Tusculum College Band Program to present Spring Concert on Thursday, May 1

Classics from a variety of musical styles will be featured in the Spring Concert of the Tusculum College Band Program on Thursday, May 1.

The Tusculum College Concert Band, Jazz Band and Handbell Choir will be featured in the concert, which begins at 7 p.m. in the auditorium of the Annie Hogan Byrd Fine Arts Building on campus. The concert is free and open to the public.

One of Mozart’s most recognizable pieces, “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik” will be performed by the Concert Band as well as Dvorak’s “Slavonic Dance #1”  and “National Emblem,” Edwin Eugene Bagley’s most famous march.  The Concert Band will also be performing Leroy Anderson’s “Blue Tango” and  Robert Smith’s “Legend of the Queen Anne’s Revenge,” based on the tale of the infamous pirate Blackbeard.

The Jazz Band, which played earlier this month at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center preview party, will perform such standards as Cole Porter’s “Night and Day,” Earle Hagen’s “Harlem Nocturne,” Sammy Nestico’s “Quiet Breaker and “Little Liza Jane,” one of the classics of the New Orleans brass band tradition. Guest vocalist Amy Saxonmeyer will join the Jazz Band during the performance.

The Handbell Choir’s repertoire for the concert varies from the “Wizard of Oz” favorite, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” to the classic rock anthem “Stairway to Heaven” to a recent pop favorite, “You Raise Me Up.”

The band program began in 2010 with the formation of a pep band and has grown to include a Marching Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Handbell Choir and various small ensembles.

The Tusculum College Concert Band will be one of the featured groups during the Tusculum Band Program’s upcoming Spring Concert.

Local educators, students invited to ‘Pack the Park’ on May 3

Fun and entertainment for all ages is planned for “Pack the Park for Education” activities surrounding the Saturday, May 3, Tusculum College Pioneer baseball game at Pioneer Park.

While providing a fun weekend outing for local families is one reason for Tusculum College to sponsor “Pack the Park for Education,” its primary goal is to honor those who are dedicated to providing a quality education to the community’s young people. Throughout the event, Tusculum College wants to express its appreciation to all those involved in the Greeneville and Greene County school systems whose efforts are preparing the leaders of tomorrow.

“What better way to spend a Saturday afternoon, enjoying baseball, music, food and fun, while honoring a profession central to the local community, economic development, and the future of the region, state and nation,” said Tusculum College President Nancy B. Moody.

Festivities will begin at 3:30 p.m. at Pioneer Park on the Tusculum campus with a free concert featuring recording artists Austin Baze, Michelle Leigh and Greeneville’s own Step Cousins.

Austin Baze, the duo of Brian Buckner and Nick Gunter, will be joined by musicians Dave Fowler, Jack Gavin and Jason Roller, who have played with such artists as Tracy Lawrence, Charlie Daniels, Dolly Parton, Tanya Tucker, Dave Mason and others. Michelle Leigh is an up-and-coming southern-rock performer who has toured with the “Young Guns of Country.” Local band Step Cousins mixes past and present country and has played in the popular Dogwood Park Concert Series. Dave Fowler and Dave Fowler Productions have been instrumental in helping the college provide this concert to the community. (Please see the bio information below  for more information about each of the artists.)

A “fun zone” for kids and those young at heart will feature inflatables, corn hole, face and body painting and other free activities outside Pioneer Park during the event.

Concessions will be available and an area will be open to all who want to bring a blanket or chairs and tailgate prior to the baseball game against Bluefield State.

Admission to the baseball game will be free to all students, teachers, teacher assistants, bus drivers, cafeteria workers, custodians and maintenance personnel, school board members, etc. Throughout the game, local educators will be honored in a variety of ways.

A fireworks display, sponsored by Watauga Orthopaedics, will immediately follow the game to conclude the day’s festivities.

Concert Performers

Austin Baze with Dave Fowler, Jack Gavin and Jason Roller:

Austin Baze  (Brian Buckner and Nick Gunter) –  Austin Baze is a duo from the foothills of Western North Carolina and Greeneville, Tenn., carrying on their strong music heritage and deep rooted beliefs. They grew up influenced by generations of musicians in the Appalachian Mountains.  ” I remember when we sat around the porch, hill top, or just wherever…pickin and singing with all our family and friends. ” said Brian Buckner…..” We have been singing together since we were kids in church, and other venues in the later years. “adds Nick Gunter. The years have passed and now here they are; writing songs about life, love, and their experiences. They are excited to be back together in their element doing what they love. “We are working on a new project with our producer Dave Fowler of Dave Fowler Productions, and looking forward to sharing our music with all of you!!”

 

Dave Fowler: Nashville record producer, tour manager, and professional artist.  He has composed, arranged, and recorded many original songs along with producing records for a number of artists.  He was Dolly Parton’s tour manage and band coordinator from 2005 to 2009 and has managed Collin Raye. He has played bass guitar for more than 30 years and has toured with Lorrie Morgan, Tracy Lawrence, Rhett Akins, Dottie West, Edwin McCain, Cinderella, John Michal Montgomery, Chely Wright, Dolly Parton, Collin Raye, Joe Diffie and Mark Chesnut.

 

Jack Gavin – played drums for Charlie Daniels band for 15 years. He also played and tour managed Tanya Tucker for 10 years. He and Dave Fowler were also were the rhythm section for country artist Tracy Lawrence for 5 years.

 

Jason Roller – plays electric guitars. He has toured with Tracy Lawrence, Joe Diffie, Wynonna, Dave Mason, Dolly Parton and many others.

 

 

Michelle Leigh:

Edgy and honest, Michelle Leigh brings a no-holds barred approach to her writing and her music. The Southern Rock Uprising Records recording artist’s songwriting style can only be described as raw and honest. Her songs amplify real-life situations, real-life problems and real-life solutions.  She has crafted a sound and style that mixes Southern Rock (a traditionally male dominated genre) with Country and Pop elements. Michelle has toured with the “Young Guns of Country” and won the Charlotte Music Awards 2013 Women in Rock Showcase.  Michelle performs regularly throughout the region and most recently at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino.  She spends her time between her home in Marshall, North Carolina and Nashville, Tennessee.

 

Step Cousins:

A local group providing a pure mixture of past and present country, with a light alternative sense and a feel of something new. Their high energy show appeals to people of any age.  Step Cousins was formed in the fall of 2012, cultivating a sound all their own in their hometown of Greeneville. They have had many local accomplishments since their formation, including a first place finish in the Appalachian Fair youth talent show, a performance in American Downtown, Tusculum College’s tailgate series, Coffeehouse series and a slot in the Dogwood Park series.

 

Austin Baze with Dave Fowler, Jack Gavin and Jason Roller:

Austin Baze  (Brian Buckner and Nick Gunter) –  Austin Baze is a duo from the foothills of Western North Carolina and Greeneville, Tenn., carrying on their strong music heritage and deep rooted beliefs. They grew up influenced by generations of musicians in the Appalachian Mountains.  ” I remember when we sat around the porch, hill top, or just wherever…pickin and singing with all our family and friends. ” said Brian Buckner…..” We have been singing together since we were kids in church, and other venues in the later years. “adds Nick Gunter. The years have passed and now here they are; writing songs about life, love, and their experiences. They are excited to be back together in their element doing what they love. “We are working on a new project with our producer Dave Fowler of Dave Fowler Productions, and looking forward to sharing our music with all of you!!”

 

Dave Fowler: Nashville record producer, tour manager, and professional artist.  He has composed, arranged, and recorded many original songs along with producing records for a number of artists.  He was Dolly Parton’s tour manage and band coordinator from 2005 to 2009 and has managed Collin Raye. He has played bass guitar for more than 30 years and has toured with Lorrie Morgan, Tracy Lawrence, Rhett Akins, Dottie West, Edwin McCain, Cinderella, John Michal Montgomery, Chely Wright, Dolly Parton, Collin Raye, Joe Diffie and Mark Chesnut.

 

Jack Gavin – played drums for Charlie Daniels band for 15 years. He also played and tour managed Tanya Tucker for 10 years. He and Dave Fowler were also were the rhythm section for country artist Tracy Lawrence for 5 years.

 

Jason Roller – plays electric guitars. He has toured with Tracy Lawrence, Joe Diffie, Wynonna, Dave Mason, Dolly Parton and many others.

 

 

Michelle Leigh:

Edgy and honest, Michelle Leigh brings a no-holds barred approach to her writing and her music. The Southern Rock Uprising Records recording artist’s songwriting style can only be described as raw and honest. Her songs amplify real-life situations, real-life problems and real-life solutions.  She has crafted a sound and style that mixes Southern Rock (a traditionally male dominated genre) with Country and Pop elements. Michelle has toured with the “Young Guns of Country” and won the Charlotte Music Awards 2013 Women in Rock Showcase.  Michelle performs regularly throughout the region and most recently at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino.  She spends her time between her home in Marshall, North Carolina and Nashville, Tennessee.

 

Step Cousins:

A local group providing a pure mixture of past and present country, with a light alternative sense and a feel of something new. Their high energy show appeals to people of any age.  Step Cousins was formed in the fall of 2012, cultivating a sound all their own in their hometown of Greeneville. They have had many local accomplishments since their formation, including a first place finish in the Appalachian Fair youth talent show, a performance in American Downtown, Tusculum College’s tailgate series, Coffeehouse series and a slot in the Dogwood Park series.

1964 championship baseball team recognized

Members of the 1964 championship baseball team were the guests of honor at the April 11 Pioneer baseball game to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their memorable season.

Team members and their families enjoyed a reunion in one of the suites in Pioneer Stadium prior to the game and enjoyed the game from the suite.  The team members and family representatives were recognized on the field just prior to the game.

The 1964 baseball team was the Volunteer State Athletic Conference champion, the first time that a baseball team from Tusculum had topped the conference. The Pioneers won the title in a thriller with Carson-Newman College that went into extra innings. The game ended in the 12th after the Pioneers had loaded the bases and a single by Bill Gardner allowed Ed Rogers and Bob Lapsley to score.

Members of the baseball team applaud as Jim Rich is introduced to the crowd during the on-field recognition. At the far left is Steve Alexander, son of Dale Alexander, who coached the 1964 team. Joining Brenda Jeffers on the field were her grandson, Mathew Waybright. Alexander's grandon Stevie Alexander is at far right.

 

Visiting in the suite prior to the game are Joe Sipos '68, Jim Brown '66, Jim Rich '67 and Ray Collins '65.

Taking time to pose for a group shot are Collins, Brown, Sipos, Bill Gardner '69 and Brenda Jeffers, representing her late husband, Ed Jeffers '64. Gardner's letterman sweater and Sipos' cap are from 1964.

Dr. Nancy B. Moody, Tusculum's president, visited with the team members are their families, including Joe Sipos and his wife, Edie '68, who traveled from Delaware for the reunion. Sipos is wearing a letterman jacket that was made for him in 1964.

1964 team members and their family members greet the Pioneer baseball team prior to the game.

 

Theatre-at-Tusculum to present provocative drama ‘Twelve Angry Men’ May 2-4

Theatre-at-Tusculum will present the powerful and engaging drama “Twelve Angry Men” the last weekend of April and the first weekend of May.

The life of a young man hangs in the balance as the “twelve angry men” of the jury must decide whether he is guilty of murder in the play, which will be performed at 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, April 25-26 and May 2-3 in the Behan Arena Theatre in the lower level of the Annie Hogan Byrd Fine Arts Building (side entrance). Sunday matinee performances will be at 2 p.m. on April 27 and May 4.

“Twelve Angry Men” was originally a teleplay by Reginald Rose, which was later adapted to the stage and also became a critically acclaimed film featuring Henry Fonda. Rose’s original work reflects the time period in which it was written in that only men served on juries. Theatre-at-Tusculum will be performing an adaption of the play by Sherman L. Sergel, which provides for jurors of both genders.

Juror Three (Will Maddux) has to be restrained from Juror Eight (Paige Mengel) during this scene from Theatre-at-Tusuclum’s upcoming production “Twelve Angry Men.”

Those who are familiar with the film will find that the play does differ from the film in several points. For example, the film’s focus is preventing an injustice whereas the play’s emphasis is how people from diverse backgrounds come to a consensus, said Frank Mengel, director of the play. Mengel is the technical director for Tusculum College Arts Outreach and has directed such productions as “The Diary of Anne Frank” and “Dogg’s Hamlet” for Theatre-at-Tusculum in recent years.

When the play opens, the jurors are almost unanimous in a “guilty” vote, except for a single dissenter. As the jury discuss their views, individual biases and prejudices are revealed and seeds of doubt about the guilt of the accused man begin to grow.

Many familiar local actors will be portraying the jurors, who are not known by name but by their juror number, including Paige Mengel ’88, Brian Ricker ’10, Will Maddux, Parker Bunch, Angela Bride ’95 ’99, Sandy Nienabar, Margo Olmstead, Jeff Reese, Eva Griffin, Larry Bunton, Michael Fillers and Jeff Klepper. Tusculum student Zach Gass will portray the guard to the jury room.

The jury room is the scene of all the action of the play and the single set is being constructed by DeAundra Bowker, Bonnie Parks, Jacob Hoffman, Devon Suttles, Ashley Brooks, Andrew Herzig and Gary Mitchell. The stage manager is Suzanne Greene and Barbara Holt is the costume designer.

Admission for the play is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors 60 and over, and $5 for children 12 and under.

To make ticket reservations, please call Tusculum College Arts Outreach at 423-798-1620 or email jhollowell@tusculum.edu.

Theatre-at-Tusculum's production of "Twelve Angry Men" is an adaptation of the original, which includes both genders as members of the jury.

Check out the latest about your fellow alumni

 

 

 

 

’90s

Brenda Ottinger ’98 of Greeneville, TN, has been named system-level Principal-of-the-Year by the Greeneville School System. Ottinger is principal at Highland Elementary School and has 21 years experience as a teacher and principal.

 

 

 

Barbara Davis McGavock ’74 of Johnson City, TN, and wife of late Tusculum professor Dr. W. Donald McGavock, announces the birth of her first grandchild, Adaline May “Addie” DiCesare on January 2, 2014. She resides with her parents, Brandon and Kristen DiCesare in Rochester, NY.

 

 

 

’40s

Dr. Leland James “Jay” Sarrell Sr., ’47 of Blue Ridge,GA,  passed away on Oct. 18, 2013, at Erlanger Medical Center in Chattanooga.  Dr. Sarrell was a retired optometrist, who had practiced for 55 years. He served in the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II and was a lifetime member of the Fannin County VFW Post #6570. Dr. Sarrell was a past president of the Kiwanis Club, former Boy Scout Master, former police commissioner and served on county council. He was a member of the Church of Christ.

Natalie G. Poole, ’48 formerly of West Palm Beach passed away on Thursday, July 10, 2008 in Jacksonville, FL.

 

Glenn D. Renner ’48 of Greeneville, TN passed away unexpectedly on April 13, 2014. After earning a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, chemistry and physics from Tusculum, Mr. Renner earned a master’s degree in educational administration and statistics from the University of Tennessee. Mr. Renner was a veteran, having served in the U.S. Navy for three years. As an educator, he taught math and science at Greeneville High School and Ottway High School and taught sixth through eighth grade at DeBusk Elementary School. He also served as principal of Ottway High School and was a basketball coach at St. James High School. Mr. Renner worked in the insurance and real estate business for 21 years and operated the Brook-Glen Farm Supply feed store for 21 years, retiring in 1996. Active in the civic life of the community, Mr. Renner served as a Greene County Commissioner for seven years and was a state representative in the mid-1960s. He served on the Kinser Park Commission for about 28 years. He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church and a lifetime member of the Kiwanis Club.

“Betty” Irene Lintz Yates ’49 of Greeneville, TN, passed away March 25, 2014. She met her husband, Maurice M. Yates, Jr. ’49, as a student at Tusculum in the library. The library was the setting for many “study dates,” leading up to their marriage in April 1947. Mrs. Yates started teaching home economics to freshman girls in 1958 and later added chemistry instruction for juniors at Greeneville High School. Mrs. Yates was one of the teachers instrumental in forming the Greeneville-Greene County Teachers Association, an organization active in teachers’ affairs. She served as first president of the association. After 22 years with the Greeneville School System, she retired and further developed her keen interest in antiques as an antique consultant. She with her husband traveled extensively through the U.S., particularly east of the Mississippi River.

 

’50s

Donald Green ’54 of the Villages, FL, passed away on April 1, 2014. Mr. Green was an educator and college basketball coach and retired after 40 years of service to his students and ballplayers.  He was known for his passion for family, friends and great laughter. He enjoyed playing golf with his friends.

 

’60s

Carnell Graham Carter ’63 of Greeneville, TN, passed away Sept. 5, 2007. An educator, she began her teaching career in an one-room school and taught in the Greene County School System for 27 years including 22 years at DeBusk Elementyar School. She received the Greene County Teacher of the Year and the Tennessee District Teacher of the year in 1977. Mrs. Carter was a member of the Ottway United Methodist Church, the Tennessee Retired Teachers Association, Greene County Retired Teachers, Cross Anchor FCE, Ottway United Methodist Women and Ottway Ruritan, and the Grandmother’s Club.

 

’80s

Pamela York Buchanan ’83 of Morristown, TN, passed away on April 9, 2014, after a 15-year battle with cancer. She was a partner of Arrowhead Church.

 

’00s

Greta Jones-Taylor ’07 of Bristol, TN, passed away unexpectedly on February 3, 2014. Mrs. Jones-Taylor was a life-long resident of Bristol. She was employed at Helen’s Hallmark for more than 15 years and started Occasions By Greta, a napkin and special occasion imprinting business. She was also president of the Anderson Elementary School PTA. She was proud of her degree and the joy of her life was her daughter, Emma, according to her husband, Kevin. She went into labor with Emma on the last night of classes for her degree at Tusculum, he recalled.

 

Students and faculty recognized for achievements and service during annual Honors Convocation

Ashley Sarmiento was presented the President's Award by Dr. Melinda Dukes, vice president of academic affairs.

Student excellence in academics and service were recognized during Tusculum College’s annual Honors Convocation Thursday, April 24.

The two top honors for students presented by the College are the President’s Award and the Bruce G. Batts Award. Ashley Sarmiento of Dayton, Ohio, was presented the President’s Award and Jordan Ottinger of Newport, who was presented the Bruce G. Batts Award.

Students were also encouraged to find their passion and follow it by the Rev. Jonas Hayes, a 1999 graduate of Tusculum, who was guest speaker for the Honors

Jordan Ottinger is presented the Bruce Batts Award by Rachel Edens, director of the Center for Civic Advancement.

Convocation. Hayes, who is a Presbyterian pastor in Overland Park, Kan., received the Best Short Documentary honors at the 2013 Madrid International Film Festival as executive producer of the film, “Delta 180: Changing Lives in the Mississippi Delta.” The documentary tells the story of the after-school program for youth in Greenville, Miss., that was co-founded by Hayes.

President’s Award

The President’s Award is presented to the graduating senior who has contributed the most to the College and who has been the most outstanding achiever in the combined areas of academic work,

David Cooper receives the Alpha Chi Academic Excellence Award from Dr. Troy Goodale, assistant professor of political science.

athletics, campus leadership and personality. The selection is made on the basis of the student’s total four-year record at Tusculum.

Dr. Melinda Dukes, vice president of academic affairs at the college, presented the award to Sarmiento, who is majoring in mathematics and mathematics education.

“In her career at Tusculum College, she has been a stand out in the classroom and on the volleyball court,” Dukes said of Sarmiento. “She has dedicated herself to campus

Robert Arrowood receives the first Undergraduate Research Excellence in Psychology Award from Dr. Brian Pope, professor of psychology.

organizations and demonstrated leadership skills and commitment to service.”

Sarmiento has been a Preseason All-South Atlantic Conference First Team member, an AVCA All-Southeast Region honorable mention, an All-SAC second team, a Capital One Academic All-America Second Team member and a recipient of the highest honor bestowed to a league student-athlete, the South Atlantic Conference Presidents’ Award. She has also been named to the NCAA

Joseph Borden, left, and Britany Menken were recognized by Wayne Thomas, associate professor of English and chair of the Fine Arts Department, for winning the Curtis and Billie Owens Literary Prizes for 2014.

Southeast Regional All-Tournament Team.

In addition, she has been named to the SAC Commissioner’s Honor Roll, the Athletic Director’s Honor Roll, the Dean’s List, the President’s List and the Charles Oliver Gray Honors List. Sarmiento is a member of Tusculum’s Chapter of the Alpha Chi National Honor Society. She has served as president and vice president of the Pioneer Student Athlete Advisory Council. She has worked in support of Mentor for Kids and the Make-A-Wish 5K run as a mentor and an organizer. After graduation, Sarmiento has a position as a math teacher and a

McKayla Myers was presented the Outstanding Education Student Award from Dr. Peggy Goodson-Rochelle, assistant professor of education.

volleyball coach awaiting her in Williamson County, fulfilling one of life ambitions.

Sarmiento was also presented a Senior Honor Key Award in mathematics education 7-12. The Senior Honor Key Awards recognize students in for their capacities, special abilities, achievements and aptitude in their major field.

Batts Award

Presented in memory of a beloved educator at Tusculum who helped define the college’s civic arts curricular focus, the Bruce G. Batts Award is presented to a student

Vicki Sweeton received the Jean Hixon Memorial Award for the Northeast region from Hixon's sister and brother-in-law, Ann and James Hall.

who clearly demonstrates the qualities that reflect the civic arts ideals.

This year’s recipient, Jordan Ottinger, has served not only campus but the regional community through his activities through the Business Club and the Tusculum College Center for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship.

Ottinger, an accounting major with a minor in

Danielle Warren was presented the Jean Hixon Memorial Award for the Southeast region by Hixon's sister Ann Hall as her husband, James Hall, looks on.

general management, has excelled academically as part of the Tusculum College Honors Program and led the  Center for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship (CEDE), as well as the Help Me Help You program for small business development in the community. Ottinger has been an active member of the Tusculum College Business Club and has participated in Job Shadowing opportunities. He has been a member of the President’s Society and is a member of the Tusculum College Chapter of Alpha Chi National Honor Society.

During the Honors Convocation,

Addie Hancock was presented the E.H. Sargent Award in Science by Dr. Debra McGinn, associate professor of biology.

Ottinger was also presented the Honor’s Olympian Award, which is presented to a student who best exemplifies the ideals of the Tusculum College Honors Program through academic success, civic engagement and service to the community. The award is presented to the student in the Honors Program who has been most active on campus and in the community.

Ottinger was also recognized with the Walter R. Johnson Award, which is presented to the graduating senior determined most outstanding in business and economics studies, based on grade point average and academic achievement.

Student-Chosen Awards

John Zach Conlon received the Barnett, Conley and Davis Award in Natural Sciences and Mathematics.

Presented during the convocation were faculty, staff and community awards whose recipients were selected by student vote. Receiving the Outstanding Service to Students Award, a faculty honor, was Dr. David Key, assistant professor of history, to a standing ovation from his fellow faculty members, students, staff and others in attendance.

In presenting the award on behalf of the Greene County Partnership, local industrial leader Bob Leonard thanked not only Key, but all Tusculum faculty, for their efforts to further educational opportunities for their students. Dr.

Kayla Gillispie was presented the Doug Ratledge Environmental Science Scholarship by Dr. Richard Thompson, assistant professor of chemistry.

Key has taught courses in American history and in the Tusculum Commons program.  He has supported and encouraged students in undergraduate research and providing opportunities for these students to present their work at the Blue Ridge Undergraduate Research Conference. His has published two books “From Athens to Alabama: Readings in the Political Traditions of the West” and “Theodore Roosevelt: A Life and Legacy.”  He has also continued his research on the militia system in the United States.

Dr. Key received his doctorate from

The first ever Nursing Student of the Year Award was presented by Dr. Lois Ewen, dean of nursing, to Mindy Hirsch, Katrina Holder and Anjelica Bolden (from left).

the University of New Mexico after completing his dissertation on the Progressive Era in the Southwestern Territories.  He taught at the University of New Mexico and the University of Tennessee-Knoxville before coming to Tusculum in 2007.

The Staff Award was presented to Daniel Green, senior student life coordinator who also manages the residential

DeAundra Bowker was presented the Theatre Arts Award by Marilyn duBrisk, artist-in-residence and director of Arts Outreach.

program for Mastrapasqua Hall and the other apartments. In presenting the award, Student Government Association President Ryan Barker said that Green, “has enriched the lives of students, faculty and staff. He takes great pride in challenging students to address their own biases, misconceptions and ideologies of intolerance.”

As senior student life coordinator, Green implements and administers programs that contribute to the development of students’ cultural competency, multicultural appreciation, leadership development, academic success and civic engagement as well as

Martin Jorgensen was recognized with the TAHPERD Award by Suzanne Byrd, assistant professor of education.

builds community within residential life and promotes a climate of respect for diversity.

Barker also presented the Community Award, which is presented to an individual, organization or business which has made a significant contribution to the Tusculum campus community. This year’s recipient well known and respected local musician John Brown as long ties with Tusculum as a performer. In presenting the award, Barker noted that Brown decided several years ago to find ways to give back to the community, organizing the Dogwood Park summer concert

Brian Alexander was presented the NASPE Award by Byrd.

series in Greeneville. At Tusculum, Brown has been provided support to the College’s Band Program and has been instrumental in the return of the Old Oak Festival to campus as a coordinator of the performers on campus.

Academic Honors

Senior Honor Key Awards were presented to students who have earned a 3.25 grade point average or higher in their major, shown achievement and aptitude in the major and possess strong character.  The following are the award recipients and their degree programs:

Art and Design, Studio Art Concentration – Hilary Nowatzki;

Amanda Grempel was awarded the Pinnacle Award by Tom Stueber, assistant professor of athletic training.

Art and Design, Graphic Design Concentration – Jacenta Holtsclaw;

Athletic Training – David Montes

Biology  – Sara Howard and Jacob Norris;

Business Administration, Management Concentration – Cierra Ockstadt;

Digital Media – Jeff Roberts;

English, journalism and professional writing concentration – Jonathan Nash;

English, literature concentration – Angel West;

Environmental Science/Field Guide Naturalist – Kristen Lane;

General Management – Codie Fleming;

Students selected the Staff Award recipient, Daniel Green, left, for his work as a senior student life coordinator. The award was presented by Student Government Association President Ryan Barker.

History – Lindsay Firster;

Interdisciplinary Studies K-6 – Jennifer Rossiter;

Interdisciplinary Studies PreK-3 – Shaquita Harris;

Interdisciplinary Studies 4-8: Ona Elisha Wilder;

Management Accounting – Sarah Clabo;

Mathematics – Jamie L. Rossman;

Mathematics, computer science concentration –John Zach Conlon;

Students selected John Brown, left, for the Community Award, which was presented by Ryan Barker.

Museum Studies – Emily Shipsey;

Physical Education – Kim Brown;

Political Science – Jarrod Cupp;

Psychology – Robert Arrowood;

Sport Management – Ryan Byars and

Sports Science – Katelyn Brennan.

Recognized as Honor Students for having the highest grade point average of their class were:

seniors – Robert Arrowood, Ryan Byars, Sarah Clabo and Martin Jorgensen;

juniors –  David Cooper, Ash

Felicia Waters was received the Service-Learning Award from Rachel Edens, director of the Center for Civic Advancement.

Dorrbecker, Madilyn Elliott, Leif Ratliff and Lukas Winkelmann;

sophomores – Elizabeth Coberly, Samuel Davis, Calley Lawson, Zachary Shirah, Britney Turner and Nicholas Wasylyk, and

freshman – Sarah Baker, Andrea Bowles, Callie Casteel, Eliza Davis, Hunter Foreman, Rachel Garnett, Kelli McCalla, Jalesa Perkins, Chesley Reed, Jonathan Spicher and Blake Tallman.

Senior members of the Alpha Chi National Honor Society were also recognized. Upperclassmen ranked in the top 10 percent academically of their classmates are invited to join the honor society. Recognized were:

Maria Nesbitt was presented the Bonner Leaders Program Award by Eden..

Robert Arrowood,

Kim Brown,

Ryan Byars

Sarah Clabo

Codie Fleming

Addie Hancock

Pamela Keen

Kristen Lane

McKayla Myers

Jonathan Nash

Hilary Nowatzki

Cierra Ockstadt

Theo Oing

Jordan Ottinger

Leneice Rice

Jennifer Rossiter

Ashley Sarmiento

Michael Scott

Destini Wingerter

The Alpha Chi Academic Excellence Award, which honors the highest academically ranked member of the junior class, was presented to David Cooper.

Students inducted in the Tusculum College chapter of the Psi Chi psychology honor society were recognized. They include Victoria Hill, Zoe Holcombe, Bailey Lawson, Hannah Lefler, Tiffany Rednour and Brianna Werder, who are students in the Residential program. Students from the Graduate and Professional Studies program inducted included Nyki Britton, Amanda Brooks, Sara Cedillo, Tara A. Cox, Tracy M. Ealy, Lori Hull, Toni Kingerly, Tracy Vandiver and Jacquelyn Waddell.

Robert Arrowood was presented the Undergraduate Research Excellence in Psychology Award. This new award recognizes a student who has completed a research project and presented it in a public forum. Arrowood has completed three research projects, presented at two conferences and has had his work accepted for publication in Modern Psychological Studies, a journal showcasing the work of undergraduate psychology students across the country.

Students who were chosen for the 2014 Curtis and Billie Owens Literary Prizes were honored. Students submit original, creative works in the annual writing competition. Joseph Borden was selected as the award winner in the poetry, scriptwriting and fiction categories. Britany Menken was chosen as award winner in the nonfiction category.

The Dr. Shirley Beck Award for an outstanding Master of Arts in Education major was presented to Kelley Adkins.

The Outstanding Education Student Award was presented to McKayla Myers.

Vicki Sweeton and Danielle Warren were presented the Jean Hixon Memorial Award, named in honor of a long-time member of the Graduate and Professional Studies staff. Hixon’s sister Anne Hall and her husband, James Hall, presented the award. The award recipients are chosen by Tusculum faculty as students who have demonstrated academic achievement with a GPA of 3.50 or better and dedicated community service.

The E.H. Sargent Award in Science was presented to Addie Hancock. In choosing the recipient, science faculty members consider overall grade point average, total hours in science and variety of areas covered in the sciences.

The Barnett, Conley and Davis Award in Natural Sciences and Mathematics was presented to John Zach Conlon as a graduating senior outstanding in the combined fields of natural sciences and mathematics. The award is based on overall GPA, science and math GPA, depth of interest in science and math and academic service to the college such as tutoring and/or research.

Kayla Gillispie was the recipient of the Doug Ratledge Environmental Science Scholarship. The scholarship is awarded to an outstanding student majoring in environmental science or the field guide naturalist program.

Three students were recognized for the new “Nursing Student of the Year” award, Anjelica Bolden, Mindy Hirsch and Katrina Holder. The award recognizes a student who demonstrates high moral values, communicates and acts with integrity, provides safe and effective nursing care, promotes and practices life-long learning, demonstrates a commitment and passion for the practice of nursing, demonstrates high professional standards of conduct and has demonstrated academic excellence.

The Theatre Award was given to DeAundra Bowker, who is serving as shop foreman for the theater program this year. She has performed on stage as well as worked backstage in set construction, lighting and sound.

The Tennessee Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance Outstanding Major Award is selected by the physical education faculty and was awarded to Martin Jorgensen.

The National Association for Sport and Physical Education Award was presented to Brian Alexander.

The Pinnacle Award for highest scores on annual comprehensive examinations taken by athletic training education majors was presented to Amanda Grempel.

Service Awards

The Service-Learning Award was presented to Felicia Waters. The award is presented to a student who has shown excellence in a service-learning class by performing service beyond the norm and exhibits sound reasoning and reflection while maintaining enthusiastic and positive attitude and showing creativity, self-direction and respect for diversity.

The Bonner Leaders Program Award was presented to Maria Nesbitt. The award is presented to a student within the Bonner Leaders Program, who has exhibited exemplary long-term dedication to the six keys of the program – community building, civic engagement, diversity, international perspective, social justice and spiritual exploration.

Residential, GPS students named to fall 2013 semester Dean’s List

Tusculum College students in bachelor degree programs are recognized for their academic achievement through three academic honors lists.

These honors lists include the Dean’s List, which  includes full-time students who have earned a 3.5 grade point average or higher during a semester.

The President’s List includes those students who have earned a 4.0 grade point average during the semester. These students are also included on the Dean’s List.

The Charles Oliver Gray Scholars List recognizes students who have been named to the Dean’s List for two or more consecutive semesters.

As a result of changes in class scheduling, it has become possible to calculate honors for students in the Graduate and Professional Studies program on the same timeline as those calculated for students in the Residential Program.  The first honors lists for Graduate and Professional Studies students has been compiled for the fall 2013 semester and is listed below with the Residential College honors lists.

Below are the listings for the fall 2013 Dean’s List. Students named to the President’s List are denoted with an *. Those who are listed on the Charles Oliver Gray Scholars List are noted with a +.

Residential

James Lee Abbott

Cynthia Paige Adkins

Brian J. Alexander +

Erika L. Allison +

Ashley Nicole Anderson

Benjamin A. Arnold +

Cheyene Leigh Arnold *

Robert Britton Arrowood +*

Grace Ann Rose Arthur +

Nicole C. Arthur +

Victoria Ashley

Juan Avendano Granda

Sarah Ann Baker *

Kate Ann Barford +*

Ryan Matthew Barker +

Toni Lyn Bates

Miranda Leeann Beeler +

Hannah Marie Berling +

Maggie Leigh Bernabei +

Thomas James Bitner +

Taylor R. Boone +

Sarah Lynn Bouley

Deaundra Pauline Bowker +

Mercedes L. Boyd +

Katelyn Marie Brennan +*

Robert Herchell Bridges

Tyler Lane Bright +

Samantha Paige Brinson

Spencer Darris Brothers

Kim Caroline Brown +

Alison Mae Buck +

Tayler Beth Burchfield

Christopher Diquone Burns

Justin Burnworth +

Lawson Henry Burrow +

Ryan James Byars +*

Shelbi Breanne Cameron

Katie Elisabeth Capel +

Zachery Allen Carlson

Ethan Wayne Carpenter

Sarah M. Clabo +*

Elizabeth Gail Coberly *

Denise Nicole Coffey

John Zach Conlon +

West Thomas Connor

Bridget Conte +

David W. Cooper +*

Lydia D. Couch +

Jacob William Countiss

Tripper Denby Crisson

Mariesha Fredricka Crocker +

Emily Lynne Cross

Alec Cunningham +

Ricardo Alexandre Rodr Da Silva *

Eliza Lucille Davis

Samuel George Davis +*

Jodi Arlene Derosia *

Ashleigh Rose Dorrbecker +*

Samantha M Durham

Jonathan Alexander Edens

Madilyn Joyce Elliott +

Zackery Tres Elliott

Meagan Olivia Ellis

Joseph Elphingstone +*

Kasey Blake Fawbush

Hettige Joseph Michael Ruksha Fernando +

Alisha Marie Fillers +

Lia Theresa Fiore

Lindsay Nicole Firster

Thomas Codie Fleming +

Nicholas Larry Forsberg +

Kelsey Lynae Freeman

Jennifer Michelle Frost *

Joshua D Fuller

Paisley Paige Fultz +

Nicole Marie Fyffe +

Kimberly Elisabeth Gallentine +*

Kaela MacKenzie Gardner +

Rachel Eileen Garnett

Zachary Joel Gass

Kayla Leigh Gillispie

Coleman Thomas Glick

Ashley Danielle Gregg +*

Jennifer Leann Gregg

Amanda Marie Grempel +

Shannon Mae Grimes +

Courtney Danielle Hackney +

Jessica Laurren Hairston

Allison Marie Hall

Jama Nichole Hammontree +

Macey Leann Hance

Addie M. Hancock +*

Edward Oliver Moore Hancock +

Tony L. Hannah

Ashton Marie Hardeman +

Shaquita Renee Harris +

Tamara Denee Harris +

Michala Katherine Hash

Megan K Hasse +

Mamie Britt Hassell

Victoria Emily Hayes

James Owen Hensley +*

Dameon Franz Herring

Victoria Lael Hill

Zoe Elizabeth Holcomb +

Sarah Elizabeth Holly +

Jacenta Chyeata Holtsclaw +

Cathleen Marie Hopson

Katherine Grace Hutchinson +

Addison Lawrence Ingram +

George F. Jackson

Elizabeth Melissa Marie Johnson +

Casey Leigh Jones *

Evan Nathaniel Jones

Martin Dan Jorgensen +*

Devon Aliva Justice

Stacie Marie Justis +*

Kourtney Marie Kavic +

Adrienne Martine Kaye +

Kristen C. Kelley

Staci Nicole Knipp +*

Jessica Renea Koenig

Pablo Laguna +

Cyrus Jackson Lampley

John Landers +

Zachary Aaron Lane

Calley B. Lawson +*

Lindsey Danielle Lewis +

Tanner Joseph Maloof

Miriah Elizabeth Martin *

Russell Neal Matthews +

Jennifer Dawn Mayo

Kelli Lynn McCalla *

Courtney McDevitt

Kristen Renee McMillion +

Zaily Rodesly Mejia

Jacob Edward Mendenhall

Colleen Elizabeth Moloney +

James Curtis Moneyhun +

David Marcelo Montes +

AAliyah Jada Montgomery

Amy Leigh Morford +

Pamela Kay Morong

McKayla Grace Myers +*

Jonathan Michael Nash +*

Amy Michelle Neltner +*

Kylee Jordan Nolan +

Jacob Amiel Norris

David Nunez

Cierra R. Ockstadt +

Theodore C. Oing +

Victor Olin +

Matthew Alan Olson +

Erin Christian Osborne

Jordan Lynn Ottinger +

Robert Clayton Owens

Bonnie Joy Parks +

Ross Gregory Parsons

Shaveen Perera +

John Perrucci

Taira Nichole Peters

Matthew Ralph Pierce +

Roberto Pimentel

Nicolas Planchard *

Cody Scott Poarch

Bailee Lynn Price

Erica K. Ramsey

Haylee Lashay Ramsey

Leif B. Ratliff +*

Casey Dalton Reagan

Tiffany L. Rednour +

Chelsey Brooke Reed *

Anna Marie Louise Rice

Leneice L. Rice +

Shana Renea Dawn Rinderle

Allyson Kathleen Rines *

Brandon Lawrence Robinson

Nicholas Bryan Rodriguez

Jennifer P. Rossiter +

Jamie L. Rossman +*

Ashley Nicole Sarmiento +

Norman Cody Sauceman +*

Drew Henry Schreder

Jeffery Donovan Scott

Leon Seiz

Zachary Allen Self +

David Braswell Serodino

Tynan L. Shadle +

Emily Grace Shipsey +

Zachary S. Shirah *

David Felix Siegle *

Samantha Renee Silver

Jessyca Regina Simerly

Torrey Garth Slaven +

Christopher John Smith

John James Paul Smith

Joshua W Smith

Paige Nicole Sneed

Jonathan Spicher *

Latisha Nichole Stover

Kaytlin N. Stroinski +

Walter B. Swaggerty

Jose Maria Talegon Guerrero

Ashley Rapheal Thurman

Darian Dale Tipton

Kayla B. Tipton +

Breanna Lynn Tolliver

John Robert Topoleski

Britney Nicole Turner +

Kassandra Marie Voelker +

Samantha Jean Vogt *

Alexandria Robin-Jean Walker

Nicholas Alexander Wasylyk +*

Emily Christine Waters

Christopher Glenn Weems

Brianna Michelle Werder

Angel E. West +*

Carly Leeanne White

Timothy Dwight Whitley

Andrea Len Wilcox

Ona Elisha Lynn Wilder

Marissa J. Williams +*

Zachary James Williams

Carolyn Elizabeth Williamson +

Destini Shea Wingerter +

Jonas Burkhardt Siegfried Winkelmann

Lukas Eiko Winkelmann +*

Erica Denise Worrell +

Elizabeth Ann Kathryn Wright +*

Rebecca L. Wyatt

Rebecca Sue Wynne

 

Graduate and Professional Studies

Margot Elizabeth Abbott

Janet De la Caridad Acosta*

Natalia Acosta

Brett Michael Adams

Jenny Lynn Allen

Melissa Ann Alsip

Lisa Nachelle Anderson

Tonya L. Andrew

Zoe-Elizabeth Andrews*

Kellie Marie Armstrong

Rena Belle Arwood

Michelle M. Autry

Steven Leighton Ayers*

Zachary Adel Badawi

Jason Baker

Karen Lynne Baker*

Cassandra Lee Bale

Rebecca Sue Barbee*

Ashley Diane Barger

Robin Jean Barnett*

Trina Jean Barrett

John Carroll Bates

Melissa Anne Batson

Christine M Bealer

Morgan Leschae Beckler

Gregory Dale Belcher

Annette Marie Bell*

Brittney Sue Bellars

Heather Cecelia Benevento

Bryant Benitez

Shelly Louise Biddinger

Aretha Paige Blizzard

Lisa Renea Boshears

Donna Goodman Bowman

Fredrick Eugene Brabson

Carrie Bradley*

Kathryn Elizabeth Branam

Deanna Carol Branham

Ashton Brannon

David M Breeden*

Stephanie Michelle Brennan*

Tammy Yvonne Brewer*

Allysha Lindsay Rebecca Brinegar

Nykaya Lea Britton

James Derek Brock*

Amanda Day Brooks

Terry Dean Brooks*

Leah Andrea Bryan

Victoria Jacqueline Bryant

Stephen Wayne Buchanan*

Rochelle L. Buck

Lillie Ann Bullard

Linda Jean Burchett*

Lara Gail Burchfield*

Peggy Jill Burgner

Samuel Lee Burke

Linda Gail Burton*

James Allen Butler

Carrie Chae Cagle*

Kala Suzanne Caldwell*

Jeffrey David Campbell*

Jesse James Campbell*

Misty Selena Campbell

Dustin Michael Cansler

Darla Louise Carr

Emily Beth Carroll

Eric Christopher Carter

Heather Lynn Carty

Ashley Carver

Sarah Marie Cedillo

Erika Marie Chamberlin*

Yvonne Sue Champlin

Brent Eugene Chapman

Reginald Jermaine Chatman

Floyd Alden Cheyne

Adam Wayne Clair

Sabrina Darlene Clark

Tammy Denise Clark

Katie Lee Clendenen

Candace Lee Cody

Mandy Lachelle Colburn

Katie Lee Cole*

Linda Darlene Coleman

Kody Elizabeth Collingsworth*

Jessica Leann Collins

Amber Lawson Cooper*

Robert Dewayne Cowden

Tresa Rae Cowell*

David Michael Cox*

Lacci Nicole Cox

Michael Adam Cox

Stephanie Lynn Cox*

Tara A. Cox

Wendy Ann Cox

Jeremy Crenshaw

Laura Elizabeth Cribley*

Timothy Scott Croft*

Casey Renea Cummings*

Shani Lee Cutler*

Susan Kaye Cutshall

Kristen Marie Dalton

Lindsey Nicole Daniels

Kristy Michelle Daugherty

Sara Elizabeth Daugherty

Jamie Davenport

Heather D. Davis

Kelly Frances Davis

Brian Joseph Decker

Jamie Elizabeth Depriest

Kelsey Danielle Dockery

Shani Douthat

Jessica L. Drinnon*

Stanley Edward Drozdowski

Carolyn Sue Dudek

Christina Marie Dugger

Amber Christine Duke*

Matthew Shane Dyer

Tracy Michelle Ealey

Melanie Ann Edwards

Emily Rebekah Elkins

Tabitha B. Ellenburg

Beth Nicole Ellison

Stormi Heather Estep

Rockford Evan Estes

Donna Carol Ewing

Maria Rose Farnham*

Dwight John Faso

Danielle Kelley Faulkner

Lisa Josephine Feezell

Hayley Elizabeth Fields

April Suzanne Floyd

Amy Laurel Foreman*

Rachael Beth Foust

Michilene M. Francois

Jennifer Leanne Fudem

Sharon Elizabeth Galford*

Marty Beth Gamble

Stacy Lynn Gibson

Teresa Patricia Ann Gilland*

Haley Lynn Glandon

David Allen Glasscock

Mendy Lynn Goss

Trisha Lear Gossett*

Tyler J Govert

Heather Elaine Greene

Kristy Gail Greene*

Emily Greenier*

Christian Grumbach

Debra A. Hall

Michael Harry Hall*

Laurie Denise Hannah

Tracy Hardiman

Jeffrey Lee Harig

Charles Leffie Harmon

Ronda Kay Harrell

Kelly Harrison*

Cecil Leroy Hartline Jr.

Christopher Joel Hartwell

Karen Jane Hatfield

Christina Renee Hayes*

Kimberly Joann Hayes

Lindsey Brooke Hayes

Valerie Leeann Heater*

Todd Raymond Henrich

Robin H. Herbert

Amy Denise Hettmansberger

Richard Tyler Hill*

Timothy Andrew Hill

Angela Denise Hilton*

Traci Leann Hodges

Maggie Danielle Holbert

Zachary Hunter Holcombe

Steven Chadwick Holder

Tim Holseberg

Todd Hopkins

Joseph Timothy Houser

Rachael Jeanette Howerton

Cathy Ann Huff

Adam Nicholas Hughes

Matthew James Hughes

Lori A. Hull*

Adam Darren Hunley*

Gregory Mitchell Hurd*

Steven Jerry Hutson*

Jason Michael Hykle

Chanc Milton Jackson

Charlotte Nicole Jackson*

Rachel Akiko James

Sarah Ellen Jeffers

Kendra Danielle Jennings

Barbara Ann Johnson*

Eric Barton Johnson*

Sarah Lynn Johnson

Shonda Lynn Johnson

Tammy Renee Johnson

Valerie Marie Johnson

Billie Jean Jones

Frankie Kay Jones*

Tammy Louise Jones

Will Garrett Jones

Kerri A. Keaton

Steven James Kelley

Taylor Brooks Kelley

Sarah Kenny*

Gwendolyn Dee Kessinger

Renee Eileen Khan

William Thomas Kidwell

Melanie R Kimbrough

Justin Marc King

Toni Michelle Kingery

Amanda Caroline Kite

Jessica Michelle Kreis

Pamela Christine Lamb

Gregory Allen Lambert

Daniel Quentin Lane

Jennifer Lane

Kandi M. Lantz

James Adam Large

Bryan Christopher Larkins*

Lauren Nicole Lawson

Jason Ledford

Gera Michele Lee

Stephanie Nicole Lee

Margaret Lynn Lemasters*

Lina Dawn Leonard

Tracy Marie Leonard

Damon John Lerchen*

Gordon Anthony Lewis

Dale Allen Linkous

Cynthia A. Little

Michael Warren Lucas*

Yancey Britte Lynch*

Rebecca Ann Malone

Jennifer Anne Mann

Michaela Anne Maples

Ashley Nicole Marshall

Whitney Brianna Marshall

David Carson Mays

Betsy Ann McClain

Ryan Pete McCord*

Scott Douglas McGaha*

Wendy Ann McKinney

Garrett Meek

Patricia Ann Melton

Dana Ruth Mihovch

Erica Miller

William Kyle Mincey

Joseph Christopher Moffitt

George Edward Moles

John Wellington Montjoy

Jessica Lynne Moore

Jessica Paige Morgan*

David Wayne Morris

Tia Moua

Steven Donald Mull

Carla Mae Nelson*

John Timothy Nelson

Charles John Nicolls

Jody Lynn Nix

Robbie Caroll Nolan

Chelsea Lynn Norton

Lisa Blackburn Ogle*

Ryan Clifford Ogle*

Tiffany Nichole Ogle

Lori Ann Olds*

Sharon Osborne

Jacqueline M O’Toole*

Sherry Lynn Ottem

Misty Ann Owens

Kelly Lynn Ownby*

Laurence James Palais

Anthony Neal Palmer

Ashley Dawn Palmer*

Mindy Ann Palmer*

Frances Melissa Patterson

Ashley Ann Paulson

Angela Dale Paxton

Christina Louise Paxton

Courtney Leann Payne*

Christopher Wayne Penley*

Perna Lou Perkins

Randall Steven Pettiford

Patricia Ann Polfus

Tommy Lee Price

Nancy Denise Proske

Marissa Lynne Pullins

Amber Brooke Pyle

Heather Louise Raffield

Roe B Rainey

Shannon Ray Rasnick

Jessica Leigh Raxter*

Jennifer Renee Reaves*

Melissa Ann Reed

Joshua Michael Reeves

Andrea Shay Reidy

April Danielle Renner

Jeanna Edington Reynolds*

Sheena Leigh Reynolds

William Elliot Reynolds

Edie Michelle Rhoads

Jessica Katherine Rice

Cathy Renee Rich*

Craig Eugene Richesin

Kendra Irene Rickard

Tammy Annette Ricker*

Susanne Michelle Rinkel

William Scott Ritter

Mark Timothy Roberts

Lindsay Robinson

April Danielle Rodriguez

Deborah Lynn Rolen*

Regina Sue Rose

Ashley Nicole Ross

Krystal Dawn Ross

Barbara Lynn Rowntree*

Evan Joseph Rudd

Maria Antonia Salami Tobuasiche

Anna Marie Sams

Regina Starr Sandidge

Joseph Christian Satterfield*

Natalie Ruth Saunders

Mark Thomas Schotters

Steven Douglas Scott

Jessica Nicole Seals

Kent Jamison Settlemyer

Justin Grant Sewell

Kristi Leigh Seymour

William Robert Sharp

Deanna Dolores Sheffey

Heather K. Shelton

Stephen Grant Sherrod*

Diana M Showman

Brandon Lloyd Sizemore

Amanda Nordman Smith

David Grant Smith

Jamie Dee Smith

Johnny Max Smith*

Joshua Cori Smith

Megan Elizabeth Smith

Misti Nicole Smith

Monica L Smith

Robin Norene Smith

Stacie Lorene Smith*

Stephanie Leeann Snyder

Adam Tyler Solomon

Michele Dorothy Somich*

Jamie Wayne Spafford

Angela Carol Stevens

Tonyia Audreckia Stewart

Paula Renee Stokes

Evelyn Rose Stone

David Eric Stott

Amanda Carroll Strange

Larry Bruce Stroud

Kendall John Strumpf

Renea Danielle Styles

Amber Summerall

Elizabeth Lauren Summerall*

Christopher Randall Sutton

Vicki Sweeton*

Kimberly Lynn Tacker*

Russell Talley

Timothy Scott Taubert

Joshua John Taylor

Michelle Leigh Templin

Henrietta Annette Thompson

Jennifer Leann Tidwell

Shalee Ann Tipton*

Eric Jack Tobler*

Miranda Lin Tobler*

Rachel Gwen Todd*

Thomas Brock Toomey

Laura Nicole Touton

Nessa Kay Trentham

Charles Lester Tritt*

Carla Catina Turner

Lauren Michelle Turner

Jenny Rebecca Turpin

Scott Alexander Turpin

Russell James Vandermeeden

Tracy Nicole Vandiver*

Ricky Glenn Varney

Jacquelyn Clintina Waddell*

Lisa Ann Waddell*

Mary Beth Walker

Lauren Victoria Wallace

Shalynn Lee Wallace

Christina Nicole Walton*

Brian Glenn Watkins

Carrie Jane Watts*

Lindsey Nichole Watts*

Norman Weathersby*

Tiffany MacHelle Webb

Madison Nicole Weems

Monica Pauline Whaley

Brendan Phillip Whelan*

Amanda Nichol Whitehead*

Cara Sue Whitson

Brooke Danielle Wilhoit

Edward Keith Williams

Jennifer Williams

Amanda Dorene Willis

Dylan Gabe Willis

Vanessa Gail Willis

Misty Claudette Windle

Jennifer Lanier Winkler

Travis James Wright

Zackary Noah Wright*

Amy Marie Yarber

Stella Coleen Yeary*

 

 

 

Voting continuing to help Tusculum qualify for $5,000 grant

Your vote is needed! First Tennessee’s 150 Days of Giving continues and Tusculum College is seeking to be one of the recipients of one of the $5,000 grants that are being awarded as part of the event.

To commemorate First Tennessee’s 150th anniversary and to  celebrate its long tradition of serving communities, the First Tennessee Foundation is giving away $5,000 to a different nonprofit every day for 150 days as part of its “150 Days of Giving.”

To help Tusculum College be one of the 150 non-profits to receive a grant, All you have to do is vote! Please vote each day throughout the 150 Days of Giving. You will be able to vote for up to ten different nonprofits a day from any device at www.150DaysofGiving.com once a day until Tusculum wins or the 150 days ends.

Winners are announced daily at www.firsttennesseefoundation.com, and you can join the conversation using #FTB150.

Tusculum College is happy to celebrate with First Tennessee and is honored to be among the nonprofits eligible to participate in “150 Days of Giving.”

Old Oak Festival to feature art exhibit, readings, writing workshops, acoustic jam session

Fine arts will be a focus of the Old Oak Festival this weekend at Tusculum College with the art gallery exhibit, literary readings, workshops for young writers and an acoustic jam session.

“Under the Old Oak,” an exhibit featuring selections from the Tusculum College Print Collection, will be open 4 – 6 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, at the Allison Gallery in the Rankin House on campus (located behind Three Blind Mice).

The exhibit features selections from some of the best known contemporary printmakers in the world, such as Gabor Peterdi, Peter Milton, Leonard Baskin, Harvey Breverman, Misch Kohn, Frank Eckmair, Frederico Castellon, Dame Elizabeth Frink and Stanley William Hayter. Art professor Clem Allison compiled the collection of prints during his tenure at the college. Most were printed by small private English presses working with the artists, and the edition sizes were typically less than 300. The prints were rediscovered in the college’s printmaking studio by Dr. Deborah Bryan, associate professor of art, and then cataloged. A closing reception will be held from 4 – 6 p.m. on Saturday.

Works by well-known contemporary printmakers are on display at the Allison Gallery on the Tusculum College campus. Above are excerpts from Harvey Breverman’s “Dubious Honor III,” Al Park’s “Chambered Nautilus” and Leonard Baskin’s “Walt Whitman.”

On Thursday at 7 p.m. in the Shulman Cente Atruim, Wayne Lee Thomas, chair of the Fine Arts Department and associate professor of English, will read from his novel-in-progress, “Birth of the Okefenokees,” for which he won the 2014 Baltic Writing Residency. Thomas, who serves as coordinator of the creative writing program and editor of The Tusculum Review, writes and publishes fiction, plays and essays.

Joining Thomas will be Joseph Borden, senior creative writing major at Tusculum from Lyles. Borden is the winner of this year’s Curtis Owens Literary Awards for poetry, fiction and script writing.

Poet Richard Greenfield will be featured at a reading at 4 p.m. on Friday in the Shulman Center Atrium. Greenfield, who taught in the English Department at Tusculum from 2005-08, is the author of two poetry collections, “A Carnage in the Lovetrees” and “Tracer.” Greenfield, who is a former editor of The Tusculum Review, now teaches creative writing at New Mexico State University. He will be joined by Britany Menken, a senior creative writing major from Maryville. Menken is this year’s Curtis Owens Literary Award winner for non-fiction.

A number of local and regional writers, including Barry Blair, Emory Rhea Raxter, Joe Tennis, Keith Bartlett, Matilda Green and Peggy Dorris, will be at the festival, located in the Pioneer Arena lobby inside Niswonger Commons.

Two workshops for young writers will be held on Friday morning from 9 – 11 in the Hurley Room, which is inside the cafeteria in the Niswonger Commons. A flash fiction workshop will be conducted by Jan Matthews, visiting assistant professor of English. Clay Matthews, assistant professor of English, will lead a contemporary poetry workshop.

On Saturday evening at about 6:30, an acoustic music jam is scheduled in the atrium in the Shulman Center. Students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to bring their acoustic instruments for the informal jam session.

The 2014 Old Oak Festival will feature fine arts and crafts from more than 80 vendors as the revived festival makes its return to the Tusculum College campus on April 25-27. The arts and music festival will span three days and will feature something for everyone including liuve music, art, theater and creative writing, as well as gallery and museum exhibits.

Museum exhibit opening reception, lantern tour part of Old Oak Festival

An opening reception will be held this weekend for the new “Reaper: Nettie Fowler McCormick and the Machine that Built Tusculum College” exhibit at the President Andrew Johnson Museum and Library during the Old Oak Festival.

The reception for a new exhibit, a lantern tour and “Pickin’ at the Doaks” are among the events occurring at the Museums of Tusculum College during the Old Oak Festival on campus this weekend.

A new exhibit, “Reaper: Nettie Fowler McCormick and the Machine that Built Tusculum College,” will celebrate its opening with a reception at the President Andrew Johnson Museum and Library from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Friday, April 25, and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 26.

While Nettie Fowler McCormick’s donations to Tusculum College have been well documented, the new exhibit explores the machine upon which the McCormicks built their fortune. Museum Studies students and Dr. Peter Noll, assistant professor of public history and museum studies, have created this exhibit to describe the McCormick mechanical reaper and the changes wrought in farming and manufacturing ensuing from the mechanical harvest. The exhibit also explores the context through which Mrs. McCormick viewed her philanthropic mission.

Both the Doak House Museum and the President Andrew Johnson Museum will be open for tours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday.

The museums will host at lantern tour of the Tusculum Historic District on campus from 4:30 – 6 p.m. on Saturday. Those wishing to take the tour are asked to check in at the Doak House for a tour map and instructions. Costumed interpreters will be stationed at each of the 10 structures on campus that make up the historic district. Visitors may take the tour at their own pace and visit the stops in any order. There is no charge for the tour, but donations are appreciated.

On Friday night, the Doak House will host the monthly “Pickin’ at the Doaks” traditional jam session.  A music stage will be set up at the Doak House on Saturday when Carson Peters will perform from noon until 1 p.m. and Lonesome Pine will perform from 1 – 2 p.m.

The museums will also have a booth with children’s activities in the children’s area from 10 a.m. to 3 .m. on Saturday.

The Doak House Museum and the President Andrew Johnson Museum and Library are operated by the Department of Museum Program and Studies of Tusculum College. In addition to the museums, the department is responsible for the College Archives and offers one of the few undergraduate Museum Studies degree programs in the country. The two museums are also part of the National Historic District on the Tusculum College campus. Follow the museums on Facebook and Twitter to learn the latest news and upcoming events or visit its Web site at www.tusculum.edu/museums to learn more about the variety of programs offered at the museums.

Old Oak Festival to feature fine arts and crafts, music and more, April 25-27

The 2014 Old Oak Festival will feature fine arts and crafts from more than 80 vendors as the revived festival makes its return to the Tusculum College campus on April 25-27.

The arts and music festival will span three days and will feature something for everyone including music, art, theater and creative writing, as well as gallery and museum exhibits.

The juried arts and crafts show will feature more than 80 vendors and will offer everything from watercolor painting to handmade quilts to stained glass.

“Visitors will have a wide variety of items to choose from, including an assortment of handmade jewelry and wood crafts, chainmail jewelry by Marci Million, paper-mache sculptures by Fran Church, candle accessories by W & J Scents and wind chimes. Demonstrations will also be conducted on pottery, blacksmithing and cooking,” said David Price, director of music at Tusculum College and festival coordinator.

A parade, hands-on activities, impromptu performances and other surprises are planned throughout the festival. A new event will be the opportunity to step up and test your conducting skills. The Tusculum College concert band will be set up on Saturday afternoon from 1-1:20 p.m. and will play for any conductor willing to try his or her hand at directing the musicians.

At 2 p.m. on Saturday, there will be pizza dough tossing lessons, and local celebrity chef Jan Charles will be conducting a cooking workshop at 3 p.m. in Chalmers Conference Center. She will be providing tips on cooking high-quality family meals on a fixed budget.

The festival will also feature a number of local and regional writers, including Barry Blair, Emory Rhea Raxter, Joe Tennis, Keith Bartlett, Matilda Green and Peggy Dorris. There will be two literary readings during the festival. The first will feature Wayne Lee Thomas, associate professor of English and chair of the Fine Arts Department at Tusculum College. Joining Thomas on the Thursday evening program will be Joseph Borden, senior creative writing major at Tusculum from Lyles. The event will begin at 7 p.m. and will be held at the Shulman Center. Borden is the winner of this year’s Curtis Owens Literary Awards for poetry, fiction and script writing.

On Friday, April 25, at 4 p.m., poet Richard Greenfield will be the featured reader. He will be joined by Britany Menken, a senior creative writing major from Maryville. Menken is this year’s Curtis Owens Literary Award winner for non-fiction.

In addition to artist vendors and music performances throughout the day on Friday and Saturday, there will be three performances during the festival of “Twelve Angry Men,” presented by Theatre-at-Tusculum under the direction of Frank Mengel, the technical director of the Arts Outreach program. Show times are Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.

Performances will be held in the Behan Arena Theatre in the Annie Hogan Byrd Fine Arts Center.

A new event for this year’s festival will be the Tusculum College Old Oak Festival Annual Bed Race. The event, which features decorative, competitive racing beds, will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday. Two trophies will be conferred, one for most creative entry and the other for the winner of the speed competition. For more information, contact Barb Sell at bsell@tusculum.edu.

The college’s Allison Gallery will be open throughout the weekend, featuring the Tusculum College print collection, “Under the Old Oak.” A closing reception for the exhibition will be held at 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 26.

The festival will present the sounds of the region, with a wide variety of music from bluegrass to jazz to local vocalists and musicians. Pickin’ at the Doaks, which is a traditional music jam session, will be held at the Doak House Museum on Friday at 6 p.m. and Saturday at noon. Saturday’s performance will be a special session with a surprise guest.

Highlights of the performance schedule will be Americana band Annabelle’s Curse and Appalachian Reggae artists Ras Allen and the Lions who will perform on Friday evening. Saturday evening will feature two classic rock bands, Shiloh and the Kevin Wilder Group.

Other performers will include Tusculum College student groups, Capgun Alliance, fiddler Carson Peters, Charles Tunstall, Claxton Creek, Curtis and Jim Moneyhun, Fire Cry, Frankie B. & the New Chronic Dream, Jessica Koenig, Hinkle & Cable, Jimmie D. and the JDB, Joyce Carroll, the Kevin Wilder Group, Living Testament, Lonesome Pine, the Madisons, the Matt Sanders Group, Mike Joy, Shiloh Road, Step Cousins, Steven Brown, the Thursday Night Boys, Think Floyd and Zack Wampler.

Both the President Andrew Johnson Museum and Library and the Doak House Museum will be open on Friday and Saturday to visitors during the festival and will have special activities planned for adults and children.

At 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 26, there will be a lantern-lit tour of the Tusculum College buildings listed on the National Historic Register. From 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., the President Andrew Johnson Museum and Library will feature the “Reaper: Nettie Fowler McCormick and the Machine that Built Tusculum College” exhibit. This exhibit explores the changes wrought by the mechanical harvest and explores the context through which Mrs. McCormick viewed her philanthropic mission.

The festival will feature children’s activities on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and again on Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Throughout the weekend there will be storytelling performances on stage and around the festival grounds by Judy Butterfly Farlow, Jim Foote, Gregg Harrell, Saundra Kelley, Sherril Miller, Marci “The Entertainer” Nimick, Majorie “Mother Goose” Shaefer and Libby Tipton.

Llamas from the Walnut Ridge Llama Farm, previous favorites of the festival, will visit the Tusculum College campus over the weekend, with Walnut Ridge Llama Farm products available for purchase.

A Sunday highlight will be an outdoor chapel service beginning at 11 a.m. designed to re-create the feel of the frontier church experience. The service is open to the public and will be followed by traditional and contemporary gospel music performances throughout the day.

Food selection will include festival favorites, such as homemade strawberry shortcake, Philly cheese steak, and Amish doughnuts.

The festival is being coordinated by a committee of college and community representatives who are working to promote arts and music in the East Tennessee region. There are limited spaces still available for artisan and crafter booths. There is no fee to attend the festival. Artisan vendor hours will be Friday from noon until 6 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10-4 p.m. For more information, contact Price at 423-636-7303.

Service animals are welcome; however, no pets allowed. Coolers and alcohol are also prohibited during the festival.

For updates and more information, visit the website at www.oldoakfestival.org or on Facebook at www.facebook/OldOakFestival.

 

Talon Kidwell, a visitor at the 2013 Old Oak Festival, found the llamas from the Walnut Ridge Llama Farm a highlight of the weekend attraction.

Tusculum students explore politics, history and economy of Malta

Six Tusculum College students had the opportunity to explore some of the oldest known free-standing structures on earth, talk to business leaders about their experiences in the European Union and learn about international law during a trip to Malta in March.

The six students were accompanied by Dr. Troy Goodale, assistant professor of political science, for the trip to the small island nation south of Italy on March 8 -15. This is the third year for a group of Tusculum students to travel to Malta and the second trip that has included both students from the Residential College program and the Graduate and Professional Studies (GPS) program for working adults.

The trip’s purpose was to give the students an insight into international law, economics and history of Malta, said Dr. Goodale Tuesday evening during a presentation by the students about the trip to the campus community.

“It was an awesome trip,” said Christian Grumbach of Oak Ridge, who encouraged those attending to study abroad. “It is a great opportunity. I would highly recommend going on a study abroad trip. You can learn a lot.” Grumbach is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business administration through the GPS program.

The students stayed at the University of Malta, where they attended a class about international law. Grumbach said that the class focused on laws regarding search and rescue on the high seas, which he found interesting because of his background in the military.

Malta’s rich history was the focus of several of the excursions by the students, including to prehistoric temples that are considered to be some of the oldest free-standing structures on Earth and pre-date the Egyptian pyramids.

Describing the temple of Hagar Qin, Heather Hammack noted that it was built so that the light from the summer solstice strikes an interior stone. Hammack, who is from Maryville, is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in organizational management in the GPS program.

In the Mnajdra Temple, located about 500 feet down the hill from the Hagar Qin, the students discovered that it was built in such a way to not only mark the summer solstice but also the spring and autumn equinoxes. A museum at the temple sites contained objects found inside the temples, including statutes that are believed to be related to fertility beliefs of the builders of the temples.

The third temple the students visited was Ggantija, which gets its name for the Maltese word for “large.” Hammack said they had a long walk to reach the temple, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

While the students did much walking in their visits to the temples, they enjoyed a boat ride to travel to historic Birgu, which was an earlier capital of the nation. “The ocean was so beautiful, and the history is so rich,” said Grumbach. “I learned a lot and the culture was awesome.”

The students also visited the Domus Roman, a Roman villa that was unearthed during a construction project. The students said a museum was literally built around the villa, giving visitors an idea what it would have been like to be inside the villa.

Tusculum students Hannah Lefler, Christian Gumbach, Ryan Norton, Christina Murrell, Heather Hammack and Debbie Smith (from left) explore the Domus Roman, the remains of a Roman villa.

The students also visited Mdina, one of the oldest cities of Malta, and St. Paul’s Cathedral, named in honor of the Apostle Paul, who was shipwrecked on the island on his travels to Rome. The island’s people are primarily Roman Catholic, said Christina Murrell of Maryville, who is pursuing a business administration degree. The island has a church on almost every street corner, the students noted.

The striking Blue Grotto was one of the highlights of the trip for Ryan Norton, an art design major from Greeneville. Some of the students took a boat ride through the series of sea caverns. “The water is so blue,” Hammack said. “And it is so clear you can see to the bottom.”

The students noted that while they saw incredible architecture, the country is in an almost constant state of renovation because of the damage caused by the winds and salty air on the island.

As a student with a background in business, exploring the economic side of the nation was fascinating, said Debbie Smith of Knoxville, who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business administration. The students visited the Malta Financial Services Authority, which is the agency that regulates all aspects of financial for the nation.

There they learned more about Malta’s entrance into the European Union. The European Union was established following World War II initially to foster cooperation between nations in Europe, explained Smith.

Malta joined the European Union in 2004. During their visit to the Attrans, an international transport company, the owner told them that joining the European Union helped them as previously they had to go through the differing customs processes and tariffs in each country but now it is uniform, Smith noted.

“They are also very frugal, recycling and repurposing all they can,” she said. “Nothing is ever wasted.”

A trip to Gozo, one of the three islands that make up the nation, provided insights into history, business and culture. The island can only be reached by a ferry, said Hannah Lefler, a psychology major from Chapel Hill, and this lack of access has been debated for years as it limits commerce on the island. A bridge between the main island of Malta and Gozo is proposed, but so far not much progress has been made toward its becoming a reality, she added.

Victoria, the main city on Gozo, was first fortified in the Bronze Age and inside its walls are very narrow streets. The students visited three museums – one dedicated to forklore, another to archeology and the third to natural science.

The students also discovered a thriving jewelry trade in the city. The jewelry was made by hand and was inexpensive. Gozo is also known for its glass production and the glass items were much more expensive, the students noted.

A visit to the U.S. Embassy allowed the students to talk to employees about what they do and the life of a diplomat.

As they ended their presentation, they encouraged the students in attendance to travel to Malta or other international destinations for study. “If you have the opportunity, just go,” said Hammack. “It is the best money you’ll ever spend.”

Additional opportunities for study in Malta may be offered soon as the college is entering an exchange relationship with the University of Malta, which will allow Tusculum students to study there as well as University of Malta students to study at Tusculum, said Dr. Geir Bergvin, director of the Center for Global Studies.

The students traveled by boat to both the city of Birgu and the island of Gozo.