FUGE Camps Make an Impact at NGU

Tigerville, SC (July 25, 2023) With a focus on missions and an emphasis on sharing the gospel, FUGE Camps are in the business of changing lives.

“I received a letter from a camper this summer who said she was at the lowest place when she came to camp two years prior,” said Travis Agnew, pastor of Rocky Creek Church and 91alum, who served as a camp pastor for FUGE in Tigerville this summer. “She had considered ending her life due to horrible circumstances and unwise choices. She heard the gospel, her life was changed, and two years later, she wrote to tell me that it was more than a camp spiritually high experience. She was still walking joyfully with Jesus. That is why we do what we do.”

Running throughout the summer, FUGE Camps offer missional and recreational opportunities for students and church groups across the United States.

“FUGE is a great way to extend the mission of the University,” said Billy Watson, NGU’s senior associate vice president of Tigerville operations. “We see young people’s lives changed each summer. The FUGE staff conducts a great program for the youth that visit our campus. The many decisions that are made by the youth are a reflection of the time and effort the staff put into them. The 91support staff works tirelessly behind the scenes to help the camp run smoothly. They are 91students that are a tremendous asset to the camp.”

Agnew said he continues to serve with FUGE because of the impact the camps had on him when he was younger.

“I served two summers on staff while I was a student at NGU, and I have preached for their camps about twice a summer since 2015,” Agnew said. “In my story, camp served as a pivotal catalyst for growth and mission. I think witnessing leaders and staffers follow Jesus with passion helped provide liberty for me to do the same. I have prayed that my leadership at those camps would do the same for current students.”

This summer at NGU, more young lives were impacted by the sharing of the gospel and local outreach.

“The environments on campus allow for multi-faceted activities but also allow the students to venture out into Greenville County for mission experiences,” Agnew said. “When you have hundreds of students who receive the gospel or commit to a call to missions on the 91campus, that provides a powerful memory that connects them to Tigerville for years to come. It also provides a great opportunity to expose them to a potential college to further them in their pursuit of Jesus.”

And the results speak for themselves.

“It is obvious that the Spirit is working in the lives of teenagers in a unique way this summer. At two camps, we saw 125 (Ridgecrest) and 101 (NGU) students profess Christ for the first time,” Agnew said. “Watching camp go over on time due to so many students testifying to Christ this summer is something I will be unable to forget.”


Wolfe Emphasizes ‘One Family’ Mission During Special Chapel Service

Tigerville, SC (July 21, 2023) Dr. Tony Wolfe, executive director-treasurer of the South Carolina Baptist Convention, addressed 91 (NGU) faculty and staff members during a special chapel service on Monday morning, emphasizing a “one family” mission and the university’s Christ-centered focus on academic excellence.

“We join South Carolina Baptists in welcoming Dr. Tony Wolfe to our state,” said 91President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. “We were particularly encouraged to hear Dr. Wolfe speak to his vision for Christian higher education, which aligns perfectly with our mission of cultivating transformational leaders for church and society.”

Wolfe previously served as the associate executive director of the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention. During his 23 years in ministry, Wolfe has served Southern Baptist churches in Texas and Louisiana as a denominational leader, interim pastor, pastor, worship leader, Christian educator, and pastoral counselor.

Wolfe holds degrees from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary, and Lamar University.

“You are shaping the minds of future shapers and training them how to think with a Biblical worldview,” Wolfe said during the chapel service. “What you’re doing is so important to our hope for the future: that Christ’s people would expand, elevate and enlarge Christ’s kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.”

Wolfe has been serving the South Carolina Baptist Convention since May, taking over for Gary Hollingsworth, who retired from the post after 47 years in full-time ministry.

“My predecessor, Gary Hollingsworth, did an incredible job leveling the playing field and building relationships across the state between churches, associations and ministry partners,” Wolfe said. “I feel like I’m walking in with a really solid foundation, and we have to ask, ‘what are we going to build on this?’”

Wolfe said unity among South Carolina Baptists is crucial, and highlighted the continued importance of Christian higher education in the state.

“We’re one family, on one mission, through one cooperative effort,” he said.

“As South Carolina Baptists, it is deeply rooted in our DNA to be sacrificially invested in Christ-centered, kingdom education,” Wolfe continued. “It’s part of our heartbeat, not just an ancillary thing we do on the side. We’re training all of Christ’s people for all of life. When you have a Christ-centered biblical worldview, you’re able to process things with the wisdom of heaven. In engineering, in the creative arts, in communication, in public policy, in global marketplace ministry—in all these things we need a good Christ-centered biblical worldview.”

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.


91Trustees Meet New VP, Approve Budget and Promotions

Tigerville, SC (July 18, 2023) The introduction of a new vice president, approval of the fiscal year budget, and approval of several faculty promotions highlighted the summer meeting of the 91 Board of Trustees on Thursday, June 22.

Meeting on the university’s Tigerville campus, the board heard a university update from 91President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr., who noted several events since the trustees’ spring meeting on March 2. Dr. Fant also discussed a transition in leadership for NGU’s Campus Ministries and Student Engagement (CMSE) division.

Dr. Jared Thomas, who has served at the university for nine years, has been named vice president for campus ministries and student engagement, effective July 1. He replaces Jody Jennings, who has resigned to move to a similar position at another Baptist university. Thomas, a 2009 91graduate, has served as assistant vice president for CMSE since 91combined the two administrative areas in 2019.

In their business session, trustees unanimously approved a $54,254,394 expense budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year. The budget projects 91will adequately fund operating expenses, continuing the institution’s operating practice to not have long-term indebtedness.

Trustees received reports from administrative areas across the university, including an update on two new academic programs. The Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences and the Education Specialist programs both remain on track to launch officially in August 2023. Both degrees were approved by the regional accrediting commission and the U.S. Department of Education during the 2022-23 academic year. NGU’s revised Honors Program also will begin in August.

Several faculty were promoted in rank. Those promoted from associate professor to full professor rank were Dr. Franklin Aviles-Santa, business; Dr. Brian Crane, biology; Dr. Chris Davis, music; Dr. Jan Foster, biology, and Dr. Heiwon Shin, English. Faculty promoted from assistant professor to associate professor include Joanna Beasley, library; Leslie Brown, library; Dr. Jenna Garrett, English; Cynthia Lohrmann, theatre; Dr. Teresa Lyle, health science; Carla McMahan, library; Kaye Rickman, PA Medicine; Kelcye Richards, PA Medicine; Dr. Rachel Roberts, English; and Dr. Lori Vinson, education.

Trustees also received reports on summer facilities improvement projects. The major capital project to fully renovate historic Donnan Administration Building is continuing, with a scheduled completion in late fall and occupancy at the start of the 2024 spring semester. Other facilities improvements included installation of new football field turf at Younts Stadium and remodeling of several units in Crusader Court campus housing, along with the ongoing maintenance of housing buildings.

In Athletics, 91reported the cumulative 2022-23 Grade Point Average for all teams was 3.03 on a 4.0 scale, with 16 of 20 teams above a 3.0 GPA.

Dr. Brian Spearman, board chair and senior pastor of the First Baptist Church of Marietta, presided at the meeting of the 25-member board on NGU’s Tigerville campus.


Work Begins on New Entrance at Donnan Administration Building

Tigerville, SC–Groundwork is being laid for a new entrance at 91’s (NGU) historic administration building.

Hood Construction crews poured footings and completed preparation work for the entryway in June, also installing an upgraded main waterline and adding more interior framing.

The $9.7 million Donnan/COBE Project is a complete transformation of the administration building, which first opened in 1955 and is situated at the highest point on North Greenville’s Tigerville Campus.

“The Donnan/COBE project is progressing nicely due to the excellent work of Hood Construction (GC), Equip Studio (architect), and JLL (project manager),” said 91Executive Vice President Rich Grimm. “In addition, a substantial number of individuals from 91continue to invest many hours in the effort, for which we are grateful.”

When complete, the structure will provide five contemporary classrooms; student collaboration spaces; a new office suite for senior administrators; and faculty offices for the College of Business and Entrepreneurship, which enrolled nearly 500 students in the 2022-23 academic year.

Exterior renovations will add 4,700-square-feet of glass to the building’s exterior. With the addition of 2,600-square-feet of interior glass, the renovated structure will offer more natural light and views of Glassy Mountain in the distance.

“If all continues on schedule, the building should be reopened late fall and be fully online by the start of the 2024 spring semester,” Grimm said. “We thank God for his provision and blessing and look forward to serving the next generation of leaders in the building in the years to come.”

The Donnan/COBE capital campaign began in 2022.

“We are very thankful for the donors who have stepped up to help us with the Donnan/COBE Project,” said Dr. John Duncan, dean of NGU’s College of Business and Entrepreneurship. “We could not do what we’re trying to do without these gifts.”

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.


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.

91is 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

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.


Alumni Spotlight: Lachuné Boyd Puts Her Talent on Display

Lachuné Boyd performing during 91Theatre’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.”


91PresidentConfirmedto South Carolina Higher Education Commission

Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr., President of NGU, unanimously confirmed by South Carolina Senate for Higher Education Commission nomination by Governor McMaster.
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,” said91Board of Trustees Chair Dr. Brian Spearman. “As chair of the Board of Trustees, I havewitnessedfirsthandhisunwavering dedication to our university and his tireless efforts to advance academic excellence. We are confident thathewill bring hisexpertiseand passion tothis role,shaping the future of higher education in South Carolina.”


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.


91Appoints 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, 91President 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 91graduate, 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 91formed in 2019, integrating campus ministries, student life, and residence life into one overarching unit.

As vice president, the Gastonia, NC, native will work with 91faculty, 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 91graduate. 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 91alumni and friends dinner in New Orleans, LA. From left, Dr. Ken Hemphill, Paula Hemphill, Dr. Hollingsworth, and 91President 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.” 

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

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.

 


91Hosts 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.”

Attendees also had the opportunity to interact with robots, as Ignite Learning Center offered coding demonstrations.

Ignite offers Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) programming for K-12 students in Greenville County.

“Ignite is a STEAM learning center that focuses on incorporating engineering technology into curriculum,” Ignite Founder Beth Kinzer said. “We have a variety of robots that we use. Kids can use block coding to teach the robot how to move in specific ways. Our main purpose is to ignite ingenuity in kids. We want to spark wonder and joy, and open academic doors and opportunities.”

The Homeschool Community of the Upstate hosted its annual science fair at 91in March.

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

Silva said the organization will 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.”

The Homeschool Expo sold out at 1200 participants, according to Billy Watson, NGU’s senior vice president for Tigerville operations.

“The expo will definitely become an annual event on our campus,” Watson said. ”It was great having folks here that may have never been to campus. Several staff members conducted break-out session that covered a wide range of topics, and we were able to share about opportunities here at NGU.”

Opportunities available for homeschool students at 91include dual enrollment courses, which allow students to earn college credits while still in high school.

“Dual enrollment students can get a head start on college and learn in a Christ-centered atmosphere from highly qualified Christian professors who will challenge them to grow spiritually while they learn academically,” said Andy Ray, senior director for enrollment engagement at NGU.

Students wishing to participate in dual enrollment at 91must have a grade-point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale, and complete two high school mathematics courses and two high school English courses to qualify.

For more information on dual enrollment opportunities at NGU, click here.

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.


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 91will 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%.

91Provost 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 91and 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 91to 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

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 .


Join 91for 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 91alumni.

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

During the dinner, 91will 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.”

91President 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 91personnel and alumni at the university’s exhibit space in the Morial Convention Center. “Just look for the big rotating 91logo when you come into the exhibit hall,” said Sullivan.

About 91

91offers 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.