You didn't need a telescope to see these "stars" as Hardin-Simmons University honored its finest at the 2008 Faculty-Staff Appreciation Dinner. Leianne McMillan, Chris Carnohan (Alumni Association President), and an army of volunteers created an atmosphere that rivaled many a celebrity gala. Leland Harden, vice president for Institutional Advancement, opened the evening's festivities with prayer, and Dr. W. Craig Turner, university president, emceed the program as the Stars of the Purple and Gold settled in for an evening of recognition, celebration, reflection, and a few goodbyes.

Past and present faculty and staff enjoy the moment

Reverend James Teel, president of the Former Faculty, Staff, Administration Fellowship was out of town, but his stand-in got the ball rolling when by announcing Former Faculty and Staff Members of the Year, Dr. B W Astin and Wanda Thweatt. Dr. Turner recognized the 5, 10, and 15-year service pin recipients, and Dr. Shane Davidson, vice president for enrollment management, awarded the 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40-year pins. The service pins were developed under the presidency of Dr. Elwin L. Skiles, and symbolize the tradition and loyalty shared by the University and her community of faithful personnel who have worked to provide students with an education enlightened by faith.

Mr. Preston, senior vice president for Finance, opened the envelopes to award this year's "Ruperts" to retiring faculty and staff members. Sadly, we say goodbye this year to Dr. Joe Darnall, after 33 years; Dr. Loyd Hawthorne, after 33 years; Mr. David Stovall, after 30 years; Mrs. Linda Carleton, after 23 years; Ms. Mary Frances Mihalakos, after 17 years; and Mrs. Clara Stovall after 15 years.

Retirees pose with their "Ruperts"

Dr. Whitehorn, senior vice president for student development, stepped to the podium to announce the Staff Member of the Year award as a visibly startled Stacey Martin, undergraduate director of academic advising, paused for a moment to make sure she heard the name correctly.

Dr. Ellis, university provost, read the citation and presented the Faculty Member of the Year Award to Dr. Mary Christopher, associate professor of education and certification officer. Both honorees were selected for loyalty and service to Hardin-Simmons University, competence and dedication to responsibilities, high Christian ideals, friendliness and willingness to work productively with everyone, and good rapport with HSU constituents. Given the enthusiastic response from the audience, the 2008 honorees were a popular choice.

The "Culps" made a surprise appearance, honoring Dr. Turner with a medley of favorite tunes. Although immensely entertaining, Dr. Turner called for the immediate return of Dr. Loyd Hawthorne--to help the couple with its somewhat bizarre vocalizations.

The evening ended with an emotional farewell to Dr. Turner, who leaves us later this month. The Alumni Board, Staff Senate, and Faculty Council all presented special "remember us" gifts to our president of seven years, and wished him well as he takes over the leadership of Catawba College. The faculty presented two prints, by local artists, of scenes sure to recall the heritage and flavor of Abilene. The staff commissioned a sculpture, by Steve Neves, assistant professor of art, based on the Browning theme, "Ah, but a man's reach should exceed his grasp. Or what's a heaven for?" As the gathering dispersed, there seemed to be a sense that all would reach a little farther in the coming year.