On this episode of SWU Soul Stories, Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff, Andrew Beckwith, sits down with special guest and chapel speaker, Claire Culwell. Claire Culwell is an abortion survivor with a miraculous story. When her mother became pregnant at age 13, she had an abortion, but weeks later realized she was still pregnant. It turns out she had had twins, and only one of the fetuses was aborted, leaving Claire as a survivor. Claire’s mother gave birth to her, and Claire was adopted shortly after. Today, Claire shares her miracle testimony nationally and internationally for churches, fundraising banquets, and college events. She has also been featured in the national media on Fox News and many other news outlets. To purchase her book go to: https://amzn.to/3v54YnH As always you can find out what's happening on SWU's campus at www.swu.edu.   Find everything Alumni related including links to the new online store at https://linktr.ee/SWUAlumni. Southern Wesleyan University was originally established in 1906 as the Wesleyan Methodist Bible Institute whose mission was to develop Christian character in its students while giving thorough intellectual training. Now, a private, four year Christian university, Southern Wesleyan University is committed to providing liberal arts and professional education. In addition, we are proud to be an institution of The Wesleyan Church, a worldwide body of evangelical Protestant believers. Though our name has changed over the years, our mission—to be a Christian community of learners that recognizes God as the source of all truth and wisdom—has remained.

Mr. Rosco Campbell, Class of 1975, taught for 40 years in Anderson School District 4 in Pendleton, SC. He also served as an athletics official for many of those years and was inducted into the South Carolina Basketball Officials Hall of fame in 2015. He was among the first group of African Americans to attend Southern Wesleyan in the 70’s and in 2020, this group came together to form the Black Alumni Network in order to reconnect and give back to the school that had affected them so deeply. “We still had loyalty to the University, but we hadn’t been doing the things we should’ve been doing as alumni. So, when we got together during Covid, we started talking about how Central Wesleyan had impacted our lives and how it molded us into who we were and how it shaped us for our careers…We decided we needed to take that shared experience among ourselves and share it back with the university and the students there now. We want them to see what the future looks like for them.” There is no better way to show your loyalty to SWU than by making a gift during this week of giving. Help us reach our goal of $45,000 for student scholarships this week at https://www.swu.edu/giving/week-of-giving-2023/.

Mrs. Wanda Whitener (Young), Class of 1973, served as a healthcare administrator for several hospitals in upstate South Carolina during her career. Her life was impacted by a full scholarship offer made in person by Dr. Paul Wood and Mr. Sam Parker at her high school’s awards ceremony. She and her husband, Ken, met during their time at Southern Wesleyan. When asked why she gives back to SWU Wanda said, “All of my success in my life and career started with getting that college education and getting my degree. It opened doors for me. It opened doors for Ken. That was life changing for us and we can do it now for young people.” You can help us create life changing moments for students by partnering with us during this week of giving to help us raise $45,000 for student scholarships. Go to https://www.swu.edu/giving/week-of-giving-2023/ to impact a life today.

Mrs. Janene Bryson (Jennings), 1971-75, worked as a nurse in various capacities following her time at Southern Wesleyan. With a deep family commitment to Wesleyan education including a father, Lowell Jennings, who served as chair of the SWU Board of Trustees for decades, Janene’s path to Southern Wesleyan was clear. As a student, she was able to continue friendships from her youth group from Gastonia Wesleyan and create even more. When asked why she gives to SWU Janene said, “I mentioned the Christian higher education legacy and I caught that vision from my parents. I was so happy with my time there and thrilled with my sons’ time there. Life is hard no matter when or where you are living it, but I have found it easier when you are surrounded by Christian friends and family.” You can be a part of the SWU Legacy by joining with us during this week of giving to raise $45,000 for student scholarships. An investment that has eternal value. Help us leave a legacy by giving at https://www.swu.edu/giving/week-of-giving-2023/ today.

Dr. Amber James, Class of 2004, currently serves as an Assistant Professor of Music, directs Student Productions, and will soon be the chairperson of the Music Department at Southern Wesleyan University. She is also a current student in the Masters of Counseling Psychology program. With parents and grandparents who were ministers in the Wesleyan Church, Dr. James understood the importance of a Christian education. She first came to SWU as a young person competing in Teens N Talents competitions to earn scholarship money and eventually came as a student in 2000. Her time being involved in student productions and 3 years on summer ministry teams deeply influenced her life and helped her make life-long friendships. When asked why she gives to SWU, Dr. James said, “The biggest reason I give to student productions is because I want my kids to have all that they need to make our productions the top quality that they can be. I feel strongly that I should be a part of that because people did it for me when I was a student here. People invested their time and money so that I could have those things so it’s just a way that I can pay it forward and lead by example.” Join Dr. James and others in helping us pay it forward during this week of giving to ensure that the next generation can experience the difference that Southern Wesleyan can make in their lives. Go to https://www.swu.edu/giving/week-of-giving-2023/ to make your gift today.

Deborah Rhodes('04) joined me to talk about her experience traveling with From the Heart and The Difference on SWU Summer Ministry Teams.  She shared stories from different camps and how the friendships are still strong to this day.  There is something about traveling in a van with college students all summer.  We also talked about the upcoming Ministry Team Reunion on March 25 at Southern Wesleyan as part of Little Mermaid Weekend.   The Ministry Team Reunion starts with lunch in the cafeteria at noon, followed by the 2 pm showing of the Little Mermaid, and a reception/mixer following the show in the old church fellowship hall. Here's the link to the Facebook Event Page for the Ministry Team Reunion.  You can register and pay here.  As always you can find out what's happening on SWU's campus at www.swu.edu.   Find everything Alumni related including links to the new online store at https://linktr.ee/SWUAlumni. Southern Wesleyan University was originally established in 1906 as the Wesleyan Methodist Bible Institute whose mission was to develop Christian character in its students while giving thorough intellectual training. Now, a private, four year Christian university, Southern Wesleyan University is committed to providing liberal arts and professional education. In addition, we are proud to be an institution of The Wesleyan Church, a worldwide body of evangelical Protestant believers. Though our name has changed over the years, our mission—to be a Christian community of learners that recognizes God as the source of all truth and wisdom—has remained.

Ricco Booker('99) currently serves with the Upstate Fatherhood Coalition helping fathers reengage in the lives of their children.  On this episode, Ricco shares about his recruitment to Southern Wesleyan and his time here playing basketball and baseball.  Ricco achieved many athletic accolades while also being a big part of the campus community here at SWU.  He shared in the February 15th chapel as part of our Legacy series which you can listen to here.  It was amazing to catch up with Ricco and hear about what God is doing in his life and community.   As always you can find out what's happening on SWU's campus at www.swu.edu.   Find everything Alumni related including links to the new online store at https://linktr.ee/SWUAlumni. Southern Wesleyan University was originally established in 1906 as the Wesleyan Methodist Bible Institute whose mission was to develop Christian character in its students while giving thorough intellectual training. Now, a private, four year Christian university, Southern Wesleyan University is committed to providing liberal arts and professional education. In addition, we are proud to be an institution of The Wesleyan Church, a worldwide body of evangelical Protestant believers. Though our name has changed over the years, our mission—to be a Christian community of learners that recognizes God as the source of all truth and wisdom—has remained.

Former SWU basketball and baseball player Ricco Booker returned to campus to share in chapel as part of this semester's Legacy series.  Ricco shared with students the ingredients to leaving a great legacy and the people who have helped him build his own.   As always you can find out what's happening on SWU's campus at www.swu.edu.   Find everything Alumni related including links to the new online store at https://linktr.ee/SWUAlumni. Southern Wesleyan University was originally established in 1906 as the Wesleyan Methodist Bible Institute whose mission was to develop Christian character in its students while giving thorough intellectual training. Now, a private, four year Christian university, Southern Wesleyan University is committed to providing liberal arts and professional education. In addition, we are proud to be an institution of The Wesleyan Church, a worldwide body of evangelical Protestant believers. Though our name has changed over the years, our mission—to be a Christian community of learners that recognizes God as the source of all truth and wisdom—has remained.

On February 8, 2023, something happened following the 10 am chapel service at Asbury University in Wilmore, Kentucky.  Students remained after chapel ended to pray, confess, weep, and worship.  It has continued for over a week.  This morning, Asbury announced plans for moving forward as they seek the Lord's guidance.  Over the weekend, a group of 14 from Southern Wesleyan drove to Asbury to see for themselves this thing that God was doing.  On this episode, Heath Mullikin sits down with Global Engagement Director, Barry Van Steenburg, along with students Barry Van Steenburg III, Jay Drury, Alicia Brosco, and Sarah Watson to talk about why they went, what they experienced, and their hopes and prayers for revival at SWU.  You will hear the hearts of these students who want nothing more than to see our campus transformed by the Holy Spirit.  God has already been at work and we are praying for more!  To stay up to date with what's happening at Asbury you can go to this link.  As always you can find out what's happening on SWU's campus at www.swu.edu.   Find everything Alumni related including links to the new online store at https://linktr.ee/SWUAlumni. Southern Wesleyan University was originally established in 1906 as the Wesleyan Methodist Bible Institute whose mission was to develop Christian character in its students while giving thorough intellectual training. Now, a private, four year Christian university, Southern Wesleyan University is committed to providing liberal arts and professional education. In addition, we are proud to be an institution of The Wesleyan Church, a worldwide body of evangelical Protestant believers. Though our name has changed over the years, our mission—to be a Christian community of learners that recognizes God as the source of all truth and wisdom—has remained.

Kerri Smith(Trogdon '98) serves in Starr, NC teaching students with visual impairments for Randolph County Schools.  She has served in the same district for 25 years!  Kerri and her husband, Roger, have also served in their local churches helping with youth ministry and are heavily involved with Victory Mountain Camp in Sophia, NC.  In this interview, Kerri talks about her journey to SWU, the life long friends she made while here, her 3 summers on ministry teams, and life after graduation.   Find everything Alumni related including links to the new online store at https://linktr.ee/SWUAlumni. Southern Wesleyan University was originally established in 1906 as the Wesleyan Methodist Bible Institute whose mission was to develop Christian character in its students while giving thorough intellectual training. Now, a private, four year Christian university, Southern Wesleyan University is committed to providing liberal arts and professional education. In addition, we are proud to be an institution of The Wesleyan Church, a worldwide body of evangelical Protestant believers. Though our name has changed over the years, our mission—to be a Christian community of learners that recognizes God as the source of all truth and wisdom—has remained.

LeCheryl Smith Coleman('96) returned to campus to speak in chapel as part of our Legacy series.  You listen to her message here.  She joined me to talk about her journey to SWU, the people who impacted her life, her time as a basketball coach, her call to ministry, and her current work as the Head of Schools at Legacy Early College in Greenville.  You can find out more about their mission here. Find everything Alumni related including links to the new online store at https://linktr.ee/SWUAlumni. Southern Wesleyan University was originally established in 1906 as the Wesleyan Methodist Bible Institute whose mission was to develop Christian character in its students while giving thorough intellectual training. Now, a private, four year Christian university, Southern Wesleyan University is committed to providing liberal arts and professional education. In addition, we are proud to be an institution of The Wesleyan Church, a worldwide body of evangelical Protestant believers. Though our name has changed over the years, our mission—to be a Christian community of learners that recognizes God as the source of all truth and wisdom—has remained.

This semester our chapel theme is Legacy and several alumni will be coming back to share their stories and how God is working in their lives.  LeCheryl Smith Coleman('96 ) shared about her journey to SWU and the people who influenced her the most during her time here.  LeCheryl is the Head of Schools for Legacy Early College in Greenville. Find out more about their mission at https://www.legacyearlycollege.org/. Find everything Alumni related including links to the new online store at https://linktr.ee/SWUAlumni. Southern Wesleyan University was originally established in 1906 as the Wesleyan Methodist Bible Institute whose mission was to develop Christian character in its students while giving thorough intellectual training. Now, a private, four year Christian university, Southern Wesleyan University is committed to providing liberal arts and professional education. In addition, we are proud to be an institution of The Wesleyan Church, a worldwide body of evangelical Protestant believers. Though our name has changed over the years, our mission—to be a Christian community of learners that recognizes God as the source of all truth and wisdom—has remained.

Pastor Barry Cauthren('98) has served congregations in Indiana, South Carolina, North Carolina, Delaware, and currently serves as the Lead Pastor of Awakening Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado.  On this podcast, Barry talks about his journey to Southern Wesleyan, his time in Colorado, and the work that God has been doing in his heart.  You can find out more about what God is doing at Awakening Church at https://yourawakening.org/ .  He and his wife, Heather, have 3 sons. Find everything Alumni related including links to the new online store at https://linktr.ee/SWUAlumni. Southern Wesleyan University was originally established in 1906 as the Wesleyan Methodist Bible Institute whose mission was to develop Christian character in its students while giving thorough intellectual training. Now, a private, four year Christian university, Southern Wesleyan University is committed to providing liberal arts and professional education. In addition, we are proud to be an institution of The Wesleyan Church, a worldwide body of evangelical Protestant believers. Though our name has changed over the years, our mission—to be a Christian community of learners that recognizes God as the source of all truth and wisdom—has remained.

Makala Hall is a Special Education major from High Point, NC who is also pursuing his Wesleyan Minister's license.  She, along with other Kern Scholarship students, attended the 2023 Wesleyan Pastor's Gathering in Orlando, Florida to serve in various ways.  Makala found herself serving in the kids area which was right up her alley.  On this podcast, Makala talk about her calling in life and how she wants to help churches become more accessible to special needs students and families.   For one stop for all your alumni needs and to get the latest SWU gear head over to https://linktr.ee/SWUAlumni. Southern Wesleyan University was originally established in 1906 as the Wesleyan Methodist Bible Institute whose mission was to develop Christian character in its students while giving thorough intellectual training. Now, a private, four year Christian university, Southern Wesleyan University is committed to providing liberal arts and professional education. In addition, we are proud to be an institution of The Wesleyan Church, a worldwide body of evangelical Protestant believers. Though our name has changed over the years, our mission—to be a Christian community of learners that recognizes God as the source of all truth and wisdom—has remained.

On October 28, 2022 Southern Wesleyan University held it's annual Presidential Gala.  Newly inaugurated President, Dr. William Barker, shared the 4 foundational elements we want to be known for as a Christian University.   We announced new alumni benefits including a free will service:  https://giftwise.com/swu A discount for internet filtering and protection through Covenant Eyes:  https://coveyes.com/SWU And a 20% discount for graduates who want to get their online Master's at SWU.  That discount increases to 25% if you begin your Master's, including the new Master's in Counseling Pschology, within a year of graduation. Don't forget about the SWU Flex Ministry Program:  www.swu.edu/flex. The One Link for everything Alumni related:  https://linktr.ee/SWUAlumni Make sure to follow SWU Alumni on social media for updates on former classmates, celebrations of accomplishments, what's going on in Central, SC and to tell us your story at: www.facebook.com/swualumni/ www.instagram.com/swu_alumni/?hl=en twitter.com/swu_alumni www.linkedin.com/groups/12316286/. You can also access great alumni benefits at: www.swu.edu/alumni-and-friends/added-values/.

On October 28, Dr. William Barker was inaugurated as the new President of Southern Wesleyan University.  In his inaugural address, he shared his vision for Southern Wesleyan and Christian higher education.   We announced new alumni benefits including a free will service:  https://giftwise.com/swu A discount for internet filtering and protection through Covenant Eyes:  https://coveyes.com/SWU And a 20% discount for graduates who want to get their online Master's at SWU.  That discount increases to 25% if you begin your Master's, including the new Master's in Counseling Pschology, within a year of graduation. Don't forget about the SWU Flex Ministry Program:  www.swu.edu/flex. The One Link for everything Alumni related:  https://linktr.ee/SWUAlumni Make sure to follow SWU Alumni on social media for updates on former classmates, celebrations of accomplishments, what's going on in Central, SC and to tell us your story at: www.facebook.com/swualumni/ www.instagram.com/swu_alumni/?hl=en twitter.com/swu_alumni www.linkedin.com/groups/12316286/. You can also access great alumni benefits at: www.swu.edu/alumni-and-friends/added-values/.

I recently sat down with Rev. Randy Garner to talk about his time at SWU, planting Christ Community Church in Virginia, and his transition to being a member of the Dirt Roads Network Team.  The Dirt Roads Network is committed to church revitalization and much of their ministry is with rural churches.  You can find out more about their mission at their website:  https://www.dirtroadsnetwork.com/. Join us for Warrior Homecoming 2023 on October 7-8.  Get all the details here. We announced new alumni benefits including a free will service:  https://giftwise.com/swu A discount for internet filtering and protection through Covenant Eyes:  https://coveyes.com/SWU And a 20% discount for graduates who want to get their online Master's at SWU.  That discount increases to 25% if you begin your Master's, including the new Master's in Counseling Pschology, within a year of graduation. Don't forget about the SWU Flex Ministry Program:  www.swu.edu/flex. The One Link for everything Alumni related:  https://linktr.ee/SWUAlumni Make sure to follow SWU Alumni on social media for updates on former classmates, celebrations of accomplishments, what's going on in Central, SC and to tell us your story at: www.facebook.com/swualumni/ www.instagram.com/swu_alumni/?hl=en twitter.com/swu_alumni www.linkedin.com/groups/12316286/. You can also access great alumni benefits at: www.swu.edu/alumni-and-friends/added-values/.

On this episode of SWU Soul Stories, Heath Mullikin chats with freshman Ryan Hughes about the podcast he is launching this fall with some other students.  Ryan shares about his call to ministry, his journey to SWU, the purpose behind the podcast, and much more.  Stay tuned for details about their launch and how you can support "Words for a Warrior." We also announced new alumni benefits including a free will service:  https://giftwise.com/swu A discount for internet filtering and protection through Covenant Eyes:  https://coveyes.com/SWU And a 20% discount for graduates who want to get their online Master's at SWU.  That discount increases to 25% if you begin your Master's, including the new Master's in Counseling Pschology, within a year of graduation. Don't forget about the SWU Flex Ministry Program:  www.swu.edu/flex. The One Link for everything Alumni related:  https://linktr.ee/SWUAlumni Make sure to follow SWU Alumni on social media for updates on former classmates, celebrations of accomplishments, what's going on in Central, SC and to tell us your story at: www.facebook.com/swualumni/ www.instagram.com/swu_alumni/?hl=en twitter.com/swu_alumni www.linkedin.com/groups/12316286/. You can also access great alumni benefits at: www.swu.edu/alumni-and-friends/added-values/.

On this episode, I talk with Kristyn Dees, class of 2006, about her decision to run this year's Boston Marathon to honor her father who was recently diagnosed with early-onset dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.  Her father, Dad, graduated in 1980 while a brother, Daniel, graduated in 2018.  SWU has been a big part of their family's lives and we want to support them during this journey.  You can stay up to date by following their family blog at www.deesdays.com.  They have also created a Facebook Page.  Below you will find a support letter that Kristyn has sent out along with links on how to give.   Dan Dees is my dad. Florida native, who grew up attending Park Place Wesleyan Church in Pinellas Park. Central Wesleyan College graduate, class of 1980. Some of you may have known him by the nickname, “Funky Dan.” Lover of Christ, music, fun, Judy Smith (now Dees), basketball, and trouble--not necessarily in that order. Two of his kids followed in his footsteps by graduating from Southern Wesleyan University. Myself (class of 2006) and Daniel (class of 2018). All four of his kids follow in his footsteps by pursuing of a life built on the faith he instilled in us. By giving back to our communities. By doing what we can, when we can. Recently, our family has begun to share that Dan (dad) was diagnosed with early-onset dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. His symptoms have been progressing over the last seven years, but he continues to hold on to his good humor and concern for those around him. We cherish each day we have with him even as we grieve the gentle yet steady loss of his memories. I care a lot about my dad’s life and legacy. In his honor, I am running in the 126th Boston Marathon this April as a charity runner for Team End ALZ. I have a goal to raise over $20,000 for Alzheimer's research, advocacy, and care through the Alzheimer’s Association. Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia are a growing epidemic in our world. No one seems to know exactly why or how dementia presents itself in some people and not others. Most of the time, I feel helpless in the face of this disease. Raising money and running this marathon (my first ever) make me feel like for once, I am fighting back. Fighting for my dad. For a cure. I am writing to ask for your help. Would you be willing to join me in the fight against Alzheimer’s? I need an army of individuals willing to make a one-time, tax-deductible donation to this race in honor of my dad. Please help me reach my goal. It would mean so much. Kristyn Dees (864) 684-9610 kristyndees@gmail.com

Southern Wesleyan University has named Dr. William D. Barker as the University’s 19th president, following Dr. William C. Crothers, who serves as Interim President since Dr. Todd Voss retired in June 2021. Southern Wesleyan University’s Board of Trustees unanimously voted to approve Dr. Barker, who will begin his presidency on July 25, 2022.  In this episode, Alumni Director Heath Mullikin sat down with Dr. Barker to share his story with the SWU community.  Read the full article here or watch the interview on Facebook.  Stay tuned for our Warrior Homecoming 2022 Announcement! Get all your SWU Alumni news and information at this link.