On Sept. 3, 1928, Boiling Springs Junior College opened for its first session. Prior to this time, it existed only as a high school. Rev. James Blaine Davis, a graduate of Mars Hill College, Wake Forest College, the University of North Carolina and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, had been elected as President. Davis came to Boiling Springs College from a pastorate at the Henderson Street Baptist Church in Cleveland, Texas. Some years earlier (1918-1919) he had served as an instructor at North Carolina State College; for four years (1919-1923) he was an instructor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

At the annual meeting of the Kings Mountain Baptist Association in October 1928, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees referred to President Davis as 鈥渁 young man with striking personality, a profound scholar, an exponent of Christian education; we believe we have in Dr. Davis a President worthy of the highest esteem of our people and whom we shall be glad to follow. Under his able leadership and by the cooperation of his true and tried co-workers, we believe Boiling Springs Junior College will have a great future.鈥�

Speaking at association meetings, addressing the student body, and in many other ways, Davis began identifying with the various constituencies of the school. At the Kings Mountain Baptist Associational Annual Meeting in 1929, he presented Professor J.D. Huggins as the Dean of the College. Before the messengers, these two men pledged each other their loyalty and cooperation in carrying forward the work of the institution. The recognition of Huggins, along with others who had been closely identified with the high school, had the effect of bridging the high school era with the college era during the transition period.

There were seven departments in the college: English, mathematics, natural science, foreign language, social science, Bible, and education. One of the requirements to receive the diploma Associate in Letters was to submit a thesis of not fewer than 2,500 words on a subject approved by the professor in whose department it was written.

During the tenure of Davis, the college continued to struggle financially. Another concern was the goal of becoming accredited by the N.C. Department of Public Instruction. Several needs had to be met. These included a new or remodeled building with modern classrooms and modern equipment, an adequate library facility, more endowment, and liquidation of existing debts. Davis resigned effective May 20, 1930.

Sources: Dedmon, 鈥淟engthened Shadows: A History of 猫咪头条 College;鈥� Hamrick, 鈥淏orn at the Crossroad;鈥� and Jolley, 鈥淒reaming, Daring, Doing…The Story of 猫咪头条 University.鈥� 鈥� Lansford Jolley

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Dr. Zeno Wall (1882-1967) was born in Mooresboro, N.C., and was pastor of the First Baptist Church in Shelby (1925-1948). He became the interim president of 猫咪头条 College on May 20, 1930, and served for two years. He served without any salary. The relationship between the college and the churches in the local Baptist associations established a portal for a series of pastors from the area to serve as president. 

Wall was one of the leaders who strongly supported the school becoming a junior college, being the one to present the resolution to the Kings Mountain Association to endorse and approve the proposed status change. He continued to voice his support of the college and to encourage the churches in the Association to support the school. 

In the spring of 1920, Wall preached his first sermon at Cliffside Baptist Church, Cliffside, N.C., where he was ordained into the ministry. In addition to serving as pastor and interim pastor of several churches, Wall served as President of the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina and as Superintendent of the Baptist Children鈥檚 Homes in Thomasville, N.C. He attended Mars Hill College and the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He received the Doctor of Divinity degree from Mississippi College in 1917. 

During Wall鈥檚 ministry at the First Baptist Church in Shelby, N.C., the membership grew from 600 to 2,600. He realized three noteworthy objectives: first, the erection and equipping of an adequate church building with 1,000 in Sunday School; second, a great revival led by Dr. George W. Truett during which 217 people joined the church; and third, four-year status for 猫咪头条 College (which the Board of Trustees requested of the N.C. Baptist State Convention the day Wall died). Wall鈥檚 influence extended beyond the denomination and community into the halls of government. He led the inaugural prayer for two North Carolina Governors, O. Max Gardner and Clyde 

R. Hoey, both from Shelby.鈥� Wall authored three books: 鈥淗eartening Messages,鈥� 鈥淰erities of the Gospel,鈥� and 鈥淎 Day for God-called Men.鈥� 

Along with other pastors who served the college during its difficult days, Wall played a significant role in keeping the school alive. He also served on many boards and committees for the college and on the Board of Trustees from 1928-1939 and from 1941-1946. 

This great Baptist leader, who found time to give strong support to the college in many capacities, deserves great respect for his work in God鈥檚 Kingdom through the church, the college, and in all areas of life. Many remember Wall鈥檚 famous greeting, 鈥淒early Beloved.鈥� He is remembered as one who was dearly beloved. 

Source: Hamrick, 鈥淭he History of the First Baptist Church鈥� 

鈥� Lansford and Cothenia Jolley, 1993 

Revised: Noel T. Manning II, May 2022 

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The Rev. James Lineberry Jenkins (1882-1973) was born in Stanly County, N.C., the son of Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Jenkins. After completing his elementary and high school  years in the Stanly County Schools, he enrolled in Wake Forest College, from which he received the Bachelor of Arts degree. He then entered the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky., where he received the Bachelor of Divinity degree. 

He married the former Miss Kate Watson, who died in 1946. They had four children: J.L. (Jay) Jenkins Jr.; Cathy (Mrs. Eugene) Vosecky; Neil (Mrs. Roy G.) Burris Jr.; and Betty (Mrs. Eugene) Washburn.  

During the early years of his ministry, Jenkins was pastor of Parkton Baptist Church, Lumber Bridge Baptist Church, Southport Baptist Church, all in North Carolina, and Umatilla Baptist Church in Florida. Returning to North Carolina from Florida, he was named the State Evangelist for The Baptist State Convention of North Carolina. 

In 1927, Jenkins was called as pastor of the Boiling Springs Baptist Church. He served for 25 years, retiring in 1952. During this period, he was also pastor for a time of both Mount Sinai Baptist Church and Zion Baptist Church of the Kings Mountain Baptist Association. 

While pastor of the local church, Jenkins was associated with the Boiling Springs college as well. Officially he served as chaplain, teacher and on two occasions as president, from 1932-1935 and between the presidencies of George Burnett and J.R. Cantrell. He was president of the school during the Great Depression of the early 1930s and served without a salary. At that time the college was short of funds, and there was not enough money to pay the faculty. Additionally, the physical plant was in need of many repairs, and the water system was inadequate. It was through the generosity of a Boiling Springs merchant that the college was able to continue to operate. Jenkins provided monumental leadership as a pastor, community leader, and president of the Institution. His commitment to the success of the college was paramount to preventing the closure of the School during a time of challenges.  

As a tribute to Jenkins, a special collection of books named the J.L. Jenkins Memorial Library for Rural Pastors was added to the John R. Dover Memorial Library on the campus. This collection of books was started by the spontaneous gift from a Washington, D.C., resident who was a student under Jenkins when he was the unpaid president of Boiling Springs College. 

As a pastor and teacher, Jenkins touched and blessed the lives of many faculty members and countless numbers of students. Especially close to him were the 鈥減reacher boys,鈥� many of whom he taught unforgettable lessons in homiletics and interpretation of the scriptures. There were several stories carried throughout the years about alumni from his classes who went into ministry and utilized his succinct and vivid sermon outline methods. Throughout the country there have been hundreds of pulpits occupied by those who learned the art of the pastorate from Jenkins. 

Woodrow Hill, a 猫咪头条 student in 1933, recalled how Jenkins would often come to the residence halls and talk with the 鈥減reacher boys.鈥� His home was always open to the many who came by to either chat with him or to get advice on some subject. Many evenings were spent with groups who came together for homiletical discussions. Hill commented, 鈥淢ost of these young men learned years later in seminary just how well Jenkins had prepared them for their courses of study and for their pulpit ministries.鈥� 

Jenkins also served as a faculty member at Fruitland Bible College, where he ministered to many young preachers who could not afford to go to college. Their education was limited or they were older when they received the calls to preach and did not have money to go to college. 

J.L. Jenkins Day was held at Boiling Springs Baptist Church on May 11, 1952, on his 25th anniversary as pastor. Jenkins was recognized for his many areas of service to the church, the college (university), the association, the convention, the state, and Fruitland College. 

The late Mrs. M. A. Jolley, a church historian, made the following comment, 鈥淲e recognize Brother Jenkins as an outstanding preacher and interpreter of the scripture. He is known and loved by the people of Boiling Springs and all over the state of North Carolina. His sermons have always been scriptural, true to life, and refreshing.鈥� An average of 50 people had been added, either by baptism or by letter, to the church each year during his pastorate. 

Since Boiling Springs Baptist Church once stood near where Dover Chapel now stands, many 猫咪头条 students participated in the life of the church.  

The Rev. Robert W. Abrams once made the following statement: 鈥溍ㄟ渫诽� College is pleased to salute and honor the memory of James Lineberry Jenkins for his sterling character, his exemplary conduct, his effective and influential ministry, and his service to God and mankind.鈥� 

Source: Rev. Robert W. Abrams, Tribute to Rev. John Jenkins; Hill, Looking to the Beginning; Biblical Recorder. 

鈥� Dorothy Hamrick Edwards 

鈥� Revised: Noel T. Manning II, May 2022 

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A.C. Lovelace (1898-1956) was born in Rutherford County, N.C. He was the son of Cicero Crawford and Mary Elizabeth Carolina Flack Lovelace. 

Lovelace attended school at Pleasant Hill and graduated from Round Hill Academy; he taught there briefly before going to Wake Forest College in 1912. He graduated Magna Cum Laude in 1916. While at Wake Forest, he was chairman of the Student Assistants (called scrub faculty) and served under the legendary Dr. Benjamin Sleed in the English department. Later he earned the Master of Education degree from Duke University. After graduation, he was invited by Dr. Enoch Walter Sikes, the newly elected president of Coker College, to go with him and teach English. 

After two years at Coker College, Lovelace resigned to enlist in the U.S. Army. On his way home, he stopped at Piedmont College in Georgia and proposed marriage to Maude Lee White, his childhood sweetheart. Following a wedding trip to Asheville, N.C., Lovelace went to the U.S. Army Training Center at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C., then on to Camp Zachary Taylor in Louisville, Ky., for Officers鈥� Training School. The World War I Armistice was signed on Nov. 11, 1918, and he returned home to his bride. 

Upon returning to North Carolina, a position of elementary school  principal was offered to him in Henrietta. He accepted and moved with his wife and first son, Austin Cole (born March 26, 1919). His second son, Marc Hoyle, was born June 5, 1920, while there.  

In 1922, Lovelace moved to Sylva, N.C., to serve as principal of the high school. Two years later, he returned to Rutherford County to serve as superintendent of Henrietta, Caroleen, and Avondale schools. In 1932, he became superintendent of the school at Mills Home (N.C. Baptist Home for Children in Thomasville), where he served until Dr. Zeno Wall and others visited him to urge him to accept the presidency of Boiling Springs Junior College, a position he held from 1935-1936. He had previously served on the Board of Trustees for the College (1932-1934). 

The college was struggling and resources were meager. Unfortunately, the Sandy Run and other Baptist Associations could not provide enough support for the school to operate. That was a turning point for the school and for Lovelace. He accepted the post, and the family moved to Forest City, where Marc finished high school. Lovelace and his son Austin, who was a college student, commuted each day to the college. Lovelace, along with the Rev. J.L. Jenkins and Dr. Zeno Wall, served as presidents at the college during its most critical financial days. All three gentlemen served without receiving any salary. 

Lovelace found it difficult to recruit students and faculty; he faced the reality that someone with powers of persuasion should be president. After his resignation, he moved to Gastonia. He served as Assistant Principal at Shelby High School and taught Algebra, Latin, and English. He also taught in high schools in Forest City, Kannapolis, Old Fort, and Lewisville. His two sons attended High Point College (University). 

His next move was to High Point College, where he became a professor of education. While living there, Mrs. Lovelace, their son Austin, and Marc鈥檚 future wife all graduated from High Point College the same year. Lovelace was also ordained as a minister during this time and did interim and supply work. 

The president of Wingate College, who was a friend to Lovelace, invited him to become the Dean of the Faculty and assist Wingate in achieving accreditation. His success motivated the president of Mt. Olive College, so he was invited to do the same service for them. It was shortly after going there that Lovelace died (Feb. 3, 1956) of a massive coronary; he was buried in the family plot in Rutherford County. 

In histories of Forsyth, Rutherford and other counties, tribute is paid to Lovelace for his leadership in furthering public education. North Carolina Baptists honored him for his leadership in the Sandy Run Association. His greatest pride was in his two sons and their accomplishments. Austin received his doctorate in sacred music from the Union Theological Seminary in New York City. Marc received his doctorate in archeology and the Ancient Near East from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky. 

Many of Lovelace鈥檚 Boiling Springs College students expressed their gratitude for his help in their completion of two years of college in spite of the challenging and disheartening financial problems during his tenure as president. 

Sources: Letters, telephone conversations, personal interviews with Dr. Marc Lovelace 

鈥� Cothenia Jolley 

-Revised by Noel T. Manning II, May 2022 

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George Jackson Burnett, born in December 1874 in Auburn, Ky., became the fifth president of the college, beginning with the 1936-1937 school year at a salary of $2,000. Burnett, based on previous experience, was one of the best-qualified persons to have been president of the college. He held the Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees from Bethel College in Tennessee. He served as the first president of Tennessee College for Women (1907-1923), president (1915-1917) of the Tennessee Baptist State Convention, vice president of the Southern Baptist Convention, and for three and a half years served as associate secretary of the Brotherhood of the Southern Baptist Convention. These experiences were the type which the trustees looked for, particularly his previous experience as a college president and his experience in working with the Southern Baptist Convention.

According to Burnett, if he could strengthen the churches, they would be in a position to put the college into their budgets, and the college鈥檚 needs would therefore be met. During the fall of 1936, Burnett conducted a stewardship revival and led the Boiling Springs Baptist Church to adopt a unified budget and worked with many other churches in the development of such a budget.

The president鈥檚 wife was very active as well. She served as coach for the debate and forensic teams and at one time served as president of the North Carolina Junior College Forensics Society. These teams, according to newspaper articles, performed extremely well in their competitions. Mrs. Burnett also directed several dramatic productions and sometimes spoke in chapel. President and Mrs. Burnett worked as a team. Financial problems and plans to become a member of the Southern Association of Colleges were still issues at that time.

One tragedy brought about many changes鈥攖he burning of the Memorial Building (now E.B. Hamrick Hall). This left only the Huggins-Curtis Building, the Barn (men鈥檚 residence hall), the gymnasium, and a home for the faculty. Adjustments had to be made quickly for classes and residence hall space. This situation brought a strong need for more buildings on campus, which led to the question of finances.

There was some disagreement between Burnett and the trustees regarding finances, and much of this was brought about by strain placed on both parties. Some of the financial problems centered on salaries. There was pressure from the president regarding professors鈥� salaries.

Burnett understood the needs of the school and had a vision for the institution. To meet the standards of accreditation, President Burnett stated, 鈥�…the right kind of students, the character of the education given them, the spiritual life of the students, and a positive contribution by the denomination to the school were necessary.鈥� He said, 鈥淲e must not give counterfeit education.鈥�

J.L. Lovelace of Boiling Springs was hired (July 4, 1938) without Burnett鈥檚 knowledge to assist the president in the financial areas. According to Burnett, the college could not afford to hire another person, so he resigned. The trustees did not accept his resignation. Later, however, Burnett resigned a second time to be effective on March 1, 1939; the trustees accepted the resignation this time.

Burnett said to the 猫咪头条 trustees, 鈥淚 have enjoyed the two and one-half years here, and I wish I were 20 years younger…There is a great opportunity for building a strong junior college in this county.鈥�

Several positive things were emphasized and/or accomplished in the Burnett era:

• The churches of the association had been strengthened by the introduction of the unified budget plan and, in turn, the college was strengthened.
• The president had kept before its supporters the goals and purpose of the school.

• Internal record-keeping of the college was improved.

• On Sept. 30, 1937, the Green River Baptist Association voted to join the Kings Mountain and Sandy Run Associations in support of the college.

An article in The Shelby Star stated, 鈥淒uring his two years as president, Burnett has worked faithfully and effectively in bringing the school to the forefront and making it a real educational force in the community.鈥�

After leaving Boiling Springs, Burnett went to Limestone College in Gaffney, S.C., as field representative in the public relations department.

Sources: The Shelby Star and other newspaper articles.

鈥� Cothenia and Lansford Jolley, 1994

• Revised Noel T. Manning II, May 2022

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John R. Cantrell (1888-1967), was the sixth president of 猫咪头条 College and served during its final years as it carried the name Boiling Springs Junior College.

He was born in State Line, S.C., in Cherokee County. In his mid-20s, 鈥淛.R.,鈥� as he was known, was called to the ministry, and having been licensed to preach in 1915, left the farming vocation to attend Boiling Springs High School (a Christian boarding high school at the time). This act of courage was further intensified by the fact that he brought his wife, Lettie Henderson Cantrell, and two children, Cleatus and John, with him; the family moved by wagon, aided by friends who rescued the sleeping infant Cleatus when the bumpy ride bounced him out of the wagon and onto the ground.

As a non-traditional student at Boiling Springs High School, Cantrell wore a path to the spot near the boiling springs, where he paused daily at a rock altar to ask God鈥檚 guidance in his life. In 1920 he again showed the courage and commitment characteristic of his life as he moved to Wake Forest College, followed by his wife, who had remained behind to gather cotton and to bring the profit from that cotton to help the family so that he could complete his education. Cantrell鈥檚 father, who had opposed his son鈥檚 leaving the farm to enter the ministry, helped his daughter-in-law make the move to Wake Forest; in so doing, he found an understanding of his son鈥檚 commitment to the ministry and a pride in his immense undertaking. He had reason to be proud; his son compiled an impressive academic record, exempting all final exams as was the custom for the best students in class at the time. Cantrell received his A.B. degree from Wake Forest in 1924.

His Wake Forest days began his long commitment to his calling as pastor; he served as student pastor of Hillsboro Baptist Church, where he remained as pastor until 1928. After several years as an evangelist for the N.C. Baptist Convention (1928-31), he returned to the ministry, first at Newton Baptist Church (1931-1937), then at Calvary Baptist in Morganton (1937-39).

It was in 1939, as the nation struggled with the aftermath of the depression while awaiting possible war in Europe, that Cantrell was asked to serve as president of Boiling Springs Junior College, his former high school, which was floundering to survive the momentous national crises of the time. Once more, he and his wife made the courageous decision to move with their children, John, Cleatus, Letha, and Grace, toward a goal, which seemed overwhelming. The goal was simple: keep Boiling Springs Junior College alive. To that end, Cantrell began a campaign of raising nickels and dimes, occasional dollars, and perhaps even a rare $5 gift. Each contribution was carefully recorded in his ledger, which he carried with him at all times, recording every act of generosity. In his white shirt, tie, and dress suit, he cut weeds, mowed grass, stacked rocks, preached at the daily chapels, solicited and collected contributions, and prayed.

When the N.C. State Convention considered closing the weakened institution, Cantrell asked that it be left open; he was given one more chance. His dedication led to the cleanup of the litter-ridden grounds surrounding the old burned Memorial Building. Under his leadership, the building was renovated and renamed the E.B. Hamrick Building. His interest in rock work made possible the native rock siding added to the old wooden gymnasium; it became commonly known as 鈥淭he Old Rock Gym.鈥� He and his wife opened their home to several boarding students who witnessed kindness and devotion in the Cantrell home as they studied academics at the college. In 1942, O. Max Gardner, former governor of North Carolina, decided to devote more of his time, energies, and financial resources to the little college which, as he said, refused to die. Cantrell and Gardner had visited each other numerous times. Gardner became committed to Boiling Springs Junior College. So deep was his commitment that the decision was made, as is now well-known, to rename the college 猫咪头条 Junior College. Thus under the leadership and dedication of Cantrell, the future of 猫咪头条 Junior College, later to be named 猫咪头条 College, now 猫咪头条 University, was assured. Never again would it come so close to death; never again would it lack for friends and financial support. When Cantrell resigned in April of 1943, there was a beautified campus, increased enrollment, and capable friends assuring its continued growth and prosperity.

Cantrell continued to serve in the ministry, serving as pastor of Poplar Springs Baptist Church (1941-1950) and Lattimore Baptist Church (1949-1961), both near his home. When he retired in 1961, he had served North Carolina Baptists for over 42 years. Though his tenure at 猫咪头条 was brief, his life and the continued vitality of 猫咪头条 University are interwoven forever.

Sources: Personal interview with Grace Cantrell Harmon, daughter; Cantrell, 鈥淎nnual of the Baptist State Convention,鈥� 1967; 猫咪头条 University archives

鈥� Joyce C. Brown

• Revised by Noel T. Manning II, May 2022

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Philip Lovin Elliott (1891-鈥�1961), English professor鈥� and college president,鈥� was born in Wayside, N.C., 鈥╥n a little hamlet nestled 鈥╝mong the hills and 鈥╲alleys of the Great Smoky鈥� Mountains. Despite the鈥� poverty of the region,鈥� Elliott was possessed 鈥╞y a consummate desire 鈥╢or education, and at the鈥� age of 18 he enrolled in a鈥� Presbyterian academy in鈥� Robbinsville, N.C., where鈥� he studied for three years.鈥� Ordained as a Baptist鈥� minister prior to his 鈥╣raduation from Mars鈥� Hill High School, 鈥‥lliott rode horseback to Flag Pond, Tenn., where 鈥╤e preached to a small mountain congregation. He enrolled at Wake Forest College in 1915 and earned a graduate degree in English literature and journalism. Elliott married Etta Maurine Carringer, of Robbinsville, N.C. in 1918, and they became the parents of three daughters and one son.

Elliott鈥檚 career in education began modestly. His first teaching position was in a one-room school in Proctor, N.C., a small sawmill village in the Great Smoky Mountains, now covered by Fontana Lake. From the Proctor subscription school, Elliott continued the slow, painstaking odyssey which ultimately brought him to prominence in Baptist educational circles. In 1919 he became principal of Mitchell Collegiate Institute in Bakersville, N.C., and in 1920 he became missionary pastor in Graham County, N.C. The following year the State Baptist Convention named him enlistment secretary for the whole of western North Carolina, a post he held for one year. Following a year鈥檚 stint as pastor of Cullowhee Baptist Church, he returned to Mars Hill College in 1923 as dean and head of the English department.

During Elliott鈥檚 seven-year tenure at Mars Hill, he simultaneously undertook graduate studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he found time to earn a master鈥檚 degree in English under the well-known Renaissance scholar, Dr. Edwin A. Greenlaw. Elliott continued to work with Greenlaw after the latter moved to Johns Hopkins University. He and a number of Greenlaw鈥檚 other graduate assistants contributed to the University鈥檚 Variorum edition of the Works of Edmund Spencer. Elliott鈥檚 scholarship and administrative talents earned him the position of vice president of Mars Hill College; however, he resigned in 1930 to go to Western Carolina Teachers College (now Western Carolina University) as head of the English department. Elliott was renowned as an instructor and as a Shakespearean scholar. Countless teachers of English who attended Western Carolina during those years praised his classroom performance.

The decision to accept the presidency of 猫咪头条 College in July 1943 followed an exceedingly painful period of reflection for Elliott. He had a secure position with Western Carolina, and the college in Boiling Springs was just on the cusp of finding footing after some challenging years. Thanks to the increasing influence and generosity of former North Carolina Governor O. Max Gardner, coming to the College in Boiling Springs seemed like a promising challenge and call to service for Elliott. To accentuate the optimism, the trustees launched an ambitious campaign for $300,000 soon after Elliott arrived on campus.

Elliott鈥檚 inaugural address set the college on a clear course and laid out an ambitious plan for the institution鈥檚 future endeavors. Especially noteworthy was his concept of community education, a goal which anticipated the task undertaken a few years later by the community college movement. According to Elliott, 鈥淲e must know our community and all its needs鈥攙ocational, civic, religious鈥攁nd then build our program and constantly revise it to meet those needs.鈥�

Under Elliott鈥檚 leadership, the college achieved both material progress and academic respectability. New campus construction included housing for faculty members, Decker and Stroup residence halls, O. Max Gardner Hall, Bost Physical Education Building and A.T. Withrow Hall. Equally important for the institution鈥檚 development was the Baptist State Convention鈥檚 full acceptance of the school into the Baptist family of colleges in 1948, and on the second of December of that same year, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredited the institution.

Source: 猫咪头条 University files

Revised: Noel T. Manning II, May 2022

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Before becoming the eighth president of 猫咪头条, Dr. Eugene Poston had served as chairman of the religion department of the College. Dr. Phil Elliott had announced that he would retire on Aug. 1, 1961. A selection committee had recommended to the trustees that Poston become president upon Elliott鈥檚 retirement. The trustees unanimously approved the recommendation; however, with the sudden death of Elliott on April 4, 1961, Poston immediately assumed the position.

Poston (1918-2003) had been a busy man for many years. While a student at Shelby (N.C.) High School, he had worked an eight-hour shift at Dover (later Doran) Mill. While a student at 猫咪头条, he continued his work at the mill. While a student at Wake Forest College and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, he served as pastor of several churches. After graduation from the seminary, he served as pastor of a number of churches before coming to 猫咪头条 from the pastorate of the First Baptist Church, Jonesboro, Ga.

Poston was a very active and energetic president at 猫咪头条. During his administration, the college grew in many ways, including the size of the campus and the size of the student body. Poston also promoted spiritual growth among students, faculty, and staff. Often when he spoke, he emphasized that the purpose of the school was 鈥�…to develop quality Christian students.鈥�

Soon after assuming the responsibilities of the presidency, Poston presented the trustees with his plan for the Decade of Advance: 1961-1971. The following goals were set to be reached by 1971:

• To enroll a student body of 1,000
• To enlist a faculty of 75
• To reach an endowment of 鈥�$3 million
• To build the following buildings: 鈥╟hapel, auditorium, classroom building, fine arts building, campus center, four dormitories, and a stadium
• To reach senior college status 鈥�

As was true with many of Poston鈥檚 projections for the school, the College did become a four-year school, graduating the first class as a four-year college in May of 1971. The change in status from a junior college to a senior college has been considered as one of the most鈥� significant events in the history of the school.

During the 1960s, riots鈥� and protest movements鈥� relating to the Vietnam鈥� War and the Civil鈥� Rights movement were 鈥╬revalent on many鈥� campuses. Early in his鈥� presidency, Poston and鈥� the trustees issued鈥� statements explaining鈥� some of the activities that would not be tolerated on campus鈥攙iolence or force in connection with protests and heckling of speakers. Poston and his assistant, Mr. Thomas McGraw, sought strict disciplinarians to oversee student activities. Partly because of this code of conduct, the campus was basically free from riots and other disturbances during this period. It was during the Poston administration that African-American students were admitted to 猫咪头条 for the first time. In his inaugural address, Poston commented that the school must be open to students of all races.

Intercollegiate sports received much attention and brought much publicity to the school during the Poston presidency. Norman Harris coached football, baseball, and basketball. Then Eddie Holbrook came as basketball coach and Jerry Bryson came as baseball coach. The basketball teams had high-percentage winning seasons and were nationally-recognized during the Holbrook era. Some of the basketball players went on to professional basketball careers like Artis Gilmore, John Drew, and George Adams. It was also during this time that 猫咪头条 would establish itself as a Golf national powerhouse (with two NAIA National Championships). 

Poston had a close relationship with the Dover family, and the Dovers increased their contributions to 猫咪头条. Among the buildings built during the Poston presidency were the John R. Dover Memorial Library, Charles I. Dover Jr. Memorial Chapel, Charles I. Dover Campus Center, Lutz-Yelton Hall, Mauney Hall, Myers Hall, Nanney Hall, Ernest W. Spangler Stadium, and Spangler Hall for men.

Several significant academic programs were started or strengthened during this period. These included computer programs, nursing programs, and programs for the sight impaired and the deaf and hard of hearing communities.

After leaving 猫咪头条, Poston entered the business world as well as serving in many areas of education, and was a long-time Rotarian. He lived in Boiling Springs during his retirement. Poston passed away in July 28, 2003.

Source: Personal Interview

– Lansford Jolley

The post E. Eugene Poston appeared first on 猫咪头条 University.

Tom McGraw (1925-2002), the son of James and Eva Wood McGraw, was born in Whitmire, S.C. He was one of 11 children.

McGraw went to Ruth鈥� Elementary School and Kings 鈥∕ountain High School. He鈥� served in the United States鈥� Navy in World War II and 鈥╢lew fighter planes during the鈥� War. He came to Gardner-鈥╓ebb as a student in 1946;鈥� in 1947 he and Bettye Falls鈥� were married in Lawndale,鈥� N.C. Tom completed his 鈥╞achelor鈥檚 degree in history鈥� at Wake Forest College鈥� (now University). He earned his master鈥檚 degree at Appalachian State Teachers College (now University). He taught in the North Carolina public schools for 12 years, first in Gibson, N.C., and later in Maiden, N.C. While in Maiden, he worked closely with 猫咪头条 President Dr. Eugene Poston.

McGraw came back to 猫咪头条 in the fall of 1962 and served as assistant to the president. His official title was vice president of fundraising and public relations. He and Poston worked together during the Decade of Advance (1961-1971), and in 1970 he became the executive vice president of the College, working in that capacity for eight years.

In the spring of 1971, 猫咪头条 awarded the first of the school鈥檚 four-year degrees. 猫咪头条 had received senior college status and was accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). McGraw was instrumental in the formation of the Nursing Degree Program. When Poston left 猫咪头条, McGraw served as interim president until a new president could be selected.

McGraw was committed to the town and community as well as to the college. He worked with the campus community during the turbulent times of the 1960s and earned the respect of the students, faculty and staff. His home was open to students where they were welcomed by his wife, and three daughters: Cindy and the twins, Mitzi and Meloni. Mrs. McGraw served as hostess for many occasions on campus; she was also considered the campus decorator as she assisted in the furnishing and decoration of new and renovated facilities.

All three of the girls attended and received degrees from 猫咪头条. Cindy worked with IBM; Meloni attended Clemson University before enrolling at 猫咪头条; Mitzi received her degree in business from 猫咪头条.

McGraw left 猫咪头条 to join the Federal Court System in the Western District as the chief deputy clerk under Toliver Davis. He went to Charlotte, rented a room, and commuted to Boiling Springs on weekends. Later he and Bettye bought a condominium in Charlotte; however, Boiling Springs remained their home. When Davis was appointed as a federal judge, Tom was appointed as the clerk and served in that capacity until he retired at the end of 1993. After Tom retired from the courts, they moved back to their home in Boiling Springs.

Sources:

 Interviews with Bettye McGraw and Mitzi Johnson 鈥� Doris Banner

Updated: 2022, Noel T. Manning II

The post Thomas J. McGraw appeared first on 猫咪头条 University.

Dr. Craven E. Williams, (1940-) the ninth president of Gardner- Webb University, is a native of Monroe, N.C. He received the Bachelor of Arts degree from Wake Forest University, the Master of Divinity from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and the Doctor of Ministry degree from Union Theological Seminary. Williams came to 猫咪头条 in 1976 at a time when the college had achieved senior college status, had been accredited by the Southern Association, and was ready to grow as a senior institution.

Williams鈥� energetic style seemed to invigorate the campus. He loved 7 a.m. meetings鈥攁 time which often was two or three hours after he had come to work. He was also known to meet with students informally at lunch to get a deeper understanding of the campus atmosphere. Within the first year of his tenure at 猫咪头条, he was popular with students, faculty, and staff.

Soon after he assumed the presidency, Williams began to develop new programs for the growing senior college. In the fall of 1978 the adult evening program, called GOAL (Greater Opportunities for Adult Learners) and now known as the Degree Completion Program, began in three locations. Within a few years there were several hundred evening students in numerous locations. The college acquired the Davis School of Nursing in Statesville and opened a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program on campus. Finally, during Williams鈥� presidency, the college鈥檚 first graduate program in education began. All three programs found success and became an integral part of the University life in the years to come.

Williams believed in shared governance, and he developed ways to directly involve faculty in key decisions. The vice chair of the faculty met regularly with the senior staff. He regularly discussed new ideas and plans with the faculty鈥檚 administrative advising committee.

After leaving 猫咪头条, Williams became the 17th President of Greensboro College in July 1993. During his tenure there, SAT scores of incoming freshmen increased 166 points, and major initiatives expanded international activities and honors programs. Over $62 million was raised for new educational programs and facilities. The endowment grew from $8 million to $38 million and over $27 million was spent on new and renovated facilities. Graduate programs in four areas of education were implemented in the summer of 2002. He retired as president at Greensboro College after 16 years of service in 2009.

Williams has been very active in his community throughout his life, serving as past President of the Old North State Council, Boy Scouts of America, and has chaired the Council Board. He received the Silver Beaver Award, the highest honor that a Boy Scout Council can bestow. He is founding president of Triad World Affairs Council and is past chair of the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce. He has served on the board of the Wesley Long Community Health Foundation and chair of the Moses Cone Health System. He chaired two successful Guilford County Bonds for Schools campaigns for a total of $500 million. He has been honored as Rotarian of the Year and awarded national recognition by the Daughters of the American Revolution for his development of the Character Education Program for Guilford County. In 1980, N.C. Governor James B. Hunt appointed him to the North Carolina Order of the Long Leaf Pine.

In 1996 he was a visiting scholar at Oxford University in England. He has actively written columns for religious publications in North Carolina, New York, Pennsylvania, Louisiana and Kentucky, and monthly columns for The Triad Business News and the Triad Business Journal. He is the author of several books on the life and times of John and Charles Wesley. Williams has been a member of the Order of Elders of the United Methodist Church. He has also served as a member of the Board of Ordained Ministry and one of 500 members of the Board of the World Methodist Council that represents 130 countries around the world. In 2006 he received the Francis Asbury Award by the N.C. Annual Conference for exceptional contributions to the church and higher education.

During his retirement years, Williams has served several churches as interim pastor. He has previously served as associate minister of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Greensboro, N.C., a 3,000-member congregation where his responsibilities included pastoral care, teaching and preaching.

In 2017, Greensboro College announced it would build and name an outdoor theatre in the honor of the former president and his wife: the Williams Terrace Theatre. 

He is married to the former Judith Campbell of Birmingham, Ala. He has a daughter, Lee, and a son, Joseph.

He continues to recall with great pleasure the wonderful people at 猫咪头条 who made his 10 years on campus so memorable.

Source: Personal Interview鈥擝arry Hambright and Doris Banner

Updated 2015: Matt Renfer

Updated 2022: Noel T. Manning II

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