Every Frontier Needs a Pioneer

Since 1794, Tusculum University has equipped students to step into new frontiers with purpose, community, and faith. From our earliest days on the Appalachian frontier to the evolving world our graduates enter today, we have remained true to our mission: to provide an education that prepares students for meaningful lives and impactful careers. Though the frontiers have changed over 230 years, our commitment has not.

Today, nearly sixty percent of Tusculum students are the first in their families to attend college. Their courage, discipline, and hope embody the spirit of Tusculum’s founders, young people stepping boldly into new territory for themselves and for generations to come.

Students Who Are Changing Their Futures and Ours

Among these trailblazers is Madison McGinnis, a senior sport science major from Knoxville.
“It’s a good feeling to know that I’m the first in my family to come to college. They’re proud of me. It sets a standard for my family,” Madison shared. “I wanted to get my education. I felt like I couldn’t get the job I wanted without the degree.”

Her determination is echoed by fellow senior Stephen Brewer, whose advice is simple but powerful:
“One piece of advice I can give is to always, day by day, put one foot in front of the other.”

For Jerry Ricker of Kingsport, cross country runner, track athlete, and first-generation student, the value of education extends beyond personal achievement.
“I’m hoping to be an example for my brothers and sisters. It’s a big motivator for me going through college being first generation.”

And William Watson IV, a business student, captures the heart of why your generosity matters:
“This is my chance to change my life and create a better future for myself and my family.”

Every day, Tusculum students write stories of resilience, purpose, and transformation. And every day, donors like you make those stories possible.

A Campus Transformed by Opportunity

You can see transformation happening across campus—nowhere more clearly than in the Thomas J. Garland Library. The library regularly fills with students studying, collaborating, and discovering new passions. During First Generation Celebration Day, the library hosted an exhibit that lifted up first-generation voices and highlighted authors whose journeys reflect our students’ own paths.

The Garland Library is more than a building; it is the academic heart of Tusculum. With donor support, the Garland Library Refresh will:

• Upgrade technology

• Enhance flexible study and collaboration spaces

• Preserve the library as a vibrant center of learning for decades to come

Frontiers: A Campaign for Tusculum University

Tusculum’s comprehensive campaign, Frontiers, is a $13.5 million initiative designed to fortify student success, expand opportunity, and prepare the university for the future. Your year-end gift can directly support:

AFFORDABILITY

Gap Scholarships – $250,000
Help close the final financial gap that keeps talented students, especially those from low-income families, from enrolling or persisting.

First Generation Scholarships – $125,000
Empower students who are breaking generational barriers and stepping into new opportunities.

General Scholarship Fund – $500,000
Provide the broadest support for student scholarships across all programs and needs.

Endowed Scholarships – beginning at $25,000
Establish a permanent, named scholarship that honors someone meaningful to you. Endowed levels include:

• Trustee Scholar – $750,000

• President’s Scholar – $500,000

• Honors Scholar – $250,000

• Pioneer Scholar – $125,000

• Endowed Scholarship – $25,000 (minimum)

Legacy Scholarships allow donors to honor professors, staff members, or loved ones who shaped their lives.

STUDENT EXPERIENCE

Opportunities that deepen learning, strengthen programs, and enrich campus life:

Faculty & Program Endowments

• Endowed Chair – $1,000,000

• Endowed Professorship – $500,000

• Endowed Visiting Professorship – $250,000

University Division Naming Opportunities

• Business Division – $2,000,000

• Education & Humanities – $1,000,000

• Civic & Liberal Arts – $750,000

• Science & Technology – $750,000

Campus Enhancements

• Dorm Refresh Campaign 2.0 – $125,000

• Pioneer Field Turf – $2,000,000

• Football Skybox Refresh – $125,000

• Indoor Practice Field – $750,000

• Basketball Court Replacement – $250,000

FUTURE FOCUS

Tusculum is preparing students not just for jobs, but for lives of leadership, service, and innovation.

Your support helps advance:

• The Freedom Center, promoting individual liberty, free enterprise, and entrepreneurial leadership

• The Christian Leadership Living & Learning Community, guiding students to live their faith with integrity in private and public life

• Expanded career services, internships, and mentoring

• New academic programs, minors, research opportunities, and expanded STEM offerings

Your Gift Changes Lives

Every gift, no matter the size, strengthens the journey of a student like Madison, Stephen, Jerry, or William. Every act of generosity opens doors, lifts burdens, and lights the way for the Pioneers who follow.

When you give to Tusculum, you do more than support a university.
You change lives. You change families. And together, we shape the future.

Please consider making your tax-deductible year-end gift by December 31.
You can give online at www.tusculum.edu/giving, scan the QR code, or mail your gift to:

Tusculum University
Office of Institutional Advancement
P.O. Box 5040
Greeneville, TN 37745

If you have questions or would like to discuss a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) or planned gift, call us at 423.636.0525.

Thank you for believing in our mission—and in the students who live it out every day. Your generosity helps Tusculum University build a future defined by courage, compassion, and purpose.

Because every frontier needs a pioneer.

Go Pioneers!
Scott Hummel, Ph.D.
President, Tusculum University

Tusculum University is celebrating the legacy of Marion Edens, a distinguished former staff member, with a proposed endowed scholarship that aims to continue his impact on students for generations to come.

During the 2025 Homecoming Alumni Meeting, Jim Owen ’60 and Richard Winant ’69 reflected on the lasting influence of Marion Edens at Tusculum, sharing personal stories that illustrated his deep commitment to students and athletics. Their remarks emphasized the profound impact Edens had on generations of Pioneers through his leadership, mentorship, and service to the university.

Pictured are Ralph Horne ’57, Jim Owen ’60, and Richard Winant ’69. Not pictured: Ken Stiritz ’60. These dedicated alumni have been instrumental in advancing the Marion Edens Scholarship initiative and have long championed efforts to honor Edens’ enduring legacy. Their passion for Tusculum and its students reflects the Pioneer spirit that continues to unite alumni across generations.

Pictured are Ralph Horne ’57, Jim Owen ’60, and Richard Winant ’69. Not pictured: Ken Stiritz ’60.

Marion Edens, a 1932 Tusculum graduate, earned letters on the Pioneer football team from 1929 to 1932 and later served as Tusculum’s athletic director, head football coach, men’s basketball coach, and head baseball coach. In 1983, he was inducted into the Tusculum Sports Hall of Fame. Beyond athletics, Edens was instrumental in student recruitment and financial support, often going above and beyond to ensure students could attend Tusculum.

One alumnus, Commander John Redden ’65, recalled receiving a last-minute scholarship from Edens through his local church, enabling him to pursue flight training in the U.S. Navy. Another alumnus, the late Walter Johnson ’70, shared that Edens personally loaned him tuition funds, further exemplifying his commitment to students’ success.

Institutional Advancement at Tusculum is now coordinating with an anonymous donor to establish a scholarship in Edens’ name, recognizing his lifelong contributions to the university and the community. Edward Roberts, vice president of Institutional Advancement, said, “Mr. Edens made a profound difference in the lives of students. We are honored to support the development of this endowed scholarship and encourage individuals to impact our students with a gift in memory of this distinguished member of the Tusculum family. The donations will transform students’ lives and put them on the path to being career-ready professionals.”

To reach endowed status, a scholarship must raise $25,000. Roberts said generous donations have already been received, but additional support is needed to fully fund the scholarship. The Edens Scholarship has already raised more than $67,000 toward its $100,000 goal, with a matching gift opportunity from Jim Owen ’60 and other donors increasing the impact of contributions.

Dr. David Bow, professor of sport science and a former coach and athletic director, recalled some of Edens’ lighter moments in athletics, including a basketball game against Carson-Newman University where the opposing coach disputed a one-point loss and a game at Lincoln Memorial University where the baskets were six inches lower than regulation.

Roberts noted that the Edens scholarship initiative originated with the anonymous donor, who as a child knew Edens and wanted to honor his lasting impact.

Support the scholarship:

• To donate to the Marion Edens Scholarship: https://giving.tusculum.edu/the-marion-edens-scholarship-challenge

For more information, contact Edward Roberts at eroberts@tusculum.edu or call 423-636-7303.

One of the most joyful traditions during Tusculum University’s Homecoming is the gathering of alumni for class pictures, a cherished moment that captures the Pioneer spirit across generations.

Throughout the weekend, graduates reunited on campus to reconnect with friends, reminisce about their college days, and celebrate the bond that time never fades. Between laughter, hugs, and stories of years gone by, alumni came together to pose for photos that will be treasured reminders of their shared Tusculum experience.

From the golden anniversaries to recent graduates, each group reflected the university’s 231-year legacy of faith, knowledge, and love. These photos stand as more than just snapshots, they represent the strength of a community built on friendship, purpose, and service.

“It’s always wonderful to see our alumni back home at Tusculum,” said Dr. Melissa Bryant, director of alumni engagement. “The class photos are a special part of Homecoming because they remind us that no matter where life takes our graduates, they will always be part of the Tusculum family.”

As the cameras clicked and smiles lit up the room, alumni stood shoulder to shoulder, celebrating their place in Tusculum’s long and proud history. These class pictures will serve as lasting symbols of Pioneer pride — connecting the past, present, and future of the university community.

#WeArePioneers

2025 Homecoming Memorial Service

Each year during Homecoming, members of the Tusculum family gather not only to celebrate traditions and shared memories, but also to remember those who are no longer with us. One of the most meaningful moments of the weekend is the Tusculum Alumni Memorial Service, held this year on Saturday, November 1, 2025, in the Chalmers Conference Center inside the Scott M. Niswonger Commons.

This brief yet powerful ceremony offers a time of reflection and remembrance for alumni, faculty, staff, and friends of the university who have passed away during the past year. The service began with a welcome from Angelo Botta ’75, president of the Alumni Executive Board, followed by scripture and prayer shared by Rev. E.J. Swatsell, Director of Spiritual Life.

As part of the ceremony, the names of each departed member of the Tusculum community were read aloud by Edward Roberts, Vice President of Institutional Advancement. With every name, a bell was rung and a carnation was placed in memory of that individual. Friends, classmates, and family members stood in remembrance as their loved one’s name was called—an emotional tribute to lives that enriched Tusculum’s 231-year story.

Assisting with the floral tribute were Tiffany Greer, Vice President of the Alumni Executive Board, and Donna DeMauro McCoy, Alumni Executive Board representative. Together, their gestures symbolized the enduring connections and lasting impact each person had on the university and on one another.

As 2 Corinthians 8:7 reminds us, “Excelling in faith, in knowledge, and in love.” That spirit of love and gratitude guided this year’s memorial service, a reminder that the Tusculum family extends beyond time and distance.

We remember with deep appreciation those who have passed, honoring their legacy and the indelible mark they left on our community.

We are pleased to shine a spotlight on alumna Kate Kolodi ’15, who is serving her community in a remarkable way in Alaska.

From Tusculum to Skagway

Kate Kolodi earned her bachelor’s degree from Tusculum University in 2015. After graduation, she pursued her interests in the arts and civic engagement, eventually settling in the borough of Skagway, Alaska.

Leadership in Local Government

In June 2025, Kate was appointed mayor of Skagway Borough to fill the remainder of a term following the resignation of the prior mayor.

• She accepted the role after having been an assembly member.

• She emphasized her commitment to collaborative governance: “I’m stepping away from attempting to legislate … the role of mayor is to assist the assembly. I can effectively help the community and our assembly for three months by running effective meetings and ensuring progress is made.”

• During her tenure she chaired or guided major topics such as ethics code reform and municipal meeting procedures.

Creative Roots and Community Impact

Beyond politics, Kate is also known for her artistic work—specializing in murals and creative projects within her community.  Her background at Tusculum in the liberal arts clearly resonates in the blend of civic and creative roles she embraces.

Why Her Story Matters for Tusculum Alumni

Kate’s journey is a vivid illustration of the Tusculum spirit:

• Graduating from a small liberal-arts institution and going on to make a meaningful impact in a far-away community.

• Blending artistic expression with civic leadership, showing that graduates can weave multiple passions into public life.

• Representing the value of stepping into unfamiliar terrain (geographically and professionally) and serving with integrity.

A Note of Congratulations

We congratulate Kate on her appointment and the example she sets. Her story is an inspiration for current students and fellow alumni alike showing that a Tusculum education can be a launchpad for leadership in unexpected places.

Sources and Photo Credits:
Information and images for this article were gathered from KHNS Radio Alaska (khns.org), The Skagway News (skagwaynews.com), and Tusculum University News (tusculum.edu).

Local Entrepreneurs to Appear on National Game Show with Jaleel White

Episode Airs Tuesday, November 4 at 5:00 PM on Game Show Network

Local entrepreneurs and longtime friends Keddrain “KD” Bowen and Cyrus Fees are set to appear on the national television game show Flip Side, hosted by Jaleel White—best known for his iconic role as “Steve Urkel” from Family Matters. Their episode will air Tuesday, November 4 at 5:00 PM (ET) on the Game Show Network.

Bowen and Fees share a friendship and professional history that runs deep. Both graduates of Tusculum University, the two have built thriving businesses located directly across from each other inside The Mall at Johnson City.

Keddrain “KD” Bowen is the founder and owner of Fanatics 101, a leading sports apparel and retail store, and the owner of Mountain Movers Leadership Hub. He is also an author of five books, international speaker, and business coach, recognized for his inspirational story of entrepreneurship and community leadership.

Cyrus Fees is an accomplished entrepreneur, president of the Rotary Club of Johnson City, and owner of Vision Quest VR, in addition to being a world-renowned ring announcer for Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC).

Their shared story began long before their success—when Bowen ran a mall kiosk and Fees worked alongside him in those early days. “What makes this experience so special,” Bowen shared, “is getting to share it with someone who’s been part of my story from the very beginning. From working together at my kiosk to now standing side by side on national TV—it’s truly full circle.”

Appearing on Flip Side was not only a fun challenge but a reminder of how far their journeys have come. “Meeting Jaleel White, someone we grew up watching as kids, was surreal,” said Bowen. “It was an awesome experience and something we’ll never forget.”

A local viewing party is being planned to celebrate the episode’s airing, with more details and the location to be announced soon.

Tune in to Game Show Network on Tuesday, November 4 at 5:00 PM ET to catch KD and Cyrus live in action on FlipSide.

To celebrate this exciting moment, Tusculum University will host a watch party on Thursday, November 13, at 6:00 p.m. in Chalmers Conference Room (Niswonger Commons).

Join us for a fun night as we cheer on Tusculum alumni Cyrus Fees and Keddrain “KD” Bowen on Flip Side! It’s not every day our Pioneers are featured on national television, so come hang out with Cyrus and KD and celebrate this incredible achievement together.

📍 Chalmers Conference Room, Niswonger Commons
📅 Thursday, November 13, 2025 | 6:00 p.m.
🎉 Open to all students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community members!

Tusculum University alumni are invited to come together in celebration of Pioneer spirit and tradition as Tusculum faces off against long-time rival Carson-Newman University on Saturday, November 15, at Burke-Tarr Stadium in Jefferson City, Tennessee. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m.

This exciting matchup offers more than just football; it’s also a special opportunity for alumni to connect with Tusculum leadership, including Dr. Scott Hummel, President of Tusculum University, and the Director of Alumni Engagement, Melissa Bryant, who will be in attendance and eager to meet with alumni supporters.

“We’re thrilled to invite our alumni to join us for this classic rivalry game,” said Dr. Bryant. “It’s a chance to show your Pioneer pride, catch up with classmates, and hear directly from university leadership about the exciting things happening at Tusculum.”

In addition to cheering on the Pioneers, alumni will be able to engage in conversation with fellow graduates, hear updates on university initiatives, and enjoy the electric atmosphere of college football under the lights.

Tickets are available now and can be purchased online at the link below:
🎟️ Click here to get your tickets

Alumni planning to attend are encouraged to wear orange and black and stop by to greet President Hummel and the Alumni Engagement team during the game.

For questions or to let us know you’ll be attending, contact alumni@tusculum.edu.

Let’s fill the stands and show Carson-Newman what Pioneer pride really looks like!🧡🖤
#PioneerProud #TusculumUniversity #TUPioneers #AlumniEvents

Tusculum University proudly welcomed the Greene County Partnership Youth Leadership Program to campus on Friday, October 17, for the 2025 Tusculum Health Fair, an event dedicated to introducing high school students to career opportunities in healthcare and related fields.

A highlight of the day was the involvement of Tusculum alumni, who returned to campus to share their journey in the healthcare profession. As a practicing nurse, doctor, and social worker, speaking with students about their path from Tusculum student to healthcare professional, offering both encouragement and practical advice.

Throughout the event, students engaged with local healthcare professionals and community organizations, exploring fields such as medicine, mental health, physical and occupational therapy, and sports medicine. The Health Fair offered valuable networking opportunities and helped students begin to visualize their place in the local healthcare landscape.

#PioneerProud #TusculumUniversity #HealthFair2025 #CommunityStrong

Tusculum University Hosts Record-Breaking Trivia Night at Pioneer Park

The energy was electric at Pioneer Park as Tusculum University welcomed more than 200 students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members for a fun-filled and competitive evening during Trivia Night 2025.

Held at the university’s baseball facility, the event turned the concourse into a vibrant arena of brainpower, laughter, and Pioneer pride. Teams battled through a series of challenging trivia rounds that tested their knowledge across multiple categories—all in the spirit of connection and friendly competition.

“This event was all about building community and celebrating what makes Tusculum special,” said Melissa Bryant, Director of Alumni Engagement. “It was incredible to see current students interacting with alumni and our campus partners—it truly felt like a Pioneer family reunion.”

Event Sponsor

A special thank you goes to Steve Goad State Farm, the official sponsor of the event, whose generous support helped make the night possible.

Additional thanks to:

• Now Event Group and Chris for hosting and entertainment

• Papa Johns for providing fresh, delicious pizza

• Tusculum Facilities Team for seamless event setup

• Greene County Partnership – Youth Council for their volunteer support

• And of course, our engaged alumni, who brought their Pioneer pride and joined in the fun

Building Tradition and Community

Trivia Night was organized by the Tusculum Alumni Association, whose efforts continue to foster meaningful relationships between past and present Pioneers. The event was one of many recent initiatives aimed at strengthening the bond between Tusculum’s alumni and student communities.

“This was a shining example of what it means to be part of the Tusculum family,” Bryant added. “Whether you’re a current student or a graduate from decades ago, events like this show that Pioneer pride never fades.”

If you missed it, don’t worry. Trivia Night is just one of the many exciting events planned throughout the year.

#WeArePioneers | #TusculumTriviaNight | #TusculumFamily

We were delighted to host Dr. Yosef “Yossi” Garfinkel,

the Yigael Yadin Chair in Archaeology of Israel and a professor at the Institute of Archaeology in the Biblical Department at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, on campus for another presentation. He delivered the talk “Searching for the first biblical kings of Jerusalem: David, Solomon and Rehoboam” tonight to a near-capacity crowd in the Dr. Nancy Moody Lecture Hall of the Meen Center. He made a presentation in 2022 at Tusculum as well.

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