Greetings from Dr. Grimes

We are delighted that you have chosen Barton College. We have some great activities planned for your first semester, including the First Year Seminar course. The FYS class for Fall 2008 will be grounded in the extremely entertaining Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen, a book full of surprising twists. Each of the FYS instructors has created a course that is connected to this book and also related to a particular academic discipline. Our FYS instructors exemplify the liberal arts ideal of being well educated people with specialized knowledge in a field of study but also a broad knowledge and appreciation of all aspects of experience. Through this course they will help you become part of the Barton College community of learners, as you get started on your journey toward becoming a college-educated person.

Terrence L. Grimes
Vice President for Academic Affairs
Barton College

The Power of Music: Blues, Rhythm and Blues, and Rock and Roll

The power of music is undeniable. We listen to music in our culture for lots of reasons – to soothe our stressed selves, to celebrate and have fun, to show our patriotism and build spirit, and to enhance our religious ceremonies. Some cultures have also used music for reasons such as communication with the spirit world and enticement of nature to provide good crops and other things necessary for success and a good life.

Every culture produces music that reflects the interests, needs, and conditions of its people. Our country, for example, has produced the blues, rhythm and blues, and rock and roll during the last century or so – music that has found its way into our mainstream and been influential world-wide. This music has also set the stage for today’s popular music. We will therefore trace the development of the blues, rhythm and blues, and early rock and roll in this course and discover something about our history.

At Barton I teach Music of the World’s Cultures and Music Survey in the classroom. I also teach piano lessons, play piano for the Barton College Choir, and chair the Department of Communication and Performing Arts. I have enjoyed great personal rewards as a Music teacher and a First-Year Seminar instructor, as I truly love working with students!

Janie Bostick
Chair, Department of Communication and Performing Arts
Associate Professor of Music
B.A., Meredith College
M.M., Converse College

Clay: The Vessel Speaks

Clay is a universal medium: potters and their vessels have formed an essential part of material culture worldwide. A vessel contains solid matter, liquid, or air. Humans are vessels – for food, for emotions, for ideas. Claywork is a rich record of human inventiveness and expression throughout the ages and across cultures. Object-making is beyond the verbal realm, tapping into our intuition.

In Pioneer Pottery, Michael Cardew, a potter with a philosophy degree from Cambridge University, states: “[Artists]...only know that art is about art; in this case, the art of pottery is about pottery. Unlike literary communication, an art does not carry a message: it is a message. If you still persist and ask the artist what the message is, he will be unable to satisfy you. If he could, it would not be necessary for the art to exist” (244).

Our FYS course will include reading, writing, and clayworking. Previous experience is not necessary – only a willingness to explore and grow. In a way, that’s a perfect metaphor for the start of your Barton College experience.

Study and travel have informed my artwork, serving as stimulus and inspiration. I have visited 20 countries to document traditional pottery making and have had the opportunity to share in the daily lives of traditional artisans working with native mud to make vessels.

Mark Gordon
Associate Professor of Art
B.A., Oberlin College
M.F.A., The Ohio State University

Exploring the Sports Marketing World

Have you ever wondered what goes into marketing a team or an individual of a team? This FYS class will explore different marketing tools used in the realm of sports. You will have a chance to be a sports agent, create a contract between you and your athlete, create a video of your athlete, and create an endorsement of some sort for your athlete. You will also have an opportunity to market a particular team, whether professional, college/university (Division 1 or 2), or high-school. Finally, you will develop a fundraising idea to help enhance an existing budget for your team.

Currently here at Barton College, I teach Athletic Training classes in our CATTE accredited Athletic Training Program. I am also responsible for athletic health care coverage of women’s volleyball and softball. In my free time I enjoy spending time with family, traveling and taking in different sites, reading about historical events, and being active in anything outdoors. I am excited about teaching FYS and exploring a different side of Sports through marketing.

Heather Levering Hartsell
Assistant Professor of Physical Education and Sport Studies
B.S., Mars Hill College
M.S., West Texas A&M University

Consciousness and Society

On the outer fringe of ideas about human behavior, some brave souls reach “outside the box” and view consciousness as more than what is experienced by the five senses. Their beliefs are usually very briefly mentioned in psychology textbooks with disclaimers about the difficulty of proving their views. In this course we will venture into the worlds of those who think that there is more to consciousness than what can be observed, measured, and statistically validated. Our focus will be on the collective unconscious paradigm of Carl Jung, the parallel dimensions recognized by some Native Americans, the premonitions and other paranormal phenomena that are espoused by those who claim to have psychic abilities, and many other unconventional areas of research in psychology. Join us as we venture through books, films, and guest speakers into a road much less traveled in psychology.

I began teaching Psychology courses here at Barton last year after completing my Ph.D. in Educational Psychology at the University of Georgia. My specific program area was Gifted and Creative Education. One of the most interesting experiences that I have had in my work in the field of psychology was counseling with Hopi Indians in Arizona. I found the Hopis to be intelligent, creative, and inspiring. I wrote a self-help book in 2001, and I am writing a book now about the tragedy of adolescent suicide. For fun I like to watch movies, write, read, jog, and tent camp. I have my motorcycle license and find that riding without the confines of an automobile makes me feel free – sort of an “outside the box” experience. I am drawn to non-traditional experiences, which explains why I created this course.

Laurie Hyatt
Assistant Professor of Psychology
B.A. and M.S., Pittsburgh State University
Ph.D., University of Georgia

What Does An Elephant Use His Trunk For?

The answer is many things: to smell, to feed himself, and to carry objects. His trunk is a diverse muscular organ with olfactory capabilities, and it is used much like an appendage in a human. I became fascinated with elephants while reading Water for Elephants, the 2008 summer reader. I am curious to learn more about elephants – not only about their unique anatomy but also about some of their phenomenal behaviors. Elephants demonstrate a strong social structure within the herd, long term memory for recognition of other elephants and locations, and amazing reasoning capabilities. Join me to learn more about these fascinating creatures as we explore the unique trunk and a wide range of common elephant behaviors.

My Ph.D. is in animal behavior. Although I usually work with animals a bit smaller than elephants (mammals primarily), I find their behaviors fascinating. I have always felt an incredible fondness for animals and have in the past worked for a cat breeder and for a veterinarian as well as volunteered at a private animal preserve. I am a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, so I often take care of a myriad of orphans or injured animals. My husband Michael and I live in what he has deemed “Noah’s Ark” with our greyhound, three cats, free-roaming outside tame squirrels, and any other creatures I am taking care of at the time.

Jane M. Kolunie
Chair, Department of Science and Mathematics
Professor of Biology
B.A., Wheaton College
Ph.D., Rutgers University

Current Issues in Society, Science, Technology and Business: Issues Today, Choices for Tomorrow

Issues that affect or have the potential to change our society are around us daily. Regardless of our chosen occupation – politician, sociologist, artist, engineer, nurse, teacher or business professional – making decisions involving controversial issues affects all of us. Some of these issues originate locally, while others are more globally encompassing, such as funding a local beach renouncement program versus the impact of global warming. The ability to consider, evaluate, and choose among various alternatives is a crucial part of our day-to-day life. Our class will review, investigate and debate the aspects surrounding such topics. For example, what alternative energy sources should the U.S. pursue? Should athletes serve as role models? Is it okay to drug test employees? Should America restrict immigration? Are social networking websites (e.g., MySpace and Facebook) positively or negatively influencing our society? During each discussion students will participate in an open dialogue, allowing participants to express their own viewpoints regarding the topic.

My professional career includes seven years of teaching for the School of Business at Barton College. Prior to coming to Barton I spent thirteen years in the communications industry. Specifically, I spent seven years designing, developing, and managing large technology-related programs. Later I spent six years in management, marketing, training, and global operations, all of which involved technology related projects. Through this journey I was exposed to a variety of interesting people and cultures. Outside of the classroom I enjoy traveling and spending time with my wife and my daughter. I also enjoy the outdoors and all types of sporting activities. In my spare time I volunteer or participate in local organizations such as the American Cancer Society, Coastal Conservation Association, Capital City Investment Group, and Toastmasters International.

Richard A. Lee
Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems
B.S., University of North Carolina at Charlotte
M.S., North Carolina State University
Ph.D., Northcentral University

The Spectacular Spectacle: When Britney Shaved Her Head and Other Atrocities

What draws us to a spectacle? Playing on the circus theme from the summer reader, Water for Elephants, I want to explore what it is about festivals, spectacles, and carnivals that we find intriguing. We will look at how festivals are part of cultures and consider what roles festivals have played throughout history. We will also look at what happens when we participate in these festivals, especially those where we hide behind masks. Finally, we will apply it all to what is happening today, including why we are so interested in our celebrities and the culture surrounding them and what happens when celebrities start to crumble. It is my hope that in examining our reactions to these issues we will learn about ourselves.

I am Director of the Hackney Library at Barton College. I have an undergraduate degree in Radio, Television, and Motion Pictures from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master’s Degree in Library and Information Studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. I am currently working on a Ph.D. at UNC-G in Cultural Studies. I enjoy examining popular culture – seeing how it influences our thinking and being and how we in turn have an influence on it.

Rodney Lippard
Director of the Willis N. Hackney Library
B.A., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
M.L.I.S., University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Your Life and Leadership

Do you have it? That thing that attracts others to your life and leadership? Do you know what leadership requires and the value in making it part of your everyday life? The purpose of this course is to provide participants with an introduction to the leadership skills needed by student leaders. The course attempts to effectively utilize the process of experiential learning with a strong emphasis placed on structured group activities, out-of-class observations, selected readings, and class discussions. At the completion of this FYS course students will have had the opportunity to: develop both a mental and emotional preparedness for the challenges associated with student leader positions; become aware of diversity in leadership styles and differences of perspective; understand the ethical implications of leadership; and develop the skills used by an effective student leader.

As the Vice President for Students Affairs I have the opportunity to work closely with outstanding student leaders, and I am continually reminded of the hard work and dedication of all our students on campus, from those who live in the residence halls, particularly RAs, to the Student Government Association, Greek organizations, and many other student organizations. As a former student leader I learned three things that I take with me still today: (1) to have the motivation to take advantage of the opportunity you have to affect the lives of others, (2) to maintain the humor to take you through the rough times, when all you can do is laugh, and (3) to understand how others have remained strong in times of crisis and challenges. This class is dedicated to all student leaders, past, present and future, who serve on the front lines, giving their time, sacrificing sleep, shedding tears, and building lifelong friendships with other students. You are the lifeline of this college, and you should never forget that you have the power to make a difference!

Jennifer Newell
Vice President for Student Affairs
B.A., State University of New York at Courtland
M.S., State University of New York at Buffalo

Healing Hearts with Healing Hands

As a first-year student at Barton College, you will face many new challenges and experiences. This may be an awkward time for you, being away from loved ones and living in a new location. Oftentimes all we need is a kind word or smile to feel like we are part of the community. We are all here to help each other to be successful and to accomplish our goals. In this course we will look at helping others while exploring careers in healthcare. Helping others is the essence of healthcare.

An assistant professor in the School of Nursing, I have the pleasure of facilitating learning as students work toward the goal of achieving a rewarding profession. I am a two-time graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill with a B.S. in Nursing and an M.S. in Nursing Education. I also have a B.S. degree in Accounting from none other than Barton College! My nursing specialty is intensive care, and my motto is “Lifelong Learning.” We continually learn every day, and there is no better example of this than in healthcare. So if you love to learn and help others, let’s get started!

Vanessa H. Rose, R.N.
Assistant Professor of Nursing
B.S.N. and M.S.N., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Ethics in Our Individual and Professional Lives

Ethics, which vary from person to person, are based on our individual social and cultural backgrounds. As you enter the professional world you will become an employee and/or an employer, and you will have decision-making responsibilities. Some decisions will be difficult and will require that you have an ethical stance to guide you. In this case-oriented course we will address issues such as employee privacy in the workplace, responsibilities to customers (regarding products and services), conflicts of interest, unfair or unfortunate justice problems, the environment, governments, and markets. Cases will be assigned to individuals and teams to research and address issues. We will have an open class forum to discuss the results. The goal is for each individual to recognize and understand his or her own set of ethics and to be able to use that knowledge in making ethical decisions in the future.

I am originally from the farmland of Robeson County, North Carolina and have had the wonderful opportunity to work with some great firms and governmental agencies. I have close to 30 years in Human Resources Management. Work experience includes private industry (Western Electric and AT&T Corporate Offices from North Carolina, Washington, D.C., to New York City, New York); federal experience (my last assignment being the Civilian Personnel Officer at Fort Pickett, Virginia); and local government experience (Human Resource Director of Harnett County and the City of Sanford). I was also a Certified Assistant Contracting Officer with the Army and a Certified Compensation Professional with World at Work.

My husband, John, and mini-schnauzer, Oliver, are the great loves and joys in my life. I love to teach, as I believe very strongly that everyone needs education and continued learning to maintain a high level of knowledge for themselves and their careers. During my career in Human Resources I taught multiple courses at the university level, and in 2003 I chose to change careers and instruct full-time. My husband and I moved to Wilson in August, 2007, and we love our new community.

If there is any way I can help you in this course, please feel free to contact me. See you in class.

Yvonne E. Shanks
Assistant Professor of Business
B.S., University of North Carolina at Greensboro
M.S., Rutgers University

Discovering Majors and Careers

When should I decide on a major? Do most college freshmen know what careers they want? Will my major determine my career for the rest of my life? These are just a few of the questions you may be facing. This First-Year Seminar course will answer these questions and more. I invite you to join me in exploring the key elements involved in choosing a major and a career: self-exploration, career exploration, decision-making skills, and goal setting. You will learn how your interests, values, skills, and personality relate to a career choice. You will also be introduced to career development theories and the role of work in your life.

I considered several majors and careers throughout high school and college. Ultimately, I chose to pursue my interest in higher education. After working in career development for six years, I entered my current position as Director of Student Success. I love seeing students explore new ideas and discover new possibilities. I look forward to sharing your journey at Barton College.

Angie Walston
Director of Student Success
B.S., Elon College
M.A., Appalachian State University

An Investigation of Effective Learning Principles as Enhancements to Student Learning

In this course students will learn about quality decision making tools that can increase academic achievement. Students will take an inventory in the Office of Career Services and use the results to explore their learning styles. We will form groups, and each will select a problem and work together to solve the problem utilizing problem-based learning techniques. Each group member will have the opportunity to explore the multiple intelligences and decide how to integrate findings in the problem-solving quest. By the end of the semester students will have an increased awareness of learning assessment inventories, styles of learning, problem-based learning techniques, and the theory of multiple intelligences.

I am an Associate Professor in the School of Education. I have a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership with advanced licensure as a school superintendent, principal, and curriculum and instruction specialist. I also have a Counselor of Advanced Studies degree. Both degrees were earned from East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina. My master’s degree is in the area of Administration and Supervision from North Carolina Central University in Durham, N.C. My graduate licenses are in History, School Counseling, and Learning Disabilities. My undergraduate degree is in Social Studies with a concentration in History and Political Science from Fayetteville State University in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Bettie J. Willingham
Associate Professor of Education
B.S., Fayetteville State University
M.A., North Carolina Central University
C.A.S. and Ed.D., East Carolina University

The Power of Vision

This FYS Class will focus on the power of vision. We will discuss what vision is and why it is the key to fulfilling your life’s purpose. An important goal is for you to create your personal vision plan. A famous quotation by Dr. Benjamin Mays states: “The tragedy in life doesn’t lie in not reaching your goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach.”

I had difficulty during my undergraduate years trying to figure out what my purpose in life was going to be. My mentor told me to take some time to discover that purpose. “You have to see it for yourself; I can’t give you the vision,” she would say. As I began my journey, I had to write down everything I needed in order to succeed. I had to write the vision, see it, and focus on it in order to plan my work. By doing this I created the plan by which I could live.

As Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs, I spend much time working with students for whom I become a sounding board and a mentor. I feel that I am able to guide them in fulfilling their dreams. It is my purpose in life to help inspire young people. Doing so gives me great joy!

The greatest influences on my life when I was a college student were the teachers who inspired me to dream the impossible dream and make it reality. There is an old African Proverb that says “Each One Teach One.” This proverb became a part of my life’s purpose.

I have a strong interest in inspiring college students to believe in themselves and to succeed far above their circumstances. It is my hope that by completing this course you may discover your personal vision and be a shining star for your family, your college campus, your community, and the world.

Holly Zacharias
Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs
B.S., Livingstone College
M.S., University of Akron

Please contact the Director of Student Success at 252-399-6313 if you have any questions.