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Lees-McRae College is committed to providing a quality, affordable education preparing students for elevated futures.  In celebration of opportunities for Appalachian students, the college announced local scholarships for graduating seniors from the following counties in North Carolina and Tennessee:

• Avery County
• Watauga County
• Alleghany County
• Ashe County
• Burke County
• Mitchell County
• Yancey County
• Wilkes County
• Caldwell County
• Carter County, TN

Students who graduate from a high school in one of these counties, apply and are admitted to Lees-McRae will receive a $1,000 grant that is stackable with other academic merit, performance or need based scholarships.  Scholarships may be renewable for up to four years.�

Approximately 95% of Lees-McRae students receive some type of financial aid.  Current academic merit based scholarships range from $3,000 to $10,000 with limited full tuition awards.  Performance based scholarships range and are determined by the athletic or performing arts department.�

To learn more about these opportunities and to apply for admission, please visit www.lmc.edu.

Students in North Carolina counties are also eligible to receive an application fee waiver during College Application Week cosponsored by the College Foundation of North Carolina and the Carolinas Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers taking place November 14-18. Apply online at www.cfnc.org to receive this waiver.

Students, families and educators are invited to visit campus to experience Lees-McRae first hand.  For campus tour, open house and registration information, please visit www.lmc.edu/admissions/visit_us.

Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina, Lees-McRae College has the highest elevation of any college campus east of the Mississippi.  With 22 majors and 16 minors and a small average class size of 15, Lees-McRae is a great place to prepare for your successful future.

On Saturday, October 22, the North Carolina Society of Historians had its 71^st annual meeting. At the awards banquet, Lees-McRae College Professor Dr. Allen Paul Speer’s latest published book, From Banner Elk to Boonville, The Voices Trilogy: Part III, was chosen by three distinguished panels of judges to receive an award in each of the following categories: the Willie Parker Peace History Book Award, the Robert Bruce Cooke Family History Book Award, and the Ethel W. Twiford Religious History Book Award.

Judges noted that the book was ‘extremely well-written, reader friendly, interesting, and surprisingly honest; worthy of receiving recognition in three categories by this Society.” In addition, the panel said “This book is an outpouring of emotions from Mr. Speer with regard to his place in life and family. . . . This is a very special book, a book that delivers insight into Mr. Speer’s soul.”

Based on three volumes of his family history, Speer’s personal memoir draws together his heritage and his life in a moving account of his growing up surrounded by physical and emotional monuments to the past in his family’s home place in Boonville, NC. “Allen Speer’s Voices from Cemetery Hill trilogy presents a unique look at our mountain valley culture from before the Civil War to the present, showing how the threads from the past form an important part of the cloth of today,” said Dr. Michael Joslin, director of the Stephenson Center for Appalachia at Lees-McRae College.

Dr. Speer’s trilogy has won a total of eleven awards, including the prestigious American Association for State and Local History Award. In From Banner Elk to Boonville, Speer recounts the story of his growth and development by vividly narrating his personal history as well as by retelling tales told by his forebears, whose voices continue to speak from Cemetery Hill. He shows how genetics, family and community mythology, and his own experiences have created the Allen Speer whose voice joins those of his ancestors to create a poignant portrait of a Southern family and their culture.

Dr. Allen Paul Speer is a Distinguished Professor of Humanities at Lees-McRae College and has been teaching at LMC for thirty-four years.

By Robin Olson

On the morning of Saturday, August 27, the residents of Goose Creek Island were surprised by Hurricane Irene’s early arrival. The hurricane reached the island seven hours before the projected time of 11 a.m.

Sabra Nethercutt, a Lees-McRae student and resident of Goose Creek Island, woke up at 4:30 a.m. to eight inches of water that had already accumulated in her front yard. By 8:30, water began seeping into Sabra’s house, so she and her family began gathering canned goods, and mattresses and storing them in the attic to save them from the encroaching flood.

By early afternoon, the water was to Sabra’s knees, and had reached five to six feet outside her house. The skies had cleared considerably, and most thought the storm was reaching an end. The water was deep enough that Sabra’s cousin, Todd Poperwill, was able to drive his 25 ft. boat into her backyard. Todd was going to take Sabra and her family to his 50 ft. shrimping boat, so they jumped over the banister on her back porch and into the boat. “Road signs were almost underwater and the only thing you could see on my car was the top of the roof,” said Sabra.

Once again, Hurricane Irene surprised Goose Island. The calm they had been experiencing was just the eye of the storm, and the second wall was about to hit. Sabra and her family boarded her cousin’s bigger boat, the Miss Taylor, making a group of 14 people – five children under the age of eight, nine adults, two dogs and a cat. As the second wall of Hurricane Irene confronted the boat, nine foot waves were crashing on the port side, pinning the boat against the docks pillars and preventing the Miss Taylor from balancing itself. “There was a loose water tank under the boat that had rolled over to the starboard side, which played a major role in keeping the boat tilted.”

The Miss Taylor was at such a precarious angle, that 20 minutes after boarding the boat, they made the decision to move back to the smaller 25 ft. boat. Sabra’s cousin went first followed by her grandfather. He made it to the smaller boat, and while he was attempting to hold the two boats together, a large wave knocked him off the boat and into the water.

“All I could hear was my aunt screaming,” said Sabra. “We couldn’t find him until he stood up.” Somehow, by the grace of God, Sabra’s grandfather landed on the dock that was hidden under several feet of water. “I honestly thought he looked like Jesus standing on the water.” After her Granddad made it safely back to the boat, Sabra turned her attention to the children with her.

After getting caught in a net and almost falling, Sabra slid down the tilted deck and began handing the children over her head to her cousin. Todd would then toss them to Sabra’s boyfriend, who, in turn, would hand them to their aunt, and she kept them from sliding off the edges of the boat. By the time everyone was safely on the smaller boat, the Miss Taylor was completely sideways in the water. Todd attempted to direct the boat to the Coast Guard station around the point, but the waves had reached heights of 10 to 13 feet, which almost made the boat flip multiple times. Sabra huddled with the children, trying to keep them calm. “We prayed harder than ever.”

They decided instead to turn inland where the water was much calmer; however there was still powerful winds and ice-cold rain. They stopped at her cousin’s house to gather supplies, and while they were loading the boat, the water receded so quickly that the 25 ft. boat was stuck in his front yard. When the water was only ankle deep, Sabra and her family walked to Sabra’s house. They were thankful to have the dry beds they saved in the attic early that morning.

The next morning, devastation caused by Hurricane Irene was evident. Sabra’s kitchen ceiling caved in, and over three feet of water had accumulated in her house. “There were boats sitting the in middle of the road and in people’s front yards who didn’t have boats to start with,” said Sabra. Goose Creek Island is home to 500 residents, and only seven homes were not flooded. Many, just like Sabra’s family, lost their homes, their cars, and all of their possessions. Some are planning to leave Goose Creek Island, but most are staying and beginning to rebuild what Irene tore down.

Meanwhile, here at Lees-McRae College, students decided to unite in helping the residents of Goose Creek Island. Lindsey Bush and Emily Guenthner organized a relief effort for Sabra’s community and quickly advertised the event on Facebook. “They began by asking for donations from anyone who could participate. The Bonner Leaders quickly decided to get involved soon after,” said Kelsi Lane.

Kelsi and fellow Bonner, Whitney Brandon, decided to advertise to the entire campus what they were planning to do. They sent out a campus-wide email and made flyers encouraging people to donate to the cause quickly. “We only had a week to collect donations due to the extreme need of food, water, clothing, batteries, and more,” said Kelsi. “Lindsey Bush, Emily Guenthner, Olivia Looney, and a few other students went to Wal-Mart and purchased over $200 in donations out of pocket.” Other donations soon started pouring in.

Many students were eager to help, collecting batteries, canned food, water, clothing, feminine products, hygiene products, cleaning supplies, etc.… “The Banner Elk Presbyterian Church really came through with donations,” said Kelsi, “Pastor Joe [Washburn] and another member of the church decided to drive a van full of donations down to Goose Creek Island, which is roughly a six-hour drive.”

On Thursday, September 8, Kelsi and Whitney headed down to the Island as well to drop off more donations and participate in the relief efforts. That Friday, they focused on helping one individual clean out his home.

“The disaster was on an enormous scale. The homes mainly suffered from flood damage. This means most of the belongings in each home had to be thrown away,” explained Kelsi. “The residents were ecstatic to see the donations. A lot of them had essentially lost everything – even the basics like food and water.” The America Red Cross has also been assisting the Island, supplying them with hot meals for lunch and dinner.

“Goose Creek Island is so thankful, and we greatly appreciate everything the Lees-McRae students have donated,” said Sabra. However, there is still plenty to do for Goose Creek Island. They are still accepting donations, and especially need bleach, fans, packing boxes, bug spray, towels, clothing, and school supplies. If you are interested in making a donation, please contact Sabra Nethercutt (sn0107829@lmc.edu), Kelsi Lane (kl0101563@lmc.edu) or call the Pamlico Country Courthouse at (252)-745-4821.

Lees-McRae alumnus Melvin Whittenburg ’85 has many wonderful memories of his time on campus, many of which include wearing the green and gold Bobcats football uniform. But Lees-McRae means much more to Whittenburg than the memories made on the football field.

“Matthew 22:37-40 states ‘love your neighbor as yourself’ – LMC embraced me with open arms after many larger schools closed their doors of opportunity to me. LMC not only took me in, but provided a warm and loving attitude that motivated me to become a better student and extremely proud to be an LMC Bobcat,” said Whittenburg. “Stop and think about how profoundly this attitude would change the world if every campus carried it out? Jesus summed up the entire point of God’s law in two phrases, and both of them – loving God, and loving our neighbors – are all about putting the needs of others before our own. That’s what LMC meant to me. Lees-McRae molded a foundation that prepared me for the challenges life would through my way.”

Whittenburg can sum up the importance of Lees-McRae to him in a few points: Learning about life, memories, and chosen people.

“Lees-McRae taught me that the world is filled with many different people and cultures that are different from our own. Therefore, I shall strive to treat all with the same love and respect that I desire for myself. Secondly, it’s not the size of the school that matters, but the size of the hearts of its faculty and students that count the most. LMC was not just an institution of higher learning, it was a family that prepared its members to be loving, kind, and to strive to make a positive impact in the world for all mankind,” he said.  “I also learned that I can achieve anything my heart desires if I put Jesus first and love my neighbors as I love myself.”

Whittenburg cherishes the everlasting friendships and memories he made at Lees-McRae that have been ongoing for more than 25 years.

“I believe that the LMC family of faculty, staff and students were handpicked by our Lord to bond, unite, and become one with the common purpose of making a difference in the world,” said Whittenburg.

Whittenburg attributes much of his success to the days spent at Lees-McRae College. “All of my past and future accomplishments are only because of the LMC degree that hangs on my home office wall.  Without that LMC degree, I would not have been able to obtain more advanced degrees; I would not have been blessed with two outstanding careers as an Army Officer and ExxonMobil Corporation employee; I would not have met my wife; I would not have been blessed with two beautiful daughters; I would not have been blessed with a home and cars; and I would not have been blessed to give back to Jesus, my family, and LMC.”

When asked what advice he would share with current and future Lees-McRae students, Whittenburg responded, “Remember, you did not get to LMC by accident. The four years you spend on the highest elevated campus in the East will indeed be full of everlasting friendships and memories. Strive to be all you can be, give 100%, and be kind to all mankind. The roads of life are filled with many bumps and curves, but always remember that if someone else can do it, so can you.  Never let Jesus, yourself, your family, or LMC down, always strive to make future generations better.  Remember that many of your future accomplishments will be because of those who came before you and your LMC degree.”

Dr. William Turner, Distinguished Professor of Appalachian Studies and Regional Ambassador from Berea College, will present a program as part of the Stephenson Center for Appalachia’s Lecture Series Thursday, September 29, at Lees-McRae College in the Carson Library. Beginning at 7:00 p.m., Turner will share his experiences and insights as Southern Appalachia’s premier scholar of black Appalachia.

Born in Lynch, Kentucky, Bill Turner pioneered the study of African Americans in Appalachia. Turner’s mentor at the University of Kentucky where he received his B.A. degree in 1968 was John Stephenson, whom the lecture series celebrates. Turner proceeded to receive his master’s degree and doctorate from the University of Notre Dame. His book Blacks in Appalachia published in 1985 is a seminal work in the field.

Turner has had a distinguished career as a professor, researcher and administrator at several colleges and universities, and is in high demand as a speaker on Appalachia and African American culture.

“Dr. Bill Turner is a unique voice in Appalachian scholarship. He is an excellent speaker as well as scholar,” said Dr. Michael Joslin, director of the Stephenson Center for Appalachia. “His personal experience, his writings, and his wide acquaintance throughout Southern Appalachia provide an illuminating perspective on black Appalachia. We invite everyone to join us for this important program.”

Turner’s lecture is free and open to the public beginning at 7:00 p.m. on September 29th in the Carson Library on the Lees-McRae campus. For information call Meghan Wright at 898-8729.

Lees-McRae College will celebrate Founder’s Day on Friday, September 23 with a special dedication of a life-size bronze sculpture of Founder Rev. Edgar Tufts in Swank Park. The dedication ceremony and will begin at 11 a.m.

Commissioned and donated by Trustee Murray White and wife, Carolyn, the sculpture in Swank Park will honor the life and legacy of service of Rev. Tufts.

By the end of the 19^th century, the Presbyterian Church was becoming established in the mountains of western North Carolina, and in the summer of 1895 Concord Presbytery sent a young student from Union Theological Seminary in Virginia to organize a church at Banner Elk. In 1897, newly ordained, the Reverend Edgar Tufts returned as pastor of the church and remained to serve the community until his death in 1923.

In the winter of 1899, concerned with the limited offering of the district school which was supplemented only by summer school work conducted by the church, Rev. Tufts took some of the young people of the neighborhood into his study for further instruction. This small group, called the Class of 1900, marks the beginning of Lees-McRae College.

Rev. Tufts saw, however, that this effort was not enough and that there was a need for a boarding school, especially for the girls of the mountain region. A small amount of money was raised at a prayer meeting and the promise of lumber and labor made possible the opening in 1900 of a frame dormitory for fourteen girls and one teacher. One of the summer school teachers was Elizabeth A. McRae, originally of South Carolina, who had been sent to Banner Elk by Fayetteville Presbytery. Knowing the devoted character of her work, Rev. Tufts named the institute for her. A few years later, after a boys’ department had been opened at Plumtree, he added the name of Mrs. McRae’s friend, Mrs. S.P. Lees of Kentucky and New York, who had been a generous benefactor. The schools were chartered by the state in 1907 as the Lees-McRae Institute. In 1927 Lees-McRae became coeducational when the boys unit was moved to Banner Elk after the buildings at Plumtree had been destroyed by fire.

Lees-McRae Institute became Lees-McRae College in 1931, gradually eliminating the high school department to form an accredited, coeducational junior college. In 1987 the Board of Trustees of Lees-McRae College voted to seek senior college status. In June of 1990 the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools granted Lees-McRae status as a senior (four-year) college.

Over a hundred years after its founding, Lees-McRae College continues in the vision of the Rev. Tufts meeting the educational needs of the Southern Appalachian region and beyond. The college continues to fulfill its motto, in the mountains, of the mountains, and for the mountains while extending its ministry of education and service to diverse populations.

For more information, contact Meghan Wright, director of communications, at wrightm@lmc.edu or call 828-898-8729.

Brent Bookwalter, a 2006 graduate of Lees-McRae and 2010 Hall of Fame inductee, made his second appearance in the Tour de France this year, aiding teammate Cadel Evans’ first TDF victory. Bookwalter, who went pro in 2008, races for BMC Racing, a Swiss-based racing team.

As a Bobcat, Bookwalter won seven national titles in collegiate mountain biking.

Read more about Bookwalter’s Tour de France experience at www.lmcbobcats.com or by clicking here.

Alumnus Gary T. Moss, Jr. ’99 knows the value of a Lees-McRae education. Now a Certified Financial Planner™ practitioner in Boone, and father of two children with a third due any day, Moss remembers the time he spent at Lees-McRae fondly, and believes in giving back to his alma mater.

“Lees-McRae College is truly a place like no other. The students, faculty, staff, and community welcome newcomers with open arms. Whether visiting the campus for the first time or returning for a long awaited reunion, you will experience the warm and friendly atmosphere,” said Moss. “Lees-McRae College is a place built on friendships and relationships that last a lifetime.”

Moss believes it is important to recognize when presented an opportunity. “Lees-McRae afforded me the opportunities of both an education and life experience. As a father of two, and soon three, I have come to understand the importance of giving back. I’d like to share my knowledge and experience so that other students may have similar opportunities.”

When asked about the advice he would share with Lees-McRae students now, Moss responded with three wise suggestions. “First, have fun! You will look back one day and see how fast this time of your life goes by.”

“Second would be to remember your roots,” Moss said. “Never forget where you started and appreciate the journey you travel each day. Lastly, take advantage of every opportunity. Some will present themselves clearly and instantly; others may appear in a challenge. Like Albert Einstein said, ‘in the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.’”

“Each student has a gift, a gift that should not be wasted. Be it academics, athletics, arts, business, etc., apply your gift to the opportunity presented while at Lees-McRae, for these will become the building blocks of your future,” said Moss.

From orientation to graduation, a Lees-McRae experience is filled with unique and fun memories. Many of those memories Moss attributes to the small-town atmosphere he grew to love as a Lees-McRae student and Banner Elk resident. “The community, the people and the beautiful mountain setting gave me so much enjoyment. Many memorable days were spent skiing, hiking and biking,” Moss remembers. “As an alumnus, it makes me proud to see the efforts that Lees-McRae has made to include the town and its surroundings into the curriculum.”

As an Ameriprise CFP® Certified Financial Planner™ practitioner, Moss now helps individuals reach their financial goals through a personal relationship based on personalized, knowledgeable financial advice. Along with his involvement with Lees-McRae College, Moss is active in Meals on Wheels, the Watauga Leadership Challenge, Boone Chamber of Commerce and he’s a board member of the Watauga County Chapter of the Red Cross.

He attributes much of his success to his Lees-McRae education, particularly professors in the business division who brought real world experiences to the classroom. “As a business owner, I am able to utilize and appreciate the lessons they taught me that are now proving to be invaluable.”

The Lees-McRae College Alumni Association honored Bobcat alumnae sisters Karol Ogburn Laws ’50 and Jean Ogburn Neal ’52 with the Alumni Service Award at the banquet during Frolic Week this July.

Both Laws and Neal are longtime members of the Alumni Board and active supporters and volunteers for Lees-McRae College.

Karol Ogburn Laws ’50 is a retired medical technologist living in High Point, NC. She is an active member of Grace Community Church.

After more than 20 years on the Alumni Board, Laws will end her tenure this year. She served as chair of the Golden Heritage Society since 2001, successfully leading fundraising efforts for three major projects including the Veterans Memorial in Swank Park, furnishing The Alumni House and the Alumni Finder software project for the Advancement Office. She has been an active participant in Alumni Frolic Week and Homecoming for many years.

Jean Ogburn Neal ’52 retired from medical records work in Guilford County. She is active in several community organizations including High Point Theatre and High Point Museum, volunteering in school and remaining active in the American Health Information Management Association. She is also an active member at Oak Ridge United Methodist Church.

Neal served on the Alumni Board for more than 20 years, participating on the By-laws Committee, Nominating Committee, and leading the Greensboro Alumni Chapter for over 20 years. She is a regular and active participant in Alumni Frolic Week and Homecoming. She will also conclude her service on the Alumni Board this year.

Members of a Lees-McRae College legacy family, both Neal and Laws are advocates, volunteers and annual donors to Lees-McRae College.

“It’s extraordinary the work these two Bobcat sisters have done on behalf of Lees-McRae College. It’s been my joy to work with them over the years,” said Michelle Vance Scott ’86/’90, Assistant Director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations.

The Golden Heritage Society voted unanimously at a meeting during Alumni Frolic Week to begin a fundraising campaign to replace the roofs on three of the campus’s historic building: North Carolina Building, Virginia Residence Hall and Tennessee Residence Hall.

President Barry M. Buxton discussed with members of the Society in attendance the College’s priority capital needs. The $105,000 roof repair project was one of those identified on the capital needs list for campus improvements.

In a meeting led by Carol Lowe Timbiln ’60, the new chair of the Golden Heritage Society, the group of alumni of 50 years or more decided to fund the project that will replace the roofs.

Timblin wrote in a letter to members of the Golden Heritage Society, “After discussing this project, as well as several others, GHS members in attendance voted unanimously to replace the roofs on these historic buildings. The total cost of the project is $105,000 – $17,000 for the roof for North Carolina and $44,000 each for Virginia and Tennessee. Lees-McRae desperately needs our help.”

Other buildings on campus have been in need of restoration and repair, and longtime supporters of Lees-McRae have responded to those needs. Last month, the Charles A. Cannon Charitable Trusts, the Hayes Trust, and The Cannon Foundation committed $403,000 to Lees-McRae for renovating Tate Residence Hall (the old Grace Hospital) and several houses on Faculty Hill; updating the Cannon Student Center, plus the adjacent courtyard; and repairing campus steps and sidewalks. In addition, the Board of Trustees designated more than $70,000 to replace the roof on the Bowman Science Building and other urgent capital needs.

“Great things continue to happen for Lees-McRae College! I am grateful to alumni in the Golden Heritage Society for their pledge in support of the roof replacement project on our historic buildings. This work is critically important as we strive to remain competitive in the marketplace,” said President Buxton.

During the meeting, Carol Lowe Timblin ’60 officially took over as chair of the Society. She follows the leadership of Karol Ogburn Laws ’50 who successfully led the Golden Heritage Society through several fundraising projects including the Alumni Finder software project for the Advancement Office, the Lees-McRae College Veterans Memorial and furnishing The Alumni House.

For additional information about the Golden Heritage Society, the roof replacement fundraising project or how to make a gift to Lees-McRae College, contact Caroline Hart, vice president for advancement at hartc@lmc.edu or (828) 898-8777.

The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation awarded Lees-McRae College an Appalachian College Association 2011 Faculty-Led Mini-Grant to support Spanish curriculum and International Business curriculum by helping to financially support study abroad opportunities for students in Costa Rica.

“Our core curriculum has a global citizenship thread, and almost all of our 22 academic programs have at least one course that focuses on global education themes. However, we have no solidified travel abroad program in a Spanish-speaking country at this time,” said Trudy Morlino, assistant professor of business and co-author of the grant proposal.  “It should be noted that Spanish is the only foreign language offered at Lees-McRae College, which is part of the reason a study abroad program in Costa Rica is of importance for educational programming.”

According to the proposal submitted by professors Rachel Chrane and Trudy Morlino, co-authors of the grant proposal, Costa Rica is the ideal location for an interdisciplinary trip because it offers something unique for all disciplines.

For example, International Business students would benefit from learning about ecotourism from its founder, as well as international trade practices from this politically and financially stable country.

Wildlife Biology students benefit from studying the flora and fauna of a country that has more than 190 protected biological reserves, wildlife refuges, national parks, and other protected areas. On longer stays they can also participate in sustainable-development projects on a tropical farm and research center at E.A.R.T.H. University.

International Studies, History and Criminal Justice students gain insight into a neutral country that has had no army since 1949. On longer stays they can dig deeper in international peace studies at the United Nation’s University for Peace near San José.

Education students benefit from service-learning projects in elementary schools in the country with the highest literacy rate of Central America. During longer stays, they can also participate in internships and do a portion of their student-teaching in Costa Rica.

Performing Arts students have multiple opportunities for attending performances, and if going for a longer stay, opportunities for participating in theatrical events.

Psychology and Sociology students gain understanding about the effect of living “la pura vida” from inhabitants of Costa Rica, one of the world’s “blue zones”, thus named for the longevity and the happiness of its inhabitants.

Spanish students benefit from speaking Spanish with native speakers in a country that is known for its clear, unclouded accent. On longer stays in a total-immersion environment, they can become fluent in Spanish while in Costa Rica.

“We hope to increase awareness across the Less-McRae campus of the opportunities available for our students to study outside of the United States in order to broaden their horizons, increase their cultural awareness, and to heighten their awareness as global citizens,” said Morlino.  “Rachel and I are encouraging all departments on our campus to become involved in the Costa Rica trip.”

According to the Mellon Foundation website, all grants made by the Liberal Arts Colleges Program[of the Mellon Foundation] result from invitations issued by the Foundation to institutions and organizations with which staff have engaged in preliminary exchanges. Uninvited proposals are not considered. Fundamental among these criteria [for selection] is a preponderant institutional commitment to a broad liberal education, as opposed to pre-professional training. In general, the program’s grants are aimed at providing additional research and professional opportunities for faculty members … and assisting colleges as they review and refurbish their curricular offerings.

Dr. William Turner, Distinguished Professor of Appalachian Studies and Regional Ambassador from Berea College, will present a program as part of the Stephenson Center for Appalachia’s Summer Lecture Series this Wednesday, July 27^th, at Lees-McRae College in the Carson Library. Beginning at 7:00 p.m., Turner will share his experiences and insights as Southern Appalachia’s premier scholar of black Appalachia.

Born in Lynch, Kentucky, Bill Turner pioneered the study of African Americans in Appalachia. Turner’s mentor at the University of Kentucky where he received his B.A. degree in 1968 was John Stephenson, whom the lecture series celebrates. Turner proceeded to receive his master’s degree and doctorate from the University of Notre Dame. His book Blacks in Appalachia published in 1985 is a seminal work in the field.

“Dr. Bill Turner is a unique voice in Appalachian scholarship. He is an excellent speaker as well as scholar,” said Dr. Michael Joslin, director of the Stephenson Center for Appalachia. “His personal experience, his writings, and his wide acquaintance throughout Southern Appalachia provide an illuminating perspective on the black Appalachian experience. We invite everyone to join us for this important program.”

Turner’s lecture is free and open to the public beginning at 7:00 p.m. on July 27^th in the Carson Library on the Lees-McRae campus. For information call Meghan Wright at 898-8729.

Lees-McRae College Division of Education and Teacher Education is proud to offer its students a new and unparalleled opportunity through its teacher education programs. As part of the newly added Classroom Assessment course, students will participate in the mandatory statewide training in using formative assessment strategies, using the Department of Public Instruction’s new online professional development modules, NC FALCON.

Serving as the lead pilot university to embed this training in their education program, Lees-McRae students not only participate in the professional development series, but are trained in using specific strategies to determine student performance in their classroom, create unit curriculum plans that embed these strategies, and prepare to implement their plans during their student teaching.

“To be allowed to share this training module with our pre-service teachers as part of their overall education before they enter the workforce is a wonderful opportunity for our students,” claims Sabrina Crawford, the instructor who was instrumental in securing LMC inclusion in this process. “Not only will they receive the benefit of a thorough understanding of the processes involved in using formative assessment in the classroom, but when they apply for jobs, they will be certified as having completed this training process, saving districts and principals the cost and time required to train new teachers. This makes them extremely marketable.”

In the fall of 2010, Lees-McRae College became one of four North Carolina Colleges and Universities permitted to pilot NC FALCON with their pre-service teachers, along with NC State and UNC Greensboro, and became the lead pilot institution in the winter of 2010. In this capacity, LMC has been able to offer its students the opportunity to participate in some amazing events during the past year.

In March of 2011, representatives of DPI videotaped student presentations on Formative Assessment strategies and conducted student interviews, all of which will be turned into one of the additional video resources for NC teachers on the NC FALCON site.

In April 0f 2011, they led a conference session at the Collaborative Conference for Student Achievement in Greensboro, sharing their understanding, processes and intended impacts in the classroom in front of a room full of teachers, principals, and district leaders. Several of the audience members shared that their presentation was one of the most meaningful ones they had attended during the 3 day conference.
Finally, in May 0f 2011 they were asked to present in front of more than 150 district leaders in Raleigh.

These experiences have changed the way LMC students view their education. “It really made me see that what we are learning isn’t just about writing the next paper or creating the next lesson plan. What we are learning is actually being discussed and used right now all across the state, and we’ve been asked to be a part of that discussion,” stated one of the student presenters.

During their student teaching, two of the seniors introduced their building principal to NC FALCON, and led the conversation on how formative assessment could change classroom instruction. Lees-McRae College students aren’t just studying to become leaders in their fields; they leave our program as established leaders.

Raised in Watauga County, Toni Cook, Class of 2001, began working at Elk River Club shortly after graduating from Watauga High, but knew she wanted to continue her education after high school.

So, she began taking classes at local community colleges and attended Appalachian State University, but Toni found it difficult to continue her education since she was working full-time at Elk River.

After reviewing the curriculum at Lees-McRae, Toni decided to explore the opportunity to earn a degree closer to home and work that would help her advance in her career at Elk River Club.

“The instructors and administrative staff were so helpful with their guidance and advice. They made it much easier to decide on a definite course of action and to stick to it to finish my education,” said Toni.

“I have been so fortunate in my career to have the opportunity to do something I truly enjoy, due in part to the education I received at LMC,” Toni said.  Her Lees-McRae education gave her the foundation to excel to her current position of General Manger at Elk River Club.

“LMC is not only important to me as an alumna, but also as a member of the community,” said Toni. “I value the culture it brings to our area. It is a wonderful college that is filled with tremendous talent, both in the student body and the faculty and staff.  It is a great asset to Banner Elk and Avery County.”

When asked about the advice she would share with current Lees-McRae students, Toni said, “The work ethic you establish in your academic career will set the tone for your professional life.  I encourage students to be dedicated to their education and not to undervalue the effect a great education will have on your future.”

Lees-McRae College is pleased to be able to share its facilities with members of the community through Community Membership passes. A $100 membership fee allows access to the following facilities on campus.

The facility use form and payment can be completed with Justin Kitts, director of campus life and recreation, in the Cannon Student Center or the Arthur Student Recreation Complex. For more information, contact Justin Kitts at call 828-898-8753 or kittsj@lmc.edu.

The Community Membership fee is a yearly fee. All paying members will receive an official college photo ID. Paying members are allowed one guest per day at the rate of $5 for each guest pass. Guest passes may be used each day during regular facility hours.

At Lees-McRae College, we are serious about volunteerism! We welcome volunteers to sign up for our annual clean-up and light restoration of campus before our freshman and returning students come back for fall classes. Mark your calendar for July 28 and July 29 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Last summer, Volunteer Day was so successful that we are hosting volunteers for two days this year. Now volunteers can sign up to work on campus for just one day, or for two for an even more positive impact! This endeavor is perfect for any person or small group of adults who want to lend their talents and skills short-term for the beautification of campus.

After the first Volunteer Day on July 29, 2010, President Buxton declared it a great success. “Our first Volunteer Day has been a great success. It’s amazing what a little paint and ‘elbow grease’ can do!” said Lees-McRae College President Barry M. Buxton.

With more than 150 volunteers last year, Volunteer Day turned into Volunteer Days. Projects will include painting, cleaning, landscaping, carpentry, and beautification of campus!

Volunteers will gather in the Mac Donald Dining Hall to meet with their prospective group.  Each project on both days will be led by an LMC employee. Supplies and lunch will be provided in MacDonald Dining Hall. If you represent a company and your company would like to appear on our supply list of donated items, please contact Cindy Priest, Assistant to the President, at (828) 898-8785 or email her at priestc@lmc.edu.

Register online today for one or both Volunteer Days. Click HERE to register!

“Fresh Tracks” is a four day and three night backpacking, rock climbing, camping and hiking trip designed to introduce incoming freshmen to the beautiful mountains surrounding the Lees-McRae College campus. New students will also have the opportunity to meet and share adventures with other incoming students and begin to build friendships before the fall orientation when they move into their residence halls.

“We are so excited for the incoming freshmen to make meaningful connections with other new students and the LMC area over the summer through this new program”, said Dee Thomas, Director of Outdoor Programs.

Trips will run July 14th-17th and July 28th-31st, 2011.

All Lees-McRae College Rock Climbing, Hiking and Backpacking Programs taking place on National Forest Service Lands, and are authorized under a Special Use Permit by the Pisgah National Forest

For More information contact Dee Thomas, Director of Outdoor Programs.
1.828.898.8810
thomasd@lmc.edu

Or visit the Outdoor Programs website.

Miranda Lilly, a 2011 graduate of Lees-McRae College from Lebanon, VA, has been accepted into the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech for the fall 2011 semester.

A biology major with a pre-veterinary studies concentration, Lilly graduated summa cum laude from Lees-McRae College on May 7. She is a member of the Alpha Chi National Honor Society and was enrolled in the College’s Honors Program.

“I have felt the call to care for animals since I was four-years-old,” said Lilly. “I have been encouraged throughout my life to fulfill my dream, and I finally made it happen.” Lilly was also accepted to the veterinary medicine program at Colorado State University, but decided to attend school in her home state of Virginia.

To prepare for her career working with animals, Lilly volunteered at Linville Animal Hospital, Watauga Humane Society and the Blue Ridge Wildlife Institute during her time at Lees-McRae. She is currently employed at the Linville Animal Hospital.

When asked how her experience at Lees-McRae helped prepare her for veterinary school, Lilly named one special professor who had an impact on her education at LMC. “Dr. Claude Pyatte was my academic advisor and mentor at LMC, and I couldn’t have done it without him. He was my source of strength and encouragement in hard times, and he provided an insight that no one else could because he attended veterinary school himself,” Lilly said. “The knowledge I gained in his classes made me feel prepared to attend veterinary school.”

Lilly remained active on campus and in the community while working on her degree at Lees-McRae. She was a Bonner Leader and Americoprs volunteer for two years, where she completed 900 hours of volunteer service. She was a member of CATCH (Campus After the Class Hours), an organization that planned various campus activities and was also an orientation peer leader for incoming freshmen for two years.

“People expressed doubts when I told them I was attending a small liberal arts school for undergrad. They said that it would be harder to get into veterinary school that way, but I totally disagree,” Lilly explained. “Lees-McRae’s personal environment made me feel like part of a family that I could gather strength from anytime I needed it. It also allowed me to fulfill all of my prerequisite classes for veterinary school while having a great college experience and making friends I will never forget.”

When asked about her plans upon completion of veterinary school, Lilly responded, “I plan on working for the USDA or another government agency for several years and eventually owning my own small animal veterinary practice.”

Lilly shared some advice with future Lees-McRae students, especially those hoping to attend veterinary or medical school. “The single most important thing you need to remember is to never give up. As hard as it seems, you can push through it and make your dream happen. It’s hard work, but getting that acceptance letter is one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have.”

Lilly is a 2008 graduate of Lebanon High School. Her parents are Scot and Diana Lilly, and her grandparents are Jerry and Christine Wilson and Maggie Rasnake.

Lees-McRae College will be tobacco-free on June 1. The Banner Elk campus becomes the 39^th college in the state to have a tobacco-free policy in place.

Lees-McRae is committed to providing its employees and students with a safe and healthful environment. The College also recognizes the use of tobacco products on campus grounds is detrimental to the health and safety of students, staff, faculty and visitors.

The tobacco-free policy will create a 100% tobacco-free campus that prohibits the use of tobacco including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and smokeless tobacco by students, faculty, staff, and visitors in all campus facilities or property owned or leased by Lees-McRae College and outside areas on campus where non-smokers cannot avoid exposure to smoke.

“We at Lees-McRae College believe that it is our responsibility to actively engage our students in transforming their world and being leaders of change. Accepting responsibility for improving our environment begins on our campus. Knowing the detrimental effects of tobacco use, we believe that we can no longer support its use on campus,” said President Barry Buxton.

Faculty and staff will have access to smoking cessation medications through health insurance plans. The Student Development Office will offer smoking cessation support groups for students and Counseling Services will also provide support for students who choose to quit using tobacco products.