A Lasting Impact, Then and Now, Class Notes

President Dr. Brian Noland presents a Resolution of Appreciation to Pam Ritter at the Board of Trustees meeting on the occasion of her retirement.

A Lasting Impact

Pamela S. Ritter retired from her role as Vice President for University Advancement and CEO of the ETSU Foundation in November 2024.

To honor her extraordinary contributions to the university, the ETSU Board of Trustees and President Dr. Brian Noland presented her with a Resolution of Appreciation at the board’s November 15 meeting.


Ritter joined the ETSU administration in the summer of 2015 and provided crucial leadership in many fundraising campaigns, such as ETSU’s comprehensive “The Campaign for ETSU.” With more than $163 million raised, this was the largest and most successful capital campaign in university history.

Under her leadership, the University Advancement team supported ETSU through an unprecedented era of expansion and growth by raising funds to support major building and renovation projects, such as the Martin Center for the Arts, Lamb Hall, the D.P. Culp Student Center, the Academic Building, Brown Hall, Burleson Hall, Gilbreath Hall, and the Integrated Health Sciences Building.

The resolution noted that Ritter’s “efforts have significantly strengthened the financial foundation of ETSU, enriching the university’s capacity to serve its students and the region for years to come.”

Thank you, Pam!


Then and Now

Legacy of Buccaneer Spirit 

ETSU’s mascot has undergone incredible transformations over the years. These iconic figures have rallied Buccaneer spirit, each reflecting the era in which they cheered on our teams and energized our community. On this page, we take a journey through time, exploring the evolution of our mascot family—from nostalgic photos of Captain Kidd (the goat) and Pepper the Parrot to classic versions of Bucky the Pirate and the newest version of Bucky that debuted in fall 2024. Each image tells a story of tradition, pride, and the enduring spirit of Buccaneers past and present.

A goat named Captain Kidd


An earlier version of Bucky, ETSU’s mascot, flexing both of his arms and smiling

Pepper the Parrot holding a hand up and posing for a photo


An earlier version of Bucky, ETSU’s mascot, in the Mini Dome



 
 

ETSU’s mascot, Bucky, waving his hand.


Class Notes

 

1960s

Bishop Kenneth L. Carder, Class of 1962, received the 2024 Distinguished Alumnus in Public Service Award given by the ETSU National Alumni Association. His degree is in Sociology.

Dr. J. Douglas McAlister, Classes of 1967 and 1968, has retired from Virginia Tech after 50 years of service. Dr. McAlister was President of the ETSU National Alumni Association Board of Directors in 1995-96 and received ETSU’s Outstanding Alumnus award in 1999. The McAlisters are an ETSU family.  Dr. McAlister’s wife Pat was a member of the Class of 1969.  Their daughter Kim graduated in 1991, and their son Sean earned his bachelor’s degree in 1990 and master’s in 1992, from ETSU. Doug and Pat’s granddaughter, Amanda Lowe, is a senior on the ETSU volleyball team and will graduate in the spring of 2025. Dr. McAlister’s degrees are in Geography.

1970s

Dr. David B. Stout, Jr., Classes of 1973 and 1977, received the 2024 Distinguished Alumnus in Education Award given by the ETSU National Alumni Association. His degrees are in Journalism and Educational Administration.

Dr. Robert W. Robertson, Class of 1974, is the first to be awarded a Principal Fellowship in the Cayman Islands. He serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of University College of the Cayman Islands. Dr. Robertson is the third Advance HE fellow in the islands and the first Principal Fellow. His degree is in Geography.

Bishop W. David Epps, Class of 1975, has been appointed as the Endorser for the United States Military Chaplains for the Charismatic Episcopal Church of North America. His degree is in Social Work.

The Honorable Sharon M. Green, Class of 1975, was recognized for exemplifying the spirit of Girl Scouts at a Trefoil Society Luncheon sponsored by the Girl Scouts of the Southern Appalachians. Her degree is in History.

Margaret W. Moses, Class of 1975, received the Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants’ 2024 TSCPApex Impact Award. She is a CPA in Elizabethton. Her degree is in Accounting.

Russell G. Treadway, Classes of 1975 and 1977, retired as City Administrator for Sevierville. Treadway served 45 years in local government, with more than 28 years in Sevierville. His degrees are in Political Science and City Management.

Dr. Robbie J. Anderson, Classes of 1978 and 1993, retired from the Johnson City School System after 50 years of service. She holds a Master of Arts in Special Education and a doctorate in Educational Administration and Supervision.

1980s

David W. Purkey, Class of 1981, was awarded the Tennessee Highway Safety Office’s Lifetime Achievement Award for Highway Safety. Purkey retired in 2019 after 38 years in government service. His degree is in Health Education.

Jamie Burleson Harber, Class of 1982, was chosen first place winner in the Arts Bonita ‘Masters of the Light’ juried exhibition at Coco Art Gallery in Estero, Florida. Her degree is in Mass Communication.

Sherri A. Tynes, Class of 1983, was inducted into the Greater Wilmington (North Carolina) Sports Hall of Fame. She earned four varsity letters in basketball at ETSU and coached women’s basketball and softball, as well as men’s and women’s golf, for 30 years. Tynes never had a losing season and finished with four conference championships and seven tournament championships. Her degree is in Physical Education.

P. Velvet Vanover, Classes of 1983 and 2000, received the Scott and Nikki Niswonger Servant’s Heart Award, which is Ballad Health’s highest honor. Vanover is a Registered Nurse and a Systems Manager for Clinical Education at Ballad Health. Her degrees are in Nursing.

Dr. Allen D. Everett, Class of 1984, received the Quillen College of Medicine’s Distinguished Alumnus Award for Professional Achievement. His degree is in Medicine.

Larry Trung La, Class of 1984, has written his autobiography, Square Moon: One Man’s Journey from War-Torn Vietnam to D.C.’s Hottest Kitchens. His degree is in Business.

Thomas M. Mullen, Class of 1984, was recognized as a Faculty Champion by the Center for Community News at the University of Vermont. Mullen is Director of Public Affairs Journalism at the University of Richmond. His degree is in Mass Communication.

C. Scott Greer, Class of 1985, has been promoted to President and Chief Operating Officer of Citizens Bank. His degree is in Accounting.

Tammy L. Pearce, Classes of 1985 and 2004, is Supervisor of Johnson City School System’s Middle Schools. Her degrees are in Physical Education and Educational Leadership.

Janet Snodgrass Ayers, Classes of 1986 and 2015, and her husband Jim of The Ayers Foundation have been honored at Vanderbilt University Medical Center by the naming of the Jim Ayers Tower in recognition of their philanthropic legacy and interest in improving the quality of life for Tennesseans. Her degrees are in Health Education and Professional Studies.

Craig M. Kilgore, Class of 1986, has become a Fellow in the American College of Medical Practice Executives. He is Chief Executive Officer for Coastal Vascular & Vein Center. His degree is in Accounting.

Dr. B.J. King, Classes of 1986, 1995, and 2007, received the 2024 Outstanding Alumna Award given by the ETSU National Alumni Association. Her degrees are in Accounting, Finance, and Educational Leadership.

Cheryl A. Lang, Class of 1986, has been promoted to President & CEO of Tindall Corporation. Her degree is in Accounting.

Roxana Sepahi, Class of 1986, is a Labor and Delivery Nurse at Northwest Medical Center and was recognized as a Fab 50 Nurse by the Tucson (Arizona) Nurses Week Foundation. Her degree is in Nursing.

Dr. M. Todd Barnett, Class of 1988, is retiring after working 26 years for the Johnson City School System. His last assignment was Principal at Science Hill High School and District Administrator. His degree is in Mathematical Sciences.

1990s

1990 and 1994, is President of the Tennessee Medical Association. His degrees are in History and Medicine.

Sherri DeVault, Class of 1990, has retired as Principal of Ketron Elementary School in Kingsport. Her degree is in Elementary Education.

Catherine Killeen Monteroso, Class of 1990, is West Liberty University’s Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs. Her degree is in History.

K. Todd Baxter, Class of 1991, is President and Chief Executive Officer of FirstEnroll. He is a C-Suite veteran of Private Equity-backed companies largely focused in health care and insurance industries. His degree is in Finance.

Dr. William B. Greer, Class of 1991, was presented the Fide et Amore award for faithful service to Milligan University. Dr. Greer retired in the summer of 2024 as the university’s 15th President, but will continue to serve Milligan as Chancellor. He holds a Master of Business Administration degree.

A. Darlene Smith, Class of 1991, is a member of the Hamblen County  Board of Education. She has a Master of Educational Administration and Supervision degree.

Dr. Kyle T. Colvett, Class of 1992, received the Quillen College of Medicine’s Distinguished Alumnus Award for Service. His degree is in Medicine.

Philip J. Anson Jr., Classes of 1993 and 1994, was named to Florida Trend Magazine’s “2024 Florida 500” for being one of the state’s most influential business leaders. Anson is Chief Executive Officer of STS Aviation Group in Jensen Beach, Florida. His degrees are in Marketing and Business Administration.

Lori Cassell Clarke, Class of 1993, is a Recruitment and Safety Processor at Freight Contracting Services, LLC. Her degree is in Mass Communication.

Dr. Kelli Burgin Mayfield, Class of 1993, was acknowledged as a Pinnacle Lifetime Member for her contributions in Leading Geriatric Medicine by The Inner Circle. Her degree is in Medicine.

Dr. Charles D. Corwin, Classes of 1994, 1996, and 2015, married Holly English. He is the Assistant Principal for CTE at Science Hill High School in Johnson City. His degrees are in History, Elementary Education, and Educational Leadership.

Brig. Gen. James D. Burk, Class of 1995, was the keynote speaker for ETSU ROTC’s Spring Commissioning Ceremony. His degree is in Nursing.

Bryan T. Daniels, Classes of 1995 and 1997, was named the 2025 Chair of the Board of the International Economic Development Council. His degrees are in Speech and Engineering Technology.

Glen E. Farner, Class of 1995, was appointed to the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority’s Board of Commissioners. He is the Business Manager and Secretary-Treasurer of the Southeast Laborers’ District Council. His degree is in Environmental Health.

Dr. Marjorie Runyon Jenkins, Class of 1995, has been named Vice President for Health Affairs and Dean of the School of Medicine and Health Sciences at the University of North Dakota. Her degree is in Medicine.

Chaka O. Sutton, Class of 1995, is Chief Outreach Officer and Senior Vice President of Sports for Special Olympics CO. He was featured in the USA Football Newsletter discussing how to make football more inclusive. His degree is in Sociology.

Melissa Milhorn Sifford, Classes of 1996 and 2001, was named 2024 Nurse of the Year by the Tennessee Nurses Association. She is a Registered Nurse Specialist and Educator at the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital/Tri-Cities Affiliate Clinic at Niswonger Children’s Hospital. Her degrees are in Speech and Hearing and Nursing.

Dr. Kent S. Wright, Class of 1996, is Chief Clinical Integration Officer for State of Franklin Healthcare Associates. His degree is in Medicine.

Juan R. DeAngulo, Class of 1997, received the 2024 Outstanding Alumnus Award given by the ETSU National Alumni Association. His degree is in Finance.

Miranda Gray Cooper, Class of 1998, has been promoted to Chief Experience Officer at Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union. Her degree is in Mass Communication.

Rita A. Bunch, Classes of 1997 and 1999, is joining the Erlanger Health System in Chattanooga. She previously served as President of Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital in Charlottesville, Virginia. Her degrees are in Public Health.

Jamie Rhudy Henson, Class of 1998, is a Senior Consultant at DEKRA. Her degree is in Political Science.

Jason S. Shaw, Class of 1998, is the Chief of Police in Elizabethton and is the District 1 Director for the Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police organization representing Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hawkins, Johnson, Sullivan, Unicoi, and Washington counties. His degree is in Criminal Justice and Criminology.

Stacy Frisbee Smith, Class of 1998, is Director of Marketing at Wallace Distribution Company. Her degree is in Mass Communication.

Diane Watts Copas, Class of 1999, serves as Tennessee’s Director to the National Association of School Nurses. She is also the School Health Services Director for the Sullivan County Department of Education in Blountville. Her degree is in Nursing.

Dr. Rebecca Thomas Dunkelberger, Class of 1999, has been promoted to Assistant Director of Enrollment at ETSU’s Gatton College of Pharmacy. She holds a Master of Arts in Teaching degree.

Dustin B. Fawver, Class of 1999, received a 2024 ETSU Staff Senate award. He is a Systems Administrator with IT Services. His degree is in Computer and Information Science.

Dr. Stephen D. Loyd, Class of 1999, is Director of the Office of Drug Control Policy in West Virginia. His degree is in Medicine.

Dr. M. Charmayne Mulligan, Class of 1999, is Dean of Humanities and Fine Arts for Chattanooga State Community College. She holds a Master of Arts in English degree.

Matthew D. Neilson, Class of 1999, has been promoted to Principal and National Audit and Assurance Technical Leader at PYA. His degree is in Accounting.

Mark A. Phillips, Class of 1999, is an Account Executive at BlueSummit Medical Group. His degree is in Mass Communication.

Annette Amos Silvers, Class of 1999, received the Scott and Nikki Niswonger Servant’s Heart Award, which is Ballad Health’s highest honor. Silvers is a Registered Nurse at Franklin Woods Hospital. Her degree is in Nursing.

2000s

Heather R. Crouse, Class of 2000, has been promoted to Senior Vice President of Frontier Health’s Outpatient & Children’s Specialty Services for the Southwest Virginia region. Her degree is in Counseling.

Kelly Toomey Elliott, Class of 2000, is Senior Woman Administrator in Athletics and a Student-Athlete Advisory Committee Sponsor for Union University. Her degree is in Physical Education.

Christopher D. Hicks, Class of 2000, received the 2024 ETSU Staff Senate Career Award. He is a Student Account Specialist with Tax and Revenue Services. His degree is in Psychology.

Margaret Lewis Rutter, Class of 2000, has been honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by Strathmore’s Who’s Who Worldwide for her outstanding contributions and achievements in the field of health care. Rutter is a Nurse Practitioner at Lansing Family Health and Wellness, LLC, in Lansing, North Carolina. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing degree.

Corey B. Shoun, Class of 2000, has been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant with the Johnson City Police Department. In addition to his career with the JCPD, Shoun also serves as a First-Class Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy and is a reserve investigator with Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) Southeast Field Office. His degree is in Mass Communication.

Stephanie L. Smith, Class of 2000, is Principal at Fountain Inn High School in South Carolina. She holds a Master of Arts in Secondary Education degree.

Dr. Jeffrey E. Snodgrass, Class of 2001, has been named Dean of ETSU’s College of Health Sciences. He has served as Interim Associate Dean for Academic and Clinical Affairs since 2022 and was Chair of Rehabilitative Health Sciences at ETSU from 2018-23. He holds a Master of Public Health degree.

Alicia L. Thompson, Class of 2001, is an Assistant Principal at Charlotte-Mecklenburg County Schools. Her degree is in Microbiology.

Darren A. Dannelly, Class of 2002, is Executive Director of the Center for Courageous Kids, which won a 2024 Org Impact Award recognizing outstanding mission-driven organizations and their positive contributions to society. His degree is in Human Development and Learning.

Cpt. Richard L. Frazier, Class of 2002, graduated from the FBI National Academy. He is the Commander of the Criminal Investigations Division with the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Department. His degree is in Criminal Justice and Criminology.

Brett Kattesh, Classes of 2002 and 2006, was a member of the winning team at the 2024 Sigma Chi Alumni Golf Tournament. His degrees are in General Psychology and Nursing.

Joshua L. Lowe, Class of 2002, is Regional Vice President of Morning Pointe Senior Living’s Smoky Region. Lowe oversees daily operations at 10 assisted living and memory care communities in East Tennessee. His degree is in Public Health.

Diana Loyd O’Neal, 2002 and 2005, was selected as Tennessee’s Science Educator of the Year for Grades 5-8. She is a CTE and STEM lab teacher at Sulphur Springs Elementary School. Her degrees are in General Studies and Elementary Education.

The Honorable S. Curtis Rose, Class of 2002, has been elected Circuit Court Judge for the 2nd Judicial District in Tennessee. Rose previously served as the Municipal Judge for the City of Kingsport for seven years. His degree is in Marketing.

George C. Taylor, Class of 2002, is a Mid-Atlantic Regional Account Manager for Cybersecurity at Assura, Inc. His degree is in Marketing.

Dr. Heather Mabrey Toth, Classes of 2002 and 2013, received the Distinguished Alumna Award from ETSU’s College of Health Sciences. Her degrees are in Speech and Audiology.

Emra K. Arkansas, Class of 2003, was included in the 2024 Marquis Who’s Who. She serves as Executive Director of the Cherokee Tribal Gaming Commission. Her degree is in History.

Dr. Robert R. Brandon, Class of 2003, is President of New River Community College. He holds a master’s degree in English.

Jonathan K. Godfrey, Class of 2003, has been promoted to Head of Regional Commercial Banking at Fifth Third Bank. His degree is in Marketing.

Joseph L. Jaynes, Class of 2003, has been promoted to Sergeant with the Johnson City Police Department. His degree is in Criminal Justice and Criminology.

Jonathan B. Nichols, Class of 2003, is Assistant Principal of Ketron Elementary School in Kingsport. His degree is in Music.

Allison Sherrill Guinn, Class of 2004, recently starred in the Broadway show Tammy Faye. Guinn performed the role of Jan Crouch. Her degree is in Speech.

Daniel K. Harris, Class of 2004, is Director of Enterprise Software Development at LabConnect. His degree is in Digital Media.

Amanda J. Vance, Classes of 2004 and 2007, was named 2025-2026 Teacher of the Year and GEM of the Year at Langley-Bath-Clearwater Middle School in Aiken, South Carolina. Her degrees are in History and Elementary Education.

Christopher P. Harrington, Classes of 2005 and 2007, is Chief Financial Officer of Aslan. His degrees are in Accounting.

Dr. Brandon R. Hudson, Classes of 2005 and 2019, has been promoted to Program Coordinator for Sport Management at Tusculum University. He holds a Master of Arts degree in Physical Education and a doctorate degree in Global Sport Leadership.

Dr. Kristen Lawson McHenry, Classes of 2005, 2013, and 2017, was promoted to Master in Science of Respiratory Care Program Director at Boise State University. Her degrees are in Allied Health and Educational Leadership.

Bennett C. Rhoda, Classes of 2005 and 2009, is Brand Director – Hematology, Emerging Assets & Rare Disease, US Marketing at Daiichi Sankyo US. His degrees are in Marketing and Business Administration.

Brandi L. Smith, Class of 2005, has been named Principal of Ketron Elementary School in Kingsport. Her degree is in Early Childhood Development.

Inge Aldridge Smith, Class of 2005, is a 2024 Triad Business Journal Outstanding Women in Business honoree. She is Communications Director for Verger Capital Management in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Her degree is in English.

Timothy A. Carlson, Class of 2006, is an Assistant Golf Professional at Charter Oak Country Club. His degree is in Mass Communication.

Craig R. Charles, Class of 2006, received the 2024 Award of Honor presented by the ETSU National Alumni Association. His degree is in Mass Communication.

Amanda Oliver Humphrey, Class of 2006, is Principal of Valley Forge Elementary in Elizabethton. Her degree is in Elementary Education.

D. Scott Lawson, Class of 2006, is a Billing and Medical Record Analyst at Acadia Health. His degree is in Mass Communication.

Joshua A. Strom, Class of 2006, is an Account Sales Representative at CFE Equipment Corporation. His degree is in Sport and Leisure Management.

Ashley Kendall Holdaway, Class of 2007, is a Senior National Account Manager for Sanofi. Her degree is in Marketing.

Anna Marie Ricciardi Murphy, Class of 2007, is Vice President of Marketing at Step Change Innovations. Her degree is in Mass Communication.

Jennifer Whaley, Class of 2007, has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer at Citizens Bank. Her degree is in Accounting.

Lisa E. Carter, Class of 2008, was a keynote speaker for the BOSS Lady (Building Our Strengths for Success) Conference, sponsored by the Elizabethton Chamber of Commerce. Carter is President of Ballad Health's Southern Region. She holds a Master’s in Nursing degree.

Dr. Kimberly D. Cassidy, Classes of 2008 and 2016, is a Professor/Coordinator of Early Childhood Programs at Walters State Community College. She holds a Master of Special Education degree and a doctorate degree in Early Childhood Education.

Dedrick J. Jackson, Classes of 2008 and 2010, is a Consultant for Deuteria Beverages, LLC. His degrees are in Sport and Leisure Management and Kinesiology and Sport Studies.

Joshua D. McFall, Classes of 2008 and 2016, has been promoted to Chief Financial Officer of Ballad Health’s corporate, retail, and non-acute services. His degrees are in Finance and Business Administration.

Erin Bilyeu Billingsby, Class of 2009, is Director of Development for ETSU Athletics. Her degree is in Marketing.

Bradley J. Eshbach, Class of 2009, is Vice President of Strategy at Creative Energy. His degree is in Marketing.

Robert T. Glover, Class of 2009, was a member of the winning team at the 2024 Sigma Chi Alumni Golf Tournament. His degree is in Engineering Technology.

W. Jordan Huffman, Class of 2009, has been elected to the Metro Nashville City Council. His degree is in Criminal Justice and Criminology.

Sandra L. Laws, Classes of 2009 and 2011, was presented the ETSU Distinguished Research Staff award. Laws is an Assistant Archivist in the Archives of Appalachia. She recently edited a book entitled Appalachia to Dessau: Letters of a Rank Commander in WWII, which has been published. Her degrees are in Interdisciplinary Studies and Educational Media and Educational Technology.

Samuel C. Peery, Class of 2009, has been named 2024 Culinary Visionary of the Year by IHG Hotels & Resorts. Peery is Executive Chef at Kimpton Hotel Fontenot in New Orleans. His degree is in Interdisciplinary Studies.

Lt. Col. William David Smith, M.D., Class of 2009, is the 2024–2026 President of the International Association of Military Flight Surgeon Pilots. His degree is in Medicine.

Bradley C. Turner, Class of 2009, was a member of the winning team at the 2024 Sigma Chi Alumni Golf Tournament. His degree is in Business Management.

2010s

Joshua S. Culbert, Classes of 2010 and 2012, was selected as one of this year’s 40 Under Forty honorees by the Business Journal of Tri-Cities TN/VA. He owns Josh Culbert CPA. His degrees are in Accounting.

Dr. Heather Hobbs, Class of 2010, is Principal at Kennedy Elementary School in Kingsport. Her degree is in Early Childhood Development.

Dr. Janice L. Irvin, Classes of 2010 and 2014, is Kingsport City Schools’ Director of Early Childhood Education and Principal of Palmer Early Learning Center. Her degrees are in Educational Leadership.

Dr. Robert M. Monahan, Class of 2010, was elected Chair of the Society of Independent Pharmacists for 2024-25 by the Tennessee Pharmacists Association. His degree is in Pharmacy.

Jesse A. Osborne, Class of 2010, was selected as one of this year’s 40 Under Forty honorees by the Business Journal of Tri-Cities TN/VA. He works at Ballad Health. He holds a Master of Science degree in Allied Health.

Dr. McKenzie Calhoun Highsmith, Class of 2011, was a keynote speaker for the BOSS Lady (Building Our Strengths for Success) Conference, sponsored by the Elizabethton Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Highsmith is an Associate Professor in the East Tennessee State University Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy’s Department of Pharmacy Practice. Her degree is in Pharmacy.

Aaron C. Ramey, Class of 2011, was selected as one of this year’s 40 Under Forty honorees by the Business Journal of Tri-Cities TN/VA. He works at Price and Ramey. His degree is in Interdisciplinary Studies.

Jeremy Ray, Class of 2011, was selected to be in the 2024 Class of Leadership Rutherford in Murfreesboro. He is a Litigator at Baker, Donelson. His degree is in Biology.

Dr. H. Lamar Smith, Class of 2011, has been named Title 1 and Family Engagement Coordinator for Putnam County, Tennessee School System. He holds a doctorate degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis.

Dr. James E. Stukes, Classes of 2011 and 2022, is a 2024-2026 Co-Chair for the Black First-Gen Collective. He is the Assistant Dean of Student Success and College Access at Wofford College. His degrees are in History and Educational Leadership.

T. Caleb Tull, Classes of 2011 and 2014, is Director of Membership and Business Development for the Johnson City Chamber of Commerce. His degrees are in Mass Communication and Business Administration.

Andrew R. Childress, Classes of 2012 and 2014, was promoted to Senior Solutions Consultant at Datarails. His degrees are in Accounting.

M. Dalton Collins, Class of 2012, works for the Office of General Counsel for the Washington D.C. Department of Public Works. His degree is in Political Science.

Samantha Adkins Culbertson, Class of 2012, painted a mural in Greeneville, Tennessee, which was sponsored by Frontier Health. This mural focusing on mental health is part of a collection in the Greene County Mural Trail. Her degree is in Art.

Dr. Paige Dudley, Class of 2012, has been promoted to Commander in the U.S. Navy. Her degree is in Medicine.

Sander Gille, Class of 2012, represented Belgium in the 2024 Olympic Games along with his doubles partner, Joran Vliegen. This was their second Olympics after competing together in Tokyo in 2020. Gille’s degree is in Business Management.

Alicia T. Summers, Class of 2012, is Johnson City’s Assistant City Manager. Previously she served as the city’s Economic Development Director. Her degree is in Interdisciplinary Studies.

Dr. Rebecca L. Turner, Classes of 2012 and 2021, is a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner at East Tennessee OB/GYN in Morristown. Her degrees are in Nursing.

Kathryn A. Westbrooks, Class of 2012, is Creative Director at Ripl Creative. Her degree is in Graphic Design.

Dr. Emily Eisenhower-Baxter, Class of 2013, was named Tennessee Association of Optometric Physicians Young Optometric Doctor of the Year. She practices at VisionSource. Her degree is in Chemistry.

Dr. Frederick R. Bossert, Class of 2013, has been promoted to Assistant Professor for the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the UT Health Science Center College of Medicine. His degree is in Medicine.

Austin W. Hilton, Classes of 2013 and 2016, is an Associate in the Litigation Department at Fox Rothschild in Princeton, New Jersey. His degrees are in History.

Dr. Courtney Chace Mabe, Class of 2013, is the District Pharmacy Director for the Appalachian Region for PharMerica in Vinton, Virginia. Her degree is in Pharmacy.

Matthew K. Rhoten, Class of 2013, has been appointed County Manager for Gaston County, North Carolina. His degree is in Political Science.

Christine M. Smith, Class of 2013, is Senior Marketing Operations Manager at Colibri Group. She holds a Master of Professional Communication degree.

The Honorable Zachary R. Walden, Class of 2013, was honored by the American Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Division as one of the 2024 On the Rise – Top 40 Young Lawyers. Walden presides over Criminal Court and Recovery Court for Tennessee’s Eighth Judicial District. Elected in 2022, Judge Walden is the youngest trial court judge in the U.S. He holds two bachelor’s degrees, in Business Management and English.

Dr. Nikhil Anand, Class of 2014, ranked among metro Atlanta’s Top Doctors in Atlanta magazine. Dr. Anand is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in comprehensive ophthalmology and cataract surgery at Eye Consultants of Atlanta. His degree is in Medicine.

Ashley J. Ellenburg, Class of 2014, was awarded a commendation for her efforts in locating a missing juvenile. She is an Investigator for the Johnson City Police Department. Her degree is in Criminal Justice and Criminology.

Adam C. Jarvis, Class of 2014, was appointed Chief of Staff for the State of Tennessee’s Department of Finance and Administration in October of 2024. His degree is in Public Health.

Dr. J. Leslie Loudon, Class of 2014, presented at the 2024 Hematology Oncology Pharmacy Association Annual Meeting. He created a poster on the patient perspective of IV iron logistics. His degree is in Pharmacy.

Logan Peters Pace, Class of 2014, participated in the Alumni Return to the Classroom program. She spoke to first-year grad students and senior undergrad students in the Clinical Nutrition and Sport Nutrition program on "Eating Disorders and the Role of the RDN." She holds a Master of Clinical Dietitian degree.

Jordan T. Richardson, Class of 2014, is a lawyer at Hunter, Smith and Davis. His areas of practice include estate planning and administration and conservatorships. His degree is in History.

J. Nathaniel Routh, Class of 2014, was selected as one of this year’s 40 Under Forty honorees by the Business Journal of Tri-Cities TN/VA. He works at Knoxville TVA Employees Credit Union. His degree is in Economics.

Cody L. Skaggs, Class of 2014, is a Construction Manager at Windstar Homes. His degree is in Finance.

Dr. Marc A Valley, Class of 2014, has been included in Marquis Who’s Who. He is an Anesthesiologist and Pain Management Specialist practicing medicine at Imperial Pain Specialists in Johnson City. He holds a Master of Public Health degree.

Dr. C. Brooke Adams, Class of 2015, presented at the 2024 Hematology Oncology Pharmacy Association Annual Meeting. Dr. Adams did a continuing education presentation on the use of bispecific antibodies in multiple myeloma. Her degree is in Pharmacy.

Ashley Nelligan Horne, Class of 2015, is Senior Human Resources Generalist at Lochinvar, LLC. Her degree is in Business Management.

Ashton N. White, Class of 2015, is Community and Guest Relations Manager at Bristol Motor Speedway. Her degree is in Interdisciplinary Studies.

Brandon T. Johnson, Classes of 2015 and 2017, was elected to the Campbell County School Board. His degrees are in Business Management and Business Administration.

Adrian Meronk, Class of 2016, represented Poland in the 2024 Olympic games in tennis. His degree is in Finance.

Gabrielle N. Billiot, Class of 2017, is an Associate Education Designer for Education Design Lab. Her degree is in Media and Communication.

Paige N. Davis, Classes of 2017 and 2019, has been promoted to Senior Research Analyst at Smarty Pants market research and strategic consulting firm. Her degrees are in Media and Communication and Brand and Media Strategy.

Will A. Ellis, Class of 2017, is a lawyer at Hunter, Smith and Davis. His areas of practice are commercial litigation, insurance defense, and labor and employment. His degree is in Biology.

A. Mitchell Ellison, Class of 2017, is District Commercial Manager at Univar Solutions. His degree is in Business Management.

David C. Floyd, Class of 2017, is a Business Reporter for the Chattanooga Times-Free Press. His degree is in Media and Communication.

Kayla M. Hernandez, Class of 2017, is an Event Director for Ridgewell’s Catering in Bethesda, Maryland. Her degree is in General Studies.

Dakota C. Love, Class of 2017, is Director of Financial Services at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. His degree is in Finance.

Dr. Sean W. Ochsenbein, Class of 2017, received the 2024 PRIDE Of ETSU Alumni Award given by the ETSU National Alumni Association. He was also selected as one of this year’s 40 Under Forty honorees by the Business Journal of Tri-Cities TN/VA. His degree is in Medicine.

Dr. Kyle S. Owens, Class of 2017, has been recognized as a 2024 Castle Connolly Rising Star. The Rising Stars designation recognizes early career physicians who are emerging leaders in their field. Dr. Owens is a Dermatologist with Lockhart Matter Dermatology & Aesthetic Center in Plano, Texas. His degree is in Medicine.

Dr. Danny R. Pate, Class of 2017, was elected to participate in the Tennessee Pharmacists Association’s 2024 Emerging Leaders Academy. His degree is in Pharmacy.

Hannah A. Upchurch, Classes of 2017 and 2024, is Supervisor of Johnson City School System’s Food Service. Her degrees are in Nutrition and Professional Studies.

Carson A. Biggs, Class of 2018, is Director of Ticket Operations at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. His degree is in Sport and Leisure Management.

Sarah Lemons Black, Classes of 2018 and 2020, was selected as one of this year’s 40 Under Forty honorees by the Business Journal of Tri-Cities TN/VA. She works for Blackburn, Childers, Steagall CPAs. Her degrees are in Accounting.

Christopher T. Kudera, Class of 2018, is Parks and Recreation Director for the Town of Jonesborough. His degree is in International Affairs.

Dr. Anastasia Kuvayskaya, Classes of 2018 and 2020, is a Patent Examiner for the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Her degrees are in Chemistry.

Dr. Abby E. Lopp, Classes of 2018 and 2022, presented at the 2024 Hematology Oncology Pharmacy Association Annual Meeting. Her degrees are in Health Sciences and Pharmacy.

Dr. Megan E. Mobley, Class of 2018, serves as an Audiologist and has been promoted to Major in the United States Air Force. She holds a doctorate degree in Audiology.

Dr. Brittany D. Patmon, Class of 2018, is Lead Dentist at Cempa Community Care Dental Clinic in Chattanooga. Her degree is in Health Sciences.

Travis L. Watson, Classes of 2018 and 2021, received a 2024 ETSU Staff Senate award. He is an Arborist Manager with ETSU’s Maintenance and Grounds. His degrees are in Biology.

Bradlee C. Clark, Class of 2019, completed the National Forensic Academy program, one of the country’s top forensic training programs. Clark is an Investigator with the Johnson City Police Department. His degree is in History.

Jeremy P. Collins, Classes of 2019 and 2023, is an SEC Accountant at Eastman. His degrees are in Accounting and Business Administration.

Austin T. Ford, Classes of 2019 and 2021, was promoted to Associate Director of Revenue Management at TrackRevenue. His degrees are in Marketing and Business Administration.

Lindsey J. Johnson, Classes of 2019 and 2021, is a Staff Accountant at Wayne Roddy, CPA PLLC. Her degrees are in Economics and International Affairs.

Michael T. Keeton, Classes of 2019 and 2022, is a System Coordinator, Quality and Safety Transformation at Ballad Health. His degrees are in Cardiopulmonary Science and Public Health.

Dr. Hudsadong Jack Novansy, Classes of 2019 and 2020, was featured on the cover of America's Pharmacist for his role as a Clinical Community Pharmacist at the innovative Avant Pharmacy in Charlotte. He holds a Master of Business Administration degree and a doctorate degree in Pharmacy.

Dalton McKay Scott, Class of 2019, and Krystan Inman Scott welcomed baby boy Navy McKay Scott on February 8, 2024, in Johnson City, Tennessee. Dalton’s degree is in Engineering Technology.

Kalli L. Sluder, Classes of 2019 and 2022, married Jerad Garland, Class of 2022, on June 1, 2024, in Mountain City. Her degrees are in Health Sciences and School Librarianship. His degree is in Computing.

Jacob G. Townsend, Class of 2019, been promoted to Morning Monster Show Host at 640 WXSM/101.5 WQUT HD2 The Sports Monster. His degree is in Media and Communication.

2020s

John M. Foster, Class of 2020, is an Associate Attorney at Leitner, Williams, Dooley and Napolitan, PLLC in Knoxville. His degree is in Management.

Heath R. McMillian, Class of 2020, has been appointed by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee to the Tennessee Council for Career and Technical Education. McMillian is President of the Tennessee College of Applied Technology in Elizabethton. He holds a master’s degree in Business Administration.

Joshua B. Routh, Classes of 2020 and 2022, is a Financial Analyst II at BAE Systems. His degrees are in Management and Business Administration.

Isaiah J. Tisdale, Class of 2020, has been named Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Garden City Community College in Garden City, Kansas. His degree is in Interdisciplinary Studies.

Micaela D. Tucker, Class of 2020, is a Junior Software Engineer at Winmill Software. Her degree is in Computing.

Chayton B. Williams, Class of 2020, is an AMS Agreement Manager at Eastman. His degree is in Business Management.

Dr. David F. Zinn, Class of 2020, was awarded Lander University’s Junior Faculty Teaching Award for the academic year 2023-2024. He is an Assistant Professor of Sports Management in the university’s College of Business. He holds a doctorate degree in Global Sport Leadership.

Haley Mullins Arni, Classes of 2021 and 2023, is a Marketing Specialist at Hollis + Miller Architects. Her degrees are in Media and Communication and Brand and Media Strategy.

Jacob Tanner Barb, Class of 2021, is the Assistant Chief Nursing Officer -Texas Hospital District. His degree is in Nursing.

Dr. Samuel L. Brashears, Class of 2021, has joined HMG Primary Care in Bristol, Tennessee. His degree is in Medicine.

John Dusel, Class of 2021, has been promoted to Head Athletic Trainer for the Atlanta Hawks. He holds a Master of Sport Science and Coach Education degree.

Jessica Vargo Elwell, Class of 2021, is an IT Project Manager II at Ballad Health. Her degree is in Public Health.

Sidney A. Fritz, Class of 2021, is an EP Mapping Specialist II with Boston Scientific. Her degree is in Nursing.

Garren M. Jackson, Class of 2021, is the Head Baseball Coach at Hampton High School. His degree is in Kinesiology.

Elizabeth Brockey Maughon, Class of 2021, was named one of AdMonsters and AdExchanger’s 2024 Top Women in Media and AdTech. Her degree is in Digital Marketing.

Dr. Heather L. Murray, Class of 2021, practices medicine at Centra’s Lynchburg Family Medicine in Lynchburg, Virginia. Her degree is in Medicine.

Dr. Andrea Sykes Poynter, Class of 2021, has been named an Assistant Nursing Professor at Belmont University. She holds a doctorate degree in Nursing.

Grace A. Roberts, Class of 2021, married Isaac Lewis on July 20, 2024, in Limestone, Tennessee. Her degree is in English.

Olivia T. Sturgill, Classes of 2021 and 2023, has been promoted to Investment Accountant 2 at the Tennessee Department of Treasury. Her degrees are in Accounting.

Julia “Jules” Thomas, Class of 2021, has been promoted to Community Leader at Forbes Books. Her degree is in Media and Communication.

Dr. Alicia N. Abney, Class of 2022, won the 2023 Outstanding Advisor: Primary Role Award from NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising. She is an Academic Advisor at the University of Kentucky. She holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership.

Kailee C. Amburgey, Classes of 2022 and 2024, is a Choral Teacher at Church Hill Middle School. Her degrees are in Elementary Education and Curriculum and Instruction.

Dr. Jacquelyn A. Crawford, Class of 2022, participated in the Alumni Return to the Classroom program for ETSU’s Gatton College of Pharmacy. She taught Infectious Endocarditis to P2 students. She is a PGY2 Critical Care Resident at Johnson City Medical Center. Her degree is in Pharmacy.

Sara C. Delbene, Classes of 2022 and 2024, is a Special Events Manager for the City of Johnson City. Her degrees are in Media and Communication and Digital Marketing.

Rebecca J. Eubanks, Class of 2022, is a digital Customer Experience Marketing and Communications Lead and Workplace Culture Ambassador at Capgemini. She holds two bachelor’s degrees, in Mathematics and Marketing.

Dr. John “J.D.” Faulconer, Class of 2022, is Principal at Fulton High School in Knox County. He holds a doctorate degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis.

L. Ellen Frazier, Class of 2022, is the Administrative Assistant of Community and Economic Development for the Town of Marion, Virginia. Her degree is in Marketing.

Ethan L. Galloway, Class of 2022, has been elected to the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine’s Board of Governors and was appointed to the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine’s Council of Osteopathic Student Government Presidents’ executive board for the 2024-25 academic year as national programs representative. His degree is in Chemistry.

Chalette Hamby, Class of 2022, is a Wellness Coordinator at Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Her degree is in Social Work.

Brianna I. Martinson, Class of 2022, has been included in Marquis Who's Who. She is Director of Engineering at Tepia, a software and technology agency. Her degree is in Computing.

Dr. Megan M. Roberts, Class of 2022, is Director of Academic Affairs at the Tennessee Higher Education Commission/Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation. She holds a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership.

Hannah N. Smith, Classes of 2022 and 2024, is a Speech Language Pathologist Clinical Fellow at Morning View Village Transitional Care Center at Blount Memorial Hospital. Her degrees are in Theatre and a Master of Science in Speech Pathology.

McKenzie G. Templeton, Class of 2022, is a member of the 2024 Leadership Tennessee NEXT program. She is the Development Director at BRIDGE. Her degree is in Media and Communication.

Emily Beasor Boshears, Class of 2023, is Executive Director of Life Care Center of Red Bank, Tennessee. Her degree is in Health Administration.

Courtney Claybrook Colobro, Class of 2023, is the Director of Behavioral Health at Healing Hands Health. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing degree.

Nicholas R. Crockett, Class of 2023, had his RTVF Capstone Film, “Glass Valley,” accepted for the 2024 Film Fest Knox in Knoxville. His degree is in Media and Communication.

Ty F. DeBusk, Class of 2023, is Assistant Director of Athletic Ticketing for ETSU. His degree is in Sport and Recreation Management.

Taylor S. Dunn, Classes of 2016 and 2019, married Jeremiah A. Musick on November 2, 2024, in Limestone, Tennessee. Her degree is in Early Childhood Education. His degree is in Business Management.

Maria E. Farmer, Class of 2023, is Executive Director of The Heritage Center, a local skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility in Morristown. Her degree is in Health Administration.

Natalie A. Hale, Class of 2023, is the Corporate Events and Alumni Engagement Coordinator for Virginia Tech. Her degree is in Media and Communication.

KeiAndra G. Harper, Class of 2023, was selected for the Tennessee Governor's Management Fellowship Class of 2026. She is one of five selected from across the country to participate in the two-year program. Her degree is in Psychology.

Kaylee E. Henry, Class of 2023, is a student law clerk at the California Western Innocence and Justice Clinic. Her degree is in Rehabilitative Health Sciences.

Kaleb L. Jenkins, Class of 2023, is a Museum Specialist at Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum in Harrogate, Tennessee. His degree is in History.

Nicholas W. Miller, Class of 2023, is Assistant Athletic Director at Elizabethton High School. His degree is in Media and Communication.

Mason P. Mosier, Class of 2023, is a Pharmaceutical Sales rep for Alora Pharmaceuticals, LLC. His degree is in Political Science.

Logan M. O’Handley, Class of 2023, is a Children’s Leader Team Member at Youth Haven. His degree is in Psychology.

Dr. JacQuene M. Rainey, Class of 2023, has been appointed President of the Tennessee College of Applied Technology in Jackson. She holds a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership.

Dr. Tess Ann Simpson, Class of 2023, is an Assistant Professor of Developmental Psychology at Maryville College. She holds a doctoral degree in Psychology.

Breanna N. Roberts, Class of 2024, is Director for the Appalachian Highlands Women’s Business Center at the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce. She holds a master’s degree in Business Administration.

Madelyn M. Sefton, Class of 2024, is External Affairs Assistant to Tennessee Governor Bill Lee. Her degree is in Political Science.

Kloey A. Tester, Class of 2024, is Head Volleyball Coach for T.A. Dugger Junior High School in Elizabethton. Her degree is in Kinesiology.

Carter C. White, Class of 2024, is a Business Development Representative at Beck Technology. His degree is in Health Administration.

 

Read more incredible stories in the Winter 2025 Edition of ETSU Today. #BucsGoBeyond

ETSU Today | Winter 2025


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