2013-2014 Directory of Scholars

Transcription

Niswonger Foundation
Directory of Scholars
2013-2014
NISWONGER FOUNDATION
T
he Niswonger Foundation was established in 2001 to make a positive and
sustainable difference in education in Northeast Tennessee. This dream
was envisioned by Scott M. Niswonger, majority shareholder of Landair
Transport, Inc. and Chairman Emeritus of Forward Air Corporation. These
companies, founded by Mr. Niswonger, were the first two Greeneville-based companies
to be taken public in the history of Greene County, Tennessee. Jointly, the companies
have combined annual revenue of over $700 million dollars and employ over 4000 people.
With the success of his two companies, the philosophy of “Learn, Earn and Return”
was created. Using the innovative model of now having a private, for-profit logistics
company, Landair Transport, support a not-for-profit educational foundation, the goal
of bringing rigorous, relevant, and cost effective programs to public education became a
mission. Fundamental to the success of the Niswonger Foundation has been a clear focus
Scott M. Niswonger
President and Founder
on removing constraints to educational innovation and problem solving, thus allowing
local school systems to better provide for student needs. By building school programs that
are research-based and sustainable, the Niswonger Foundation has become a recognized
voice for educational reform in the State of Tennessee, while nurturing the next generation of leaders.
The bases for the Foundation’s work are the School Partnership program and the Scholarship and Leadership program. The
Niswonger Foundation expands its philosophy of “Learn, Earn and Return” beyond Northeast Tennessee through involvement
in numerous statewide educational initiatives. In addition, the Foundation shares a percentage of our operating funds for grants
to other not-for-profit agencies for programs that support our mission “To create opportunities for individual and community
growth through education and other sustainable projects.”
Congratulations to Our Class of 2013!
(pictured from left to right)
James Durham
Johneshia Good
Jason Light
William Brummett
Elizabeth Jones
(Photograph from the 2009 freshman
trip to Biltmore Estate)
NISWONGER FOUNDATION
SCHOLARSHIP AND LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
Niswonger Scholars joined by Scott Niswonger and Col. Martha McSally, First United States Female Combat Fighter Squadron Commander
Two thousand thirteen marks the eleventh year of the Niswonger
Foundation’s Scholarship and Leadership Program. We celebrate
the accomplishments of our 18 current Scholars and 49 Alumni
Scholars.
The Niswonger Foundation’s guiding philosophy of “Learn, Earn
and Return” is firmly embedded in our Scholarship and Leadership
program. We take the brightest young leaders in Northeast Tennessee, provide them the opportunity to receive the best college education possible, and supplement that education with four years of leadership development activities. The plan is to see Niswonger Scholars
come back to the region with not only strong earning potential,
but an entrepreneurial spirit and overwhelming desire to return
their talents and energy to the region. Our Scholars are required to
participate in community building activities and leadership training.
The goal is that at the end of their experience as Niswonger Scholars, they will embody the values most important to the mission of
the Foundation: exceptional leadership ability, exemplary personal
character, and strong dedication to building community.
Scholarships are currently offered in the following seventeen
school districts: Bristol, Elizabethton, Greeneville, Johnson City,
Kingsport, Carter County, Cocke County, Greene County, Hamblen County, Hancock County, Hawkins County, Jefferson County,
Johnson County, Sevier County, Sullivan County, Unicoi County
and Washington County.
In exchange for each year of financial support, recipients pledge to
return to their home communities for at least one year of service
in the career of their choice. The hope is that by enabling these
students to study their passions and by cultivating their leadership abilities, they will return to their homes to be leaders in their
professions and an inspiration and catalyst for future change. While
a number of our Alumni are attending graduate schools or starting
their first professional job, and are still in the process of returning to
our region, we honor and recognize the following Alumni who are
already meeting their commitment by living, working and serving
in the growth and development of Northeast Tennessee: Dr. Katie
Baker, assistant professor, ETSU; Lauren Williams Bible, aspirant
agent, State Farm Insurance; Matt Bible; chemical engineer, Eastman Chemical Company; Will Brummett, Logistics Coordinator,
Carson-Newman University; Nick Darnell, middle school teacher,
East Ridge Middle School; Dr. Jessica Epley Freshour, Assistant
Professor, ETSU; Elizabeth Jones, mechanical engineer, Eastman
Chemical Company; Jason Light, electrical engineer, Eastman
Chemical Company; Law Loving, quantative analyst, Smarty Pants
Company; Adam Miller, business systems analyst, Enhanced Systems Consulting, Inc.; Sara Smith Noe; elementary teacher; Brandi
Ricker Shelnutt, chemistry teacher, Greeneville High School; and
Elizabeth Batson Williams, E3 Engineering and Design.
CLASS OF 2014
ALEXANDER ‘ALEX’
JAMES CROGHAN
Lipscomb University, Senior
Alex, son of Jerry and Laura
Croghan, graduated from David Crockett
High School. He served as editor of the
school newspaper, vice-president of the
Drama Club, and president of the Spanish
Club. He was a member of the cross country team, Beta Club,
chorus, and madrigal singers. He was chosen to attend the Tennessee
Governor’s School for chemistry and attended Lipscomb University’s
journalism camp.
Alex is a senior at Lipscomb University, majoring in biology.
He was awarded a summer internship by the Department of Biology
at Lipscomb University studying the protein TDP-2 in neurological
development using a C.elegans model. His desire is to become a
physician, with a current interest in becoming an emergency room
physician and a college professor. Alex is currently involved in
the organization of Alpha Phi Ki, an organization with a focus on
volunteer activities in the Nashville area.
YAYING WANG
Emory University, Senior
Yaying is from Greeneville where
she graduated from Greeneville High
School. She is the daughter of YuYan Liu
and the late ZuJian Wang.
Yaying is attending Emory
University, majoring in psychology and neuroscience. She serves
as president of Inter-Varsity Christian Fellowship and is a member
of the Nu Rho Psi Honors Society. She published a research paper
on CRISPR Immunity with Bruce Levin, a National Academy of
Science member. Yaying finished her cross-cultural research on
Morality and Fairness in Children in Samoa, Vanuatu, Mexico,
and the U.S. She completed a study abroad experience in the South
Pacific Islands and New Zealand. For her community service,
Yaying has chosen to lead a group of students in a volunteer effort
at a terminal cancer center. After her undergraduate studies, she
plans to attend medical school and specialize in psychiatry. She is
also interested in medical research.
KAYLA ASHLEY WILLIAMS
University of Tennessee, Senior
A native of Morristown, Kayla
graduated from Morristown East High
School. She is the daughter of David and
Melody Williams.
Kayla is completing the last year
of the BSN program at the University
of Tennessee. She serves as Treasurer
of the Student Nurses Association and is currently completing an
internship with the Dean of Research for the College of Nursing.
Kayla also completed an internship at Morristown Hamblen
Hospital and participated in a service trip to Honduras. She was the
2012 and 2013 recipient of the Artie Ruth Reilly nursing scholarship.
Kayla’s future plans are to pursue a doctorate of nursing practice.
CLASS OF 2015
country and soccer teams, he was also a member of the Beta Club.
He is trilingual, speaking Spanish, English, and French. Francisco
volunteered at the East Tennessee State University Catholic Center,
preparing meals for the residents of the John Sevier Community
Center. He participated in Tipton Haynes summer program as a
Junior board member.
Francisco is a student at Vanderbilt University. He is pursuing
a double major in neuroscience and economics, with a minor
in French. His desired professional field is business strategy. He
completed an internship with Schneider Electric working as a
Sales and Marketing eCommerce Intern. Francisco volunteers as
a student consultant in a brand renovation project for the Urban
League of Middle Tennessee.
LILLIE NICOLE SEAL
Lincoln Memorial University, Junior
JORDAN PAIGE FRYE
University of Tennessee, Junior
Jordan, daughter of Paul and Gena
Frye, graduated with honors from Sullivan
East High School. She was chosen to
attend the Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership
Conference, and the Worldview Scholars
Program. She participated in organized
volunteer efforts in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Washington D.C.,
Chicago, Illinois, and Dulac, Louisiana.
Jordan attends the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, majoring
in social work with a minor in religious studies. She works as a
student assistant in the President’s office and she was selected to
serve on the Student Government Association and the Student
Senate to represent the College of Social Work. She is a member of
the Bachelor’s of Social Work organization and was inducted into
Impact, a part of the Student Alumni Association. She also serves as
a volunteer tutor and teacher at the Boy’s and Girl’s Club.
FRANCISCO JOSE
OCHOA-VARGAS
Vanderbilt University, Junior
Francisco is the son of Fernando
Ochoa and Rosa Marie Ochoa-Vargas. He
graduated from University School with
academic Top 10 honors. He served as vice
president and co-president of the French
Club and Pep Club. He was a member and captain of the cross
Lillie is the daughter of Mark and
Diane Seal. She graduated with honors from
Hancock County High School where she
maintained a 4.0 GPA. She served as chair of
Student Council’s social committee, Student
Council photographer, and vice president of
the History club. She was also a member of the 4-H Honor Club,
Spanish club, softball team, dance team, and served as a Model UN
delegate.
Lillie is attending Lincoln Memorial University, majoring
in elementary education. She was inducted into the Alpha Chi
National Honors Society and was elected to serve on the Student
Government Association. She was appointed Pro Tempore, and is
serving on the Executive Council. She is an active member of the
Student Teacher Education Association and the Baptist Collegiate
Ministries. Lillie volunteers at a local elementary school where she
tutors children in math and reading. Her future goal is to attend law
school and become a lawyer representing higher education.
MICHAEL ALEXANDER
‘ALEX’ SMYTH
East Tennessee State University, Junior
Alex, the son of Mike and Michele
Smyth, graduated as Valedictorian from
West Greene High School. He was president
of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes
and the First Priority Club. He was vice
president of both his senior class and the Student Council, secretary
of the National Honor Society, captain of the Round Robin and
Scholar Bowl teams, and the student representative for West Greene
on the Greene County School Board. Alex was captain of the Cross
CLASS OF 2015 (CONTINUED)
Country team and also played basketball and baseball for four years.
He was selected to participate in the National Children of the Earth
(COE) Youth Leadership Congress in Washington D.C., and was
selected to be the Master of Ceremonies. He served as volunteer
chaplain for the Greene County All Star Baseball team, and plays
piano in his church praise band, “Living Testament.”
Alex spent his freshman year at Furman University where he
was on the Dean’s list and served as worship leader for the Baptist
Collegiate Ministries. Alex is now attending East Tennessee State
University where he is preparing to be an elementary mathematics
teacher. For his community service, Alex began working as a
volunteer with One Acre Cafe, a start-up program that works under
the “One World, Everybody Eats” model. He now serves as a student
representative on their Board of Directors. Alex recently received
the Robert Noyce scholarship.
CHRISTOPHER RALPH
STEADMAN
University of Tennessee, Junior
Christopher, the son of Steven and
Mary Steadman, graduated with honors
from Dobyns-Bennett High School. He was
selected as a Tennessee/Virginia Scholar.
Throughout high school he was a member of
the football team, wrestling team, Beta Club, and National Honors
Society. He is also a member of the Boy Scouts of America having
obtained the rank of Eagle Scout. Christopher received the Rotary
National Outstanding Academic Student Leadership Award.
Christopher is attending the University of Tennessee on a
premedical track. His aspiration is to attend medical school and
become an anesthesiologist. He has been inducted into two national
honors societies for academic achievement, Phi Eta Sigma and the
National Society of Collegiate Scholars. Christopher works as a
volunteer at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital.
CLASS OF 2016
MICHAEL “GAGE”
ARMSTRONG
University of Tennessee, Sophomore
Gage Armstrong, son of Michael
and Laurie Armstrong, graduated from
Chuckey-Doak High School ranking first in
his class and maintaining a 4.0 GPA. Gage
served as co-president of the National Honor
Society, played four years of varsity baseball
and was a member of the bowling team. He was a member of both
the Scholar’s Bowl and Round Robin teams. Gage participated in
the Greene County Youth Leadership program, the Greene County
Youth Council, and served as a student representative on the Greene
County Board of Education. He was recognized as a Tennessee
Scholar and is a volunteer at Laughlin Memorial Hospital.
Gage is attending the University of Tennessee - Knoxville on
a pre-med track, majoring in honors biochemistry and cellular &
molecular biology. He is an Honors Peer Mentor in the Chancellor’s
honors program. His future plan is to attend medical school. Gage
is also interested in pursuing a political position in his community.
NATHANIEL “TREY”
XAVIER DODSON III
Vanderbilt University, Sophomore
Nathaniel “Trey” Dodson is the son
of Mary Dodson. He graduated with high
honors from Jefferson County High School.
He received the AHERN African American
Student of the Year, Jefferson County High
School Junior and Senior Student of the
Year, the Carver G. Woodson Memorial Award, and was a Wendy’s
Heisman state finalist. He helped with the preservation of African
American culture in Jefferson County through various projects
including “Nelson Merry Makeover” and “Stories in Stones.”
Trey is attending Vanderbilt University, where he is majoring in
human & organizational development, with a minor in economics.
He is a member of Black Student Alliance, Vanderbilt Investment
Club, and Vanderbilt entrepreneurship club. On an HOD 1100 team,
he launched a safety initiative on Vanderbilt’s freshmen campus to
bridge the gap between safety resources offered and the usage of those
resources by students. He is President and founder of “Kenya Dig
It?” organization. Trey traveled to Kenya to build social businesses
and lecture to the all-girls boarding school that is funded by social
businesses. He also worked as a marketing consultant in a summer
internship for the Nashville Chamber of Commerce in the education
department. After graduation, he plans to pursue an MBA or attend
law school.
IVORY JANEE SHELTON
Wake Forest University, Sophomore
Ivory, daughter of Roger and Brenda
Shelton, graduated with honors from
Unicoi County High School. She served
as Student Council president, BETA Club
parliamentarian, Pep Club “Central Spirit”
co-chairman, and committee chair for the
Unicoi County High School Relay for Life. She was a Top Ten national
competitor for Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA).
Ivory was selected to participate in the junior volunteer program at
the Johnson City Medical Center. She has earned her licenses as a
Certified Nursing Assistant and Emergency Medical Responder.
Ivory is attending Wake Forest University on a pre-med track.
She is majoring in religion with a double minor in biology and
chemistry. She earned 2nd place in the Collegiate HOSA Competition
in Human Growth and Development Knowledge Test. She serves as
Student Academic Advisor and Orientation Leader and is a member
of the Bioethical debate steering committee, Campus EMS and
Club basketball. She received the Freshman CRC Press Award in
Chemistry. Ivory participated in a service abroad trip to El Salvador.
Her goal is to attend the Wake Forest School of Medicine, focusing
on emergency medicine.
MATTHEW STEPHEN
SHEPPARD
Clemson University, Sophomore
Matthew Sheppard is the son of Gerald
and Melanie Sheppard. He graduated from
Sullivan South High School where he
maintained a 4.0 GPA and ranked first in
his class. Matthew served as president of
the Student Council and Key Club. He was
DECA Club Treasurer, and manager of the track team. Matthew was
recognized by the Kingsport Kiwanis Club as the 2011 Outstanding
Key Clubber. He was a member of National Honor Society and
qualified for international competition in DECA. He is a Tennessee/
Virginia Scholar, participated in the Student Congress on Policies
in Education (SCOPE), and S.H.O.U.T!, a community leadership
program for selected high school students.
Matthew is majoring in industrial engineering at Clemson
University. He serves as Governor of the Holmes/McCabe
Community Council and was selected “Governor of the Year”. He also
serves as Vice President of Clemson Residence Hall Association. He
volunteers with Lutheran Hospice. Upon receiving his undergraduate
degree, Matthew hopes to earn an MBA. He has an interest in local
politics and aspires to run for public office in Northeast Tennessee.
RICHARD WADE
VRADENBURGH
Tennessee Technological University,
Sophomore
Richard, son of the late William and
Deborah Vradenburgh, graduated with
honors and as valedictorian from West
Greene High School. He served as president
of Student Council and Chess Club, co-president of National Honor
Society, co-captain of the varsity cross country team, and was an
officer for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He was a member of
the Technology Student Association, First Priority, Round Robin, and
the varsity track team. He was a member of the Greene County Youth
Leadership and was chosen to attend the Rotary Youth Leadership
Awards seminar in Blacksburg, VA.
Richard is attending Tennessee Technological University,
majoring in Mathematics. He is a member of the Tech Honors
Program and won the spring Tech Integration Bee. He volunteers
with Cookeville Housing Authority and TNT (Teens Need Training).
Richard plans to attend graduate school with a goal of teaching
mathematics.
CLASS OF 2017
MATTHEW JOHANN GRIMM
University of Tennessee, Freshman
SAMUEL LUCAS BRASHEARS
Wake Forest University, Freshman
Sam, son of Samuel and Candra
Brashears, graduated with honors and
with top ten distinction from Sullivan
North High School. In his time at Sullivan
North, Sam was elected to serve as HOSA
president and senior class vice president.
While involved in HOSA, Sam volunteered in many community
fundraisers, including helping to organize five school blood drives
in two years, making Sullivan North the highest donating school
per capita in the region. Sam also competed in HOSA Bowl, placing
2nd at regional and 5th at state competition. He is also a founding
member of the Sullivan North Robotics team. Sam participated
in varsity basketball, track, and cross-country. He helped Sullivan
North’s basketball team reach the semifinal round of the regional
tournament, a feat last accomplished in 1995.
Sam is majoring in English with a dual minor in chemistry and
biology at Wake Forest University. He plans to use his degree to bring
a new perspective to healthcare as an emergency room Physician.
When asked about being a Niswonger Scholar, Sam responded,
“Being a Scholar is about more than the opportunity to attend the
college of my dreams. It means I am part of a tight-knit family who
will equip me and my fellow Scholars with the tools and advice we
need to change our communities. As Scholars, we are united by our
drive to improve the world around us, and without the Niswonger
Foundation and this program, our impact would be far less. I’m
so thankful for Mr. Niswonger and the Niswonger Foundation for
everything they have done for me and my community.”
Matthew, son of Calvin and Elaine
Grimm, graduated from Daniel Boone High
School with a 4.0 and as Salutatorian with
both honor and distinction. While at Daniel
Boone, he was a member of the Academic
Team, which competed regionally, Beta
Club, and the National Honor Society. Matthew’s community
service included working weekly at a homeless kitchen run by his
church and in the Emergency Room at Johnson City Medical Center.
Matthew received awards for his academics and recognition for his
dedication and work to help the underserved in downtown Johnson
City. He is a Sunday School teacher, musician, and a student leader
in his church’s youth ministry.
Matthew is majoring in nursing at the University of Tennessee.
He plans a career as a nurse practitioner after obtaining a master’s
degree in nursing. He also plans to continue his work in ministry.
When asked about being a Niswonger Scholar, Matthew responded,
“Being chosen as a Niswonger Scholar goes beyond having the
opportunity to financially attend the college of your choice, it gives
us as Scholars the opportunity to change our community and the
world around us in more ways than we could on our own. The
Niswonger Foundation, with the vision of Mr. Niswonger, equips us
with both experience and opportunity; it’s a family, and I am blessed
to be a part of it.
DUSTIN COLE HOWSER
Vanderbilt University, Freshman
Dustin, son of Darlene and Tim
Howser, graduated with honors and highest
distinction from Bristol Tennessee High
School. He served as Editor in Chief of
the Tennessee High Cadmea and Student
Technology Assistant for the Bristol
Tennessee City School System while actively involving himself in
the BETA Club and National Honor Society. He served as a member
of the National Society of High School Scholars and is a Barter
Theater Honorable Mention Playwright, Bristol Youth Leadership
Graduate, and Discus Awards Winner for the Arts. Dustin maintains
a role as an active musician in the community and performed as
lead guitarist for the Tennessee High Symphonic Jazz band, the
choral department Madrigal singers, and school bluegrass group,
Slim Pickins. He was also voted “Best Act” at the Gatlinburg, TN
“Smokey Mountain Songwriter’s Festival.” Other current musical
endeavors to his credit include lead guitarist and session leader
for both Phoenix Record’s National country artist, Brad Puckett,
and newly signed and touring rock group, Cadence, while holding
significant experience as an accomplished song writer and studio
musician. Dustin actively volunteers in his church and community.
He worked with local organizations with benefits to fight childhood
cancer and child abuse both in East Tennessee and nationally and
the National Alzheimer’s Association.
Dustin is majoring in mechanical engineering at Vanderbilt
University. He plans to use this degree to further alternative
energy design in the region to offer clean energy and jobs to the
tri-cities area. When asked about selection as a Niswonger Scholar,
Dustin shared, “Selection as a Niswonger Scholar is not just an
amazing honor but a superb opportunity for me and my family. My
excitement to be involved in this program grows with each day I
spend with this wonderful group of students and professionals. I am
proud and deeply humbled to be a part of this wonderful family.”
RAINI MAE ROWENHORST
Raini, daughter of Corby and Diane
Rowenhorst, graduated with honors
from David Crockett High School. While
attending DCHS, she served as vicepresident of the FFA, activities director of
the Civinettes, and secretary of Fellowship
of Christian Athletes. She was selected to represent the Washington
County school system at the Student Congress on Policies in
Education. Raini participated in many volunteer projects within her
community and church, including Southern Appalachian Ronald
McDonald House and the Crumley House where she is continuing
her service in their occupational therapy department.
Raini is attending the University of Tennessee - Knoxville,
majoring in psychology. She hopes to council children with
developmental disorders. When asked to comment on what it
means to be a Niswonger Scholar, Raini replied, “I am absolutely
honored to be a part of this family! It is incredibly rare to find a
group of individuals, all unique in their talents and passions,
united by their desire to better mankind. I hope that I can do my
part to help this wonderful organization meet their goal and make
Northeast Tennessee a better place for all of the incredible people
who live here.”
KAITLYN JOY SHIELDS
Katie is a graduate of Pigeon Forge
High School, where she ranked first in
her class and maintained a 4.0 grade point
average. She is the daughter of Brigitte
Shields of Pigeon Forge and William Shields
of Sevierville. While at Pigeon Forge,
Katie served as President of the Leo Club, Treasurer of National
Honor Society, Vice President of Beta Club and Future Farmers of
America Reporter. She attended Governor’s School for Prospective
Teachers at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga. She lettered
in basketball, softball and cross country. She volunteered with Boy’s
and Girl’s Club, Habitat for Humanity, Toys for Tots, and her local
soup kitchen.
Katie is attending the University of Tennessee-Knoxville
majoring in ALEC (agriculture, leadership, education, and
communication). When asked what being a Niswonger Scholar
means to her, Katie replied, “It would be far too much of an
understatement to say that I am honored to become part of the
Niswonger family. I am looking forward to getting to know
each member on a closer level, as well as finding out what this
life-changing program has to offer! Helping to better our East
Tennessee community definitely sits heavily on my heart, and all
of the opportunities to do just that are unfolding right before my
eyes each and every day.”
DIRECTORY OF ALUMNI
DR. MARY KATE ‘KATIE’ BAKER
Class of 2007
East Tennessee State University Alumna,
DrPH (Doctor of Public Health)
University of Alabama-Birmingham Alumna,
Master’s in Public Health
Furman University, Alumna
Originally from Greeneville, Katie graduated as
valedictorian from Greeneville High School. She is the daughter of Joe Baker and
Janet Hicks. Katie graduated from Furman University with a degree in health and
exercise science. She earned her master’s degree in public health from the University
of Alabama-Birmingham. She was selected as an “American Public Health
Association Maternal and Child Health Fellow.”
Katie graduated from East Tennessee State University with a doctorate in
public health in community and behavioral health. Her dissertation title was:
Preventing Skin Cancer in Adolescent Girls Through Intervention with their
Mothers. She earned 1st place at the 2013 Appalachian Student Research Forum
where she presented her dissertation research.
She accepted a position as a tenure-track Assistant Professor in the Department
of Community and Behavioral Health at East Tennessee State University’s College
of Public Health. Through her role as an Assistant Professor, she will launch her
research lab in the near future, which will focus on the intergenerational transmission
of health behaviors. Her interests are in developing community-and family-based
health promotion programs to improve health outcomes in Appalachia.
LAUREN WILLIAMS BIBLE
Class of 2011
Tennessee Technological University, pursuing a
Master’s of Business Administration (M.B.A.)
East Tennessee State University, Alumna
Lauren is a native of Greeneville and graduated
from Greeneville High School. She is the daughter of
Lori Williams and the late Mark Williams. She spent her
first college years at Furman University where she was a business administration
major before transferring to East Tennessee State University. Lauren graduated from
ETSU, summa cum laude, with a degree in business administration.
At Furman, she was inducted into Phi Eta Sigma honor society. She completed
internships with the Mountain States Health Alliance strategic planning office, in
Johnson City and Northwestern Mutual Financial Network.
Lauren is currently employed with Harold Dishner-State Farm Insurance
as an aspirant agent. She is also pursuing a master’s in business administration at
Tennessee Technological University. Lauren is married to Matthew Bible and they
reside in Kingsport.
MATTHEW LEE BIBLE
Class of 2011
Tennessee Technological University, Alumnus
Matt is from Mosheim and graduated from West Greene
High School. He is the son of Martell and Vicki Bible. He
graduated magna cum laude from Tennessee Technological
University with a degree in chemical engineering.
He completed four consecutive summer internships with Jarden Zinc Products
in Greeneville, where he worked in research and development. He participated in a
study abroad experience in Paris, France.
Matt is currently employed with Eastman Chemical Company as a chemical
engineer. He resides in Kingsport with his wife, Lauren Williams Bible.
TYLER LEE BOYD
Class of 2011
Virginia Tech, Alumnus, Genetics
and Dairy Science
Vanderbilt University, Alumnus
Tyler is a native of Parrottsville and attended
Greeneville High School, where he was valedictorian. He
is the son of David and Deborah Boyd. Tyler graduated from Vanderbilt University
with a Bachelor of Arts degree in ecology, evolution, and organismal biology. He has
a double minor in American political science and sociology.
He served as area representative and attorney general for the Vanderbilt
Student Government, the All-American Sale Committee for the American Jersey
Cattle Association (AJCA), the All-American Junior Planning Committee for
AJCA, the All-American Jersey Judge Futurity Committee; and was a member of
the inaugural class of Jersey Youth Academy, serving as a peer leader for the second
class. He was also a 3-term president of the Tennessee Junior Jersey Cattle Club.
Tyler pursued a second undergraduate degree, graduating cum laude from
Virginia Tech in the field of dairy science. He attended Southern and National
American Dairy Science Association meetings, as a student affiliate, was the Catalog
Chair for the 2012 Showcase Sale at Virginia Tech, and was a member of VT’s 2012
dairy judging team. Tyler is a member of Alpha Zeta Ag Honors Fraternity, Gamma
Sigma Delta Honor Society of Agriculture. He served as a Dairy Genetics Intern for
Genex/CRI. He is currently employed as a marketing assistant at World Wide Sires,
Ltd. in Visalia, California.
BRADLEY SCOTT BROWN
Class of 2008
Harvard Business School, pursuing a Master’s
in Business Administration (M.B.A.)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Alumnus
Bradley is a native of Elizabethton, where he
graduated as valedictorian from Elizabethton High
School. He is the son of Scott and Jackie Brown. He
graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he majored in civil
engineering and finance.
Bradley served as president of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity and captain
of the golf team. He has completed internships with CSS Trading, a Chicago-based
hedge fund; the investments division of Aviva USA; and investment banking at
Goldman Sachs.
After graduation, Bradley worked at Goldman Sachs in New York, and Hellman
& Friedman, a private equity firm in San Francisco. He is currently pursuing an
MBA at Harvard Business School with plans to continue his career in the financial
industry. Bradley and his wife Jenna reside in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
CHRISTOPHER MORGAN BROWN
Class of 2010
East Tennessee State University, Alumnus
A native of Erwin, Chris graduated as valedictorian
from Unicoi County High School. He is the son of Scott
and Diane Brown. Chris earned his degree in English and
secondary education from East Tennessee State University.
He has served as the Unicoi County High School varsity
defensive coordinator, the head Unicoi County Middle School track and field coach,
and as the head 7th grade men’s basketball coach.
Chris taught seventh grade language arts at Unicoi County Middle School for
two years. He then moved to Chattanooga where he is teaching English at East Lake
Academy of Fine Arts and is a varsity football coach at Ooltewah High School. He
plans to teach and continue coaching for several years before pursuing a position as
a school administrator. Chris and his wife Joli reside in Chattanooga.
PATRICK CARDER BROWN
Class of 2009
Purdue University, Alumnus
Patrick is from Greeneville, graduating from
Greeneville High School. He is the son of Bill and Jane
Brown. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in
landscape architecture from Purdue University.
Patrick was a member of the Purdue Varsity Glee
Club for which he received honors including, “Freshman of the Year,” the “Griffin
Award” for most compassionate member, and was appointed as a member of the
Student Leadership Board. He was also a member of Alpha Zeta, an agricultural
honor fraternity. Patrick completed internships with Hoerr Schaudt Landscape
Architects and Jacobs/Ryan Associates in Chicago, IL; the North Carolina
Arboretum in Asheville, NC; and with the East Tennessee State University campus
horticulturalist.
Patrick is currently a landscape architect in Knoxville. He was recently
accepted into the Young Professionals of Knoxville organization.
WILLIAM ‘WILL’ ROSS BRUMMETT
Class of 2013
Elon University, Alumnus
Will is from Jefferson City, where he graduated from
Jefferson County High School. He is the son of Ross and
Lea Ann Brummett. He graduated summa cum laude
from Elon University with a degree in religious studies.
He was awarded the Sigma Phi Episolon “Balanced Man”
Scholarship, the Presidential Scholarship, the W.L. Monroe Christian Personality
and Education Award, the Iris Holt McEwen Community Service Award, the
Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award, the Jim Pickens Outstanding Student in Peace
and Conflict Studies Award, and the Religious Studies Scholar Award. In addition,
Will has been recognized with the Newman Civic Fellow Award, the Omicron
Delta Kappa leadership fraternity, and as one of three Truman Scholarship Finalists
for the State of Tennessee. Will is an honorary Periclean Scholar, an international
aid program on campus; and during his first two years, he was a member and
leader of the Service Learning Community. Will also served as a Leadership and
Development Intern for the Kernodle Center for Service Learning and Community
Engagement, where he developed leadership training programs for over one
hundred service leaders on campus.
Will has accepted the position of Logistics Coordinator at Carson-Newman
University. He will be leading student development efforts for the Bonner Center for
Service Learning and Civic Engagement.
NATALIE NEAS COLEMAN
Class of 2009
Vanderbilt University, Alumna
Natalie is from Parrottsville and graduated as
valedictorian from Cocke County High School. She is
the daughter of Jeff and Montye Neas. Natalie graduated
summa cum laude from Vanderbilt University with
degrees in secondary education and English.
She was the recipient of the “Kevin Conginetti Award” for outstanding
secondary-level teaching. Natalie completed a study abroad program at the
University College London. She completed her student teaching at Woodland
Middle School and Glencliff High School, in Nashville.
Natalie is currently working as a middle school English teacher in Gallatin.
She wishes to continue to grow and gain experience as an educator in the classroom
and eventually become an administrator and an author. Natalie is married to Jason
Coleman.
THOMAS ‘TOM’ MASSEY CULLY
Class of 2010
Cornell University, pursuing the Doctor
of Veterinarian Medicine (D.V.M.)
Indiana Wesleyan University, Alumnus
Tom is a graduate of Lincolnview High School in
Van Wert, Ohio. He is the son of Ed and Sandy Cully. He is
a graduate of Indiana Wesleyan University with a major in
biology/pre-medical curriculum.
He served as vice president of the Science Club and residence hall outreach
coordinator, as well as a biology department teaching assistant. For his extensive
work in the community, Tom received the “Bowman Hall Community Service
Award.” He gained career experiences at Countryside Veterinary Services in
Knoxville; Rome Veterinary Center, Rome, Pennsylvania; and the U.S. Department
of Agriculture ARS Behavioral Research Unit, Purdue University. Tom also
completed a marine ecology field study in the Cayman Islands.
Tom is in his third year at Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine.
He serves as president of the Cornell Student Chapter of the American Veterinary
Medical Association (SCAVMA), secretary of the Christian Veterinary Fellowship,
and captain of the Bovine Palpation Team. His awards include, American
Association of Bovine Practitioners Amstutz Award, American Association of
Bovine Practitioners Quiz Bowl team champions, American Veterinary Medical
Foundation & Zoetis Scholarship Award and the Student Chapter of the American
Veterinary Medical Association Distinguished Member Award. Tom is married to
Olivia Lewton Cully. They are expecting their first child in the fall.
NICHOLAS ‘NICK’ SHAUN DARNELL
Class of 2006
East Tennessee State University, pursuing
an Education Specialist Degree (Ed.S.)
East Tennessee State University, Alumnus,
Master’s in Education (M.Ed.)
Tusculum College, Alumnus
A native of Greeneville, Nick was president of his
senior class and graduated as valedictorian from South Greene High School. He
is the son of Earlin and Ada Darnell. Nick attended Tusculum College, graduating
with a degree in elementary education. Nick was inducted into the honor society
Alpha Chi and helped found the university’s chapter of College Republicans.
Nick teaches eighth grade American history at East Ridge Middle School in
Hamblen County. This is his seventh year as an educator. He coaches cross country
and track and is head sponsor of the school’s Junior Beta Club. He is chairman of the
school improvement committee, member of the data team, and a lead mentor. He
earned his master’s in educational leadership and an administrative endorsement
from East Tennessee State University. He is currently pursuing his education
specialist degree in school system leadership at East Tennessee State University. He
plans to pursue a career in school administration, first becoming a school principal
and later working on the state or national level in education policy.
DIRECTORY OF ALUMNI
LUCAS EDWARD DELOACH
Class of 2010
University of Virginia, Alumnus,
Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.)
A native of Elizabethton, Lucas graduated from
Elizabethton High School. He is the son of Doug and Beth
Deloach. He is a graduate of Vanderbilt University. His
majors were political science and philosophy.
He was co-president of the Vanderbilt chapter of Habitat for Humanity. He
completed internships in the emergency department of the Johnson City Medical
Center, with the Harold Ford, Jr., for Senate campaign, and with the law firm of
Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell, and Berkowitz.
Lucas graduated from the University of Virginia School of Law, where he
received a merit scholarship. He was a judicial intern for the Honorable James P.
Jones in the Western District of Virginia and a research assistant to Professor George
Rutherglen. He was a summer associate with PennStuart in Abingdon, Virginia and
Bristol, Tennessee. He has accepted the position of law clerk to the Honorable James
P. Jones, United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia.
JAMES MICHAEL DURHAM
Class of 2013
Notre Dame University, Alumnus
James, a resident of Limestone, graduated as
valedictorian from Chuckey-Doak High School. He is the son
of Mike and Lara Durham.
James graduated from the University of Notre Dame
with a degree in marketing. He was a member of the Notre
Dame juggling club, using his talents to assist community fundraising events. James
was also involved with a boxing program that raises money for missions in Bangladesh.
He interned with Notre Dame Center for Social Concerns in social venturing and
microfinance, working with the Learning Generation Initiative and the Soup of Success
programs in Elkhart, Indiana. James was named “Mr. Notre Dame” by his peers.
James accepted a position with State Farm Financial Services in California.
His future plans include attending graduate school to pursue a master’s in business
administration.
BENJAMIN ‘BEN’ KEEFAUVER FOX
Class of 2009
Bryant University, Alumnus, Masters in
Business Administration (M.B.A.)
Washington University, Alumnus
Ben is from Gray, where he graduated as valedictorian
from Daniel Boone High School. He is the son of Mark
and Beth Fox. Ben graduated from Washington University,
with a degree in marketing and human resources.
He played varsity football and served as a teaching assistant for classes in
quantitative business analysis. He received the Washington University football
team’s award for “Most Inspirational” and the honor of “Academic All-UAA.”
During his time in college, he completed internships with the Tusculum College
football program and the Johnson City planning department.
Ben completed a master’s in business administration at Bryant University.
He served as a graduate assistant, coaching the defensive line for the Bryant
football program. He was promoted to the position of Wide Receiver Coach at
Bryant University. Ben is currently working as a coach at Huntingdon College in
Montgomery, Alabama. He and his wife Katie reside in Montgomery.
CASEY JACKSON FRANTZ
Class of 2008
University of St. Francis, Alumna
Casey is from Van Wert, Ohio, where she graduated
with honors from Lincolnview High School. She is the
daughter of Mike and Tracey Reichert. Casey is an alumna
of the University of Saint Francis, where she earned a degree
in health sciences. While in college, she served as a volunteer with the Lutheran
Emergency Department and Summit Radiology Center.
Casey is currently working at Dental Health P.C., in Warsaw, Indiana, as
a dental radiologic technologist/dental assistant. She also does on-call work for
Kosciusko Community Hospital and Medstat Urgent Care. Casey plans to specialize
in an area of radiology. She and her husband Jared reside in South Whitley, Indiana
and just recently purchased their first home.
DR. JESSICA EPLEY FRESHOUR
Class of 2006
East Tennessee State University, Alumna,
Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D)
Tusculum College, Alumna
Jessica is from Newport, where she graduated from Cocke
County High School. She is a graduate of Tusculum College
and holds a degree in biology with a medical concentration.
Jessica graduated from East Tennessee State University Bill Gatton College
of Pharmacy, earning the doctor of pharmacy degree. She served as class vicepresident, and was a founding member of Kappa Psi pharmaceutical fraternity.
Jessica was one of 65 students, nationwide, selected as a “National Walmart Scholar.”
Upon graduation, she received the “Mylan Pharmaceuticals Excellence in Pharmacy
Award” for excellence in pharmacy practice.
She completed a first-year pharmacy practice residency at the University of
Tennessee Medical Center, and a second-year specialized residency in internal
medicine with a secondary focus in academia at the East Tennessee State University
Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy. Jessica currently serves as an Assistant Professor of
Pharmacy Practice at Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy. She was voted Outstanding
Clinical Preceptor and Outstanding Teacher, and was accepted into Leadership
2015. She is pursuing research in the area of rural health disparities and the impact
on treatment regimens for various disease states, including lung cancer. She also
has plans to pursue research in pharmacy education initiatives, which she hopes
will serve and bring better healthcare to the people of Northeast Tennessee and
Southwest Virginia.
JOHNESHIA TASHIA GOOD
Class of 2013
a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Milligan College, Alumna
Johneshia is a Johnson City resident and a graduate
of Science Hill High School. Her parents are John and
Tracy Good.
In her freshman year, Johneshia attended East Tennessee State University. She
was a member of the Lady Buccaneer’s basketball team. She was selected on the AllAtlantic Sun Academic Team. In college, Johneshia has been active in her community
through her volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity, Premier Pediatrics, Asbury
Place of Johnson City, the Johnson City Parks and Recreation Department, the
Niswonger Children’s Hospital, and the Johnson City Downtown Clinic.
Johneshia transferred to Milligan College in her sophomore year where she
graduated with a degree in biology. She continued her basketball career while at
Milligan. In her senior year she was named Co-Conference Player of the Year,
Defensive Player of the Year, and Honorable Mention All-American. Johneshia
volunteered with United Emmaus Community of Johnson City.
She is currently pursuing a bachelor of science in nursing at East Tennessee
State University.
CHELSEA LEIGH-ANN GOODSON
Class of 2010
University of Tennessee, Alumna
Chelsea is from Greeneville and is a graduate of
Greeneville High School. She is the daughter of Donna
Goodson. Chelsea graduated magna cum laude from the
University of Tennessee with a degree in finance.
She was the Student Government Association
business school senator and campus beautification director, and served as comembership chair of the UT dance society. She was inducted into Mortar Board
honor society and served as secretary. Chelsea completed over three years as an
intern with the United States Secret Service.
Chelsea is a District Manager with Aldi, Inc., a leading company in the
international grocery retailing industry. She manages store operations for four Aldi
locations in East Tennessee.
BARBARA “TAYLOR” ASHBY GRINDSTAFF
Class of 2012
Carson Newman University, pursuing
a Masters in School Counseling
East Tennessee State University, Alumna
Taylor is originally from Dandridge, where she
attended Jefferson County High School. She is the daughter
of Michael and Jill Ashby. Taylor began her college career
at Clemson University before transferring to East Tennessee State University. She
graduated magna cum laude from ETSU with a Bachelor’s of Science in psychology
and a minor in sociology.
She was inducted into Sigma Alpha Lambda honor society. She completed
a study abroad experience in Queensland, Australia, receiving an academic
scholarship to study at the University of the Sunshine Coast.
Taylor is pursuing a master’s degree in School Counseling at Carson Newman
University where she also works as a graduate assistant. She is married to Nick
Grindstaff and has a son, Brayden.
DR. ASHLEY MORGAN HAMMER
Class of 2006
Drexel University, Alumna,
Doctor of Medicine (M.D.)
Emory University, Alumna
Morgan is from Greeneville, where she graduated
from Greeneville High School. She is the daughter of
Teresa Hammer and Dennis Hammer.
Morgan majored in chemistry at Emory University. While at Emory, she
was frequently named to both the Honors List and the Dean’s List. Morgan was
named the organic chemistry “Teaching Assistant of the Year” for her work during
her senior year. She became the vice president of Circle K and did numerous
volunteer activities through this organization. Morgan completed an internship as a
research assistant in the neuroscience department at the University of Medicine and
Dentistry of New Jersey.
Morgan graduated from Drexel University College of Medicine in 2011. She is
a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society. In her senior year of
medical school she received the Leadership in OB/Gyn award and the Community
Experience Award. She is currently in her second year of residency at Drexel
University/Hahnemann Hospital in Philadelphia. In her first year of residency she
received the Medical Student Teaching Award.
On her time with the Niswonger Foundation, Morgan states, “Participation
in the leadership training sessions really helped me to foster my leadership abilities
and public speaking skills over the years. It is always nice to know that I have such a
supportive group of people behind me at all times as I start my career in medicine.”
KYLE WESLEY HOLLIDAY
Class of 2009
Ohio Wesleyan University, Alumnus
Kyle was named a “Graduate of Distinction” at Van
Wert High School in his hometown of Van Wert, Ohio. He
is the son of Mike and Betty Holliday. He graduated from
Ohio Wesleyan University with a degree in accounting.
Kyle served as president of the university’s chapter
of Phi Delta Theta fraternity. He was captain of the OWU basketball team, and
was named “NCAC Scholar-Athlete of the Year.” In addition, ESPN The Magazine
named him “Academic All-America 2nd Team,” and he received a NCAA
postgraduate scholarship. He was also a member of Sigma Beta Delta business
honorary society and completed internships with Central Insurance Company and
J. Richard Sealscott, CPA.
Kyle began his accountancy career with GBQ Partners LLC, in Columbus,
Ohio. He went on to work as a staff accountant with Hemphill and Associates, Inc.,
in Columbus, working with not-for-profit organizations. He is currently a financial
accountant for the Chipotle Mexican Grill corporation. He and his wife Sarah reside
in Delaware, Ohio.
EMILY ROSE HOLLINGSWORTH
Class of 2011
Belmont University, Alumna
A native of Sevierville, Emily was salutatorian
of her class at Gatlinburg-Pittman High School. She is
the daughter of Russ and Chris Hollingsworth. Emily
graduated magna cum laude from Belmont University
with a BBA in entrepreneurship.
Emily was awarded the “SIFE Service Leadership Award,” and the “Beta
Gamma Sigma Scholarship Award”. She was also a member of the Students in Free
Enterprise (SIFE) national championship team. She served as the team administrator,
vice president and a team presenter. Emily spent the 2009 spring semester in Dublin,
Ireland, studying at the Quinn School of Business at University College Dublin.
Emily completed two small-business internships in her senior year. She developed
a business plan for a mattress recycling company in partnership with SIFE team,
and participated in the TCU Values and Ventures competition, winning first place.
Emily is currently working as the merchandise manager for Show Hope,
a nonprofit ministry founded by Steven Curtis Chapman that seeks to provide
families for the world’s orphans through adoption aid and orphan care ministries.
DIRECTORY OF ALUMNI
ELIZABETH ‘LIZZIE’ ANN JONES
Class of 2013
Clemson University, Alumna
Elizabeth, the daughter of David and Ann Jones,
graduated from Science Hill High School in Johnson
City. She went on to graduate magna cum laude with
Departmental Honors from Clemson University earning
a BS degree in Mechanical Engineering. While at Clemson she was a member of
the Calhoun Honors College, Alpha Lambda Delta honor society, Golden Key
International Honor Society, National Society of Collegiate Scholars and the
mechanical engineering honors fraternity, Pi Tau Sigma.
Elizabeth participated in an automotive engineering study abroad experience
in Esslingen, Germany. She accomplished Milliken & Company’s “Summer
Challenge” with an internship in Engineering Services. Elizabeth completed her
honors undergraduate research at the Clemson University International Center
for Automotive Research in Integrating Light-Weight Automotive Materials:
Automotive Component Manufacturing in Titanium. She published and presented
a conference paper at American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
Manufacturing Engineering and Science Conference (MSEC) in Madison,
Wisconsin.
Elizabeth recently began her career at Eastman Chemical Company as a
mechanical engineer.
JORDAN LAKOTA KIM
Class of 2012
the Doctor of Medicine (M.D.)
University of Tennessee, Alumnus
As a native of Morristown, Jordan attended
Morristown West High School. He is the son of Willie Kim
and Mary Garrison. Jordan is a graduate of the University
of Tennessee. He majored in microbiology with a pre-medical curriculum.
He was a member of Phi Sigma Theta National Honor Society and the National
Society of Collegiate Scholars. He earned a nationally registered Emergency Medical
Technician (EMT) certification after completing intensive training in California.
Jordan completed a service abroad experience in Ghana, Africa as an EMT
volunteer. He received a summer undergraduate research internship to work for the
director of the University of Tennessee microbiology department’s laboratory. His
responsibility was to conduct research regarding yeast cells and protein receptors.
Jordan is attending the East Tennessee State University Quillen College of
Medicine with an interest in specializing in trauma surgery.
JASON DAVID LIGHT
Class of 2013
Jason, the son of David and Janet Light, graduated
as valedictorian of Sullivan Central High School. He is
a graduate of the University of Tennessee with a degree
in electrical engineering with a minor in Reliability and
Maintainability Engineering. He is a Chancellor’s Honors
Scholar, and served as president of IEEE-HKN Honor Society (Eta Kappa Nu).
Jason completed a study abroad experience in Rome, Italy, focusing on the History
of Ancient Rome and Italy.
He also completed an internship at Eastman Chemical Company, where he
worked in a group of electrical engineers who specialize in power. The group is
responsible for all of the high voltage power at Eastman, a 170 Megawatt company.
For two years, during summer and winter breaks, Jason worked as a fiber optics
engineering intern with Bristol Tennessee Essential Services (BTES).
Jason is currently employed at Eastman Chemical Company as an Electrical
Engineer.
LAWRENCE ‘LAW’ WAYNE LOVING III
Class of 2012
East Tennessee State University, pursuing a
Master’s in Business Administration, (M.B.A.)
Tulane University, Alumnus
Law is from Johnson City and attended University
High School. He is the son of Wayne and Ruth Loving.
Law graduated magna cum laude from Tulane University
with a degree in public health and economics.
He was the Tulane club baseball president, a member of Student Alumni
Ambassadors and the Tulane Honors Program. He held positions as a research
assistant for Grand Isle Erosion Project and as a resident assistant and residence hall
manager for Tulane housing and residence life. He has completed internships with
the Department of Homeland Security in Seattle, Washington, and at a local hospital
in New Orleans in a Nursing Administration Department. He was accepted into
Tulane’s prestigious Mortar Board society.
Law currently works in Jonesborough for Smarty Pants, a market research
company that focuses on children and family products. In his role as a quantitative
analyst, he programs surveys and analyzes data, to help clients make informed
business decisions. He is also pursuing an MBA at East Tennessee State University.
DOROTHY ‘ELIZABETH’ LOY
Class of 2009
University of Pennsylvania, School
of Medicine, pursuing MD/PhD
University of Pennsylvania, Alumna
Elizabeth, daughter of Rev. Dennis Loy and Dr.
Beth Vanlandingham, graduated as valedictorian from
University High School in Johnson City. She completed
her pre-medical undergraduate education at the University of Pennsylvania.
At Penn she was captain of the Women’s Rugby team, director of scholarship for
Alpha Phi sorority, and child life volunteer at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
Elizabeth worked in a pediatric genetics research laboratory with Dr. Ian Krantz.
She completed a study abroad experience at the University of Botswana.
Elizabeth worked for two years in a dermatology research lab at Johns Hopkins
College of Medicine where she studied wound healing and hair follicle regeneration
in the skin. She is currently pursuing the MD/PhD degree at the University of
Pennsylvania in preparation for a career as a physician-scientist.
SEAN MICHAEL MCCULLOUGH
Class of 2011
University of Notre Dame, Alumnus
A resident of Dandridge, Sean graduated from
Jefferson County High School and is the son of Mike and
Betty McCullough. Sean graduated from the University of
Notre Dame with a degree in marketing.
While at Notre Dame he was a member of the varsity
cheerleading team, a founding member of the competitive waterski team, and
served as a campus tour guide. He volunteered as a tutor/mentor at St. Joseph’s High
School. He was also a representative for Universal Pictures campus publicity and
marketing, and Coca-Cola on-campus marketing. He completed an internship as
an international market analyst with Allison Transmission in Indianapolis, Indiana.
After graduation, Sean spent two years as a Global Market Analyst at Allison
Transmission. He is currently employed as a Senior Research Analyst for Nielsen
BASES Innovation Analytics in Chicago, Illinois.
ADAM JOSHUA MILLER
Class of 2008
East Tennesee State University, Alumnus,
Master’s of Business Administration (M.B.A.)
Tusculum College, Alumnus
Adam is a native of Hampton, where he graduated as
valedictorian from Hampton High School. He is the son of
Sandra Wallace-Mercer and Joseph Miller. He graduated
cum laude from Tusculum College with a degree in business administration.
Adam served as the chair of the constitution committee of the Student
Government Association and was a resident advisor. He completed an internship
with Mazer Corporation, in Johnson City.
Adam received his master’s in business administration from East Tennessee
State University. He is currently employed as a business systems analyst and
software developer at Enhanced Systems Consulting, Inc., in Johnson City.
RACHEL ANN MIXON
Class of 2011
Purdue University, Alumna
From her hometown of Rogersville, Rachel
graduated as valedictorian at Cherokee High School. She
is the daughter of Wayne and Julie Couch. Rachel obtained
her bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from
Purdue University.
She served as a mathematics tutor for high school calculus with the 21st
Century Scholars program, and was inducted into Sigma Alpha Lambda, a serviceoriented honorary society. She completed a study abroad program in Shanghai,
China studying Mandarin, thermodynamics, global communication, and materials
sciences at Jiao Tong University.
Rachel is employed with Chrysler LLC in Kokomo, Indiana, where she has
served as Early Equipment Management Specialist for the launch team working
towards Chrysler’s 9 speed transmission (the world’s first). She currently serves as a
process engineer for the plant.
SARA ELIZABETH SMITH NOE
Class of 2008
Carson-Newman University, Alumna
Sara is from Mohawk and graduated as valedictorian
from West Greene High School. She is the daughter of
William and Donita Smith. Sara graduated summa cum
laude from Carson-Newman University with a degree in
elementary education.
She was inducted into the honor societies of Alpha Chi and Kappa Delta Pi.
Sara was named the college’s “Outstanding Student Teacher.”
Sarah taught three years at Union Heights Elementary School in Hamblen
County. She is involved with the youth at her church. She resides in Russellville with
her husband Russell and daughter Jenna.
ADRIANA MARIA PENALBA
Class of 2010
Georgetown University, Alumna
Adriana, the daughter of Cesar and Donna Penalba,
is from Whitesburg. She graduated first in her class from
Morristown East High School. She graduated from Georgetown
University with a degree in accounting and finance.
Adriana was a varsity cheerleader. She volunteered as a tutor for immigrant
children for the D.C. Schools Project, and completed a study abroad semester in
Barcelona, Spain.
After graduation, Adriana worked as a staff accountant for Coulter and Justus,
PC, in Knoxville and as a senior tax accountant at Deloitte in Charlotte, North
Carolina. She is currently working as a tax accountant at DGLF CPAs and Business
Advisers in Nashville, Tennessee.
VIRGINIA HINES PFEIFER
Class of 2007
George Washington University, Alumna,
Master’s in Public Health (M.P.H.)
Boston University, Alumna
From Johnson City, Virginia is a graduate of Science
Hill High School. She is the daughter of Ron and Shirley
Hines. She graduated from Boston University, where she
earned degrees in political science and international relations.
Virginia was accepted into the honors program at Oxford University. She
served as coxswain for the men’s freshman crew team and as a first-year student
outreach project coordinator. Virginia completed an internship with Dutko
Worldwide, while studying in Washington, D.C.
She completed a master’s degree in public health at the George Washington
University School of Public Health and Health Services. Her coursework focused
primarily on national health policy issues and health issues facing minority
populations. During her master’s program, she was employed at the George
Washington University Hospital as a patient access coordinator. She is currently
employed by Corporate Executive Board (CEB), in Washington, D.C., as a Senior
Analyst. Virginia and her husband Chris live in Arlington, Virginia.
RIAN CARL RAINEY
Class of 2010
The Ohio State University, Alumnus
Rian is from Van Wert, Ohio, where he was a “Graduate
of Distinction” at Van Wert High School. He is the son of
Deborah and Richard Ford and the late Terry Rainey. Rian
is a graduate of The Ohio State University with a degree in
computer science, engineering and entrepreneurship.
He was named Ohio State’s “Outstanding First Year Student” and “Outstanding
Greek New Member.” He served as his fraternity’s vice president for communications
and senior marshal for judicial affairs. He was selected as one of 60 national applicants
for intensive leadership training at the Ruck Leadership Institute in Richmond,
Virginia. He completed a study abroad experience at Nantes Ecole de Management in
Nantes, France. He completed internships with ABB, Inc., in Cleveland, Ohio; Apple,
Inc., in California; and QStart Labs, in Columbus, Ohio.
After graduation, Rian began his career as an engineering consultant at
Accenture, a technology consulting firm. He is currently lead web engineer at
Buckeye Interactive. Rian’s wife, Maryann, is pursuing a graduate degree at Vanderbilt
University. Rian and Maryann reside in Nashville.
DIRECTORY OF ALUMNI
BRANDON TODD REESER
Class of 2009
Emory University, Alumnus, Doctor
of Jurisprudence (J.D.)
Furman University, Alumnus
Brandon is from Johnson City and the son of Janice
Reeser. He graduated valedictorian from Elizabethton
High School and from Furman University with degrees in
history, philosophy and Asian studies.
While at Furman, Brandon was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa Society, served
as Philanthropy Chairman for Furman’s chapter of Sigma Nu fraternity. During his
junior year, he studied abroad at Kansai Gaikokugo Daigaku in Osaka, Japan. After
graduation, Brandon accepted a position in Greenville, South Carolina with the law
firm of Wyche, Burgess, Freeman & Parham P.A.
Brandon graduated from Emory University School of Law. While at Emory,
Brandon has clerked for the Supreme Court of Tennessee in the Chambers of The
Honorable Gary R. Wade and The Honorable Sharon G. Lee as well as the United
States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia in the chambers of The
Honorable Richard W. Story. Following graduation at Emory, Brandon is serving
as a Law Clerk to The Honorable G. Thomas Cooper in Columbia, South Carolina.
MOZIANO ‘TREY’ SAMUEL RELIFORD
Class of 2010
Stanford Law School, pursuing the
Sewanee: The University of the South, Alumnus
Trey is originally from Strawberry Plains. He
graduated from Jefferson County High School and is the
son of Moze and Brenda Reliford. Trey graduated from
Sewanee: The University of the South, with a degree in history and political science.
Trey was inducted into the Order of the Gownsmen and served as a member
of the Lectures Committee. He was a member of Pi Sigma Alpha Honor Society,
the Phi Alpha Theta History Honor Society, one of two Honors History Scholars,
and an “Edward King History Scholar.” Trey has completed internships with
Knoxville Mayor (now, Tennessee Governor), Bill Haslam, with the Morgan Square
Development Group, and with the Oak Ridge Associated Universities. He completed
a study abroad in China and Thailand, with a focus on economic development.
Trey is currently attending Stanford University College of Law studying
criminal law, white collar crime and securities litigation. He serves as a Section
Representative in the Stanford Law Association, Executive Board Member of the
Stanford National Security and the Law Society. He is the Corporate Relations Chair
of the Black Law Students Association, Membership Co-Chair for Stanford’s chapter
of the American Constitutional Society, a competitor in Stanford’s prestigious
Kirkwood Moot Court Competition and is a volunteer with the Pro Bono program.
Trey is the captain of the Class of 2015’s IM Football team and a member of the IM
basketball and soccer teams. He completed a summer job as an associate with Paul,
Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton and Garrison, LLP in New York.
Carson Newman University, where he studied biology and chemistry with a focus
on a pre-medical curriculum.
He was the president of the Tri-Beta Biological Honor Society and served
as vice president of Alpha Chi. He studied in Cuernavaca, Mexico, where he was
enrolled in advanced Spanish for medical professionals.
Ethan received his M.D. degree from the University of Tennessee-Memphis
College of Medicine. He is currently completing a residency program in
anesthesiology in St. Louis, Missouri.
ABIGAIL LAUREN RICICA
Class of 2010
Macquarie University, Alumna,
Master’s in Wildlife Conservation
Ohio Wesleyan University, Alumna
Abigail is from Van Wert, Ohio and is an alumna
of Van Wert High School. She is the daughter of Dyann
Balyeat Ricica. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan
University with a degree in Pre-Professional Zoology.
As a member of Delta Zeta Sorority, she served as Vice President of
Recruitment, helping Delta Zeta reach a ten-year membership record. She was a
member of Order of Omega, a national Greek honor society.
Abigail completed a master’s degree in wildlife conservation at Macquarie
University, in Australia. She plans to pursue a career that combines her commitment
to the environment and passion for community outreach.
IAN CHARLES SAMS
Class of 2011
University of Alabama, Alumnus
Ian is from Johnson City, where he graduated with
honors from Providence Academy. He is the son of Rob
and Pam Sams. Ian graduated, summa cum laude, from the
University of Alabama with a degree in political science.
He was initiated into Phi Beta Kappa honorary,
received the Most Outstanding Senior award, and was named a Fellow in the
Prestigious Blackburn Institute. He taught a freshman seminar course in the Honors
College on current events, and was the only student involved in the development
of a campus-wide minor in public policy. He served as an SGA Senator and as
SGA Communications Director. He also served as Communications Director for
the statewide Alabama Federation of College Democrats and was president of the
UA College Democrats. He completed internships with the Democratic Senatorial
Campaign Committee (DSCC) in Washington, D.C., the Regional Alliance for
Economic Development (TN/VA) and the Niswonger Foundation. He also completed
a study abroad experience in Brussels, Belgium, where he studied international
alliances and the European court system.
Ian worked for two years in Washington, D. C. as Press Secretary for U.S. Senator
Tom Carper (Delaware). He is currently serving as regional press secretary for the
Democratic National Committee in Washington.
DR. ETHAN EMERSON REYNOLDS
Class of 2006
University of Tennessee-Memphis,
Alumnus, Doctor of Medicine (M.D.)
Carson-Newman University, Alumnus
BRADY ‘COLE’ SEATON
Class of 2009
the Doctor of Medicine (M.D.)
Ethan is a native of Greeneville, where he graduated
from Greeneville High School. He is the son of Kay
Reynolds and the late David Reynolds. He is a graduate of
Cole is a native of Greeneville and a graduate
of Greeneville High School. He is the son of Lloyd
and Carolyn Seaton. Cole graduated from Vanderbilt
University with a degree in biomedical engineering. He was president of Alpha Tau
Omega fraternity and vice president of the Biomedical Engineering Society.
Upon graduation, Cole accepted a position as a clinical research coordinator
at the Knoxville Kidney Center. He is now a medical school student at the East
Tennessee State University Quillen College of Medicine. He has been named a
Quillen Medical Scholar each year. Cole will begin a residency in radiology next
spring. He and his wife Lyndsey reside in Johnson City.
BRANDI MARIE RICKER SHELNUTT
Class of 2008
Carson-Newman University, Alumna, Master’s
in Counseling/School Counseling (M.S.)
University of Michigan, Alumna
Brandi is from Paulding, Ohio, where she graduated
from Paulding High School with highest honors. She is
the daughter of Dixie Ricker and Kenneth and Lisa Ricker.
Brandi graduated with a degree in education from the University of Michigan.
She enjoyed being a study group leader for chemistry, serving on the program
board for Women in Science and Engineering, and being a part of Good News, an a
cappella group, during her undergraduate career.
Brandi completed three years as a middle school science teacher at ChuckeyDoak Middle School where she also served as director of the CDMS Drama Club.
She also participates in the Tusculum College Arts Outreach program. Brandi
completed a master’s degree in counseling/school counseling at Carson-Newman
University. She is currently employed as a chemistry teacher at Greeneville High
School. She has also started her own photography business. She and her husband
Jeremy live in Greeneville.
TODD BLAKELY SKELTON
Class of 2010
University of Tennessee, pursuing
dual J.D./M.B.A.
Todd is a resident of Surgoinsville and was named
valedictorian of Volunteer High School. He is the son
of Mark and Joanna Skelton. Todd graduated from the
University of Tennessee with a degree in the College Scholars Program, with an
emphasis in business law and corporate governance.
Todd received the “Torchbearer Award,” which is the highest undergraduate
student honor at UT. He served as the Honors Council president, Honors
Ambassador president, and as an SGA senator. He also served on the Provost
Student Advisory Committee and was the founding editor-in-chief of Pursuit: The
Journal of Undergraduate Research at the University of Tennessee. He completed an
internship with U.S. Senator Bob Corker. He completed study abroad experiences
in China, England and France.
Todd is currently at the University of Tennessee College of Law in the dual
J.D./M.B.A. program. His Law concentration is in Business Transactions and the
M.B.A. concentration is in Finance. He completed a clerkship at Baker, Donelson,
Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz and Burr & Forman. He was Runner-Up in the
2012 Advocates’ Prize Moot Court Competition of which the final round was
presided over by U.S. Supreme Court Justice Elena Kagan and five judges from
the U. S. Court of Appeals. Todd also served as portfolio manager for the Haslam
Torch Fund. He recently studied abroad in Chile. He is the Executive Editor of
Transactions: Tennessee Journal of Business Law and is a Student Materials Editor
for the Tennessee Law Review. He received the 2012 Chancellor’s Citation for
Extraordinary Campus Leadership.
MEREDITH WACHS STEVANS
Class of 2010
American University, Alumna, Master’s of Arts
in Teaching (M.A.T.), Secondary Mathematics
College of William and Mary, Alumna
Meredith is a native of Mountain City, graduating
from Johnson County High School as valedictorian. She
is the daughter of Peter and Joy Wachs. She is a graduate of the College of William
and Mary, where she earned a degree in mathematics and English. Meredith earned
her master of arts in teaching degree, with a focus on secondary mathematics, at
American University in Washington, DC.
She was a member of Phi Beta Kappa honor society, serving as service chair
for the Mortar Board honorary, fundraising chair of Phi Sigma Pi honor fraternity,
and received the “Cissy Patterson Prize” for mathematics. She completed internships
with the Niswonger Foundation and the Johnson County School System. Meredith
traveled to Qwa Qwa, South Africa with a service team from the College of William
and Mary. This group assisted a preschool in a remote village.
As a Math for America Fellow, she is entering her third year teaching 7th
grade math at Hardy Middle School, a DC public school. After she has fulfilled her
four-year obligation to the Math for America program, Meredith looks forward to
returning to East Tennessee. She is married to Mark Stevans.
JESSICA LEE VERRAN-LINGARD
Class of 2010
Stanford Law School, pursuing the
Jessica is from Johnson City and is a graduate of
Science Hill High School, where she was valedictorian.
She is the daughter of Pam Verran and Henry Lingard.
Jessica graduated with honors from Vanderbilt University with degrees in political
science and mathematics.
She was a Chancellor’s Scholar and a member of Phi Beta Kappa honor society.
Jessica also completed a year-long study abroad program at the University of Oxford,
St. Catherine’s College.
Jessica is attending the Stanford University College of Law. She serves as
development editor for the Stanford Law and Policy Review, a member of the Black
Law Students’ Association, a volunteer in the StreetLaw program, and a singer
and dancer in the Law School Musical. She has worked as a Summer Associate at
Bradley, Arant, Boult, Cummings, LLP, in Nashville. She is a member of Stanford’s
Youth and Education Clinic, gaining the opportunity to work with disadvantaged
youth and their communities to ensure that they have access to equal and excellent
educational opportunities. Jessica is focusing on intellectual property, particularly
involving the music industry.
BRITTANY MARIE VOGT
Class of 2008
Bucknell University, Alumna
Brittany is a native of Jonesborough and a graduate
of Science Hill High School. She is the daughter of John
and Diane Vogt. Brittany graduated magna cum laude
from Bucknell University. She majored in classics and
comparative humanities.
She founded Music Mania, an after-school musical education program for
children in the rural Susquehanna Valley of Pennsylvania. She studied in Europe for
DIRECTORY OF ALUMNI
a year, in Edinburgh, Scotland and Athens, Greece. Brittany completed internships
with the Court Appointed Special Advocates of Washington and Greene Counties,
and with the East Tennessee State University track & field department.
Brittany has worked at XLNT Foods in San Diego, California and as an Animal
Care and Volunteer Supervisor of Adoptions at Helen Woodward Animal Center in
Rancho Santa Fe, California. She is currently working at Storybrook Farm Bed &
Breakfast in Jonesborough as a marketing director.
JOSEPH ‘JOE’ LANDON WATSON
Class of 2007
University of Tennessee, Alumnus,
Furman University, Alumnus
Joe is originally from Greeneville, where he
graduated from Greeneville High School. He is the son of
Gerald Watson; and Shirley Watson-Johnston and Lanny
Johnston. Joe graduated summa cum laude with a degree in political science from
Furman University.
He was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa, was named the Furman “Male ScholarAthlete of the Year,” and was Furman’s candidate for the Rhodes Scholarship. Joe
completed internships with the Steve Henry Law Firm and the Furman Political
Science Department. He completed a study abroad program in Italy.
Joe is a graduate of the University of Tennessee College of Law. He was a
graduate assistant for the U.T. football program and worked with the U.S. Attorney’s
office in Knoxville. Joe is currently in Nashville, Tennessee, as an associate working
in the Trial and Appellate Litigation group for Waller, Lansden, Dortch and Davis.
Joe recently helped organize a charity golf tournament for a local scholarship
foundation and was a volunteer instructor at the Jason Witten football camp in
Elizabethton.
ELIZABETH BATSON WILLIAMS
Class of 2006
Emory University, Alumna
Elizabeth is originally from Greeneville, where
she graduated from Greeneville High School. She is the
daughter of Don and Lynn Batson. Elizabeth graduated
from Emory University with a degree in English.
She assisted with the reestablishment of the Circle
K Club, serving as its president. She worked with Volunteer Emory, focusing on
the needs of the disabled, young students. As an SGA senator, she formed a special
group committed to making Emory more environmentally conscious.
After working in retail management for two large companies, Elizabeth and
her family have moved to Johnson City where she is currently working with her
husband to start an engineering business, E3 Engineering and Design. She is involved
in the Junior League of Johnson City, serving on their fundraising committee, and
her plans are to return to graduate school. Elizabeth, her husband Wes and daughter
Charlotte live in Johnson City.
KATIE ELIZABETH WILLIAMS
Class of 2008
Arizona State University, Alumna, Master’s
in Elementary Education (M.Ed.)
University of Tennessee, Alumna
A native of Elizabethton, Katie graduated as
valedictorian from Unaka High School. She is the
daughter of Donald and Judy Williams. Katie graduated
with a degree in public relations from the University of Tennessee.
She served as vice president of the Honors Council and received two
Chancellor’s Honors citations. Katie completed an honors thesis entitled “Poverty
in Paradise: Jamaica’s Disabled and Orphaned Youth,” inspired by her service trip
to Jamaica’s west end. She received the “Exhibition of Undergraduate Research and
Creative Achievement Award” for her book of Holocaust poetry and watercolors
entitled “Our Night: A Constellation of Poems and Illustrations Inspired by
Holocaust Literature”. Katie completed internships with First Tennessee Bank and
Teach for America. She completed study abroad programs in France and China.
Katie received a master’s in elementary education from Arizona State
University. She completed two years of service as a teacher in a low-income area of
Phoenix, Arizona, with the Teach for America program. Katie has taught English
in China and served as principal of an English school in Thailand. She is currently
working with a tech start up called eFaqt in Amsterdam, Holland as an International
Marketing Manager.
RACHEL GABRIELLE WITT
Class of 2012
Rachel, the daughter of Donna Witt, was
valedictorian of her class at Johnson County High
School. She graduated from Vanderbilt University with
departmental honors in anthropology and a second major
in art history.
She served as president of the Anthropology Club, and participated on the
Arts and Science Undergraduate Advisory Board. Rachel completed an internship
at the Gray Fossil Site and Museum, and study abroad programs in Peru and Italy.
She conducted independent research in Peru for her senior honors thesis titled, “The
Health Profile of a Mortuary Skeletal Sample from Hualcayan: A Bioarchaeological
Perspective of a Middle Horizon Tomb from the north-central highlands, Peru.” She
presented her summer research at the Andean bioarchaeology poster session at the
Society for American Archaeology 77th Annual Meeting. Rachel presented her art
history research entitled, “One Final Message: The Painted Programs of Alexandrian
Tombs” in the writing studio undergraduate symposium. Her art history research
was also published in the annual Vanderbilt Undergraduate Research Journal.
After graduation from Vanderbilt, Rachel served as an assistant field school
instructor with the PIARA (Proyecto de Investigacion Arqueologico Regional
Ancash), an archaeological field school in the north-central Andes of Peru. Rachel’s
future plans include attending graduate school and earning her master’s and Ph.D.
in bioarchaeology. She hopes to eventually be a professor and continue her research
in anthropology.
Board Officers
SCOTT M. NISWONGER
President and Founder
NIKKI L. NISWONGER
Secretary
Foundation Staff
DR. NANCY DISHNER
Executive Vice President
BARBARA BATES
Executive Assistant
KATHY O’DELL
Office Manager
Niswonger Foundation
16 Gilland Street
P.O. Box 5112
Tusculum College
Greeneville, Tennessee 37743
(423) 798-7837
www.niswongerfoundation.org

2013-2014 Directory of Scholars

Transcription

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