AlumniEngagement


AlumniNotes Transformed to


Transform Others At NGU, we are deeply committed to the principle of transformational leadership. Our mission is to glorify God by nurturing graduates who are fully equipped to become transformational leaders in both the church and society. Transformational leadership is not just about inspiration; it’s about unleashing individuals’ potential to drive meaningful and lasting change. Our guiding scripture, Romans 12:2, beautifully captures this ethos, encouraging believers: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, so that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”


Since our founding discussions in 1891 to establish a school for the residents of Northern Greenville County, NGU has remained steadfast in its mission. We are dedicated to enriching every student’s life on our campuses in Tigerville, Greer, and Pine Mountain, GA. Our goal is clear: to mold our students into impactful leaders, ready to engage in transformative service wherever God leads them. I compare the journey of transformational leadership to a relay race, where the seamless passing of the baton is critical to success. Each handoff is not just a transfer; it’s a pivotal moment that can either propel us to victory or hinder our momentum. A smooth transition preserves our collective progress, while a misstep can derail our efforts entirely. This relay symbolizes the essence of teamwork, highlighting that true success lies in the unity of our coordinated efforts rather than individual speed. Because God has transformed us, we are empowered to transform others. We take responsibility for passing the baton seriously. Each day, we strive for excellence, determined to enhance our service and be more impactful than the day before. Transformational leadership thrives in our classrooms. It resonates across our campus, where students forge lifelong friendships and engage in initiatives that spark innovation. We wholeheartedly embrace worship opportunities, inviting everyone to exalt the name of Jesus and deepen our relationship with the Lord in our Christian journey. We are unwavering in our commitment to guide students through their challenges and empowering them to run with endurance the race set before them. As we pass the baton


In Memoriam Rev. Doyle Henderson Jones (’53) on July 25, 2025


Catherine Dunaway Young (’54) on Sept. 24, 2024


William C. “Bill” Gunter (’55) on April 17, 2025


Emma Jean Clayton Jackson (’67) on June 23, 2025


Larry Leonard Tippett (’71) on Oct. 3, 2024


Rev. Donald Calvin King (’88) on May 20, 2025


Elizabeth “Liz” Alewine (Friend) on Aug. 21, 2025.


to our students, we equip them with the confidence and skills they need to cross the finish line triumphantly. This embodies the essence of transformational leadership. It is leadership that revitalizes communities, drives corporate growth, uplifts local churches, and strengthens families as they navigate their own transformational journeys with their children.


Every day, we recognize the tremendous blessing of this mission. Your support is vital to sustaining this transformative work. Thirty-one years ago, I began my own journey toward transformational leadership right here in Tigerville. God transformed me from a passive, half-hearted believer into a fervent follower of Jesus, ready to serve wherever he calls. Thanks to the dedication of individuals who believed in NGU’s mission, I overcame every challenge. I seized the baton handed to me and became the transformational leader that God calls each of us to be. When you contribute to the mission of transformational leadership at NGU, your gift directly addresses the pressing needs facing our university today. One of the most important lessons we impart at NGU is to ensure that the next generation has the resources they need to become transformational leaders for God’s glory. We have more batons to pass. Will you join us in this crucial work? Your partnership isn’t just appreciated; it will truly make a world of difference!


Lamont Sullivan (’98, MA ’13) Senior Associate Vice President for Alumni Engagement and Athletic Development


Dr. Victor Clyde Campbell (Friend) on Aug. 16, 2025


Emery Smith (Friend) on May 11, 2025


Billy Wood (Friend) on Sept. 15, 2025


Former NGU Trustee Jimmy Cox Remembered


Former NGU Trustee Jimmy Cox, 88, of Taylors, SC, passed away on September 6, 2025.


“Jimmy Cox was


unwavering in his commitment to honoring God through his work and talents,” said NGU President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. “His generosity and encouragement continue to shape NGU’s Christ-honoring mission.”


Born in Easley, SC, Cox was a U.S. Navy veteran, owner of Walker and Whiteside Electrical Contractors, and a dedicated member of Mountain Creek Baptist Church. He served two terms on NGU’s Board of Trustees and supported scholarships, facilities, and athletics.


He is survived by his wife, Jean, their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.


NGU Mourns the Passing of


Professor Blake Smith NGU Professor


Blake Smith passed away on June 27, 2025, at age 48. A beloved art professor since


20 | NGU.EDU Weddings


Abigail Dover Thomas (’23) to Michael Thomas (’21) in June of 2022. They just celebrated their third anniversary.


Class Notes 1978


Alfreda Ray was inducted in Abbeville High School’s inaugural Athletics Hall of Fame Class, highlighting eight


of the Panthers’ most decorated coaches and players in school history. Alfreda was a standout on the girls’ basketball team from 1972-75. She became the second all-time leading scorer at Abbeville and earned All-Skyline Conference and All-State honors in 1974. Ray went on to play at NGU and


2003, Smith was known for his creativity, faith, and devotion to students.


“Professor Smith was dedicated to excellence in everything he did – from his teaching to his artwork to his faith,” said NGU President Fant. “His influence will endure for many years to come.”


A Lander and Clemson University graduate, Smith’s artwork was displayed worldwide. He was a mentor, artist, and friend, whose Christ-centered teaching and gentle spirit deeply shaped the NGU community.


NGU Gallery Namesake Zelda Rosti Dies


Zelda Rosti VanKirk, 90, died October 2, 2025, in Landrum, SC.


Born in Washington, DC, and reared in northern Virginia, Zelda was instrumental in creation of the Rosti Gallery at NGU, which displays both student and guest artist works on the Tigerville campus. The gallery was named for her and her late husband, Earl Rosti. She is survived by her husband Ray Van Kirk, five children, 12 grandchildren, and 25 grandchildren.


Erskine, where she earned all-state recognition.


1990


Debra Rowland Allen received his graduate Gemologist diploma from the Gemological Institute of America in January 2024 and is currently serving as the bridal coordinator for a family owned and operated jeweler as well as being a brand ambassador for Gabriel and Co.


2001


Tara Hall Burch is an English language acquisition teacher at A-B Tech College in Asheville, NC. She teaches English


to immigrants who have moved to America for a new life.


Hannah Simpson, manager of workforce management and task solutions for Rack Room Shoes was named an outstanding female executive by Chain Store Age at its 2025 Retail’s Top Women Awards presentation. Sponsored by Melissa, the awards highlight the crucial role women play in key areas of retail operations. The program drew nominations from across all sectors of the U.S. retail industry. Individuals were recognized in categories that include corporate leadership, technology, marketing, supply chain and finance. Hannah was named in the Technology category.


2003


Jason Engle began two new roles at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is a part-time associate


professor of Christian Ministry and associate director of Ed.D. Studies. He first began his tenure with SEBTS in January of 2024 as an adjunct professor in student ministry, tasked also with helping to evaluate and expand student ministry curriculum across all degrees. During that time, he had the privilege of helping SEBTS develop the D.Min. student ministry track that launched at the beginning of 2025. In addition to these new roles, he continues to


serve full-time as teaching pastor at Westwood Baptist Church, in Roxboro, NC, where he has served since 2006.


2004


Philip Turner (MCM ’14), has joined the team at BP Skinner Clothiers in Columbia, SC, in a full-time role.


BP Skinner is a men’s clothing store that offers casual to custom clothing. He also serves as pastor to young adults at Shandon Baptist Church.


2005


Heidi Dodson Anderson is a senior lecturer in the Department of Genetics and Biochemistry at Clemson University and was awarded the College of Science Excellence in Teaching Award on May 1, 2025.


Brandon Bryan, after serving a decade in the U.S. Army, has gone back to his hometown of Saluda, SC, to open


Iron South Barbering Co. on Main Street. He decided to return to Saluda after being deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, and was stationed in Colorado, Georgia and Hawaii. He received two purple hearts after being severely injured and retired from the Army.


2006


Betsy Price Brown was promoted to human resources manager at Grace Management in Spartanburg, SC, where she has worked for 18 years since her NGU graduation.


2008


Stephen McMahan was an actor in the latest “How to Pack a Shoebox” video produced by Samaritan’s Purse.


It is available via resource kits for volunteers/churches participating in packing shoeboxes with Operation Christmas Child, viewable online, featured in emails and social media posts for this season and beyond. The video is in the style of a live sporting event, and Stephen acts


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