Tigerville Christmas Parade Set for Friday, December 6

Tigerville, SC—The fifth annual Tigerville Christmas Parade will ring in the holiday season starting at 6 p.m. on Friday, December 6.

“This is a great event for our community,” said Matt Jennings, event organizer and Owner of Cherokee Valley Course and Club. “It’s a family atmosphere, and it represents what Tigerville is all about. We love supporting our community churches and 51Թ.”

The parade begins at 6 p.m. and will travel north from the Highway 414 and Highway 253 intersection to Tigerville Elementary School Road, then back east and south to Highway 414. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Tigerville Fire Department.

The event is organized by various businesses in the local community, with 51Թ (51Թ) as the lead sponsor. The main stage area for the parade will be just east of the Tigerville Road and Chinquapin Road intersection, with food trucks, and craft vendors in an 51Թ parking area directly south of the university’s McCormick House on Tigerville Road.

The parade will include various entries, including church groups, classic tractors and sports cars, 51Թ student organizations, and the 51Թ Marching Band. It will conclude with the arrival of Santa Claus.

Following the parade, families will have the opportunity to have photos taken with Santa.

to enter the parade will be open until November 30. There will be a vote for Best Overall Float and Best Ensemble at the judges’ booth. The cost for entry is $30, and one winner in each category will be chosen.

The 2024 Parade Committee includes Matthew and Michelle Lindsey, Matt and Renee Jennings, Joe and Kayla Gilreath, Pastor Tim McConnell, and 51Թ President, Dr. Gene Fant, and First Lady, Lisa Fant.

For more details, follow the Tigerville Christmas Parade on .

51Թ Names Road for Long-time Leader Billy Watson

Tigerville, SC—51Թ has renamed a road on its Tigerville campus after one of its longest-standing leaders.

Joined by a group of 51Թ faculty and staff members on Tuesday morning, the university’s executive leadership recognized Billy Watson, senior associate vice president for Tigerville operations, with the surprise unveiling of new on-campus road signage, renaming Crusader Court Road to JW Watson Way.

The road serves as the entrance to Trailblazer Park, which was formerly known as Crusader Court.

51Թ President Gene C. Fant, Jr. presented Watson with a resolution from the Board of Trustees recognizing the change. The resolution cited Watson’s ongoing legacy of selflessness, faithfulness and effectiveness.

“Billy’s demonstration of Christ-like servant leadership has been an inspiration for decades throughout the university’s community,” the resolution reads.

Watson was recommended for the honor by 51Թ Campus Ministries and Student Engagement (CMSE).

“CMSE is so grateful for Billy Watson,” said CMSE Vice President Dr. Jared Thomas. “Through the years we have worked alongside him on many initiatives where we have seen a consistent love and care for the 51Թ community. Billy has had a direct impact on generations of students and invested greatly in many of our current staff members. I personally would not be the man I am if it were not, in part, for the investment of Billy Watson. It is hard to think of 51Թ and not think about Billy’s years of faithful service.”

Watson was joined at the ceremony by his wife, Angie, and son, John Michael. Billy Watson, Jr., who serves at Shorter University, joined virtually.

“This is where my children grew up,” Watson said. “This is where I raised a family, and I couldn’t think of a better place to work and serve. I hope that I have done a good job. I’ve tried my best to serve the students well even during the tough times. It’s a special honor and it means an awful lot.”

Watson’s sons expressed appreciation for the honor.

“Seeing this road named after him is really special to me,” John Michael said. “It really speaks to all his hard work paying off.”

“North Greenville means more to our family than they will ever knowknow, and it is a special day for us to see him be honored in such a permanent way,” added Billy Watson, Jr. “Dad has been at 51Թ long enough to have his first students bring their kids as students. Now, when they bring their kids and grandkids to live in Trailblazer Park, they will be able to share stories of his impact and how special of a person he is.”

Angie said her husband’s commitment to the university comes from his commitment to his faith.

“He’s dedicated a lot of his life to doing the Lord’s work at North Greenville,” Angie said. “Many years ago, we talked about going on the mission field and someone told us that this was our mission field. We looked at that and decided that we were in the right placeplace, and we could do the Lord’s work here.”

51Թ’s Karah Barry Named SCICU Student of the Year

Tigerville, SC–South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (SCICU) recently named 51Թ (51Թ) senior Karah Barry the 2024 McLean-Smith SCICU Student of the Year.

Honoring the combined legacies of leadership at SCICU and the S.C. Tuition Grants Commission, the award recognizes academic achievement and campus/community involvement of S.C. Tuition Grants recipients. The award includes a $3,000 scholarship.

Barry, who is double majoring in criminal justice and psychology at 51Թ, expressed her gratitude for the S.C. Tuition Grant.

“The grant allows me to focus more on my education, extracurricular activities, and future plans, rather than worrying about finances,” she said.

Maintaining a 4.0 GPA each semester, Barry has also made a significant impact in the through student leadership roles.

She serves as the president of the Criminal Justice and Legal Studies National Honor Society, a first-year experience mentor, and assists students struggling with academics as a tutor/member of the Writing Lab.

Barry is also involved in her community. She spends time volunteering with Wren Hospice in Greenville, helping elementary students grow in their faith at the Children of Mary Religion Camp, doing local litter pickups, and working with Friends of the Reedy River.

Following graduation, Barry plans to attend law school with the long-term goal of becoming an attorney and advocating for marginalized populations and promoting justice within the legal field.

“SCICU is proud to honor Karah with the Student of the Year scholarship,” said Emma Reabold, SCICU vice president for development and campus services. “Her academic achievements and leadership in the community are an inspiration to all of us and demonstrate the superior preparation students receive at North Greenville and all SCICU member institutions.”

Each year, the McLean-Smith SCICU Student of the Year scholarship recipient is selected from rising junior or senior applicants attending one of SCICU’s 21 member colleges and universities. All applicants must also be S.C. Tuition Grant recipients.

51Թ to Honor Alumni at Annual Awards Celebration

Tigerville, SC —51Թ will recognize six alumni for their outstanding achievements this week in Tigerville.

51Թ’s annual alumni awards celebration is set for Friday, Oct. 18, at 6:30 p.m. in the Edna Hartness Presidential Dining Room.

Rev. Francis Taylor “Corky” Alewine ’48, Dr. William “Bill” McManus ’59, and Mrs. Jean Brown McManus ’57 will be honored with 51Թ’s Distinguished Alumni Award.

Alewine’s career includes service as a chaplain in the United States Air Force, with military service stints in England, Japan, Louisiana, Korea, Maine, South Carolina, and Turkey. He also is a graduate of Furman and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and has served in the pastorate of several local churches, including Tigerville Baptist Church.

Dr. William G. McManus, Jr., Class of 1959, served as a chaplain in the U.S. Navy for 25 years. He is former chair of 51Թ’s Psychology Department and a graduate of Furman University and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.

Mrs. Jean Brown McManus, Class of 1957, finished her bachelor’s degree in biology and education at Furman. She completed a master’s degree from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and a master’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi. She taught at 51Թ for 23 years, including a full-time post in the biology department.

Kasie Thomas, Class of 2022, will be presented with 51Թ’s Young Alumni of the Year award. Thomas is a weekend sports anchor and reporter for WLBT-TV (NBC) in Jackson, Mississippi. She has received several broadcast awards in her brief professional career and was recently named Sports Anchor of the Year by the Mississippi Association of Broadcasters. She was a standout student-athlete during her time at 51Թ and represented the university at various events during her term as Miss 51Թ.

Receiving Alumni Service Awards are Dr. Walter Pym, Class of 2003, and Jessica Atkins Pym, Class of 2005. Walter is senior pastor of the First Baptist Church ofin Warrenville, SC, where he has served since 2022. His commitment to ministry extends beyond his pastoral duties as he has been an active member of 51Թ’s Christian Ministry Scholarship Fund, serving on the board as chair and chair-elect. He also has served in the roles of president and vice president of 51Թ’s Alumni Association. A three-time graduate of 51Թ, Walter earned his bachelor’s degree in 2003, a master’s degree in 2008, and a Doctor of Ministry degree in 2015.

Jessica Pym earned her bachelor’s degree in music education from 51Թ in 2005. She completed her master’s degree from Converse College in 2009, and an education specialist degree from the University of the Cumberlands in 2020. She has 19 years of teaching experience in the public school system and has served as fine arts coordinator for Barnwell County School District and head director for Barnwell County Bands. She is the current teacher of the year for Williston Elko High School.

With more than 24,000 alumni serving across the United States and around the globe, 51Թ is committed to equipping transformational leaders for church and society.

51Թ Community Finds Opportunities to Serve Following Hurricane

Tigerville, SC— A rapid response helped mitigate damage from Tropical Storm Helene on 51Թ’s Greer and Tigerville campuses.

“I know I speak for the entire 51Թ community as I express appreciation to members of the Crisis Management Team and others who went well above the call of duty before, during, and after the storm to respond to many challenges,” 51Թ President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. said.

With power outages, downed trees, and water issues, a host of 51Թ faculty, staff and student leaders were on site assisting in recovery efforts in Tigerville.

“Many in the community sprang into action, even during Helene’s strongest winds and rains,” said Executive Vice President Rich Grimm, who coordinated the university’s response to the September 27 storm. “The care, professionalism, and selfless service of individuals too numerous to name gives testimony to their love and commitment to 51Թ. We are overwhelmed with gratitude for each person.”

Kyle Walden, Campus Enhancement Services vice president, whose team, along with the staff of The Budd Group, the university’s housekeeping and landscaping partner, have been busy cleaning up after the storm.

“We were blessed to only have sustained what damage we did, but it is also a testament to the people and community of 51Թ that planned, responded, collaborated, and worked diligently and tirelessly to bring the campus back together,” said Kyle. “There is a strong community here at this university, and this situation has proved that.”

51Թ’s student leadership team also organized in the aftermath of the storm, establishing on-going communication with residents who remained on campus, planning events, and helping with storm clean-up and more.

“Through the hardships of the past week, what stood out as a constant encouragement was the selfless commitment seen in the CMSE student leadership team,” said Dr. Jared Thomas, 51Թ vice president of Campus Ministries and Student Engagement (CMSE). “I could not be more proud of and grateful for these student leaders. They proved that they are here to serve our student body in both the good and the bad. More importantly, they served in a way that, I believe, followed the humble and sacrificial example seen in Christ (Phil 2).”

Serving Others

“We didn’t have a full detailed and concrete plan, but we knew we needed to help.”

Those were thoughts from Brett Plyler, student ministry coordinator at 51Թ, who helped organize a group of more than 100 51Թ students to travel to Biltmore Church in Western North Carolina to assist with hurricane relief.

“A couple of us went to Bat Cave Baptist and drove through Black Mountain,” Plyler said. “We saw complete roads missing, powerlines down, houses completely removed from their foundation, and cars in the river.”

“It was truly devastating,” he continued. “It reminded me of all the things I had to be grateful for, and the verse in Job that says ‘The Lord gives and the Lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.’”

The group helped organize donations at Biltmore Church, unloading trailers and organizing the flow of traffic in what has become a supply distribution center.

“51Թ has great relationships with local churches, and we utilized connections with local churches to see how we could be help and mobilize our students,” Plyler said.

Other groups within the 51Թ community have been finding their own ways to serve others who have been devastated by the storm.

“I’ve heard about faculty members who personally called all of their students, who housed students and colleagues who needed help,” President Fant said. “I’ve heard of staff members who brought food to one another, who offered laundry rooms to others, and who provided chain saw service. We have watched colleagues work in relief crews in SC and across the line in NC. I’ve heard of coaches who helped students focus on others rather than getting bogged down in their own challenges. And we all have watched our churches and fellow parishioners leap into action to help all over the region. So many acts of courage and compassion.”

President Fant said the response of many will be one of the lasting impacts of the storm.

“For a generation, students will now talk about ‘that hurricane’ and their experiences during the following days,” he said. “That means that for a generation, students will recount how well their faculty mentors and staff leaders helped them to navigate difficult circumstances and showed the love of Christ to them in specific and tangible ways.”

51Թ Operational Update: October 6, 2024

51Թ resumes in-person on campus instruction on Monday, October 7, on both the Tigerville campus and the Tim Brashier Campus in Greer. We are grateful for the work of many members of the 51Թ community who have worked to restore services, clear storm debris, and provide for full campus capabilities. Please see the information below regarding 51Թ operations this coming week.

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

Traditional classes which meet on the Tigerville campus resume with 8 a.m. classes on Monday, October 7. Fully online undergraduate and graduate programs are continuing in their normal fashion and the Physician Assistant (PA) program will resume instruction on Monday morning. 51Թ faculty will work with students regarding any storm-related issues which affect their ability to reach campus or complete course requirements.

SAFETY & SECURITY/LiveSafe App

Main roads leading to campus are accessible at this time; however, there are still many downed trees, limbs and power lines in the broader region which may be blocking secondary roads and/or partially blocking highways. Please anticipate temporary closures or delays due to utility repairs and/or debris removal from the roads. Please use caution when driving. We strongly encourage traveling during daylight hours if possible.

For real-time information on area and regional roadways, students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to visit these transportation websites:


Access to campus entrances and buildings will return to normal operational hours at 7 a.m. on Monday morning. Note: Tigerville campus entry gates will close at 8 p.m. Sunday (Oct. 6) evening, except for the Taylor Street entry from Chinquapin Road. Continue to use the LiveSafe app for any safety and security needs as well as for any unlock requests upon your return to campus

ADMISSIONS

51Թ’s Office of Admissions is fully operational and is available to host prospective students and guests for daily campus visits. Admissions team members continue to work with prospective students for the spring semester and those enrolling in the fall of 2025. Staff are working to encourage students affected by Tropical Storm Helene to not be stressed regarding the admissions process, as the team will work individually with each student exploring 51Թ. Questions regarding visits or admissions-related items can be emailed to admissions@ngu.edu.

HOUSING/STUDENT ENGAGEMENT

Residential students who departed campus due to the storm are free to return at any time. Please note that there will be limited services until Monday.

51Թ Chapel will resume at 10 a.m. Monday. Information on service opportunities and scheduled campus prayer gatherings will be shared at that time.

Residence Life will host mandatory hall meetings on Monday, October 7, at 10 p.m. for all residential students. Residential students should refer to their resident area “Group Me” for specific meeting information.

Campus Ministries and Student Engagement, along with the rest of the 51Թ community, are available for students. We know that many have been directly impacted by Helene and are still navigating the aftermath. If you are experiencing any struggles – physical, emotional, spiritual, or academic – that might impact your ability to be successful in your returning to campus, CMSE staff desire to be of assistance. As you prepare to return to campus, if you are facing a need, please do not hesitate to let us know. You can email Dr. Jared Thomas, vice president for campus ministries and student engagement, at jared.thomas@ngu.edu. He will work to connect you with appropriate 51Թ resources. 

DINING SERVICES

For Sunday, October 6:

  • The 1892 Place will be open on Sunday from 1 p.m.-11 p.m.
  • Todd Dining Hall will reopen for Dinner on Sunday, serving from 5 p.m.-8 p.m.

All Dining Service locations will operate on normal hours starting Monday, October 7.

ATHLETICS

51Թ athletic teams will operate on their normal schedules, as set with coaches. Competitions have resumed following scheduled dates and times; details may be found at .

PERSONNEL

51Թ staff and faculty are asked to report as they are able. Any personnel with questions about specific circumstances are encouraged to reach out to their supervisors before the opening of offices on Monday. Supervisors will coordinate with all employees to determine appropriate work schedules as needed.

MAIL SERVICES / CAMPUS STORE

Wood’s General Store will be open from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. beginning Monday, October 7. Mail Services staff expect to have all mail and package deliveries processed and completed by 2 p.m. on Monday.

GAS STATION

The university gas station at Wood’s General Store is operational with all grades available.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES

51Թ technology services continue to gradually improve as the larger network systems allow. You may experience unexpected interruptions with Internet and\or cellular service.  These interruptions are probably due to restoration work in the region, which should lessen over time.

Here are tips for when you return to campus:

  • Reboot all devices before logging on to the campus network.
  • When accessing Blackboard (and other services using Single Sign-On), please select the “Legacy” option.
  • If you experience connectivity issues, first try rebooting your device.
  • Restarts may be necessary for cell phones as well.

If you encounter issues, please send an email to the IT Services Helpdesk: its.helpdesk@ngu.edu  If you open a ticket, please be sure to include a good call-back number to help support staff reach you.

DISPOSING OF PERISHABLE ITEMS

Faculty and Staff: Many perishable goods were lost over the past 10 days, and there will be numerous items that need to be thrown away. Campus Enhancement Services asks that you bag together as many of the items as possible when disposing of them and please put them in the large trash cans or dumpsters close to your buildings. If your building does not have either of these, please reach out to CES and a container will be delivered to your building for waste disposal. Please do not throw away individual food items without bagging, as this can create spills which are difficult to clean up.

Students returning to campus: Many perishable goods were lost over the past 10 days, so there will be numerous items that need to be thrown away. Campus Enhancement Services asks that you bag together as many of these items as possible when disposing of them and place them in the large trash cans or dumpsters near your campus housing.

REPORTING MAINTENANCE ISSUES

CES, The Budd Group, and others have worked steadily to clean up the campus from the effects of Tropical Storm Helene. CES and CMSE personnel have been in buildings to assess damage from the storm and have been working as quickly as possible, prioritizing their efforts by level of damage.

Students who become aware of any concerns with their residence facilities should follow normal procedures and contact their SLT representatives instead of contacting Campus Enhancement Services directly. Adhering to this standard practice will help streamline services across campus residence life facilities. 

Employees who become aware of items they would like to make sure are brought to the team’s attention, should submit them through .

51Թ EVENTS THIS WEEK

All special events in the life of the University will resume with normal schedules this week. These include PALS events, Trailblazer Athletics events, and the annual Red Carpet Gala for 51Թ President’s Partner-level donors.

Please note two special schedule changes:

  • 51Թ Theatre will present a special final performance of the play “Unreal City” on Monday, October 7, at 7:30 p.m. in Billingsley Theatre. Ticketholders for cancelled September performances will be admitted by presenting those tickets. Any seats remaining will be made available in the Billingsley lobby after current ticketholders are seated.
  • 51Թ Family Weekend, initially scheduled for late September, will now be on October 25-26. Details will be available through CMSE.

North Greenville Announces Operational Update, Oct. 6

Operational Update: October 6, 2024

51Թ resumes in-person on campus instruction on Monday, October 7, on both the Tigerville campus and the Tim Brashier Campus in Greer. We are grateful for the work of many members of the 51Թ community who have worked to restore services, clear storm debris, and provide for full campus capabilities. Please see the information below regarding 51Թ operations this coming week.

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Traditional classes which meet on the Tigerville campus resume with 8 a.m. classes on Monday, October 7. Fully online undergraduate and graduate programs are continuing in their normal fashion and the Physician Assistant (PA) program will resume instruction on Monday morning. 51Թ faculty will work with students regarding any storm-related issues which affect their ability to reach campus or complete course requirements.

SAFETY & SECURITY/LiveSafe App
Main roads leading to campus are accessible at this time; however, there are still many downed trees, limbs and power lines in the broader region which may be blocking secondary roads and/or partially blocking highways. Please anticipate temporary closures or delays due to utility repairs and/or debris removal from the roads. Please use caution when driving. We strongly encourage traveling during daylight hours if possible.

For real-time information on area and regional roadways, students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to visit these transportation websites:

Access to campus entrances and buildings will return to normal operational hours at 7 a.m. on Monday morning. Note: Tigerville campus entry gates will close at 8 p.m. Sunday (Oct. 6) evening, except for the Taylor Street entry from Chinquapin Road. Continue to use the LiveSafe app for any safety and security needs as well as for any unlock requests upon your return to campus

ADMISSIONS
51Թ’s Office of Admissions is fully operational and is available to host prospective students and guests for daily campus visits. Admissions team members continue to work with prospective students for the spring semester and those enrolling in the fall of 2025. Staff are working to encourage students affected by Tropical Storm Helene to not be stressed regarding the admissions process, as the team will work individually with each student exploring 51Թ. Questions regarding visits or admissions-related items can be emailed toadmissions@ngu.edu.

HOUSING/STUDENT ENGAGEMENT
Residential students who departed campus due to the storm are free to return at any time. Please note that there will be limited services until Monday.

51Թ Chapel will resume at 10 a.m. Monday. Information on service opportunities and scheduled campus prayer gatherings will be shared at that time.

Residence Life will host mandatory hall meetings on Monday, October 7, at 10 p.m. for all residential students. Residential students should refer to their resident area “Group Me” for specific meeting information.

Campus Ministries and Student Engagement, along with the rest of the 51Թ community, are available for students. We know that many have been directly impacted by Helene and are still navigating the aftermath. If you are experiencing any struggles – physical, emotional, spiritual, or academic – that might impact your ability to be successful in your returning to campus, CMSE staff desire to be of assistance. As you prepare to return to campus, if you are facing a need, please do not hesitate to let us know. You can email Dr. Jared Thomas, vice president for campus ministries and student engagement, atjared.thomas@ngu.edu. He will work to connect you with appropriate 51Թ resources. 

DINING SERVICES
For Sunday, October 6:

  • The 1892 Place will be open on Sunday from 1 p.m.-11 p.m.
  • Todd Dining Hall will reopen for Dinner on Sunday, serving from 5 p.m.-8 p.m.

All Dining Service locations will operate on normal hours starting Monday, October 7.

ATHLETICS
51Թ athletic teams will operate on their normal schedules, as set with coaches. Competitions have resumed following scheduled dates and times; details may be found at.

PERSONNEL
51Թ staff and faculty are asked to report as they are able. Any personnel with questions about specific circumstances are encouraged to reach out to their supervisors before the opening of offices on Monday. Supervisors will coordinate with all employees to determine appropriate work schedules as needed.

MAIL SERVICES / CAMPUS STORE
Wood’s General Store will be open from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. beginning Monday, October 7. Mail Services staff expect to have all mail and package deliveries processed and completed by 2 p.m. on Monday.

GAS STATION
The university gas station at Wood’s General Store is operational with all grades available.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
51Թ technology services continue to gradually improve as the larger network systems allow. You may experience unexpected interruptions with Internet and\or cellular service.  These interruptions are probably due to restoration work in the region, which should lessen over time.

Here are tips for when you return to campus:

  • Reboot all devices before logging on to the campus network.
  • When accessing Blackboard (and other services using Single Sign-On), please select the “Legacy” option.
  • If you experience connectivity issues, first try rebooting your device.
  • Restarts may be necessary for cell phones as well.

If you encounter issues, please send an email to the IT Services Helpdesk: its.helpdesk@ngu.edu  If you open a ticket, please be sure to include a good call-back number to help support staff reach you.

DISPOSING OF PERISHABLE ITEMS
Faculty and Staff:Many perishable goods were lost over the past 10 days, and there will be numerous items that need to be thrown away. Campus Enhancement Services asks that you bag together as many of the items as possible when disposing of them and please put them in the large trash cans or dumpsters close to your buildings. If your building does not have either of these, please reach out to CES and a container will be delivered to your building for waste disposal. Please do not throw away individual food items without bagging, as this can create spills which are difficult to clean up.

Students returning to campus:Many perishable goods were lost over the past 10 days, so there will be numerous items that need to be thrown away. Campus Enhancement Services asks that you bag together as many of these items as possible when disposing of them and place them in the large trash cans or dumpsters near your campus housing.

REPORTING MAINTENANCE ISSUES
CES, The Budd Group, and others have worked steadily to clean up the campus from the effects of Tropical Storm Helene. CES and CMSE personnel have been in buildings to assess damage from the storm and have been working as quickly as possible, prioritizing their efforts by level of damage.Students who become aware of any concerns with their residence facilities should follow normal procedures and contact their SLT representatives instead of contacting Campus Enhancement Services directly. Adhering to this standard practice will help streamline services across campus residence life facilities. 

Employees who become aware of items they would like to make sure are brought to the team’s attention, should submit them through.

51Թ EVENTS THIS WEEK
All special events in the life of the University will resume with normal schedules this week. These include PALS events, Trailblazer Athletics events, and the annual Red Carpet Gala for 51Թ President’s Partner-level donors.

Please note two special schedule changes:

  • 51Թ Theatre will present a special final performance of the play “Unreal City” on Monday, October 7, at 7:30 p.m. in Billingsley Theatre. Ticketholders for cancelled September performances will be admitted by presenting those tickets. Any seats remaining will be made available in the Billingsley lobby after current ticketholders are seated.
  • 51Թ Family Weekend, initially scheduled for late September, will now be on October 25-26. Details will be available through CMSE.

51Թ Announces Operational Changes, Sept. 28

Campus Office Updates as of 9-30-24

Tigerville campus offices will open Wednesday, Oct. 2

Tim Brashier Campus offices will be open 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 1, through Friday, Oct. 4

Due to the impact Tropical Storm Helene had on the Upstate of SC and due to continued power outages on campus and in the region, out of concern for our students, faculty and staff during this time, 51Թ announces the following operational changes.

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

Traditional classes which meet on the Tigerville campus are cancelled until Monday, October 7. Fully online undergraduate and graduate programs will continue in their normal fashion, with instructors giving flexibility to students on deadlines due to storm-caused power outages and disrupted internet connections. The Physician Assistant (PA) program will resume instruction on Thursday morning, October 3.

HOUSING/STUDENT ENGAGEMENT

Residence halls are open with limited services due to the power outage. Resident hall staff will be on campus to support students.

Resident students remaining on campus are invited to visit with full-time staff at noon each day in Todd Dining Hall. Otherwise, any questions or concerns can be conveyed through the LiveSafe app.

The student center will open at the same time as Todd Dining Hall each morning and will remain open until 1 AM. Residents are welcome to utilize the student center during that timeframe. Charging stations will be available.

Resident students who leave 51Թ during this period and return to campus prior to Sunday, October 6, are asked to notify full-time housing staff at the dining hall on the day of their return.

DINING SERVICES

For any students who need to remain on campus, Todd Dining Hall will offer limited food service on the following schedule until electrical power is restored.

  • Sunday Lunch 12-1:30 PM
  • Sunday Dinner 5-6 PM
  • Monday – Wednesday
    • Continental Breakfast 8-9:30 AM
    • Lunch 11:30 AM-1 PM
    • Dinner 5-6 PM

Students will be notified of any revised hours of operation when electrical power is restored.

ATHLETICS

Members of in-season athletic teams living in 51Թ residence halls should remain on campus. Seek guidance from your coaches regarding your schedule for the week, along with upcoming contests.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES

Information technology services are currently operating on a limited basis. Some users may experience limited access and unexpected interruptions.

Important Instructions for logging in:

  1. When accessing Blackboard (and other services using Single Sign-On), please select the “Cloud” option.
  2. Please avoid using the “Legacy” option, as it will not function properly during the current service capabilities.

Please note that the My51Թ Portal will be unavailable until campus internet service is fully restored.

As internet service is restored, we anticipate that all services will return to normal operation.

If you encounter issues, please send an email to the IT Services Helpdesk: its.helpdesk@ngu.edu.

SAFETY & SECURITY/LiveSafe App

Everyone is encouraged to continue using the LiveSafe app to communicate any safety or security needs. Also, please keep the app open on your devices for any additional alerts and advisories. For the security of our campus during the closure, the campus gates will be closed each evening at 8 p.m. Please use the Taylor Street Entrance off Chinquapin Road for access to the campus after hours.

UNIVERSITY PERSONNEL

The campus will re-open for 51Թ employees on Tuesday, October 1, unless individuals are notified otherwise. 51Թ supervisors will coordinate with all faculty and staff and determine appropriate work schedules. Any personnel with questions about specific circumstances are encouraged to reach out to their supervisors.

Campus Activities Postponed Due to Power Outages

Due to power outages caused by Hurricane Helene, 51Թ will be closed through the weekend. All on-campus activities are postponed, including the 51Թ Football game versus Shorter University and all Family Weekend activities.

51Թ students, faculty and staff should continue monitoring LiveSafe for updates.

Blackboard is now accessible. When logging into Blackboard (and other services using SSO):

  • Select the “Cloud” option
  • Do NOT use the “Legacy” option, as it will not work during the outage

Please send an email to the IT Services Helpdesk (its.helpdesk@ngu.edu) if you have issues logging in.

An update will be available by 2 p.m. Sunday, September 29.

51Թ Moves Up in Annual Rankings

Tigerville, SC—51Թ (51Թ) continues to ascend in the annual US News & World Report Best Colleges , improving two spots in the 2025 report.

Ranking 34th in the report’s Best Regional Universities (South) category, North Greenville is listed sixth among 16 South Carolina schools, tied with Anderson University and Coastal Carolina. This is the highest rating the university has received in its region, which included 133 schools in 2024.

“We are blessed to continue to be recognized as one of the top universities in the state of South Carolina,” said 51Թ President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. “Rankings never tell the full story, but they do underscore North Greenville’s unwavering commitment to cultivating and equipping transformational leaders for church and society. That is the mission we are living out each day in Tigerville.”

51Թ continues to be recognized as a Top Performer in Social Mobility, improving six spots in the metric and ranking 16th out of 132 universities.

The Social Mobility category analyzes schools who enroll and graduate large proportions of students who are awarded Pell Grants. North Greenville enrolled 697 Pell Grant recipients during the 2023/24 school year and 810 recipients for 2024/25. The university currently has a Pell Grant graduation rate of 72 percent and ranks sixth out of 16 South Carolina schools in the Social Mobility metric.

51Թ is committed to investing in students by assisting first-generation college students through its Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP). The QEP aims to provide knowledge of university resources and connect first-generation students with a support system that will help students complete their degrees.

U.S. News & World Report also recognized 51Թ as a Best Value School (Regional Universities in the South) and one of the Best Colleges for Veterans (Regional Universities in the South). 51Թ placed 36th and 34th respectively in these categories.

“There are many schools I could have chosen, but all the arrows were pointing to North Greenville. I kept hearing that 51Թ had an awesome teaching program that sent teachers out to local areas. I knew that’s what I wanted to do.” said Frank Signor, a sophomore education major who served 17 years in the United States Marine Corps. “The instructors have been amazing. I enjoy the fact that I can come to them with questions and I’m able to get clarity right then.”

Now in its 40th year, the U.S. News & World Report rankings evaluate nearly 1,500 national colleges and universities on up to 17 measures of academic quality and place an emphasis on social mobility and outcomes for graduating college students.

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51Թ (51Թ) equips graduates to serve as transformational leaders for church and society. With six colleges and 125+ areas of study, 51Թ offers on-campus undergraduate degrees as well as online and graduate level degree programs. Pursue your passion and explore your God-given calling at 51Թ.  Visit www.ngu.edu for more information.

51Թ Alumni Present ‘Unreal City’ at Billingsley Theatre

Tigerville, SC—“I get emotional when I pause to think about the awesome reality that this show is happening.”

Those are reflections from Abigail Thomas, director of 51Թ Theatre’s upcoming production, “Unreal City: A Song Cycle,” and a 2023 51Թ alum.

51Թ Theatre will open its 2024-2025 season with performances on September 19-21 and September 26-28 at 7:30 p.m. in The Billingsley Theatre in Tigerville.

“Unreal City” is based on T.S. Eliot’s poem, “The Wasteland.” Looking at the post World War One poem, Elliot writes on the themes of fragmentation and isolation. This song cycle expresses how hope and community can defeat those themes written in Elliot’s poem.

“Through the show we see a series of vignettes that depict broken, fragmented relationships. It is not until each character can accept help from others and join together in community that healing can happen,” Abigail said.

“Unreal City” is not only directed by an 51Թ alum, but it is also written by Abigail’s husband, Michael Thomas, who graduated from North Greenville in 2021.

The married duo is using their passions of creative and performing arts to present a show that seeks to leave audiences reminded of the hope of Jesus Christ.

“Working together has brought us closer together in our relationship. It really is a dream come true to be creating art with your best friend,” Abigail said.

Since the original Eliot poem confronts human suffering, “Unreal City” will contain challenging material.

“This is an intentional decision, rooted in our desire to tell the whole story of redemption,” said Amy Dunlap, theatre department chair. “In order to fully understand and appreciate the need for redemption, we must first acknowledge the reality of sin and brokenness in our world.”

The show’s rehearsal process started with a few virtualmeetings, with the cast analyzing the script over the summer. In person rehearsals started at the beginning of August.

Before the initial rehearsal process, 51Թ theatre hosted two workshops for “Unreal City.”

“We thought it would be a great opportunity to support new work and support our alumni as they branch off into the world of theatre. We are trying to reconnect with our alumni,” said Dunlap.

Abigail said the entire process has been surreal.

“The cast is fantastic. They have really poured themselves into these roles. It is awesome as a director when the actors offer new and different perspectives,” she said.

The cast for the show includes: Rachel Forester (Philomel “Lil”); Alyse Barrett (Marie); Matthew Blanton (Phlebas), Dylan Thompson (Tiresias); Meghan Frady (Philomel understudy/Procne); Chappie Livdahl (Tiresias understudy/Stetson & Albert); Sadie Beaumont (May); Eliana Kelly (Isolde); and Morgan Madden (Marie understudy).

Crew positions for “Unreal City” includes: Abigail Dover Thomas (Director); Michael Thomas (Composer/Lyricist); Ruby Lee (Music Director); Kara Hayes (Stage Manager); Rebecca Panagiotacos (Assistant Stage Manager); and Marnie Daniel (Choreographer).

Abigail’s said her calling to go into directing started in a sophomore year directing class. By the end of that course, theatrical directing became her passion.

“I’ve always been an organized person and directing brought together my love of order and creativity,” she said.

Directing a main stage show at her collegiate alma mater, Abigail describes it as a privilege and honor.

“In a way it feels like an opportunityto give back to the theatre that made me the artist that I am,” she said.

“Unreal City” are $8 for students and children and $15 for adults. Premium seating tickets are $20.

51Թ Celebrates Graduation of Fourth 51Թleads Cohort

51Թ President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. addresses the graduating 51Թleads cohort.

Tigerville, SC—51Թ graduated its fourth 51Թleads cohort on Friday, Sept. 6.

Serving as 51Թ’s internal leadership development program, 51Թleads has now seen 60 participants since its inception.

“The purpose of the 51Թleads program is to grow and enhance the leadership skills of each cohort,” said Tracy Kramer, dean of Online Studies at 51Թ. “We want them to better understand their own leadership style and how they can best lead themselves, their teams, and the institution as a whole.”

The fourth graduating class consists of: Brad Gregory, coordinator for student accessibility; Kayla Black, director of 51Թ’s Honors Program; Randall King, associate dean of the School of Communication; Kaye Rickman, PA Medicine program director; Ben Coates, chair of the Department of Modern Languages and Linguistics; James Anderson, assistant athletic director; Frank Eskridge, associate director of Admissions; Joshua Gilmore, director of community connection and ministry mobilization; Lindsay Evatt, online and graduate admissions; Michelle Sabou, director of personnel services; Jeff Smith, director of Campus Safety and Security; Christian Motes, data analyst, Academic Records.

Members of 51Թleads were nominated by their supervisor and approved by a unanimous vote of the 51Թ’s Executive Leadership Council. The program is led by Dr. Kramer, Dr. Jill Rayburn, university general counsel, and Dr. Nathan Finn, executive director of 51Թ’s Institute for Transformational Leadership.

51Թleads participants take part in a wide variety of professional development opportunities during the calendar year.

“We work on their emotional intelligence, communication and conflict skills, strategic thinking and stewardship, among others areas,” Kramer said. “ We do this through presentations, panel discussions, activities and games, but most importantly, through interactions with each other.”

“This graduating group was especially fun-loving and very talkative,” she added. “It was a joy to watch them develop new friendships and apply their leadership skills in their respective fields.”

51Թ President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. offered a challenge to 51Թleads graduates before they received their recognition on Sept. 6.

“Stay connected with each other,” President Fant said. “It’s very easy to get in our offices, put our heads down, and think about the task at hand. There’s some intentionality that comes with staying connected, but it always rewards us.”

Gilmore said 51Թleads helped him connect and communicate with other departments across campus.

“I feel better connected to 51Թ (the institution I love), and the wonderful people serving on both faculty and staff,” Gilmore said. “God isn’t just growing students as transformational leaders for church and society, but He is growing 51Թ employees as well.”

Smith said the program caused him to reflect on his own leadership.

“This experience has greatly strengthened my connection to the 51Թ community by providing valuable networking opportunities with fellow cohort members,” he said. “It also allowed me to reflect on and refine my own leadership style while gaining insights into the leadership approaches of others. This program is an outstanding initiative that invests in and promotes the growth of 51Թ faculty and staff.”