Bison Talk

Staring down a volatile job market can be a daunting task for a college student. With the unpredictability of the last few years, the job market has changed more than ever. Today, we talked with Monica Wentworth, the assistant dean for career development, about her advice for students entering the job markets, tips on preparing for the transition to professional life, the positives of exploring different career paths, and more!

Monday is the beginning of Engineering Week. Today, we have brought on Dr. Fort Gwinn, the Associate Dean of the College of Engineering, and Megan Davis, the Director of Professional Development in the College of Engineering, to discuss all things E-Week, including the goals of the national movement and all the events Lipscomb has in store. Plus, we also talk about the other annual events the engineering department puts on and the uniqueness of the Peugeot Center.

Welcome to Bison Talk! Fresh off New Member Orientation Week we decided to have an episode all about social clubs. My name is Logan Butts, and today we'll be talking to a pair of people to get the behind the scenes scoop on social clubs on campus, how to join one if interested, what benefits come from joining a club, and more! First, we spoke with Kelvin Kelley, Director of Community Life at Lipscomb. Then we spoke with Sean Hagan, president of the Sigma Alpha men's social club on campus.

As families across the country have been preparing for Christmas over the last few weeks, they may have had difficulty finding the gifts or other items they're looking for or things they've ordered online may be taking longer than expected to arrive. Over the last 18 months or so, supply chains have been disrupted as a result of the pandemic and other factors. And that is impacting everything from Christmas shopping to remodeling a home to buying a new car and everything in between. The College of Business's Dr. Hannah Stolze, director of its new Center for Transformative Sales & Supply Chain Leadership and associate professor of supply chain management, and Dr. Andy Borchers, associate dean and professor, share insight about challenges and opportunities in the industry. Learn more about Lipscomb's Center for Transformative Sales & Supply Chain Leadership.

“Theatre is a highly collaborative art form.”After over a year without live performances for Lipscomb Theatre, audiences are finally back! The crowd-pleasing jukebox musical Mamma Mia! is a hit on campus. We spoke with Beki Baker, the chair of the theatre department and the director of Mamma Mia about returning to the stage, all the behind the scenes work that goes into a production of this caliber (including the music direction, the choreography, the set construction, the costume design, and more!), and how you can see the show this weekend.

On Monday the Department of Fashion and Design will kick off Lipscomb's inaugural Fashion Week. But what exactly can students expect from this brand new event? On this episode, we have Charlotte Poling, the Fashion Executive-in-Residence and Assistant Dean in the College of Entertainment and the Arts. We discussed her career in the fashion industry, the work that went on behind the scenes to make Lipscomb's inaugural Fashion Week happen, and all of the events that are taking place next week.

On Monday the Office of Intercultural Development will begin their flagship event, the Welcome to Our World Week, or WOW for short. So what exactly can students expect from WOW Week and what role does the OID play on campus? Today we have Candace Williams, the Director of Community Life and Student Organizations, specifically with the OID here on campus, as well as Heleena Kabtimer, a student representative for OID here to give us a preview of what's to come at this year's WOW week and explain the role of the OID at Lipscomb.Here's how you can get in contact with the OID:Email: OID@lipscomb.edu Instagram: @OIDlipscombPhone: 615-966-6134Office: Bennett 180 (lower level)

September is National Recovery Month. Last week Lipscomb hosted the campus' first-ever Colleiegate Recovery Academy. So, what exactly is a recovery academy and how does it advance the goals of National Recovery Month? Today we have a panel of experts to answer those questions and more as we welcome Dr. DeAndrea Witherspoon Nash, the lead faculty for the addiction specialization in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program, Nathan Payne, the coordinator of the Tennessee Collegiate Recovery Initiative, and Jaime Harper, an alum of the addiction specialization program and the faith-based coordinator in Tennessee's Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.

In this episode of Bison Talk we spoke with Dr. Willie Steele, Lipscomb English professor, author, and the world's foremost W.P. Kinsella scholar. During our conversation, we worked our way through Steele's career, including his road to becoming a Kinsella expert, what it's like to write a biography, attending the Field of Dreams game, the experience of being interviewed for a documentary, editing the baseball history and culture journal Nine, and more! We even talk a little about Steele's time as a student-athlete at Lipscomb.

Quest Week - it's one of the most notable events every year on the Lipscomb calendar. It's an essential part of becoming a member of the Purple and Gold herd. And it wouldn't happen without the Quest Team. Welcome to Bison Talk! Today we interviewed Jordan Williams and Zach Walker, the 2021 Quest Team Co-Directors. Jordan and Zach answer all our questions about the week ahead, give some behind-the-scenes insight into the process of producing such an event, and even share some tips for incoming freshmen.

After a year-long delay the 2020 Summer Olympics kick off this week in Tokyo, with the opening ceremony taking place on Friday. With the Games set to take over everyone's attention for the next three weeks, we wanted to localize the coverage with some Lipscomb Olympic connections. We're beginning this week's episode with Assistant Vice President of Public Relations and Communications Kim Chaudoin and Communications Coordinator Logan Butts, who both had the opportunity to work a past Olympic Games, discussing their experiences. Then, I spoke with Lipscomb track and field star Shane Streich about running at this year's US Olympic Trials as well as the NCAA National Championship, and more!

In today's episode, we talk with Tom Bancroft, the Artist in Residence in the Lipscomb College of Entertainment and the Arts. During our conversation, we worked our way through Tom's entire career, including his time at the prestigious California Institute of the Arts, his 12 years as a supervising animator at Disney where worked on films like The Lion King, Aladdin, Pocahontas, and Mulan, and his stint with Big Idea Productions, where he was a director for eighth episodes of VeggieTales. We also delve into what made Tom want to become an educator and the newly created MFA program in Animation here at Lipscomb.

Can you celebrate something that is flawed? Is it possible to admit there are problems with an institution, while also praising the things that make it beautiful? JP Conway, a professor here at Lipscomb in the College of Bible and minister at Acklen Avenue Church of Christ, set out to do just that, exploring one of today's toughest challenges when it comes to the church with his new book Broken But Beautiful, Why Church is Still Worth It. During our conversation, we spoke about his book, the importance of in-person church interaction, and even talked a little baseball.

College can be a crucial time for young adults when it comes to taking care of and learning about mental health. Between balancing academics, jobs, and social lives, and simply entering a period of great upheaval and transition, stress, anxiety, and more can rise to the surface. With May being Mental Health Awareness Month, we wanted to find out how college students can form healthy habits. On this episode of Bison Talk we talked to Andrea Mills, the director of the Counseling Center here at Lipscomb University. During our conversation, we spoke about all the amenities and services the Counseling Center has to offer, tips for college students who are struggling with mental health, and the goals of Mental Health Awareness Month.

April marks the 25th anniversary of National Poetry Month, the country's largest literary celebration. Alongside the celebration of the art form, one of the main goals of the month is to further integrate poetry into the classroom. Today we spoke with Dr. Jan Harris, an associate professor of English at Lipscomb University. Harris' collection of poetry, Isolating One's Time in a Time of Crisis, is set to release in October. During our conversation, we spoke about her new book, the importance of integrating poetry into the classroom, why it's important for students to hear about the publishing process, and some of her biggest influences as a writer.

April is Financial Literacy Month, which means organizations across the country are highlighting the importance of financial literacy, especially among the nation's youth, and teaching people how to maintain healthy financial habits. But what exactly does it mean to be financially literate, and is that something that a college student should worry about? On this episode of Bison Talk we spoke with Dr. Jeff Mankin, an assistant professor of accounting at Lipscomb University. Mankin has been recognized for his research in the fields of accounting, business, and financial analysis by the Institute for Global Business Research. We spoke about the importance of financial literacy, how college students can get a jumpstart on maintaining healthy financial habits, and a few simple steps anyone can practice.

Whether you're studying for finals, doing research for a paper, or just looking for a quiet place to get work done, libraries are one of the most useful buildings for students on a college campus. But there's often much more available within those libraries than even the most studious undergrads realize when they first arrive as a freshman. Lipscomb's Beaman Library, which houses a top notch group of Archives and Special Collections, is no exception. So you may find yourself asking, what exactly makes up those archives and how can I access them? On this episode of Bison Talk, we spoke with Elizabeth Rivera, the special collections librarian at Lipscomb, to talk about Beaman Library's Archives and Special Collections, the importance of primary sources, and the new Marie Potter Byers Endowment. Elizabeth, thanks for joining me today. Episode Transcript linked here.

The concept of leadership has many applications. Opportunities to learn from or be a leader exist in both our personal and professional lives. In fact, most of us can be both a leader and a follower, depending on the situation. What does a good leader look like and how can we foster leadership development within ourselves? On this episode of Bison Talk, Dr. Matt Paden, an expert in leadership development as a speaker, consultant and professor of both undergraduate and graduate courses on the subject. His expertise covers leadership as it pertains to an organization, change, culture and development. Paden is also senior vice president of enrollment and student engagement at Lipscomb University, which covers student life, enrollment and university athletics. Click here for an episode transcript.

We all know how important nutrition is to our general health and well-being, but it seems like the rules and guidelines are always changing. With fad diets, exercise trends, and a market saturated with processed and convenience-based food, it can be difficult to really understand what a healthy lifestyle looks like. In the midst of a pandemic, our health is even more important. How can we maintain a healthy lifestyle without being overwhelmed? Featured guests: Autumn Marshall, chair of Lipscomb's Nutrition and Kinesiology department; and Grace White, graduate assistant for the sports nutrition program. Episode Transcript.

With a new school year well underway, many high school juniors and seniors are thinking about what they want to do after graduation. Making the decision about what to do next can be tough. For those who want to continue their education, finding a college or university that is a good fit for them can be stressful at times. This episode sheds light on what can often be an overwhelming process for high school students and their parents. Featured guest: Reggie Blair, senior director of admissions at Lipscomb University.

In the midst of a global pandemic, many of us are beginning to realize what really matters. This increase of time spent at home, without the distractions of our usually busy lives, can be a time of real reflection. It can also be a time of stress, anxiety or loneliness, and this influx of emotion has taught us that we need connection with others. So how can we foster relationships with our family, friends, roommates and significant others in this time of isolation? And why is this network so important? Katie Spirko, assistant professor of psychology, and Hunter Stanfield, assistant professor of family science, are the featured guests to talk about relationships, particularly in a time of isolation. Episode transript.

With the onset of the global pandemic, COVID-19, many aspects of our everyday lives have been restricted, including the ways in which we socialize and exercise. The Center for Disease Control says the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus. So how can we comply with this simple request and still meet our basic needs, particularly in health and fitness? Guest Blaine Donoho, Director of Campus Recreation and Wellness, discusses how we can stay physically active while still complying with CDC guidelines. Episode 1 transcript.

The health care industry is growing rapidly across the nation and especially in our hometown of Nashville, Tennessee, which is arguably the health care capital of the country. Thousands of young people every year prepare to enter the health care field as practitioners, but who will lead these organizations? Dr. Bart Liddle, assistant dean for health care programs in Lipscomb's College of Business, discusses the new Master of Health Administration – and how it is preparing leaders for health care organizations.

When you find your passion and pursue it, that's a very satisfying accomplishment. When you're able to instill that passion in others that's a powerful opportunity. Chelsia Harris, associate professor of nursing and associate executive director of nursing for degree development in Lipscomb University's School of Nursing, is doing that every day as she inspires and trains those called to pursue nursing to find their passion and to follow it through the school's new RN-to-BSN program.

With cyber crime on the rise, expert Dr. Chris Simmons, professor of computer sciences and software engineering in Lipscomb's College of Computing & Technology, shares what we need to know about cyber security and how to protect yourselves online.

Conflict. It's a word that often brings to mind negative feelings or experiences. But conflict is something that comes naturally. It's the clashing of thoughts and ideas – and it is a part of the human experience.

Dodd Galbreath, founding director of Lipscomb's Institute for Sustainable Practice, shares experiences from the summer travel study in Vermont and a little about what's happening this fall.

They left the nest, now what? As students across the country head to colleges for the first time, parents and the families back home have to adjust to a new normal. Chris Gonazlez, director of the Marriage and Family Therapy Program and associate professor of psychology at Lipscomb, who just moved his youngest child into the dorm and is a new empty-nester, shares insight on how to navigate this transition.

Laura Vento, a senior public relations major, is the guest host for this discussion about the intersection of science and religion with physics professor Alan Bradshaw.

Professor Emily Stutzman learns more about the students who are behind running a Room in the Inn program on campus to provide warm accommodations during winter months for the homeless.

Scott Baker, director of marketing and recruiting for Lipscomb University's George Shinn College of Entertainment & the Arts, takes talking with his hands to the next level.

For years, Dr. Jan Harris, associate professor of English, has been an integral part of Lipscomb's Student Scholars Symposium. Rachel Kirsch, a senior strategic communications major, sat down with Harris to learn more about the interdisciplinary event that celebrates the creative and scholarly works of Lipscomb students.

This season has been a historic one for the Lipscomb University men's basketball team as it earned its first trip to the The Big Dance aka the NCAA tournament! Head Coach Casey Alexander takes a look back and a look at what's on the horizon for the program.

Lipscomb Academy Elementary School faculty Becky Collins and Ginger Reasonover are teaching future generations to be good stewards of the world around them through environmental science and Green Team programs. Third grader Jackson Savage is a special guest on this episode to share the lessons he has learned.

For more than half a century, generations of Lipscomb students have brought singing, acting and choreography to life on the stage of Collins Alumni Auditorium as part of one of the university's longest-running traditions — Singarama. Laurie Sain, director of Singarama, shares details about the 55th production of Singarama, which takes place at Lipscomb, April 5-7.

In the wake of last month's Parkland, Florida shooting and other mass shootings that have garnered national media attention this year, many parents are left wondering how do I talk to my children about these horrific events? We sat down with marriage and family therapist Chris Gonzalez to learn how to talk with children about these events, and how to process terror.

This month, Lipscomb Missions is gearing up to send 22 teams and more than 400 individuals to serve over the university's spring break, March 12-16. Tyler Kemmerer, director of Lipscomb Missions, shares details about the long-term vision these short-term mission trips are founded on.

Dr. Marty Makary, a surgeon, New York Times bestselling author and Johns Hopkins health policy expert, stopped by campus recently to watch the premiere of FOX's “The Resident” with film students to share insights into the world of medicine.

Prentice Ashford has a passion for helping individuals find not only their voice, but also a place to belong. As Lipscomb's new dean of intercultural development his goal is to continue to build a community that helps students find their place on an increasingly diverse campus.

One of the most important factors when high school students and their families select a college is the cost. The cost of higher education seems to be in headlines a lot these days. Tiffany Summers, director of financial aid, shares information to help navigate this often confusing and sometimes scary subject.

Academy Awards nominations are out and the chatter has begun about what films will be recognized for their excellence and what films didn't make the cut. Steve Taylor, director of the School of Theatre and Cinematic Arts, shares his insight on the best films of the year and what to look for at this year's Academy Awards.

No matter where you live across the country or around the world, a graduate degree in sustainability is just a mouse-click away! Dodd Galbreath, founding director of Lipscomb's Institute for Sustainable Practices, shares details of this new program.

When *Sandra Parham* walks into a library she sees more than row after row of books lining shelves. She sees potential.

Helping Lipscomb students succeed academically is a top priority for Brian Mast, associate provost for academic support services.

Guest host Willie Steele, professor of English, talks with professors Ted Parks and Matt Hearn, about the decade of Lipscomb's HumanDocs Series and the impact it has made on campus and in the community.

Dr. Klarissa Jackson, assistant professor of pharmaceutical sciences in Lipscomb's College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, shares the latest progress in her National Institutes of Health-funded cancer research and the journey that led her to Lipscomb.

An athletic program is traditionally a key part of student life at any university. At Lipscomb, the Bison athletic program has been a central part of campus life for decades. Athletic Director and former Bison athlete Philip Hutcheson shares the vision and successes of Lipscomb athletics.

Since 2009, Lipscomb University has supported our nation's heroes as they transition from a life of service to student life. Chad Staggs, director of Lipscomb's Veterans Services Office, sheds light on Lipsocmb's veterans program, which aids more than 200 student veterans on-campus who have previously served or are currently serving in the armed forces.

With more than 40,000 living alumni, Lipscomb University's Office of Alumni Relations works tirelessly to engage its growing alumni base and connect them to their alma mater. Phil Ellenburg, vice president of alumni relations, sheds light on Homecoming 2017, which will be held Nov. 9-12, and what alumni can expect about this year's event.

For the 35 years that Ruth Corey felt called to pursue nursing as a vocation, she has experienced the profession at all levels. Now, she shares her passion for nursing as executive director of Lipscomb University's School of Nursing.

As summer turns to fall and a new school year is well underway, many high school graduates begin to think about what they want to do after graduation. Reggie Blair, director of admissions at Lipscomb University, sheds light on what can often be an overwhelming process for high school students and their parents.