91Announces Speaker for December Commencement

Tigerville, S.C. (November 29, 2022) Chris Justus, Chief Meteorologist at WYFF News 4, will deliver the keynote address at 91’s (NGU) Commencement on Dec. 9 in the university’s Turner Chapel.

“We are excited that WYFF-4 weatherman Chris Justus will be joining us on campus as our commencement speaker. He is a deeply committed Christ-follower, and we serve together as deacons at Taylors First Baptist Church,” said 91President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. “His winsome spirit and commitment to excellence make our Upstate community better.”

Earning his degree in meteorology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Justus started his broadcasting career in Savannah, Georgia. He made stops in Charlotte and Nashville before settling in the Upstate of South Carolina in 2013. Justus was named Chief Meteorologist at WYFF News 4 in November 2019.

“I suspected that the announcement would be greeted enthusiastically, but I have found that I have under-estimated the enthusiasm,” President Fant said. “He is invited into so many of our homes on a daily basis that people feel as if he is a friend. I believe he will have words of great encouragement to our graduates that evening.”

91anticipates conferring degrees on more than 160 graduates during the mid-year ceremonies, which cap the fall semester at the private university affiliated with the South Carolina Baptist Convention.

Justus was given “The Key to the City” in Seneca, SC, after his early warning of tornadoes was credited with saving lives in 2020.

He was named Weathercaster of the Year in 2021 by both the South Carolina Broadcasters Association and the Radio Television Digital News Association of the Carolinas (RTDNAC). Justus also has been nominated for two Emmys for his coverage of severe weather.

“I’m honored and excited for the opportunity to share my testimony with this extraordinary class of 91 graduates,” he said.

Chris and his wife, Lauren, live in Greenville with their sons, Mason and Parker and daughter, Olivia.

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.


Third Annual Tigerville Christmas Parade Set for Dec. 3

The Tigerville Christmas Parade will begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3.

Tigerville, SC (November 22, 2022) Tigerville residents will kick off the holiday season with the third annual Tigerville Christmas Parade on Saturday, Dec. 3.

The parade, which begins at 10 a.m., will proceed north from the Highway 414 and Highway 253 intersection to Tigerville Elementary School Road, then back east and south to Highway 414. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Tigerville Fire Department.

The event is organized by various businesses in the local community, with 91 (NGU) as lead sponsor. The main stage area for the parade will be just east of the Tigerville Road and Chinquapin Road intersection, with food options in an 91parking area directly south of the university’s McCormick House on Tigerville Road.

The parade will include an array of entries, including church groups, classic tractors and sports cars, 91student organizations, and the 91Marching Band. The parade will conclude with the arrival of Santa Claus. Following the parade, families will have the opportunity to have photos made with Santa.

There are three ways to support the festival: register to enter the parade, bring your family to watch it on the route, and vote for the Best Overall Float and Best Ensemble at the judges’ booth. If you cannot attend, you may sponsor or donate by sending your contribution, payable to Dark Corner Ag Alliance, to 450 Cherokee Valley Way, Travelers Rest, SC 29690.

Parade participants may enter under two categories: Best Overall Vehicle/Float, and Best Ensemble. The cost for entry is $30, and one winner in each category will be chosen.

The deadline to enter is Saturday, November 26. To register, please contact Matt Jennings at mjennings@cherokeevalleyclub.com, or 440.371.3512. The 2022 Parade Committee includes Matthew and Michelle Lindsey, Matthew and Renee Jennings, Joe and Kayla Gilreath, Pastor Tim McConnell, and 91President and First Lady Dr. Gene and Lisa Fant.

For more details, follow the Tigerville Christmas Parade on .

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.


91Alumni Association Presents 2022 Alumni Awards

Tigerville, SC (November 11, 2022) Two graduates with notable success in serving others locally and around the world were honored by the 91 (NGU) Alumni Association during the university’s 2022 Homecoming celebration.

Kathie Burgess (’11) was presented with the 91Distinguished Alumni Award and John Craig Williams, IV (’16) received the Outstanding Young Alumni Award during the annual Alumni Awards Dinner in late October.

Distinguished Alumni Award

Kathie Burgess, Class of 2011

The oldest of five children, Kathie Burgess said she had a lot of reasons to lose hope as she was born into an abusive family situation.

“My father was a raging alcoholic,” she said. “He was very abusive. I ended up in the hospital a lot of times with him. He abandoned the family when I was five years old.”

Burgess was separated from her siblings at a young age, and she said her living situation only worsened.

“We were put into orphanages and foster homes that were very abusive. I almost died in one,” she said.

“The Lord was so faithful during that time. He was so close to me. He comforted me and saved my life. There were so many times that I would just be on my knees, begging the Lord to help me and save me. And he was faithful. He always provided, and that’s where I put my hope and trust.”

Escaping the abuse, Burgess found stability and became a respiratory therapist. In spite of the apparent success, she said she felt like God was calling her to something more.

“I felt like the Lord was leading me to go (to NGU) to learn more about the Bible,” Burgess said. “I had made my own plans. I had been a respiratory therapist and was planning to study to be a nurse when the Lord said that’s not what he wanted me to do. He wanted me to go to North Greenville.”

During her studies, Burgess said she saw that she had made the right decision.

“At first it was a little awkward,” she said. “Everyone was either a pastor or studying to be a pastor, and here I was as a respiratory therapist. But the people were just wonderful and accepted me anyway. I remember having a conversation with Richard Blackaby and he told me that if the Lord called me, he had a plan for me. He was right.”

Burgess used her calling to start Hands of Kindness Children’s Ministry, a non-profit organization that seeks to be a witness of God’s love to orphans and vulnerable children in Uganda by providing for their basic physical, medical, educational, and spiritual needs.

“We started a child-sponsorship program, which provides food and clothing. When I first went there, those children were in rags and all they had was what was on their backs. It was extreme poverty,” Burgess said. “Getting sponsors made sure that they were able to have food every day and proper clothing.”

Hands of Kindness also raised money for a place for the children to live and receive medical care. The non-profit has continued its work in impoverished areas of Africa, and Burgess encourages local churches to get involved and make an impact.

“We invite people from other churches to go because it’s a life-changing experience,” she said. “The Lord told me to be consumed with serving others, and that’s what I’m doing. My life is now about serving those that are less fortunate.”

Young Alumni Award

John Craig Williams, IV, Class of 2016

Responding to his sense of God calling him to reach those in crisis, Craig Williams serves as a chaplain at Interim Hospice and in the National Guard.

A 2016 graduate of North Greenville, Williams received his bachelor’s degree in history before pursuing a Master of Divinity from Erskine Theological Seminary.

“I knew I wanted to get into ministry, but how that was going to flesh out was kind of up in the air,” he said. “I met a National Guard chaplain while I was in high school on a mission trip, and he planted that seed that grew into a calling.”

Williams joined the National Guard in high school.

“If I would’ve chosen a path for my life, I probably just would have enlisted and skipped school. But God, in his providence, had other ideas. And he’s the boss here,” he said.

Williams was commissioned as an officer in the South Carolina National Guard, Second Lieutenant, and was ordained for Gospel ministry from Easley First Baptist Church in 2017.

Since starting his work as a chaplain in 2020, Craig has served an average of 40 patients and their families. He is also the leader of GriefShare, a grief support group, at the Grace Church Powdersville campus as part of the church’s Care and Recovery team.

“It’s very heavy,” Williams said of working in hospice. “I’m fortunate to work with a very good team. They make my job a lot easier. You get close to families and meet a lot of really good people. It is sad to lose people, but for those that have faith in Christ, I get to see them again one day.”

Williams said the job comes with many rewarding moments.

“I just had a patient of mine transfer. He did a lot of mission work and we had a lot of similarities,” he said. “On my last visit, I shook his hand and gave him a hug. I told him we wouldn’t see each other again until we’re on the other side. It was almost cinematic. You always hope for a really good goodbye, and that was one of those moments. It’s crazy I get paid to do this. I would do that for free. To be able to speak truth into people’s dark moments, that’s what it’s about.”

Williams said he will continue to serve others and follow where the Lord leads.

“I understand that I am the creature and God is the creator. A good part about working in hospice is that you’re reminded of your mortality every day,” he said. “We know that one day, we’ll stand in front of Christ and give an account. The way I see it, we all have to get scarred in life so you might as well get scarred for the kingdom. We’re called to go forth and multiply and preach the Gospel.”

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 to Host Military Appreciation Day on November 12

Tigerville, SC (November 10, 2022) 91 (NGU) will recognize the service of military veterans during Military Appreciation Day at Younts Stadium on November 12.

The celebration will take place during the North Greenville football team’s final home game against #19 ranked University of West Georgia. Kickoff is set for 12:30 p.m.

“91Football is honored to celebrate Military Appreciation Day,” said North Greenville Head Football Coach Jeff Farrington. “We are allowed to have many privileges due to the service and sacrifice of many American servicemen and women around the globe. Carrying each service flag is not something we take for granted.”

Military Appreciation Day will include a presentation of the colors by the South Carolina State Guard 2nd Battalion, recognition of three decorated veterans, and musical performance by Dr. Andrew Stevens.

“We want to give honor back to those who have served and defended our country,” said Dr. Jason Ross, Director of Development and Corporate Relations at NGU. “Anytime we can shine the spotlight on veterans who went above and beyond the call of duty, it’s a special time at the university.”

During a halftime ceremony, North Greenville will honor Ret. Senator Lewis Vaughn, Marine Corps Veteran Jonathan Burgess, and Ret. Colonel Mike Stahl.

Vaughn enlisted in the Army at 16. He was honorably discharged in July of 1953, but reenlisted four months later and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant First Class. He was assigned to Korea in January of 1954, first as a Platoon Sergeant, then Acting First Sergeant of his Tank Company. He rotated back to the states in August of 1955 as a Platoon Sergeant of a Light M-24 Tank Reconnaissance Platoon. He was honorably discharged the second time in October 1956. After retiring, he served 20 years in the SC House and Senate. He was chairman of the Greenville County Legislative Delegation (GCLD) for 12 years.

Burgess is a native to the Upstate of South Carolina. From 2006 to 2010, he served as an infantryman with 1st Battalion 5th Marine Regiment. He deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom aboard the USS Cleveland, and in 2009, he fought in Helmand Province (Afghanistan), where he was injured and returned home to Camp Pendleton, California. Jonathan served the first program director for Upstate Warrior Solution’s Spartanburg office helping veterans and their families transition from active duty to civilian life.

Stahl joined the Marine Corps after graduating from high school in Del Rio, TX, receiving an appointment to OCS under the Meritorious Non-Commissioned Officer Program. He retired as a Colonel after 26 years. He was awarded a Navy Cross (second highest award after the Medal of Honor), Bronze Star Medal for Heroism and six Purple Heart Medals. He had multiple combat tours in Vietnam, Beirut, Lebanon, Cambodia, and El Salvador. His military experience included infantry, reconnaissance, hostage rescue and special operations. He was the first Marine Corps Counter- Narcotics Task Force Commander.

“It’s not every day that veterans get to take part in something like this,” Ross said of the Military Appreciation event. “A lot of them come back from combat, resume daily tasks, and struggle with PTSD. Being able to do things like this provides just that small sense of pride and accomplishment that makes them feel good.”

Ross is encouraging local veterans to come out and participate.

“We’re inviting all veterans that served and are currently serving to come out and be apart of this event,” he said. “This is a time for you to be acknowledged for the sacrifices you made for this country.”

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.


91Ranks Among Top Colleges and Universities in SC

Tigerville, SC (November 10, 2022) 91 ranks in the Top 10 colleges and universities in South Carolina, according to a recent study by WalletHub. The study also listed 91as the state’s best in WalletHub’s Cost & Financing category, which considers net cost, availability of employment services for students and student-loan debt.

“We always rejoice in external recognition, even as we quickly remind folks that we do things for the glory and honor of God,” said 91President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. “We are grateful that the university continues to gain the attention of people around the country and look forward to seeing these recognitions grow as we work continuously for improvements.”

In WalletHub’s 2023’s College and University Rankings, 91is the state’s ninth ranked school, joining a list that includes Clemson University, the University of South Carolina, Furman University, Presbyterian College, The Citadel, Columbia International University, Southern Wesleyan University, and Charleston Southern University.

The list included 301 institutions in the South region. Overall, WalletHub compared more than 900 higher-education institutions in the U.S. across 30 key measures. The data set is grouped into seven categories, such as Student Selectivity, Cost & Financing, and Career Outcomes. The metrics range from student-faculty ratio to graduation rate to post-attendance median salary.

Along with being South Carolina’s top institution for Cost & Financing, North Greenville also ranked in the Top 3 in the state for Faculty Resources, a category that analyzes student-faculty ratio, average class size, share of full-time professors among total full-time instructional staff, share of full-time faculty, and faculty staff salary.

“Of particular note in this ranking is the recognition that our faculty are difference-makers and that our strong sense of community flows through academics, student life, and campus ministries, aligning student experiences in fundamentally strong ways,” President Fant said.

In the Campus Experience category, North Greenville placed in the Top 5 for South Carolina schools. This metric calculates the college or university’s share of international students, percentage of students living on campus, NCAA membership, availability of study-abroad programs, gender and racial diversity, average earnings from on-campus employment, and presence of placement services for graduates.

“It’s wonderful to see our students thriving on campus – because of abundant opportunities to learn from experienced faculty who truly desire to see them learn and grow in their fields, and because of intentional programming designed to create a great student experience outside the classroom,” said Katie Lynn Marshall, Director for Traditional Admissions at North Greenville. “91offers such strong academic experience to students while providing great resources for them to grow personally, relationally, and spiritually – all at an affordable cost to families.”

A full list of the WalletHub College and University Rankings can be found at WalletHub.com.

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.


91Presents ‘Elf the Musical’ Nov. 10-19 at Billingsley Theatre

Tigerville, S.C. (November 7, 2022) The 91 (NGU) School of Theatre will present “Elf the Musical” Nov. 10-19 at Billingsley Theatre in Tigerville. 

The production will run Nov. 10-12 and Nov. 17-19, beginning at 7:30 p.m. nightly. 

Based on a popular Christmas film, “Elf the Musical” follows Buddy, a young orphan who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole.

The would-be elf is raised in the North Pole, but ultimately embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. 

“I love to encounter stories in which we can find the sacred within the secular—biblical principles that are going to resonate with people who are of faith and who may not be of faith,” said Joshua Scott, 91Theatre Education Program Coordinator and Director of the production. “This is a story about a man who finds his father. And when he finds his real father, he finds his identity and who he really is. That is fantastic. It makes us a powerful witness when we can find those principles and highlight them in a specific, outstanding, beautiful and excellent way.”

JP Waynick, who plays the role of Buddy, said the show balances humor with several important themes.

“This show is an incredible, articulated love story. Romantic love, of course, but also the love a father has for a child, and the unconditional love a child has for a parent. There are seeds of the Gospel throughout this show, and I trust that our audiences will be able to see Christ through the story.”

Cast members include: Seth Atkins from Inman; Alyse Barrett from St. Louis; Matthew Blanton from Columbia, SC; Marnie Daniel from Detroit; Gaby Delanuez from Greenville; Sarah Delanuez from Greenville; Wes Evatt from Travelers Rest; Eleanor Finn from Tigerville; Georgia Finn from Tigerville; Meghan Frady from Summerville; Will Fulton from Bridgeville, DE; Joshua Gasdia from Lexington; Gabby Godoy from Aiken; Jenna Hansard from Sumter; Chloe Holmes from Myrtle Beach; Ben Howard from Wilmington, GA; Kat Liederbach from Wake Forest, NC; Cole Kittredge from Greenville; Keely Lyons from Simpsonville; Collin McCarter from Greenville; Jessie McGrath from Greenville; Michaila Parker from Fair Play; Logan Stewart from Campobello; Darrell “Bo” Taylor from Greer; Abigail Thomas from Dacusville, Michael Thomas from Lake Charles, LA; JP Waynick from Taylors; Carmen Wells from Jacksonville, NC; Joshua Wells from Spartanburg; Isabelle Western from Tigerville; Arianna Wilson from Spartanburg; Meredith Wirth from Gastonia, NC; and Caleb Wright from Shelby, NC.

With the task of performing a familiar Christmas story for audiences, Scott said he is encouraging the cast to put their own stamp on the production.

“Every person is going to put his or her thumbprint on their particular role,” he said. “We’ve pushed our actors to create a believable character rather than a caricature. The movie is a favorite in the Christmas season, so it’s a fun challenge. But it’s a challenge I think we’re going to live up to.”

Tickets for “Elf the Musical” can be purchased at go.ngu.edu/theatre or at Billingsley Theatre Box Office.

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.


91Names New Enrollment & Marketing/Communications Vice President

Headshot for Chad Peters, Vice President of Enrollment & Marketing/CommunicationsTigerville, SC (November 1, 2022) 91 has named Chad Peters, a long-time higher education admissions professional as vice president for enrollment and marketing/communications, 91President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr., announced on November 1.

Peters currently serves as vice president for enrollment management and marketing at Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion, IN. He moved to that post in 2019, after serving in the same role at Southern Wesleyan University in Central, SC, from July 2012 to August 2019. He began work in higher education as an admissions counselor at SWU in 2001.

“For 130 years, God has provided 91with skillful leaders at strategic times in our history,” said President Fant. “I am convinced that Chad is the right leader to help 91move to the next level as we continue to market our special community to students and families and as we build our incoming classes in all programs.

Citing Peters’ 21 years of experience in student recruitment, Dr. Fant noted, “He brings not only a breadth of experiences but a depth of thoughtful insight that will serve us well. He is passionate about serving both church and society in every possible way; we will welcome him and Sherri back home to the Upstate with great joy.”

A native of Ohio and graduate of Indiana Wesleyan University, Peters and his wife, Sherri, have lived in the Upstate of South Carolina for 14 years spread over two tenures at SWU. While his career has been tied to Wesleyan institutions in South Carolina and Indiana, he said joining North Greenville at this point offers a unique opportunity.

“This is an exciting time in the history of 91as Dr. Fant has articulated a strong Christ-first future for the University,” said Peters. “Our visit to the North Greenville campus allowed us to experience how the mission of cultivating graduates to serve as transformational leaders in church and society is the focus that drives decision making and strategic priorities. Institutions like 91stand in the gap as the world needs Christ-centered leaders in all professions and careers.”

At NGU, Peters will provide leadership for admissions personnel at both the bachelor’s and graduate levels, working with staff at the university’s main Tigerville campus as well as staff working with graduate and online programs through the Tim Brashier Campus in Greer.

In addition to providing leadership in recruitment strategies, he will supervise marketing and communication efforts and development of strategic admissions and marketing campaigns for the South Carolina Baptist institution founded in 1892.

“I look forward to joining the North Greenville community with the goal of building upon the excellent foundation the enrollment and marketing teams have accomplished,” said Peters.

Before his vice-presidential roles at SWU and IWU, Peters served as associate vice president for enrollment management at Indiana Wesleyan from 2008 to 2012. At SWU, he moved from admissions counselor to assistant director of admissions in July 2003, and was promoted to the university’s director of admissions post three months later. He also served as head men’s and women’s cross country coach at SWU from 2001-2004.

“Chad brings a skill set to the work that will serve the University well,” said Rich Grimm, NGU’s executive vice president. “He is strongly committed to Christian higher education and is himself a product of it; he understands the value that it offers and the impact that it has on students in all programs.”

Peters completed a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration and economics at Indiana Wesleyan in 1994. He earned a Master of Science degree in management from Southern Wesleyan in 2006. He and his wife, the former Sherri Shugart, have a son, Hayden; a daughter and son-in-law, Kennedy and Drew Boggs; and a one-year-old granddaughter, Cameron Boggs.

“We thank God for the calling that is on Chad’s life to serve alongside us and look forward to co-laboring with him in support of what the Lord is doing at NGU,” said Grimm.

Roswell, Georgia-based CarterBaldwin Executive Search assisted 91in the hiring process.

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.


91Invites Community to Homecoming Festivities, Oct. 28-29

The North Greenville football team will host Valdosta State University at Younts Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 29 at 3 p.m.

Tigerville, SC (October 25, 2022) 91 will honor outstanding graduates and welcome alumni and friends to campus during its 2022 Homecoming weekend Oct. 28-29.

“Homecoming is a huge part of the rhythm of life on a campus like NGU. It’s always wonderful to see people we recognize on this special weekend,” said 91President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. “One of the fun parts of my job is running into people in the community who tell me they haven’t been back to campus in years—or even decades—and are coming back for Homecoming. It’s a joy to hear from them after their visit, to hear their excitement about what they’ve seen and their gratitude for what 91has meant in their lives.”

Homecoming events begin Friday, October 28, with the 34th Annual Marion Moorhead Golf Classic, hosted at Cherokee Valley Golf and Club in Travelers Rest.

“Homecoming is a special time when 91alumni return to campus to catch up with friends from the past and present,” said Lamont Sullivan, 91assistant vice president for advancement and alumni engagement. “We look forward to reconnecting with alumni and friends and encourage all 91alumni to attend any or all events.”

The week’s events culminate Saturday, Oct. 29, with the Alumni & Friends Tailgate Party at Younts Stadium beginning at 11 a.m. and NGU’s Homecoming football game at 3 p.m. against Valdosta State University.

Homecoming events at North Greenville include:

  • The 34th Annual Marion Moorhead Golf Classic, 8 a.m., Oct. 28, Cherokee Valley Golf and Club, Travelers Rest. Proceeds support NGU’s general scholarship fund, which directly aids students. (Thanks to generous alumni and friends, the tournament is sold out.)
  • Alumni Awards Dinner and Half-Century Ceremony, 6:30 p.m., Oct. 28, Hayes Ministry Center, Moore Hall: we will honor the Class of 1972 and our 2022 Alumni Award Honorees Kathleen Burgess, MCM ’12, and John Craig Williams, IV. ’16. Tickets for the event are $15 per person. 
  • Homecoming Brunch, 10-11 a.m., Oct. 29, The President’s House, 9 Blackwell Road, Tigerville. Join Auxilio for this event hosted by 91First Lady Lisa Fant. Admission is free, but reservations are required. R.S.V.P. to auxilio@ngu.edu by October 26.
  • Campus Tours, 9 a.m. and 10 a.m., Meet in front of Hayes Ministry Center for a guided tour around campus to the newest renovations and improvements.
  • Alumni & Friends Tailgate Party, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Younts Stadium. Prior to the 3 p.m. kick-off of NGU’s Homecoming Football Game versus Valdosta State University. Tickets are $10 per person. A children’s play zone is included in this event for alumni families.
  • Homecoming Football Game, 3 p.m., Oct. 29, Melvin and Dollie Younts Stadium: are available at the ticket booth in front of Younts Stadium prior to kickoff.

Homecoming events for current North Greenville students kicked off Monday night. The week will feature a volleyball tournament on campus, a bowling tournament at Peach Bowl Lanes in Greer and a trip to the Corn Maze at Famoda Farms in Taylors.

For a complete schedule of events offered by the 91Alumni Association, visit go.ngu.edu/alumni.

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.


Prospective Students to Compete for Scholarships at 91Scholars Weekend

Tigerville, SC (October 18, 2022) Prospective students will compete for scholarships at 91’s invitation-only Scholars Weekend, set for Nov. 18-19 at the Tigerville Campus.

During the weekend, students who are selected will be interviewed by distinguished faculty, staff, alumni, and board members; participate in group discussions and other academic experiences; tour campus and attend dinner with 91President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr.  

“Students that are chosen have indicated that they are top-notch individuals,” 91Director for Traditional Admissions Katie Lynn Marshall said. “They’re not chosen because of a single gift or accomplishment, or because they made straight ‘As’ in high school. They’re chosen because we have seen potential in them. They’re already making a difference and doing excellent things with their lives, and we want to partner with them and give them the opportunity to continue down that path.”

Those in attendance will compete for the Trustee Scholarship, the 91Fellows Scholarship, and the Lifeshape Scholarship.

To be considered for the Trustee Scholarship, candidates must have an overall grade point average of 3.8, and a minimum combined SAT score of 1300 on the critical reading and math portions, an ACT composite score of 28, or an 86 on the CLT. The scholarship will cover $17,000 of tuition for resident students and $8,500 of tuition for commuting students. The scholarship is renewable for four years to students who maintain a grade point average of at least a 3.0 at the end of each academic year.

South Carolina residents who meet the requirements for the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship are considered for the 91Fellows Scholarship. Eligible candidates are identified by the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education. This scholarship will cover the full cost of tuition, room, and board. This scholarship will be comprised of federal, state, and institutional aid. The cost of books and fees will be the responsibility of the recipient. The 91Fellows Scholarship is renewable for four years to students who maintain the requirements set forth by the Commission on Higher Education.

The Lifeshape Scholarship is a cohort-based opportunity that facilitates covering tuition, housing, meals, course materials from Slingshot, and required fees—a true full-ride. Open to all areas of study, but prioritized for student’s pursuing degrees in English, political science, history, languages, and church ministry-related programs. It’s one more way 91partners with students to keep average student debt well below the national average.

“Students that receive these scholarships from North Greenville—we know where they’re going. We know they’re going to impact the world around them,” said Cory Truax, Associate Director for Enrollment Operations at NGU. “They’re going to the courtroom to argue for justice. They’re going to the board room to make big decisions. They’re going to the operating room to heal people. They’re going to classrooms to shape the next generation. We want those students to be shaped by the values we have here at North Greenville.”

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.


91Mourns Death of Student-Athlete

Davis Heller, 91Baseball PlayerTigerville, SC (October 6, 2022) We are deeply saddened by the death of 91 student-athlete Davis Heller, who died October 5 in his off-campus apartment. Although there is an ongoing investigation, initial indications are that he died of natural causes.

Davis was a junior from Gilbert, Arizona, majoring in Strategic Communication. A first baseman for 91baseball, he was in his first semester after transferring from the University of Alabama.

“Our baseball program is heartbroken over the loss of an amazing human being and brother in Christ,” said 91Coach Landon Powell. “Davis was a positive force everywhere he went. A gentle giant who greeted everyone with a smile and constantly uplifted those around him. An example of what a great teammate should be, Davis has left a lasting legacy on this program. A great competitor, but even better friend to those who got to know him.”

Please pray for Davis’ parents, three sisters, extended family, and friends during this time of loss.

Funeral arrangements are pending at this time.


City of Greer Recognizes NGU’s Baseball Championship

Pictured (left to right) are Dr. Larry McDonald, Associate Provost of Graduate Programs and Dean of North Greenville’s Tim Brashier School of Graduate Studies; 91President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr; North Greenville Head Baseball Coach Landon Powell; and City of Greer Mayor Rick Danner.

Tigerville, SC (October 4, 2022) The City of Greer recognized 91’s 2022 NCAA Division II baseball national championship with congratulatory signage at the corner of Poinsett Street and Highway 29, and at the university’s Tim Brashier Campus at 405 Lancaster Avenue in Greer.

91President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. expressed his appreciation, emphasizing the importance of North Greenville’s continued relationship with the City of Greer and the surrounding communities.

“NGU’s Tim Brashier Campus in Greer continues to grow in large part because of the vision and energy demonstrated by the city’s leaders, including Mayor Rick Danner,” President Fant said. “We are grateful for our partnership in so many efforts to improve the quality of life in this hub of the Upstate, as we continue to equip transformational leaders for this region.”

Mayor Danner said 91brings value to the Greer community and improves the quality of life for its citizens.

“One of the things that broadens our offerings as a community and is important to the people who live here is higher education opportunities,” Danner said. “North Greenville offers a great deal in both athletics and academics. It’s not every day you win a national championship.”

In early June, 91Baseball advanced to the NCAA Division II World Series for the first time in the program’s history. The top-seeded team won four straight games at the tournament in Cary, NC, defeating second-seed Point Loma Nazarene University on June 10 to claim the title and conclude the season with a 54-10 record.

91Baseball Coach Landon Powell said the milestone accomplishment has provided opportunities for North Greenville to continue to expand its reach in the Upstate and beyond.

“It’s been really cool, over the last eight years, to see how North Greenville has been welcomed in the communities of Greer, Greenville and Travelers Rest,” Powell said. “The baseball program and the national championship only helps with that. We feel like there’s a great partnership between our communities.”

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.