the Tennessee

Valley Player of the Year as well as the Mid-South Region Player of the Year. In

basketball, she posted over 1,000 points and was a pivotal part of the Lady Buffs

basketball squad that finished 16th at nationals.

“Milligan volleyball is about unity,pride, respect, and working hard. Ithas allowed me to make friendshipsthat will last for a lifetime. Milliganvolleyball is a family!”

- Emilee Hale, Morristown, TN


AT THE TOPMilligan has one of the top men’s basketball programs in the NAIA. The Buffs have

won eight conference championships, averaged 20 wins per season since 1989, and

have had seven All-Americans since 1990.

Milligan advanced to the NAIA National Tournament in 1995, 1999, and 2001,

including a “Sweet Sixteen” appearance in 1999. The Buffs have been ranked

among the NAIA’s top 25 seven times and as high as sixth in the nation.

Milligan remains the only undefeated men’s basketball team in Appalachian

Conference history, with a 21-0 conference record in 1999. A total of 29 wins that

year broke the previous school record of 27 wins set by the 1990 team.

NOTABLE ALUMS

Del Harris (’58)

Former head coach of the

NBA’s Houston Rockets,

Milwaukee Bucks, and Los

Angeles Lakers. One of only

20 NBA coaches to win over 500 games.

Currently assistant coach of the Chicago

Bulls.

Sonny Smith (’58)

Legendary collegiate head

coach, best known for his

years at Auburn University,

where he is second all-time

in wins. While at Auburn, Smith coached the

likes of Charles Barkley and Chuck Person.

Currently Smith is a popular commentator

for CSS College Basketball television

games.

COACHING STAFFCoach Bill Robinson enters into his first year as the head

Men’s Basketball coach of the men’s program. Prior to coming

to Milligan, Robinson was at fellow AAC school Montreat

College, where he served in several capacities, including head

men’s basketball coach, head men’s golf coach, and as

athletic director.

During the past eight years of Robinson's 12-year tenure at Montreat, the Cavaliers

had four 20-win seasons, won an AAC regular season championship, two AAC

tournament championships, and made two appearances at the National Tournament.

Additionally, Robinson, a three-time AAC Coach of the Year, sets a standard for his

players off the court. As a result, the Cavaliers were voted the AAC Men's Basketball

Champions of Character four years in a row.

Before coaching at Montreat, Robinson served as the head men's basketball coach

at LeTourneau University in Longview, Texas. Upon his promotion from assistant to

head coach in 1993, Robinson, then 25, became the youngest head coach in the

nation. In just three years Robinson transformed LeTourneau's basketball program

and in 1996-97 led them in their first winning season in 10 years. While in Texas,

Robinson also earned a master’s degree in health and kinesiology from the

University of Texas at Tyler.

Assistant Coach Aaron Collazo played under the direction of

Coach Robinson at Montreat. During his career, Collazo was

named to the All-AAC Tournament team in 2005 and 2007 and

selected to the All-AAC second team in 2008. Collazo also

surpassed the 1,000 point scoring mark and was elected as

team captain.

MENʼS BASKETBALL

.www.milligan.edu | 13

HONORS2001NAIA National Tournament



1976, 1977, 1979, 1990, 1991,1993, 1994, 1995, 1999, 2000,2001Conference Champions

OPPONENTSconferenceBluefield CollegeBryan College Reinhardt College Montreat College Tennessee Wesleyan CollegeUnion College University of Virginia‑WiseVirginia Intermont College

ALL‑AMERICANSTooney Cash 1971Mark Berg 1972Don Threlkeld 1973Kenny Leatherwood 1976Marty Street 1979Dino Allen 1990Tommy Musick 1991Will Ratliff 1993Jason Pittser 1995Lance Ashby 1999Caleb Gilmer 1999Jeff Barnes 2008

20‑WIN SEASONS (Since 1989)1989 ‑ 199619992000200120062007

CONTACTCoach Bill RobinsonPO Box 500Milligan College, TN [email protected]

. u14 | www.milliganbuffs.com

HONORS2009AAC Conference Co‑ChampionsChampions of Character

Team Award

2008Champions of Character

Team Award


Team Award


Team Award


Team Award

2000NAIA National TournamentAAC Conference Champions

1999NAIA National TournamentAAC Conference Champions

OPPONENTSLee UniversityBerea CollegePfeiffer CollegeTennessee Temple UniversityTennessee Wesleyan CollegeVirginia Intermont CollegeKing CollegeBluefield CollegeBryan CollegeCovenant CollegeUnion CollegeBrevard CollegeUVA‑WiseMontreat CollegeTennessee Temple UniversityMaryville CollegeSouthern Virginia University

CONTACTCoach Rich AubreyPO Box 500Milligan College, TN [email protected]

u www.milliganbuffs.com | 15

RECORD BREAKERSIn recent years, the Lady Buffs have been ranked as high as 13th in the nation

in the NAIA. In 2009, the Lady Buffs were crowned the AAC regular season co-

champions. The Lady Buffs also extended their streak of earning the AAC

Champions of Character award to five straight years.

The program’s accomplishments include four conference championships and

three conference tournament titles. The Lady Buffs made four consecutive trips

to the NAIA Division II National Tournament from 1997-2000. Milligan is the

only women’s basketball team in the AAC to go undefeated during the

conference regular season, and we’ve done it twice! The 1996-97 and the

1998-99 teams finished 21-0 against conference opponents and produced two

All-American honorees. Program veterans have held all-time records for points

and rebounds in a career for Division II of the NAIA.

The Lady Buffs are also all about service. Each year begins with a service

project trip, and the team is actively involved in community service at local

schools, churches, and non-profit organizations throughout the year.

Each winter, the Buffs participate in a warm weather tournament. Past

destinations have included Hilton Head, Orlando, Daytona Beach, Fort

Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach.

WOMENʼS BASKETBALL

HEAD COACHCoach Rich Aubrey took the helm of the women’s

program in 1993, bringing with him a tradition of

success and continued improvement. In 2009,

Coach Aubrey recorded his 300th win at Milligan.

His coaching career began at Washington College

Academy in Limestone, Tennessee, and continued at

several other stops, including Sullivan South High

School in Kingsport (TN), before returning to his

alma mater in 1993. Aubrey was named Conference

Coach of the Year in 1997, 1998, 2000, 2006, and

2009. Coach Aubrey was also recognized with the Champion of Character Award

for NAIA Regions XII and XIII in 2006. Aubrey holds a B.A. and M.Ed. from

Milligan and an Ed.D. in educational leadership from East Tennessee State

University.


AT THE TOPThe Milligan Buffs have enjoyed a high level of success in

the past decade. The Buffs captured Appalachian Athletic

Conference Championships in 2004, 2006, and 2007. In

2007, Milligan advanced to the NAIA National Championship

at Indiana National Golf Club by winning the Region XII

Championship. The trip to nationals was their first in the

school’s history. Four other times the Buffs have finished as

AAC runner-up, for a total of seven first or second place

finishes.

Individually, Milligan’s golf team has had numerous players

earn individual honors. In 1997, Tristan Chaffins (Louisville,

KY) won the AAC and NAIA Region XII Championship to

advance and represent Milligan in the NAIA National

Championship in Tulsa, Oklahoma, for the first time in school

history. The Buffs’ most recent individual champions include

Grayson Patton, who in 2005 won the AAC and NAIA Region

XII Championship as a freshman to advance to the national

championship in Olathe, Kansas. Lightning would strike

again for the Buffs in 2007, as Milligan freshman Terrance

Evans won the AAC and NAIA Region XII Championship to

also advance to the national championship in Plymouth,

Indiana.

Milligan’s golf team traditionally competes in top tournaments

throughout the region. They have traveled to tournaments at

such courses as “The Blue Monster” and the “Great White

Shark” at The Doral in Miami (FL), North Carolina’s famous

Pinehurst #2, #4, #5, #6, and #7, and The Cliffs Valley and

Vineyard in South Carolina.

The Buffs practice and play home tournaments locally at the

Elizabethton Golf Club, just minutes from the campus. EGC

is a 6,339 yard, par 72, 18-hole course that lies on gently

rolling and sloping terrain. EGC hosts many major

tournaments, including the East Tennessee Amateur each

summer.

GOLF

u

HEAD COACHEntering his 13th season as the Milligan golf coach, Coach

Tony Wallingford continues to build a winning tradition for

the Buffaloes. This season women’s golf will be added to

the mix.

In 2007, Wallingford led the Buffs to their first ever NAIA

National Championship appearance. That same year,

Milligan won both the AAC and Region XII Championships.

The Buffs have finished in the top two teams in the AAC six

times, winning the championship in 2004, 2006, and 2007,

and three times in the NAIA Region XII, winning the championship in 2007.

Wallingford is a three-time AAC Coach of the Year and was named NAIA Region XII

Coach of the Year in 2007. He has recruited and coached three different players that

have won conference and regional championships, advancing to nationals as

individuals. He has coached 14 different players that have earned All-Conference

honors, two NAIA Academic All-Americans, and he has coached the three Players of

the Year. Wallingford is dedicated to the total development of his players, both on and

off the course. In 2009, Milligan golf was recognized as the Appalachian Athletic

Conference Champions of Character.

Wallingford holds a bachelor’s degree from Washington and Jefferson College and a

M.A. in secondary school administration from the University of Akron.

“My experience at Milligan was great. The camaraderiewith my teammates was special. We worked hard,competed hard, and pulled for each other.”

- Aaron Jessee (’05), Gray, TN


HONORS2009AAC Champions Champions

of Character

2008AAC Team Runner‑up

2007AAC Champions, NAIA Region XIIChampions, NAIA NationalChampionship Qualifier, NationalTournament Appearances

2006AAC Champions, NAIA Region XIIRunner‑up

National Tournament Individual QualifiersTerrance Evans (2007)Grayson Patton (2005)Tristan Chaffins (1997)

All AACJay Bernhardt (2009)Ben Treadway (2008)Grayson Patton

(2005, 2006, 2007)Aaron Jessee

(2004, 2005, 2006)Matt Ongie (2004)Matt Barefoot (2004)Michael Morrell (2003)Jeremy Hensley (2002)Nelson Caudill (2001)Blake Stewart (2002, 2003)Jesse Boyd (2000)Tristan Chaffins (1997, 1998)Trey Wilburn (1994)

Players of the YearTerrance Evans (2007)Grayson Patton (2005)Tristan Chaffins (1997)

COURSESCollegiate Preview Golf Classic,Miami, FL

BMW/The Cliffs CollegiateInvitational, Travelers Rest, SC

Southeast Kentucky Collegiate,London, KY

Orange County National SpringCollegiate Event, Orlando, FL

West Virginia Invitational,Pipestem, WV

Pinehurst Collegiate SpringCollegiate Event, Pinehurst, NC

CONTACTCoach Tony WallingfordPO Box 500Milligan College, TN [email protected]


HONORS2005Region XII Runner‑Up

2003AAC Conference Champions

2001AAC Conference Champions

OPPONENTSUnion CollegeCarson‑Newman CollegeSouthern WesleyanUniversityPikeville CollegeSeton Hill UniversityBerry CollegeSouthern Polytechnic State

UniversityMontreat CollegeBrewton‑Parker CollegeSavannah College of Art &

DesignBryan CollegeBrevard CollegeKing CollegeRoanoke CollegeCovenant CollegeBluefield CollegeVirginia Intermont CollegeTennessee Wesleyan CollegeUVA‑WiseUnion CollegeTusculum CollegeMaryville CollegeEmory & Henry College

CONTACTCoach Nathan MeadePO Box 500Milligan College, TN [email protected] u

MOMENTUMIn 2009, the Milligan Buffs recorded a school best 39-19 record overall. The Buffs

have seen much success throughout the years as the program has a strong

heritage. In 2001, the Buffs won the conference championship and carried that

momentum through the 2002 season. The Buffs play roughly 50 games a year,

including many NCAA Division II teams, which help to prepare for the conference

season. This preparation has helped the Buffs finish at the top of the conference

in recent years.

The Milligan baseball program has had several top players in the AAC in recent

years. In just his third year as head coach, Meade has coached 15 All-AAC

Academic selections and six All-AAC first team selections. The most notable alum

from the program in the past few years is right-handed pitcher Nathan Fritz who

was acquired by the Minnesota Twins organization in 2008.

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MENʼS BASEBALL

COACHING STAFFCoach Nathan Meade is entering his fourth season as the head coach of the Milligan College baseball

program. Last season, the Buffaloes finished the year with a school best 39-19 record, and a 17-10 mark in the

AAC. Over the past three seasons, Meade has coached five AAC-first selections, two gold glove winners and

has had one player (Nathan Fritz) advance to the professional ranks within the Twins Organization. He

previously served as the head coach of the Tennessee Thunder, a member of the Southern Collegiate Baseball

League. A Milligan graduate, Meade played four years for the Buffaloes, starting as a middle infielder and also

collecting the single season record for stolen bases. Milligan made two NAIA Region XII Tournament

appearances while he was a player. Meade holds a bachelor’s degree from Milligan and a master’s in sports

management from East Tennessee State University.

Assistant Coach Ray Smith is in his 13th year with the Buffalo baseball program. A

long-time professional player with the Minnesota Twins, San Diego Padres, and

Oakland A’s, Smith continues to manage in the Twins’ system during the summer

months, something he has done since 1987. Smith, a graduate of the University of

Oregon, also serves as Milligan’s athletic director.

Assistant Coach Chris Gordon rejoined the Milligan Buffs in 2008 as the pitching

and catcher coach. A 2007 graduate of Milligan College, Chris was a catcher on the

Buffs’ squad for four years. Prior to his coaching stint at Milligan, Chris was the

pitching coach of the two-time league champions Tennessee Tornado, a member of

the SCBL.

20 |20 | www.milliganbuffs.com

AT THE TOPMilligan’s softball program is considered among the elite in the

conference, ranking in the top three 17 times in the last 20 years. The

Lady Buffs have won seven conference titles and advanced to 15

district/regional tournaments. They have also qualified for an NAIA

National berth during Milligan’s 18 years of fast pitch softball. In 2002,

2004, and 2008, the Lady Buffs were named the AAC Tournament

Champions and advanced to the NAIA Region XII Tournament.

The Milligan softball program has produced over 55 All-Conference

athletes, 25 All Region athletes, and six Players of the Year. Three

former players (Tonya Jenkins, Angela Bratton, and Kelly McCarty)

have also been inducted into Milligan’s Hall of Fame.

The Lady Buffs incorporate the NAIA Champions of Character Program

as the team serves in the community. These projects include visiting

the elderly at the Appalachian Christian Village and helping with after-

school projects at both the Elizabethton and Johnson City Boys and

Girls Club.

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HEAD COACHCoach Wes Holly is in his 22nd year at Milligan.

He owns a career record of 630-359, recording

his prestigious 600th win during the 2008

campaign. He is a six time TVAC and AAC

Coach of the Year and three-time NAIA District

Coach of the Year. Additionally, Holly was named

a National Fast Pitch Coaches Association

Region III Coach of the Year. Holly played ASA

Major Open Men’s Fast Pitch for 23 years on

winning teams in Tennessee, Virginia, South

Atlantic Regionals, and played in The Men’s ASA Major Open Nationals in

Clearwater, Florida. Holly is a member of the NFCA and currently is ranked among

the top five active NAIA softball coaches.

“I’ve never experienced anything likethis. We look up to these players. Ican’t believe we were able to take thefield with them in competition. It wasa great experience!”

- Jessica Blevins, Elizabethton, TN, following anexhibition game with the USA Softball Women’s

National Team

WOMENʼS SOFTBALL


HONORS2009AAC Champions

2008AAC ChampionsAAC Tournament ChampionsNAIA Region XIII Tournament

2007NAIA Region XIII TournamentNAIA Reagion XIII Runner‑up

2004AAC Tournament ChampionsNAIA Region XIII Tournament

2003NAIA Region XIII Tournament

2002AAC Tournament ChampionsNAIA Region XIII Tournament

OPPONENTSNorth Greenville UniversityUniversity of the CumberlandsTusculum CollegeNewberry CollegeKing CollegeIndiana Wesleyan SoutheastMaryville CollegeMountain State UniversityBrevard CollegeVirginia Intermont CollegeMontreat CollegeUnion CollegeUVA‑WiseTennessee Wesleyan CollegeBluefield CollegeConcord UniversityChowan UniveristyCovenant CollegeEast Tennessee State

University

CONTACTCoach Wes HollyPO Box 500Milligan College, TN [email protected]

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HONORS

Lady Buffs2008NAIA Region XIII Tournament

2005AAC ChampionsAAC Tournament ChampionsNAIA National Tournament

2000AAC ChampionsAAC Tournament ChampionsNAIA Region XIII ChampionsNAIA National Tournament

1996AAC ChampionsNAIA National Tournament

OPPONENTSBrevard CollegeEmory & Henry CollegeLincoln Memorial UniversityMars Hill CollegeMaryville CollegeTusculum CollegeUnion CollegeUVA‑WiseBluefield CollegeCovenant CollegeKing CollegeTennessee Wesleyan College

CONTACTCoach Ron WorrellPO Box 500Milligan College, TN [email protected]

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POWER & STRENGTHAn Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) powerhouse, the

Lady Buffs have won the conference crown several times in

the past decade and made three trips to the NAIA Region

XII National Championship. In 2008, the Lady Buffaloes

advanced to the NAIA Region XII Tournament continuing

their successful tradition.

Milligan recruits several of the best local, regional and

national players from across the U.S., as well as

accomplished international players. Recently, the college

expanded its men’s and women’s tennis programs, with

additional scholarships and a full-time coach. Both teams

have produced many All-Conference and All-Region

selections.

The Mathes Tennis Center was dedicated in September

2005, with six lighted courts, all conforming to collegiate

tournament standards. Milligan hosted the 2008 NAIA

Region XII Tournament and has played host to the Atlantic

Sun Conference Tournament.

TENNIS

HEAD COACHCoach Ron Worrell is in his fourth season at

the helm of the Buffalo tennis program after 14

years of collegiate coaching experience at both

the NCAA Division I and NAIA levels. While at

Virginia Intermont College, Worrell was

selected the AAC’s men’s Coach of the Year

five times and was selected the NAIA Region

XII Coach of the Year three times. Worrell has

coached three NAIA All-Americans and led his

teams to the NAIA National Championship four

times.

24 | www.milliganbuffs.com24 |

BUILDING FOR OUR FUTURESwimming was added in 2007 as an intercollegiate sport at

Milligan College. The team utilizes the college’s 25-meter

swimming pool, located in the Steve Lacy Fieldhouse.

In 2009, the Aqua Buffs finished 12th at the NAIA Swimming

and Diving National Championships, while the Lady Aqua Buffs

finished 21st. In only two years of competition, the Milligan swim

program has proven itself to be a top contender in the nation.

The swim program continually breaks previous school records

and national marks laying the ground work for a rich tradition of

success.

Prior to the creation of the intercollegiate swim team, Milligan

had a swimming club from 1977 to 1986. The famed “Water

Buffaloes” challenged both club and varsity intercollegiate

teams. Under the leadership of Coach Chuck Gee, the team

enjoyed much success, recording a perfect 11-0 record in 1981.

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HEAD COACHFormer Science Hill and Dobyns-Bennett High

School Coach Ron Goehring heads the program.

During his coaching career at Science Hill and

Dobyns-Bennett High Schools, Coach Goehring

was honored six times as the North East Tennessee

Regional Swim Coach of the Year. He has served as

the assistant aquatics director for Johnson City

Parks and Recreation, head U.S.S. coach for the

Johnson City Swim Association, swimming coach at

The Ridges, and owner and operator of Aqua Gym. Additionally, he served as head

coach of the Asheville High School swim program in 2003-04. In 2005-06, he taught

swimming and English in Nicaragua on Ometepe Island.

Coach Goehring holds a bachelor of science in physical education and recreation

from Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania and is a certified pool operator. He

holds certifications in Swim America and the American Swim Coaches Association

and is a certified American Red Cross instructor trainer in all swim levels.

SWIMMING CONTACTCoach Ron Goehring

PO Box 500, Milligan College, TN 37682800.262.8337 | [email protected]

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GO BUFFS GOThe Milligan Cheerleading Squad is a co-ed squad that

cheers for men’s and women’s basketball. Milligan began

offering scholarships to new 2007 fall recruits, as

cheerleading transitions to a completely scholarship athletic

organization with a total of 16 scholarship cheerleaders.

Along with being a strong, athletic cheerleading squad, the

Milligan cheerleaders participate in several community

activities and events. On a recurring basis, the squad

participates in the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer

Awareness Race, sponsors and leads free community

cheerleading camps, and volunteers with various non-profit

ministries.

While having a strong cheerleading squad is a focus, the

overall goal of the program is to develop strong servant-

leaders and grow as individuals through an understanding of

team, leadership, and volunteer work.

In 2009, the Milligan Cheerleading Squad received several

accolades at the Universal Cheerleading Association (UCA)

college division camp including the “Camp Champions” and

“Most Collegiate Squad” awards.

CHEERLEADING

HEAD COACHCoach Ronda Paulson is a Milligan

alumna, earning a bachelor of science in

biology and a master’s of education in

secondary education. She has 15 years of

cheering experience, seven years of dance

experience, and eight years of coaching

experience.

“I love cheerleading because it’s funto see everyone get so pumped up insupport of our teams. Milligan has afabulous athletic heritage and it’s myprivilege to wear the orange and black.”

- Leslie Blowers (’09), Elizabethton, TN

CONTACTCoach Ronda PaulsonPO Box 500Milligan College, TN 37682423.542.5227 or [email protected]

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TAPING INTO THE REGIONMountain biking is a collegiate cycling discipline

that has evolved into its own sport. It is now a

national discipline with 10 conferences and its

own national championship.

In the Southeastern Collegiate Cycling

Conference, Milligan competes against several

outstanding collegiate programs including East

Tennessee State University, Lees-McRae

College, Brevard College, Appalachian State,

University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Union College,

and Warren Wilson College.

Mountain biking has a fall competitive season

and involves four events: cross country, short

track cross country, dual slalom and downhill.

MOUNTAIN BIKING

HEAD COACHCoach Brad Hill is no

stranger to Milligan or

to coaching. As a

student athlete, he

was a member of the

record setting baseball

team that tied a

school record for wins

in 2004. Hill then went on to coach two years at

Morristown East High School. During the 2005 and

2006 summers, Hill was the head coach for the

Tennessee Thunder, a member of the Southern

Collegiate Baseball League. He has spent the past

two years as an assistant coach for the Milligan

Buffaloes baseball team.

“I am excited about the opportunity to build this newprogram at Milligan. With the growth of mountain biking as acollegiate sport and our fortunate location, it is the perfectsport for the college to expand its athletic endeavors."

- Brad Hill, Head Coach

CONTACTCoach Brad HillPO Box 500Milligan College, TN [email protected]

www.milliganbuffs.com | 27

.ANGLIN SOCCER COMPLEX & ETSF INDOOR SOCCER FACILITYThe Buffs have two lighted Bermuda fields, a regulation soccer field and an

adjacent training field. The game field is 120 x 72, and the training field is 110 x

62. The ETSF indoor soccer facility is located just 10 minutes from campus. The

team plays and trains there during the off-season.

MATHES TENNIS CENTERSix lighted courts were dedicated in Fall 2005, all conforming to collegiate

tournament standards.

STEVE LACY FIELDHOUSEThe Fieldhouse is home to the Milligan basketball and volleyball programs. This

62,000 square foot air-conditioned facility houses regulation basketball and

volleyball courts, a 25-meter swimming pool, classrooms, weight-room, indoor

batting cages, and other facilities designed to accommodate Milligan’s

philosophy of lifetime sports. A seating capacity of 1,600 provides a great

atmosphere in which to play intercollegiate athletics.

ANGLIN BASEBALL FIELDFenced-in field with bullpens, lighting for night games, foul poles, top-rails,

distance markers, covered/lighted batting cages, and new infield dirt. It is

located in a picturesque setting adjacent to Buffalo Creek.

ANGLIN SOFTBALL FIELDThe Anglin Softball Field dimensions include 200 feet down left/right lines and

225 feet in center field. There is a hitting area along with pitching bullpens. The

field is completely enclosed with fenced in dugouts and is adjacent to the David

Quillen Sports Complex building.

A DOMINANT FORCEMilligan was awarded the Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) coveted Duard Walker All-Sports Trophy for the first six years of the award.

The Duard Walker All-Sports Trophy was established as a way of recognizing memberinstitutions with the most successful all-around sports program for the year. Member collegescompete in baseball, basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, and volleyball.Points are awarded based on team place finish in the regular season and sport conferencechampionship tournament.

The trophy was named the Duard Walker Trophy in 2000 in honor of Coach Duard Walker whoretired after 50 years of service to Milligan College as teacher, coach, and athletics director.Walker was named the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) AthleticsDirector of the Year for 2001 and was inducted to the NAIA Hall of Fame in 2008.

FACILITIES

Office of AdmissionsPO Box 210, Milligan College, TN 37682

www.milligan.edu [email protected] 800.262.8337

KENTUCKY

TENNESSEENC

GEORGIA

WV

VIRGINIA

uACADEMIC PROGRAMMilligan offers students a Christian liberalarts education in a community of inquiry,responsibility, and caring. The liberal arts aretaught from a perspective of God’s activitywith humanity. The college’s core curriculum,with an interdisciplinary humanities programand Bible courses, educates studentstoward the world in an open andconstructive way, to lead and to serve.

NATIONAL RECOGNITIONMilligan is one of the Top 10 BestBaccalaureate Colleges in the South in the2009 and 2010 editions of “America’s BestColleges” by U.S. News & World Report.

ACCREDITATION Milligan College is accredited by theCommission on Colleges of the SouthernAssociation of Colleges and Schools (1866Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097; Telephone number 404-679-4501).

DEGREES AWARDEDBachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science(BS), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN),Master of Business Administration (MBA),Master of Education (MEd), Master of Science in Occupational Therapy(MSOT)

FACULTY 75 full-time faculty have career-basedexperience and more than 75 percent haveearned the highest degree in their field. Theyare respected and caring Christian scholarswho are committed to scholarship,excellence in teaching, and the faithdevelopment of their students.

STUDENT BODYOur 1,100 students come from more than40 states and 10 nations, so you’ll findstudents with similar interests as yourself,as well as those of different cultures andviewpoints.

STUDENT‑FACULTY RATIOA low student-faculty ratio offers personalattention and class sizes that typically rangefrom 10-15 students.

RESIDENCE LIFE81% of traditional students live on campusin one of six residence halls or studentapartments, creating a true collegiateenvironment. To see photos and roomdiagrams, visit www.milligan.edu.

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONSWith more than 40 service, honorary, andprofessional organizations on campus, thereis something for everyone.

CHURCH AFFILIATIONThroughout its history Milligan College hasmaintained an active relationship with theChristian Churches/Churches of Christ.Committed to the restoration of NewTestament Christianity and the unity of allbelievers, these congregations are adynamic and growing fellowship. Given thiscommitment to Christian unity, studentsfrom various Christian traditions findMilligan a welcoming community.

LOCATIONMilligan’s 181-acre picturesque campus islocated in northeastern Tennessee, in thedynamic Tri-Cities region.

OFF CAMPUS LEARNING Many majors offer internships, which grantcollege credit and work experience prior tograduation. Students can also go beyondgeographical and cultural boundariesthrough study abroad programs and manyoff-campus learning opportunities sponsoredby the Council for Christian Colleges &Universities (CCCU).

TECHNOLOGYAll campus facilities are networked with fiberoptics and many areas are wireless. Everyresidence hall room and apartment featuresa high-speed data connection to the campusnetwork and Internet, telephone service,voice mail, and cable TV. Students haveaccess to computers in various labs andtechnology classrooms on campus.

ATHLETIC POWERHOUSEMilligan is an athletic powerhouse in theAppalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) andNational Association of IntercollegiateAthletics (NAIA), with 20 intercollegiatesports. In the past 10 years, Milligan haswon more than 50 conference titles andmade 57 national tournamentappearances. Men’s Intercollegiate Sports:Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Golf,Mountain Biking, Soccer, Swimming, Tennis,Track and Field. Women’s IntercollegiateSports: Basketball, Cheerleading, CrossCountry, Golf, Mountain Biking, Soccer,Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field,Volleyball.

SERVICE & MISSIONSStudents are involved in a variety of serviceprojects and mission work throughout theworld. Many classes encourage servicelearning, and various student organizationslead service projects. Special mission tripsare taken to Appalachia, inner-city America,Native American reservations, and othernations.

CHRISTIAN COLLEGEMilligan is a member of the Council forChristian Colleges & Universities(www.cccu.org), a group of 100 colleges anduniversities whose commitment to a Christ-centered life goes beyond a mere occasionalreference to religious traditions. Milliganactively integrates high-quality academicprograms with biblical faith and a service-oriented philosophy to prepare students forlife’s journey.

COSTSUndergraduate costs for 2009-10: Tuition: $21,200 per year; Fees: $660 peryear; Room and Board: $5,650 per year.Costs are the same for in-state and out-of-state students. 2010-11 costs will beannounced in February 2010. Seewww.milligan.edu/SFS for details.

FINANCIAL AIDMilligan is named one of the Best Buys inthe South among bacclaureate colleges byU.S. News & World Report. Approximately96 percent of Milligan students receivefinancial aid, including academicscholarships and need-based grants. Seewww.miligan.edu/SFS for completescholarship details.

MILLIGANAs a Christian liberal arts college, Milligan College seeks

to honor God by educating men and women to be servant‑leaders.

FAST FACTSMAJORS & ACADEMIC PROGRAMSAccountingApplied Finance & AccountingArtBibleBiologyBusiness AdministrationCertificate in LeadershipChemistryChild & Youth DevelopmentChild LifeChildrenʼs MinistryChristian MinistryCoachingCommunicationsComputer Information SystemsDigital MediaEarly Childhood EducationEconomicsEducationElementary EducationEnglishEthnic StudiesExercise ScienceFilm StudiesFine ArtsFitness & WellnessFrenchGermanGreekHealth Care AdministrationHistoryHumanitiesHuman Performance &

Exercise ScienceIntercultural StudiesInternational BusinessInterpersonal &

Public CommunicationJazz StudiesLanguage ArtsLeadershipLegal StudiesManagementMarketingMathematicsMinistryMissionsMultimedia JournalismMusicMusic EducationMusic MinistryNursingPhilosophyPhotographyPhysical EducationPhysical SciencePolitical SciencePublic RelationsPsychologyPublic Leadership & ServiceSociologySpanishSpecial EducationSports ManagementTheatre ArtsWomenʼs StudiesWorship LeadershipWorship MinistryYouth Ministry

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