Monthly News Archives: June 2014

TexasBank awards $25,000 in scholarship funds to HPU through Doss Foundation

TexasBank presentation 2014 for web BROWNWOOD – June 24, 2014 – TexasBank recently presented $25,000 to Howard Payne University through the Doss Foundation. The donation was part of $88,000 in scholarship funds that will be given to local and area high schools and colleges in 2014.

Within the past seven years, the Doss Foundation has given more than $425,000 to area educational institutions.

“TexasBank is proud to be affiliated with the Doss Foundation, whose gift will give back to local students through HPU’s Heart of Texas Scholarship Fund,” said Greg Dodds, president and CEO of TexasBank. “The Heart of Texas Scholarship has played a vital role in providing an affordable path to a quality university degree for our local high school students. The success of this program is evidenced by the steadily increasing proportion of the total student population at HPU that is comprised of our own kids from nearby communities. The Board and Ownership of TexasBank value our relationship with Howard Payne University, and we are honored to support this institution and its students.”

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Photo cutline: Greg Dodds, left, president and CEO of TexasBank, presents a $25,000 check to Dr. Bill Ellis, HPU president.

HPU faculty member publishes book on worship and the Baptist faith

Hatch with book for web BROWNWOOD – June 20, 2014 – Dr. Derek Hatch, assistant professor of Christian studies at Howard Payne University, recently co-edited “Gathering Together: Baptists at Work in Worship,” a collection of essays examining how worship shapes the Baptist faith.

Penned by pastors and scholars from across the United States, the essays take a close look at the act of liturgy or corporate worship. According to Dr. Hatch, a reoccurring metaphor throughout the book views worship as a “seamless garment.”

“Baptists often think of worship as comprised of individual acts such as sermons, music, greeting periods and a time of invitation,” he said. “But ‘Gathering Together’ seeks to examine how each act reinforces the others and serves to strengthen church communities.”

Dr. Hatch stated that the purpose of the book is not to promote or emphasize one style of worship over another, but rather to encourage intentional and theological reflection on these acts by ministers and churchgoers.

“Regardless of style, we want Baptists to think intentionally about worship and to constantly move toward a ‘seamless garment,’” he said.

“Gathering Together” is co-edited by Rodney Wallace Kennedy, lead pastor of First Baptist Church in Dayton, Ohio. It is available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble and directly from the publisher at www.wipfandstock.com.

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Photo cutline: Dr. Derek Hatch, assistant professor of Christian studies at HPU, discusses his new book, “Gathering Together: Baptists at Work in Worship,” at a recent book-signing event on campus.

Robotics, 3D printing among subjects for HPU’s Summer Scholars and Young Scholars camps

BROWNWOOD – June 18, 2014 – Howard Payne University will host its annual Summer Scholars and Young Scholars programs July 14-18 from 9 a.m. to noon in HPU’s Newman Hall building. The programs, for students in first through sixth grades, will feature innovative instruction in a variety of subjects. The theme for this year is “Jacket Innovators.”

“We have an expert lineup of HPU professors and area public-school teachers who are leaders in the fields of study they will be teaching our students,” said Dr. Julie Welker, director of the programs. Dr. Welker is the chair of the Department of Communication and professor of communication at HPU. “The curriculum this year includes technology, robotics, 3D printing, biology, music and physical education.”

In the Summer Scholars program, students entering fourth through sixth grades will study 3D printing, robotics, biological sciences and physical education. The Young Scholars program is designed for children entering first through third grades. The campers will receive instruction in robotics, technology, music and physical education.

“Students in Summer Scholars will have hands-on experience with Mindstorm NXT robots and 3D printing,” Dr. Welker said. “They will also attend a biological sciences class where they will see first-hand how 3D printing and robotics are applied.”

For the first time, Dr. Welker said, students in Young Scholars will also attend classes in robotics.

“They will go to a technology class to learn about programming,” she said. “They will also attend a music class to bring the arts and sciences together in a single comprehensive program.”

The programs are designed to be fun as well as educational.

“We like to provide classes that students can enjoy and hopefully they take that knowledge back to school with them,” said Dr. Welker. “It’s important for our children to be exposed to cutting-edge technology in our fast-paced world. And the best part: it’s a no-pressure environment through which kids can learn without worrying about a test.”

Several of the camp instructors are from Early ISD, a district highly regarded for its outstanding robotics program and related faculty.

This year’s Summer Scholars teachers include Melinda Elkins, seventh-grade language arts teacher and coach at Early ISD; Tami Hull, sixth-grade science teacher at Early Middle School and coach of the robotics and University Interscholastic League science and mathematics teams; Dr. Kristen Hutchins, assistant professor of biology at HPU, who holds a doctoral degree in curriculum and instruction in the area of science education; and Dr. Lester Towell, chair of the Department of Computer Information Systems and associate professor of CIS at HPU.

Young Scholars teachers include Melinda Elkins; Deanna Erxleben, instructor of music at HPU, who holds a master’s degree in vocal performance with a concentration in voice science and pedagogy reading; Jennifer McKibben, eighth-grade science and robotics coach at Early Middle School; and Keith Taylor, fourth-grade science teacher at Early ISD and Early Elementary robotics coach.

Cost for the Summer Scholars and Young Scholars programs is $100 per student and includes a souvenir, snacks and supplies. The deadline for registration is July 10.

“HPU is pleased to offer this program to provide children an opportunity to take age-appropriate classes, introducing them to new ways of thinking and ideas that will give them an edge in the classroom and the world,” Dr. Welker said.

Online registration is available at www.hputx.edu/scholars. For more information about the Summer Scholars and Young Scholars programs, contact Dr. Welker at (325) 649-8508 or via e-mail at jwelker@hputx.edu. You can also join the Facebook group by searching for “Summer and Young Scholars” on www.facebook.com.

HPU Update, Summer 2014

HPU group travels to Slovakia for cross-cultural mission trip

BROWNWOOD – June 13, 2014 – Dr. Melody Maxwell, assistant professor of Christian studies at Howard Payne University, and five students from her spring International Missions Practicum course recently traveled to Važec, Slovakia, for a week-long mission experience. The course is designed to give students firsthand experience in cross-cultural service.

The group led ministry activities among the Roma and Slovak people and learned from the missiology of Shane and Dianne McNary, the field personnel with whom they served.

“We spent the semester at HPU learning about the history and culture of the Roma, a minority group in Europe that is often mistreated, and were grateful to get to serve among the Roma in Slovakia and learn from the McNarys’ long-term ministry there,” Dr. Maxwell said.

Ministry activities included teaching English in a local school, leading a daily kids club and planning various evening activities. According to Dr. Maxwell, she and the students prepared both academically and spiritually for the trip.

“We studied best practices in short-term missions and prepared for the specific activities we would lead during our trip,” she said. “Among other assignments, students kept journals while in Slovakia and submitted a reflection paper after we returned. All of these activities helped class members grow academically as well as personally through the trip. It was exciting to see students grow in their cross-cultural leadership abilities as we served together.”

The reflection papers reveal the students’ improved knowledge of international missions.

“The biggest thing I feel I can take as a challenge from this trip is that I need to really try to love everyone as God loves everyone,” wrote Mackenzie Gill, a junior from Brownwood.

Sean Locker, a senior from North Richland Hills, wrote, “From this trip I’ve been better able to understand the importance of reading and experiencing different cultures and how it all pertains to global missions. Now that I’ve seen and experienced so much with my own senses I want to study about the world and its affairs all the more.”

In addition to Gill and Locker, students on the trip included Faye Lasserre, senior from Brownwood; Rachel Runnels, senior from Paradise; and Jack Wells, senior from Terrell.

According to Dr. Maxwell, cross-cultural experiences remind students and faculty alike that God’s kingdom is much bigger than HPU, Texas and the United States.

“Experiences like this allow us to participate in the work that God is doing around the world,” she said. “What a privilege!”

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Photo cutline: A group from HPU stands with missionary Dianne McNary in Važec, Slovakia. From left: Jack Wells, Sean Locker, Mackenzie Gill, Dianne McNary, Dr. Melody Maxwell and Faye Lasserre.

HPU honors 216 for academic success during the spring 2014 semester

BROWNWOOD – June 12, 2014 – Howard Payne University honored 216 students for academic success during the spring 2014 semester. Students must earn a 4.0 grade point average to be named to the President’s List, a 3.65-3.99 grade point average to be named to the Dean’s List and a 3.5-3.64 grade point average to be named to the Honor Roll.

Receiving honors were:

Abilene
Jamie Lee Boyd, Dean’s List
Ryan Cade Smith, Dean’s List

Alleyton
Danielle Mae Parkhurst, Dean’s List

Alvarado
Ruby Patricia Johnson, Honor Roll

Alvin
Tori Ann Moore, President’s List

Amarillo
Xavier Juiqueil McFalls, Honor Roll

Anton
Larissa K. Lynskey, President’s List

Apex, N.C.
Kristen Nicole Terway, Honor Roll

Austin
Rebekah Elizabeth Weaver, President’s List
Marley Rose Zochert, Dean’s List

Azle
Steven Austin Mobley, Dean’s List

Baird
Sierra Maurette Damron, President’s List

Ballinger
Ely Chance Self, President’s List

Bangs
Callie Ann Adams, Dean’s List
Victoria Lee Hardin, Honor Roll
Melissa Dawn Ramirez, Dean’s List
Joshua Lee Simons, Honor Roll
Kaitlin Nicole Vernon, Honor Roll

Bertram
Conner Trent Fisher, Dean’s List
Katherine Joyce Licce, President’s List

Big Lake
Samantha Lynn Guerrero, President’s List

Big Spring
Ethan Michael Yeats, Dean’s List

Blanket
Cullan Ross Tidwell, Dean’s List

Bloomfield, N.M.
Shaefer Mcintyre Church, Dean’s List

Boylston, Mass.
Catherine MacDonald Mullaney, President’s List

Brady
Janis Dianne Groves, President’s List

Brazoria
Kody Wayne Cissna, Dean’s List

Brenham
Kassey Diane Nix, Dean’s List

Brownwood
Ashley Renee Arriaga, Honor Roll
Sandy Bean, Dean’s List
Nicholas Calvin Bennie, Honor Roll
Melissa R. Bernal, President’s List
Joan Davina Burks, Dean’s List
Cecil Otis Cox, President’s List
Raymundo Delgado, Honor Roll
Caleb Nathan Dillard, Honor Roll
Jeffrey Scott Edmondson, Dean’s List
Burke Clifton Edwards, President’s List
Justin Allen Fisher, President’s List
Chelsea Nicole Garcia, Dean’s List
Amanda Carlie Gober, President’s List
Meagan Elizabeth Hall, Dean’s List
Daniel Aaron Harmon, Dean’s List
Michael Jeffrey Harmon, President’s List
Jeremy Allen Hogue, President’s List
Molly Jane Hull, President’s List
Kelcie Michelle Hunter, President’s List
Jared Briant Huntley, Dean’s List
Jerry Talton Hurt, President’s List
Megan Michele Irwin, President’s List
Kindry Cruz Kirbo, Honor Roll
Bethany Mae Lee, President’s List
Jarrod Scott McCandless, Dean’s List
Rachel Brooke McDonald, President’s List
Dillon Layne McDugle, President’s List
Shauntel Charity McGlothin, Dean’s List
Sean Peter McMahan, Dean’s List
Saulo Elias Mendoza, President’s List
Jason Alexander Murphy, Honor Roll
Sydnee Paige Petty, President’s List
Amber Dawn Poulter, Honor Roll
William Thomas Rumfield, Dean’s List
Stormy San Miguel, Dean’s List
William Otis Thomas, President’s List
Chelsea Lynn Thomason, President’s List
Brennan Lee Turner, Dean’s List
Brogan Shea Turner, President’s List
Stephanie Michelle Upfold, Honor Roll
Sierra Montana Westerman, President’s List
Laura Caroll Whiteley, President’s List
Joshua Blain Woods, Dean’s List
Andres Jose Zambrano, President’s List

Burkburnett
Blake Tyler Arbogast, Honor Roll

Canyon Lake
Ashley Marie Krohn, Dean’s List

Carrollton
Cristina M. Arevalo, Dean’s List
TaShana Rae Hooker, President’s List

Cedar Creek
Samuel Joe Austin Parmley, Dean’s List

Cedar Park
Emily Janice Peisker, President’s List

Cibolo
Ruth Ann Davis, Dean’s List

Coleman
Allison Kate Straach, President’s List

Comanche
Nathan Wayne Byrd, Dean’s List
Angela Rose Parker, Honor Roll

Copperas Cove
Robert Vincent Martinez, Honor Roll

Corpus Christi
Timothy Devon Hardy, President’s List

Crandall
Darbi Lee Frazier, Dean’s List

Cross Plains
Dianna Jo Megarity, President’s List
Samuel Colton Rockett, Dean’s List

Dallas
Shardena N. Hudson, Dean’s List

Duncanville
Clarissa Leigh Toler, President’s List

Early
Colby Scott Compton, Dean’s List
Thomas Harrison Givan, President’s List
Kevin Fitzgerald Holamon, President’s List
Amy Karen Hurtado, Honor Roll
Lillian Murselle McMillan, Dean’s List
Joanne Jeanette Melton, Dean’s List
Sydni Brooke Thompson, Dean’s List

Eastland
Cody Neal Perrin, Dean’s List

Edinburg
Andrea Shannon Peaster, President’s List

El Paso
Laura Jean Flores, Dean’s List

Ennis
Ashley Briann Chapman, Honor Roll

Erie, Colo.
Hannah Elizabeth Jansen, President’s List

Eufaula, Okla.
Erin E. McLeod, Dean’s List

Farmington, N.M.
Kendyl Ann Moore, Honor Roll

Ferris
Olivia Ann Belsher, Dean’s List

Florence
Luis Anthony Robles, Dean’s List
Daniel William Taylor, President’s List

Fort Stockton
Quelan D’Michal Lancaster, Dean’s List

Fort Worth
Hannah Joan Ball, President’s List
Elizabeth Calee Dill, Honor Roll
Whitney Elisabeth Presbaugh, Dean’s List
Rebekah Lindsay Steadman, Dean’s List
Hannah Elise Williamson, Honor Roll

Fredericksburg
Chandler Jacob Condra, President’s List

Gardendale
Gage Logan Smith, Honor Roll

Garland
Rachel M. Ellington, Dean’s List

Gatesville
Murry Roy Clingerman, Honor Roll

Georgetown
Brittany Rachelle Bailey, Honor Roll
Rachel Ann Mahagan, President’s List
Kara Ann May, Dean’s List
Stephen Gabriel Oates, President’s List
Sydney Drew Spencer, President’s List
Armando Elvis Valdez, Honor Roll

Godley
Tolli Bre Wylie, Dean’s List

Goldthwaite
Janakay Frances Oliver, Dean’s List
Jaime Leann Swanner, President’s List

Granbury
Kelsey Jane Clarke, Dean’s List
Tyler Kirk Jones, President’s List

Grand Saline
Dustan Shayne Neal, Honor Roll

Granger
Aryn Ashlie Kroeker, Dean’s List

Greenbrier, Ark.
Paul Jefferson Warren, President’s List

Gunter
Richard Austin Young, Honor Roll

Harker Heights
Derek Nathan Anderson, Dean’s List

Hillister
Jessi Nicole Jordan, President’s List

Houston
Tonya Kara Bloomer, President’s List

Howe
Taylor Grace Cook, Honor Roll

Iowa Park
Joshua Lee Farquharson, Honor Roll

Iraan
Kaleigh Jo Tankersley, President’s List

Irving
Adam McCoy Jones, President’s List

Jacksboro
Chelsey Breanne Cathey, President’s List

Keller
Cassidy Montana Lindstrom, President’s List

Kenefick
Kevin Benjamin Domingue, President’s List

Kennedale
Allison Nicole Mantell, Dean’s List

Kerrville
James Vincent Abbatiello, President’s List

Killeen
Amanda Michelle Cruddas, Dean’s List
Harley Gail Fine, Dean’s List

La Grange
Valerie Hanna Marrs, Honor Roll

Lampasas
Sarah Katherine Bishop, Honor Roll
Brittany Morgan Cavness, Dean’s List
Jennifer Lynn Hilla, President’s List
Sharon Allen Wolverton, Honor Roll

Landrum, S.C.
Mason Joseph Bird, Honor Roll
Zachary James Bird, Honor Roll

Leander
Dulcie Nicole Pepe, Honor Roll
Ethan Zachary West, President’s List

Levelland
Preston Allen Carpenter, Honor Roll

Lewisville
Marion Renee Stearns, Dean’s List

Liberty Hill
Mason Marie Samsel, Honor Roll

Lytle
Jaclyn Rose Bonner, President’s List
Katie Rose Bonner, President’s List

May
Sarah Katherine Brown, Dean’s List
Nicole Mariah Nehf, President’s List

Mesquite
Ryan Taylor Young, Dean’s List

Midland
Nellie Beau Brieann Clevenger, President’s List

Miles
Caitlin Courtney Wood, Dean’s List

Mission
Danya Alexandra Rios, Honor Roll

Missoula, Mont.
Rebekah Leigh Johnson, Dean’s List

Montgomery
Candace Leeann Montgomery, Dean’s List

Naples, Fla.
Robin Elizabeth Scofield, Honor Roll

New London, Mo.
Allison Ann Ninedorf, Honor Roll

Nocona
Rebecca Nicole Hamilton, President’s List

Odessa
Katie Dawn Murphy, President’s List

Paradise
Mac Eric Villanueba, Honor Roll

Pasadena
Allison Paige Morrison, Dean’s List

Perryton
Keaton James Fletcher, President’s List

Placentia, Calif.
Kyle James Dennis, President’s List

Ponder
Jorden Alexander Young, Honor Roll

Richardson
Ivyanne Alyssa Nichols, Honor Roll

Rising Star
Dale Ross Self, Honor Roll

Rochelle
Cantrell Oldham Miller, President’s List

Rockwall
Blaine Michael Wynn, Honor Roll
Blake Robert Wynn, Honor Roll

Rosenberg
Amber Tabrisha Ren Jones, President’s List

Round Rock
Heather Renee Clayton, President’s List
Summer Christine King, Honor Roll
Kyle Edward Kulczyk, Dean’s List

Salado
Thomas Parker Kyle, President’s List
Michael Joe Sellers, Honor Roll

San Angelo
Cara Ann DeLoach, President’s List
Kristin Leeann Haman, President’s List

San Antonio
Rebecca Marie Etter, Dean’s List
Angelica Maria Gray, Dean’s List
Victoria Rene Krawczynski, President’s List
Julia Mari Rodriguez, Honor Roll

San Juan
Lorien Elisse Rubio, Dean’s List

San Saba
Marshal Lynn McIntosh, Dean’s List

Santo
Sarah Jane Van Remmen, Dean’s List

Sherman
Ashley Paige Krueger, Dean’s List

Sierra Blanca
Rachel Jean Moore, President’s List

Springtown
Mallory Laurette Orms, President’s List

Stafford, Va.
Gloriana Michelle Stolle, Honor Roll

Stephenville
Eaisson Lyric O’Brien, Dean’s List
Courtney Alyse Officer, President’s List
Courtney Jean Tatum, President’s List

Sweetwater
Bryson Taylor Wallace, Honor Roll

Temple
Macy Catherine McPherson, President’s List

Terrell
Haley Clair Jones, Dean’s List

Texarkana
Diana Rebeca Puente Chavar, President’s List

Tolar
McKinley Gayle Meyer, Dean’s List

Victoria
Neva Marie Bowers, President’s List

Wallis
Camryn Leigh D’Rubio, Honor Roll

Waxahachie
Michael Nathan Snow, Dean’s List

Weatherford
Morgan Paige Ashmore, Honor Roll

Whitehouse
Gary Cayden McDonald, Honor Roll

Whitesboro
Katelyn Marie Wood, Dean’s List

Wylie
Wesley Dale Livingston, Honor Roll

Zephyr
Lacy Harrison Culpepper, President’s List

HPU graduates 142 at Commencement in May

BROWNWOOD – June 12, 2014 – Howard Payne University graduated 142 students during its Commencement ceremony at the close of the spring 2014 semester. Dr. Bill Ellis, university president, and other university representatives conferred the degrees.

Students must have a 3.55-3.69 grade-point average to graduate Cum Laude; a 3.70-3.84 GPA to graduate Magna Cum Laude; and a 3.85-4.0 GPA to graduate Summa Cum Laude.

Graduates included:

Abilene
Pricilla Madrid Patino – Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in criminal justice

Anson
Allen Glenn Andrus – Bachelor of Music in music – instrumental (all-level certification), Summa Cum Laude

Arlington
Brittni Marissa West – Bachelor of Science in elementary education (early childhood – grade 6), Cum Laude

Austin
Ryan Heath Colvin – Bachelor of Arts in youth ministry, Cum Laude
Justin Peter Jones – Bachelor of Science in criminal justice

Azle
Steven Austin Mobley – Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice

Bangs
Bertha Mireya Mendoza – Bachelor of Arts in Spanish (all-level: early childhood – grade 12), Summa Cum Laude
Benjamin Ray Purcell – Bachelor of Science in mathematics
Joshua Lee Simons – Bachelor of Science in criminal justice

Boylston, Mass.
Catherine MacDonald Mullaney – Bachelor of Arts in the Academy of Freedom and English, Summa Cum Laude

Bozeman, Mont.
Catherine Joan Smith – Bachelor of Arts in English language arts and reading (high school: grade 8-12)

Brownwood
Juanita Mercedes Cardenas – Bachelor of Science in biology, Summa Cum Laude
Amber Diane Corley – Bachelor of Arts in Spanish (all-level: early childhood – grade 12), Cum Laude
Lacey Jay Crouch – Bachelor of Science in psychology (family psychology)
Shylah Marie Cutbirth – Bachelor of Science in elementary education (early childhood – grade 6)
Ennis “EJ” Davila – Bachelor of Arts in psychology (psychology and ministry), Summa Cum Laude
Bradi Nicole Gill – Bachelor of Science in psychology (general psychology)
Julie Marie Gomez – Master of Business Administration in business administration
Andrew Taylor Harding – Bachelor of Science in biology
Daniel Aaron Harmon – Bachelor of Science in psychology (general psychology), Cum Laude
Zachary Edward Herman – Bachelor of Science in business administration
Whitney Michelle Hooper – Master of Business Administration in business administration
Tucker Anderson Hull – Bachelor of Arts in theatre
Jared Briant Huntley – Bachelor of Arts in Bible, Magna Cum Laude
Tyler Ross January – Bachelor of Music in music – performance (voice concentration)
Taylor Brooke Jordan – Bachelor of Science in criminal justice and psychology (general psychology), Cum Laude
Julie RayAnn Kennedy – Bachelor of Science in psychology (family psychology)
Andrea Lashaye Leonard – Bachelor of Science in elementary education (early childhood – grade 6)
Kimberley Kay Lilley – Bachelor of Arts in youth ministry
Jarrod Scott McCandless – Bachelor of Science in computer information systems (multimedia), Summa Cum Laude
Sean Peter McMahan – Bachelor of Science in computer information systems (systems development)
Kelley Raye Miller – Master of Business Administration in business administration
Benjamin David Palmer – Bachelor of Arts in youth ministry
Cameron Derrick Polaski – Bachelor of Arts in communication (public and media)
Sam S. Powers – Bachelor of Arts in Christian education
Jessica Marie Powers – Bachelor of Science in elementary education (early childhood – grade 6)
Linda Irene Ruiz – Bachelor of Arts in English
Phoenix Antonia Solis – Bachelor of Arts in theatre arts (all-level certification: early childhood – grade 12)
David Albert Stippick – Bachelor of Arts in Bible
Travis N. Taillet – Bachelor of Science in business administration
Melani Dawn Terrill – Master of Education in instructional leadership
Zachary James Tharp – Bachelor of Arts in youth ministry
William Otis Thomas – Bachelor of Science in business administration
Jarrod Smith Tipton – Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice and psychology (general psychology)
Brennan Lee Turner – Bachelor of Science in computer information systems (systems development)
Tommy Valencia III – Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice

Burleson
Adrienne Elise Walker – Bachelor of Science in exercise and sport science (coaching)

Canyon Lake
Stephan Andrew Ellery – Master of Business Administration in business administration

Carrollton
Corissa Lynn Brown – Bachelor of Arts in elementary education (early childhood – grade 6), Summa Cum Laude
Erik Bryan Swenson – Bachelor of Arts in the Academy of Freedom, history and political science, Magna Cum Laude

Cedar Hill
Dylan James Hernandez – Bachelor of Arts in history

Chaparral, N.M.
Shannon Angelika Kerr – Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Christian studies (composite concentration)

Cisco
Britani Leigh Gattis – Bachelor of Science in biology

Comanche
Lila Delaine Mobley – Master of Education in instructional leadership
Zachary Lynn Varner – Master of Business Administration in business administration
Jared Houston Weaver – Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing

Corpus Christi
Timothy Devon Hardy – Bachelor of Arts in the Academy of Freedom and political science (international studies), Summa Cum Laude

Dallas
Shardena N. Hudson – Bachelor of Science in computer information systems (multimedia), Cum Laude

Early
Mitchell Martin Bailey – Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in criminal justice
Casey Lynn Coffee – Bachelor of Science in elementary education (early childhood – grade 6)
Timber Lee Curtis – Master of Business Administration in business administration
Rita Pearl Griffin – Master of Business Administration in business administration
Mark Alan Parker – Bachelor of Science in technology applications (high school: grade 8-12), Magna Cum Laude
Ricky Ryan Ray – Bachelor of Arts in communication (public and media)

El Paso
Martha Alicia Barranco – Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in business administration, Cum Laude
Marisol Esparza – Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in criminal justice
Angel Antonio Garcia – Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Christian studies (composite concentration)
Daena Giner – Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in business administration
Bernadine Green – Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Christian studies (practical theology concentration)
Ireri Raquel Gutierrez – Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in business administration
Michelle Amber Hernandez – Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in business management
Mitsy C. Stowers – Bachelor of Arts in Spanish

Farmington, N.M.
Kendyl Ann Moore – Bachelor of Business Administration in the Academy of Freedom and marketing

Florence
Daniel William Taylor – Bachelor of Science in criminal justice and psychology (general psychology), Summa Cum Laude

Flower Mound
Hannah Marie Hicks – Bachelor of Science in exercise and sport science (physical trainer), Magna Cum Laude

Fort Worth
Joshua Jay Kennedy – Bachelor of Science in chemistry (biochemistry concentration)
Whitney Elisabeth Presbaugh – Bachelor of Arts in psychology (family psychology), Cum Laude

Gatesville
Mason Riley Thornton – Bachelor of Arts in psychology (general psychology)

Georgetown
Brittany Rachelle Bailey – Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing, Magna Cum Laude
Lindsey Elise Jones – Bachelor of Arts in English, Cum Laude

Gilmer
Melanie Paige Robison – Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing

Goldthwaite
Jonathan Lewis Grady – Bachelor of Science in computer information systems (systems development)
William Hays Massey – Bachelor of Music in music – instrumental (all-level certification)
Tyson Ward Swanner – Bachelor of Science in exercise and sport science (physical education)

Graham
Skyler James Turpin – Bachelor of Business Administration in management

Granbury
Lawrence Ross Whittet – Bachelor of Business Administration in management (marketing emphasis)

Houston
Kerrie Diane Ford – Bachelor of Arts in the Academy of Freedom and political science (international studies), Summa Cum Laude

Howe
Taylor Grace Cook – Bachelor of Science in biology, Magna Cum Laude

Johnson City
John Dillon Goodwin – Master of Business Administration in business administration

Kempner
Caitlin Erin McGath – Bachelor of Science in elementary education (early childhood – grade 6)

Killeen
Judi Jo Parten – Bachelor of Music in music – performance (voice concentration)

La Grange
Valerie Hanna Marrs – Bachelor of Science in biology, Summa Cum Laude

Lampasas
Sarah Katherine Bishop – Bachelor of Science in exercise and sport science – physical education
Lillie Claire Davis – Bachelor of Arts in cross-cultural studies

Laurel, Miss.
Tyler Wayne Matthews – Bachelor of Music in music – instrumental (all-level certification)

Mason
Virginia Ann Lemke – Master of Business Administration in business administration

McAllen
Henry Rene Valladares – Master of Business Administration in business administration

McKinney
Hadley Foster III – Master of Arts in youth ministry
Christopher Matthew Stephens – Master of Arts in youth ministry

Mesquite
Ryan Taylor Young – Bachelor of Arts in political science (pre-law)

Midland
Nellie Beau Brieann Clevenger – Bachelor of Science in interdisciplinary studies, Summa Cum Laude

Montgomery
Courtney Reagan Lamberth – Bachelor of Science in communication (public and media)

New Braunfels
Brittney Sharene Overstreet – Master of Business Administration in business administration
Kimberly Danette Stevens – Master of Business Administration in business administration
Frank Ferren Wall – Master of Business Administration in business administration

Odessa
Katie Dawn Murphy – Bachelor of Arts in studio art, Summa Cum Laude

Ovilla
Rebecca Anne Lamar – Bachelor of Science in elementary education (early childhood – grade 6), Cum Laude

Paradise
Mac Eric Villanueba – Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice
Ashley Ann Wellborn – Bachelor of Science in biology, Cum Laude

Pasadena
Allison Paige Morrison – Bachelor of Arts in communication (public and media), Cum Laude
Evangelina Marie Tellez – Bachelor of Science in exercise and sport science (physical education)

Plainview
Jonathan Rick Henderson – Bachelor of Arts in Christian education, Summa Cum Laude

Pleasanton
Erica Renae Lopez – Bachelor of Science in exercise and sport science (exercise and sport management)

Port Aransas
Shannon Freeman Bundy – Bachelor of Arts in social work

Portland
Alyssa Lynn Castle – Bachelor of Science in mathematics

Princeton
Katherine Belle Carl – Bachelor of Arts in elementary education (early childhood – grade 6), Magna Cum Laude

Red Oak
Collin Gregory Bishop – Bachelor of Arts in Christian education

Rockwall
Blaine Michael Wynn – Bachelor of Science in criminal justice, Cum Laude

Rosenberg
Amber Tabrisha Ren Jones – Bachelor of Science in athletic training

Round Rock
Heather Renee Clayton – Bachelor of Arts in social work
Kyle Edward Kulczyk – Bachelor of Science in business administration

Rowena
Christopher Gene Power – Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in general studies

Rowlett
Katherine Elaine Dobson – Bachelor of Arts in theatre arts (all-level certification: early childhood – grade 12), Magna Cum Laude

Sachse
Emily Marie Bird – Bachelor of Science in life science (high school: grade 8-12), Magna Cum Laude

Salado
Jessica Lorraine Ferrell-Raborn – Bachelor of Arts in social work

San Angelo
Jaime Velez Beltran – Master of Arts in youth ministry
Sarah Amanda Yeats – Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Christian studies (practical theology concentration)

San Antonio
Julia Mari Rodriguez – Bachelor of Science in biology

Santa Anna
Jordan Ashleigh Jewell – Bachelor of Science in business administration

Savoy
Ryan Shane Klose – Bachelor of Science in biology

Springtown
Mallory Laurette Orms – Bachelor of Science in exercise and sport science (coaching), Magna Cum Laude

Stanton
Julia Kristin Schuelke – Bachelor of Science in psychology (general psychology)

Stephenville
Garrett Lee Sadler – Bachelor of Arts in practical theology

Terrell
Haley Clair Jones – Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing, Cum Laude

Tolar
McKinley Gayle Meyer – Bachelor of Science in computer information systems (multimedia)

Uvalde
Timothy Paul Marlin – Bachelor of Science in mathematics

Venus
Sarah Delyn Belser – Bachelor of Science in elementary education (early childhood – grade 6), Magna Cum Laude

Waco
Julie Mae Pyle – Master of Education in instructional leadership

Whitehouse
Gary Cayden McDonald – Bachelor of Science in the Academy of Freedom and political science (pre-law), Magna Cum Laude

Whitesboro
Katelyn Marie Wood – Bachelor of Science in business administration

Wylie
Wesley Dale Livingston – Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in criminal justice

Yantis
Eric William Young – Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in criminal justice

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HPU honors students at Academic Awards Convocation

BROWNWOOD – June 6, 2014 – Howard Payne University recently honored 71 students for academic achievements during the spring 2014 semester. The honors were conferred at the annual Academic Awards Convocation ceremony held on HPU’s campus.

Receiving awards were:

Anson
Allen Andrus, Outstanding New All-Level Teacher award

Bangs
Leah’Shae Gibson, Outstanding Student in Engineering Science award
Jessica Ramirez, Outstanding Social Studies Composite Student award

Ben Wheeler
Jarrod White, Outstanding Achievement in Theatre award

Bertram
Conner Fisher, Outstanding Upper Division Student in Biology award

Big Lake
Samantha Guerrero, Academic Achievement in English award

Boylston, Mass.
Catherine “Katie” Mullaney, Othal Brand Award for Outstanding Civic Leadership, the Outstanding Student Speaker Bureau Member award and the Academic Achievement in English award

Brady
Janis Groves, Outstanding Upper-Division Student in Communication Studies award

Brookeland
Kellie Warner, Outstanding Yellow Jacket Newspaper Staff Member award

Brownwood
Melissa Bernal, Outstanding Upper-Division Student in Spanish award
Chasity Cartwright, Academic Achievement in English award
Amber Corley, Education Deans of Independent Colleges and Universities Preservice Educator of the Year award
Sarah Crager, Outstanding Upper-Division Music Major award
Ennis (EJ) Davila, Outstanding Student in Biblical Languages award and the Honor Award in Psychology
Justin Fisher, Outstanding Upper-Division Student in Chemistry award
Stephanie Gutierrez, Outstanding Nontraditional Student award
Jared Huntley, Outstanding Student in Bible award
Benjamin Palmer, Outstanding Student Speaker Bureau Member award
Laura Salazar, Outstanding Nursing Student award
Zachary Tharp, Outstanding Student in Youth Ministry award

Carrollton
Erik Swenson, Outstanding History Student award

Chaparral, N.M.
Shannon Kerr, Outstanding Student in Christian Studies Composite award

Comanche
Nathan Byrd, Outstanding Upper-Division Student in Chemistry award
James Smith, Outstanding Mathematics Major award

Early
Colby Compton, Outstanding Freshman in Art award
Ryan Contreras, Outstanding Lower-Division Music Major award
Abraham Cooper, Outstanding Student in Physics award
Kevin Holamon, Outstanding Political Science Student and Nontraditional Student awards
Kevin E. Kirk, Outstanding Student in MBA Research award
Mark A. Parker, Outstanding Student in Computer Information Systems award
Sydni Thompson, Outstanding Nursing Student award

Fayetteville, N.C.
Tracy Tucker, Outstanding Student in Christian Studies Bible Composite award

Florence
Daniel Taylor, Honor Award in Psychology

Flower Mound
Hannah Hicks, Outstanding Exercise and Sport Science Major award

Fort Hood
Samantha Coronado, Outstanding Yellow Jacket Newspaper Staff Member award

Fort Worth
Brandon Gould, Paul J. Cunningham Memorial award
Joshua Kennedy, Men’s Outstanding Scholar Athlete award, the Paul J. Cunningham Memorial award and the ASC Male Scholar-Athlete Medal of Honor award
Hannah Williamson, Outstanding Lower-Division Student in Spanish award

Fredericksburg
Asiyel Smith, Outstanding Freshman in Art award

Garland
Rachel Ellington, Outstanding Lower-Division Student in Spanish award

Georgetown
Brittany R. Bailey, Outstanding Student in Marketing award

Granbury
Lawrence R. Whittet, Outstanding Student in Management award

Grand Junction, Colo.
Elizabeth Rogers, Outstanding Moot Court Student award

Greenbrier, Ark.
Paul Warren, Outstanding Student in Cross-Cultural Studies award

Houston
Tonya Bloomer, Honor Award in Social Work
Kerrie Ford, Dallas B. Sherman Award for Outstanding Scholarship and the Outstanding Model United Nations Student award

Jacksboro
Chelsey Cathey, Outstanding Lower-Division Student in Chemistry award

Kennedale
Allison Mantell, Outstanding Student in Mathematics Education award

Killeen
Amanda Cruddas, Mattie Anderson Hale Scholarship in English, the Women’s Outstanding Scholar Athlete award and the Tami Pattillo Memorial award
Harley Fine, Outstanding Student in Forensic Science award

La Grange
Valerie Marrs, Outstanding Candidate for Graduation in Biology award

Lubbock
William Colton Curry, Outstanding Student in Practical Theology and Outstanding Academic Achievement in Christian Studies awards

Naples, Fla.
Robin Scofield, Outstanding Academic Achievement in Communication Studies award

Odessa
Katie Murphy, Outstanding Senior in Art award

Ovilla
Becky Lamar, Outstanding New Elementary Teacher award

Perryton
Keaton Fletcher, Outstanding Student in General Biology award

Plainview
Jonathan Rick Henderson, Outstanding Student in Christian Education award

Rockwall
Blaine Wynn, Honor Award in Criminal Justice

Rosenberg
Amber Jones, Outstanding Athletic Training Major award

Round Rock
Bryce McWhirter, Most Promising Newcomer in Theatre award

Rowlett
Katherine Dobson, Outstanding Achievement in Theatre award

Royse City
Hannah Strebeck, Outstanding Upper-Division Music Major award

Sachse
Emily Bird, Outstanding New Secondary Teacher award

San Angelo
Cara DeLoach, Mattie Anderson Hale Scholarship in English and the Glenn Hopp Outstanding Writer award

San Saba
Marshal McIntosh, Outstanding Lower-Division Student in Communication Studies award

Santo
Sarah Van Remmen, Outstanding Student in General Biology and Outstanding Lower-Division Student in Chemistry awards

Sierra Blanca
Rachel Moore, Highest GPA for the Department of Exercise and Sport Science award

Springtown
Mallory Orms, Outstanding Exercise and Sport Science Major, Women’s Outstanding Scholar Athlete and ASC Female Scholar-Athlete Medal of Honor awards

Uvalde
Timothy Marlin, Outstanding Graduating Senior in Mathematics award

Victoria
Neva M. Bowers, Outstanding Student in Entrepreneurship award

Zephyr
Lacy H. Culpepper, Outstanding Student in Finance and Outstanding Student in the School of Business awards

Students from HPU’s Pre-College Music program earn honors at state music competition

BROWNWOOD – June 5, 2014 – Fifty students from HPU’s Pre-College Music program participated in the District 4A Junior Festival, held on the HPU campus in March. Forty-eight students earned a “Superior” rating, making them eligible to compete in the Texas Federation of Music Clubs State Competition. Of these students, 22 entered the TFMC State Competition, with many taking high honors. The competition was held May 17 at Texas State University in San Marcos.

Listed below are the participants and their ratings:

Vocal Solo
Outstanding: Angie Calfa, Dallas Johnston, Laurel Edmondson, Mary McIver, Sarah Reeves and Jordan Roberts

Vocal Duet
Outstanding: Laurel Edmondson and Dallas Johnston

Piano Solo
Outstanding: James Bautista, Andrew Boren, Dakota Busby, Abe Cooper, Vic Cooper, Christian Fijer, Addison Miller, Michael Morales, Hannah Parson, Sarah Reeves, Natalee Rose and Trina Wheeless

Superior: Kamry Keese and Jordan Roberts

Excellent: Skyler Moore

HPU’s Pre-College Music and Art program, directed by Diane Owens, is part of the university’s School of Music and Fine Arts. The program offers Kindermusik classes to pre-school children, and lessons in art, musical instruments and voice to school-aged children and adults. This past year, 15 teachers, consisting of HPU music and art faculty, students and local teachers, taught more than 100 students who were enrolled in the program.

Enrollment for the Pre-College Music and Art program’s fall semester will begin August 11 and will continue until August 29. Classes begin on September 1, and each semester is 14 weeks in length.
For more information about the Pre-College Music and Art program at HPU, contact Diane Owens at 325-649-850l or dowens@hputx.edu or Jill Holamon, administrative assistant for the School of Music and Fine Arts, at 325-649-8500 or jholamon@hputx.edu.

The Texas Federation of Music Clubs operates in conjunction with the National Federation of Music Clubs. The NFMC is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to music education and the promotion of creative and performing arts in America. Since its founding in 1898, the NFMC has grown into one of the world’s largest music organizations with club and individual members of all ages. The NFMC is chartered by the Congress of The United States and is the only music organization member of the United Nations. Dedicated to finding and fostering young musical talent, the NFMC conducts annual Junior Festivals with more than 117,000 participants. The NFMC offers more than three quarters of a million dollars in awards through state and national competitions. Federation members work to create a dynamic musical and cultural environment in their communities through education and sponsorship of musical events.

HPU education professor publishes children’s book

BROWNWOOD – June 5, 2014 – Dr. Daresa Voss, professor of education at Howard Payne University, never really intended to write a children’s book but, according to Voss, God had other plans. In response to the 2013 Moore, Okla., tornado, Dr. Voss penned “Gavriel and Giselle: Anilange,” a book dedicated to all disaster survivors.

“I remember watching the tornado coverage on TV and wondering, as a former kindergarten teacher, would I have been able to stay calm and keep my students calm,” she said.

The answer, as written on the back cover of her new book, is “a definite ‘yes,’ but only with God’s help.”

Dr. Voss was on a road trip a few weeks after the tornado when God revealed the story to her in a “colorful movie format.” In a hurry to capture the story, she began dictating the scenes on her iPhone. When she arrived home, it took a day to transcribe everything into text and several months to revise and refine.

The story is designed to bring comfort to children, parents, teachers and communities following any tragic event. Intended for second- and third-grade audiences, the book contains the appropriate vocabulary and literary devices. It is illustrated by Dr. Voss’ son, Ben Voss, a financial advisor with Edward Jones in Lubbock.

Dr. Voss has donated the book to many school districts, hoping it will be read in classrooms in towns that – like Moore and the fictional community in the book – have experienced disasters.

“This is God’s story and He wanted me to spread the word,” she said. “I’ve learned when God nudges you to do something, you obey.”

“Gavriel and Giselle: Anilange” is available for purchase at retailers including Barnes & Noble and Amazon. It may also be purchased through the publisher at www.westbowpress.com.

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Photo cutline: Dr. Daresa Voss, professor of education at HPU, holds a copy of her new book, “Gavriel and Giselle: Anilange.”