HUNTINGTON, Ind. — On August 14 and August 15, 2020, Huntington University will host graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2020.
On Friday, August 14, ceremonies will be held for master’s degree recipients at 5:30 p.m. and doctoral degree recipients at 8:00 p.m. On Saturday, August 15, ceremonies will be held at 9:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 2:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. for sections of the baccalaureate degree recipients.
All ceremonies will be held in Zurcher Auditorium in the Merillat Centre for the Arts, and each graduate is permitted three guests. All graduates and groups of guests will be socially distanced and are required to wear masks. Zurcher Auditorium will undergo sanitation between each ceremony.
As part of the graduation experience, Mike Packnett, president and chief executive officer of Parkview Health, Jim Carr, JD, president and chief executive officer of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, and Shirley Hoogstra, JD, president of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, have prepared special video messages for the ceremonies. Dr. Sherilyn Emberton, president of Huntington University, will offer brief remarks; Dr. Herb Schumm, chair of the Huntington University Board of Trustees, will offer the invocation and Rev. Arthur Wilson, dean of spiritual life and campus pastor, will offer the benediction and commissioning of the graduates.
All ceremonies will be live-streamed. Links can be found online at huntington.edu/Graduation.
Huntington University is a comprehensive Christian college of the liberal arts offering graduate and undergraduate programs in more than 70 academic concentrations. U.S. News & World Report ranks Huntington among the best colleges in the Midwest, and Forbes.com has listed the university as one of America’s Best Colleges. Founded in 1897 by the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, Huntington University is located on a contemporary lakeside campus in northeast Indiana. The nonprofit university is a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU).
HUNTINGTON, Ind. — Huntington University is pleased to announce that Isaac Barber has been hired as the director of student success. Barber will succeed Scott Raymond, who announced his retirement earlier this year, effective August 15.
Barber comes to Huntington with six years of experience in higher education, first as a resident director, then as area coordinator of freshmen curriculum followed by director of residence life and graduate admissions.
“I was a history education major during my undergraduate time at Greenville University, and I loved the classes, but by the end, I had zero intention of being a teacher,” said Barber. “I got more involved with higher education beyond my RA job and eventually landed a job as a residential director and fell in love.”
With roots already in the Midwest, Barber is, in some ways, returning home. He was born and raised in Chicago and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in history and political science from Greenville College in Illinois. His education then took him to Virginia, where he earned his Master of Divinity degree with a specialization in leadership from Liberty University.
Daniel Solms, vice president for enrollment management and marketing, pointed out that Barber’s background in ministry leadership and student life has positioned him well for this new role. The focus of the Office of Student Success is serving students, often when they are at their most vulnerable.
“Everyone who interviewed Isaac loved him. He’s a gifted connector who genuinely cares for people — those attributes make him a natural for the Forester Nation,” said Solms. “On top of that, he’s a good strategist and a problem-solver. Isaac will no doubt become a leader at Huntington.”
Barber describes himself as a “big-time extrovert, with a big-time nerdy side when it comes to data and trends in higher education,” which sets him up well to lead the Office of Student Success.
“I am very excited about the opportunity to serve students in this way. At an early age we are taught that we could be whatever we want to be,” said Barber. “We are also taught that there is nothing that is impossible with the help of God. Huntington is a place that sees those promises and seeks to create an environment that allows those things to be true. I am excited to be a part of that. I also love to be able to support students in their own arena outside of the classroom. I love attending students’ concerts, sporting events, and being a part of tradition.”
HUNTINGTON, Ind. — Huntington University is pleased to announce the transition to our new dining services partner, Sodexo. This partnership will begin August 1, 2020.
“Sodexo is elated to be returning to a partnership with Huntington University,” said Steve Chavira, Sodexo district manager. “Sodexo has a rich history of food service with schools in Indiana, and we are excited to be adding Huntington back into our business. Our roots in Indiana will allow us to deploy a wide web of support from other institutions, as well as our internal support team. We are excited for our new dining program and cannot wait to have students back dining with us.”
Sodexo has over 50 years of industry experience. What started in 1966 has grown to a global community that impacts 100 million consumers daily. With a specific expertise in university dining, Sodexo brings an understanding of student needs and tastes; necessary attention to sustainability; collaboration and overall regard for the student experience. Sodexo promises a fresh approach to resident dining that provides continuous, all-you-care-to-eat offerings where a chef will design food-forward dishes with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and authentic cuisines. Highlights include Simple Servings, an award-winning approach to allergen-free dining, brick oven pizza and breakfast all day.
“I am pleased that Sodexo has agreed to be our new dining service provider,” said Dr. Ron Coffey, vice president for student life. “One aspect of our Faith Forward 2022 strategic plan is to deliver a top shelf dining experience for our students. We believe that with Sodexo we can achieve this goal.”
Chief Operating Officer Dr. Russ Degitz agrees, stating that Sodexo “did an outstanding job of working with us from a financial standpoint, quality standpoint and service assurances.”
Safety is a top priority in the dining program at Huntington University. According to Sodexo, the precautions that guests will see as they dine on campus include
“I am looking forward to working with the members of Sodexo to continue to give HU students a top-of-the-line dining service,” said Josh Wilson, vice president of HU’s Student Government Association (SGA). “Students in the fall can expect a dining experience that is tailored both to the current circumstances as well as the individual needs of students. Sodexo is enthusiastic about serving the current needs of our campus and is eager to hear feedback from students.”
Sodexo states its commitment to providing nutrition education support for Huntington University through efforts such as
“As a global company, Sodexo brings incredible resources to the table,” said Coffey. “We look forward to exploring how this new partnership will benefit HU and the broader Huntington community going forward.”
HUNTINGTON, Ind. — The presidents of nine Indiana colleges and universities met remotely on Friday, July 10, along with dozens of Indiana state, city and civic leaders to listen, discuss mutual needs and better understand how to advance the work of racial justice and transformation. The nine presidents explain, “We lament the brutal deaths of innocent African-American men and women that have created such pain, anger and frustration for our communities. We grieve over the violence and division that threaten to tear apart the social fabric of our communities and our nation. As persons of faith, and leaders of Christ-centered universities, we wish to come together to do all we can do to promote the well-being of the people and communities we serve.”
The two-hour conversation took place among 60 northcentral Indiana leaders, including presidents, chancellors, politicians, mayors, law enforcement officers, NAACP leaders, academic leaders and other city and civic leaders, and reiterated the importance of collective action to rid Indiana of the effects of systemic racism.
“These conversations engage community leaders in crucial dialog around the issues of racism and social injustice in our region, state and nation,” said Dr. Sherilyn Emberton, president of Huntington University. “We are thankful for this first step in beginning a culture of listening and responding with intentionality for real change.”
President John Pistole of Anderson University (Anderson), President Sherilyn Emberton of Huntington University (Huntington), President Bill Katip of Grace College and Seminary (Winona Lake), President Gregg Chenoweth of Bethel University (Mishawaka), Interim President Paige Cunningham of Taylor University (Upland), President David McFadden of Manchester University (North Manchester), President Karl Einolf of Indiana Tech (Fort Wayne), President Rebecca Stoltzfus of Goshen College (Goshen) and President David Wright of Indiana Wesleyan University (Marion) each invited members of their local communities to participate in this conversation.
Dr. Emberton invited Huntington County Commissioner Tom Wall; Senator Andy Zay; Senator Travis Holdman; Chief of Police for the City of Huntington Chad Hacker; Dr. Ron Coffey, vice president for student life at Huntington University; Reverend Arthur Wilson; Chief of Police for Huntington University Keirsch Cochran; and Huntington Mayor Richard Strick.
“It’s an important step forward for regional leaders in law enforcement, local government, and higher education to gather together around issues of race and justice in America,” said Strick. “We have a long road ahead of us in the conversations and subsequent work but it’s a road worth traveling. I know Huntington will do our part to keeping taking a step forward each day.”
Taylor University Interim President Cunningham introduced a four-member panel of religious and academic leaders who spoke about the realities of living as Black professionals in a racially unjust world. Panelists shared insights about experiences of exclusion, concerns about personal and family safety and the need to address difficult issues through transformational conversations. They shared evidence in their communities of progress toward the goal of inclusion for all. More listening is needed. More self-inspection with the willingness to move along in the process of conquering racism needs to take place. More bridges in personal understanding and commitment need to be built.
President John Pistole of Anderson University introduced the second panel, which consisted of law enforcement officials from the FBI and from Madison County. Mr. Paul Keenan, special agent in charge of the Indiana Field Office of the FBI, provided clarity on the FBI's mandate to address civil rights issues and provided data on the number of hate crimes and color of law cases being reviewed at this present time. Local law enforcement leaders spoke candidly about the importance of providing better training for officers and accountability for supervisors as well as the importance of continuing to support local law enforcement efforts as they work toward education and reform. There were specific calls for empowered review boards and for meaningful reform of some police practices. Efforts that have been made to dialogue with people in their local communities have proven to be very helpful for all.
As a part of the panel on law enforcement reform, James Burgess, president of the Anderson-Madison NAACP, provided powerful insights into the ways in which the NAACP and activist organizations engage in much-needed discussions of appropriate law enforcement reforms. Burgess emphasized that the NAACP does not tolerate violence, nor are they interested in overthrowing existing government structures that serve local communities well. He did, however, emphasize the importance of continuing to work toward police reform, de-escalation training, a ban on knee-holds and the creation of citizen review boards with subpoena power present in all communities.
Lastly, President Katip of Grace College and Seminary facilitated a conversation with individuals in specific communities where significant change has taken place. Iric Headley of Fort Wayne United shared the compelling results they have seen in the city of Fort Wayne over the last four years through intentional conversations, building relationships through small group meetings, community forums and racial dialogues. Through the city administration’s proactive efforts, Fort Wayne has seen a 66% decrease in aggravated assaults, 55% decrease in hand-to-fist altercations, 33% decrease in burglaries, 28% decrease in auto theft and 63% decrease in shootings, which speaks to the power of dialogue, listening, building relationships and education.
Goshen College President Rebecca Stoltzfus invited Goshen Mayor Jeremy Stutsman to share about a recent “no-tolerance for racism” resolution their city passed. As recently as the 1970s, Goshen was known as a “sundown city.” The city leaders are proactively working to eradicate racism from their midst. They serve as an example for other cities in taking an official anti-racism stance.
Arthur Wilson, Dean of Spiritual Life and Campus Pastor, summed up the summit saying, “This is the first of, hopefully, many continued conversations around topics that are essential to helping our communities effectively respond to current societal pandemics.” He went on to explain that a key reason these conversations are so valuable is because “it’s easy to assume someone’s views. You prejudge what their response might be, but when you hear them talk, you see that those preconceptions aren’t always valid.”
LIST OF PANELISTS
Panel #1
Dr. Joanne Barnes, Dean of the Graduate School and Professor with the Department of Leadership Studies, Indiana Wesleyan University
Rev. Gregory Dyson, Special Assistant to the President for Intercultural Initiatives, Taylor University
Michael Thigpen, Director of Cultural Resource Center, Anderson University
Rev. Arthur Wilson, Dean of Spiritual Life/Campus Pastor, Huntington University
Panel #2
Paul Keenan, FBI, Special Agent in charge of the Field Office for Indianapolis, Indiana
Rodney Cummings, Madison County Prosecutor
Scott Mellinger, Madison County Sheriff
James Burgess, Anderson-Madison NAACP President
Panel #3
Iric Headley, Fort Wayne United Director
Goshen Mayor Jeremy Stutsman
Gilberto Perez, Jr., Dean of Students, Goshen College and City Council Member for City of Goshen
HUNTINGTON, Ind. — Huntington University is pleased to announce the winners of this year’s alumni awards: William Smith-Hinds, Brian More and Sharon (Kershner) Metzger. The formal awards presentation will take place during Homecoming Weekend.
Smith-Hinds will claim the Distinguished Alumni Award, and More and Metzger will each receive the Alumnus of the Year distinction.
The Distinguished Alumni Citation is designed to recognize exceptional service or achievement over a longer period of time – a premise similar to a lifetime achievement award. Smith-Hinds, a graduate of the Class of 1968, was born in Honduras and became a naturalized United States citizen. While at Huntington then-College, Smith-Hinds worked as a janitor, but after graduation he went on to earn his Master of Arts degree from Temple University in 1971 and graduated with his PhD from Notre Dame in 1980. From there, he went on to teach at a variety of institutes of higher education as well as pastor churches, including the United Brethren Mission in Honduras.
Huntington University’s Alumnus of the Year award is designed to recognize an alumnus’ outstanding achievement or recognition. This year, the University will honor two deserving alumni: Brian More and Sharon (Kershner) Metzger.
More serves as the CFO for Micropulse Corporation, a medical device company with 400+ employees. He has shown himself to be a man of integrity and innovative leadership throughout his career, having shepherded start-up companies and championed corporate chaplains in the industry.
Metzger serves as the executive director of Place of Grace, an organization that envisions a Christ-centered community that empowers women to be responsible citizens with a future and a hope. She leads a small team of staff and volunteers in redemptive and relational ministry that requires incredible amounts of empathy. She has worked hard to establish a positive working relationship with the courts system, and she regularly collaborates with other organizations to provide all of the necessary services for her residents.
“I am thrilled to offer the 2020 Huntington University Alumni Awards to these deserving individuals,”
said Danielle Shafer, director of Alumni Relations and Engagement.
“While I’m not a voting member of the Board, I was so encouraged to see these three names rise to the top. They have each made and continue to make a significant impact in their communities.”
For more information about alumni awards or to nominate a Forester for one of next year’s awards, please visit huntington.edu/Alumni-Awards.
Huntington University is a comprehensive Christian college of the liberal arts offering graduate and undergraduate programs in more than 70 academic concentrations. U.S. News & World Report ranks Huntington among the best colleges in the Midwest, and Forbes.com has listed the university as one of America’s Best Colleges. Additionally, Princeton Review has named the institution a “Best Midwestern College.” Founded in 1897 by the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, Huntington University is located on a contemporary, lakeside campus in northeast Indiana. The non-profit university is a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU).
HUNTINGTON, Ind. —Dr. Jeff Webb, professor of history at Huntington University, has published a new lecture series, Benjamin Franklin: Made in America. The audiobook is now available on Apple Books.
“I’m passionate about this topic because Benjamin Franklin is perhaps the most ‘relatable’ figure from early American history,” said Webb.“ He started out in life as a modest tradesman and worked hard to achieve success.”
Webb has studied Franklin since graduate school and taught Franklin’s autobiography in U.S. history courses for 20 years. The Benjamin Franklin: Made in America series has been in development for six months, with the professional audio recording of the lectures over the course of a week in May.
Besides seeing Franklin as a relatable historical figure, Webb goes on to explain that Franklin was “also a pretty funny guy who liked to socialize and to travel. He didn’t finish school or go to college but he’s one of the smartest Americans who ever lived because he spent time reading and discussing the big ideas with his friends. When he came across a problem, he studied it intensely and tried to come up with workable solutions. He always tried to improve his community and to bring people together to make necessary changes. Finally, because he had such an active mind, he was willing to hear people out and change his thinking, most famously in the case of slavery and the rights of African Americans, but also on other issues as well.”
Benjamin Franklin: Made in America is published by Learn25 and is available through Apple Books at books.apple.com. The series is narrated by Dr. Jeff Webb and was released this month.
HUNTINGTON, Ind. — Huntington University is pleased to congratulate Kristin Wineland Rentschler, Class of 1999, on being named the 2020 Hannah E. (Liz) MacGregor Senior Division Teacher of the Year Award Winner by the National History Day organization.
National History Day (NHD) is a “year-long academic program focused on historical research, interpretation and creative expression for 6th to 12th grade students. By participating in NHD, students become writers, filmmakers, web designers, playwrights and artists as they create unique contemporary expressions of history.” The experience concludes with a series of contests at the local and affiliate levels and an annual national competition in Washington, D.C. in June.
“For the benefit of her students’ future academic and professional careers,” said National History Day Executive Director Dr. Cathy Gorn, “Mrs. Rentschler understands the importance of teaching the fundamental skills of a historian. She also invigorates the process with innovative ideas and inspires her students to craft impressive projects. She is a beacon for both experienced and novice National History Day teachers, and I congratulate Mrs. Rentschler for winning this award.”
"Kristin Wineland Rentschler was an outstanding student at Huntington University, so it has not surprised me at all that she is a sterling teacher who leads and inspires her students to do amazing work in the National History Day competitions,” said Dr. Dwight Brautigam, professor of history and chair of the Department of History & Political Science. “I have had the privilege over the last several years to accept Kristin's gracious invitation to take some history education students and fellow faculty to her high school each fall and help her students work on some aspects of their NHD projects. She also recruited several of us to work as judges at the regional NHD competition in Fort Wayne this past February. On both occasions our HU students came away with great enthusiasm for Kristin as a role model for their own future teaching careers, proving that she not only is a fantastic teacher of high school students but an inspiration for future social studies teachers. This prestigious award simply recognizes what those of us who know Kristin already knew: she is the best!"
Rentschler is a social studies teacher and the department chair at Columbia City High School in Columbia City, Indiana. Rentschler has participated in the Albert H. Small: Normandy Sacrifice for Freedom Student and Teacher Institute, was recognized as the Patricia Behring Teacher of the Year in Indiana in 2015 and received the Dekko Teach to Reach Award for Whitley County in 2003.
HUNTINGTON, Ind. — Huntington University graduate Bailey Funkhouser, Class of 2020, was part of the inaugural class of the first accredited occupational therapy assistant (OTA) bachelor’s degree program in the nation. Now, she is making history again as the first OTA bachelor’s degree graduate to pass her National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) examinations.
Passing the NBCOT exams is required to practice OT, and you can only sit for the 200-question exam if you graduate from an accredited program.
“As a student, Bailey was conscientious, accountable, humble and undeniably a hard worker,” said Dr. Nicole Scheiman, OTA program director at Huntington University. “She put the time and effort in to do her very best, each and every time!”
The five-year accreditation for HU’s occupational therapy assistant program was granted by ACOTE, the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education, earlier this year.
“Providing the occupational therapy degree at the bachelor’s level impacts the future of occupational therapy in that it gives students unique options,” said Scheiman. “Many of our students will continue on and practice as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, some are continuing on to our doctoral program and some are considering pairing their degree with degrees in speech and physical therapy to become a dual-credential/licensed healthcare practitioner.”
Huntington University Arizona is pleased to announce that Tiffany Glazier has joined the Forester Family as the administrative assistant for the Doctoral Program in Occupational Therapy in Arizona.
A graduate of Arizona State University, Glazier holds a degree in human nutrition followed by over two decades working as a dietitian.
“I'm so excited to be a part of the HU Arizona team,” said Glazier. “I feel a Christ-centered education is so important and I can't wait to make a difference in students’ lives. Healthcare is my passion; I'm looking forward to assisting students in meeting their career goals.”
The HU Arizona and OT teams feel the same.
“Tiffany’s background makes her a solid fit for this position as we gear up to welcome our first cohort of OT students in Arizona,” said Jeff Berggren, director of Arizona operations.
Huntington University Arizona opened its doors in 2016, welcoming students seeking a degree in digital media arts. Since that time, students have created regionally and nationally awarded work, including ADDY awards, BEA Best of Fest awards, and Emmy Student Production Awards. The 30,000-square-foot building houses bachelor’s degree programs in animation, film production, broadcast media, and graphic design. The facility features film and TV studios, high-end computer classroom/labs, private editing suites, a state-of-the-art TV control room, a Foley pit, a host of EFP and cinema cameras, and lighting gear for student production work.
Huntington University Arizona is pleased to announce the hiring of Jeff Del Nero as assistant professor of visual art. Del Nero has taught as an adjunct faculty member at HU Arizona for several semesters and will take on a full-time role beginning in August 2020. With a focus on graphic design, Del Nero will bring a new level of expertise and professional connection to the HU Arizona team.
Del Nero earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in painting and drawing from California State University and his MFA in visual art from Azusa Pacific University. His background includes working as a senior graphic designer and an adjunct instructor at a variety of universities, but perhaps his longest work experience has been with Del Nero Artwork, LLC, where he offers art direction, design, and illustration services to his clients.
“We are excited to have a faculty member of Jeff’s caliber on our team,” said Jeff Berggren, director of Arizona operations. “Our current students already know and love him, and our future students are sure to do the same.”
Berggren may be on to something there. When asked what they thought of the new hire, HU Arizona students shared their thoughts proudly:
“I am very excited to see Jeff Del Nero here as a full-time graphic design professor. He remains one of my favorite professors I have taken a course from. He has been a great mentor to me, and I am excited to see the direction that he takes the program in.” - Koby Aldridge
“Jeff is amazing! He is not only the TALLEST Jeff at Huntington (or maybe ever) but he is also super talented in design as well as being an AWESOME instructor for graphic design. He really helps lead the students [to] be able to evolve and create themselves as professional designers. He definitely is #createdtocreate!” - Samantha Huffer
With a host of art exhibitions under his belt and his own art on display in private collections around the globe, Del Nero has much to share with HU Arizona students.
“Around here I feel a startup mentality, with each person pushing towards defining what will be next for this student body. I hope to contribute a new facet to this. It’s exciting to be participating in building something that changes lives, especially the types of lives I relate to – artist types,” said Del Nero.
HUNTINGTON, Ind. — Huntington University is pleased to announce that the 2020 Digital Media Arts High School Summer Academy will take place VIRTUALLY on June 21-25, 2020.
The DMA Academy is open to incoming high school freshmen through high school seniors who want a glimpse of what it would be like to pursue a degree in animation, broadcast media, or film. Students engage with a community of artists, receive instructions on programs and techniques in the media field and participate in hands-on workshops and projects which can serve as future portfolio pieces. The cost is $200 per attendee.
There are two versions of the Digital Media Arts VIRTUAL Summer Academy, one focused on animation, the other focused on a combination of film and broadcast media. The nature of these projects changes each year, so returning attendees are welcome.
In addition to learning from faculty, participants will gain hands-on experience through workshops and at-home projects applying key artistic principles. Virtual social events will also be available in the evenings for those who wish to participate. Please direct questions or inquiries to the Digital Media Arts assistant at hudma@huntington.edu and visit huntington.edu/DMAAcademy to register.
Huntington University is a comprehensive Christian college of the liberal arts offering graduate and undergraduate programs in more than 70 academic concentrations. U.S. News & World Report ranks Huntington among the best colleges in the Midwest, and Forbes.com has listed the university as one of America’s Best Colleges. Additionally, Princeton Review has named the institution a “Best Midwestern College.” Founded in 1897 by the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, Huntington University is located on a contemporary, lakeside campus in northeast Indiana. The non-profit university is a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU)
HUNTINGTON, Ind. — On May 19, Huntington University hosted its annual Celebration of Service banquet virtually. Directed by Adam Widener, assistant professor of digital media arts/broadcast media, and hosted all the way from sunny Peoria, Arizona, by HU’s Director of Arizona Operations Jeff Berggren, the event was a positive experience for attendees, celebrating milestones of HU employment, honoring retirees, and announcing the Staff Member of the Year.
The 2019-2020 Staff Member of the Year is Lisa Montany, director of financial aid.
“Lisa is a blessing to many people. She is a willing collaborator, a skilled problem-solver, and she has a ‘can-do’ attitude,” said Daniel Solms, vice president for enrollment management and marketing. “Most important, she genuinely cares for students and wants to help them. Huntington University is a better place because Lisa invests herself here.”
Lisa Montany came to HU in 2017 as director of financial aid. In her role, she oversees undergraduate, online and graduate financial aid operations. She lives in Huntington County with her husband, Chris, and their two rescued cats.
“It is such an honor to be nominated and named Staff Member of the Year,” said Montany. “There are so many staff at HU who work tirelessly to support our student body and who deserve this nomination. I’m so grateful to be part of a community that stands united in the mission to serve our students in Christ, Service, and Scholarship.”
Choosing the annual staff member of the year is a joint effort of Huntington University faculty, staff and the senior leadership team. Faculty and staff nominate the recipients whom they feel are deserving of the distinction, then the senior leadership team selects the recipient from the list of recommended nominees.
HUNTINGTON, Ind. — On Tuesday, May 5, the Huntington University Student Government Association held its annual Forester Night, but in an unconventional fashion. Due to the COVID-19 restrictions placed on gatherings, this year’s Forester Night was streamed via Facebook Live and christened Forester Night LIVE! With Huntington University graduate Jonathon Kane, Class of 2018, hosting the event all the way from Hollywood, California, the unique Forester Night experience was met with incredibly positive feedback, underlining the indominable Forester Spirit.
Although faculty and staff chose most of the evening’s awards recipients (see below), graduating undergraduates had the opportunity to select the winners of the night’s three final awards: 2020 Male Forester of the Year, 2020 Female Forester of the Year and 2020 Professor of the Year.
This spring, students nominated and then voted on their choices for the male and female student who truly represent the Forester spirit and are stellar examples of the Class of 2020. Ultimately, as Forester Night revealed, the students named Joelle Beals as Female Forester of the Year and Isaac Sponseller as Male Forester of the Year.
Students also selected one of their favorite faculty members as the 2020 Professor of the Year. The title went to Dr. Mary Ruthi, professor of sociology and Department of Sociology chair. This is the second time Dr. Ruthi has received this coveted award.
Each year, Huntington University faculty give awards to those seniors whom department faculty deem stellar examples of that department’s values. The 2020 department award winners are:
Forester Night LIVE culminated in the awarding of three special honors, the Servant Leadership Award, the Impact Initiative Scholarship Award, and the Paul and Jean Michelson Outstanding Scholar Award.
The Impact Initiative Scholarship Award is a $1,000 scholarship given to a sophomore for use during their junior year and renewable for their senior year. Selection is based on financial need, current and planned involvements both on and off-campus, and a minimum grade point average of 2.7. This year’s recipient was Grace Arndt.
The Servant Leadership Award recognizes students who have demonstrated leadership both on campus and in the surrounding community. This award comes with a $1,000 scholarship and $250 awarded to a local nonprofit of the honorees’ choice. The 2020 honorees are Rebecca Allen and Josiah Bout.
Elected by members of Alpha Chi and awarded on the basis of academic excellence and leadership, the Paul and Jean Michelson Outstanding Scholar Award was awarded to SangJin Woo.
Since it aired, Forester Night LIVE has reached nearly 12,500 people, most during the live broadcast. With nearly 1,000 comments happening in real-time during the two-and-a-half-hour production and nearly 5,000 views since the broadcast (directed by Professor Adam Widener, assistant professor of digital media arts/broadcast media), the success of the event is clear.
HUNTINGTON, Ind. — Although the Alpha Chi National Convention that was scheduled to take place in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on March 19-21, 2020, was cancelled, students in Huntington University's chapter of the Alpha Chi National College Honor Society participated in a virtual convention by submitting talks via video.
Every student in HU’s Alpha Chi chapter who submitted academic work for a scholarship this year either won a scholarship or was named as an alternate for a scholarship:
Alternate regional scholarship/fellowship winners:
Regional scholarship/fellowship winners:
National scholarship winner:
“I attribute the success of our Alpha Chi students this year to three things. First, like athletes, the students are self-motivated to push themselves to do their best work,” said Alpha Chi Faculty Sponsor Dr. Ruth Nalliah. “Second, these students have great faculty mentors who know them well, to set the expectations, inspire them, and give constructive feedback to help them do their best work. Third, at Huntington University we strive to be a community that fosters and promotes academic excellence, encouraging and enabling students to develop their potential from all angles. Each student is of value to the community, and we strive to recognize and develop that potential.”
Election to Alpha Chi is the highest academic honor at Huntington University.
The student-run Six&Two Theater Company is proud to announce its completely virtual “Comedy Through the Ages” one act festival. The plays will premiere on the Huntington University YouTube page. Tickets are available for free (huntington.edu/OneAct).
“The Bear” is a farce about love, loss...and pistols. Popova has been mourning the loss of her husband for seven months when a creditor shows up and demands payment. Popova explains that the steward of her finances won't be back for a couple days, so the creditor agrees to stay until then. Hilarity ensues as the two of them bicker, exchange insults, and finally agree to a duel that doesn't end quite like anyone expected.
“What Women Want Most” is an audio drama about King Arthur who has a ticklish problem. One of his best knights, Sir Harold Pendragon, is guilty of the heinous crime of stealing a kiss from a noble maiden. The penalty is death! But Sir Harold may go free if he can correctly answer one question: "What is it that women want most?"
“Old Detectives Never Die” is a filmed tale of mystery, theft, and all-around confusion for an innocent Tupperware saleslady who just so happened to ring the doorbell of the aging Sherlock Holmes. Holmes might not be the man he used to be, but he still knows a thing or two about finding out the truth. Watch as the great detective himself works to solve yet another mystery while he’s still in his slippers.
The “Comedy Through the Ages” one act festival will begin this weekend starting with “Old Detectives Never Die” on Friday, May 1, at 7:30 p.m.
Check out the event page online.
“Old Detectives Never Die” - May 1 at 7:30 p.m.
“The Bear” - May 2 at 7:30 p.m.
“What Women Want Most” - May 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Tickets are available for free online at huntington.edu/OneAct.
Huntington University is pleased to announce the accreditation of its occupational therapy assistant (OTA) program. This program is the first accredited OTA bachelor’s degree program in the nation.
“As the first accredited OTA program in the country, we are able to provide education that is cutting-edge, evidence-based and state-of-the-art,” said Dr. Nicole Scheiman, OTA department chair and program director. “We can provide advanced education in clinical practice, leadership and professionalism.”
The five-year accreditation was granted by ACOTE, the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education. ACOTE’s endorsement is vital because without accreditation students cannot take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant exam. Without taking and passing this exam, students cannot work as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).
According to Scheiman, accreditation has two fundamental purposes: to assure the quality of the institution or program and to assist in the improvement of the institution or program.
When ACOTE approved providing the occupational therapy assistant degree at the bachelor’s level, Huntington University’s OTA team immediately converted HU’s program accordingly.
“We utilized our advisory board’s recommendations heavily to ensure our program was designed with the best interests of our communities and occupational therapy practitioners in mind,” said Scheiman. “While accreditation is very time consuming, it ensures that our students are getting the very best education and are being prepared adequately to take and pass the NBCOT exam to practice.”
As the first OTA program in the country to be offered at the bachelor’s level, Huntington University offers students something very unique and innovative, noted Scheiman. Having the degree at the bachelor’s level prepares Huntington University graduates for leadership positions that require a bachelor’s degree. Graduates will have a competitive edge in the healthcare arena with advanced education in their field, and employers will have employees who are prepared to be leaders, lifelong learners, and top-level practitioners.
“As a Clinical Fieldwork Educator, my experience with Huntington University students has been very positive,” said Boyd Teusch, COTA/L. “Each student has been thoroughly prepared for the clinical experience. They have been accepting of feedback and eager to learn. Their clinical reasoning skills are evident during debriefing and in their documentation. I am excited to be a partner of the Huntington University occupational therapy assistant program!”
Huntington University’s Class of 2020 will be the first class of students in the nation to graduate with Bachelor of Science degrees in occupational therapy assistant.
“This is an amazing accomplishment that we all have worked for the past four years,” said Ashley Brown, senior OTA major. “This program has made me fall in love with occupational therapy. It wasn’t easy but it has definitely been worth it. I think the advantage of this for me will be to help me get a higher-paying position, help me be a better leader, help me be more marketable for a higher position, and to not have to settle for a job.”
Huntington University is pleased to announce the hiring of Kory Alford as the new Forester men’s basketball coach.
Alford currently serves as the director of player development for the Nevada Wolf Pack (University of Nevada, Reno). Prior to that role, he held various roles for the basketball team at his alma mater, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
“I am honored and grateful for this opportunity, and I would like to thank Dr. Emberton, Lori Culler, Russ Degitz and the entire committee for entrusting me to become the next head men’s basketball coach at Huntington University,” said Alford. “It has always been my dream to lead a basketball program, and to be able to do so at a school with such tradition in my home state of Indiana is truly special. God has blessed me throughout my career in this sport, and I consider it a great privilege to be able to contribute to the Christ-centered mission of Huntington University.”
In an interview with Nevada Sports Net earlier this year, Steve Alford predicted his son’s career trajectory, saying “I think he’s got a tremendous future. He’s got the mind of a coach.” It’s that mind that the Foresters are relying on and excited about.
“We are thrilled to have Kory join our coaching staff and HU community,” said Lori Culler, athletic director at Huntington University. “Basketball has always been an important part of Kory’s life, and his wealth of experiences at the Division I level have prepared him for this opportunity. He brings tremendous knowledge of the game, strong recruiting connections, Indiana family ties and a faith-infused approach to coaching that will enable him to hit the ground running. We are excited about the future of our men's basketball program with Kory at the helm.”
Alford’s experience as an athlete and a coach for NCAA Division I programs gives him key insights into team dynamics and operations. While on the coaching staff at University of Nevada, Alford focused on scouting and was the key coordinator of the international recruiting strategy that led to nearly a dozen commitments in one year. He spent four seasons on staff at UCLA as the video analytics coordinator after playing two seasons for the Bruins and two seasons at New Mexico. Alford’s immersion in high-level basketball programs makes him an ideal fit to lead at HU. His abilities in recruiting, film and statistical analysis and building relationships with players will serve him well in the highly competitive Crossroads League.
As a player, he helped four teams reach the NCAA Tournament, which included the 2014 and 2015 squads advancing to the Sweet 16. During his prep career at La Cueva High School in Albuquerque, New Mexico, he was part of two state championship teams.
Between his time at UCLA and New Mexico, Alford's teams won three conference tournament titles and two conference regular-season crowns.
Alumni of Forester Athletics are excited to see Alford take charge of the men’s basketball team.
“I couldn’t be more excited to have Kory as the next head men’s basketball coach at Huntington University,” said Jeff Shepherd, class of 1999 and four-year member of the Forester basketball team. “Kory rose to the top of a tremendous candidate pool and is ready to lead the men’s basketball program on and off the court.”
Alford, son and grandson of Indiana basketball legends Steve and Sam Alford, earned his bachelor’s degree in sociology from UCLA in 2015 and a master’s degree from the University of San Francisco in 2017. Alford and his wife, Haley, look forward to being back home again in Indiana.
The much-anticipated construction on the Huntington Union Building (HUB) at the heart of Huntington University’s campus is officially underway. With Fetters Construction Inc. directing the project, the University looks forward to a smooth renovation process that will result in a first-class student center.
“The great thing in this decision is that we had already allocated the funds to engage in this project as well as encumbered two years of note payments,” said Dr. Sherilyn Emberton, president of Huntington University. “It was a clear decision that the HUB would be a great win for our campus, and one that students can celebrate on their return.”
Though several strong and capable companies bid on the project, ultimately the project was awarded to Fetters Construction Inc.
“Fetters Construction has been a valued and trusted partner to Huntington University for many years,” said Dr. Russ Degitz, chief operating officer at Huntington University. “We embarked on a competitive bid process to be the best stewards of our resources, and Fetters Construction was the best fit.”
Naturally, there is a mixture of excitement and inconvenience with this large undertaking.
“We hope that excitement builds and our campus community enjoys watching the reimagined HUB take shape,” said Degitz. “We intend to work closely with our contractors to ensure that inconveniences and disruptions are kept to a minimum.”
It is estimated that construction will be completed by the end of the calendar year (December 2020).
“The HUB remains the center of our curricular and co-curricular conversations outside of classroom hours. Relationships and collaborations are formed here that last a lifetime,” said Emberton. “Personally, I want to give back to our campus a facility that is dedicated to serving them well. I can’t wait to see how God is going to show up in this place!”
The faculty and staff at Huntington University aren’t letting COVID-19 stop them from connecting (virtually) with current students and future students. Prior to the “shelter at home” order for the state of Indiana, HU’s School of the Arts was preparing for a visit event featuring Dallas Jenkins, creator and producer of The Chosen, the first-ever multi-season show about the life of Christ.
Though Jenkins can’t be on site in person, he will still be here virtually!
Dallas stepped into the world of film in his early 20s and now, over two decades later, has:
And those are just a few of the highlights.
But it’s his latest project that is, perhaps, nearest and dearest to his heart. It’s his experience with The Chosen that Dallas will share about in his Visiting Artist Talk/Q&A on April 16, and you’re invited to join!
The virtual visit day will feature:
“Dallas’ writing and directing are a true inspiration for today’s young storytellers who want to impact this world with a message of love, hope and the realities of the human condition in a fallen world,” said Dr. Lance Clark, dean of the School of the Arts.
To learn more about this event or to RSVP, visit huntington.edu/April16
The Huntington University Theatre Company is pleased to announce the 2020-2021 Theatre Season.
“We look at a lot of different things when selecting a season, such as what actors will be returning next year, what other events are going on at HU and in the area, how the shows balance budget-wise, etc.,” said Ryan Long, chair of the Department of Theatre Arts and assistant professor of theatre. “I also try to balance contemporary and classical works so that students get a good mix of both during their time here.”
All three of this year’s shows will be making their Huntington University debut.
Silent Sky by Lauren Gunderson September 24-26, 2020 Studio Theatre Directed by Ryan Long
Fuente Ovejuna by Lope de Vega, translated by Adrian Mitchell November 12-14, 2020 Zurcher Auditorium Directed by Adam Sahli
Seussical music and book by Stephen Flaherty, lyrics and book by Lynn Ahrens, based on the works of Dr. Seuss April 15-17, 2021 Zurcher Auditorium Directed by Alex Price
In addition to bringing something new to Huntington University audiences, the three shows are unique opportunities for student performers and align with the season’s theme: New Perspectives.
“Each show features characters who demonstrate viewing things from a new perspective, as well as sharing that perspective with the audience and other characters in the shows,” said Long.