Summer 2012 Update

NOW IS THE TIME

STUDENT SUMMER RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES

SECURING THEFUTURE OF SNU

Campaign for the Sciences Update

IT’S ALL ABOUTRELATIONSHIPS

Alumni Drs. Brad and Heather Wilson

DR. DON BEAVERHis Lasting Legacy

Greetings from Dr. Gresham

Highlights in this Issue:

DR. SHARON YOUNGHeritage Fuels Long Career

Sincerely,

Loren P. Gresham, PhD.

“Timing is everything!” is a phrase that can apply to just about any

venture in modern life. Those three words can be applied to a new

business venture, investment strategies, networking or even a golf swing.

At Southern Nazarene University we believe the time is right for the

Campaign for the Sciences – which was publicly launched in January

of 2012. It is a multi-year – multi-faceted effort to continue the academic

excellence in the Sciences that has been a hallmark of SNU for decades.

The record of our outstanding Science faculty, past and present students

who have excelled and the strong financial support of those who believe in

the future of SNU makes a compelling case for this effort to move forward

and now is the time!As you read through this Science Campaign Update, I think you will agree

with me that conditions are right to do something that has only been a

dream for the past many years and now we’re on the verge of seeing it all

come to fruition with the construction of Phase I – the J.D. & Mary West

Science Laboratory. I hope you will be moved to act upon what you read

and consider doing at least two things: 1) Pray for SNU mission fullfillment

and this Campaign 2) Consider financially supporting the Campaign with

a gift that will add to the momentum we have already gained to this point.

We need everyone who desires to secure the future for Southern Nazarene

University’s excellence in the sciences to participate.

NOW IS THE TIME!Greetings from President Gresham

Quick Fact: SNU’s QERC Rain Forest Campus in Costa Rica hosts students and visitors from around the globe

MORE THAN just AN EDUCATION

When Mo Niazi decided to attend Southern Nazarene University to pursue

a degree in biochemistry, it wasn’t just the university’s stellar science

program that he found appealing. Niazi was seeking a place where he

could not only forge a strong educational foundation for his future, but

also a place where he could grow spiritually and relationally, as well.

“I felt like the conditions were all optimized to help increase my potential

as a student,” explained Niazi. “I wanted to go to a school that had

a nurturing environment that would allow me to reach my maximum

potential to not only get into medical school, but also become the best

doctor that I could be.”

Niazi, a junior at SNU, is attempting to pursue one of the most diffi cult degrees in the scientifi c and medical fi elds.

Niazi aspires to earn the MD-PhD degree, which will afford him the

opportunity to practice medicine and conduct research simultaneously. “I

really enjoy exploring the frontiers of science; however, I also love patient

interaction. I feel like I would be the happiest and be able to fulfill my

potential with this degree, said Niazi.”

Mo Niazi, Biochemistry Senior

More importantly, the Oklahoma City resident feels that his

current career path is the best way for him to help build the

kingdom of God.

In fact, Niazi feels that studying science is actually a form of worship to God.

He feels that learning about the complexities of life is

worship because he is gaining insight into how intricate our

world is and how big God is.

Niazi also credits his professors who have been a

tremendous help and encouragement to him during his first few years

at SNU. Most of all, he has appreciated the way they have reached out

to help him any time he struggled with a course, or when they spent

additional time with him to ensure he was understanding what he was

learning. “I would have never gotten to this point had it not been for the

education I’ve received here at SNU and the great leadership,” he said.

“Going to college is a huge investment, so why not invest in something

that’s high quality,” said Niazi.

Scan this code with your mobile device to see a video interview with Mo.

Or go tosnu.edu/niazi

Quick Fact: Over 90% of SNU’s Pre-med majors accepted to medical school

For Chesney Burgweger, Southern Nazarene University may not have

been her first choice, but it ended up becoming her best choice.

The senior biochemistry major originally enrolled in a large public

university with the desire of having the “big college experience” that so

many of her friends had talked about in high school; however, during

her freshman year, she paid a visit to one of her friends attending SNU.

Immediately, Burgweger was taken with the friendliness of the students

and science faculty.

“During my visit I had the opportunity to eat a meal with one of the

professors, who would later become one of my favorites,” she said.

“There was something that just drew me to SNU and it was a great

opportunity.”

After her visit, it became obvious that a change was in order and she

transferred to SNU. Burgweger was also impressed by SNU’s pre-med

program, which is recognized as one of the best in the state. The balance

of a quality education and a close-knit community where professors and

students care for each other was just the sort of place that Burgweger

knew she needed to be. “The seniors and juniors are great about

reaching out to the sophomores and freshmen,” she explained. “The

professors show a personal interest in you and help you succeed and

prepare you for grad school or medical school. That’s something you

don’t have at larger schools.”

Burgweger, who hails from De Soto, Kansas, said she is still deciding

on exactly which field of medicine she will pursue upon graduating from

SNU. She is leaning towards pediatrics or becoming a general physician

because of her love of kids and teens. In fact, Burgweger’s passion for

young people led to her to help mentor a small group of pre-teen girls at

her church.

“I’ve built up a passion for young people and hope to use that in my career as a doctor,”

As Burgweger considers her own future once she graduates from SNU,

she is also excited about the future that awaits the university’s science

department as a result of the Campaign for the Sciences that is

currently underway.

She feels the addition of the new laboratory will help tremendously in attracting new students and expanding their educational options.

“Our science professors have put the time into creating a

unique environment for students here at SNU,” said Burgweger,

“and the new science building will be phenomenal with the new labs. It’s

something that future students can look forward to.”

SNU PROVES TO BE THE BEST CHOICEChesney Burgweger, Biochemistry Senior

Scan this code with your mobile device to see a video interview with Chesney.

Or go tosnu.edu/burgweger

Quick Fact: SNU’s Nursing majors consistently pass national boards (NCLEX) at well above national norms

When Brad and Heather (Stallings) Wilson reflect back upon their time at

Southern Nazarene University’ science department a decade ago, it’s the

relationships with other students and professors that they remember the most.

According to Heather, those friendships she made during her time at SNU

have continued to this day and have played an integral part in her life.

“I think the thing I value the most are my friendships,” she said.

“It is so nice to have such wonderful friends, who keep me grounded and

remind me that it is okay to not always have the answers.”

Both Brad and Heather credited chemistry professor Dr. Daryl Cox as the

professor that had the greatest impact on them personally and professionally.

“He was such an incredible teacher,” explained Brad.

“Dr. Cox always challenged students to take responsibility for their learning and pushed them to be better scholars.”

The Wilsons are extremely grateful

for the excellent education they

received from SNU that helped

prepare them for their current

careers. Brad, who graduated

in 2003, is currently in medical

residency at the University of Kansas Medical Center, while Heather, who

graduated in 2004, is a pediatric physician at Children’s Mercy Hospital in

Kansas City.

While the Wilsons are grateful for the foundation SNU provided for their

careers and in growing their faith, they are also passionate about ensuring

that the next generation of science students will be just as impacted by

SNU as they were.

“In order for SNU to provide quality science education, it will take more

revenue than what tuition alone can generate,” said Brad.

“It is important we raise the funds necessary to support our science professors, as well as continue to attract great teaching talent to SNU. “

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE RELATIONSHIPSDrs. Brad & Heather Wilson, SNU Sciences Alumni

Quick Fact: Over 3,000 SNU science graduates serve worldwide

Now is the time!

Throughout its history, Southern Nazarene University has trained,

developed, and prepared thousands of students who have gone on to

make a difference in our world through careers in science. The time

has come to invest in future generations of science students with the

addition of a new laboratory facility.

Not only is the Campaign for the Sciences an opportunity to invest

in the future of SNU’s science department, it is also a great way for

alumni and friends of the university to honor those science professors

who impacted their lives or to ensure their family’s SNU legacy will be

remembered for generations to come.

Naming opportunities are now available for the new laboratory that will

be built adjacent to the existing science building. There are a variety

of labs, classroom spaces, and office spaces available for honoring

significant faculty or family members through your financial support of

the Campaign for the Sciences.

For Dr. Ronald Hodges, who graduated in 1973 with a B. S. in

Chemistry, the Campaign for the Sciences is a unique way to honor

long-time chemistry professor Dr. Gene Heasley, thanking Dr. Heasley

for the investment he made in his life while

at SNU.

“Donating to a fund in honor of Dr. Heasley is one small way of expressing appreciation for his long years of dedicated service,” said Dr. Hodges.

“The professors of the university provide

excellent, caring instruction in the sciences

while modeling Christian faith and character.”

To learn more about the Campaign for the Sciences, visit

snu.edu/campaign-for-the-sciences. To inquire about naming

opportunities for the new facility, call 405-717-6292.

Every gift moves SNU one step closer to reaching our goal of preparing

science graduates to think with clarity, act with integrity, and serve

with purpose. Please prayerfully consider the part you can play in the

Campaign for the Sciences.

SECURING THEFUTURE OF SNU

Dr. Ronald Hodges

To view a video tour of the planned facilityfollow this QR code on your smartphone,

or visit www.snu.edu/campaign-for-the-sciences.

Quick Fact: National Society of Physics Students names SNU an “Outstanding Physics Department”

In October, 2011, SNU received written notification that a Challenge

Grant in the amount of $800,000 was issued by the J.E. and L.E.

Mabee Foundation. The terms and conditions of the challenge were

accepted by the University, including the provision that, by October,

2012, the fundraising goal for Phase I would be met. We gladly and

gratefully accepted this Challenge Grant and alumni and friends of

SNU generously and sacrificially gave to reach our Challenge Grant

goal. This generous grant will go far in making it possible to begin

construction of the J.D. and Mary West Science Laboratory.

Now our Science students and faculty need your help to complete

the mission. Phase II and III are critical to the needs of our bright,

dedicated students.

Now is the time for every friend of SNU who values the

transformative mission of this institution to come alongside us and

make a financial commitment – at whatever level – to this historic

effort. The Campaign for the Sciences can set a new course for SNU!

Now you can help us renew the present W. Don Beaver Science

Building with a new elevator tower and connecting spaces in Phase

II so renovation can be completed for Nursing and other departments

housed in this historic building.

Now you can give to make it possible to complete Phase III, finishing

out the second floor of the new building to give our outstanding

Chemistry students and faculty the best possible environment and

resources for learning.

Now is the time!

WHAT CAN WE DO TO ENSURE THE FUTURE OF SCIENCE EXCELLENCE AT SNU?Support the Campaign fi nancially today!

• Mail your gift or pledge using the enclosed card OR give securely

online at www.snu.edu/giving

• Pray for SNU’s Faculty and Students – and for those who will teach

and learn in this new facility for years to come!

• Identify prospective students and encourage them to visit SNU!

J.E. AND L.E. MABEE FOUNDATIONISSUES CHALLENGE GRANT TO SNU

Phase I

Phase III

Phase II

Two-story Laboratory Addition south of the existing Beaver Science Building

25,891 square feet Base Building

Five Biology Laboratories

Three Chemistry Laboratories

Two Research Laboratories

Laboratory Support Spaces

Five Offices and Ancillary Support Spaces

Six Student Gathering Areas

Atrium Space

Estimated Cost: $5,500,000

Elevator and stair connection to all floors of existing Science Building

5,154 square feet

Estimated Cost: $1,100,000

Interior Finish Out andFurnishing of Second Floor

Estimated Cost: $2,100,000

Campaign for the Sciences Total Goal: $8,700,000

Quick Fact: SNU regularly collaborates for internships with the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center

While Dr. Ami Siems was drawn to the medical field because of her love of

science and the opportunities such a career would afford her, it was her

love for people and building relationships that has fueled her career over

the past 30 years. Upon completing her biochemistry degree at Southern

Nazarene University in 1981, she realized that conducting research in a

lab was not her calling and becoming a physician was the best way for her

to interact with others, as well as invest in their lives.

“It’s not just the science of medicine, but the interpersonal relationships that I really get excited about,” said Dr. Siems.

During her time as a student, Dr. Siems said it was the relationships she

formed with her fellow students and professors that she treasures the

most and were most instrumental in helping develop her into who she is

today. She especially cited Dr. Sharon Young, Dr. Robert Judd, and Dr. Leo

Finkenbinder as having a very special place in her heart. “All three were

wonderful friends,” she added.

“Th ey took such an interest in all of our lives.”

Dr. Siems’ rich Nazarene heritage was one of the driving factors that led

her to Bethany, Oklahoma as a student. She said that, while all of her

sisters attended Nazarene schools, she chose SNU as did two of her

sisters.

Now, Dr. Siems’ deep heritage with SNU has been extended to a new

generation. She has served SNU as the campus physician since 1997

and also as the medical director of SNU’s athletic training department,

in addition to maintaining her private practice in Yukon, Oklahoma.

Furthermore, Dr. Siems’ daughter, Mary, is carrying on the legacy as a

senior biochemistry student at SNU.

In looking ahead to the future, Siems hopes her family’s legacy with SNU will continue for generations to come.

Dr. Siems is passionate about the positive impact the university’s

Campaign for the Sciences will have in preparing future science and

medical students to meet the ever changing needs of their professions.

“The science building is the same as when I went to school 30 years ago,

but the students are not the same and the level of education is not the

same,” said Dr. Siems. “Everything, including technology, has advanced

over the last 30 years and to give the students and professors a state-of-

the-art facility will help the science department take off to a new level.”

A PASSION FOR HELPING OTHERSDr. Ami Siems, SNU Sciences Alumna

Quick Fact: SNU offers national internships through the NASA SpaceGrant Consortium

Because of her rich Nazarene heritage, Dr. Sharon Young, professor

emeritus of biology, believes she was destined to teach at Southern

Nazarene University. In fact, her family’s legacy dates back to the origins of

the Church of the Nazarene, as her grandfather was present in 1908 when

the Church began in Pilot Point, Texas. She believes that this legacy is one

of the driving forces that led her to SNU.

“SNU was in my blood,” she said. “I was destined to be here before I was born.”

Dr. Young’s long relationship with SNU began in 1964 when she enrolled

as a student and received her Bachelor’s degree. After having gone on to

receive her M.S. and Ph.D. from Oklahoma State University, her love of

SNU brought her back to BNC/SNU. In 1968 where she began her career

as a biology professor in the then brand new W. Don Beaver Science

Building, which continues to serve the science students and professors

today.

Over the past 44 years, Dr. Young has left a legacy for thousands of

students she has taught and mentored. While she enjoys teaching, she

said it is the moments that she spends one-on-one with her students that

she values the most.

“I love just sitting here in my office talking to students, and I love lecturing

to students,” added Dr. Young. “I don’t like grading or testing, but I enjoy

the personal interaction.”

Dr. Young said that she has always been concerned that her students grow spiritually, as well as in scientifi c knowledge.

She recalled a favorite story where she was working with a student from

China. As they worked, he began to ask her questions about Christ, and

she attempted to answer them all. Even though she humbly felt that she

played only a small part, the student told her that she helped lead him to

asking Christ to be his Savior.

“As a professor, your accomplishment is seeing what your students

accomplish,” Dr. Young added. “It’s great when they become physicians

or professors, but what I really like to hear is that they are also leaders in

their local church or sing in the church choir.”

Dr. Young is also excited about the impact the Campaign for the

Sciences will have on future generations of science students. Her hope

is that having new facilities and equipment will encourage more students

interested in the sciences to choose SNU, so that they can not only grow

in the vocation, but also grow spiritually.

“There will be some positive emotional aspects to the new facility, as well

as positive scientific aspects,” Dr. Young said.

HERITAGE FUELS LONG CAREERDr. Sharon Young, SNU Sciences Professor Emeritus

Quick Fact: The current Science building opened in 1968 – This fall will be its 44th year in use

Dr. W. Don Beaver’s name has become synonymous with Southern

Nazarene University’s science department over the past several

decades. During his long tenure as a chemistry professor,

Dr. Beaver taught and mentored thousands of students who have gone on to do great things in their respective

fields of science.

Much of the admiration and respect from his students comes from his

hands-on approach to learning. Dr. Beaver explained that his desire was to make chemistry interesting, yet challenging, no matter if it was on a field trip or in the science lab. “Translating

textbook material to hands-on learning was exciting,” said Dr. Beaver.

Dr. Beaver’s passion for chemistry was also seen in his students. He

said that he would often find students staying in the labs longer than

required, and that one of his greatest thrills was seeing students make

new discoveries, especially when it occurred within the confines of the

lab. He especially reveled in those students that exhibited ingenuity

when solving problems that arose within the lab.

“I remember when John Norell needed some gold for a particular

experiment he was conducting,” recalled Dr. Beaver. “We didn’t have

any gold in the stock room so he left for a few moments, going to his

dorm room to retrieve his mother’s old wrist watch. John melted it

down and proceeded with his experiment.”

DR. DON BEAVER: HIS LASTING LEGACYW. Don Beaver, SNU Sciences Professor Emeritus

Over the years, Dr. Beaver has watched many students like Norell enter

into his lab as young, bright-eyed students with an interest in science

and go on to become medical doctors, dentists, research scientists,

college professors, and teachers.

“It was exciting to follow their careers and progress,” Dr. Beaver added.

Dr. Beaver’s rich heritage with Southern Nazarene University began

in 1942 when he enrolled as a student at what was then known as

Bethany-Peniel College. Being the son of a Nazarene minister, Dr.

Beaver received great encouragement from his family and his church

to attend what is now SNU.

Even as Dr. Beaver enjoys reflecting on the past and the many lives

he has guided and mentored in the sciences over the years, he is also

passionate about the future of Southern Nazarene University’s science

department and the future generations of students. As a result, Dr.

Beaver believes that the Campaign for the Sciences is a vital next

step in advancing the science department to its maximum potential.

“Being able to provide students and faculty with up-to-date facilities and equipment is of paramount importance,” explained Dr. Beaver.

“Knowing this institution is setting goals for improving its offering to

students and faculty alike will encourage them to seriously consider

SNU as their academic choice.”

As with most things in life that are important, Dr. Beaver said it will

take commitment in order to accomplish the Campaign’s goal of

completing the 25,891-square-foot laboratory adjacent to the current

science building that bears his name.

“To support worthy causes always requires commitment at some level,” he said.

“We are expected to do only our best and others will see the need and

do the rest.”

Now is the time!

OFFICE OF UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT6729 NW 39th Expwy, Bethany, OK 73008