Monthly News Archives: March 2019

HPU’s School of Science and Mathematics hosts students from Goldthwaite’s Gifted and Talented STEM program

BROWNWOOD – March 21, 2019 – Students from Goldthwaite ISD’s Gifted and Talented (GT) Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program visited Howard Payne University’s Winebrenner Hall on in February. The students, ranging from first through eighth grade, had the opportunity to visit with HPU faculty members and students about the fields of chemistry, technology and engineering.

Dr. Hendra Tarigan, assistant professor of engineering science, and two engineering students met with the students about engineering.

“My two students asked the young students some questions,” he said. “One of them was ‘How many transistors are used in the latest version of a processor in a laptop?’ The young students knew the answer – billions. We were so happy to interact with the 20 young students. They have curious minds especially when it comes to STEM.”

Dr. Tarigan also mentioned another activity that was of particular interest.

“The two HPU engineering science students showed the GT students how a strain gauge can be utilized to determine the strain in a bending aluminum bar,” he said. “This, in turn, can determine the modulus of elasticity and Poisson’s ratio of such a metal.”

The students were also able to watch physical science demonstrations conducted by current and former students of Dr. Derek Smith, associate professor of chemistry.

“The GT students saw student-led demonstrations of extraction and analysis of flavor compounds from culantro, flame detection of metals and blood spatter analysis,” said Dr. Smith. “All the demonstrations were led by current students in chemistry or forensics classes at HPU.”

While on campus, the students also visited with Dr. Lester Towell, professor of computer information systems, about 3D printing.

“We talked about the future of technology and the need to incorporate new ideas and concepts into our daily lives,” he said. “The students were inquisitive and fearless, which are two of the primary requirements to excel in STEM.”

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Cutline: Students from Goldthwaite ISD’s GT STEM program talked with Dr. Lester Towell about 3D printing technology.

HPU’s grounds crew assists City of Brownwood with garden bed project

BROWNWOOD – March 20, 2019 – Howard Payne University’s grounds crew recently helped the City of Brownwood and Keep Brownwood Beautiful with local efforts to clear garden beds at the traffic T near Highway 84 and Highway 377.

The project, which was overseen by Jon Ochoa, Brownwood’s city supervisor, involved removing some of the aging planting materials from the garden area.

“With the older plants gone, the city and Keep Brownwood Beautiful can go back in with new plants,” said Terry Pritchett, HPU’s assistant vice president for facilities and planning. “Our portion was to help them remove much of the old plants – grasses and roses mainly.”

Workers from the City of Brownwood were present for the project and HPU’s grounds crew worked to support their efforts.

“It is always a pleasure helping our City of Brownwood friends as they continuously improve their bedding areas,” said Pritchett. “We have developed a great relationship together and look forward to future collaborations.”

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Cutline: HPU’s grounds crew works alongside City of Brownwood employees to clear garden beds at the traffic T near Highway 84 and Highway 377.

HPU’s Walker Memorial Library to host annual book sale

BROWNWOOD – March 19, 2019 – Howard Payne University’s Walker Memorial Library will host its annual book sale Friday, March 22, through Saturday, March 23. The sale will be open to the public from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Friday and 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday and will be hosted by the Friends of the Library group.

A large selection of books, including duplicate titles and books the library does not traditionally carry in the academic collection, will be available for purchase. The sale will also include a large selection of children’s books. Both paperbacks and hardcover books will be on sale for $1.00 with special items varying in price. All proceeds from the sale will help fund library improvements.

“This year we will have a wide variety of fiction, nonfiction and children’s materials,” said Deborah Dill, director of libraries and assistant professor of library science. “We received a few substantial book donations, so there will be lots of new items. We will also have copies of HPU annuals from years past.”

With proceeds from last year’s book sale, sponsored by the Friends of the Library, HPU was able to purchase two big glass marker boards for use in the library’s multipurpose room as well as a number of lamps with power outlets and USB charging ports for the multipurpose room and the reference room.

“The Friends of Walker Memorial Library is an inclusive group,” said Dill. “Students who spend time at the library working on assignments, faculty and staff who stop by to chat and check out books, alumni who make financial contributions to the library, Brownwood community members who bring in a box of books to donate and stay to view our displays – all of these are Friends to us and we are blessed to have so many.”

The Walker Memorial Library is located on Fisk Street on the HPU campus. For more information, call 325-649-8602 or send an e-mail to library@hputx.edu.

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Cutline: HPU’s Walker Memorial Library will host its annual book sale 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Friday, March 22, and 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 23.

Dr. Cory Hines named Howard Payne University’s 20th president

BROWNWOOD – March 18, 2019 – Howard Payne University has named Dr. Cory Hines as the institution’s next president, the 20th in HPU’s 130-year history. The announcement was made following a special called meeting of HPU’s Board of Trustees on Monday, at which the board voted unanimously in favor of Dr. Hines’ appointment. He will begin work at HPU on April 1.

A 1997 graduate of HPU, Dr. Hines has a broad range of experience in higher education administration. Before moving to his current post as vice president of enrollment at Dallas Baptist University, he served that institution in other capacities as vice president in the areas of advancement, graduate affairs, external affairs, and alumni and community relations. He has taught at DBU and provided leadership in the creation of several graduate programs there. Active in Baptist life, he also has experience in the ministry, having served as executive pastor and student pastor at Ferris Avenue Baptist Church (now The Avenue Church) in Waxahachie.

He earned the Bachelor of Arts degree in religious education from HPU, followed by the Master of Arts degree in Christian education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2000 and the Doctor of Philosophy degree in leadership studies – higher education from Dallas Baptist University in 2012.

“Dr. Hines’ combination of education and experience makes him a perfect fit for Howard Payne University,” said Pastor Ray Still, chair of HPU’s Board of Trustees. “As our institution continues to seek to glorify God and prepare our students to fulfill His calling on their lives, Dr. Hines will provide the kind of leadership needed for the next stage in HPU’s long, distinguished history.”

Dr. Hines and his wife, Melinda, have two children, Mackenzie and Caleb. The family currently resides in Waxahachie and will relocate to Brownwood. Dr. Hines expressed his eagerness to renew his relationship with HPU and the Brownwood area.

“Howard Payne University had a life-changing impact on me as a student, and I’m honored to have been chosen to lead my alma mater as president,” he said. “My family and I are eager to come back home to Brownwood and plant our lives here.”

Monday’s announcement is the culmination of a process that began in the summer of 2018, following the retirement of Dr. Bill Ellis as president and his transition to the role of chancellor. To assist HPU’s search committee, the university enlisted the executive search firm of CarterBaldwin of Atlanta.

“The search process yielded a wide range of applicants from across the U.S.,” said Dr. David Lowrie, chair of the search committee, member of HPU’s Board of Trustees and senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Decatur. “We are grateful to our associates at CarterBaldwin for their help in securing such an impressive pool of candidates, and we are thankful to God for His leadership through this entire journey. We couldn’t be happier with the outcome.”

In addition to Dr. Lowrie, committee members from the Board of Trustees were Ronnie D. Andrews, HPU alumnus and business executive from Houston; Marc Dingler, HPU alumnus and attorney from Midland; Carter M. Sharpe, insurance executive from Brownwood; Jonathan “Jonny” Snow, HPU alumnus and executive recruiter from Waxahachie; and Lesley Collier Wyse, HPU alumna and retired educator from Boerne. Representing HPU employees on the committee were Dr. Kylah Clark-Goff, dean of the School of Education and professor of education; Lynn Humeniuk, director of the criminal justice program and associate professor of criminal justice and sociology; and Hunter Sims, athletic director.

“The members of the search committee devoted many hours and countless prayers to this process,” said Pastor Still. “Their diligence is a testament to their commitment to our university and the monumental importance of their task.”

Dr. Paul W. Armes, longtime educator, administrator and minister, has served as HPU’s interim president since June 1. His service to HPU will end on March 31.

“Howard Payne University has great days ahead,” Dr. Armes said. “Dr. Cory Hines is already part of the university family and brings a proven track record of excellence and effectiveness in the field of faith-based higher education. We are at a very exciting moment of HPU’s history. Surely God’s hand of blessing is on this university.”

Pastor Still expressed his thanks to Dr. Armes for his service to HPU.

“On behalf of the entire HPU family, I offer my gratitude to Dr. Armes for his willingness to step into this role and serve our university with characteristic warmth, wisdom and grace,” Pastor Still said. “As he returns to retirement, he takes with him our best wishes and lasting appreciation.”

More information about Dr. Hines will follow in the weeks ahead. For more details about HPU, please visit www.hputx.edu.

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Photo #1 cutline: Dr. Cory Hines speaks to an assembly of HPU students, faculty and staff shortly after his appointment as the university’s 20th president.

Photo #2 cutline: Dr. Cory Hines is pictured with his wife, Melinda, and children, Mackenzie (far left) and Caleb (far right).

HPU provost Dr. W. Mark Tew departs for president role at Judson College

BROWNWOOD – March 8, 2019 – Dr. W. Mark Tew, Howard Payne University’s provost and chief academic officer, has been named the 23rd president of Judson College in Marion, Alabama. He will assume the post on March 25.

Dr. Tew, who joined HPU’s administration as vice president for academic affairs in September 2007, is a native of Alabama and previously served at Judson College in a variety of administrative and academic capacities including senior vice president, vice president for institutional advancement, chief financial officer and professor of religious studies.

During his years at HPU, Dr. Tew has provided key leadership in a variety of initiatives, such as the creation and development of a range of degree programs and the university’s Strategic Plan.

“I consider it a great honor to have served Howard Payne University during these years,” said Dr. Tew. “My pride in what we as an academic community have accomplished is matched only by my confidence of the great things yet to come.”

A graduate of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary with Doctor of Theology and Master of Divinity degrees, he also holds the Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Science degrees from Samford University.

“Dr. Tew is a distinguished academic administrator who has served Howard Payne University with professionalism and grace,” said Dr. Paul W. Armes, interim president. “His unwavering commitment to HPU’s mission as a distinctively Christ-centered academic community has been a blessing to our institution.”

Dr. Celeste Church, assistant vice president for retention, research and accreditation, will serve as acting provost effective March 18. Dr. Church joined HPU’s music faculty in 2004 and progressed through the ranks from instructor to full professor. She has also served as chair of the Faculty Assembly, co-chair of the General Education Review Committee and dean of institutional research and effectiveness.

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Photo cutline: HPU’s Dr. W. Mark Tew has been named president of Judson College.

HPU to close for Spring Break

BROWNWOOD – March 7, 2019 – Howard Payne University will be closed for Spring Break next week, March 11-15. No classes will be held and administrative offices will be closed.

The university will reopen and classes will resume at 8 a.m. on Monday, March 18.

HPU graduates 94 at close of fall 2018 semester

BROWNWOOD – March 4, 2019 – Howard Payne University graduated 94 students during its Commencement ceremony held at the close of the fall 2018 semester.

Dr. Paul Armes, HPU interim president, and other university representatives conferred the degrees.

The list below includes December and August graduates. 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
Sarah Elizabeth Carey, Bachelor of Science in general psychology

Alvarado
Audrey Mae Kirkland, Bachelor of Arts in general psychology

Amherst
Shawnece Vandela Wormly, Bachelor of Science in athletic training

Arlington
Tayler Brittany Rushing, Master of Business Administration

Athens
Jeffrey Ryan Quattlebaum, Master of Arts in theology and ministry

Auburn, Washington
Blake A. Null, Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice

Austin
Dominique Marie Featherstone, Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in general studies
Marissa Cheyenne Godbey, Bachelor of Music in music education (choral – all-level certification), Cum Laude

Bangs
Frank L. Westover, Master of Science in criminal justice

Brownwood
Emile Georges Accaoui, Bachelor of Arts in social science (American political studies)
Ryan A. Adams, Bachelor of Science in computer information systems (multimedia)
Travis Toby Adams, Bachelor of Science in studio art
Titus J. Brown, Bachelor of Business Administration in management
Melodee Lynne Carrier, Bachelor of Arts in youth ministry
Briana Dawn Coody, Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in general studies
Tanner Wayne Donathan, Bachelor of Arts in communications (public and media)
Chanse Ray Frenette, Master of Business Administration
Crystal Aliyah Hernandez, Bachelor of Arts in social work
Kimberlyn Elaine Ho, Bachelor of Science in elementary education (early childhood – grade 6), Cum Laude
Jessica Carol Huckaby, Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in criminal justice (restorative justice)
Justin Alan Lawson, Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in criminal justice
Jensen Lee Limer, Bachelor of Science in criminal justice, Cum Laude
Cheyanne Denise Miller Lovelady, Bachelor of Science in exercise and sport science (personal trainer)
Cassia Noelle Rose, Bachelor of Arts in theatre, Summa Cum Laude
Gip Alan Sills, Bachelor of Science in athletic training
Danny Kyle Steele, Bachelor of Science in criminal justice
Clara Octani Tarigan, Bachelor of Science in engineering science
Stephanie Michelle Thompson, Bachelor of Science in kinesiology (general)
Keegan Ryan Torres, Bachelor of Business Administration in management, Cum Laude
Daniel Maurice Weatherly, Bachelor of Science in business administration
Andres Jose Zambrano, Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice

Cedar Park
Tracer J. Moore, Bachelor of Science in exercise and sport science (general)

Comanche
Micah Jo Taylor, Master of Business Administration

Crockett
Dillon Layne McDugle, Master of Education in instructional leadership

Cross Plains
Morgan Hayley Megarity, Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing

Early
Terrell Veron St. Julian, Bachelor of Science in computer information systems (multimedia)
Austin Caleb Throckmorton, Bachelor of Business Administration in management, Summa Cum Laude
Jason Ryan Washburn, Bachelor of Arts in history and Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting

El Paso
Jesus Arturo Barraza, Master of Business Administration
Janet Nicole Carrillo, Master of Education in instructional leadership
Roberto Elizalde, Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Christian studies (composite concentration), Summa Cum Laude
Fernando Louis Fernandez, Associate in Ministry
Kacie Lynn Greseth, Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Christian studies (composite concentration)
Steven Cathcart Lewis, Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Christian studies (composite concentration)
Priscilla Marie Macias, Master of Business Administration

Eldorado
Anna Kaye McBride, Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Christian studies (composite concentration), Magna Cum Laude

Farmington, New Mexico
Crisharo Rayne Begay, Bachelor of Arts in youth ministry

Fort Morgan, Colorado
Nicole Ann Karas, Master of Business Administration

Fort Worth
Justin Michael Harris, Bachelor of Arts in social science (jurisprudence)
Benjamin Buchanan Lewis, Bachelor of Science in kinesiology (personal trainer)

Frisco
Charles Christopher Whitson, Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Christian studies (composite concentration)

Gatesville
Augusta Marie Johnson, Bachelor of Arts in history, Honors Academy and social science (global studies), Magna Cum Laude

Godley
Breanna Danielle Hunt, Bachelor of Science in mathematics (high school: grades 7-12)

Granbury
Katelyn Leigh O’Conner, Bachelor of Arts in family studies, Magna Cum Laude

Grandview
Bailey Brian Smith, Master of Business Administration

Greenville
Anna Lauren Jeffers, Master of Arts in theology and ministry

Humble
Hunter Gordon Bazan, Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in business administration

Jarrell
Anissa Joyce Peralta, Bachelor of Science in elementary education (early childhood – grade 6)

Katy
Tobias Ty Turney, Master of Arts in theology and ministry

Keller
Tyla Joyce Tipton, Bachelor of Science in exercise and sport science (general)

Kerrville
Catrina Leigh Hooten, Bachelor of Science in elementary education (early childhood – grade 6)

Killeen
Kaytlin Dianne Hunkins, Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting
Tyler Lee James, Bachelor of Science in kinesiology (all-level certification)

Kyle
Stephen Kyle Wright, Bachelor of Science in business administration

Liberty Hill
Chesney Beth Goza, Bachelor of Science in general psychology

May
Allison S. Williams, Master of Education in instructional leadership

McAllen
Emily Annette Villarreal, Bachelor of Science in elementary education (early childhood – grade 6)

McKinney
Tara Brooke Carroll, Bachelor of Arts in cross-cultural studies

Mexia
Stephen Featherston, Bachelor of Science in communications (public and media)

Monahans
Garrett Ford, Bachelor of Arts in cross-cultural studies, Magna Cum Laude

Natalia
Andrew William Overmiller, Bachelor of Arts in Christian education

New Braunfels
Jerome Agnew, Master of Business Administration
Patrick Scott Akers, Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in criminal justice
David Bradley Blevins, Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in criminal justice
Emily Elaine Dixon, Bachelor of Science in business administration, Summa Cum Laude
Audrie Nicole Drummond, Master of Business Administration
Kirstin Lorrel Henderson, Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in criminal justice
Olivia Ann Hetherington, Bachelor of Science in business administration
John Christian Hjort, Master of Business Administration
Travis Logan Kiers, Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Christian studies (composite concentration)
Jennifer J. Knighton, Master of Business Administration
Raul Medina, Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in business administration, Summa Cum Laude

Round Rock
Eugene Justin Barrera, Bachelor of Science in exercise and sport science (personal trainer)
Stacy Rachaun Beattie-Anderson, Bachelor of Arts in English language arts and reading (high school: grades 8 -12)

Runaway Bay
Taylor Madison Edwards, Bachelor of Arts in social studies composite (high school: grades 7-12)

San Angelo
Adriana Alexandra Mata, Bachelor of Science in elementary education (early childhood – grade 6)
Marshall Ray Simpson, Master of Arts in youth ministry

San Antonio
Andria Garza, Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in criminal justice
Cody Tyler Hastings, Bachelor of Science in kinesiology (general)

San Marcos
Joseph Zenus Torres, Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in business administration

San Saba
Jacey MaKenna Martinez, Bachelor of Arts in social work

Stephenville
Shadd C. Cole, Bachelor of Science in exercise and sport science (personal trainer)

Tolar
Holly Ann Leatherman, Bachelor of Arts in mathematics (high school: grades 7-12)

Tomball
Kayla Kenzie Boucher, Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing, Cum Laude