Meet the legends of Lipscomb University.
Honoring staff, faculty, and administrators whose Christian faith, dedication, service, contributions and accomplishments created a campus presence and legacy that is legendary in the advancement of the mission and unfolding of the history of Lipscomb University.
Induction Year 1998 | Faculty
He came to Lipscomb in 1941 to study medicine. But after years as a paratrooper in World War II, he returned in 1946 to study something he loved − music. Graduating in 1948, he stayed at Lipscomb as choral director, and in 1976 became drama program director. While perhaps best remembered for leading daily chapel, singing, his influence was far greater as he redefined excellence for his students and drew from them latent talents that became remarkable skills. Most importantly, generations of students gained an appreciation for communing with the Lord in worship they would not have had without the loving guidance of Buddy Arnold.
Induction Year, 1998 | Faculty
She may never have stood in the pulpit, but few influenced the music of worship among churches of Christ in the 20th century more than Irma Lee Batey (’18). As music department chair from 1946 until retiring in 1963 and from 1968–70, she taught young men to lead singing in worship. “Teacher” wrote a column on church music for the Gospel Advocate, wrote several books on church music, among them, Sacred Songs for Children and Vitalizing Worship. She directed the Song Leaders’ Workshop at the annual lectureship. She will always be remembered for her compassion, her dedication to improving congregational singing, and her love for the church.
Induction Year, 1998 | Faculty/Administrator
Batsell Baxter served Lipscomb twice as president, called each time to bring peace to a campus in turmoil. Quiet and unassuming, he pursued his work with zeal and confidence. He won the confidence of others with his devotion to truth, his humility, facile comment, quick humor, deep personal faith, and firmness of purpose. He launched the Lipscomb Expansion Program that would elevate the school to senior college status. In the final years of his life he served as Bible department chair and taught his classes on the day of his death in 1956, culminating a life spent in selfless service to God.
Induction Year, 1998 | Faculty
Batsell Barrett Baxter was a budding athlete at age 16 when his father became the Lipscomb president. A city tennis champion, Batsell Barrett also played basketball at Abilene Christian College. There he was encouraged to focus on preaching and the gospel became his life. He became speech department chair at Lipscomb in 1945, then succeeded his father as Bible department chair in 1956 and remained until his death in 1982. Described as the most-loved minister in the church, Dr. Baxter was noted for his humility, gentleness, sincerity, honesty, integrity and compassion. But those who knew him best described him fully in two words: Christ-like.
Induction Year, 2000 | Faculty
Dr. Berry brought more than a reputation for academic brilliance to Lipscomb when she joined the faculty in 1955: she brought the unusual ability to teach both mathematics and English effectively. Focusing on instruction in English, she demanded the same excellence from herself as she did from her students, while instilling in them her love for literature and creative writing. Her quiet yet efficient manner taught patience and endurance, and her service outside the classroom further demonstrated her love for her Lord. She advanced to the rank of professor and was appointed chair of the Department of English and Director of Teacher Education in 1980. She retired in 1990.
Induction Year, 2002 | Faculty/Administrator
Obsessed with the desire for education, H. Leo Boles came to the Nashville Bible School because the train ticket to Nashville was cheaper than his preferred choice. But after graduating from Nashville Bible School in 1907, Boles remained associated through 1938 with the school that became David Lipscomb College. He served two terms as president, from 1913-1920 and 1923-1931, taught Bible, and was a member of the board of directors. A great-grandson of “Raccoon” John Smith, he was deeply interested in the Restoration Movement and prolifically wrote on the topic of pioneer preachers. He resided near the campus until his death in 1944.
Induction Year, 1999 | Faculty
Fessor began teaching at Lipscomb in 1937. By the time he semi-retired in 1982, he was one of Lipscomb's most beloved teachers, and was recognized as the “Father of Intramural Sports” in Tennessee. Through his intramural athletics program, he touched more than 30,000 lives preparing them to be better people, Christians, teachers, parents, and friends. He coached tennis, golf, football, basketball, and baseball, chaired the Department of Health and Physical Education from 1963–68, and coached numerous tennis champions on several levels. He was an elder at Natchez Trace church of Christ for 27 years and attended there for more than 70 years until his death in 1996.
Induction Year, 2003 | Faculty
S.C. Boyce taught Hebrew and economics at Lipscomb from 1929-1933, and history from 1934 until his death in 1954. The father of Lipscomb Legend Eugene Boyce, S.C. Boyce was a preacher, an elder at what was then Lipscomb church of Christ, and a loving husband. He also worked at the downtown post office to supplement his meager Lipscomb salary. Universally respected as an excellent teacher, he made an even stronger impact on students through his wisdom, dignity, kindness, sincerity, humility, patience, goodness and thankfulness. His quiet power for righteousness was calm and steadfast, unshakable. He was in every respect the true Christian gentleman.
Induction Year, 2002 | Faculty/Staff
Eunice Bradley came to Lipscomb in 1954 as director of the News Bureau. With a B.A. in English from Vanderbilt and a bachelor of journalism from the University of Missouri, she taught journalism and was faculty adviser to The Babbler, which routinely won All-American honors under her direction. She was a devoted Bison athletics fan, member of Hillsboro church of Christ, a U.S. Army veteran in World War II, and active in such professional organizations as the Tennessee Education Association and the Nashville Business and Professional Women’s Club, which selected her as its “Woman of Achievement” in 1960. Miss Bradley retired in 1976.
Induction Year, 1998 | Faculty
From his days at the feet of Lipscomb and Harding until his untimely death in 1971, Charles R. Brewer was an avid student of the Bible. Said by some to know more Bible than any other person, it was the way he lived his love for the Lord and shared his faith in meekness and humility that made him magnetic and dynamic. His playfulness and deep love for small children endeared him to them. He brought love into a world of hatred, faith into a world of doubt, understanding into a world of confusion, and tenderness into a world of harshness.
Induction Year, 1999 | Staff
Robert Childress was far more than the custodian for the David Lipscomb Campus School building from 1946 until retiring in 1976. He was one of the reasons students and faculty alike enjoyed coming to school each day. Described as one of the humblest people on campus, he was always courteous, friendly, unassuming, loyal, and dependable. He was diligent and consistent in his work. His smile was infectious, and no task could challenge his positive attitude or his smile. Actions do speak louder than words: By influence he was as effective as any of the most highly trained teachers at Lipscomb.
Induction Year, 1998 | Faculty/Administrator
He came to Lipscomb during the New Deal and became a Big Deal. During an association of more than 50 years with Lipscomb University, no individual played a more defining role than Willard Collins. His work was vital to the success of the Lipscomb Expansion Program. As vice president he built relationships with students and became the brotherhood‘s best-known and most trusted evangelist. As president, the school regained financial stability and acceptance among alumni, churches of Christ, and the Nashville community. He was the “students president,” but was more-- he was God’s man appointed to do His will in this place.
Induction Year, 2005 | Faculty
Gertrude Deese taught sixth grade at David Lipscomb Campus School for 22 years until her retirement in 1979. She was recognized as an outstanding teacher who did much to instill Christian values in her students. Her firmness in discipline encouraged students to develop good work and study habits and achieve their maximum potential. She was joyful in her profession and celebrated the abilities of her students and involvement of parents. The granddaughter of Lipscomb co-founder James A. Harding, who lived in her home until she was eight years old, she observed his love for God and Jesus Christ and reflected that in her life and teaching.
Induction Year, 2000 | Staff
In one sense, Allene Dillingham was the most powerful person on campus--at least to the students. For a quarter century until her retirement in 1984, Mrs. Dillingham worked in the Registrar’s Office, where one of her responsibilities was to determine when students had enough hours to graduate. Meticulous about her work and highly protective of her student records, she possessed an almost computer-like memory of the history of each student who graduated, changed a name, or moved. But it was her welcoming smile, cheerful attitude, and encouraging spirit that captured the hearts of students and colleagues alike.
Induction Year, 2003 | Staff
George Eugene Dixon worked in Facilities at Lipscomb for 35 years. He was a second-generation employee — the son of George and Bessie Dixon, who also worked in housekeeping or maintenance. Mr. Dixon served in various capacities from general maintenance to assistant director. He was highly capable, always prompt, polite, kindhearted and eager to accept additional responsibility, all without complaint. He was an active member of Inner City church of Christ. Highly respected and admired by subordinates, co-workers, supervisors, faculty and staff, he was presented the Staff Award in 2000. His untimely death in 2002 left a void in hearts throughout the campus.
Induction Year, 1999 | Faculty
Lipscomb’s national prominence in NAIA athletics began with Ken Dugan. A baseball player gifted with speed and power, he set numerous records, including batting average and slugging percentage marks of .456 and .824, respectively. As coach from 1960 until his retirement in 1996, Dugan's teams amassed an overall record of 1,137–460, winning two national championships, five Area 5 championships, and 15 district championships. He is author of four books on coaching which are widely heralded in the baseball community. He has been inducted into halls of fame by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, Lipscomb University, National Association of Baseball Coaches, Tennessee Sports, and north Alabama sports organizations.
Induction Year, 2000 | Faculty/Administrator
Personally chosen by David Lipscomb to join the Nashville Bible School Board of Trustees, then to head to the school in 1906, E. A. Elam was more influential on the school’s early days than all except Lipscomb himself. Devoted to preaching, writing, and teaching, he contributed to the Gospel Advocate for 50 years and wrote Elam‘s Notes, a commentary on the Advocate’s Sunday school curriculum. He resigned the presidency in 1913, but the school’s largest gift of that era was given specifically for Elam to teach Bible. He returned in 1922 and taught Bible until he could no longer teach. Funds from the gift were also used to build Elam Hall.
Induction Year, 1998 | Faculty
Proving that dynamite indeed comes in small packages, Dr. Carroll Ellis burst onto the Lipscomb scene in 1949. As chair of the department of speech communication, he was noted for his dynamic, passionate classroom presentations and administrative informality. Even though a gregarious “people person,” he never gave easy marks to students to win affection. His passion for debate and love for his students resulted in excellent teams and debaters who went on to become university presidents, Ph.D.s, academic department chairs and preachers. He made learning enjoyable, and communication students achieved new levels of excellence under his leadership. Dr. Ellis retired in 1989.
Induction Year, 2001 | Faculty/Staff
Miss Gleaves came to Lipscomb in 1947 to teach second grade. In 1952, she was appointed dorm supervisor for the college, first in Johnson Hall, then in Fanning Hall. While she expected her young charges to abide by the rules, she was very understanding of their needs, a help in times of crisis, as well as loyal, caring, and selfless. Her intelligence commanded respect, but her infectious laugh helped to give her dorm a pleasant, inviting atmosphere. The same qualities that affected her residents so deeply also endeared her to generations of Lipscomb Lectures guests, whom she served as hostess for 24 years until her retirement following the summer lectures in 1976.
Induction Year, 2001 | Faculty
Gladys Gooch came to Lipscomb in 1950 as an instructor in Spanish. During her 45 years of service, “Señorita Gooch,” as a linguist and teacher, built a reputation that commanded the respect of colleagues nationwide. Although her focus was Spanish, she also taught French and often taught enormous overloads. With excellence as a hallmark, generations of students benefited from her patience and care. Her Christian example led many to explore additional language studies and careers in teaching. Twice selected by students as an Outstanding Teacher, she was also among the first to be chosen for the John William Baker Summer Fellowship, which recognizes excellence in the classroom.
Induction Year, 1999 | Faculty/Administrator
Max Hamrick is one of the key figures responsible for developing the reputation for excellence enjoyed today by David Lipscomb High School. He joined the faculty to teach mathematics in 1928 and was appointed principal in 1933. During his 16 years as principal, he led the high school to its first accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. From 1949 until retirement in 1956 he taught Algebra I and II, geometry, and trigonometry, employing a unique learning exercise that distinguished his methodology. He was an elder at Granny White church of Christ from 1945 until his death in 1979 and preached by appointment throughout middle Tennessee.
Induction Year, 2000 | Faculty
Lipscomb became a household name in gymnastics because of Tom Hanvey. During a 31-year coaching career, his teams posted an 80–16 dual meet record, including several undefeated regular seasons. His teams competed in 17 national championships, and featured 12 All-Americans, including an individual national champion. He was the 1979 NAIA Coach of the Year, and his achievements were recognized by several other organizations. But Coach Hanvey‘s greatest impact was not in competition, but in the lives of individuals. His gentle manner and sincere interest in students were evidenced in numerous ways, and many of his athletes were led to Christ through his warm, encouraging spirit, and example.
Induction Year, 1999 | Founder
Co-founder James Harding added the enthusiasm of youth to David Lipscomb's wisdom of age. A graduate of Alexander Campbell's Bethany College, Harding shared Lipscomb's belief that the Bible should be taught as an integral part of a much broader curriculum. Known for his powerful oratory, his faith, and his trust in God's providence, he was constantly sought by churches needing located preachers. He refused such request, believing his “Bible school work” to be far more effective and influential in spreading the Gospel. Indeed, the impact of his students’ Christian service and the Bible colleges and schools they have established is beyond comprehension.
Induction Year, 2004 | Staff
Mr. Hassey began working in 1956 at Lipscomb as manager of the Student Center, including food services and concession stands at ball games. When those services were contracted out in 1969, he was placed in charge of the college post office, printing services, switchboard and campus vending machines. Regardless of his role, his life made a positive impact on all with whom he came in contact. He retired in 1975, but later returned to campus to work part-time in the post office. Caring and generous, he was a dependable and loyal friend to students, faculty, and staff alike. He loved Lipscomb and believed deeply in the value of Christian education.
Induction Year, 2005 | Staff
Anyone who met Virginia Hooper knew they had a friend. Working at the bookstore, she met countless students and loved every one of them. She is remembered for her cheerful and joyful nature, positive attitude, and her ability to relieve tension with a look and the warmth of her smile. She answered the question, “What is a Christian,” with the way she lived her life and her love for others. The wife of Dr. Robert E. Hooper, together they sponsored clubs and nurtured students to model excellence and Christlikeness. As one observer noted, “She had a beautiful gift of making everyone feel special and loved.”
Induction Year, 1998 | Faculty/Administrator
Margaret Leonard Hopper (‘37) is best known for her role as elementary school principal from 1946 until her retirement in 1979. She served Lipscomb in many roles: teaching in the departments of Education and Bible, and as a member of the Teacher Education Committee and the Executive Council. But she is best loved for her influence on children: her quiet authority gave direction to impressionable minds, and they knew she loved them deeply. She often helped a child turn tears into laughter. Her love for children, teaching, reading, and nature will always serve as a standard for those who become teachers at any level.
Induction Year, 1999 | Faculty
“He made a pretty good argument for Christianity” is the best characterization of John Hutcheson's life. He established the Department of Art in 1958 and was its chair from 1962 until his untimely death in 1986, serving several years as the college’s only art instructor. The quality of his scholarship and instructional approach was widely recognized, but he was distinguished by an unusual devotion to the personal and spiritual growth of his students outside the classroom. He was an elder at Granny White church of Christ and preached for the church in Schochoh, Kentucky. In all, his only goal was to glorify God. He succeeded.
Induction Year, 2001 | Faculty/Administrator
Economic recovery from the Great Depression and two major campus fires challenged E. H. Ijams as he became president in 1934. In his ten-year presidency, indebtedness was reduced significantly through a major fund-raising campaign. Great strides were undertaken to improve academic quality in the sciences, fine arts, teacher preparation, and Bible instruction. The college and high school libraries were separated. A gentle man and thought-provoking preacher, he helped to organize Central Church of Christ in the 1920s with a goal of practicing “real religion”, combining daily teaching with daily benevolence. His leadership helped to secure Lipscomb’s future and touched many with the message of Jesus Christ.
Induction Year, 2003 | Faculty
Dr. Johnston joined the Lipscomb faculty as assistant professor of chemistry in 1963 and taught until his retirement in 1991. He earned a reputation for excellence through imaginative and innovative teaching methods, motivating students to excellence and teaching them to think critically. He was remarkably successful in guiding students into graduate study, including medical and professional schools. He co-authored numerous chemistry textbooks, advanced to the rank of Justin Potter Distinguished Professor of Chemistry, and exhibited his strong Christian principles in every endeavor. His students often echoed this common refrain: “He was undoubtedly the best teacher I ever had.”
Induction Year, 2002 | Faculty
Dr. Robert Kerce began teaching at Lipscomb in 1946 and, over the next 44 years, brought the study of mathematics to life through his meaningful, practical approach in the classroom. He chaired the Department of Mathematics and rose to the rank of professor, but he also chaired the Department of Physics, was Assistant to the President, Business Manager, directed the Pep Band, was an avid Bison athletics fan, and preached for several area churches of Christ. He was a master teacher whose stern yet gentle manner earned the respect of his students, instilling not only the concepts of applied mathematics but also the ethics of applied Christianity.
Induction Year, 1999 | Staff
“Mr. Jimmy” was everyone's friend. He began working in campus maintenance at age 19 and rose through the ranks to head the maintenance operation before his untimely death in 1992 at age 54. Jimmy knew the health of the campus from its pulse, often recognizing equipment problems as much as by “feel” as by evidence. He kept facilities in good working order, even with limited budgets. But the characteristics that made him legendary were his gentlemanly spirit, the unspoken kindnesses, his equal treatment of people, his unlimited patience, the readiness of his smile, and his devotion to his family and to the Lord.
Induction Year, 1998 | Founder
David Lipscomb completed his education at Franklin College with more than academic preparation and a moral philosophy. He graduated with the idea that a complete education must include a deep, personal study of the Bible. His burning desire to see a Christian school established resulted in the Nashville Bible School in 1891. His farm became the campus in 1903. While he will be remembered for that achievement, his students were forever influenced by the clarity and directness of his teaching, his humility, strength of character, his acceptance of all races as equals, and a life dominated by loyalty and obedience to the Master.
Induction Year, 2006 | Faculty
Anne Lokey taught at David Lipscomb Elementary School from 1965 until 1981. She was hired to teach 6th grade, but her music teaching skills were soon employed in preparing classes to perform small operas. These programs led to major productions created under her tutelage, broadening the artistic horizons of many young performers. Mrs. Lokey assisted in establishing the Orff-Schulwerk pedagogy in the elementary music department, teaching children to use manipulatives and to create beautiful accompaniment and movement with their voices. Students remember her passion for music, culture, and excellence, and her caring, personal attention that exemplified Christ in the classroom.
Induction Year, 2006 | Faculty/Administrator
In more than 50 years of association with Lipscomb University, Dr. Dennis Loyd became one of the university’s most beloved teachers. He taught high school English and journalism at Lipscomb before joining the college faculty, where he advanced to the rank of Professor of English and to chair the department. He served twice as Dean of Students, appeared frequently in dramatic productions, and served churches as a minister and elder. Dr. Loyd easily transferred his love for literature to students, who were warmed by his sincerity, his personal interest in their academic and spiritual growth, and his mentorship. His is a “goodly heritage” that will bear fruit for generations.
Induction Year, 2004 | Faculty
The first child born in Benton County, Tenn., in 1916, Dr. Maiden was unique throughout his life. He preferred reading to farming, and reading led him to the Bible, to baptism and Christian living, despite family opposition. He majored in English throughout his bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees, but also studied widely in history, and it was that discipline which captivated him. He taught at Lipscomb from 1956-1981, giving excitement, life and interest to the stories and people of history while demonstrating the beauty of Christ before his students. Beaman Library’s Maiden Reading Room is named in memory of Dr. Maiden and his wife, Leota, a Ph.D. in English.
Induction Year, 1999 | Faculty
Margaret Meador joined the David Lipscomb Elementary School faculty in 1949. She began teaching fourth grade full-time in 1950 and taught with such unusual effectiveness that when she announced plans to retire in 1975, students, parents, and faculty talked her into staying one more year. She introduced her students to a world larger than their own, drilled them in multiplication, spelling, and grammar, and ignited the spark of interest in literature and history. But her most important influence was the presentation of pure Christianity through the lessons she taught and the loving image of Jesus Christ she lived before her students each day.
Induction Year, 2005 | Faculty/Staff
Dr. Nance was among a core of professors responsible for building Lipscomb’s heritage of excellence in science instruction. He joined the physics faculty in 1956, rising to the rank of professor, and also served as assistant to the president and admissions counselor. He personified excellence yet was noted for his kindness, patience, willingness to help struggling students who wanted to achieve, and his support of Bison athletics. He encouraged students to pursue Christlikeness in his classes and through leadership at Natchez Trace Church of Christ. He was a true “student’s friend.” He retired in 1992, after which he continued to teach as an adjunct professor.
Induction Year, 1999 | Faculty
“Brother Bob” attended Lipscomb between 1927–30, demonstrating excellence in academics, athletics, and music. He was a tenor in the college’s traveling quartets. From 1933 to 1943 he taught at Lipscomb, coached high school and college basketball and baseball, and led chapel singing. He was instrumental in broadcasting chapel services nationwide via CBS network stations. After a distinguished career as a teacher and administrator in Nashville public schools, he renewed his association with Lipscomb. He created the Golden Circle reunion and led a new era of alumni involvement. A deeply spiritual man of integrity, character, and enthusiasm, he truly is Lipscomb's “grand old alumnus.”
Induction Year, 2006 | Faculty
Dr. Netterville taught at Lipscomb for 27 years. He taught high school science, math, and Bible from 1951-1959 except for one year he served as a missionary and teacher in Alaska. He became an instructor in college chemistry in 1959 and advanced to chair the department. A thorough and inspiring teacher, he was also a forward-looking administrator who elevated the importance of science instruction, helped establish Lipscomb’s reputation for excellence in premedical preparation, and led the chemistry department to national recognition through accreditation by the American Chemical Society. Also a minister and elder, he embodied the integration of Christian faith and practice with academic excellence.
Induction Year, 2005 | Faculty
Teaching Bible at Lipscomb from 1945-1962 and preaching for Madison church of Christ from 1952 until his passing in 1984, Ira North embodied John 10:10 – “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” His joy in Christ and his creativity and his energy in serving others were boundless. He personified compassion, exemplified in his work to establish homes for disadvantaged children and for the elderly, and in his service to the inner city. His dynamic preaching and devotion to his mission in life helped Madison become the largest church of Christ congregation in the world. People observed Christ in action in Ira North.
Induction Year, 1998 | Faculty
From setting foot on campus as a student in 1892 until his death in 1965, S. P. Pitman was an almost constant fixture on the Lipscomb campus. He spent his life teaching oratory and Bible to such Lipscomb students as B. C. Goodpasture, Charles R. and G. C. Brewer, and H. Leo Boles. Respected among colleagues as a thorough scholar, he always had time to talk with a student and often helped students in financial need from his own pocket. Free from envy, malice, and possessing a forgiving spirit, S. P. Pitman was a shining light to Lipscomb students, faculty, staff and alumni.
Induction Year, 2001 | Faculty
John L. Rainey taught college Latin and Greek from 1923 until 1940, when Latin instruction was discontinued. He transferred to the high school, where he taught until retiring in 1955. He impressed upon his students the importance of the humanities, recommending a study of languages and mathematics as the foundation of learning. He inspired students to believe in themselves and to choose to do rightly in all circumstances. Also an active preacher, he personified the finest qualities: faith in God, personal godliness, integrity, a willingness to work, servant leadership, and a sacrificial spirit. A favorite maxim was advice for all: “Having been advised, let us strive for better things.”
Induction Year, 2004 | Faculty/Staff
Teaching the unusual combination of English, Chemistry, and Bible-related courses for young women, Mrs. Riedl became one of the most beloved teachers in the history of David Lipscomb Campus School. Colleagues considered her thorough, detailed, organized, firm yet flexible, and a model of high expectations. Students appreciated her compassion, warmth, encouragement, enthusiasm, ability to treat students equally, and interest in their scholastic and personal lives. She recalled wonderful stories from her years of teaching, yet kept her classes fresh and relevant. After 37 years, she retired in 1998 and worked in university Advancement through 2002, a role model in every way.
Induction Year, 1998 | Staff
No one needed a computer with Anne Marie Robertson around. Her remarkable ability to remember names and dates gave her instant recall of such information as who a person married, the names of their children, and new addresses following recent moves. Those skills made her particularly useful to Lipscomb’s University Relations office. Anne Marie began working while a student, then returned after a period of teaching in her hometown of Hartsville. From her remarkably even-tempered spirit, to her kindness, generosity, friendliness, dependability, punctuality and love for her family, Anne Marie impressed all with her Christ-likeness in every circumstance.
Induction Year, 1999 | Faculty/Administrator
J. P. Sanders taught at Lipscomb from 1936 to 1939, when he left to teach Bible at Pepperdine. He returned in 1942 to become academic dean, and in that role led the college to two monumental achievements: senior status in 1948, and accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in 1954 upon the colleges first application. His philosophy of “growing” the faculty by providing advanced education for highly capable students has remained valid through the decades. In addition to his academic role, he preached for the Hillsboro, Belmont, and Harding Place churches of Christ before returning to Pepperdine as academic dean in 1957.
Induction Year, 1998 | Staff
“The first person you should meet is Mary Sherrill.” This advice to a new employee was wise, reflecting the warmth of Mary‘s relationship with coworkers and her depth of influence at Lipscomb. Miss Sherrill came to Lipscomb as a student in 1934 and began working for the college as a volunteer in 1935. She served as secretary to three presidents– Ijams, Pullias and Collins. Upon retirement in 1981, she had worked at Lipscomb more years consecutively than any other person. Her attention to detail, avid love for athletics, warm smile, kind deeds, sage advice, and love for the Lord embodied the Lipscomb Spirit.
Induction Year, 1999 | Faculty/Administrator
His pioneering work in how the brain processes information is legendary internationally. His investigation of word–color interference resulted in what psychologists call the “Stroop Test” and the “Stroop Effect.” Research he began continues among neuropsychologists and others studying cognitive processes and perception. However, his love was teaching Bible. He spent summers in missions, writing books that were ahead of his time on spiritual topics. He was independent thinking, meticulous, direct, self-assured, diligent in teaching and scholarship. During a tenure of more than 40 years, which began in the 1920s, he chaired the psychology department, was professor of Bible, and served as Registrar
Induction Year, 1999 | Faculty
He came to Lipscomb in 1947 intending to stay only one year. That “one year” lasted until his retirement in 1992. In between, Axel Swang built one of the nation’s finest programs in business administration, particularly in accounting. He taught as many as 20 hours per term with classes in accounting, economics, management business law, and business math. He also preached and served at times as baseball coach and bookstore manager. While developing the business curriculum and building the faculty, his first priority remained focused on the spiritual lives of his students and colleagues, embodying the definition of servant leader in all of his life’s pursuits.
Induction Year, 2006 | Faculty/Administrator
Dr. James S. Ward joined the faculty of Nashville Bible School in 1892. A physician, he established the school’s reputation for excellence in the sciences that continues today. In addition to teaching, he served in virtually every administrative capacity during more than a quarter century of service, including two brief terms as president in 1905-06 and 1913. He studied Latin, Greek and greatly appreciated the arts. He loved the word of God and the work of the church. He was a charter member and elder at Central Church of Christ. Mirroring the Master, he was patient, gentle and kind, a man who lived in peace.
Induction Year, 2002 | Faculty
Adults rarely remember their first teachers, but most remember how they felt about school. From 1972 through 1998, three-year-olds and pre-kindergarten students developed a love for learning from their first teacher, Betty Watts. From her they learned the joy of discovery, an appreciation of accomplishment, the importance of kindness, an exemplary work ethic, and an awareness of life’s amazing opportunities. She loved and affirmed every child. Students responded with respect and an eagerness to learn. Her wisdom and encouragement guided parents during a significant transition in the lives of their children. No higher praise could be awarded than this from a colleague: “She was Jesus teaching kindergarten.”
Induction Year, 2004 | Faculty
During a 39-year career that began in 1946, Dr. Whitfield chaired the Department of Education and led Lipscomb’s Teacher Education Program to national prominence. He was instrumental in gaining the program’s first accreditation by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. At one point, more than 40 percent of Lipscomb undergraduates were enrolled in Teacher Education. A true friend to his students, his influence continues today through alumni and the Whitfield Future Teacher Award, which encourages graduates to serve as he did: as a model of gentleness, a builder of faith, a teacher of teachers, and most importantly, as a friend of the Master Teacher.
Induction Year, 2003 | Faculty
Sara Whitten enrolled at Lipscomb in 1932 and graduated in 1934, later earning her first Ph.D. in French from Vanderbilt University. She taught college French and English, and high school Latin and Spanish at Lipscomb from 1946-1960. In 1972 she returned as professor and chair of the Modern Languages Department, retiring in 1985 but remaining active with the university in professional and volunteer roles into the 21st Century. She was a leader in numerous professional organizations. Her intelligence and professional dedication, combined with friendliness and love for her students, her subjects, and her Lord, made “Madame” a remarkably effective teacher.
