• • petIt Jeatl 1924 II established112004 Petit Jean, Volume 80 Harding University Searcy, Ark. 2003-2004 Enrollment: 5,354 Renee Lewis, ed itor-in-chief Amy Beene, head photographer Jeffrey Hunter, cover design & photography Jeff Montgomery, cover photography Jim Miller, adviser
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student life 1/ 10 people 1/ 40 leadership 1/ 128 academics 1/ 150 organizations 1/ 182 social dubs 1/ 216 athletics 1/ 236 index: 1/ 264 .' 1924 II established112004
• • Harding celebrated its 80th year of existence this year. Arkansas Christian College and Harper College joined forces " in 1924 to begin Harding ColJege on the campus ofArkansas Christian College in Morrilton, Ark. Admjnistrators hoped uaditions from the first student body would be passed down to future student bodies. "It has been your privilege to establish precedents for future student bodies," J.N. Armstrong, Harding's first presi– dent, wrote in the 1924 edition of the PetitJean. "Traditions of the doings of the first student body will be handed down from year to year and from generation ro gen– eration, even so long as the institution shall live. " The 2004 version of Harding reflected the mission of the 1924 founders - to uphold a Christ-centered university. Freshman Amy Evans said while at Harding, Christ became the center of her attention. "I notice that I think about my relationship with Christ more onen," Evans said. IS 1924
Freshmen Eric Young and Tasha Turney sing praises to God at the AU-School Retreat Aug. 29 at the White County Fair– grounds. The service allowed students to worship, share with each other and listen to Rich Little, preacher at the Naperville church of Christ in Naperville, III. (Photo by Melissa Wilson) continued 2004
Senior Tim Davis and sophomore Phil Burrows, Theatron mem– bers, perform "Leader" during Student Impact Aug. 23. "Leader" was a skit designed to convince people to leave earthly pleasures behind and pick up Jesus' cross. (Photo by Russell Keck) established 1924
• Among the new building projects and academic pro– grams, President David Burks said what set Harding apart from other universities was the emphasis on Christ. "The really significant part about Harding is the fact that wecontinue to be Christ-centered," Burks said. Through mission opportunities, chapel and service-ori– ented activities, students received an education based on Christ. "Harding has blessed me with many opportunities to serve both in the community and other places," sopho– more Laura Rifenbark said. "Also, the daily reminder to seek God has been so helpful." Burks said the spiritual aspects found on campus were not only traditions, but staples of the university. "One of the things that has always been a part of Harding, in my opinion, is an emphasis on missions, and an emphasis on service," Burks said. "Those are important concepts to Harding." Rifenbark said rhe teachers contributed to that emphasis. "The teachers are always teaching from a Christian perspective and encouraging students to do everything for God," she said. • conlnue 2004
Dr. Kevin Klein II 8 /1 dedication .- chosen for honor The faculty member who completed his first year as the new history and social science department chairman, also was voted by the senior class as the recipient of the Petit Jean dedication. Dedication Glance II bachelor's fromHarding in 1986 II docrorate from Florida Sta~e Univ~rsity in 1993 II wife, Lon; two sons, Sam and Seth Dr. Kevin Klein received his bach– elor's degree from Harding in 1986, and his doctorate in southern history from Florida State University in 1993. He came back to Harding to teach in the history department soon after. II 2003 first year as history and social science depan– mem chairman Senior Micaela Rolen said Klein's teaching stood out from others because of his excitement for the subject. "History's not one of my favorites," Rolen said. "It's difficult for me to keep myself interested ... It wasn't hard in his class because he was aiways so into it." Klein said the reason he liked to teach history was because he wasn't just teach– ing wars and names, he was teaching God's word. "It's more than just a truth about history; it's a truth about God," Klein said.
.. " Dr. Kevin Klein, chairman of the his– tory and social science department, works in his office Nov. 4. Klein, who was chosen by the senior class as the recipient of the 2004 Petit Jean dedi– cation, completed his 10th year as a member of the faculty this year. (Photo by Renee Lewis) dedication II 9
studentlife I n Mark 8:36, Jesus said, "What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?" Facultyand staffmembers aimed to focus smdents' lives around Christ. After all was said and done in life, established relationships with Christ were what really mattered. Smdent life activities ttied to reach inside smdents' lives and give them Christ-centered values. Through devotionals, Smdent Impact, international programs and reunions with £unily members, many smdents saw Christ. Through campaigns, smdents gave Christ to others. Junior Valerie Goodale said activities provided another oudet for Christian fellowship. "The activities at Harding allow for us, as Christians, to realize that we can have fun without worldly things having to be involved," Goodale said. "It is just one more way to fellowship with everyone." "Sara Gregersen "smdent life editor " •
Bracing themselves, April Conner, Harding University Bookstore cashier, and seniors Rebecca Bayham, Tricia Mullins and Christy McCullough carry their Jennings Osborne Barbecue trays to a sitting area Sept. 27. For the fifth year, the Jennings Osborne family brought its barbecue to campus during Family Weekend, helping to establish a fami ly atmosphere. (Photo by Melissa Wilson)
" I upped it one, I broke both of " my leg bones. - senior Matt Savage, Student Impact co-director 12 1/ student life ill1pact leaders overcome obstacles to orientate freshmen, transfers On his way to the F-team championship basketball game for TNT social club Feb. 18, 2003, senior Matt Savage, Student Impact co-director, had a strange thought enter his head. "On my way to the basketball game I said to myself, 'You know, I think I'm going to break my leg tonight,'" Savage said . He never expected that strange thought to become a reality. "I upped it one," he said. "Tbroke both my leg bones." Savage played defense. He remembered going up to stop a player from completing a layup. The events following were blurred in Savage's mind, but he did remember wha t happened after gravity grabbed him . "We were down by 20 and I was trying to stop a guy from doing a layup," he said. "We went up and Theard a pop when we came down." About an hour later, Savage arrived at a hospital by ambulance only to fi nd out he needed surgery to repair his dislocated ankle and broken tibia and fibula. At that point the coping mechanism was laughter for Savage. "I was in shock because I couldn't feel any pain," he said. "They [friends] thought I was delirious because I was laughing. My ankle is turned 90 degrees, what else are you going to do?" He also learned at the hospital he would not be able to attend a student orientation conference in San Antonio, Texas, that weekend with senior Rachel Hollis, co-director, and Butch Gardner, director of First Year Experience. Gardner chose Hollis and Savage in December 2002 to fill the roles of Impact co-directors. "The only time I almost cried was when they [doctors] told me I couldn't go on the tri p," Savage said. Savage remained in the hospital fo r a week and was bed-ridden for two weeks. ''It slowed us up," Savage said. "It made things a little more stressful at the beginning of the summer and at the end of the school year than they could have been." Hollis commended the Student Impact staff for cooperating through the whole process. "We were fortunate to have a great staff," Hollis said. "When you' re surrounded by good people, it makes your job easier." Savage said although the road was difficult, Tmpact 2003 was well worth the journey. "I think Impact was amazing," he said. "I think it went reall y smoothly. I was very happy with it." Impact 2003, w ith the theme "Face to Face," was held Aug. 21-25, and 896 registered freshmen and new students participated. - Renee Lewis and Jamie Higgins While under hypnosis, freshman Paul Kurtz plays the part of an angry lifeguard at the annual hypnotist show during Student Impact Aug. 23. Hyp notist Chuck Milligan made another appearance at Student Impact this year. (Photo by Amy Beene)
Junior Bryan Bradshaw and senior Brad Bellamy help a freshman girl unload her car Aug. 21. Energy group leaders helped freshmen move into their dorms on the first day of Student Impact. (Photo by Amy Beene) close up.---- More than 1,000 new students and fresh· men attended the candlelight devotional Aug. 25 on the Benson steps. ~I thought the devotional was very beautiful, n fresh· man Melanie Stanley said. ult was so neat to have all the freshmen there holding candles, singing and praying to God." (Photo by Russell Keck) A Student Impact energy group plays a "get-to-know-you" game in the lily pool. Upperclassmen led energy groups and served as sources of Harding knowledge to new students during Student Impact. (Photo by Russell Keck) student impact /I 13
"I havenever had a close friend on the Homecoming court before, and when a member ofmy club was represented I was so proud. " - junior Hannah Johnson 14 /I student life the court Harding changes tradition for Homecoming voting homecoming usually highlighted football, fellowship and a queen, but this year new ideas caused some reorganization to the long-time tradition. Kellee Blickenstaff, Homecoming coordinator and cheerJeading coach, thought Homecoming royalty would best suit the student body if changes were made. In the past, students voted in chapel for class representatives. Not only was this a lot of paper work, but Blickenstaff said the students did not take it seriously. "T never thought that voting in chapel was a good idea," senior Lindsay Schmidt said. "Everyone around me would always say how stupid it was." Blickenstaff put on her thinking cap, visited with club and faculty members, and decided each social club would choose a representative for the Homecoming court. In addition, the Multi~Cultural Student Action Committee, Circle K and International Student Society also elected representatives. "When I first approached Dean [Peggy1Huckeba, she tbought it was a great idea as long as we set some guidelines: minimum CPA, no probations, in good standing with the university," B1.ickenstaff said . "Liz Howell, head of alumni activities,. was excited about having more student participation at the game." Blickenstaff said members of social clubs were given the chance to show off club spirit while on court. "Students are proud of the social club they are in, therefore they take more pride in who they vote to be on the court," Blickenstaff said. Blickenstaff hoped the changes would spur more people out to First Security Stadium for the Homecoming game Oct. 18, while integrating more students personally. "I have never had a close friend on the Homecoming court before, and when a member of my club was represented I was so proud," junior Hannah Johnson said . The football players still had the responsibility of nominating three queen candidates to represent them on the ballot. The student body then voted for senior Tressa Tucker as queen. Sophomore Audra Ennis and senior Raquel Collins were the two other nominees. - Staff reports Professor Harold Hill, played by senior Tony Garcia, sings "76 Trombones" to townspeople Whitney Oegge, Justin Parkey, Jeremy Painter, Sean Tappe and Mary Catherine Clark in "The Music Man." The cast performed the Harding musical for area elementary schools at noon Oct. 15. (Photo by Melissa Wilson)
Smiling after being crowned Homecoming queen, senior Tressa Tucker accepts a football, autographed by the football team, from Presi– dent David Burks and his grandchildren Oct. 18. Along with the three queen nominees, social clubs and organizations elected representatives for the court. (Photo by Amy Beene) close UPBuff the Bison entertains the crowd at the Homecoming football gameOct. 18. The athletic office presented the student body with a new mascot in chapel Oct. 16 in time for Homecoming weekend. Students voted for the name Buff over two other choices, Basil and Bo. In addition to a new mascot, Dustin Vyers, student activities coordinator, designed a new logo for the university. (Photo by Russell Keck) Fans cheer on the Bisons as they play in the Homecoming football game against Henderson State University Oct. 18 at First Security Stadium. The Bisons defeated the Reddies 34-33. (Photo by Russell Keck) homecoming 1115
" This is the 30th year that we have worked together in Spring Sing. And it's great to see the two clubs continue to " grow together. - senior Chad Mims 16 II student life Seniors Chad Mims, Melissa Myers and Sam Garner celebrate after winning the first place trophy for Chi Sigma Alpha, Regina and friends' show, "For Richer or Poorer." The show included 130 people, with more than 100 large-part cast members. (Photo by Melissa Wilson) • • spnng Sing multimedia show highlights 30th anniversary production a 11 the stars came out for the 30th annual Spring Sing April 1819. The show's theme was "Reel Music A Tribute to Movie Music." The show, hosted by seniors Jennifer Campbell and Jimmie Dou– glass, graduate student Trey Talley and junior Holly McDaniel and a 20-member ensemble cast, paid tribute to the music that melodically moved the silver screen over the centuries. This year's show was the first in Spring Sing history to incorporate a multimedia theme in which the university paid royalties. "We have wanted to do this theme for the past five years," Dr. Steve Frye, director of Spring Sing, said. "We wanted to take a multimedia approach and use film clips that we licensed." The highlighted film clips ranged from the comical quirkiness of "0 Brother, Where Art Thou" to the more dramatic dirges of "Ghost." "A wide variety of movie clips and music were used, and I think that made the show enjoyable for everyone," sophomore Ryan Travis said. The production also featured seven club acts that were judged in the areas of music, costume, choreography and originality. Chi Sigma Alpha, Regina and friends took first place in the Jack Ryan Sweepstakes Award for their show, "For Richer or Poorer," which depicted the lives of families in the late 1940s as they traveled to California in search of a better life. The show placed first in the music, costume and choreography categories, and it received the participa- - tion and spirit awards. Chi Sigma Alpha and Regina, brother and sister clubs, had been partners in Spring Sing since the show's first production in 1973. "This is the 30th year that [we] have worked together in Spring Sing," senior Chad Mims, president of Chi Sigma Alpha, said. "It's great to see the two clubs continue to grow together." Although the win was exciting for both clubs, Mims said the key to their success was placing their focus on build ing relationships and having a good time. "We had an awesome time hanging out with our sister club and meeting the new people who signed up to participate in our show," Mims said. Melissa Myers, Regina Spring Sing director, agreed with Mims. "Everyone wants to win," Myers said. "We were out to have fun." - Dustin Vyers, Alisha Frazier contributed.
ophomore Trisha Allie, junior Cristen Murphey and eanne Lackey form a line in "Take it From the Top,S, 7, 8." Chi Omega Pi and Delta Gamma Rho teamed p to perform the show. (Photo by Melissa Wilson) Senior Jennifer Campbell perfonnsa Disney medley between acts. Campbell"with graduate student Trey Talley, senior Jimmie Douglass and junior Holly McDaniel, graced the stage in April as the hosts and hostesses. "It's a great opportunity to use [the talents] God has blessed you with," Campbell said. (Photo by Melissa Wilson) Seniors Kim Goff and Sam Peters go head to head during Shantih's Spring Sing performance. Shantih's show, "Help! We Need a Hero," featured a super hero who saved civilians by singing to them. (Photo by Melissa Wilson) Graduate student Trey Talley, junior Holly McDaniel, and seniors Jen– nifer Campbell and Jimmie Douglass periorm "United We Stand" during the Megamix April 19. The Mega– mix ended each night's Spring Sing performance and featured selected periormers from each club act. (Melissa Wilson) spring sing1117
" Campaigns went really well even though it was a , building year. ' - Daniel Chern;, director ofspring break campaigns 18 /I student life • campaigns spring break groups focus on Texarkana Spring break campaigns in 2003 paired the faithfulness of one Arkansas town with the enthusiasm of more than 130 Harding students to accomplish great things for the Lord, junior Jimmy Huff, campaign leader, said. Harding students split up among nine groups that went to Texarkana. The groups worked with a round 20 Texarkana-area churches, Dr. Eddie Cioer, professor of Bible and organizer of the campaign, said. The groups held a week-long gospel meeting for the churches to help reach those who were once thought to be unreachable. "We claim they Inon-Christians] can't be reached." Huff said. "But a lot of times that's because we haven't tried - it takes boldness to try." As a result of the Texarkana outreach, more than 150 people were brought to Christ through baptism, Cloer said. "It helped jump-start an entire town," Daniel Cherry, administrative assistant to the president and director of sprin g break campaigns, said. Since the Texarkana campaign focused on evangelism, the students needed to be trained before the week. - "Each group went through a pretty intensive training session on studying the Bible with someone," Huff said. Cloer said the main objective was to help the chu rches in the area become stronger in their fa ith. 'He said the concept of the week was a soul-winning workshop. Before the campaigners came to town, Cloer wanted the churches to prepare themselves to be able to continue this work after the campaigners went home. "We wanted to just come in and help," Cloer said. "We just d idn't wan t to do it for them." Along with the Ha rding students, around 12 Freed Hardeman students, four Texas A&M students with Aggies for Christ and 25 members of the congregations did the majority of the work. In total, around 175 people participated in the event. Overall the school sent out 34 campaigns, with 375 campaigners, across the globe. Cherry said those numbers were lowered from yea rs past in order to evaluate the program. "Campaigns went really well even though it was a building year," he said. - Renee Lewis and Justin BroilsOlI Senior Miriam Scott tears out a wall with a sledgehammer while on a 2003 spring break campaign in Fort Worth, Texas. Campaigners worked with the Fortress church of Christ to convert a retirement home into a church building. (Photo courtesy of Miriam Scott)
n a summer campaign to New Zealand, sopho– Ore Trisha Allie tries to eat a chocolate bar while earing mittens during a group game. The campaign embers attended a family camp where they minis– red to Christians from three different cities in New aland. (Photo courtesy of New Zealand campaign) dose ue Junior Meghan Michaelson, senior Melanie Grady and sophomore Katie Paul joke with each other on a van ride from the Little Rock airport after the Fall River, Mass., 2003 spring break campaign. "During van rides we were really able to connect," Grady said. "We would sing and sometimes talk about what had happened during the day. Sometimes we would just goof off and have fun." (Photo by Renee Lewis) Senior Larry Holliman gives a young boy a piggy-back ride while on the Fall River, Mass., spring break campaign. The group, led by Hol– liman, hosted a four-day vacation Bible school for more than 30 children. (Photo by Renee Lewis) On a 2003 spring break campaign to Tex– arkana, Ark., junior Matt Tignor and sopho– more Jon Aven work in the food pantry at the Dorcas House, a ministry of the Nash church of Christ. Students helped organize and prepare food that would be given to members of the community. (Photo courtesy of Michelle Holeman) campaigns1119
" .. . It's amazing to be where people like Elizabeth I and Walter Raleigh " were. - sophomore 51-zelby Beamon 20 Ii student life england Group enjoys language differences, cultural experiences in London a voiding the language problem that most students w ho studied overseas dealt with on a dail y basis, the students who studied in London, England, fall semester said speaking the same language as the locals made thei r stay tha t much better. Even those visiting from the other international Ha rd ing cam· puses said the language benefit made a difference. "I can read a ll the signs because they're in English," sopho– more Jeremy ElLiott, Harding University in Florence student, said. Sophomore Lindsey Hunt said there were some slight d iffer– ences tha t made communication tricky at times. "Their wo rd for cookie is ' biscuit: but a 'biscuit' is also a bis– cuit and a cracker," Hunt said. "Plus, their 'crisps' are our chips, their 'chips' are our fries." Once they got the language d ifferences under control, the group traveled to many different spots, includ ing a IO-day trip to the British Isles. There the g roup visited historical and literary monuments. One of the g roup's fa vorites was the William Wal– lace monument, sophomore Christina Ryan said. " It almost killed me climbing up the stairs," Ryan said. "It almost killed me because the wind nearly blew me off at the top. But the view was awesome, and it gave me a greater appreciation for William Wa llace." Members of the g roup said living in London was interesting because of the literary significance the city held. Just walking to the grocery store, the group walked past the home of autho r T.5. Eliot. The local pa rk was a scene in Virginia Wolfe's novel, "Mrs. Dalloway." "You can't walk anywhere in the towe r where someone important hasn't been held captive or killed," sophomore Shelby Beamon said . " It's kind of morbid ... but it's amazing to be where people like Elizabeth I and Walter Raleigh were." One of the cu ltural catches for the g roup was wa tching the Royal Shakespeare Company perform William Shakespeare plays. The entire production was authen tic Shakespearian-the– ater, includi ng the all-male cast, groundlings in the Globe Theatre and the costumes. "There is a play to see each night, from musicals to stra ight plays about sca ry women dressed in black," sophomore Lau rie Padgett sa id. - Erill Healy and Renee Lewis Teresa McLeod, disability spe– cialist, slides upside down on the flying fox at O'Reilly's Rainfor– est in Australia. McLeod and her husband, Randy, professor of business, were faculty sponsors at HUA during the fall semester. (Photo courtesy of DeAnn Thomas)
Wallabies eat from the hands of sophomore Nathan Burroughs at the Australian Woolshed in Brisbane, Australia. During the fall semester, HUA students had the chance to get up close and personal with creatures of the outback. (Photo courtesy of DeAnn Thomas) .. dose UPA group of HUE students walk along Hadrian's Wall in England. Hadrian's Wall, which stretches 80 Roman miles, was built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian in 122 A.D. during a visit to Britain. (Photo courtesy of Shelby Beamon) Teresa Mcleod, HUA sponsor this fall, fal~ through the sky Oct. 9with her tandem master at SUtton's Beach in Brisbane. Each student who made the jump had the option to purt::haseavideo, which featured the airplane ride, the fall and the landing. The videos cost 88Australian dollars, around 55 American dollars. (Photo courtesy of DeAnn Thomas) Dr. Tom Howard, professor Emeritus and HUE sponsor this fall, teaches a class on the steps of the British Museum in London. While in England, students went on a 1O-day cruise to the British Isles. (Photo courtesy of Dr. Jeff Hopper) hue& hua ll 21
" I was able to walk around as the sun rose and reflected off the " famous canals. - junior Jessi Metcalf 22 /I student life florence Strangers become friends while studYing overseas in Italy I ike a scene from a reality TV show, 33 strangers gathered in the Atlanta airport in September not knowing what the future held for them. The students lived together in a 16th century villa in the heart of Tuscany, just outside Florence, Italy. Even students coming from large families had to adjust to life in the villa. With essentially 32 siblings, people learned to tolerate each other's quirks, whether that was playing the guitar all the time or snoring. Eleven girls shared one toilet upstairs; there was always a wait for the computers; and chairs were crowded tight in the dining room. This was the first year that director Robbie Shackelford took the group to the southern coast and Sicily instead of Greece. The southern coast of Italy, once known as Magna Grecia (greater Greece), contained plentiful Greek temples and artifacts. Another ancient treasure was Pompei, the 2,OOO-year-old city destroyed by a nearby volcano. For an entire day students walked around Pompei, examining the ancient buildings and the molds of the victims' bodies, which still lie on the ground. "We got to see so many neat historical sites and artifacts, but really my favorite part of the week was the 'water day' we spent at Gole Alcantara," junior Rebekah Mohundro said. The Gole was a freezing gorge cut into slick, black volcanic rock. "I loved holding onto each other and trying not to fall as we waded up the stream and climbed the waterfalls," Mohundro said. "It was so cold we could hardly breathe." During the four weeks of free travel, students broke into smaller groups and headed all over Europe, deciphering train schedules and road signs in every language. Greece, Derunark, Sweden, Spain, Germany, the Czech Republic and the United Kingdom were just a few of the countries students saw. "My best memory from free travel is my first morning in Venice," junior Jessi Metcalf said. "We got there in the middle of the night and slept on the streets, but the next morning I was able to walk around as the sun rose and retlected off the famous canals." After visiting so many of the big cities, small towns and famous sights Italy offered, students gained a thorough understanding and appreciation of the Italian people, land and language. - Carrie Springer Juniors Allie Osborne and Kyle Chan– dler sit in a plaza in Barcelona, Spain, while participating in the HUF program during the summer of 2003. HUF students traveled on their own across Europe during the course of the summer semester. (Photo by Melissa Wilson)
Fall 2003 HUF students pose in "the forgotten city," Pompeii, Italy. Pompeii was rediscovered in 1748 after volcanic ashes from Mt. Vesuvius covered the city in 79 A.D. (Photo courtesy of Dr. Jeff Hopper) close Uf!- Students listen toa tourguide at a museum in Agrigemo, SK:iIy.Wrth Renaissanceand Baroque saturating themodemAgrigento cul– ture, fall 2003HUFstudentswere able to visit museumsard experience theartistic traditions oftheAgrigentoand Italiancultures. (Photo courtesy of Dr.Jeff Hopper) Sophomores Jesse Carr and Jessica Ray, and junior Bethany James, fall 2003 HUF students, pose for a picture on top of the Duomo Cathedral in Florence. Construction began on the Duomo at the end of the 13th Century and took more than six centuries to complete. (Photo courtesy of Dr. Jeff Hopper) Sophomores Mindi Kimberly and Jeremy Elliott, senior Sally Hurd and sophomore Malina Thiede, fall 2003 HUF students, listen to Robbie Shack– elford, director of HUF, give a tour at the north doors of the baptistery in Florence. HUF officials provided students headsets to hear better during tours. (Photo courtesy of Dr. Jeff Hopper) huf ll23
"Once you got past the bus and the rock piles, the trips " were great. - junior TreoorGoertzen 24 11 student life greece students form relationships while traveling overseas at HUG boarding a plane to a far off coun try, 38 students anticipated the.ir 2003 fall semester abroad in Greece, known to Harding students as HUG. Reasons for packing their bags and leaving their families for three months differed from growing spiritually, to seeing new things, to having fun. But one goal remained constant among the HUG students: not to come back disappointed. " It was a blast," sophomore Katie Paul said . "Everyone shou ld do it." The semester was packed with trips, classes and free travel. Students walked in the apostle Paul's footsteps in Corinth and Ephesus, rode camels to the pyramids in Egypt, jumped off cliffs in Santorini and took a cru ise around the Greek Is les. Students reflected at places such as Mars Hill and Patmos Is land, and sang at the ruins of the earliest Christian churches. Many of the ancient temples and palaces the students visited were more than 3,000 yea rs old. "Once you get past the bus and the rock piles, the trips were great," junior Trevor Goertzen said. HUG students adjusted to the Greek cultu re through food experiments, sights and sounds. Among the fa vorite things of the students were the gy ros, stray dogs and Greek pride. However, the Greek language was the most difficult obstacle. " Italian is the language of praise; French is the language of love; and Greek is the language of confusion." Dino Roussos, Greek instructor, said. By the end of the semester, most students knew enough to at least say, "J want a gyro" and "That is not my dog," phrases that proved to be useful in day-to-day acti vities in Greece. Many students also walked away with strong, family-like bonds. "I came expecting to get close, but this is way beyond close," sophomore Brian Vesely said. Some HUG students said God used the semester to change Bves. Worship with Christian brothers and sisters from every continent at the Omonia church was inspira tiona l for some students. "God has blessed my life so much tlu-ough this trip," sophomore Betsy Stratton said. "He has used every experience, every ancient ruin and every person here to teach me something about Him, and in turn, something about myself." - uw ra Kniser Raymond Caldwell, of Athens, Greece, and junior Jacob Metcalf play together at the piano in the Artemis. Caldwell made trips back and forth between Athens and Porto Rafti in order to spend time with HUG stu– dents. (Photo by April Fatula)
Sophomores Brian Vesely and Lisa Bryan, freshman Stephen Roussos, and sophomores Ryan Warlick and Ashley Clark play Monopoly at the Artemis in Porto Rafti, Greece. HUG students left the Artemis through– out the course of the semester to visit places such as Egypt and Turkey. (Photo by April Fatula) Sophomore Julie McLain stands on the shoreline in Porto Rafti. The beach, located five minutes from the Artemis, was visited by HUG students almost daily. (Photo by April Fatula) HUG students enjoyed the pool at the Artemis in their spare time. The Artemis, a former resort hotel, housed the HUG students each semester. Students were grouped into apart– ments, dined together family style and enjoyed a provided laundry service. (Photo courtesy of Dr. Jeff Hopper) Outside the walls of ancient Thessaloniki, Greece, junior Mark Johnston takes a break from a tour to sit on a bench with two Greek men. HUG students met people from across the world during their semester overseas. (Photo by Jeffrey Hunter)
" When you're a wife and you have a baby on the way, there are so many things that must, be accomplished " in a 24-hour day. - senior Jessica Swindle 26 /I student life day by day creativity breaks monotony Senior Jessica Swindle tried to resist the temptation to hit the snooze button every day at 6:45 a.m. Swindle, and her husband, Jeremy. Harding School of Biblical Studies student, both had 8 a.m. classes. The commute from the west side of Searcy was not always simple due to Searcy High School traffic. Jessica Swindle, who was pregnant, attended classes until after noon. After classes, she went home to pay bills and do chores. "When you're a wife and you have a baby on the way, there are so many things that must be accomplished in a 24-hour day," Jessica Swindle said . Single when she began her college career, Jessica Swindle said her daily life was busier because of her marriage. "Yes, it's busier because it's not just me I'm taking care of," she said. "It's not just my stuff that has to be taken care of." The Swindles weren't the only couple who struggled with juggling a marriage and everyday college responsibilities. Seniors Enrique and Amanda Colon said they found it difficult to spend time together during the semester, because both attended classes and worked full time. Enrique Colon, who worked wo jobs and fulfilled an internship requirement in the fall, said his schedule was hectic, especially on Tuesdays and Thursdays. "I get up at 7 a.m., go to Athlete's Choice for my internship from 8 a.m. until noon and attend a graphic design class until 4 p.m.," he said. "Then on Thursdays, 1 go to work. I get off at 10 p.m. and then I go home and do homework." Amanda Colon, a full-time student, worked 40-hour weeks at Bath and Body Works. "We don't see very much of each other," Amanda Colon said. "We kind of have to make time to see each other." Amanda Colon appreciated her and her husband's busy schedules each day because of the lessons she learned. "It's tough, but you learn to appreciate the moments that you do have together/' she said. "In a way it has helped our marriage, not hurt it. We've grown closer and [learned] to maximize every little moment." - Sara Van Winkle Sophomore Stefanie Sanderson writes in her journal on the front lawn. The front lawn was a favorite spot for students to enjoy the outdoors between classes. (Photo by Amy Beene)
Vhile she waits for her laundry to dry, a eshman works on homework. To wash and ry one load of laundry on campus, it cost tudents $1.25. (Photo by Melissa Wilson) dose UPFreshman Ciara Lewis eats in the new and improved cafeteria, completed just a few days .' before the first day of classes. The $2 million reno– vation featured an open-kitchen concept and new food items. Extended operating hours allowed stu– dents to take advantage of the new cafeteria until 9 p.m. on weeknights. (Photo by Renee Lewis) Junior Myles Turney and sophomores Jeff Fowler and Jon Aven play "Halo," a multi-player X-Box game that allowed players to compete against one another while on different game systems. Students across campus joined the trend to pass time and hang out together in the dorms. (Photo by Russell Keck) Freshman Tara Curtis talks with freshman Collin Bills outside Pattie Cobb Hall in September. With the garden– like scenery on campus, students took advantage of the warm weather in the fall. (Photo by Amy Beene) daily life 11 27
" I feel more alive when ram outside. r feel more pure. Society is corrupt, and you can go back to your natural state out there. " - junior Kris Kyle 28 1/ student life natural state Arkansas provides plethora of recreational activities a hh, the "natural state." On days most people headed to class, drove in rush-hour traffic or were subject to the busyness of the business world, others enjoyed the great outdoors. Rather than climbing a concrete jungle or driving over man– made hills, junior Kris Kyle took a short drive to a rock and some trees, or as he called it, "paradise." Kyle, who was an established rock-cUmber, made the pilgrimage to his mecca at Riverside Park about twice a week Kyle said he loved being alone withGod outside. "I feel more alive when I am outside," Kyle said. "I feel more pure. Society is corrupt, and you can go back to your natural state out there. Tt is a spiritual experience being outside. I see God in nature and the rocks and trees, streams and mountains. His majesty is everywhere." In the midst of nature and God's creation, Kyle scaled rocks and found fulfillment in the accomplishment of scaling a Aat– faced rock that was 500 feet high. Kyle said rock-climbing was an adventure he wanted to pursue since he was a little boy. "It's amazing," Kyle said. "It is the power and strength of pulling yourself up the rock. It is like a puzzle and a dance that you have to figure out at the same time." Not only was the encounter of nature a get-away from society and a release from stress, it also removed mOWlting tension from the daily grind of the world, Kyle said. "I think getting out in nat4re is a release from stress because you take all the social things in life and cast them aside and go out and get away," Kyle said . "I feel closer to God. 1 see His beauty more often then." Kyle was not alone in his escape from the 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. routine. Junior Mark Jolmston also found recreation and escape in rock-climbing. Since last fall, Johnston had been joining Kyle on climbs. "Tt's just awesome," Johnston said. "Tt's a rush, and the element of danger just makes my blood pump." - Gary Luna During a volleyball game at Berryhill Park, junior Jennifer Skinner serves the ball over the net. Located a few minutes from campus, Berryhill was visited by students who wanted to enjoy the outdoors. (Photo by Russell Keck)
Junior Victor Chamo plays soccer on the front lawn in September. Students utilized the front lawn for an assortment of activities, including soccer, football, softball, Frisbee and lacrosse. (Photo by Russell Keck) close UP-- An Ultimate Frisbee player reaches for the disc during a pick-up game Oct. 17. On most afternoons, rain or shine, Fris– bee players could be found trampling the grass of the front lawn. "Ultimate Frisbee is highly competitive, but it's all in good fun," senior Justin Bland said. (Photo by Renee Lewis) Junior Jael Beamon makes her next move at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch in northwest Arkansas during a climbing trip. "[Rock-climbing is) just awe– some," junior Mark Johnston said. "It's a rush, and the element of danger just makes my blood pump." (Photo courtesy of Jael Beamon) Senior Bret Walker, juniors Kris Kyle and Charles Elliott, and senior Mark Simmons take a break after playing in the Student Association Ultimate Frisbee Tournament Oct. 4. Their team, "Sasquatch," came in fifth place out of 11 teams. (Photo by Melissa Wilson) recreation II 29
"I think they are one of the most popular acts that we've had since I've been here. " - senior Sarah Epps 30 II student life entertain Excitement surrounds both Nickel Creek performances S weet sounds of the mandolin blended with a funky violin moved students out of their seats to jam to Nickel Creek's rhythm and blues banter in the Benson Auditorium and Midnight Oil, a local coffeehouse, Nov. 7. After performing for a crowd of more than 2,000 people in the Benson that evening, the group made its way over to Midnight Oil for an acoustic enchore for hundreds of students who scrunched into the small coffeehouse. "Midnight Oil was packed - standing room only," Dustin Vyers, student activities coordinator, said. "We walked them in through the back and they made their way to the center of the shop." The group's Friday night entertainment didn't end at Midnight OiL The group also was found throwing a football around at the Radio Shack parking lot on Race Street after the coffeehouse enchore, which lasted more than an hour. Mandolin player Chris Thile, guitarist Sean Watkins and fiddle player Sara Watkins formed the band more than 12 years ago. "Nickel Creek's music reaches a wide range of people," Vyers said. "T think a lot of people are into guitar and playing their own instruments, and they respect artists like Nickel Creek who play their own instruments." Senior Mark Smith agreed with Vyers. "I am a musician myself, and I have a lot of respect for people who can play an instrument and sound good," Smith said. The anticipation for Nickel Creek's concert began at the Welcome Center in the Ganus Athletic Center Aug. 25. It was there the Student Activities Committee announced the forthcoming concert. "We had a table set up to buy the Pass/' Vyers said. "They [students] go to the calendar first to see who's going to be here. A lot of them were very excited." Senior Sarah Epps was one student who waited in anticipation for the concert. "I [was] excited that Harding [had] such a great band come," Epps said. "I think that they are one of the most popular acts that we've had since I've been here." The group released fou r albums, "Little Cowpoke," "Here to There" and its self-titled album in 2000, which went Gold in 2002. The group's most recen t album was "This Side." - Renee Lewis Transforming his vocal cords into Scottish bagpipes, senior Jerrad Powell performs with the Firemen at a concert in the Administration Audi– torium Oct. 10. The concert was the group's final periormance at Harding, as the group split up this year. (Photo by Renee Lewis)
Harding movie-goers line up to buy tickets for Disney's "Finding Nemo" Sept. 12. More .than 1,500 people attended the showing, causing the ticket line to extend from the Benson Auditorium to the student center. (Photo by Renee Lewis) " dose UP-.- Sophomore J .R. Raymond receives a heap– ing tray of food at the Jennings Osborne Family Barbecue during Family Weekend Sept. 27. Members of the Harding community and Family Weekend visitors participated in the free feast before the football game against Arkansas Tech. (Photo by Russell Keck) Mandolin player Chris Thile and guitartist Sean Watkins, Nickel Creek members, perform Nov. 7 in the Benson Auditorium. Nickel Creek, which performed for around 2,300 people in the Benson, also put on a small acoustic show at Midnight Oil, a local coffeehouse, after the concert. (Photo by Russell Keck) Singer Zane Williams performs to 250 students in the Benson Audito– rium Sept. 13. Williams entertained students with his comical country repertoire as a Student Activities Committee-sponsored event. (Photo by Russell Keck) entertainment II 31
" We make trips to Wal-Mart when we're bored, often to buy things we don't need." - freshman Rebecca Rozear 32 II student life " searcy life Wal-Mart offers more than just merchandise, some say W hen both money and creative ideas were running low, many Harding students fou nd themselves in one of the few places in Sea rcy that didn't dose at night, the Wal-Mart Supercenter. With everything from food toclothing to electronics, Wal-Mart had what a college student needed to get through the semester, induding entertainment. "We make trips to Wal-Mart when we're bored, often to buy thi ngs we don't need," freshman Rebecca Rozear said. "We have lots of fun in the kid section," SaJes and seasonal stock are other incentives that appeal to students in search of things to do. "Wal-Mart at Halloween is the best time to go," freslunan J.8. Hewatt said. "After Halloween the candy is 75 percent off and costumes are everywhere." In fact, some Wal-Mart events were so enticing that a few students, like sophomore Dennis McCarty, were willing to risk a curfew violation. "My friend Kyle dragged me to Wal-Mart and we stayed until 1 a.m. to get the 'Finding Nemo' movie," McCarty said. "He really wanted to get it the day it came out. The Wal-Mart personnel were very helpful and tolerant." Curfew violations were not the only kind of trouble some students risked . Rowdy behavior sometimes caused problems with Wal-Mart security, as sophomore David Renner and junior Taylor Plott discovered. One Saturday night during the fall of 2002 Renner and Plott went to Wal-Mart with a group of friends. Renner went into the tool section while Plott and friends made their way to the fish tanks. With a hollow candy cane decoration in hand, one of Plot~ s friends began blowing bubbles in the fish tank. "AUthe fish went crazy," Plott said. 'They were banging against the walls of the tank. Then an undercover security guard came out and yeUed at us." Unaware of the commotion at the fish tanks, Renner appeared to show his friends a tool he found. "I innocently came out wielding an ax, and the guard yelled at me too," Renner said. "And I didn't do anything." After reprimanding the group, the guard told them if they caused any more trouble, they would have to leave. Since that time, both Renner and Plott said they have been on their best behavior while at Wal-Mart. Despite some of the rambunctious activities Harding students engaged in while in her store, Wal-Mart Personnel Manger Rita Willbanks said that students were always welcomed at Wal-Mart, even if just to hang out. "You never know, they might decide to buy something," she said. - Meghan MicJmeIs01I While working on homework ar sipping coffee, senior Jay Ellis ar sophomore Mandy Brown study Midnight Oil Coffeehouse Nov. 18. Tt coffeehouse hosted local bands sue as Satchel Boogie and was a popul hang out for students. (Photo t Melissa Wilso
Waitress Legina Sims serves senior Bret Lewis a plate of eggs and toast at Bobby's Diner. "I love Bobby's," Lewis said. "It's good food, it's real cheap and you get to hang out with the locals." (Photo by Melissa Wilson) In perfect fonn, senior Justin JamerSon sends a bowling ball down the lane. Jamerson was a member of "The Billionaire Boys Club," a team of Titans social club members who bowled in the afternoons at The Super Bowl, Searcy's bowling alley. "Bowling is fun and it's something that you can do no matter what kind of shape you're in," Jamerson said. (Photo by Melissa Wilson) Graduate student Alison Seright looks at the Christmas lights at Berryhill Park in Searcy Dec. 10. In December, many students took advantage of the holiday decor by using it as an entertain– ment option. (Photo by Curtis Seright) Junior Chris Worden pushes sophomore Dannon Basaldua around in a shopping cart Dec. 2 while on a late-night run to Wal-Mart. "At Wal-Mart there's aUkinds of things to do, like see who can find the craziest stuff to buy," freshman Joel Cox said . (Photo by Melissa Wilson) searcy life /I 33
" It's amazing how quiet Searcy can be in the summer time. It's like a different place from mid-Mayta early August " - senior Tressa Tucker 34 /I student life summer campus buzzes with activity while students are on break • magine it is the end of the spring semester, classes are I finished and a long-awaited rest is on the brink. The only obstacle is, instead of going home for the swnmer, staying at Harding is the reality. Although for many this reality may seem like torture, there were some who not only lived through the experience, but fmUld it to be a pleasant one. Each year at the beginning of summer, Harding helped to CQlIDed students w ith programs that enabled them to work and serve in the community. One such program was Uplift, a three-week summer camp held on campus for teens. While at Uplift, teens spent their days with youth group counselors and participated inactivities such as Bible classes, devotionals, talent shows and energy groups. "[ thought it was going to be so boring staying here, but the thing about being here was that you got to meet and make friends with a lot of people that you nonnally wouldn't have met," senior Molly Davis said. "It turned out tobe really nice, working with the kids and seeing how on fire they were was very encouraging to me." Throughout Uplift, counselors spent most of their time getting to know the teens and making sure they felt comfortable. In addition to the regular activities, teens participated in skits built around the Uplift theme, "The Cal!." The skits were based on Jonah's life. n As a counselor, I felt like I was being paid to go to camp because [ got to see all the speakers, hang out with the kids, watch the skits and participate in all the activities they did," sophomore Cynthia Landon said. Students also found Searcy to be more relaxed and less crowded in the summer. "It's amazing how quiet Searcy can be in the summer time," senior Tressa Tucker said. "It's like a different place from mid-May to early August." When it came down to it, right-brained friends were needed to make it through a summer in Searcy, sophomore Derek Lang said. "There's a lot of stuff to do both on and off campus, but you have to make an effort to find it and be creative," Lang said. ~ CaireyTai Three Uplrtt campers sing in atalent show during theJune sesskJn of Uplift, aweek-long camp for teens sponsoredby the Institute for Ch..ch and Family. Each of Uplift~ th"'" sessions included a talent show, and the finalists of the showpertonned before the klcture on the final n\jht of camp. (PhotobyJeff Montgomery)
close Special Olympics participants march in the opening parade at the Ted Lloyd Track. Special Olympics, held on campus during the summer, included track and field events. (Photo by Jeff Mont– gomery) UB-- Firewor1c.s explode over the Harding campus July 4 to conclude a night of events for the Searcy community. The Jennings Osborne family sponsored the fireworks show, and Yarnell's provided an ice cream supper for guests. Christian vocal group Acappella performed for around 5,000 audience mem– bers. (Photo by Jeff Montgomery) Graduate student Ben Carrigan gives directions to "Kid's Kollege" students Kevin Lee and Austin Gurchiek on how to make ice cream in the "Secret Formulas Revealed" class. Carrigan, who graduated from the College of Education in May 2003, partici– pated in the event, which was sponsored by Lifelong Learning, a branch of the American Studies Institute. (Photo by Jeff Montgomery) summer life /I 35
" I believe the steps of success talked about by Mrs. Cheney were very powerful and " valuable. - Dr. Larry Long, associate vice president for Academic Affairs 36 /I student life .' • moving on record number rotate tassels; Lynne Cheney gives address lynne Cheney, wife of Vice President Dick Cheney, challenged around 7,000 family members and friends, and 512 graduates to be successful in all realms of life at the graduation ceremony May 10. Lynne Cheney, who spoke on campus as an American Studies Institute speaker in the spring of 1996, began her speech by telling the audience her role model was Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor not because of her status, but because she had perfected the art of giving short commencement speeches. In less than 15 minutes Lynne Cheney offered the following pieces of advice to the graduates: "Act like you know what you are doing," "Know what you're doing." "Have a place to stand, but be respectful of where other people stand," and "Know what success is." President David Burks said he was honored to have Lynne Cheney speak at graduation. "Mrs. Cheney's speech was very well done and surprisingly, rebroadcast on CSPAN several times," Burks said. Dr. Larry Long, associate vice president for academic affairs, said Lynne Cheney'S speech was timely and an applicable lesson for graduates. "I believe that the steps of success talked about by Mrs. Cheney were very powerful and valuable," Long said. Graduates walked away from Lynne Cheney's speech having learned something. "One of the !lUngs I learned from Mrs. Cheney's speech was even though you might be brief in your speaking, if you get the important ideas through to your audience your goal [can be] achieved and all involved [can] learn," senior Robert Moloney said . Lynn Cheney, an advocate for the improvement of education, was the chair of the James Madison Book Fund, an organization she created and helped launch in April of 2003. - Darin Sackett Ready to receive his master's in business administration, Stephen Peters waits for his name to be called during the commencement ceremony May 10. Peters was among more than 50 graduate stu~ dents to receive master's degrees. (Photo by Jeff Montgomery)
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