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