The organization also recognized the University for its Business, Education and Nursing programs. In addition, Carson-Newman received special accolades for its Career Development initiatives for undergraduate students and for its support of international students.

“The schools that do career development well don’t wait for students to come to them,” said Schritter. “Carson-Newman meets students where they are early, consistently, and across every field of study.”

The COO points out that every student’s college journey is different and champions ���ϳԹ� approach to preparing the next generation of servant-leaders.

“No two students arrive on campus with the same goals, background, or definition of success,” he said. “The institutions we recognize understand that. Carson-Newman has built an environment where students are supported and challenged in ways that translate into real academic, professional, and personal outcomes.”

The dual assessments are composed of CliftonStrengths and Value in Action Character Assessment, or VIA,– both focus on distinctive elements, providing different insight into each student’s character.

Tina Murrow, an academic advisor within ���ϳԹ�’s Student Success Center, explains the difference of the two. “CliftonStrengths are ‘talents in the head,’” explained Murrow, who recently received certification within CliftonStrengths. Those include such themes as: achiever, analytical, consistency, developer, discipline, learner and strategic.

The VIA assessment are talents that come naturally in their heart. These include: creativity, bravery, kindness, leadership, humility, forgiveness and humor. Linking the two assessments give a picture of both “head” and “heart.”

“It’s strength-based coaching,” said Murrow. “It’s a positive psychology concept that you lean into your strengths, which are your natural talents. It’s helping them take those talents and flourish.”

The University is not the first or only school that implements such a strategy in preparing students, but with Carson-Newman’s Christ-centered approach to education, there may not be a better example of how the model dovetails with a university’s mission.

“This is something that is happening in many universities now, where they are focusing on CliftonStrengths and VIA,” said Partin. “But we’re looking at it through the lens of our Christian identity – being created in the image of God.”

After students take the assessments, a clearer picture comes into focus. Student Success then knows a student’s strengths, and they’re able to offer even more personalized guidance – specifically tailored to the individual and their natural abilities.

“When they come to see us, we’re not starting from a blank slate,” noted Partin. “We can see something that’s personal and individualized of how God created them.”

But even as the Student Success staff prepare to welcome new students in the fall, big picture planning continues. There’s a broader vision of incrementally expanding the model to faculty advisors.

“Student Success is creating a framework that can be taken out across the University for faculty to be able to use it when they’re coaching students,” said Partin. “That’s the goal.”

It all boils down to a more proactive approach in helping each student on their life journey.

“The ultimate goal is for students to flourish,” said Murrow, “to walk away knowing what their strengths are and leaning into those in all aspects.”

Partin agrees.

“We want to help students achieve their full potential through their discovery of their God-given identity, mastery of their gifts, and fulfillment of their vocation. We’re helping them discover those God-given gifts.”

Those inducted into the fifth class of the Robert Reedy Bryan Society were Dr. William and Carolyn Blevins, Ted and Drama Russell, and Dr. Gerald Wood. Named after the University’s second and sixth president, the society honors the dedicated and selfless service of retired faculty, staff and others whose service to the University is exceptional and meritorious.

Dr. William and Carolyn Blevins

Bill and Carolyn met as freshmen at Carson-Newman. They graduated in 1959, marrying one month later. With life-odysseys converged, they both pursued seminary degrees, after which life brought them back to Mossy Creek and the beginning of careers that would touch countless lives over the course of more than 70 years of combined service. Bill joined the faculty in, what was then, the Religion Department. Carolyn joined the department a few years later. Bill, who also had a background in psychology, began a part-time program through the department to offer counseling to ministers and their families. Carolyn poured herself into ���ϳԹ�’s Honors Program and efforts to support young women interested in ministry opportunities. Upon Bill’s retirement, and in recognition of his many contributions to the area of counseling, ���ϳԹ� established the “William Blevins Institute for Spirituality and Mental Health.” Both credit ���ϳԹ� for empowering them to pursue their passions while making a difference in the lives of students.

Ted and Drama Russell

There’s nothing wrong with Ted Russell’s vision. The octogenarian has always had a knack for seeing the potential in things. His love for automobiles came early in his life, as did his ideas of “what could be.” He realized for him to grow in the car business, he needed an education. He enrolled at Carson-Newman, graduating in 1962. His education coupled with his natural drive led him into a successful career in the automotive business and ultimately establishing the Ted Russell Automotive Group. But as with many great success stories, Ted had an essential supporter along the way: his wife, Drama. It was Drama, who later in Ted’s career, encouraged him to “become more involved.” This led him to serve on the University’s Board of Trustees and eventually as chair. With leadership and financial support of ���ϳԹ�’s Christ-centered mission, as evidenced in academic buildings bearing their names, the Russells’ shared vision is helping future servant-leaders prepare for God’s preferred future.


Dr. Gerald Wood

It could easily be said that Dr. Gerald (Jerry) Wood is the quintessential example of a liberal arts education. As a student, he chose the path of a liberal arts college, bouncing around in his studies – gravitating to science and then political science. However, it was the study of English that won his attention, as he felt drawn to his English teachers. In true liberal arts fashion, his constant pursuit to learn more opened new doors that spiderwebbed into American and British literature, with a lingering interest in drama. He joined ���ϳԹ� in 1971. He had a desire to connect with his students, share subjects that he cared deeply, and to have conversations and classroom moments that were student-focused. From teaching literature and developing a film program to establishing the Horton Foote Center for the Study of Theater and Film at ���ϳԹ�, Jerry not only flourished through the liberal arts model, he spent a 40-year, Carson-Newman career making it better.

Click here to read this year’s inductees’ full stories

“The heart of Carson-Newman is witnessed in the work and dedication of our faculty and staff,” said University President Charles A. Fowler. “They make fulfilling our Christ-centered mission possible. This year’s retirees are no exception. They have helped make Carson-Newman the special place that it is today. We are grateful for them and wish them the very best as they begin this new chapter in their lives.”

Retiring this year are:

Greg Hoover, Associate Professor of Sociology – 39 years

Rodney Miller, Maintenance – 10 years

Anita Newport, Administrative Assistant, Communication and Theological Studies – 40 years

Julia Price, Professor of Education – 21 years

Donald Rimmer, Maintenance – 28 years

Nilma Stewart, Director of International Admissions – 11 years

Jefferson Memorial Hospital CEO Shane Watson says the gift is an investment in the future of healthcare and caregivers.

“In honor of National Doctors’ Day, Jefferson Memorial Hospital is proud to announce a $1,000 donation to support the nursing program at ���ϳԹ�,” he said. “This contribution reflects the hospital’s continued goal of advancing healthcare education and investing in the next generation of caregivers. By supporting local nursing students, Jefferson Memorial Hospital aims to strengthen the future of healthcare in the community and ensure patients continue to receive high-quality patient care.”

Martin is a biology pre-health professions major from Gadsden, Alabama. A member of the Eagles softball team, Martin is a proven leader on the field, often delivering when her team needs her most. As a Gold Eagle Scholar, Martin combines her on-field performance with excellence in the classroom. This was also evident when she received the Academic All-District Award and was recognized as an All-American NFCA Scholar Athlete.

She has also demonstrated a heart for others. From leading a Bible study for her team to being active in service opportunities like the Boys and Girls Club’s Civic Engagement event, ���ϳԹ�’s Serve Day, and Eagles Night. A Faith and Justice Scholar, Martin has also served at the local hospital and has worked with the University’s Center for Community Engagement staff to plan and prepare for meetings and events.

Credited with having a quiet but valuable biblical impact, Martin has been described as being a grounded and humble leader with her identity being rooted in knowing Christ rather than being known by others.

“Abbi is a person whose personality reflects the light that the Lord has in her,” said Rachel Rogers, a member of ���ϳԹ�’s Center for Community Engagement staff. “Although she can be quiet in a large crowd, she has a big love that can only come from knowing Jesus.”

Plemons is a political science and Christian studies double major from Athens, Tennessee. Throughout his time at ���ϳԹ�, he has been heavily involved on campus in events and student organizations. He has been a member of Pi Sigma Alpha honor society, Student Government Association, captain of the ���ϳԹ� Cheerleading team, Homecoming King, worship leader for ���ϳԹ�’s chapel band, residence hall chaplain, orientation leader and ���ϳԹ�’s summer staff. He was also a member of the University’s award-winning Moot Court team and ���ϳԹ�’s Model United Nations team.

Beyond campus, he is just as active. His love for music and ministry has led him to serve several churches. For the last year he has served as worship leader at Mossy Creek Fellowship in Jefferson City.

Dr. Kara Stooksbury, chair of ���ϳԹ�’s Department of History and Political Science, describes Plemons as a humble servant who serves others before self-interest. “Keylon is an excellent student who is committed to serving the University and the world,” said Stooksbury. “I believe he embodies the traits set forth by the Sullivan Foundation.”

Dr. Stephen Joiner, associate professor of political science, echoes Stooksbury’s thoughts, adding that he looks forward to what the future holds for Plemons. “No matter what he chooses to do, I am confident that he will do great things and inspire others to do the same.”

The New York Southern Society established the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award in 1890 to honor an Indiana native and Manhattan attorney who was considered a living example of genteel spirit and Christian compassion. The awards, which are donated by the foundation that bears his name, are granted at more than 70 colleges and universities to graduating seniors, one female and one male, who “excel in high ideals of living, in fine spiritual qualities, and in generous and unselfish service to others.”

Those honored were Jasmine Lindsey, Ande Munsey, and Julie Rabun.

The University presented Rabun with the 2026 Distinguished Faculty Award. The honor is the University’s highest recognition of a tenured faculty member who is active within the community and recognized by their peers, students and alumni as an outstanding teacher and mentor.

Rabun joined Carson-Newman’s art faculty in fall of 2002 and began serving as chair of the Art Department in 2014. Throughout her tenure, she has been credited for being an inspiring teacher in the classroom and a tireless mentor for her students.

She used her talents to help with ���ϳԹ�’s Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) on service-learning, creating a service-learning course in the graphic design program, which paired art students with non-profit organizations in need of professional design work. This and other efforts led her to be honored with a Twin Pillars Award for Service-Learning. Over the years, she has directed or served as a reader on multiple honors projects and has helped design ���ϳԹ�’s annual student and faculty literary journal, “Ampersand.”

Rabun has not only served as an ambassador for the Art Department, she has also sought to improve and enhance it. She established a Mac computer lab in the Warren Art Building and has helped maintain it. She oversaw a committee that launched a major outreach and fundraising effort that replaced all the windows in Warren. She also helped secure funding to maintain and upgrade the building’s two art galleries, the Michael Alvis Gallery and the Julie Rabun Student Gallery.

An artist and freelance graphic designer and illustrator, Rabun’s work has been featured in several publications, and her work has been showcased in numerous exhibits.

Rabun received her undergraduate degree from Rhode Island School of Design before earning her Master of Fine Arts degree from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Jasmine Lindsey and Ande Munsey are this year’s recipients of the SOAR Award, the highest honor given to staff members. Recipients must have served ���ϳԹ� for at least five years and exhibit passion for furthering the University’s mission, excellence in their job performance, and positivity in their spirit and attitude.

As data management coordinator for ���ϳԹ�’s School of Education and Counseling, Lindsey is central to assisting faculty, supporting students, and collaborating with colleagues. Whether through assisting with administrative details for the William Blevins Institute for Spirituality and Mental Health or helping coordinate the Mossy Creek Literary Conference, she is often praised by her colleagues for her professionalism, grace, and integrity. She is credited with being creative, thoughtful and forward thinking, and dedicated to upholding the University’s Christ-centered mission.

Munsey serves as coordinator of institution research and development. A native of Morristown and resident of Talbott, Munsey has a reputation as a welcoming soul on campus. Of his some 30 years in higher education information technology, 12 have been at Mossy Creek. While at Carson-Newman he has shown a tireless dedication to his work while exhibiting a true dedication to the University’s mission. His colleagues describe his Christ-like humility and voice of encouragement. Munsey’s compassion for those around him is evident, as he often takes time in his busy day to help and to listen to others.

Isaac Melber, a 19-year-old ���ϳԹ� student from Buford, Georgia, fondly reflects on his first Sunday in the pulpit at Emmanuel Baptist Church. “It was January 18. I had my first preaching opportunity and I thought, ‘man, I enjoy this.’ When we came back, the guys said ‘hey, you need to fix this, but guess what? You did really good on that.’”

After a successful start to the Sunday efforts, momentum for the group grew, and the weekly gatherings continued.

The following month, the East Tennessee Baptist Association joined the Jefferson County Baptist Association, inviting the students to preach in their churches, with churches in Morristown and Knoxville following suit.

Recognizing the opportunity as a blessing, the young men have enthusiastically embraced the offers. From Jefferson County’s French Broad Baptist and White Pine Baptist to Cocke County’s Trinity Baptist and Calvary Baptist, the growing band of students has preached in over 40 churches since the fall semester.

“It’s a great discipleship tool that’s giving these guys hands-on experience to do what they’ve been called to do,” said Akin, adding that the weekly campus gatherings eventually led to the creation of the “Sermon Preparation and Delivery” course, which he now leads. The effort’s growth is something in which Akin gives the students full credit.

“They’re recruiting guys. They’re wanting to see this go beyond their time at Carson-Newman,” he said. “This is independent of me. I just kind of help empower and give them the space to do it.

“I’m most impressed with how seriously they take the task,” added Akin. “They’re avid students of the Bible and do a really good job for as young and inexperienced as they are. They’re not only incredibly teachable, they want to be taught.”

According to Akin, he could not be more pleased with the feedback he has received from pastors.

“They are delighted. I’m just so thankful to them because they are opening their pulpits to these young men and seeing it as a value of investing in them and letting them invest in their churches.”

Akin notes that the collaboration between churches and the next generation of pastors comes at an important time.

“We have a crisis in terms of the number of churches in our state that don’t have pastors. So the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board has been working with Carson-Newman, Union University and BCMs to try and create pipelines to get more pastors into the churches.”

From a student’s perspective, Melber says the chance to preach and gain experience is proving invaluable as he prepares for a pastoral calling he has felt since the age of 16.

“When I was in high school, I was nervous of public speaking,” said Melber, who considered himself shy prior to coming to Carson-Newman. “I would fumble my words and had a speech impediment as well. When I preach, that goes away, because I have the Word of God in my hand, and that’s my manuscript. I have the whole manuscript there. If you don’t deviate from it, you’re doing the Lord’s work.”

It’s but one example of how the aspiring pastors continue to grow. It’s a process that is rewarding to watch according to Akin, who says that mentoring and working with the group is an honor.

“My biggest hope is that they will become pastors who are able to shepherd their church with the Word of God, and I’m fully confident that they will be. I think these guys will be future leaders of the Tennessee Baptist Convention and beyond our local associations. I’m super excited to see where God takes them.”

Part of this was witnessed during the University’s annual Serve Day in the fall, where over 600 participants took part in outreach projects across Jefferson County and the surrounding area. Such local project sites included Agape Acres, Jefferson County Baptist Association, Isaiah 117 House, Newborns in Need, area schools and churches, Renovatus, Boys and Girls Club of Dumplin Valley, Head Start, LifeCare, and White Pine Senior Citizen Center.“Through hands-on service, whether packing meals for local non-profits, reading with children, or supporting area ministries, participants became the hands and feet of Jesus to our neighbors,” said Folk.

Freshman Nate Ball and his team helped with needs at the University’s Appalachian Ministries of the Smokies (AMOS). “It was such a great experience,” said Ball. “We helped move paint, carried boxes, and even built a shelf together. Already can’t wait for next year.”

Whereas Serve Day allows for students to go out into the community, “Eagles Night” invites the community to campus for an evening of family fun. In only its second year, Folk says Eagles Night has already had a tremendous impact. Featuring food, a variety of games with members of the Eagles athletic teams, and photos with ���ϳԹ�’s mascot “Talon,” the occasion also supports local ministries.

“From the requested donation items at the door, to the money spent on food, this event directly supports Isaiah 117 House and Appalachian Ministries of the Smokies (AMOS),” said Folk. “So families can know that their fun night out is also blessing vulnerable children and families in our region.”

Folk says that both Serve Day and Eagles Night are just two examples of the many ways the University is preparing students to serve their community, region and the world around them.

“I hope that as the bonds between Carson-Newman and local organizations deepen, our community partners will see our campus as a trusted, long-term ally in addressing real needs,” said Folk. “Ultimately, my prayer is that Jefferson City and the surrounding region will be different because generations of Eagles learned here how to love God and love people in very practical, relational ways.”