91Students Serve ‘As a Light in The Darkness’ on Three Continents During Spring Break

Tigerville, SC (April 11, 2023) Fifty-nine 91 (NGU) students, faculty, and staff traveled to Florida, Ecuador, and the Middle East during Spring Break in March, teaching English, sharing the gospel, and engaging with diverse urban communities.

A team of 19 traveled to Miami to evangelize in a city that is not only the third-richest metropolis in America, but it is also one with a 25% poverty rate. Students worked alongside members of local churches.

“Students learned from local pastors and missionaries who are living out the gospel in Miami about how to best share the gospel and begin gospel conversations in a uniquely diverse environment,” said Crystalyn Wyatt, associate director of the Institute for Global Leadership.

A particularly important goal of the trip, according to Wyatt, was “to discover ways of connecting individuals to the local church for on-going evangelism and long-term discipleship.”

Miami team members included Jacob Ertter, Brittany Hendricks, Brett Plyler, Mallory Arp, Noah Cole, Taylor French, Daniel Fulton, Shannon Hardin, Abigail Hepner, Michaela Lanier, Caleb Jeremiah Ledley, Katherine Palm, Chad Stratton, Natalie Taylor, Kyleigh Tokar, Espi Williams, Abigail Wilson, Aubrey Winstead, and Keagan Yarboro.

The 91Ecuador team had the opportunity to spend a few days in the Amazon Rainforest with the Waodoni tribe. They learned about the Waodoni’s way of life, encouraged believers, and experienced what it was like to be part of God’s global church.

“Students had the opportunity to learn and grow in their understanding of short-term mission with long-term impact. They were challenged on how to adapt to a new culture, conquer a language barrier, and rely on God when outside of their comfort-zone,” said Wyatt. “A few students also had the opportunity to share the gospel with the Waodoni and with other people in Ecuador.”

Wyatt was part of the Ecuador team, which also included Connor Graves, Hannah Staubs, Jaylan Brinson, Benjamin Bullard, Andrew Eaton, Ivy Emmerson, Haleigh Fields, Graham Ford, Morgan Funderburk, Dylan Gunton, Tessa Haack, Holly Hines, Hayden Jamison, Silas Jennings, Lexie Keiseler, Naomi Kreloff, Emma Lankford, Andrew Layne, Morgan Martin, Claira Mayhall, Abigail Staubs, and Abbey Williams.

Graham Ford, a junior digital media major from Gaffney, said Ecuador offered a unique learning experience.

“Being with the tribe for four days in the jungle was challenging at times, but they were so gracious and helpful the entire time. Watching the way the tribe was so patient with us was truly something that I will carry with me and try to replicate,” Ford said, “because even when we didn’t know what we were doing, they would correct us and teach us in the most loving way. They were reflections of Christ in that.”

A 91team also traveled to the Middle East to work with a local school, teaching English and encouraging the local teachers, staff, and administrators by providing much-needed school supplies and hosting a teacher appreciation banquet. Team members worked on building relationships with students and teachers in the school, and visited in local homes to demonstrate the love of Jesus and to seek opportunities to share about their faith in a place that does not encourage Christian witness.

Allen McWhite, executive director for the Institute for Global Leadership and team leader said, “This was a deep-level immersion into an area of the world that is dominated by another major world religion. This particular trip was part of a strategic partnership with this school that has been on-going for the past 11 years. This was our first trip back since COVID interrupted this partnership in 2020.”

McWhite accompanied 91students Shelbee Bryant, Shane Carpenter, Heather Cox, Ruthie Evans, Callie Gray, Marcus Hermanstyne, Rachel Johnson, Timothy Korneychuk, Abby McGillis, Noah Murphy, Abby Pollard, Jordan Pracht, Braden Shuffer, Emily Snodgrass, Emily Weaver, and Kristen Wilke.

Shelbee Bryant, a junior Intercultural Studies major from Salisbury, NC, said it was an eye-opening experience to be in the Middle East during the daily calls to prayer.

“I think the best way to sum it up is to quote Dr. McWhite. He said, ‘Jesus called us to be the light of the world, not the light of the Church.’ This is why our impact as believers was more evident there than in places like Tigerville, SC, that are clearly reached with the gospel,”Bryant said.

About 91

91offers 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.


91to Offer Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences This Fall

Tigerville, SC (April 4, 2023) 91 (NGU) will offer a new graduate program this fall.

Recently approved by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), NGU’s Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences (MABS) program will join the PA Medicine program in the university’s newly established College of Allied Health. 

“91seeks to offer academic programs that allow students to be well-prepared for their chosen professions and callings,” said 91President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. “This new program is excellent, providing an innovative, flexible approach to the curriculum. We look forward to adding these new students’ stories to NGU’s grand narrative of impacting students and our culture with distinctively Christ-first education. And we’re grateful for the leadership Dr. Hairr will give to both programs in his new role.”

The program will offer bachelor’s degree graduates a path to take prerequisite courses for professional schools at a graduate level.

“We are thrilled with the recent SACSCOC approval of the Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences degree,” said Dr. Jordan Hairr, Dean of the College of Allied Health at NGU. “This degree embodies 91’s commitment to academic excellence and service, through equipping the next generation of healthcare professionals with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to begin to transform the field of medicine.”

Those interested can apply for the fully-online, 33-credit-hour MABS program online at . The program, which takes 12-13 months to complete, will begin on June 1.

“For those thinking about becoming a physician assistant or attending medical school, this program provides that majority of the science courses needed,” said Dr. Cathleen Ciesielski, MABS program coordinator and professor at NGU. “Most people don’t realize how competitive physician assistant programs are. Nationwide, anywhere from three to five people are interviewed for one seat in a class. Programs like this help strengthen applications and show competency, while providing students with a degree they can use in the field of healthcare.”

91’s Physician Assistant program has produced more than 130 graduates over the past 5 years and maintains Accreditation-Continued status from The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc. (ARC-PA).

“Since its inception in 2017, PA Medicine has been a flagship program for the University,” said 91 Provost Dr. Nathan Finn. “The new Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences will create an accessible pathway for students to enter into a variety of health professions.”

For more information on the program, email MABS.program@ngu.edu. For admissions information or instructions about application requirements, email MABS.admissions@ngu.edu.

About 91

91offers 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.


91 Hosts Upstate Homeschool Science Fair

Tigerville, SC (March 31, 2023) 91 (NGU) hosted the Upstate Homeschool Science Fair earlier this month, providing students of all ages with an opportunity to present projects and demonstrations at various skill levels.

“We are a collaborative group that works collectively to plan events, field trips, clubs, and so much more to benefit our children and their schooling journey,” said Jessica Silva with the Homeschool Community of the Upstate. “With Co-ops, Homeschool Associations, Classes, Tutoring Programs, and so much more represented at this event, it is an opportunity for learning, growth, and coming together to meet like-minded people and maybe some new friends.”

Students were encouraged to “show and share” what they were learning at the event, which was designed to fill a need within the community.

“Many parents love the camaraderie of larger events but sacrifice the possibility of that when they choose to homeschool,” Silva said. “One of our many goals is to remove that barrier and feeling of sacrifice by incorporating large events.”

The Homeschool Community of the Upstate will host an Expo at NGU’s Tigerville campus on June 1 from 4-8 p.m.

“It is an event offered to fully immerse parents in the offerings of the Upstate to our Homeschooling Families at large,” Silva said. “It can often be overwhelming to jump into Homeschooling headfirst, as many parents do. This is a chance to show parents they aren’t doing this alone.”

Silva said the Homeschool Community of the Upstate would be looking to incorporate more large-scale events in the future.

“We have a new club program being offered on Thursdays, and we look forward to that continuing next fall,” she said. “We are so grateful to the volunteers, board members, and parents who put so much energy and effort into these events and ensuring cohesion for our children.”

About 91

91offers 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. To learn more, visit ngu.edu.


‘A Handbook of Theology’ Available on April 1

Tigerville, SC (March 31, 2023) Featuring essays from dozens of evangelical leaders, “A Handbook of Theology” will be released on April 1. The handbook will serve as a reference work for pastors, students, and those in ministry.

“We invited almost 50 contributors to participate in this project. Some of them are younger scholars and others are leading scholars in their respective fields. Each entry offers a summary of the topic along with recommended readings for further study,” said 91 Provost Dr. Nathan A. Finn, who serves as one of the book’s three editors, alongside Dr. Daniel L. Akin, and Dr. David S. Dockery.

“Our goal was not to go as deep as we could on any topic, but to provide a helpful entryway into each topic,” he said.

The book is divided into six parts: Theological Foundations; Types of Theology; Theology, History, and Geography, Christian Doctrines; Theology and the Christian Life; and Theology and Culture. The entries cover a wide range of topics, such as: God’s existence, systematic theology, global theology, the Trinity, spiritual formation and discipleship, and racial reconciliation.

“Because God is the ultimate Object of study in theology, learning theology should help us to love Him more, love the church more, and love the spiritually lost more,” Finn said. “It is especially true that Christian leaders should have a firm foundation in sound doctrine so that they can both be mature in their faith and help others to love and follow the Lord.”

In addition to his role as an editor, Finn contributed an entry on Sanctification. NGU’s Dr. Matthew Wireman, Associate Dean for the School of Ministry, wrote on the topic of Glorification.

“There are entries on the various categories of theology, the classical doctrines, and the intersection of theology with other topics,” Finn said. “We believe this is the most extensive theological handbook of its kind written from an evangelical perspective.”

Finn emphasized that the study of theology should not merely be academic in nature.

“I tell both students and church groups that while theology is certainly an academic discipline, it is not intended primarily for the academy,” Finn said. “Theology is ultimately thinking rightly about God and His world for the sake of living rightly before God in His world.”

About 91

91offers 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. To learn more, visit ngu.edu.

 


Fant Says the Image of God Is Revealed in Shared Human Experience

Tigerville, SC (March 21, 2023) Stressing that humanity’s ability to share experiences spanning time and place underscores our creation in the image of God, 91 President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr., took students through part of his own life story during a chapel message in early March.  

President Fant explored “The Image of God and the Liberal Arts” in his address concluding the university’s annual Christian Worldview Week. He used a brief tour of his personal journey – featuring childhood photos and a description of his first date with his wife – to demonstrate “everybody has stories.”  

“Each of us has a story to share. Each of us is human. Each of us is a creation of God, with a unique relationship with God,” he said, connecting to Genesis 1:27, that God created people in the image of God (Imago Dei). 

A long-time English professor, Dr. Fant explained that the liberal arts – including the study of literature, languages, philosophy, history, mathematics, and sciences – point to shared experiences.  

In relating the image of God to liberal arts, he said literature is “the written expression of shared human experience. History is the preservation and recovery of shared human experience. Sociology is the systemic study of shared human experience. All of the liberal arts could follow a similar pattern of definition.”  

“I often say the primary value of the liberal arts in context of the Imago Dei is what I have called intellectual empathy. This is the emotional bond that we feel with others when we realize that others are really like us.  

“This shared human experience is what unifies the humanities and liberal arts and is central to my teaching philosophy and my philosophy of life,” Fant told the students.  

He contrasted “exhausting” contemporary trends of personal attack with the “encouragement” in the awareness of common connections.  

“The idea of shared humanity is no longer mainstream in our culture,” Dr. Fant said. “We are constantly pitted against each other, such that we are encouraged or even bullied into thinking that other people are less than persons.” Decrying personal attacks through social media, he said “it is exhausting because it is not what we were designed for.”  

“The liberal arts are a way to honor the image of God that we all bear … emphasizing the fact that all humans are, in fact, brothers and sisters.  

“When we recognize our shared humanity, we flourish. We find encouragement and energy. That’s because it is rooted in our unique foundational relationship with each other and also in our relationship with God,” he explained. “God made us in His image. He made us in His image.   

In addition to sharing the image of God, we also all share sin and the effects of sin on our lives and the world itself. But the good news is that God also offers to us forgiveness of sin! This is the story of the gospel itself. God is the origin of all that is truly loving, that is truly flourishing. It’s not enough to see that He loves us, but we are called to funnel and channel that love into others,” he concluded. “One of the ways that we love others is by listening to their stories, by sharing experiences together, and recognizing the image of God that each of us bears.”  

Each spring semester, NGU’s Christian Worldview Week features a series of presentations from noted speakers, celebrating the foundational truth the school is built on: that God is the source of all truth. 

About 91

91offers 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. To learn more, visit ngu.edu.


Yancey Expresses Hope for Moving Beyond Racial Division During Annual Christian Worldview Week

Tigerville, SC (March 20, 2023) Expressing hope for methods that build deep, lasting roots through mutual accountability, Dr. George Yancey, professor of sociology at Baylor University, proposed a “third way” to overcome racism in two presentations at 91’s Christian Worldview Week in early March.

Drawing upon biblical concepts and reflecting on findings from his sociological research, Yancey said collaborative conversations in a mutual accountability model can reduce racial division, offering an option to what he cited as the controversial solutions of either colorblindness or antiracism.

“We have to be productive, not destructive in our conversations,” said Yancey. “To convince others, we have to build rapport, identify areas of agreement, admit when an opponent has a good point, understand their arguments, and look at what a person wants below the surface.”

He said efforts at colorblindness and antiracism have not been very effective in addressing racial tensions in the United States. Noting from his research the conclusions that colorblindness ignores the realities of race and the history of injustice, while antiracism centers racial concerns and in so doing often alienates people who need to be involved in the process,  Yancey proposed an alternative approach to racial relations where all parties contribute and are mutually accountable to one another for societal well-being.

He also explored a larger vision for a Christian educational institution like North Greenville, and how local churches can engage in the solutions that make the most sense for their unique congregations.

“Teach people of all races how to work through racial problems, model healthy handling of racial problems, and produce Christian leaders who chart a truly biblical path toward racial reconciliation that will eventually impact our society and prepare a multiracial church for a post-Christian world,” he said.

He added that history and societal complexity mean that different participants may have different kinds of responsibility, but all are involved in seeking the common good for all to thrive, avoiding unilateral decisions that close off dialogue.

Yancey is the author of the book “Beyond Racial Division,” published by InterVarsity Press. He has published several research articles on the topics of institutional racial diversity, racial identity, academic bias, progressive Christians and anti-Christian hostility.

NGU’s annual Christian Worldview Week features a series of presentations from noted speakers, celebrating the  foundational truth the school is built on: that God is the source of all truth.

About 91

91offers 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. To learn more, visit ngu.edu.


91Band Joins Furman Basketball in NCAA Tournament Appearance

Photo by Anthony Stone

Tigerville, SC (March 16, 2023) 91’s (NGU) band will swap its traditional red and black attire for something a little more purple on Thursday.

Led by 91Band Directors Gary Rhoden and Dr. Darian Washington, 21 91students and seven Furman students will play the fight song for the Paladins as the Furman men’s basketball team takes the court against fourth-seeded Virginia in the first round of the NCAA Tournament in Orlando, Florida.

The North Greenville band is filling in for Furman’s band, which is playing in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland this week.

“In late January, we got a call that we might be needed,” Rhoden said. “Once we got the go-ahead on our end, I asked the kids if they wanted to go. There was a pretty enthusiastic ‘yes.’”

Furman’s trip to Ireland had been planned for more than two years, so when the Paladins concluded a stellar 27-7 season and secured an NCAA Tournament appearance, they knew needed some help from their neighbors.

“We’re so close. While Furman is a Division I school and 91is a Division II school, we’re just 20 minutes down the road,” Rhoden said. “As far as the band world goes, there’s not enough of us to not help each other out. We have to be there when somebody needs help. The Furman basketball team needed somebody, and we were happy to step in.”

Knowing a trip to Orlando was on the line, the 91band might’ve been cheering harder for Furman than they typically do during the Southern Conference championship game.

“The students actually had a watch party in the lobby of the music building,” he said. “There was definitely a big reaction.”

NGU’s band led Paladin fans during the selection show on Sunday, and hopped on a plane with the team on Tuesday.

“It’s been a whirlwind. We’ve never done anything with the NCAA on this scale. It’s a lot of being told where to go and what to do. We’ve just been holding on for the ride,” Rhoden said.

“I’m so happy for the students,” Washington added. “A lot of them have never been on a plane before and this is the biggest crowd they’ve played in front of in their lives. It’s a wonderful experience for them and they’re having a wonderful time.”

With North Greenville alum Bob Richey (’06) coaching the Paladins and Rhoden, a Furman alum, leading the marching band, the connection between the two schools runs deep.

“It’s crazy how this turned out. I can only thank the good Lord that He’s put me in a position to do something like this,” he said. “I never thought in a million years that I would be taking the Furman band and the 91band to Orlando to play at the NCAA tournament, but it’s an exciting thing for our students.”

While NGU’s band will be wearing purple on Thursday, they’ll be adding their own flair to the performance.

“We’ve learned some of what Furman does. We’ve got some rehearsals planned to get some things ironed out, but by and large, this is still the North Greenville band,” Rhoden said. “We’re going to be doing a lot of the things we do at home, because it’s what we do well.”

Rhoden and Washington hope the band’s efforts are enough to lead Furman to an upset victory over the Cavaliers.

“The students are ready,” Washington said. “We know we’re a Division II school, but we want to show everyone that we’re prepared and we’re just as good.”

“We’re just happy to be here. I would love for Furman to become the upset darlings and for us to play two games down here. That plane ride back would be crazy,” Rhoden added.

About 91

91offers 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. To learn more, visit ngu.edu.


91 and Tri-County Technical College Announce Partnership

Tigerville, SC (March 9, 2023) Tri-County Technical College and 91 (NGU) officials signed a first-of-its-kind articulation agreement this week that enables the transfer of Tri-County students to NGU’s Educational Studies online bachelor’s degree program.

What makes this partnership unique is that all course credits associated with Tri-County’s Associate of Applied Science in Early Care and Education degree program transfer to NGU’s Early Childhood Education bachelor’s degree program. Plus, Tri-County students who transfer to NGU’s online bachelor’s degree program are eligible for a 10% discount on tuition. The flexibility associated with online courses is particularly valuable to Tri-County students who are often balancing school with work and family obligations.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to collaborate with our colleagues at Tri-County Technical College,” said 91Provost Dr. Nathan Finn. “There is a critical need in South Carolina for more teachers in our public schools. Through this strategic partnership, prospective teachers will have access to an affordable and flexible education, which will in turn enable them to invest in the next generation as early childhood educators.”

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

“Early childhood education is an essential building block of a child’s future success, and the demand for these types of educators continues to grow,” said Dr. Jackie Blakley, dean of TCTC’s Business and Public Services Division.

According to the Center for the Study of Child Care Employment, employment in the childcare sector continues to lag behind overall employment. In fact, childcare employment today is 5.5% below what it was in February 2020. At the local level, there is a steady and rising demand for early education professionals. According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s employment projections website, 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%.

“As a community college, it is Tri-County’s role to meet the workforce needs of our region,” said Dr. Blakley. “We are proud to partner with 91 to create a pipeline of early childhood educators who can serve our region while ensuring a seamless transition for our students.”

Twenty-two-year-old Ciera Dudziak of Anderson will graduate from Tri-County this spring with her A.A.S. degree in Early Care and Education and has already been accepted into NGU’s online bachelor’s degree program.

“I work two jobs, so NGU’s online program works well for me because of the flexibility it offers, plus they accept all of my course credits,” said Dudziak. “91also has paid internship opportunities, which I can do in Anderson, which is another big highlight for me.” 

Once Dudziak completes the online bachelor’s degree program at NGU, she is eligible to sit for the Early Childhood Education Praxis exam. Upon passing the exam, she is certified to teach in a public school or other setting such as a child care center, afterschool program, Early Head Start or Head Start. Her goal is to teach in a kindergarten classroom in Anderson.

To learn more about Tri-County’s A.A.S. in Early Care and Education program and the transfer agreement, visit .

About 91

91offers 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. To learn more, visit ngu.edu.

About Tri-County Technical College

Tri-County Technical College, a public two-year community and technical college serving Anderson, Oconee and Pickens Counties in South Carolina, enrolls more than 9,000 students annually and offers more than 70 major fields of study, including computer technology, industrial electronics, mechatronics, nursing, and university transfer programs. Tri-County boasts the highest student success rate among two-year colleges in the state and ranks in the top one percent nationally for successful student transfers to four-year colleges and universities. To learn more, visit .


NGU, CSU Represented in World Baseball Classic This Month

91President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr., (left) and CSU President Dr. Dondi E. Costin (right) unite to cheer for their students competing for the Czech Republic in the World Baseball Classic.

Tigerville, SC (March 7, 2023) When the World Baseball Classic begins March 8, the global tournament will feature 600 players on teams representing 20 nations, including a bevy of Major League Baseball stars, and two standouts currently playing for South Carolina Baptist universities.

91’s Marek Chlup and Charleston Southern University’s Daniel Padysak are members of the Czech Republic’s team which starts play in the Tokyo Dome on March 9. They are in a five-team pool which could well put Chlup, 2022 Conference Carolinas Player of the Year, in the batter’s box versus MLB superstar Shohei Ohtani. Or Padysak, a right-handed pitcher, could be on the mound versus the Japanese phenom.

Having two student-athletes representing their institutions on the international stage is a milestone the presidents of CSU and 91are enjoying.

“We often talk about how our universities impact the world, how our campuses receive students from around the globe who come to be built up and are then sent to the ends of the earth,” said CSU President Dr. Dondi E. Costin. “The fact that both North Greenville and Charleston Southern have student-athletes playing in the World Baseball Classic is extraordinary and demonstrates that God’s hand is on both our universities.”

“College athletics are a front door to our institutions for so many people, so the attention these young men are receiving is special for us, too,” said 91President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. “We are delighted to see Marek and Daniel on the global stage this spring. Like the rest of our students, we want them to be equipped for every opportunity, and to understand that their exceptional talents are a gift from God.”

Chlup, 23, is a 6-4 outfielder from Cesky Dub, Czech Republic. He will be seeking a second championship in less than 10 months, as he was on the field when 91won the 2022 NCAA Division II World Series last June. He helped his home country’s team qualify for the World Baseball Classic with a home run in a 3-1 victory over Spain last fall.

“Marek is a great teammate and an outstanding individual,” said 91Head Coach Landon Powell. “He has adapted well to our campus community and is a key part of our team’s overall success. We are excited for him to have this opportunity.”

Padysak, a 6-5 hurler from Prague, is no stranger to international competition. The 23-year-old represented his home country in the 2020 Olympic Qualifiers. He had pitched 10 shutout innings for the Buccaneers this season – with a 1-0 record and a save – before heading to Japan for the WBC.

“What a terrific experience for Daniel not only to represent his country but also to compete on such a stage against some of the best in the world,” said CSU Head Coach Marc MacMillian. “I know he’s excited, and we are happy to support this opportunity.”

The 2023 WBC is the fifth-ever, after the international competition started in 2006. It is the first since the United States won the title in 2017. Pool play will be March 8-15 in Tokyo; Taichung, Taiwan; Phoenix, AZ, and Miami, FL. The semifinals are March 19-20 at loanDepot Park in Miami, with the championship game slated for March 21. For more information, visit mlb.com/world-baseball-classic.

“It is, indeed, fun to list the names of some of the WBC participants,” said President Fant. “Freddie Freeman, Shohei Ohtani, Daniel Padysak, Marek Chlup, Mookie Betts, Mike Trout and Clayton Kershaw are all competing in the same global tournament. The founders of CSU and 91could not have imagined their students in this arena.”

About 91

91offers 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.


91Community Leaves its Mark on Donnan/COBE Project

Tigerville, SC (March 6, 2023) Celebrating the transformation of 91’s historic administration building into a new home for the College of Business and Entrepreneurship (COBE) and senior executive offices, the 91community left its mark on the Donnan/COBE Project last Thursday afternoon, participating in a prayer and dedication ceremony on the Tigerville campus.

91students, faculty, staff, donors, and board members had the opportunity to permanently inscribe their names, prayers, and scriptures on an 18-foot steel beam that will be used to complete the $9.7 Million Donnan/COBE Project. The university’s administration building was first opened in 1955.

“This is a historic building in a historic location at a historic college,” said 91President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. “This beam is going into a building that’s been here for 65 years—half of NGU’s entire existence—and we hope it will be here for another 100 plus years.”

The ceremony featured a welcome from Vice President of Advancement and University Engagement Marty O’Gwynn, and an invocation from Dr. Jonathan Keisler, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Business Programs.

91Board of Trustees Chairman Dr. Brian Spearman opened the program by reading Philippians 3:12-14.

“This is a big day. To walk through the building now and remember what it was like as a student, it is exciting,” Spearman said. “Today, we are all called to look at what Christ has for us. Let’s press forward for what is ahead, but let’s keep our eyes on Jesus Christ in everything we do.”

Marcus Hermanstyne, a senior interdisciplinary studies major and the university’s Student Body President at NGU, offered a student’s perspective on the importance of the project.

“The Donnan renovation is just one more opportunity to foster community here on campus,” Hermanstyne said. “When it’s all completed, it won’t just be a nice building, but a place where disciples are made, hearts are changed, and the Gospel is spread. As a student, I’m grateful to be at a university where we keep the main thing the main thing. And that is Christ.”

President Fant noted during his remarks that the renovated building will be a great resource for those who are pursuing careers in business.

“While we are biblically faithful, we are equipping students to pursue any calling God gives them,” Fant said. “We have unbelievable school teachers that leave this place. We have unbelievable doctors and lawyers that leave this place. Yes, we have unbelievable ministers and missionaries who leave this place in service to the kingdom, but all of these are callings that God gives us.”

Dr. Steve Crouse, NGU’s Senior Campus Minister, concluded the ceremony by leading the attendees in a guided time of prayer for various aspects of the project.

The Donnan/COBE Project will provide five contemporary classrooms; student gathering, meeting, and collaboration spaces; and faculty offices for the College of Business and Entrepreneurship, which enrolled nearly 500 students in the 2022-23 academic year. The new office suite for senior administrators will bring NGU’s chief executive, operating, academic, and financial officers, as well as general counsel, under one roof.

Situated at the highest point on NGU’s campus in northern Greenville County, the Donnan Administration Building opened in 1955. The 19,000-square-foot two-story facility has housed the president’s office, and NGU’s business office throughout its history. It has provided several classrooms, also serving as the previous home to the university’s Hester Library.

“This building was designed at a very specific point in the life of the university,” said President Fant. “This building was recognized for its outstanding design when it was built. The mural that was added to it also received recognition for its artistic merit. What we realized quickly with this project is that we could preserve the best of the history of this building, even as we prepared for the best future use of this building.”

The Donnan/COBE Project was designed by Greenville’s Equip Studio, and is being managed by Jones Lang Lasalle (JLL). Hood Construction is providing general contractor services.

The project is expected to be completed this fall, with the building opening to students for the spring 2024 semester.

The Donnan/COBE capital campaign was launched in 2022.

About 91

91offers 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.


91Board Affirms Core Statements, Approves Spring Graduation Candidates

Tigerville, SC (March 3, 2023) Affirming the university’s Statement on Human Flourishing, approving 286 candidates for spring graduation, and joining for a prayer and dedication ceremony at the site of a major campus renovation project highlighted the spring meeting of 91’s board of trustees on NGU’s Tigerville campus Thursday, March 2.

The meeting began with a devotion from Dr. Cary Sanders, executive director of JUMPSTART, a Christian nonprofit assisting current and former prisoners with re-entry to society. At the age of 17, Sanders committed an armed robbery which landed him in prison for nine years. He turned to Christ early in his incarceration and had the opportunity to pursue a college education at North Greenville after his release. He earned a bachelor’s degree in 2017, and a Doctor of Ministry degree in the fall of 2022.

In his update to the board, 91President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr., said the university had a “tremendous start” to the spring semester.

“There are many incredible things going on,” he said. “It is amazing to see the spirit among the students. We are hearing about what is happening students’ lives or their work in local churches. It really is a humbling experience to hear these reports.”

Noting that in 2025 91Football will join the university’s other 19 sports in Conference Carolinas, Dr. Fant said the conference’s announced expansion to 15 schools will be a major benefit to 91student-athletes. The conference will begin geographical division play in the 2023-24 academic year.

“This will help all of the university’s athletic teams,” the president said. “It is going to reduce student-athlete travel by as much as 20 percent starting next fall. That is huge.”

The board unanimously voiced support for two 91guiding documents: the university’s Statement on Human Flourishing, adopted by the 91board in June 2020, underscoring the institution’s deep-rooted commitment to a biblical worldview; and the Baptist Faith and Message 2000, the most recently approved version of a document designed to serve as Southern Baptists’ “statement of faith and message to set forth certain teachings which we believe.”

Trustees were updated on academic program activities during the meeting, including the appointment of Jordan Hairr as founding dean of the university’s College of Allied Health, which will launch on June 1, 2023. Hairr moves from his post as program director for NGU’s Physician Assistant program. He will be succeeded by current 91faculty member Kaye Rickman, who has been appointed as program director for PA Medicine. Additionally, Dr. Cathleen Ciesielski, a current member of the PA Medicine faculty, was recently appointed program coordinator for biomedical sciences. Ciesielski will develop and provide administrative oversight to NGU’s new master of arts degree in biomedical sciences.

Trustees also were updated on various administrative areas of the university. With three months remaining in the academic year, 91has received more than $4.9 million in contributions, a 9.4 percent increase over 2022. The university has seen an enrollment increase in the spring semester, and anticipates another increase for the fall 2023 semester.

Dr. Brian Spearman, trustees chair and pastor of the First Baptist Church of Marietta, presided at the meeting of the 25-member board. He opened the plenary session by reading from Philippians 3:1-17, encouraging fellow board members and university administrators to “press on” to the work God had called them to complete.

Spearman closed the meeting with a challenge to trustees and administrators to fulfill their calling to serve others.

“That’s what Christ calls us to be,” he said. “I encourage you to press on, to be a servant wherever you are. … Can you imagine what can happen if each one of us truly took the call that Christ has given us?”

Following the meeting, board members participated in a “Prayer and Dedication Ceremony” in front of the university’s Donnan Administration Building, which is undergoing a $9.7 million renovation to become the home of NGU’s College of Business and Entrepreneurship. Approximately 100 people participated in the ceremony, which including writing Bible verses or short messages on a steel beam which will be used in the construction project.

About 91

91offers 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.


91to Host Christian Worldview Week March 6-8 in Tigerville

Tigerville, SC (March 3, 2023) 91 (NGU) will host Christian Worldview Week March 6-8 in Turner Chapel.

“One of NGU’s Core Values is ‘Biblically Faithful.’ For a generation, we have highlighted this by hosting a special-themed chapel series each spring,” said 91President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. “This year’s sessions highlight one of the most important concepts in Christianity, the ‘imago Dei.’ This is the idea that every person bears the image of God, reflecting the unique relationship that we all have with our Creator.”

The event will feature lectures from Dr. George Yancey, Professor of Social Sciences at Baylor University; Dr. David Entwistle, Distinguished Professor of Psychology at NGU; and President Fant.

“At NGU, we believe that ‘Christ Makes the Difference’ because he created everything, holds everything together, and has given us the opportunity to know him more by pursuing excellence in every academic discipline that is studied on our campus,” said Dr. Donny Mathis, Dean of Faculty Development at NGU. “During Christian Worldview Week, our community sets aside focused time to remember the foundation stone upon which our university is built so that we can renew our mission to cultivate transformational leaders for church and society.”

Dr. Yancey will open the week on Monday at 10 a.m. with a discussion about the Christian approach to race relations.

“Christians have a lot to offer, if we are willing, in the area of race relations,” Yancey said. “We’re going to look at how the rest of the world has handled race relations and provide evidence of how it hasn’t worked. Then, we make the argument about how we have a better solution as Christians.”

Yancey will also speak Monday night from 7-8 p.m. in Turner Chapel.

“When we appreciate our fallen nature as humans, we become less confident that we are always right. Part of the problem we have with race relations is that people think they’ve figured it all out,” Yancey said. “We have to learn how to have conversations in a more productive manner. We have to have discussions with people in hopes of understanding them, rather than just scoring political points or winning the debate.”

Dr. Entwistle will be the featured speaker on Tuesday night, discussing the glory of God’s creation and how it shapes the Christian worldview.

“Evangelical theology has often tended to focus more on the brokenness of humanity than on the glory of humanity,” Entwistle said. “Not surprisingly, this state of affairs has led to integrative efforts that concentrate on the darker side of human nature and tend to neglect what is admirable and noble in human nature. A more complete view is needed that celebrates humans’ positive features as creatures who bear the image of God, while simultaneously recognizing the pervasiveness of sin and its effects.”

President Fant will conclude the event by speaking in chapel on Wednesday at 10 a.m.

“These chapels remind each of us that we are deeply loved, but also that the life of the intellect is important to our discipleship,” President Fant said. “We look forward to reflecting on how we understand our shared humanity from a variety of perspectives.”

For those who are unable to attend, a stream of each lecture will be available at go.ngu.edu/chapel.

About 91

91offers 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. To learn more, visit ngu.edu.