2016 Project Preview for Women of Vision

 Spring is just around the corner at Carson-Newman University. Just as flowers and trees will be budding out in the next few weeks, Women of Vision has been busy planting seeds of new projects all over campus. 

Did you know that Women of Vision received more than twenty project proposals for 2016? To fund all these projects, we would need more than $760,000.00!!!  The word is out: Women of Vision get things done! We've prayed, researched, and discussed all these projects. Here are the top priority projects for 2016.  There are many ways you can help make these projects a reality at Carson-Newman. Perhaps you'll see one that touches your heart.

1. Restrooms in Stokely Cafeteria:

Do you remember those bathrooms in the cafeteria foyer where you probably checked your hair and makeup before lining up for meals in the cafeteria? Yep, they're still the same! And while "retro" may be cool in some instances, it doesn't apply to these restrooms! Just think about it: EVERYONE who comes on campus probably uses these restrooms. They desperately need a total redo, and for anyone who has done bathroom renovation in their homes, you know this is pricey! Our estimate on this project is $20-30,000!

Restroom Stalls Need to be Reconfigured

 Retro Sinks Will be Replaced with Vanity Counter and Sinks

2. Education Department Classroom (Stokely Basement)

Did you know that the Education Department graduates more students than any other department at Carson-Newman?  With new Masters, Education Specialist, and Doctoral students added to the mix, the Education Department in the basement of Stokely is bursting at the seams. At least one of the classrooms is in desperate need of new carpet and magnetic white boards. Check out these pictures. I think you'll agree our future teachers need a better space in which to learn. Current estimate for this project is $7,000. If asbestos removal is necessary, the cost will be even higher.

Magnetic Whiteboards Need to be Installed in this Space

It's Definitely Time for New Carpet!

3.  Psychology Department Classroom in Chambliss

You may remember Chambliss as the old music building, but when the new Music Building was constructed, the Psychology Department inherited the Chambliss Building. This proposal asks for new furniture (tables and chairs) for this classroom. Since every student at CNU takes at least one psychology course, we think this is a much needed improvement. From the looks of these pictures, they might also benefit from a new whiteboard! Estimate for this project is $7,000.

Psychology Department Classroom

4. Warren Art Department Entrance and Foyer

Years ago, the Art Department took over the old Science Building. Although beautiful art is created inside that building, the outside entrance and foyer definitely need a makeover.  A donation has already started the process for some new landscaping, but I think you'll agree that a new entrance and updated foyer would be a much needed improvement. Estimate for this project is $10,000+.

Outside Entrance of Art Building

Exterior and Foyer of Art Building

Other 2016 Projects "In the Works"

• Completion of Fite Administration Building faculty and staff break room and outdoor eating area
• Bonner Center - assistance with purchase of updated IT: software, tablets, laptops and desktops
• Flooring for Student Affairs wing of MSAC
• Flooring for Recreational Services/Student Activities area
• Refurbish Campus Ministries house
• Renovate office space and bathroom in Safety and Security Building
• Donations to: Operation Inasmuch and Campus Ministries S.P.O.T.S. mission trips
• Assist with funding for Swann Balcony Porch renovation
• Assist with funding for complete renovation of Gentry Auditorium

These are just a preview of the many project proposals that Women of Vision has taken on for 2016. All are worthwhile, and all need donations to fund the work. Please consider a donation to Women of Vision for a specific project, or to be used wherever it is most needed.  To give online, please go to this link:

Give to Women of Vision

Carson Newman Continues to Excel

Check out these latest rankings and recognitions for Carson-Newman. We can all be proud of this strong Christian university that continues to engage students in excelling academically while becoming true citizens of the world through servant leadership and community service.

U.S. News & World Report

U.S. News & World Report: Carson-Newman teaching is No. 1 in the South

• Top 10 among "Best Value Schools"
• No. 12 in the South as a "Best College for Veterans"

Princeton Review

Carson-Newman named one of the "Best in the Southeast" for 2016 

U.S. Department of Education

Carson-Newman named to President's Honor Roll for Service 

Colleges of Distinction

Carson-Newman University named a "College of Distinction"

•   University also named a "Christian College of Distinction"

Baby, It's Cold Outside!

Carson-Newman looks especially beautiful with a covering of snow!

Winter at Carson-Newman

Many of you will remember this year and the "Blizzard of 2016."  While your local area may or may not have been affected by the January snowfall, Carson-Newman was closed for several days because of slick roads and lots of snow. The Eagle Alumni Facebook page asked for alumni memories of snow during their college days and received over 40 comments recalling the fun on campus during winter snows. Of course, those of you who are graduates from many years ago, made it very clear that you NEVER got out of class "back in the day" for snow. 

This picture from the 1971 CN Yearbook highlights the dubious campus organization know as the Bluebirds. Check out the short skirts in the snow. It was all about fashion back in the day! The yearbook lists the purpose of the Bluebirds as "absolutely nothing."

Young Women of Promise Mentors Needed

Want a special relationship with a precious young lady?

Have you ever thought about having a more personal relationship with one of  Carson-Newman's Young Women of Promise? If so, WOV may have an opportunity for you!

Several of the YWOPs have expressed an interest in having a "mentor"--someone to lend a listening ear and perhaps provide some guidance from time to time.   

What would a mentor do?

Basically, you would be establishing a relationship with a student.  By sharing your life and career experiences, you may be able to provide guidance or answer burning questions in a student's life!  You might begin with a casual lunch or telephone call to get to know the student.  After that, your mentoring support could include such things as listening to concerns or providing encouragement or advice from "someone who's been there."  You might even provide advice as the student begins searching for a job in her senior year, and your friendship could possibly continue after the student graduates. It's really up to you and the student to decide what kind of relationship would be most beneficial to the student!  Mentoring would not involve giving money directly to the student, although you might choose to support a special cause that the student is involved with, such as a mission trip, etc. This kind of support would be entirely optional and never solicited, only a result of your interest in knowing about your student's activities.

This semester, Young Women of Promise with the following career goals have expressed an interest in having a mentor:

  *   Christian Counselor
  *   Graphic Designer
  *   Media Psychologist or Social Psychologist
  *   PK-3 Teacher
  *   Working with Animals (Biology/Environmental Studies Major)
  *   Attorney (Political Science Major
  *   Pediatrician (Biology/Pre-Med Major)

If you are thinking "What do I have to offer?" - the answer is plenty!  The girls are eager to connect with someone who has "been there" or who simply cares about investing in their college experience. It is not necessary to have experience in the career fields listed above-- all you need is a willingness to participate in the life of a student. If you would like to volunteer for one of these positions, or would like to learn more about the opportunity, please contact Kathy May, WOV Liaison to Young Women of Promise, at kathykmay@comcast.net

Women of Vision Gathering ~  Saturday, April 9         Featuring Rachel Lovingood 

Our 2016 Gathering of Friends promises to be a fun and inspiring event! This year’s annual event will feature Rachel Lovingood as our keynote speaker.  

An author and compelling speaker, Rachel Lovingood feels that God has blessed her beyond measure through her family and friends. She and her husband Jeff (a C-N grad and current Trustee) have been involved in student ministry for the past 27 years, presently serving First Baptist Church in Cleveland, TN.  . 

Rachel enjoys every opportunity to share with women across the country how the Word of God applies to their everyday lives. She uses her sense of humor and practical wisdom to connect daily situations with truths from Scripture. Rachel’s relevant teaching and real faith as well as her fun personality make her a favorite for woman of all ages and stages. 

Be sure to mark your calendars for April 9.  Rachel is challenging and great fun ~ you must not miss this special time to celebrate Women of Vision @ Carson-Newman! 

Don't miss this year's Gathering on Saturday, April 9. More information coming soon to you!

 Read more about Rachel at:

http://rachellovingood.com

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas!

Carson-Newman's campus is buzzing with Christmas spirit as trees are decorated and preparations are made for a festive atmosphere before the students go home for Christmas holidays. 

A "Christmas Tree Decorating Celebration"  was held November 18. Carson-Newman Retirees, Women of Vision and Young Women of Promise members decorated several trees including the huge one pictured below in the MSAC. Carols were sung, and delicious Christmas goodies were shared during this fun event.

 

Women of Vision Christmas Open House

Women of Vision will hold their annual Open House On Sunday, December 6, in Knoxville.  All proceeds from ticket sales benefit Women of Vision campus projects.  For tickets, please contact Leah Smith at lsmith@cn.edu. or call (865) 471-4164.

Susan Fendley Presented with Women of Vision Service Award

Dr. and Mrs. Randall O'Brien Present Susan with Women of Vision Service Award

Susan Fendley was recently presented with Carson-Newman's Women of Vision Service Award for her dedication and commitment to the Women of Vision and her involvement in its campus enhancement projects.  Anyone who knows Susan knows what a dynamo she is for getting things done! As Projects Coordinator for Women of Vision, she has been instrumental in the many campus projects that are evident all over campus.  Her duties include reviewing project proposals by CN faculty and staff, making recommendations to the WOV Council, securing project chairs, seeking funding sources, and monitoring the project progress.  

Susan is a 1968 Carson-Newman graduate, and a University of Tennessee Law School graduate. She is a retired attorney, having worked for TVA for most of her career.  Today, she stays busy caring for her 101 year old mother, and having fun with her five grandchildren. Susan lives in Knoxville with her husband, Archie, and is active at her church as a Sunday School teacher and deacon.  She even headed up the Love Clowns ministry at her church for twenty years, where she had an alter ego named "Rosie" with pink hair and a red nose!

Ruth Graham Visits Young Women of Promise Meeting

Ruth Graham attended a recent meeting of Young Women of Promise.  Ruth, the daughter of Billy Graham, shared her testimony and gave the YWOP members a chance for casual conversations with her.  The YWOP members thoroughly enjoyed her visit, and were blessed by her honest discussion of how God has led her through life's challenges.

Women of Vision wishes all our members a very Merry Christmas and blessings for the New Year!

Homecoming 2015 ~ It's a Wrap!

Saturday, October 18, was a crisp and sunny fall day--a perfect day for Homecoming! The campus has never looked better. The day started with the traditional pancake breakfast, followed by open houses and reunion meetings, and culminating with an exciting football game, where the Eagles prevailed over Newberry College with a score of 27-20.

Welcome home!

The newly carved Eagle in front of the Chitwood Alumni House welcomed everyone back to campus.

Carved eagle at Chitwood Alumni House

Women of Vision's work was evidenced all over campus with several projects showcased. Here's a peep into the finished projects:

Manley Wellness Center

For those of you who remember the old college infirmary, where many of you spent time during your college years when you were sick, you wouldn't recognize the place now! Women of Vision funding paid for new carpet and paint throughout, and reupholstered furniture. Other funding even created a "Relaxation Room" with massage chairs, stress balls, and soothing music. Kathleen Manley wouldn't believe it, and the infirmary is a new place of wellness for students. Pictured are campus nurse and counselors who are available to students.

Pictured: Kim Sexton, Jennifer Catlett, Shannon Tuell

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Baker Building

The Baker Building is used by the ROTC downstairs, and the History and Political Science Department upstairs. The History Department space was in need of some major TLC.  Women of Vision took on this project and created a comfortable faculty lounge (called the Map Room because of the beautiful vintage maps in the room), and a new student lounge. Just look at the difference! Other projects completed in this building are detailed in the list below.

Baker Building (Before)

Baker Building Student Lounge

Map Room (Faculty Lounge)

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Other spaces that received  updates were student lounges in both the Pederson Nursing Building and the Dougherty Science Building, and updated spaces in the Tarr Music Building.  Now nursing, science and music students and faculty have wonderful new places to study and relax. And check out other "before" pics of these spaces in the July blog post. The results are absolutely amazing!

Pederson Nursing Building

Pederson Nursing Building Student Lounge (Before)

Pederson Nursing Building Student Lounge (After)

The Pederson Nursing Building also received a renovated classroom through the efforts of Women of Vision. Because the nursing program has grown at such a fast rate, a larger classroom was needed for nursing classes.

Pederson Nursing Building Classroom

                       

Dougherty Science Building

Science Building Lounge (Before)

Science Building Student Lounge (After)


Tarr Music Building

Both the Green Room, used by students prior to performances and recitals,  and the Seminar Room, a faculty lounge in the music building received needed updates. 

Green Room

Seminar Room

Seminar Room

Updated Restroom in Music Building

Other Women of Vision projects completed during the past year include:

• Bonner Center Service Learning Seminar
• Funding for S.P.O.T.S mission trips
• Funding for 10th anniversary Operation Inasmuch
• Assistance with window coverings for Chitwood Alumni Center
• Butler Courtyard Garden
• Completion of outside sculpture for Dougherty Science Building
• Alumni Hall - three student lounges
• Heritage Hall - student lounge
• Swann Hall - stained glass sidelights on front entrance
• Baker Building - (in addition to spaces featured above) three large classroom renovations, Baumgardner Hallway, Graduate Studies in Counseling Reception Room, updated Graduate Counseling Studies offices

None of these projects could have been accomplished without YOUR support. Thank you to all who donated to make one or more of these projects a reality!

To see more homecoming pics:    https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153690020459467.1073741859.65629604466&type=3

Wanted: Mentors for Young Women of Promise

Want a special relationship with a precious young lady?

Have you ever thought about having a more personal relationship with one of the Young Women of Promise? If so, WOV may have an opportunity for you!

Several of the YWOPs have expressed an interest in having a "mentor" in their chosen field of study.  Since we have many accomplished women in Women of Vision, we thought this would be a great opportunity to offer the members of Women of Vision!

What would a mentor do?

Basically, you would be establishing a relationship with a student whose chosen field of study or career plans line up with your experience.  By sharing your life and career experiences, you may be able to provide guidance or answer burning questions in a student's life!  You might begin with a casual lunch or telephone call to get to know the student.  After that, your mentoring support could include such things as providing an "ear" to listen to concerns or providing encouragement or advice from "someone who's been there."  You might even provide advice as the student begins searching for a job in her senior year.  It's really up to you and the student to decide what kind of support would be most beneficial to the student!  Mentoring would not involve giving money directly to the student, although you might choose to support a special cause that the student is involved with, such as a mission trip, etc. This kind of support would be entirely optional and never solicited, only a result of your interest in knowing about your student's activities.

This semester, Young Women of Promise with the following career goals have asked for a mentor,so we are looking for women with experience or interest in these areas:

 *   Christian Counselor 

 *   Graphic Designer

 *   Media Psychologist or Social Psychologist 

 *   PK-3 Teacher 

 *   Working with Animals (Biology/Environmental Studies Major) 

 *   Attorney (Political Science Major) 

 *   Pediatrician (Biology/Pre-Med Major)

If you are thinking "What do I have to offer?" - the answer is plenty!  The girls are eager to connect with someone who has "been there" or who simply cares about investing in their college experience. If you would like to volunteer for one of these positions, or would like to learn more about the opportunity, please contact Kathy May, WOV Liaison to Young Women of Promise, at kathykmay@comcast.net

Young Women of Promise at Swing Dedication

Women of Vision October News

A New Eagle Has Landed at Carson-Newman!

This  chainsaw sculpture is taking shape atop a tree trunk in front of the Chitwood Alumni House.  The beautiful old tree had to be taken down because it was dying, but the tree lives on with this amazing eagle sculpture. Be sure to stop by at Homecoming to see the finished eagle.

KaTom Holiday Fundraising Event a Huge Success

Kay O'Brien Welcomes Guests

Chef Kenny Burlew at Work

Delicious Bruschetta

KaTom Restaurant Supply was a perfect venue for the Women of Vision first annual  "Holiday Season" event. Chef Kenny Burlew demonstrated how to make easy and delicious holiday appetizers including bruschetta, crabcakes, smoked salmon and cucumber slices, and pastry wrapped brie with raspberry preserves. Even better, everyone got to taste each one! 

Next, Designer Andy Winstead showed everyone how to make stunning Christmas table decorations and beautiful lighted wreaths.  There was even a lesson on bow making (use LOTS of ribbon!)  and strategic use of a glue gun (don't forget to clean up the "glue strings!")

KaTom owner and CEO, Patricia Bible, who serves on the Carson-Newman Board of Trustees, generously allowed Women of Vision to use her beautiful facility for a fun time of food, fellowship, and holiday cheer.  A silent auction was also held with many quality items including a Robert Tino painting, a queen set of Restonic bedding, and a four day get-away at a mountain cabin. Everyone who attended had a fabulous time, and plans are already being made to hold this successful event again next year. 

KaTom Restaurant Supply ~ Kodak, TN

Fifty Shades of........Mixers!

Homecoming Preview

It's not too early to begin making plans for Carson-Newman Homecoming. It's Saturday, October 17, and this year's theme is "Celebration of Nations." Be sure to stop by the Women of Vision Showcases listed below:

WOMEN OF VISION SHOWCASE TOUR

•

Baker Building Classrooms and Faculty Lounge

9 - 10:30 a.m. (Program begins at 9:30 a.m.)

Baker Building, Second Floor

•

Kathleen Manley Wellness Center

11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Kathleen Manley Wellness Center

•

Pedersen Nursing Classroom

11 a.m. – 1 p.m. (Program begins at 11:15 a.m.)

Hannah Hylton Pedersen Nursing Building

Look for the amazing before and after pictures at these sites.  Your donations to Women of Vision help make these dreams a reality! And stop by the Women of Vision tent on Henderson Lawn to see us!

Hope to see you at Homecoming!