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Basta Named to EC-Council CPENT Scheme Committee Board

Tigerville, SC (June 28, 2023) Dr. Nigel Basta, 91��’s (NGU) program director for cybersecurity, has been selected to serve on the EC-Council CPENT Scheme Committee Board.

His role on the committee will allow him to help write the Certified Penetration Tester (CPENT), a 24-hour examination that challenges candidates through real-world penetration testing and scenarios.

Only 92 individuals have earned CPENT certification, and just 34 have achieved more than 90 percent on the exam. Basta holds the highest score on the exam to date.

“The scope of the committee is to determine how we can enhance penetration testing,” Basta said. “We will be looking at future trends and how we can tie penetration testing to government compliance.”

EC-Council, an official academic partner of NGU, offers an Ethical Hacker certification, which Basta invented in 2005.

“In the real world, students are going to be working in a hybrid environment. They’re going to have routers to connect to the internet. They’re going to have Microsoft servers and Linux servers among other systems that perform different functions,” Basta said. “We would be doing our students a disservice by teaching them security from a vendor’s standpoint.”

Basta said the board appointment will help him better educate students in NGU’s Cybersecurity program.

“Knowing the trends in cybersecurity and where the field is going helps me develop curriculum for students,” he said. “Being aware of the trends around the world will help us prepare them to launch their careers quickly in the field of cybersecurity.”

“I’m so proud that 100 percent of our graduates sign a job offer before they graduate,” Basta said.

Basta said he is motivated by a desire to help others, especially vulnerable members of society.

“We can stop criminals from victimizing people. Unfortunately, the people I see being victimized the most are kids and seniors,” he said. “I want to give back to the community through my knowledge and experience to decrease the number of attacks we’re seeing against vulnerable citizens who just don’t have enough knowledge.”

The National Security Agency (NSA) Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense publishes the national gold standard for cybersecurity education. NGU’s cybersecurity program aligns with these standards to prepare its students for the field.

91��is an official academic partner of the EC-Council and CompTIA, providing access to more than 36 certification exams, from Ethical Hacker, Network Defender, and Encryption Specialist to CompTIA Fundamentals, Cloud Essentials, and more.

For information about NGU’s cybersecurity degree program, visit here.

About 91��

91��offers more than 125 areas of study across certificate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and early college opportunities. Online. In-person. At our main campus in Tigerville, SC, the Tim Brashier Campus in Greer, SC, or several educational centers around the U.S. One university, many locations. Every day. Epic. Learn more.

Alumni Spotlight: Lachuné Boyd Puts Her Talent on Display

Lachuné Boyd performing during 91��Theatre’s production of The 1940’s Radio Hour.

Lachuné Boyd has been impressing audiences with her talent since she was a kid.

“Growing up, singing was just something we all did,” the Darlington, South Carolina native said.��

Performing in church and with her family, Boyd recognized her gift and decided to pursue music professionally after high school.

“Everybody in my family still sings today,” she said. “I always knew it was something I was going to do.”

Attending 91��, Boyd graduated with a bachelor’s degree in music in 2016.

“While I was at North Greenville, I really enjoyed the idea of studying music in a context where you get to think about theology or music in a philosophical sense,” she said. “(When I graduated), I was looking for a place that was going to pose more questions in that arena, and that’s when I started raising my antennas about going to seminary.”

Boyd continued her education at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, where she anticipates receiving a Master of Music in Vocal Performance this fall.

“Learning how to be a musician and glorify God with my talents was always important for me,” she said.

“I once saw a clip of a performer singing the Lord’s Prayer in the National Cathedral. In the front row, you could see the Presidents and others who were present. People were so moved. I just thought, ‘Wow, what she’s doing is really bringing some sense of consolation to them.’ I just always wanted to be close to that experience where I’m offering something beautiful to people,” Boyd continued.

Now a vocal coach, the profession has landed Boyd on some big stages, including America’s Got Talent.

Boyd auditioned for the hit NBC show, and her performance airs Tuesday night (June 27).

“They were so nice,” Boyd said of the America’s Got Talent judges. “It was such a great experience. It felt comfortable. I felt like people truly wanted to know who I was and what I did, and I’m hoping that the audition, when it’s aired, connects with people.”

Boyd said her musical inspirations include John Coltrane and Leslie Odom, Jr. As she continues to pursue her passion and hone her skills, Boyd said she still wants to keep making an impact on others.

“Musicians run off adrenaline, but voice teaching fuels me in a way that helps me have even more creativity,” she said. “It continuously reaffirms that message that what I’m doing is meaningful and good. I’m not going to always be singing in a church, but I always want it to be a service to others.”

91��President��Confirmed��to South Carolina Higher Education Commission��

Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr., President

Tigerville, SC––The South Carolina Senate voted unanimously on June 14 to confirm North Greenville University (NGU) President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr., to serve on the South Carolina Higher Education Commission. Fant was nominated by the Hon. Henry D. McMaster, Governor of South Carolina.

Established in 1967, the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education is the coordinating board for the state’s 33 public institutions of higher learning. According to the commission’s website, the entity “acts both as an oversight entity on behalf of the General Assembly, and an advocate for the citizens of South Carolina as they seek opportunities to improve their lives, and those of their families, through higher education.”

The commission is governed by a 15-member board appointed by the governor. Fant will serve a two-year term, representing South Carolina’s independent higher learning institutions.

“It is an honor and privilege to be selected for the South Carolina Higher Education Commission,” Fant said. “I am deeply committed to promoting educational excellence and access for all students in our state. I look forward to collaborating with fellow commission members to address the challenges and opportunities facing higher education and to work together toward a brighter future for South Carolina’s students.”

With a 29-year career in higher education, Fant has served in faculty and administrative posts at both public and private institutions. Prior to becoming NGU’s eighth president in June 2017, Fant was the chief academic officer at Palm Beach Atlantic University for three years. His breadth of experience in the sector includes service on the boards of varied academic organizations.

The Laurel, MS, native worked with the Mississippi Institute on Law-Related Education at the University of Southern Mississippi before serving as assistant to the president at the public research university. He was a faculty member and chair of the English Department at Mississippi College before beginning a 12-year tenure at Union University, which concluded with four years as chief academic officer.

A prolific writer, President Fant has been a contributing blogger and essayist for The Chronicle of Higher Education since 2001 and has written more than 150 columns for newspapers and other publications. He alsohas written or contributed to more than a dozen books.

Dr. Fant earned a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from James Madison University, a master’s degree in English from Old Dominion University, a master of divinity degree from , and both the Ph.D. degree in English Literature and the master of education in educational leadership from the . In 2011, he completed the Institute in Educational Management at the .

In addition to these positions, Fant was one of the original curriculum developers of the Impact 360 Institute, an intellectually rigorous gap year program in service, leadership, and worldview sponsored by a foundation connected to Chick-fil-A. He currently serves on the institute’s board of education.

He also serves as commissioner for the South Carolina Tuition Grants Commission and is chair-elect for the International Association of Baptist Colleges and Universities, treasurer for the International Alliance for Christian Education, vice-chair of the Board of Directors and chair of the President’s Council for South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities, and a member of the Conference Carolinas Board of Directors. He also has served on several accreditation review committees for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools—Commission on Colleges.

“We are thrilled that Dr. Fant has been confirmed to serve on the South Carolina Higher Education Commission. This is a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional leadership and commitment to higher education,” said��91��Board of Trustees Chair Dr. Brian Spearman. “As chair of the Board of Trustees, I have��witnessed��firsthand��his��unwavering dedication to our university and his tireless efforts to advance academic excellence. We are confident that��he��will bring his��expertise��and passion to��this role,��shaping the future of higher education in South Carolina.”��

About 91��

91��Appoints Thomas as Vice President for Campus Ministries and Student Engagement

Tigerville, SC (June 22, 2023) 91�� (NGU) has named Dr. Jared Thomas Vice President for Campus Ministries and Student Engagement, 91��President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr., announced at this morning’s summer meeting of the university’s Board of Trustees. The appointment is effective July 1.��

“Dr. Thomas brings unusual experiences to this important role at the university. He is an alum, he holds a doctorate in counseling from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, he is deeply involved in leadership in his local church, and he loves students,” said President Fant. “We are excited to see how God’s preparation for his calling cultivates his leadership of this team that is integral to the equipping of transformational leaders for church and society.”��

A 2009 91��graduate, Thomas currently serves as assistant vice president for campus ministries and student engagement. He joined the university’s student life staff in 2014 and has filled a variety of posts during his tenure, including service as an adjunct professor of psychology and counseling. He moves to the vice-presidential post following the resignation of Jody Jennings, who has accepted a similar leadership role at another Baptist university.��

University leaders anticipate Thomas will continue to strengthen a unique administrative model which 91��formed in 2019, integrating campus ministries, student life, and residence life into one overarching unit.��

As vice president, the Gastonia, NC, native will work with 91��faculty, staff, and student leaders to expand campus ministries and student engagement initiatives. He will oversee the university’s chapel program, coordinate worship services and spiritual events, and collaborate with academic departments to integrate faith and learning. He also will be responsible for the Student Leadership Team, comprised of approximately 50 students, which was launched in 2021 to provide focused student-led residential and discipleship activities within housing units on the Tigerville campus.��

“I am honored and excited to lead the incredible CMSE team as we continue to seek to serve our student body,” said Thomas. “I look forward to continuing to invest in the lives of our students as they grow towards becoming the transformational leaders the Lord is calling them to be. I’m grateful to President Fant for this opportunity and am thankful for the influence Jody Jennings has had on my professional development.”��

Thomas earned a bachelor’s degree in Christian studies from NGU. He completed three advanced degrees from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary: a master’s degree in marriage and family, a master’s degree in theology, and a Ph.D. degree in psychology and counseling.��

His wife, the former Lindsay Ross, also is a 2009 91��graduate. They have four children. They are members of Christ Fellowship Northwest in Greenville, where he serves as a lay elder and missional community leader.��

Hollingsworth Receives NGU’s Hemphill Award for Denominational Service

Long-time Southern Baptist leader Gary Hollingsworth, third from left, received the Paula and Ken Hemphill Denominational Service Award from 91�� during the Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting on June 13. The honor was presented at an 91��alumni and friends dinner in New Orleans, LA. From left, Dr. Ken Hemphill, Paula Hemphill, Dr. Hollingsworth, and 91��President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr.

Tigerville, SC (June 22, 2023) Dr. Gary Hollingsworth, recently retired executive director-treasurer of the South Carolina Baptist Convention, received the Paula and Ken Hemphill Denominational Service Award from 91�� (NGU) during the Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting.

The long-time Baptist pastor and leader was honored during NGU’s alumni and friends dinner on June 13 in New Orleans, LA. More than 140 people attended the event at Mulate’s Original Cajun Restaurant.

The Hemphill Award recognizes “servant leadership empowering Southern Baptists’ kingdom growth.” It is named in honor of noted Southern Baptist ministry leaders Paula and Ken Hemphill. With careers spanning global missions, local pastorates, a seminary presidency, and writing books on varied Christian topics, the Hemphills are engaged in developing resources that enhance strategic work in evangelism and church revitalization.

Hollingsworth retired on April 30, 2023, after 47 years in full-time ministry. He had served as SCBC executive director-treasurer since January 13, 2016, based in Columbia. The Alabama native moved to South Carolina from Little Rock, AR, where he was pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church. His pastorates have included churches in Kentucky, Virginia, and Alabama. He also served as senior director of cultural evangelism at Southern Baptists’ North American Mission Board from 2005-2007.

“Dr. Hollingsworth, we are thankful for your leadership of South Carolina Baptists,” said Paula Hemphill during the award presentation. “You have done a great job and we are proud to be part of this state convention.”

91��President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr., noted Hollingsworth’s influence in nurturing a unified spirit across the state’s Baptist churches and entities.

“For those of you who are serving in South Carolina, I hope you understand what a blessing it is to be in South Carolina,” Dr. Fant said to the dinner guests. “We have a unity that is so unusual. Gary set a tone for collegiality and kingdom focus that was unparalleled in my experience. I watched him pastor pastors in a way that was really exceptional.”

“Gary, you have done a great job,” Fant continued. “We love you. Thank you for a job well done.”

Hollingsworth relocated to Trussville, Alabama, following his retirement from the SCBC. He currently serves in a part-time capacity as an ambassador for Mission Dignity, a Southern Baptist ministry to retired ministers and their widows.

The 91��dinner was one of a wide range of events associated with the Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting June 13-14 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans. A total of 12,737 individuals, representing 4,423 churches, registered as messengers for the annual meeting. Total attendance at the annual meeting was 18,901. A total of 524 of the convention messengers represented South Carolina Baptist Convention churches. The meeting was preceded by the SBC Pastors’ Conference June 11-12.

Dr. Daniel Dickard, a 2012 91��graduate, served as president of the Pastors’ Conference. 91��Provost Dr. Nathan Finn was recording secretary for the SBC Annual Meeting. Rev. Lamont Sullivan, 91��senior associate vice president for alumni engagement, served on the convention’s committee on committees.

About 91��

91��Hosts Upstate Homeschool Expo

Tigerville, SC (June 20, 2023) From robotics coding to ballet demonstrations, the 2023 Upstate Homeschool Expo had something for everyone.

More than 1,000 students and parents attended the Homeschool Community of the Upstate event, hosted by 91�� (NGU), in June.

“We love seeing the homeschool community enthusiastically engaging with our local homeschool educational resources,” said Carrie Knepper, board co-chair for the Homeschool Community of the Upstate. “It’s not every day that they get to talk to staff from these organizations in person and make those connections.”

Featuring a wide range of educational booths in Todd Dining Hall, breakout sessions, and mini field trips, the event provided students with an in-depth look at available curriculum and extracurricular activities.

Amy DeShong, owner and director of Cornerstone Ballet, attended the expo with a few of her ballet students. Cornerstone Ballet offers classes for students ages 2 and up. DeShong said about 20 percent of her dancers attend homeschool.

“A lot of times, ballet can seem unapproachable when you’re watching it up on the stage,” she said. “Being able to see the moves up close and interact with the dancers makes others realize that they too can be up on stage and participate.”

Technical College of the Lowcountry and 91�� Announce Transfer Agreement

Tigerville, SC (June 8, 2023) Officials with the Technical College of the Lowcountry (TCL) and 91�� (NGU) have signed an articulation agreement that enables TCL’s early care and education students interested in furthering their education to seamlessly transfer to NGU.

The agreement, signed on June 6, enables TCL students who have completed the college’s Associate of Applied Science in Early Care and Education degree program to easily transfer into NGU’s online Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Educational Studies program.

TCL students who transfer to 91��will be provided with advising and academic support for a successful transition and are eligible for a 10% discount on tuition, officials said.

“We are excited to partner with 91��,” said TCL President Dr. Richard Gough. “This partnership will certainly help us meet our mission of providing accessible, high-quality academic education and workforce training here in the Lowcountry.”

According to the , the number of childcare positions in South Carolina is expected to grow by 7.7% between 2020 and 2030, and the number of kindergarten teachers (except special education) is expected to grow by 9.9%. ��

91��Provost Dr. Nathan Finn said the university is also excited to be collaborating with TCL.

“This partnership benefits not only our respective institutions, but more importantly the children of South Carolina,” Finn said. “Our state needs to significantly increase the number of well-prepared early childhood educators in the Lowcountry. This collaboration between 91��and TCL helps meet that need and will ultimately contribute to the flourishing of our young people for years to come.”

Kelli Boniecki, TCL’s Early Care and Education Program Director said the agreement is a win-win for everyone involved.

“One of the facets of the agreement we’re particularly excited about is that NGU’s online bachelor’s degree program allows students who have graduated from TCL and enrolled at 91��to work on their field placement practicum work and student teaching here in our schools. That means many of our students are more likely to stay and continue to work in the area, and that’s something everyone is excited about,” she said.

Gough agreed with Boniecki.

“The transfer agreement and program will help meet the demand for early care professionals and teachers, and having enough teachers is something everyone can agree is vitally important to the health and economic viability of a community,” he said.

Early childhood education professionals play a critical role in helping children ages birth to six develop a strong base for lifelong learning and learning abilities, Boniecki explained. Early childhood education encompasses a wide variety of activities aimed at promoting a child’s cognitive and social development.��

Once students earn their bachelor’s degree, they are eligible to sit for the Early Childhood Education Praxis exam and can become certified to teach in a public school or other setting such as a childcare center, afterschool program or Head Start program.

To learn more about TCL’s Early Care and Education program, click .

To learn more about NGU’s online Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Educational Studies program click here.

About TCL

The Technical College of the Lowcountry is the region’s primary provider of higher education and workforce training. The public, two-year, multi-campus community college serves approximately 5,000 students annually. TCL has campuses in Beaufort, Bluffton and Hampton and serves Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper Counties. For more information visit��.

About 91����

Join 91��for Dinner in New Orleans June 13

Tigerville, SC (June 5, 2023) Alumni, friends, and their families will gather in New Orleans on Tuesday, June 13, for NGU’s annual Alumni and Friends Connect during the Southern Baptist Convention. ��Tickets are still available for the fellowship dinner at The World Famous Mulate’s Original Cajun Restaurant at 7 p.m. June 13. Mulate’s is at 201 Julia Street, diagonally across from the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

The menu for the evening will feature an array of New Orleans-inspired dishes, including mouthwatering Shrimp & Grits, Zydeco Gumbo, and other culinary delights. Guests will have the chance to savor the rich flavors of Cajun cuisine while enjoying the company of friends, family, and fellow 91��alumni.

“We are grateful to take the spirit of Christ and the mission of 91��to the birthplace of Jazz as we celebrate His work together,” said Assistant Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Engagement Lamont Sullivan.

During the dinner, 91��will present the Paula and Ken Hemphill Denominational Service Award to Dr. Gary Hollingsworth, retired executive director-treasurer of the South Carolina Baptist Convention. The award recognizes “servant leadership empowering Southern Baptists’ kingdom growth.”

91��President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. will provide an update on the university, offering insights into the latest developments, achievements, and plans of NGU. This is a unique opportunity for attendees to stay connected with the university and gain valuable insights into NGU’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence, spiritual growth, and community engagement.

Tickets for the family fellowship meal are $20 for adults and $7 for children age 4 to 12. Guests are encouraged to their space for this memorable event as soon as possible, as availability is limited.

In addition to the Alumni and Friends Connect, messengers to the SBC Annual Meeting can visit with 91��personnel and alumni at the university’s exhibit space in the Morial Convention Center. “Just look for the big rotating 91��logo when you come into the exhibit hall,” said Sullivan.

About 91��

91��offers more than 115 areas of study across certificate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and early college opportunities. Online. In-person. At our main campus in Tigerville, SC, the Tim Brashier Campus in Greer, SC, or several educational centers around the U.S. One university, many locations. Every day. Epic. Learn more.

91��Baseball Looks to Make More History in Cary

��

A Closer Look at The Donnan/COBE Project

Massive renovations continue inside 91��’s historic administration building, as university officials target a mid-fall completion for the Donnan/COBE Project.��

The fully revamped 19,000-square-foot building, situated at the highest point on the Tigerville campus, will serve as a permanent home for NGU’s College of Business and Entrepreneurship, providing contemporary classrooms, student gathering and collaboration spaces, COBE faculty offices, and an office suite for senior leadership. ��

“The design restores the building’s original mid-century modern aesthetic and the historic mural while adding contemporary features, translating the entire landmark for a new century of use as a place where transformational leaders are equipped,” said 91��President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. “The renovations are a perfect symbol of what we are doing university-wide: building on the past in ways that prepare for the future.”��

This spring, contractors have been working to install high-efficiency mechanical systems, upgraded electrical and networking systems, and new plumbing infrastructure in the building, which first opened in 1955.��

The infrastructure upgrades pave the way for complete interior and exterior renovations that will transform the facility. When finished, the project will double the amount of exterior glass, and add 2,600-square-feet of interior glass to the building, offering more natural light and opening vistas to Glassy Mountain in the distance.��

The $9.7 million Donnan/COBE capital campaign was launched in late 2022.

91��Baseball to Host Southeast Super Regional This Weekend in Tigerville

Upholding a Legacy of Service: NGU’s Summer 2023 Missions

Tigerville, SC (May 17, 2023) Continuing its legacy of “advancing the Kingdom of God,” 91�� (NGU) will again connect students to proclaim the Gospel to unreached people groups this summer.

91��will send more than 170 students to serve in over 40 camps, 20 mission organizations, and 34 churches in 15 states and 28 countries around the world.

“My hope is that 100% of 91��students would invest their summer in advancing the Kingdom of God.�� Those that do, always come back to the university ‘shined up’ after participating in ministry mobilization in whatever capacity – camp, church, or missions,” said Joshua Gilmore, 91��director of community connection and ministry mobilization.

“We have 82 students serving at Christian Camps, 47 students serving on the mission field, and 43 students serving in local churches,” Gilmore said. The total accounts for students who completed a “summer plans” questionnaire during the spring semester. Gilmore said the overall number of students serving in ministry roles is consistently greater than the number of survey respondents.

After successful mission trips to three continents during spring break in March, 91��will be sending teams on university-sponsored trips to Utah and Rome this summer through the Institute of Global Leadership (IGL).

Crystalyn Wyatt, assistant director of the IGL, said each team will aid communities in a different manner, all with the Gospel at the center.

The Utah team, led by Dr. Allen McWhite, Sr., executive director of the Institute for Global Leadership, is made up of eight students. Four will spend a week and four will remain for a month to earn practicum hours for their Intercultural Studies degree requirement.

“The Utah team will be working with Southern Baptists’ North American Mission Board missionaries and a church plant. They will be doing evangelism and developing relationships with locals and connecting them with long-term missionaries,” said Wyatt.

Melanie Floyd, a senior English major from Woodstock, GA, will travel with the Utah Team.

“I am most excited for the relationships that I will build with my team and for the people I will meet on this trip,” said Floyd. “I’m also excited to see how God will use this trip for his glory.”

Other U.S. states where 91��students will serve include Alaska, Arizona, Florida, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, and South Carolina.

Wyatt will be leading a group of students to Rome. They will be working alongside Greater Europe Mission’s missionaries.

“We will be doing evangelism, videography ministry, and performing music in coffee shops. Each form of ministry will be focused on connecting locals with long-term missionaries and believers in Rome,” said Wyatt.

Matthew Byrd, a strategic communication graduate from Zirconia, NC, is a member of the Rome Team.

“What excites me the most is the fellowship and [opportunity to] do ministry with my brothers and sisters in Christ who are actively sharing the gospel with the Italian people.”

In addition to Italy, other places where 91��will serve are Africa, Eastern Africa, Egypt, Guatemala, Honduras, Hungary, Indonesia, Mexico, North Africa, Papua New Guinea, Puerto Rico, Southeast Asia, Taiwan, United Kingdom, Wales, and Zambia.

91��students also will serve in camps across the U.S. including Awanita Valley; Bridge Camp; Camp Caba Wakpa, Fort Belknap, MT; Camp Kupono, Oahu, HI; Camp Miki, Indonesia; Camp Spearhead, Greenville, SC; Ridgecrest Conference Center, Black Mountain, NC; Woodlands Camp, Cleveland, GA, among others. ��

Other mission organizations include BBFI Mission, BCMGo, Church of God World Missions, Clayton King Ministries, Ethnos360, Frontline Missions, Global Education Ministries, Southern Baptists’ International Mission Board, Metropolitan New York Baptist Association, Southern Baptists’ North American Mission Board, Palmetto Collective, the South Carolina Baptist Convention, and in more than 34 churches across the Southeast.

About 91��

91�� (NGU) admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.