"
1 T~row:.7j . Harding University· Searcy, Ark. Volume 79 Editor-in-Chief Renee Lewis Photographers April Clem Russ Phillips Lindsey Taliaferro Melissa Wilson Adviser Jim Miller
Junior Jonathan Stonnent and senior Nate Dutile catch up with eachotherinthestudentcenteraftersummervacation before classes started in August. A number of students arrived on campus ear1y to participate in Student Impact, music camps, athletic practices and other activities. (Photo by April Clem) • • 2 opening
Oon Mclaughlin, preacher at N. Attanta Church of Christ in Atlanta,Ga.,speakstostudentsattheannual AJI·Schooi Retreat Aug. 23. Mclaughlinpleadedwiththose in attendanceto letGod work through them on the mission field. (Photo by Russell Phillips) one year, Freshman Gwen Jackson strums her guitar on the front lawn. The front lawn served as a mecca for student recreation andfellowshipthroughouttheyear.(Photo by April Clem) one step, Freshman Julie Fitzgerald studies by the lily pool. Through classes, chapel and personal relationships, students strove to become their ideal person. (Photo by April Clem) one closer I As they began the year, freshmen and transfers were unaware of the strides that most were about to make towards becoming more mature Christians. They started down the college road with Stud~nt Impact. Focused on the theme, "Follow Me," Impact leaders presented to new students the idea that Christ was calling them to follow Him. "The theme was an act, in a way, for us to show the new students that we need to follow Christ in all that we do," junior Larry Holliman, Im– pact co-director, said. From then on, freshmen and transfers were introduced, sometimes for the first time, to a Christian lifestyle that was an every day adven– ture. "Harding has helped me have a more personal relationship with God," freshman Cynthia Noah said. "I've become more aware of who I am." a bit closer. Dr. Monte Cox, associate professor of Bible, shares his Ihoughts Aug. 26. The Col· lege Church of Christ sponsored the gospel meeting in anattempttobring students closer to Christ. (Photo by Lindsey Taliaferro) opening 3
A little muddy himself, senior Troy Helton hoses down Silly Olympics participants during Student Impact Aug. 18. Newstudents pounced on the opportunity to relish in activities such as tug-of-war and the slip 'n' slide. (Photo by lindsey Taliaferro) Freshman Micah Thomason belts out Aerosmith's "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" at Karaoke Night Sept. 20 in the student center. More than 200 students packed into the lounge area to witness their peers show– case their talents at the Student Activities Committee-sponsored event. (Photo by Renee Lewis) • • 4 opening
• closer New and returning students alike embarked upon a brand new year, one that held new experiences and opportunities that led students closer to their dreams, aspirations and, hopefully, their creator. Some took steps forward, some took steps back– ward. Regardless of the direction, lessons were learned. "I think in some areas I've taken really, big steps," sophomore KimTaylor said. "I hope that I never be– come too content with my Christianity. There will al– ways be steps that I need to take to improve my rela– tionship with God." InMay, when the dorm rooms emptied, students looked back on the previous nine months and saw that they stepped into a different frame of mind both emo– tionally and spiritually. "In the past year, my relationship with God has grown to a level that I didn't know was possible," sophomore Sara Bukovatz said. Freshman Hannah Davidson and seniors laurenGilbert and Zac Lambrecht share ideas for the year at the watermelon party Aug. 21 . Lambrecht, who served as the Student Association President this year, challenged the student body to make a difference in the world, both on and off-campus. (Photo by Russell Phillips) opening 5 om .
_ . 6 dedication Dr.Neale Pryor, distinguished professorof Bible, addresses the crowd" at the dedication ceremony for Pryor Hall Oct. 26. Pryor, who has received the Distinguished Teacher Award three times, includ– ing 2002, became Harding's 11 th Distinguished Professor. (Photo by Renee Lewis) I
Dr. Pryor figures grades for the fall semester. Back in the ctassroom full time for his 4p t year at Harding, Pryor taught both upper and lower level classes. (Photo by Renee Lewis) closer Those who knew Dr. Neale Pryor, distin– 'guished professor of Bible and the recipient of the 2003Petit Jean dedication, said he did more than just teach. Pryor began teaching Bible in 1962.In2001 he returned to the classroomfull time after serving as vice president for academic affairs for 18 years. Sophomore Reynard Graham called Pryor a man of wisdom because of his ability to make most aspects of the Bible understandable for students. "He comes down to a level with the stu– dents," Grahamsaid. "He makes it more under– standable. Thewayhe teaches, everyone should be able to understand it." InMay 2002, the board of trustees decided to honor Pryor and his wife, Treva, by naming the new girls' dorm after the couple. At the dedication ceremony for Pryor Hall Oct. 26, board members, faculty, staff and stu– dents showed their love for the Pryors. With a Christ-like spirit, Pryor accepted the honor. "Thank you for loving us," Pryor said to the crowd at the dedication ceremony. "Thank you for working with us. Thank you for honoring us. Thank you for a day we will never forget." Honoring his Christ-like spirit, the senior class chose Pryor to be the recipient of the 2003 Petit Jean dedication. dedication 7 • •
• Five-day program aids new students in transition to college life and helps to begin their new spiritual Journeys Hypnotized to believe she is in a kin– dergarten class, seniorTaylor Davis sticks out her tongue at the hypnotist. Davis, co– director of Student impact, worked many hours throughout the summer to ensure the new students' transition to college would run smoothly. (Photo by April Clem) Freshman Chance Snider, covered with mud and soap suds, glides across the slip 'n' slide at the SillyOlympics Aug. 18. Incoming freshmen and transfer students enjoyed this opportunity to meet new people while getting messy and playing games. (Photo by Chrissy Ingram) • • 10 student life of ct Butch Gardner, director of minor– ity student services, asswned the added role of director of First Year Experience this fall. This was his first year to direct the new office, which was responsible for organizing all orientation programs, including Student Impact. "This was basically a learning ex– perience for me, to relearn what was going on w ith the program," said Gardner, who had worked with thepro– gram more than 10 years ago when he worked in theOffice ofStudentServioes. The overall goal of Student Impact was to help new students in their tran– sition from high school to college. It alsoaimed at helping transfer students adjust to the new phase of their lives. "It helped me to see some familiar faces when classes started," freshman Kari Kiser said. "I still see those people around a lot. One of them is my really good friend, so thafs coo!." Luke 9:23 provided the theme for Impact 2002, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." During the five-day introduction to Harding life, a record number of911 newstudents werechaUenged to deny themselves and follow Christ. Incoming students participated in a full schedule of activities, including Silly Olympics, a luau with inflatable games and an SO's theme dinner. A variety of entertainment acts ap– peared during the program, including acoustic comedians Bean and Bailey and hypnotist Bruce McDonald. Various service projects enabled students to serve the community. Par– ticipants collected canned goods for the Arkansas State Food Bank and visited widows, Single-parentfamilies and residents of area nursing homes. Returning students led energy groups and helped acquaint new stu– dentswith the campus and Searcyarea. "Our energy groups helped us get to know more people and gave us a base of friends to talk to about being new and stuff," freshman Leigh Ann Haynessaid. "They also helped us out getting to know places." Guest speakers presented devotion– alsduring the general assemblies and in the evenings, providing an avenue for spiritual growth. Impact closed with a candle1ightdevotionalledbyKevinKlein, associate professor ofHistory, and sing– ing on the Benson steps. " It was a really good way to get the year started and let students know what Harding is all about. which is finding and nurturing your own rela– tionship with the Lord away from home," senior Taylor Davis, Impact co-director, said. "The week was in– tended to provide an opportunity to begin thatspiritual journey and follow Him." - Christy Canady
Jackson Bailey entertains students during a performance at Student Impact Aug. 16. Bean and Bailey were a comedy duo skilled in humorous musical composi– tions, such as their original song "Wal-Mart Greeter." (Photo by Russ Phillips) Junior transfer student Jeremy Layden plays hackey sack at the Student Impact luau in President David Burks' backyard Aug. 16.Transfer energy groups were designed to help students deal with the transition from another university. (Photo by April Clem) ~·closerookhypnotist Junior Larry Holliman, Student Im– pact co-director, laughs hysterically and makes faces at the "teacher" while on stage at the hypnotist's show. "The highlight of the hypnotist was when we all thought we were members of N'Sync,n Holliman said . "I actually thought that I was Justin Timberlake. It was such a great opportunity to show oft our moves. I'll never forget that night. I got to be Justin Timberlake for a night. Not many guys can say that." (Photo by April Clem) Impact II • •
a closer I k church With a smile of thanks, senior Heather Golightly grabs a donut before the Sunday morning college class at the Downtown Church of Christ. Many local churches provided coffee or breakfast items before classes began. "I was at the Sunday night service at Wyldewood that Covenant Fellowship holds once a month," senior Leslie Hollingsworth said. "We always have a potluck before worship. This particular time there were only around 20 people there. However, there was enough breaded fish to feed the 5,000. Jesus would've been proud." (Photo by Renee Lewis) Seniors Mlsti Jonesand Hope Huckeba pray together in their living room. Room– mates and suitemates scheduled time to share requests and pray together regu– larly. (Photo by April Clem) • • 12 student life
Fin--- to Abundance of local churches, both small and large, provides students with many opportunities to worship A group of students pack Shores Hall lobby for a Wednesday night devotional. Students met each week to sing, pray and encourage one another. (Photo by Renee Lewis) Lifting his hands in praise, junior Tim Davis leads a prayer at the AU-School Retreat Aug. 23. The retreat began the semester with a spiritual focus. (Photo by Russ Phillips) a Church HOlDe Despite the close proximity of many Searcy churches, senior Matt Wilson didn't mind the 20-minute drive to Pineview Church of Christ near Pangburn, Ark. Wilson attended the rural church after visiting with his roommate. Wilson said his first experience at Pineview proved to be a positive one. "A couple at the church invited us to lunch at their house the second time we visited and we've been over there a few times since then," Wilson said. "When people ask how I am doing, it's not just small talk. They genu– inely care about what's going on in my life. They notice when I miss a Sunday and they even sent me a birthday card. It gives me more of a sense of belonging instead of being just a number." Besides close fellowship w ith church members, the chance for in– volvement was another incentive for attending a smaller congregation. When senior Dannie Rio, Bible and missions major, was introduced to the Des Arc Church of Christ, the churchdidn't have a regular preacher. Rio's interest in the congregation led toa preachingopportllnity in Des Arc, 25 miles east of Searcy. Prior to working with the church, which regularly had less than 20 people in attendance on Sunday morning, Rio said he had never at– tended such a small congregation. "Each individual member has more of a chance to serve and no one is left out since it's so close and per– sonal," Rio said. Those who preferred larger con– gregations felt the same sense of be– longing. At least three area churches averaged 1,000 attendees on a typi– cal Sunday morning. Although he sometimes felt lost in the crowd at such a large congregation, senior Doug Wood decided to make the College Church of Christ his church home because of the qual– ity of leadership. "College [Church] has a sound eldership as well as great teachers," Wood said."I thinkitwas mainly the teachers that influenced my decision to attend there." Junior Amber Smith attended the Downtown Church of Christ beca use of its similarity to her church at home. "Being around so many people is encouraging," Smith said. "There are ways for just about anyone and every– one to get involved .And the singing is absolutely amazing, with so many peoplewho have come together inone room to worship." No matter what size congregation an individual sought, Searcy and the surrounding areas offered a number of unique congregations to call home. -Christy Cmlady spiritual life 13 1111111 .
• the , ....morlesin Students in Florence spend the semester receiving an education and exploring the countryside of Europe Junior Jennifer Riley holds a baby belonging to Sylvia,one of the staff mem– bers at HUF. Students at HUF in the summer of 2002 not only grew closer to each other, they also formed friendships with the teachers and staff. (Photo cour– tesy of HUF Program) Juniors Brian Walton, Neika Noble, Jana Baber, Alyson Kilgore and Brian Johns show off their Carnavale gear. Carnavale was a parade held in February 2002 in celebration of Florence's culture. (Photo courtesy of Dr. Jeff Hopper) • • 14 student life can Each semester, s tudents at– tending Harding University in Florence spent the semester in th e heart of the Tuscan hill s in a v illa called II Palazzaccio. Forty stu– dents played and fought like brothers and s isters in o ne g iant family for three months. "My favorite part of HUF is getting to know people on a more personal l evel:' junior Matt Fecteau said. "While Jiving w ith 39 others, one is g iven the oppor– tunity to form meaningful friend– ships. " Along w ith the new friend ships that HUF offered, students were also given the chance to see Italy and many other European countries through free travel. Several timesdur– ing the semester the students spent four to six days out of class, traveling and exploring the sights of Europe. "One of my most interesting days was when I went skiing for the very first time down a moun– tain in Switzerland where the Swiss Olympic team practices," sopho– more Grant Jackson said. HUF students, o r " h uffers," roamed around Europe, visiting Paris, Barcelona, Munich, Prague, London, Amsterdam, wherever wandering hearts desired. A few even ventured into less familiar areas such as Ljubljana, Slovenia. "I picked Slovenia beca use my best friend's parents are mission– aries there," junior Sharon Hall said. "It's a beautiful country and not many people go there for free travel." The students saw a lot of Ita ly and learned about Italian art and architecture through guided tours. Famous works they saw included s Michelangelo's David, the Sistine Chape l and the Colosseum in Rome. Every semester at HUF was dif– ferent because of the people. Each group had 40 different faces inter– acting with each oth er and grow– ing together. " I think what made the fall 2002 semester of HUF unique was our senses of humor," junior Danielle Rousseau said . "We a ll had an odd love for the marble that is known as carrara, the symbol of the rich and powerful Medici family and the non-conventional musical com– positions of several of the stu– dents." The HUF group made their own memories and shared laughter they remembered long after they left Italian soil. -Sarah West
Juniors Laurie Kirkland and Elizabeth Reding enjoy scoops of gelato while soaking up the culture in Rorence in thefall of 2002. Gelato, Italianicecream, wasa stapleof themembers' diets, with flavors ranging from nutella to cantaloupe. (Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Reding) Junior Alyson Kilgore reflects on a day of traveling in the spring of 2002. Kilgore said her time spent at HUFwas amazing and that she would love to go back someday. (Photo courtesy of Dr. Jeff Hopper) closer florence Using the power of illusion, senior Cheri se Sanford pretends to topple over the Leaning Tower of Pisa onto junior Carolyn Crim . "We took a lot of funn y pictures all around the Leaning Tower of P isa ,~ Sanford sai.d. "We thought it would be funny to make it look like one of us was pushing the tower on top of the other one." (Ph oto co urtesy of Cherise Sanford) hut 15 II .
a closer 100 greece While in Istanbul, Turkey, junior Rob Conn, senior Leah Eddy, and juniors Jared Culbertson and Kyleen Rogers examine the outside of the Blue Mosque before venturing into the interior. The trip to Turkey, atradition among HUG groups, included visits to the Seven Churches of Asia Minor. "One time in Turkey, we stopped to eat and when we got off the bus there was a giant real turkey running around. It was a Turkish turkey," junior Sarah Johnson said. "I was going to eat turkey inTurkey!n(PhotacQurtesyof LeahEddy) Sophomore Russell Keck, juniors David Wilkins and Bob Turner, and se– nior Josh Harriman pose in front of the ancient ruins of the library at Ephesus. Fall HUG students were able to witness firsthand the artifacts and remnants of civilizations thousands of years old. (Photo by Curtis Seright) • • 16 student life
Gree HUG program Immerses students in Greek culture, allowing them to explore ancient civiIizations and experience a different way of life Greek culture was a dichotomy: modernism met ancient Athens just down the road from the HardingUni– versity in Greece Fall 2002 students. Athens did not have theonly popu– lation of evolving peoples. The stu– dents ina suburb of Athens also expe– rienced challenges and growth. As soon as students arrived at their new home in Porto Rafti, Dr. Terry Edwards, director of HUG, knew this group was different. Feeling like the Brady Bunch, the group adopted six new parents, 26 sisters and 12 broth– ers. "It's like having 25 sisters aUliving together for a semester," sophomore Kathryn Cherry said. "We call Dr. Edwards 'Daddy E' because he is just like a father to us." Setting the tone for the semester, the first chapel services were about creating goals and expectations. "To grow spiritually as an indi– vidual was top priority for me," senior Jessica Rutledge said ."\ really feel that this group as a whole shares this ex– pectation." Students sang at many of the an– cient theaters scattered throughout Turkey and Greece. Checking out the acoustics in the theaters proved to be a highlight for many students. "T didn't realize how much emo– tion could come out in our singing in Ephesus," junior Melissa Ziegler said. "And the fact that bystanders, who didn't speak English, asked for an en– core made it that much more mean– ingful." Students heard thesaying, "Greeks are either the best drivers in the world or the worst, there is no in-between." They soon realized this statement's truth after being zipped around Ath– ens. Construction, traffic, guards and mobs of people defined the future home of the 2004 Olympic Games. "Right now it is a hassle being caught up in the frantic preparation Surrounded by dozens of pigeons, jun– ior Lindsey Harriman , senior Josh Harriman and sophomore Kathryn Cherry sit still so they don't disturb the birds. Pigeons were a common sight for stu– dents at HUG and could be found at almost every major monument in Europe. (Photo by Curtis Seright) Waiting anxiously on her camel, junior Alicia Roberson prepares to experience a new mode of transportation. While abroad, summer HUG students learned to step out of their comfort zones. (Photo courtesy of Becky Kelly) for the Games, but when it comes time to light the Olympic torch in the stadium, it will all be worth it," jun– ior Lindsey Harriman said. Students packed their suitcases for exotic civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt and Mycanae. The tour guides colored the ruins with their unique perspectives, rang– ing from wholehearted belief in my– thology to practicing holistic heal– ing. Besides the archaeological aspect of the excu rsions, souvenir shopping was importan t. Edwards said this group was "the shopping-est group" he had ever seen. Students sometimes got a little carried away in their purchases. "It seemed like everyonewas buy– ingTurkish prayerrugsand I thought to myself 'Hey, could this catch on at Harding?'" seniorJonathan Storment said. - Katie Comett and Mitch Wiggains hug 17 1111111 .
ki e~ Twenty-eight students pioneer the new foreign studies program, located in Vina del Mar, Chile Juniors Feydra Gorsline and Erin Bailey. missionary Tom Hook and seniorJonathan Reynolds concentrateon spottingseamon– keys at Salt Flats in the Atacama Desert in Chile. The sea monkeys were the favored cuisine of the flamingos that roamed the area. (Photo by Melissa Wilson) Sophomores Jo Ellis, Jaet Beamon, Arnie Stratton and Holly Russell, juniors Craig Bettenhausen and Mary Reynolds, sopho– more Natalie Williams and juniors Daniel Penick and Melissa Wilson take a lunch break on top of a mountain at the World Class Ski Resort in Portillo, Chile. Students took trips that involved athletic activity. (Photo courtesy of Melissa Wilson) _ . 18 student life When the 28 students studying at Harding University in Latin America stepped off ll,e plane, none of them knew what to expect for the semester. They were the first to attend Harding's newest foreign studies program, located in Chile. Dr. Jeff Hopper, dean of interna– tional studies, said that Latin America was chosen because Presi– dent David Burks wanted a Spa.nish– speaking program. After research, Chile was chosen because of its stable economy. Since thiswas the first year for the program, students didn't have the luxury of sto– ries from previous HULA students like the other programs did. They were the first, the experiment, the group to set the standard. Some students were more pre– pared than others, and some even spoke Spanish. "It's frustrating not being able to communicate," sophomore Daniel Penick said. "Once I ordered little green Jewish women for di nner in– stead of green beans." The first impressions of Roca Blanca, where the group stayed, amazed many of the students with its apartments overlooking the Pa– cific Ocean. "The accommodations are amaz– ing," sophomore Emily Safley said. "I have never lived in such a nice atmosphere. We can see the sunset over the ocean every night from our living room." The faculty planned numerous trips so the HULA students could see and experience the sights and culture of Chile. "This program seems to be more athletically centered," senior Dannie Rio said. "We've already been skiing in the Andes, hiking in the desert and soon we'll be white water rafting." The first trip, which was a week of skiing at Portillo, a world-class ski resort, set the tone for the rest of the semester by uniting the group. The second trip was to the Atacama Desert, where HULA stu· dents saw geysers, salt flats, sand dunes and more. On their free day, students who weren't horseback riding or sand· boarding browsed in artisan mar– kets. Life was not just exciting trips al HULA. The group also managed to fit in classes. "I thought our academics would be a blow off, but 1was surprised to find otherwise," sophomore10 Ellis said. "If you like to slack off, I'd avoid a foreign studies program." Overall, students and professors agreed the first semester ofthe HULA program ran smoothly. -Amie Stratton
Junior MeganBiIIs,sophomoreMatt Pruitt,juniorsMelissaWilson and Cody Norton and sophomores Holly Russell and Natalie Williams stand in front of a waterfall at the Vicente Perez Rosales national park in Chile. The students in the Chile program were given the opportunity to visit the scenery of the country. (Photo courtesy of Dr. Jeff Hopper) Junior Shara Martin pets a koala bear at a park in Australia. The program in Australia was held in the spring of 2002. (Photo courtesy of Ben Wilkins) acloser oo australia Sophomore Rees Jones, junior Matt Price and sophomore Patrick Cone get a taste of Olympic glory while impersonat– ing Charlie's Angels at the Olympic Sta– dium in Sydney, Australia. "I have always said that HUA is Harding's best-kept secret," Cone said. "HUA isn't really talked about as much as the big two, HUF and HUG. You get everything that both of these groups get. You're constantly traveling. You get to do a lot of outdoors stuff that the other two don't get to.n hua &hula 19 1111 .
closer tee torpedo Aiming at the crowd of screaming fans, junior Shane Brockwell prepares to launch a t-shirt via the "Tee Torpedo" during the Homecoming football game Oct. 26. '" was at the Homecoming football game and , all of the sudden, I heard a sound 1had never heard before. I looked over and I saw I-shirts flying out of a strange contraption ," junior Jonathan Porter said. "One flew my way and I caught it, but one of my friends grabbed it out of my hands. I've been bitter about it ever since," (Photo by Renee Lewis) Senior Jimmie Douglass assumes the role of Prince Dauntless in "Once Upon A Mattress," the Homecoming musical. The musical, an adaptation of "The Princess and the Pea," was one of the highlights of Homecoming weekend . (Photo by Lindsey Taliaferro) • • 20 student life
Homecoming reunites old friends, recruits new students and celebrates the school's progress Alumni returned to their alma mater Oct. 25-27 for a busy and event– ful Homecoming weekend. Many events were scheduled throughout the weekend for stu– dents, alumni, parents, fri ends and prosp ective students. The weekend offered activities such as the musical, "Once Upon a Mattress," the Bison Booster golf tournament at the Searcy Country Club, a Good News Singers perfor– mance, a pep rally and a bonfire. Making a return was Ha rvey Wallbanger Jr., a bison from the Buf– falo Express Western Show, and his trainer T.C. Thorstenson. Saturday, there was a social club fair in the Ganus Athletic Center. Belles and Beaux, a musical group, performed along with the children's theater group, Pied Pipers in the Administration Auditorium. Alongwith giving groups on cam– pus a chance to perform, Homecom– ing served as a recruitment weekend for prospective students. "It proved to be a successful week– end," Mike Williams, assistant vice president for admissions and stu– dent financial services, said. "We had over 200 students register for Bison Daze and they were able to get a taste of classes and weekend events, like the musical and the football game." Although the numbers were up again at the admissions office, the a lumni office reported a decrease in registered participants for Home– coming 2002. The Bison football team felt the spirit of Homecoming with their vic– tory over the University of Arkan– sas, Monticello, which improved their season record to 7-1. "Tthink the point of HomecomNewly elected Homecoming queen, Lindsey Eason, senior, accepts a con– gratulatory bouquet from President David Burks' granddaughter, Callie. Eason was crowned during half-time of the Oct. 26 football game against the University of Arkansas,Monticello. (PhotobyReneeLewis) Trainer T.e. TIlorstenson and his bison, Harvey WallbangerJr., mingle with the fans during the Homecoming football game Oct. 26. The pair also made an appearance at the pep rally Friday, where they awed the crowd with tricks, such as jumping through a ring of fire. (Photo by Renee Lewis) ing is to boost the morale of the team and get the student body involved in the game," senior Lindsey Eason, 2002 Homecoming queen, said. "I think it's a really encouraging time for the team. The stude nt body seemed really excited abou t another victory and they had so many people coming back to support them." One alumnus, Alice Ann Kellar, came back to campus for her 50-year class reunion. "We were all so happy to be to– gether again. During my time we all depended on each other so much. It was fun to talk about our best memo– ries and just to reconnect," Kellar said. "Overall it was an enjoyable weekend . We enjoyed seeing the progress and development of the school, but most of all, we enjoyed being together. " -Kerri DutiJe homecoming 21 • •
Another chapel service is added in order to accommodate the needs of a growing student body Sophomore Colby Blaisdell challenges his opponent for the disc during an Ulti– mate frisbee game. Ultimate frisbee was a popular front lawn activity and im– promptu matches sprang up often. (Photo by April Clem) Sophomores Bryan Bradshaw and Stephanie Ramsey chat with senior Greg Goodale over dinner at Mi Ranchito. The restaurant was a favorite of students who enjoyed tasty, yet inexpensive, Mexican cuisine. (Photo by April Clem) _ . 22 student life For the first time in decades, stu– dents could choose to attend one of two chapel services. As a resultofincreased enroUment. the entire student body and faculty could not fit in the Benson Audito– rium. The chapel committee decided to create a simultaneous service in the Administration Auditorium. Daniel Cherry, administrative as– sistant to the President, said IMt spring more than 50 students were asked to be core members of the new chapel service. "We knew thatwe would have to make it something that was going to be a priority and the quality would have to be as good as the Benson/' Cherry said. "We didn 't want the people in the Administration Audi– torium to feel like they were second rate, so we assembled that group to give us some ideas." Shtdents were able to sign up for the Administration Auditorium chapel service before the school year ended. This fall, 790 studentspartici– pated in the new chapel service. "I like it a lot," sophomore Jenni– fer Holt said. "It seems more per– sonal since it's smaller and I don't feel like it's really separate from the Ben– son. I still feel like it's the whole stu– dent bodycoming together for chapel." Many students who attended the smallerchapel felt they hadn't missed anything. The new chapel had the same announcemen ts and simila r speakers, just on different days or later in the chapel service. Some students felt differently. "I like the Benson," sophomore Dave Pritchett said. "There are more people in there and you get the sense of being with people. But I like the Administration [Auditorium] chapel because I think it's more intimate a nd I like the acoustics better." The chapel split also affected the I ,200 incoming freshmen. In the past, choosing seats on the lower level of the Benson was a privilege reserved for upperclassmen. This year, how– ever, freshmen were allowed to sit anywhere in the Benson, a big change for the returning students. "I like the idea of different classi– fications being mixed together dur– ing chapel," senior Candi Stewart sa id. "But I also feel that the fresh– men should have more focus in the Administration [Auditorium] chapel and move up to sitting on the Benson floor, like we did." Although the re we re many dif– ferent opinions about the chapel splil, most agreed that praising God was the most important thing. In the spring, the chapels were combined and the student body met together again in the Benson. -Heidi Waldell
Taking advantage oftheweather, freshman Sarah Fritts studies under the shade of a tree on the front lawn. Many students found studying outside to be a favorable alternative to studying in the library or dorm lounges. (Photo by lindsey Taliaferro) Dr. Dean Priest, vice president for academic affairs, reads the announcements to the Benson auditorium chapel. Because of increased enrollment, the university offered two simultaneous chapel services in the Benson and Administration Audito– riums fall semester. (Photo by Chrissy Ingram) acloser Ookfront lawn Junior Justin Watts stops to talk with junior Mandy Warren on his way to class. "One day, my friend Shelby Kempf and' were walking to chapel,~ senior Marilee Sutherlin said. uThe heel of her boot snagged on one of the old chain fences as she crossed over, and she kissed the pavement. I would have tried to help her up, but I was too busy laugh– ing. She looked around to see if anyone else was watching, then we hurried to chapel.~ (Photo by lindsey Taliaferro) daily life 23 I .
a closer look karaoke Belting out one of her favorite tunes, junior Toni Edwards takes part in the Karaoke Night sponsored by the Student Activities Committee Sept. 20. Karaoke Night gave each participant the opportu– nity to showcase his or her vocal ability and stage presence. "My friend Sarah Surge"t and I have sung karaoke together a couple of times. Every time we do the same song, Britney Spears' 'Hit Me Baby One More Time,'" senior Taylor Davis said. "We try to really pump ourselves up, because we realize that we will look sillier if we are not into it and acting crazy, and college students love to see each other looking stupid." (Photo by Renee Lewis) Sinbad jokes with the audience in the Benson Auditorium during his Nov. 15 periormance.The Student Activities Com– mittee hosted the event which drew in more than 2,500 guests. (Photo by Lindsey Taliaferro) • • 24 student life
a Family Weekend draws a large number of families and friends, treats guests to a wide range of activities Family, fun, football and food marked Family Weekend, Oct. 4-6. Family and friends were invited to attend classes, chapel and events such as a golf tournament, an illu– sion show, the football game and the Jennings Osborne barbecue. "It was fun to go to the barbecue and get all the food and listen to the entertainment," senior Sara Rabon said. "Even though my family wasn't here, I was able to join up with my friends and their famjJies and we all had a good time." The Jennings Osborne barbecue held strong as a highlight of the weekend for visiting families and students on campus. It became part of Family Weekend four years ago. "When the American Studies In– stitute asked us ifthe barbecue could be part of FamilyWeekend, we were very excited about it," Liz Howell, director of alumni and parent rela– tions, said. "The event has become a real positive part of the weekend. This year we had over 3,000 people attend the barbecue. Each year the process is becoming smoother and more people are able to enjoy it." family Weekend grew in atten– dance from previous years. In past years, about 100 families attended. In 2001, attendance jumped to 200 fami– lies. The number continued. to grow this year, with 230 families registered. Howell hoped the reason for these numbers was due to efforts to target parents of upperclassmen as well as those of freslunen. "We are trying to market towards the parents of all the students, not just the freshmen," Howell said. "Wehope that parents will start coming when their student is in their first year and keep returning each year after that." The organizers of Family Week– end tried to plan activities for every– one. Entertainment included various groups, such as the Belles and Beaux Senior Jeremy Anderson drums at the Jennings Osborne barbecue during Fam– ily Weekend Oct.4-6. Family Weekend brought in entertainment for more than 200 families. (Photo by Amy Beene) Walter Williams, professor of econom– ics at George Mason University, lectures as part of the American Studies institute lecture series Sept. 12. ASI also brought in Dinesh D'Souza Nov. 14, Khalil Jahshan March 6 and William Bennett April 3. (Photo by Lindsey Taliaferro) and Generation Gap. Pre-football game entertainment included inflat– able games, face painting and ap– pearances by cheerleaders and Bobby the Bison. "Sometimes when my family is in town, it can be hard to find things to do in Searcy," senior Emily Hoggard said. "But with Family Weekend it makes it a lot easier. There are activi– ties planned all day. We really en– joyed the barbecue and the football game, especially since the team is doing so well this year." The football team won their fifth consecutive victory on Family Weekend . " It was really great to have our fifth victory on such a big weekend," senior Nate Dutile, fullback for the Bisons, said. "We get so much energy knowing that everyone's families are in the stands wa tching. It makes it fun to go out there and play." - Kerri Dutile entertainment &events 25
Campaigners travel to every corner of the earth to show people the love of Christ While on a scavenger hunt in Toowoomba , Australia, junior Kevin Buchnam looks on as Australian Matt Dusza pretends to be a King. Due to decreased participation in summer inter– national campaigns, only one group trav– eled to Australia last summer. (Photo by Jim Miller) Junior Lindsey Harriman designs a poster to portray David and Goliath for Vacation Bible School. Harriman was a part of the Fall River, Mass. spring break campaign that door-knocked, conducted a youth rally and performed skits at Bristol Community College. (Photo by Renee Lewis) • • 26 student life Daniel Cherry, director of spring break campaigns, said the goal of campaigns was to encourage local congregations, reach out to local communities and develop Christian servants. Most campaigners remembered the lives they touched and the people they had the opportunity to help. "You think you 're going to go on a campaign and change tons of lives," junior Lauren Cantrell said. "People always think of New York City, or the nursing homes or the shelters. "But ifyou ask a campaigner wha t impact they had, they'll always tell you a story of one person they touched; for us it was an elderly couple living in a shack in Griffin, Ga. Twenty of us were crowded in their three room apa rtment and as we sang 'Amazing Grace' the elderly lady started to bawl." Cherry said the best part about campaigns was the week after every– one returned, praising God for the work He did through them. One such casewas withJonSingle– ton, who led two consecutive spring break campaigns to Liverpool, N.Y. "I've learned somuch on my cam– paigns," Jon Singleton, English ad– junct, said. "The campaigners defi– nitely get mo re out of it than the people." Singleton told a story about a Liverpool teenager, Dan, who was known for being rebellious, bisexual, a drug addict and car thief. Through the course or the cam– paign, team members and youth group members fromLiverpool spent time with Dan and his friends, initiat– ing calm, caring conversations and discussions about Jesus. Although their time with Dan was short, Liverpoolcampaignerswereex– cited about the seed that had been planted in Dan's life. "I hope that someday Dan will remember the things that we talked about with him," junior Melanie Grady, campaign member, said. "l hope that he will pull out that piece of his memory and act upon it." Cherry was excited about the en– thusiasm college students brought to struggling churches and communi– ties. "The college generation brought vitality, excitement and idealism which is healthy. Churches need a vision like that," Cherry said. "College is typically the 'me' stage of life. Spring break is an opportunity to show that there are good college kids who care to serve." -Erin Knthleell Henly
Senior Nathan Mcintyre mingles with school children in Peterhead, Scotland. Mcintyre was on a campaign that went to several schools, teaching children about God. (Photo by Chrissy Ingram) Junior Natalie Faught shows David Owens, preacher at the Wetzel Road Church of Christ, and a teenager from Liverpool, N.Y., the "huh" game. Every day the spring break campaign team in Liverpool held activities for the children and teenagers in the community after school let out. (Photo courtesy of Melanie Grady) acloser o vbs Sophomores Jacob Metcalf andTy Gentry, junior Kelley Cook and sopho– more Gretchen Winter act out a scene depicting Daniel in the lions' den during their campaign to Fall River, Mass. "[One night] the featured Bible charac– ter was brought to modern day times through a time machine and sent back after the story was told," sophomore Gretchen Winter said. "On the night the Joseph story was told, little Elyssa started crying because she didn't think that Mark [who played Joseph] was going to come back from the time machine after the skit was over. She demanded that Melissa [who operated the time machine] bring him back in time.~ (Photo by Renee Lewis) campaigns 27
a closer look baseball Imitating an angry baseball player, sophomore Jennifer Keene yells with heartfelt emotion in Shantih and friends' show, "Away With the Dishes, Let's Step Up to the Plate!" "There were a bunch of girls in our show who were dressed up as guys," senior Allison Alexander said. "After the show, a lady asked me which show I was in. 1 told herr was one of the girls who was a boy [baseball player] in the Shantih show. She was so surprised. She had no idea that any of the guys were actually girls, even when we were walking around after the show," (Photo by Daniel Dubois) • • 28 student life
Spring Sing takes on a patriotic theme, remembers America's favorites and pays tribute to Sept. 11 Although Spring Sing has taken place each y'ear since 1974, the 2002 show struck a different chord with the events of Sept. 11 still weighing on the hearts of Americans. Dr. Steve Frye, director of Spring Sing, chose the theme "Route 66, Journeys Across America," right be– fore Spring Sing 200l. "When we origi nall y chose 'Route 66' we wanted to show America's love for the automobile," Frye sa id. "But the theme morphed into more of an Americana and pa– triotism theme. "The show as a whole took on a more serious note, which is un– usuaL However, this seemed to be just what the audience needed be– cause their response was phenom– enaL" Many ofthe students agreed that Route 66 was a terrific show. "When they started the finale and everyone from all the different shows stood up there and held hands and sang their hearts out, it gave all 5,000 people sitting in the audience hope that the future might just be okay," seni or Morgan Kimbrough said. Although the whole show was not a tribute to Sept. 11, various socia l club acts recogni zed the events of that day and its after– math. Delta Gamma Rho, Delta Chi Delta, Kappa Gamma Epsilon, Gamma Sigma Phi and fri ends per– formed their show, "Courage Un– d er Fire." as a portraya l o f the fire– men of America. "The directors of our show wanted our performance to be meaningful to the audience," jun– ior Shannon Gifford said. "They worked hard to give fire fighters recognition for their work during and after Sept. 11." Other performances also deSenior Julie Dennis and junior Megan Bills, ensemble members, and senior Cindy Collins, Spring Sing hostess, per– form "These Boots Are Made ForWalkin'." The ensemble entertained audiences with several songs in between the clubs' shows. (Photo by Daniel Dubois) Freshman Clint Wallis choreographs his way to the front of the stage in TNT, Zeta Rho and friends' show, "We're Not that 'Snort' of Nerds." The showwas the second runner-up in the John H. Ryan Sweep– stakes Award. (Photo by Daniel Dubois) picted ideas uniquely American, like baseball, McDonald's and the role of American women during World War II. Even though the tone of the show drifted from the original idea, the v intage automobiles that were brought on stage were still a big hit. Cars from different eras repre– sented America's love of the auto– mobile. "These automobiles traveled on Route 66, the original 'Main Street' of America," Frye sa id. "The road was d esigned to meet the demands of a changing country. It represents the diversity and unity of a free people who stand for what's right." In this transition time for the United States, a look back on her history and a hope for her future seemed to be the key to success for Spring Sing 2002. -Kerri Dutile spring slOg 29 mml .
Non-traditional students deal with the unique challenges of raising a family while going to school full-time Harding School of Biblical Studies stu– dent Esteban Gonzalez studies for a major exam . HSBS, an accelerated program ~I'l Bible and ministry for students 21 and older, was located on the third floor of the Mclnteer building. (Photo by Michelle Scobba) Juniors Santiago and Raquel Collins swing with their daughters. It was not uncommon for parents to bring their chil– dren to campus to show them around - and show them off. (Photo by April Clem) • • 30 student life Charles and Kathy Hickmon were the quintessential non-tradi– tional students. The couple met while serving in the Air Force and have been mar– ried for 16 years. They are the par– ents of three children: John, 15, Caitlin, 13, and Emily, 12. Living in Bradford, the Hickmons made a 20-mile com– mute every day. Charles Hickmon, a secondary education physical science major, enrolled in the fall of 2000. He decided to cash in on his G.L bill and go back to school. He con– sidered attending Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, but a meet– ing with Dr. Jim Carr, executive vice-president, changed his mind. "I met with Dr. Carr to talk about Boy Scouts and I mentioned I was going back to school," Charles Hickmon said. "By the end of the afternoon I was enrolled at Hard– ing." Charles Hickmon came to Hard– ing because he was treated well by the faculty members. Also, the campus was close to Bald Knob, where his children at– tended school. Kathy Hickmon, who worked for a travel agency, decided to go to Harding as a pre-nursing major af– ter response to the attacks of Sept. 11 hit the industry hard. "Harding has a good nursing program," Kathy Hickmon said. "It's close to home and people here are extremely helpful." The couple appreciated the friendly atmosphere of the school. Right off the bat, they noticed the family atmosphere. "You don't find many schools where the professors really have an open door policy," Charles Hickmon said. "Professors are really great about taking time out to talk to you." As full-time students, they had more time to devote to their family. "Going to school shows the kids that if we can handle college, they will be able to also," Charles Hickmon said. Their children didn't seem to mind the change, either. "It's interesting because it gives us a chance to do homework to– gether," Kathy Hickmon said. "The kids think it's cool." Both were able to go to school full time without working because of their military service. Charles Hickmon said that, as an older student, he often was confused for a faculty member. "I am asked what department r work in all the time," he said. "I've even been called doctor." -Cody Usher
Freshman Leo Bratcher sings during the Harding School of Biblical Studies chapel held daily at 9:45 a.m. in Shores Chapel. The HSBS program met the needs of many non-traditional students pursuing Biblical training. (Photo by Rachel Miller) Charles and Kathy Hickmon take advantage of a moment of free time to study together in the student center. The Hickmons, both full-time students, balanced their time between courses and family. (Photo by Chrissy Ingram) acloser ookparenthood Freshman Jessica Oliver comforts herson , Brady, as she waits for chapel to begin in the Benson. "It's pretty embarassing when my baby starts talking when I'm in class," senior Tiffany Brown said. "It's not like I can just get up and leave the classroom. Some– times she even throws stuffed animals at the teacher." (Photo by Michelle Scobba) non-traditional students 31 111M .
a closer oak internationaI Senior Dennis Van Erp relaxes after a day at work. From Holland, Van Erp was a shift leader for Aramark in the student center. gr used to tell people that I dated the Princess of Holiand,n Van Erp said. "I also told them that yellow was an offensive color, so they wouldn't eat bananas or wear yellow shirts in front of me. I also used to tell people that everyone in HoI– land lived in windmills and wore wooden shoes. And they believed it. ~ (Photo by Russ Phillips) Junior Jacob Rotich talks with a friend between classes. Despite the increased difficulty in obtaining student visas, most international students were glad to be able to study abroad. (Photo by April Clem) • • 32 student life
Events of September 11 complicate the process of applying for student visas Afterthe attacks of Sept. 11, there were a number of effects on the student body. One was an increased d ifficul ty for in terna tiona l stud en ts coming to the United States and enrolling in school. During the fa ll of 2001 , 225 in– terna tiona l students a ttend ed Har~ d ing. This fa ll, on ly 211 en rolled. "We found that even the kids that d id come this year had a lot more difficulty in getting their vi– sas, "Nic k y Boyd , di rec tor of Walton Scholars said. "I thin k it has been a lot ha rder for those that want to come. And I think there is a perception interna– tionally that it's harder to come to the U.s. and study." Many international studen ts had al read y exper ienced d ifficulti es coming to th e Un ited States. Senior I1 ir Skendaj had to stay home in Albania for an entire se– meste r in 2000 before he was al– lowed to return to the United States. li lt is common to run into trouble getting a visa in Eastern European countries," Skendaj said . "The process of app lying is com– p lete ly subjective, even if you have a ll the required informa tion, th ey can still reject you ." Nand ish Dayal, a sophomore from Fiji, said the U.S. Embassy in Fiji had always been stringent on giv ing ou t visas. The day he went to apply for his visa, Dayal was th e only one of 46 who received a traveling permit. " Thaven' t had any trouble get– ting home and back," Dayal said . "Although even before Sept. 11, getDuring his shift as lab operator in the Ezell building, Endri Baduni, a senior from Albania, works with Jason Balota, a junior from Singapore. Some international students held jobs on campus to help offset the cost of studying abroad. (Photo by April Clem) Senior Anibal Tamacas,a computer sci- . ence major from South America, plays his guitar at the Jennings Osborne barbecue Oct. 5. Easing the transition to a foreign country, international students involved themselves in familiar activities. (Photo by Amy Beene) ti ng my visa was not easy." The Walton Scholarship Pro– gram brough t 13 new students to the campus to make 60 total Walton Scholars from Mexico and Central America. Accordi n g to Dani el Velasco, graduate stud ent working as an as– sistant to Boyd , in ternational stu– dents were a llowed to obtai n visas approved th rough the length of their scholarship, instead of hav– ing to renew visas every year. Even with the longer visas, get– ting the visa initially was a compli– cated process. "Students have to provide more I proof tha t they are coming to study here in thestates,"Velascosaid. liThe process of getting a visa has become much more involved." -Rynll Snul international students 33 ~Iml .
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTc5NA==