54th Annual Meeting of the South Central Conference of the United Church of Christ

Delegate Booklet

Isaiah 60:4

Hosted by the North Texas Association and the Cathedral of Hope UCC 5910 Cedar Springs Road, Dallas, TX 75235

June 9-10, 2017

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Table of Contents

Welcome Letter………………………………………………………………………………………2

Annual Meeting Schedule……………………………………………………………………….3

Cathedral of Hope Campus/Double-Tree Hilton Information…………………..6

CoH Layout Map……………………………………………………………………………………..7

Keynote Speaker Biography…………………………………………………………………….9

Designated Conference Minister Biography……………………………………………10

Schedule for Plenary Sessions 1,2, & 3 …………………………………………………..12

SCC Annual Meeting 2016 Meeting Minutes ………………………………………….13

Nominating Committee Report & Slate of Nominees 2017 …………………….16

Slumber Falls Camp Report …………………………………………………………………….22

Treasurer’s Report ………………………………………………………………………………….25

Heart of Texas Association Minister’s Annual Report………………………………28

Houston Association Minister’s Annual Report ………………………………………30

New Orleans Association Minister’s Annual Report………………………………..32

North Texas Association Minister’s Annual Report ………………………………..33

Huston-Tillotson University Report…………………………………………………………37

South Central Conference Statistical Profile……………………………………………49

Welcome to Dallas and to the Annual Meeting of the South Central Conference of the UCC. You are in for an exciting time as together we will worship God and consider how best to live out

God's will in this world. Our prayer is that you will meet new friends and see new visions over

the next two days. Welcome.

The South Central Conference wishes to thank the North Texas Association, the Cathedral of Hope UCC, Rev. Steve Wilson, Rev. Scott Spence, and the Annual

Meeting Planning Team consisting of Rev. Dr. Longbottom, Rev. Jeremy Albers, Terri Armstrong, Stacey Silvey, and Pam Mayo for the Annual Meeting

preparations. In addition, the Conference wishes to thank all those who provided reports and other information for our delegate booklet and for the meeting. We

appreciate this great team effort to host this year’s Annual Meeting.

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Friday, June 9, 2017 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Boundary Training 201 Interfaith Peace Chapel – Downstairs Conference Room A/B 8:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. SCC Board Executive Committee Meeting CoH-Main Building – Upstairs Conference Room 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. SCC Board Meeting CoH-Main Building – Upstairs Conference Room ____________________________________________________________________________ 11:00 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Registration Check In Mission Kit Intake CoH-Main Building – Main Entrance 12:00 noon - 12:45 p.m. Lunch Break (for those in Boundary Training 201 and for SCC Board) CoH-Main Building – Fellowship Hall 12:15 p.m. - 12:45 p.m. Delegate Orientation CoH-Main Building – Chapel Side – Main Sanctuary 12:45 - 2:15 p.m. Plenary Session (15 minute opening, 1 hour plenary session, 15 minutes for speak outs) CoH-Main Building – Main Sanctuary 2:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Break CoH-Main Building – Narthex and Fellowship Hall 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Workshops I Rev. Carol Howard Merritt CoH-Main Building – Chapel Side – Main Sanctuary Rev. Scott Spence (Reaching Out to Younger Adults) Interfaith Peace Chapel – Conference Room A/B - Downstairs Rev. Dr. Don Longbottom and Rev. Ron Trimmer (Future of the Church)

CoH-Main Building – Congregational Life Center Children’s Chapel

3:30 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. Break CoH-Main Building – Narthex and Fellowship Hall 3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. Workshops II Rev. Carol Howard Merritt CoH-Main Building – Chapel Side – Main Sanctuary Rev. Scott Spence (Reaching Out to Younger Adults) Interfaith Peace Chapel – Conference Room A/B - Downstairs Rev. Dr. Don Longbottom and Rev. Ron Trimmer (Future of the Church)

CoH-Main Building – Congregational Life Center Children’s Chapel

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4:45 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Break CoH-Main Building – Narthex and Fellowship Hall 5:00 p.m. - 6:15 p.m. Worship Rev. Lee Ann Bryce CoH-Main Building – Main Sanctuary 6:15 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Travel (between CoH and hotel) 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Reception (hotel) 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. or so Banquet (hotel) Saturday, June 10, 2017 7:45 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. Clergy Breakfast (hotel) 8:00 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. Continental Breakfast for Delegates/Visitors (at CoH) CoH-Main Building – Narthex and Fellowship Hall 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Address by Keynote Speaker - Rev. Carol Howard Merritt CoH-Main Building – Main Sanctuary 10:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. Break CoH-Main Building – Narthex and Fellowship Hall 10:15 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. Plenary Session (plenary only; no speak outs) CoH-Main Building – Main Sanctuary 11:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Lunch (Box Lunches) CoH-Main Building – Narthex and Fellowship Hall 12:45 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Plenary Session (15 minutes for speak outs; 1 hour plenary) CoH-Main Building – Main Sanctuary 2:00 p.m. - 2:15 p.m. Break CoH-Main Building – Narthex and Fellowship Hall 2:15 p.m. - 3:15 p.m. Closing Worship - Rev. Carol Howard Merritt CoH-Main Building – Main Sanctuary Sunday, June 11, 2017 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Boundary Training 101 Interfaith Peace Chapel – Downstairs Conference Room A/B

WHERE FAITH AND FINANCE INTERSECT

Faith & FinanceCorporate Social Responsibility

Health Plans

Charitable Giving

Investments Ministerial Assistance

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Cathedral of Hope UCC Campus 5910 Cedar Springs Road, Dallas, TX 75235

Annual Meeting & Boundary Training Location

Double-Tree by Hilton, Dallas-Love Field 3300 W. Mockingbird Lane, Dallas, TX 75235 Hotel Accommodations & Banquet Location

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SCC ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2017 BUILDING MAP

2ND FLOOR FOR BOARD AND EXEC COMMITTEE ONLY

SCC Exe Meeting

and Board Meeting

From Sanctuary – Elevators and Stairs

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SCC ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2017 BUILDING MAP

1ST FLOOR SANCTUARY

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Meet Rev. Carol Howard Merritt 54th Annual Meeting

Keynote Speaker

Rev. Carol Howard Merritt (@CarolHoward) is a Presbyterian (USA) minister whose writing, speaking, and teaching is anchored in theological and sociological insight. She’s a much sought-after keynote speaker, especially on the topic of ministering to a new generation of Christians.

The award-winning author of Tribal Church: Ministering to the Missing Generation, Reframing Hope: Vital Ministry in a New Generation, and Healing Spiritual Wounds: Reconnecting with a Loving God After Experiencing a Hurtful Church, Carol is a frequent contributor to books, websites, magazines, and journals. She is a regular writer at the Christian Century where her blog is hosted.

Carol is an Adjunct Faculty member at Dubuque Theological Seminary and a Senior Consultant at the Center for Progressive Renewal. She is a founder and host of UNCO, an open space “unconference” that attracts church leaders across denominations and generations. Since 2011, this growing community of participants meets to generate ideas and develop plans for ministry. She also co-hosts the thought-provoking podcast, God Complex Radio, with Rev. Derrick Weston.

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The SCC Board of Directors is pleased to announce their candidate for a Settled

Conference Minister Dr. Don

Dr. Don, as he is affectionately called, grew up in Yuma, Arizona and graduated from Arizona State University with both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Political Science. After working the next few years, Dr. Don attended Golden Gate Seminary where he graduated with honors. His first congregation was Immanuel Baptist Church in Alameda, Ca. While serving this congregation, he was accepted into the PhD program at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, Ca. where his field of study was social ethics. Ultimately, Don received his doctorate in 2001 from Andover Newton School of Religion. As his theological convictions matured, Dr. Don was attracted to the Mennonite Church over issues of social justice as defined by the life of Christ. After having served Mennonite congregations in both Ohio and Kansas, he served as a chaplain at Prairie Psychiatric Hospital in Newton, Kansas. Since 1991, Dr. Don has served throughout the United States as a Senior Minister in the United Church of Christ. His final settled ministry was at Countryside

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Community UCC, a 2,000-member congregation. While serving at Countryside, he was invited by Senator Chuck Hagel to open the U.S. Senate with prayer. Starting in 2006, he began serving highly conflicted congregations. Utilizing techniques taken from Appreciative Inquiry and insights gained over many years as a church leader, Dr. Don has helped numerous fractured congregations to work their way back to health and wholeness. Rev. Dr. Longbottom is currently the Designated Conference Minister for the South Central Conference of the United Church of Christ. Since beginning his tenure with the Conference, he has traveled tirelessly around Texas and Louisiana, visiting UCC churches both big and small. Dr. Don says, “I love the job, the travel, and the challenges. I believe as relationships develop, the work is only going to get better. I deeply value clergy, and I believe they are aware of my care and respect. My experience is congregational rather than institutional, and that is a huge plus as I have lived the life; and I know church.” This sense that Don was and is called to serve the SCC resonates not only with our Board, but also with Don. That calling is the most important aspect of any minister’s vocational path, and we are all blessed by that in our South Central Conference. Dr. Don lives with his wife Mary Ann and his 92-year-old mother June. They have three beloved Vizslas (aka Hungarian Pointers), one of which, Siri travels with him everywhere. Dr. Don is a lifelong Cowboys fan. The South Central Conference President and Board of Directors, in their February Quarterly Board Meeting, voted unanimously to present Dr. Don as their candidate to serve as the settled Conference Minister. The Board will officially present Don to the SCC at Annual Meeting for a Conference-wide vote to this effect. The Board is glad that you are here to participate in this joyous occasion.

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ANNUAL MEETING SCHEDULE FOR PLENARY SESSIONS 1, 2, & 3 South Central Conference of the United Church of Christ

Cathedral of Hope, UCC, Dallas, Texas June 9-10, 2017

Friday, June 9, 12:45 – 2:15pm: Plenary Session #1

I. Opening Prayer II. Call to Order Board President Dan De Leon III. Verification of a Quorum Board Clerk Vicki Sheil-Hopper IV. Welcome Board President Dan De Leon V. Introduction of Guests Designated Conference Minister Don Longbottom VI. Introduction of New Clergy DCM Don Longbottom VII. Introduction of Board Members Board President Dan De Leon VIII. Approval of the Annual Meeting Agenda Board President Dan De Leon IX. Approval of 2016 Annual Meeting Minutes Board President Dan De Leon X. Nominating Committee Report (Vote on 2017 slate in Plenary #3)

Nominating Committee Chair Anne Wehrly XI. Approval of Amendments to Conference’s Constitution and Bylaws

a. Review of Amendments Process Board Member Nikki Stahl b. Speak-outs of Support & Opposition c. Vote on Approval of Amendments to Constitution and Bylaws

XII. Speak-outs XIII. Announcements

Saturday, June 10, 10:30am – 11:30am: Plenary Session #2

I. Opening Prayer II. Report to the Conference DCM Don Longbottom III. Conference Personnel Committee Assessment of DCM Board VP Phil Burnett IV. Board Affirmation of DCM Board President Dan De Leon V. Vote on Candidate for Settled Conference Minister: Rev. Dr. Don Longbottom VI. Special Recognitions DCM Don Longbottom VII. Announcements

Saturday, June 10: 12:45pm – 2pm: Plenary Session #3

I. Opening Prayer II. Slumber Falls Camp Report Director of Outdoor Ministry Jeremy Albers III. Treasurer’s Report

Conference Treasurer Bobby Springfield IV. Appreciation to Conference Board, General Synod Delegates, and Committee and Camp

Council Members with Expiring Terms Board President Dan De Leon V. Approval of 2017 Slate of Nominees for SCC Board, Committees, Camp Council, and

General Synod Delegation Board President Dan De Leon VI. Speak-outs VII. Announcements VIII. Recognitions and Commissioning DCM Don Longbottom IX. Motion to Adjourn and Closing Prayer

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+++South Central Conference Annual Meeting 2016 Minutes+++ Prepared by Acting SCC Board Secretary Beth Gleason, June 3-4, 2016

Friday, June 3, 2016 – Evening Plenary (Session I) SCC Board President Dan De Leon called the meet to order and quorum was confirmed by SCC Acting Secretary Beth Gleason. Approval of Annual Meeting Agenda - motion to approve by Gary Kindley; Greg Johnson – 2nd. Motion approved. 2015 Annual Meeting minutes were not available in hard copy form. The minutes would be made available at the second plenary, SAT 6/4. 2017 Budget introduced by SCC Vice President Phil Burnet. After a brief introduction of the budget, Phil requested the Conference attendees to review it further prior to 6/4 vote. Nominating Committee Report from SCC Board President. Dan DeLeon introduced the slate of lay and clergy nominees for the current Board vacancies and the offices that need to be filled. The nominees: Vicki Sheil-Hopper, Bobby Springfield, Bessie Griffin, Nikki Stahl, Burton Bagby-Grose, Linda Coats, Jon Haack, Greg Johnson, Alison Bess, Tim Marrow, Darnell Fennell, Leslie Jackson, Phil Brockett, Megan Bourg, Ray Jordan, and Alberto Magana. Vote to take place Saturday, 6/4, at second plenary session. Slumber Falls Camp report from Director of Outdoor Ministry Charles Stark Report from Conference Board President. Dan DeLeon gave a moving address about Board of Directors highlights over the past year. Designated Conference Minister addressed the Conference with greetings and conciliatory remarks. Announcements: There will be child care during the Annual Meeting in Galleria B during Annual Meeting (no age limit). Ken Crawford has recording equipment for each Conference session to create a webinar. Saturday June 4, 2016 – Afternoon Plenary (Session II) Opening prayer at 2:05 pm by Rev. Charles Stark Introduction of our Designated Conference Minister, Rev. Dr. Don Longbottom, by Rev. Dr. Dan De Leon

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DCM address to South Central Conference by Rev. Longbottom. Dr. Don articulated his preliminary goals and future visioning process for our Conference: “The feel of this place is that there's good things waiting to happen.” Approval of SCC 2017 Annual budget: Presented by SCC VP Phil Burnett. Floor opened for discussion. Treasurer Ann Stockert acted as advisor from the Board of Directors. The questions on Annual Meeting budget related to 2017 budget health line items, and the DCM’s salary packages. Motion to approve: Jim Murphy. Barb Nunn 2nd. Voting cards: 75 yes. 0 no. No abstentions. Motion carried. 2016-2017 Nomination Committee report – SCC President Dan De Leon. Vote to accept slate of nominees for SCC Board of Directors, Nominating Committee, Personnel Committee, Camp Council, and General Synod Delegates. Motion to accept by Rev. Burton Bagby-Grose, Mona Lopez – 2nd. 62 yes; 1 no; no abstentions. Motion carried. SCC Nominating Committee was recognized and thanked for their hard work. Recognition and appreciation of outgoing Board and Committee members, as well as Slumber Falls Camp Council members whose terms are ending made by Board President Dan De Leon. A special recognition for our beloved longtime Treasurer, Mrs. Ann Stockert, was made, with a special plaque presented in gratitude for her years of service to the Conference. Rev. Scott Spence, North Texas Association Moderator, formally welcomed all Annual Meeting participants to the 2017 Annual Meeting at the Cathedral of Hope, Dallas, TX, June 2017, date TBD. Announcements: Aprons and books were still available for sale. Slumber Falls still had summer camp openings with scholarships available. Speak-outs. Motion to adjourn the Annual Meeting by Teresa Martinez, Rev. Christine Ng – 2nd. South Central Conference Annual Meeting 2016 adjourned at 2:53 pm. Closing and adjournment prayer by SCC Board President Dan De Leon.

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South Central Conference 2017 Annual Meeting

NOMINATING COMMITTEE REPORT

Conference Board of Directors Vice President: Two -Year Term to 2019

Rev. Nikki Stahl

Board Members: Three-Year Terms Class of 2020 Terry Martinez Esquibel-Houston Association Ruth Avila-North Texas Association Rev Trent Williams-Heart of Texas Association Personnel Committee: Patsy Bjorling -North Texas Association Rev. Dr. Jo Hudson -North Texas Association Nominating Committee: Three-Year Term Class of 2020 Rev. Dr. Neil Cazarres-Thomas–North Texas Association Rev. Dr. Liz Nash-Heart of Texas Association General Synod Delegates-2019 & 2021 Susan Perry (Lay)- North Texas Association Jan Nunn (Lay)- North Texas Association alt. Rev. Peter Bauer-Heart of Texas Association Rev. Dr. Jerry Carpenter- Heart of Texas Association alt. Andrew Robler- (Lay) Heart of Texas Association (under 30 yrs.) Joshua Mata -(Lay) Heart of Texas Association alt. 1 (under 30 yrs.) Phillip Guillen II -(Lay) Heart of Texas Association alt. 2 (under 30 yrs.) Rev. Phil Brockett- New Orleans Association Rev. Susan Lassalle- New Orleans Association alt. Dr LaTayna Purnell (Lay) Houston Association Renee Thompson (Lay) Houston Association alt.

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2017 Conference Nominating Committee: Chairperson: Anne Wehrly Class of 2017 Charles Brown North Texas Association Gwen Smith New Orleans Association Class of 2018 Barney Federwisch Houston Association Karen Schmeltekopf North Texas Association Class of 2019 Anne Wehrly Heart of Texas Association Jane Holland Houston Association Marie Weatherspoon New Orleans Association

BRIEF NOMINEE BIOGRAPHIES Ruth Avila Cosmopolitan UCC–Carrollton, TX Ruth is one of the organizers and founding members of her church which was established in 1995. She has served on various committees and on the council. She was honored by the Committee on Women’s Ministries at the 2009 General Synod. She was active in the sister UCC denomination in the Philippines before immigrating to the US. Rev. Peter Bauer Faith UCC- New Braunfels, TX Peter has worked as a local church minister in the Missouri Conference and in Southern California Conference. He has served as a Navy Chaplain in a wide variety of assignments both overseas and in the continental US. Peter has facilitated boundary training in the South Central Conference. He works as a mental health professional with an expertise in assisting people in dealing with trauma. Patricia R. “Patsy” Bjorling Cathedral of Hope-Dallas, TX Patsy has worked in the non-profit setting in the areas of development, public relations, and management. She served the Hawaii Conference UCC, helping churches fund

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their ministries. In her current position at CoH she serves as the director of development (stewardship). Rev. Phil Brockett Central St. Matthew-New Orleans, LA After serving in another denomination, Phil found a home in the UCC because of its extravagant welcome to all. Phil has served as in interim pastor in a UCC church in Connecticut and has been at this current church in New Orleans for over two years. In his previous experiences, he has planted a new church and revitalized a long established and declining church. He participates in denominational meetings and collegial clergy groups. Rev. Dr. Jerry Carpenter Weimar UCC-Weimar, TX Jerry has served in leadership roles in the Brazos Association (former) now Heart of Texas Association –Chair, Committee on Ministry, Moderator, and former Delegate to General Synod. He has served his current church in Weimar for 13 years. Prior to his call to ministry, he was an educator in the public schools with training in counseling. Rev. Dr. Neil Cazares-Thomas Cathedral of Hope-Dallas, TX Neil has served as the Senior Pastor of CoH since June, 2015. He has previously served churches in England and in Los Angeles. Neil has specific experience in helping to shape and select the right people to serve in positions throughout the leadership of the church. In February of this year, he received the 2017 Shalom Award presented annually to a member of the Dallas community who “demonstrates the highest standard of community service, leadership, and character.” Terry Martinez Esquibel Plymouth UCC–Spring, TX Terry has served her church in multiple roles e.g. Moderator, Missions and Outreach team, and Pastoral Relations committee. She has been a delegate to the Houston Association meetings 2014-2017. Terry serves the wider church as a board member for the UCC Disability Ministry since 2015 and currently is Vice Chair of that group. Terry is a regular volunteer at Slumber Falls Work Camp. Philip Guillen II Friends Congregational–College Station, TX Philip is nominated for the under 30 alternate delegate to General Synod 2019 & 2021. He has been active in his local congregation e.g. participating in youth led services, volunteering at the local church pantry, participating in the 30 hour famine retreat, and

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assisting with Syrian refugee clothing and toy drive. He has attended the National Youth Event as well as mission trips to Alabama, Dallas, and Waco. Rev. Dr. Jo Hudson New Church-Chiesa Nuova –Dallas, TX Jo has pastored three churches in the South Central Conference: a renewing church, Friends Congregational; a large membership church, new to the UCC, The Cathedral of Hope; and her current new church start. Jo has taught UCC History and Polity at Brite Divinity School. She has served as the President of the SCC Board. She is a board member of the Center for Progressive Renewal and serves as a Board of Trustees member, Eden Theological Seminary. Rev. Susan Lassalle Little Farms UCC-River Ridge, LA Susan started her career as an educator (21 years). She has been a pastor for 11 years—first with the Disciples of Christ and now with the UCC in her current church in Louisisana. Susan is active in social justice issues, loves the extravagant welcome of the UCC, and believes that God is Still Speaking. She is passionate about the church being relevant, active, and engaged in local communities and the world. Joshua Mata United Christian Church-Austin, TX Joshua is nominated for the under 30 alternate delegate to General Synod 2019 & 2021. As a youth group member, he was a youth elder starting a group called NinjaCare which distributed anonymous care packages. He has participated in 6 mission trips as part of his youth group. Currently attending the University of Texas, he is a Leadership Ministries Fellow/Scholar. Rev. Dr. Liz Nash Congregational Church of Austin, TX Currently the Association Minister for Heart of Texas, Liz has served on church boards, led youth groups, participated in women’s groups, served in outreach programs such as serving homeless lunches. Liz has been the adult planner and chaperone for multi church mission trips, the National Youth Event, and Southern regional Youth Event. She currently serves on the board for Back Bay Mission. Jan Nunn Cathedral of Hope-Dallas, TX Jan is currently the Chair of the CoH Committee on Ministry. She serves as a delegate to North Texas Association meetings and to the SCC Annual meeting in 2016. She is

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described as “an efficient and caring leader who is fully committed to the mission and vision of the UCC in all its settings.” Susan Perry, Ph.D Cathedral of Hope-Dallas, TX Susan is currently a Member in Discernment in the North Texas Association. At her church, she has worked on the CoH bylaws committee, pastoral search committee, and initiated a Women’s Council with the goal of “assisting women from the congregation in working towards more self-determination in the church community and beyond.” LaTanya Purnell, Ph.D. First Congregational Church of Houston, TX La Tanya has a broad experience working with youth for over 25 years as a teacher and education administrator. She holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy. She moved to Texas from her UCC church in Massachusetts about a year ago. She currently serves her church by working with the Director of Christian Education and Senior Minister to plan and lead programs for youth. LaTayna is a student at Perkins Theological School studying to become an ordained UCC minister. Andrew Robler Friends Congregational–College Station, TX Andrew is nominated for the under 30 delegate to General Synod 2019 & 2021. He is currently a student at Texas A&M University. At his home congregation he has served on the Faith, Inclusion and Disability Awareness Team for two years. He has led the 20-s and 30s group and is a regular participant in offering children’s messages on Sunday morning. Andrew has served as a delegate from Friends to the South Central Conference Annual meeting. He has served for 4 years as a facilitator for Ally training at TAMU. Rev. Nikki Stahl United Christian Church-Austin, TX Nikki has served for 5 1/2 yrs. as an Associate pastor at her church. Her position has concentrated on congregational care and counseling. She has recently completed supervision hours for Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Nikki serves on the Heart of Texas Executive committee and is the current HoT Delegate to the Conference Board of Directors. Nikki has worked with others on the revision of the conference constitution and bylaws and has appeared at the spring association meetings to answer questions regarding the changes. C. Renee Thompson Pilgrim UCC -Houston, TX

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Renee is the South Central Conference delegate from her church to the Annual meeting. She represents her church at Houston Association meetings. Renee has been a regular participant from our conference in annual mission trips to Back Bay Mission. Rev. Trent Williams Friends Congregational –College Station, TX Trent is in his 14th year of ministry and currently serves as the Associate pastor at Friends Congregational. He returned to Texas after serving churches in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. He grew up in the South Central Conference and “has a deep and passionate commitment to the United Church of Christ and our ministry in Texas and Louisiana.”

Camp Council

Elizabeth Jaroszewski Grace UCC-Houston, TX Elizabeth is 26 years old and living/working in the New Braunfels area. Slumber Falls Camp has always had a significant presence in her life. She was a camper from ages 7 to 18. She also has served as counselor-in-training, counselor, and director for the camp. She was a member of the SALT staff during the 2010 summer season, and worked as a fill-in SALT for part of the summer in 2009 and 2011. In her free time, she volunteers with Fiesta Youth, a youth group for LGBTQIA teens in San Antonio. She credits Slumber Falls with giving her the opportunity to develop the leadership skills that allow her to serve this group of teens. SFC is a special place, and that is why she has spent many summers volunteering. Elizabeth is eager to serve the camp in any way she is able.

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2017 ANNUAL REPORT TO THE SOUTH CENTRAL CONFERENCE

“Behold, I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” Isaiah 43:19 repeatedly comes to mind as I see the transformations occurring at Slumber Falls Camp and the South Central Conference. Since I began officially working January 1, 2017, the pool renovation to repair the faulty plumbing, leaks and safety concerns is nearing completion. Dun Wandering, one of the dilapidated screen cabins, came down at Work Camp, and the new Bruce Cabin, which is being built to accommodate families and people with mobility issues is now underway and should be completed towards the end of summer. The office has undergone a deep cleaning and an internal facelift to be more welcoming and functional. The Director’s house underwent some minor renovations, carpet replacing, and internal painting. We have added a new power service and plumbing to relieve the load and accommodate the growth and expansion. The road project is slated to begin in a couple of weeks to patch potholes, seal the entry drive, and repave the parking lot on the main side of camp. Work Camp this year cleaned up flower beds and landscaping, cleaned and re-stained much of the decking, and rebuilt the fire circles and repaired the seating areas around them. Last summer, we built a new river deck with rocking chairs and porch swings. While these are some of the more noticeable improvements, many smaller items and projects have been completed. The South Central Conference Office has moved to the camp. I would like to extend a warm invitation to everyone in our churches and part of our camp family to find a time to check out all the new things that are occurring at the camp. This summer promises to be another great summer at Slumber Falls. We have seven SALT workers, two of which are from New Zealand, with the remaining coming from the U.S. We have a stellar slate of directors and counselors already on board for the summer. They are eager to help campers find true community, connect to God, and learn what it means to be part of God’s creation. There is still time to register for camp. Outdoor ministries are powerful transformational experiences that will forever shape the lives of the participants and teach them skills in how to live as Christians in a globally, diverse world. We understand that attending a camp is a privilege in our culture. The rising cost of camp makes this incredible ministry a struggle for many families with children and youth. We have camp scholarships support, which is critical for our ministry to our children and youth. If you would like to learn about the positive effects of outdoor ministries and how they shape our youth, please contact the camp office so that we can find a time to visit. As your camping ministry, we continue to rely on financial support from congregations and individuals. Becoming a Friend of the Camp allows us to expand our ministry, support the 80 year old facilities, and offer new resources and amenities to our camps and retreat groups. Major gifts, legacies, memorials, and yearly contributions are responsibly managed and put to good use. We are still recruiting Volunteer Staff for each of our camps. Applications are filled out online. The process includes a criminal background check, letter of reference, and an online boundary training course. Please remember that we have a Volunteer Incentive Program. If you counsel for a week of camp, your child can attend a week of camp for free! We have color brochures with information about our 2017 summer camp program available at the annual meeting display table. Please pick some up and share them with friends, neighbors and in your workplace. Summer 2018 dates are set, and Summer 2019 are tentatively set to help congregations better schedule events. Rev. Jeremy Albers Director of Outdoor Ministry

"Camp for a Week, Friends for Life"™

SLUMBER FALLS CAMP & RETREAT CENTER 3610 River Road • New Braunfels, TX 78132

Office 830-625-2212 Fax 830-625-4688

office@slumberfalls.org www.slumberfalls.org

2015 2016HEART OF TEXAS ASSOCIATIONBethany Congregational UCC San Antonio 79.36$ 157.38$

Church of the Savior Cedar ParkCongregational UCC-Austin Austin 200.00$ 400.00$ Evangelical UCC Lyons 500.00$ 500.00$ Faith UCC Bryan 711.25$ 200.00$ Faith UCC New Braunfels 712.00$ 1,457.45$ Faith United Church - UCC/UMC WoodsboroFriedens UCC Gay HillFriedens UCC Geronimo 300.00$ Friedens UCC Washington 500.00$ Friends Congregational UCC College StationHope UCC GeorgetownRedeemer UCC (Zuehl) Marion 2,715.00$ 2,500.00$ Rolling Hills Community Church Lago VistaSt. John's UCC Burton 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$ St. Paul UCC LockhartSt. Peters Church of Coupland UCC Coupland 464.00$ 100.00$ Trinity Church AustinUnited Christian Church - UCC/DOC Austin 600.00$ 600.00$ Weimar UCC - Weimar Weimar 500.00$

HOT Total 7,981.61$ 7,214.83$

HOUSTON ASSOCIATIONBethel UCC HoustonCathedral of Hope HoustonChrist United Church of Cypress Cypress 932.00$ 456.00$ Community of Faith Church of Houston HoustonFirst Congregational Church Houston 750.00$ 5,000.00$ Friedens UCC BeasleyGrace UCC Houston 1,300.00$ 300.00$ Houston Women Asso.(Women's Retreat) Houston 380.00$ 371.00$ Immanuel UCC Spring 700.00$ 700.00$ Just Love Church HoustonPilgrim Congregational UCC HoustonPlymouth Congregational UCC BeaumontPlymouth UCC Spring 678.00$ 882.43$ SCC Annual Meeting (SFC Scholarship) Houston 1,080.00$ 918.00$ St. John UCC Houston 1,000.00$ St. John UCC Rosenberg 559.16$ 417.48$ St. Paul UCC Corpus ChristiSt. Peter UCC Houston 300.00$ 300.00$ Vision UCC Houston

HA Total 7,679.16$ 9,344.91$

SCC CHURCH & ORGANIZATION CONTRIBUTIONS - Slumber Falls Camp

2015 2016SCC CHURCH & ORGANIZATION CONTRIBUTIONS - Slumber Falls Camp

NEW ORLEANS ASSOCIATIONBeecher Memorial UCC New OrleansBelle UCC New IberiaCentral-St. Matthew Congr. UCC New OrleansFirst Trinity Evangelical UCC New OrleansFreedom Fellowship New OrleansGood Shepherd UCC Metairie 145.00$ Hubbard UCC GueydanLittle Farms UCC River RidgeSalem UCC New OrleansSt. Paul UCC New OrleansSt. Paul UCC New IberiaTeche UCC New IberiaSt. Mary Congregational UCC Abbeville

NO Total 145.00$ -$

NORTH TEXAS ASSOCIATIONAm. Samoan First Congregational UCC Cooperas CoveCathedral of Hope DallasCentral Congregational UCC Dallas 4,000.00$ 2,000.00$ Cosmopolitan UCC CarrolltonEmbrace UCC BedfordFirst Community UCC Dallas 1,050.00$ First Congregational UCC Ft. Worth 500.00$ 500.00$ First Samoan Congr. Church UCC ArlingtonFirst United Church WestFriedens Evangelical & Reformed RieselNew Church - Chiesa Nuova Dallas 2,000.00$ Promise UCC DallasRound Grove UCC Lewisville 350.00$ 350.00$ St. John UCC - Otto OttoSt. John UCC - Robinson RobinsonSt. Paul UCC MarlinSt. Paul UCC - Gerald Elm MottSt. Paul's Evangelical & Reformed UCC Dallas 350.00$ Union Congregational UCC FrionaUnited Congregational UCC Lubbock 13.00$ 8.00$ Woodland Chrsitian Church - UCC/DOC LongviewZion UCC Clifton

NTA Total 8,263.00$ 2,858.00$ Total for SCC Churches 24,068.77$ 19,417.74$

OTHER (NON-UCC)Celebration Circle San Antonio 623.00$ 820.00$ Cross Church Seguin 650.00$ 650.00$ Immanuel Evangelical Needville 2,500.00$ 1,500.00$ Overeaters Anonymous 100.00$ Peace Church - Tynan Tynan 175.00$ 225.00$ Women's 12 Step Austin 200.00$

Other Total 4,048.00$ 3,395.00$ TOTAL 28,116.77$ 22,812.74$

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May 26, 2017

Treasurer’s Report to the South Central Conference of the United Church of Christ

I want to welcome the delegates of the South Central Conference to my home church, Cathedral of Hope, United Church of Christ where I had the honor and privilege of serving as the Treasurer of the Board of Stewards for over four years. My tenure as Treasurer, at Cathedral of Hope, was noted for the transparency I brought to the church in regards to the financial condition of the church and that will be the guiding principal during my tenure as Treasurer of the South Central Conference.

The cash position of the South Central Conference is strong and on solid ground. As of December 31, 2016 the South Central Conference had a cash balance of $990,265. This balance breaks down as:

South Central Conference $479,851 Slumber Falls $ 86,851 United Church Funds – SCC $398,112 United Church Funds – SF $ 25,450

The Total Assets of the South Central Conference as of December 31, 2016 were $1,456,513 with cash/cash equivalents responsible for 68% of this total.

Total contributions to the conference has decreased 16% since FY 2013. In FY 2013 the South Central Conference received $350,305 from member churches. Total contributions for FY 2016 dropped to $293,184 a decrease of $57,121. This decrease is across all associations:

Association 2013 2016 Decrease Percentage

Heart of Texas $120,715 $ 91,427 ($29,288) 24% Houston $ 93,018 $ 72,524 ($20,494) 22% New Orleans $ 28,415 $ 22,523 ($ 5,892) 21% North Texas $112,841 $102,398 ($10,443) 9%

In 2016 the South Central Conference received $293,184 in contributions. The breakout of this is:

OCWM $211,446 National Ministries $ 65,699 Conference Missions $ 16,039

For comparative purposes I have looked at the 1st Quarter of 2016 and 2017 and the conference is off to a strong start financially with total contributions up 19%. Breaking this down further:

2016 2017 Increase Percentage OCWM $35,905 $ 42,517 $ 6,612 18% National Ministries $ 9,222 $ 10,617 $ 1,395 15% Conference Missions $ 1,491 $ 2,297 $ 806 54% Total $46,618 $ 55,431 $ 8,813 19%

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1st Quarter comparison by association: Association 2016 2017 Change

Heart of Texas $12,898 $ 23,519 $10,621 Houston $11,993 $ 12,003 $ 10 New Orleans $ 1,531 $ 0 ($ 1,531) North Texas $20,196 $19,909 ($ 287) There are several important changes proposed in the Bylaws which affect the office of Treasurer and the handing of financial matters of the Conference:

1. The office of Treasurer has been defined more clearly as the tasks that the Treasurer oversees (See Article IV Section 11 D). This includes the ability to outsource some tasks and/or create a subcommittee to help plan, execute, and support duties of this office.

2. Audit requirements - The proposed bylaws allow flexibility in type of financial reviews that will be completed on an annual basis. An annual audit is prohibitively expensive for an annual review stream of less than $300,000 and, in fact, the Conference has not been in compliance with this requirement under the current bylaws for several years. Article IV Section 11 D in the proposed bylaws lays states that the Treasurer will ensure that annual financial review are conducted per financial policies.

3. Budget - In order to provide a greater accuracy of the budget forecast, the proposed bylaws changes how and when budgets are created and communicated (See Article IV Section 6). At Annual Meeting, instead of a Conference budget, the Conference would be presented a Statement of Faith and Mission for the succeeding year which provides priorities of the Conference. This will then guide the Board of Directors in creating the official Conference budget/spending plan which would be presented to the Conference in the third (3rd) quarter. The Board of Directors would then finalize, present, and communicate a finalized Conference budget/spending plan in the fourth (4th) quarter which would take effect at the beginning of the next fiscal year.

Respectfully Submitted,

Bobby Springfield Treasurer Board of Directors South Central Conference

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Heart of Texas Association MInister Annual Report

This past year, I have found my ministry to be expanded, as might be expected, in working with a larger number of churches and ministers after the former Brazos and South Texas Associations have largely completed the detailed work of joining together. I have had the joyous task of building new relationships with the former South Texas Association churches while continuing to work with the former Brazos Association churches. Much of my work is visiting with them, visiting with me ministers, being available and supportive as needed, hosting our Jam and Bread ministers’ gatherings, writing newsletter articles, working with Members in Discernment, and supporting our committee work. My profound thanks go to John Boydston, our now past moderator, for all of his hard work on drafting and revising the new Constitution and Bylaws, and to Janet Sherman, our current moderator, for all she is doing to support and uplift the work of the Heart of Texas Association.

Last summer, a major part of my work involved helping our churches register and send youth the the UCC National Youth Event in Orlando, Florida. We registered 62 youth and adults from this Association, and 58 made the trip. The Heart of Texas Association gives a real gift to our churches and youth by setting aside money for scholarships for all who go from our churches, funds which in recent years have been used to help with the substantial travel costs. I believe all who go grow in faith, community, commitment, and knowledge at these events, as well as having lots of fun. It is always plenty of work to support and help plan how to get our youth registered, with travel arrangements, distributing scholarships, and chaperoning. But it is some of the best work I do, and I deeply appreciate all who work so hard on this trip.

I also attended a Ministry Excellence and Support Authorization (MESA) conference this year in San Antonio to learn about the draft of the revised UCC Manual on Ministry, which guides the work of our Committee on Ministry that is so essential to our churches and ministers. My task has been to help others learn about the draft, and to provide feedback on it. In our Association’s case, we needed to provide strong feedback, as the draft proposed discontinuing licensed and commissioned ministry. Fortunately, our voices, along with many others in the UCC, are being heard on this matter, and we will be continuing our vital and lifegiving licensed ministry program, hopefully remaining in step with the practice across the UCC. Other parts of the revision are excellent and will be helpful in our work.

With great joy I helped lead the celebrations of the ordination of Beth Gleason and the consecration of Carl Schwartz-King. Beth was ordained on September 11 at Trinity Church of Austin, and I was honored to preach at the service. We held a consecration service at our fall meeting for Carl as the Association’ newest licensed minister.

We had both the sadness of a church discontinuing worship and a new church start this year. In February, Pastor Carlson Jakubik led the closing worship at St Paul, with Don Longbottom preaching. It was moving to be with them, and I honor Carlson for his faithful ministry. Open Cathedral in Leander began weekly services in January after an opening worship on Christmas

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Eve and several months of gathering meetings. It was a joy to be there with their pastor, Ryan Hart, and the new congregation as they began their first service in January.

I also have deep gratitude for the ministry of Glen Schoeneberg, Gerry Metzger, and Charles Stark as they retire and are retiring this year. It is a privilege to work with such fine servants. Charles will start as the interim minister at St John's in Burton soon, and I look forward to his ministry there.

In my personal life, I began serving on the Back Bay Mission board this year, as well as continuing to serve on the Reach Beyond Mission board. I still enjoy mission trips to Back Bay and to Alegría, El Salvador - work that uplifts my spirit. And I continue to give thanks for the ministry and work of the Heart of Texas Association.

Blessings in Christ, Liz Nash

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Houston Association Minister’s Report

Annual Meeting of the South Central Conference, 2016

Never tell God you are willing to sit at the feet of wisdom and learn. If prayers are sent up someway in that fashion, God will silent the heavens, and hear that prayer. The past 12 months has certainly been a learning experience.

The beginning lessons was coordinating the 2015 Annual Meeting in Houston, Texas. Rev. Vickie Sheil Hopper, Rene Thompson, and Pam Mayo, formed a great committee for a wonderful meeting. The National President Rev. Dr. John Dorhauer, and Designated Conference Minister, Rev. Dr. Don Longbottom were new to their positions, and what better place to introduce them to the South-Central Conference at the gathering of saints attending the Annual Conference meeting.

All churches in the Houston Association were visited to connect congregations and clergy of the Association with fellowship, support, encourage and enlighten each other regarding theological concepts, worship activities, and congregational visions. Clergy Cluster held typically during the day, extended opportunities for attendance to bi-vocational clergy with evening sessions. What a enrichment to work with the Executive Committee of the Houston Association, the Committee on Ministry and several related committees and congregations. As Houston Association Minister the position has provided frank conversations, tearful resolutions, and certainly the joys of new ministries. The joys of the year include the welcoming Rev. Vanessa Monroe to Bethel UCC, the installation of Mak Kneebone, at Plymouth Church, UCC and the permanent position of Rev Darnell Fennell at University Christian DOC. The Houston Association had an ecclesiastic council for one of our own, Stephen Loonam and rejoiced in his ordination at Grace UCC. A wonderful opportunity was provided to participate the ordination of Beth Gleason, in Austin, Texas expand friendships and association within the Conference.

This year following the communication activities of this Association, social media has been utilized to show the activities of the churches and clergy. The web presence exposures the wonderful ways that we worship and work to further God’s kingdom here on earth. This allows each of us to support to congregations as we celebrate accomplishments.

Ecumenical events were enriching to the Association. Rev. David Mason assured the United Church of Christ had a voice with the new Mayor, Sylvester Turner of Houston and the new police chief. The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, included the participation of Rev. Daniel Haas and Rev. Dr. Don Longbottom with a wide number of denominations represented in the wider Houston area. Many Association clergy participated, and some were instrumental on the planning committee.

The United Campus Ministry at University of Houston has grown and increased activities with area denominations, while assisting students in their spiritual growth. A recent appointment is made new leadership in this organization, and excitement is increasing on the campus of U of H. The conversations regarding relationships, news, information, faith positions, ethical interests and social justice issues are

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being addressed for the benefit of the students. The expansion of these cultural relationship also appears to be beneficial the community surrounding the campus. Understanding the impact of faith on all our lives always strengthens humanity.

The Houston Association believes in working in the community and worked at the Houston Food Bank twice this year. In addition, the churches of the Houston Association provided gift cards for each family at Settegast Heights for Thanksgiving, and made sure over 300 children and in the housing complex had Christmas gifts. The Houston Association owns and operates two HUD Affordable Housing Units and supports the residents with a number of programs and projects to provide safe housing and economic mobility.

Other areas of growth and participation include, African Americans Women in Ministry, Houston Association Women’s Retreat, SCC Clergy Retreat, Back Bay Mission Board of Directors, CHISM Annual Meeting, Southern Women’s Retreat, coordinator, National Credential Committee, and MESA, provided networking, growth, and exposure to benefit the South- Central Conference, Houston Association, and certainly was an enrichment to me personally.

The Word of God that presently excites my soul…“From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked” (Luke12:48, NIV). Learning God’s way.

Rev. Jasmine Coleman Quinerly

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NEW ORLEANS ASSOCIATION

OF

SOUTH CENTRAL CONFERENCE

The Louisiana/Mississippi Association consist of churches in the New Orleans, Metairie, River Ridge, New Iberia communities and Back Bay Mission in Biloxi Rev. Paul Pic, former pastor of First Trinity Church was called home to be with God in February. We continue to hold his wife and family in our prayers. The Committee on Ministry continues to meet every two months. Rev. Pic was the chair of the committee at the time of his death, so the committee will be selecting a chair to be approved by the membership at the Fall meeting. The committee has reviewed and approved the educational direction for Pastor Brenda Square (Beecher Memorial UCC) toward ordination. We continue to have 5 churches participating in the UCC iniative started in 2010 known as “Moving from Surviving to Thriving”. Rev. Bill McKinney is our advisor .The churches participating are Little Farms , Beecher Memorial, Central St Matthew , St. Paul’s , and Good Shepherd. Our participating partners is First Christian Disciple of Christ Church. One of our churches, First Trinity, is without a pastor and a meeting location. The other churches continue to serve God and their communities thru various activities and venues. Our Spring meeting was held on, Saturday, April 1, hosted by Central St. Matthew. Our Fall Meeting will be held at St. Paul, date to be announced. At the Fall meeting, we will elect new officers of the association for a two year period. Continue to keep New Orleans association churches and members in your prayers as we continue to keep our conference sister churches and members in our prayers. Submitted by Debra Joseph, Moderator

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North Texas Association Report

It has been a joy to serve as Association Minister of the North Texas Association in this, my first full year. I am grateful for the hospitality that has been extended as I have visited, preached and counseled with churches and ministers across North Texas - from the far west of Friona and Lubbock to the “not quite so far east” of Longview, and from the DFW area to the area surrounding Waco. North Texas includes churches with a diversity of traditions and worship styles but they all share a heart for the worship and service of God. We thank God for the gift of new clergy who are serving among us or who are serving in a new capacity. Rev. Joe Schulte was called and has begun service as Pastor of Union Congregational UCC in Friona. Rev. Schulte joins us from the Evansville Tri-State Association of the Indiana-Kentucky Conference. Pastor Josh Jordan has been called as Pastor of Zion United Church at Womack and has been granted standing by the NTA Committee on Ministry as a Licensed Minister. The NTA Committee on Ministry celebrated the ordination and installation of Rev. Eve Gorrell in February of 2017. Rev. Gorrell serves as Assistant Minister for Young Adults at New Church - Chiesa Nuova in Dallas. Rev. Dr. Alberto Magaña has been called as Senior Pastor of Promise UCC in Dallas and was installed by the Committee on Ministry in May of 2017. We look forward to sharing in the ministry of these gifted pastors and congregations throughout the coming years. We also remember with gratitude those pastors who have followed their calling to other places. Rev. Jon Haack accepted a call to serve as Senior Pastor of Peace United Church of Christ in Elkader, Iowa. Jon had previously served as Senior Pastor at Promise UCC in Dallas. Rev. Christine Ng has moved to New Mexico for health and family reasons. Rev. Ng, who had served as Senior Pastor of Central Congregational UCC in Dallas, remains a member of Central, maintains her standing in the North Texas Association, and continues to serve as Chair of the NTA Committee on Ministry. Rev. Steve Davis, who had been granted Privilege of Call by the North Texas Association, accepted a call to serve Plymouth Church UCC in Seattle, Washington as Minister of Administration and Church Operations. Rev. Davis had most recently served as Supply Pastor for The Gathering in San Angelo, Texas. Commissioned Minister Cheryl Von Ehrenkrook and her husband have moved to Rhode Island. Cheryl was commissioned to conduct Boundary Training and ONA Training within the South Central Conference. We are pleased that she has agreed to come back to Dallas and teach Boundary Training for the Conference Annual Meeting. Rev. Dr. Ken Crawford, who had been serving St. Paul’s Evangelical & Reformed UCC in Dallas as interim pastor, accepted a call and has begun service as Senior Pastor of Central Christian Church (DOC) in Dallas, Texas. We wish these pastors God speed in their new homes and endeavors. We were saddened by the unexpected loss of Rev. Robert (Bobby) Kates in January of 2017. Bobby had been ordained in October 2016 and served as Volunteer Associate Minister of People with Disabilities at Cathedral of Hope UCC in Dallas. He was a gifted

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pastor with a gentle and humorous spirit and we hold his memory dear as we release him to God’s mercy. Two NTA churches celebrated milestones this year. Promise UCC in Dallas celebrated its twentieth anniversary in a service on May 21, 2017. St. John UCC in Otto, Texas celebrated its 130th anniversary in a service on October 16, 2017. It was a great pleasure to bring a celebratory message to this congregation, which is served by Rev. Larry Felice. The North Texas Association held its Spring Meeting on March 18, 2017, hosted by St. Paul’s UCC in Gerald, Texas, which is served by Pastor Jeff Richter. The Association elected new officers, including Dee Shuttlesworth, a member of New Church - Chiesa Nuova in Dallas, as President, and Rev. Ray Jordan, Senior Pastor (Bridge) of Central Congregational UCC in Dallas, as Vice-President. Rev. Peter Nichols, serving as Interim Pastor at St. Paul’s Evangelical & Reformed UCC in Dallas, was elected to serve a second term as Secretary and Alice Miller, a member of St. John’s UCC in Robinson, was elected to serve another term as Treasurer. It is a blessing to continue to have gifted members and pastors to serve our Association. We very much appreciate the service of Rev. Scott Spence, Pastor and Teacher at St. John’s UCC in Robinson, for his service as President. Finally, we continue to celebrate the work of The Master’s Workshop Camp in Robinson. This camp serves predominately low-income children from the Waco area. But in addition to the summer camp season, the Master’s Workshop Camp is an excellent venue for family reunions, congregational meetings or similar get-togethers. The camp is under the able direction of camp director and site manager Donnell Smith. Check out the camp website at www.tmwcamp.com. Peace be with you, Rev. Steve Wilson Association Minister North Texas Association

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37

Huston-Tillotson University 900 Chicon Street Austin, Texas 78702-2795 Telephone: 512.505.3002 Facsimile: 512.505.3195

South Central Conference Annual Report

Huston-Tillotson University is a historically black university affiliated with the United Church of Christ and The United Methodist Church. Tillotson College dates to 1875 and builds upon the work of the Freedmen’s Aid Society of the American Missionary Association of the Congregational Churches (now United Church of Christ). Samuel Huston College dates to 1876 when a Methodist Minister leased St. Paul Methodist Episcopal Church of Dallas, Texas, as the site for a school for the African American youth of the city. In 1878, that school was moved to Austin, Texas. Trustees of Samuel Huston College and Tillotson College agreed to merge the two institutions on the site of Tillotson College on January 26, 1952. The institution moved to university status and changed its name to Huston-Tillotson University on February 28, 2005. HUSTON-TILLOTSON UNIVERSITY MISSION Huston-Tillotson University supports the South Central Conference through our mission to provide the University’s diverse student body with an exemplary education that is grounded in the liberal arts and sciences, balanced with professional development, and directed to public service and leadership through our mission of nurturing “a legacy of leadership and excellence in education, connecting knowledge, power, passion, and values.” HT transforms lives through a dynamic educational experience that values academic excellence and spiritual growth while cultivating democracy and community through outreach and engagement. HT leverages resources to enhance our competitive future in the areas of organizational effectiveness, funding, technology and industry partnerships. We achieve our mission through the diversity of our student body, opportunities for spiritual growth and civic engagement, and the global perspective of our educational programs. The core values of HT are represented by IDEAL: Integrity (we believe in honesty, sincerity, and responsibility), Diversity (we recognize and value the differences that enrich our educational environment), Excellence (we are committed to the highest standards of expectation and achievement), Accountability (we believe in taking responsibility for our actions and outcomes), Leadership (we set an example and provide an environment that cultivates tomorrow’s leaders). UNIVERSITY PROFILE Enrollment Huston-Tillotson University recorded 1012 students enrolling in the fall of 2016. Segmentation of our student population by gender reveals an important factor regarding male enrollment. Our overall student population consisted of 415 males (41.0%) and 597 females (59.0%). The first-year, first-time freshmen population consisted of 71 males (49.0%) and 74 females (51.0%). Segmentation of our student population by gender reveals an important factor regarding male enrollment. Many universities report fewer male student enrollments; our first-year, first-time freshmen population is continuing a nearly equally balanced population. The racial/ethnic composition of our student population is as follows: Black, non-Hispanic – 64.9%.; Hispanic –

38

25.4%; White, non-Hispanic – 5.2%; Nonresident Alien – 3.1%; Native American – 0.2%; Asian/Pacific Islander – 0.3%; Multiracial – 0.2%; Unreported – 0.7%. Faculty The fall of 2016, the University employed 52 full-time faculty members and 49 part-time faculty members. The race/ethnic composition of the faculty is as follows: Hispanic – 9.9%; White, non-Hispanic – 36.6%; Asian/Pacific Islander – 5.9%; Black, non-Hispanic – 41.6%; Two or more races, non-Hispanic – 1.0%, unknown – 5%. Forty-nine members of our full-time faculty, 74.3%, have a terminal degree in their teaching field. PRESIDENTIAL AND INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT ACTIVITIES

Built in 2015, the Sandra Joy Anderson Community Health and Wellness Center is the newest addition to HT’s campus. The Center is a partnership with HT, CommUnityCare (CUC) a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), Austin Travis County Integral Care (ATCIC), and the Dell Medical School at The University of Texas at Austin. In addition to providing care for HT students, faculty and staff, the center is dedicated to helping underserved residents of Austin gain access to health care and offers both medical and behavioral health care services in a primary care setting. The partners are working together to address the physical and mental health challenges of the Austin community and have built a team to produce new models of care, combined training programs, and research to address various needs in East Austin. A community engagement plan of action has been implemented for health/wellness programming. There is also community space available on evenings and weekends for meetings and programming.

Huston-Tillotson University takes pride in a number of accomplishments, including its leadership in sustainability efforts. Green is the New Black (GITNB) continues to participate in sustainability initiatives in the community as well as nationally and internationally. Huston-Tillotson University is the first private historically black institution in the nation to capture renewable energy from one-fourth of its campus buildings. Another effort is the solar powered electronic device charging station.

The HT student may be the first in his or her family to attend college, part of a legacy family with more than five generations of graduates, a local Austin resident, or a student who has traveled thousands of miles to reach the campus. That HT student was likely referred by alumni and had a number of college acceptance letters from which to choose. Internships or overseas travel are just two of the opportunities afforded students. Whether attending HT as part of the William Edward Burghardt DuBois Honors Program, Freshmen First Year Experience, as an athlete in one of the sports programs, or recruited as a musician for the jazz ensemble or vocalist with the concert choir, the HT experience is uniquely highlighted for success. Accountability, responsibility, spiritual development, service-learning and supportive relationships are the hallmarks of the HT experience.

ACADEMIC PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS Student Development The W.E.B. DuBois Honors Program experience is one that offers students both exceptional academic and extracurricular opportunities. These opportunities are designed for students (of all majors) who are intellectually curious, capable, and interested in making the most of their time at Huston-Tillotson University.

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W.E.B. DuBois Honors Program managed and participated in the Third Annual Diversity Hackathon on HT’s campus on March 11-12, 2017. The event's mission is to assist millennials of color in recognizing that they can be more than consumers of technology—they too can be creators, innovators, and disruptors of tomorrow’s technology. The Hackathon served as an information and social capital conduit connecting talent-seeking companies to 75 phenomenal Millennials of Color. The 14th Annual DuBois Lecture series is organized by Honors Program staff and students. The program brings outstanding and inspiring speakers to the HT campus. The Center for Academic Excellence (CAE) CAE was established in October 2010. The Center oversees general tutoring services, tracks and monitors the progress of students on Academic Probation as well as First Year Students. The Center implemented the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program in Fall 2011 which is a College Success Program designed to assist students as they transition to university life. The AVID curriculum is driven by WICOR (writing, inquiry, collaboration, organization and reading) strategies designed to help students meet the academic challenges they face. This seventh year of AVID implementation continues to improve academic performance among student participants and administrators hope to expand the program. The student’s academic progress is monitored using early alert software called Ram Radar. If a student is struggling with attendance, academic performance, or social emotional distress, an early alert is made on the student’s behalf. The Center for Academic Excellence staff receives the alert and notifies the student’s academic advisor, the PLC mentor, and other points of contact. Together, collectively we provide a community intervention support system during their first year experience at HT. Retention Services for Probationary Students: Pre-Probationary academic support services are also available for students at-risk for unsatisfactory academic progress. A team of advisors and counselors meet with students at a formal hearing to engage in an early intervention counseling session with the student. The students are informed of students services available on campus and in the community and are strongly encouraged to seek support. Our Retention Services Coordinator assigns all probationary students a Peer Learning Consultant/Mentor. They meet at the beginning of the semester to discuss challenges affecting students’ academic progress and strategies and resources that will help them overcome those challenges. Our probationary students continue to meet with their assigned Peer Learning Consultants for tutorials and co-curricular programming 1-2 times per week. At the meetings, the probationary students receive academic consultations (AVID learning strategy tutorial sessions) and peer support advising. First-Year Experience Program: During the fall semester, CAE students engage in critical self-reflection about how their educational experiences have affected their academic engagement and how they will be challenged to pursue their education with a stronger sense of purpose. Students learn about the psychology of success and how to effectively implement self-empowerment strategy for pursuing their passion, including: life management, critical literacy and reflection, AVID learning strategies, and more. In addition, our students also engage in a critical analysis of social and environmental justice issues affecting the structure of opportunity ultimately affecting community empowerment: gentrification, de-

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industrialization, intergenerational poverty, educational inequities, digital divide, policing, environmental degradation, health and wellness, and more. The following spring semester, our students connect theory to practice by proactively applying what they have learned about self and community empowerment in order to effectively serve the needs of our east Austin community. Our students work hand-in-hand with local residents, community service partners, and public officials to engage in asset based community empowerment projects: tutoring the youth, feeding the hungry, fixing computers, and planting trees. Each student is challenged to reflect on the meaning and purpose of the project in hopes that they realize their actions can improve the lives of others and, ultimately, their ability to control their own lives through self-empowerment. This transformative experience is documented in creative digital stories, recognized worldwide as an innovative and effective means of engaging problem-solving, critical thinking skills, and the understanding of complex ideas while empowering students to teach, learn and provide opportunities to effectively apply technology in the classroom in an increasingly digital age. The digital stories are shared with the community at the #Be_HT First Year Experience Summit. All First Year students receive an extensive comprehensive academic support network to guide them through their transition at Huston-Tillotson University. Upon admission confirmation, they are assigned to a capstone project learning community, an appreciative academic advisor, a Peer Learning Consultant Mentor, and an Early-Alert Intervention Support System. The capstone project learning community consists of a freshman seminar course with peers who have declared the same major, an instructor/coordinator who has experience in that field, a PLC Mentor who shares the same major, and a complimentary course (if schedule permits). The purpose of this structure is to cultivate the students’ interest in their declared majors and provide an educational environment in which new students can build strong supportive relationships with their peers and professionals who share a common interest and passion. Second-Year Experience Program: Students are counseled throughout the year to ensure academic progress. During Fall 2016, students on probation and warning signed Academic Success Contracts. They were assigned Peer Learning Consultants (PLCs) with whom to meet at least once a week to ensure they were moving forward in their classes. At midterm, grades were reviewed and there were Academic Hearings which involved faculty and staff as appropriate. The ACADEMY: The ACADEMY (Achievement in College Algebra During the Matriculation Year) is Huston-Tillotson’s Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP). The mission of the ACADEMY is to equip students with the conceptual understanding and computations proficiency for success in the foundational mathematics courses through a commitment to active learning strategies, innovative curriculum design, and enhanced student support services. The QEP was submitted and accepted by SACSCOC as part of HT’s accreditation report in Fall 2016. The Writers’ Studio: During the fall, the Writers’ Studio revised and improved our class presentations available instructors on request to facilitate their classes including our “Introduction to the Writers’ Studio”, “Avoiding Plagiarism”, “Guided Peer Review”, “Writing in Process”, and “Common Errors in the WS” presentations.

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Through collaboration with the English Department, and with additional support from the Student Government Association, the HT Writers’ Studio was able to continue the HT Visiting Writers Series. Last fall, we hosted Celeste Guzman Mendoza and Ire’ne Lara Silva on the HT campus for a Q&A session and a public reading. College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) The College of Arts and Sciences is the largest academic unit at HT. There are 43 full time professors, 36 adjuncts and three administrative assistants. CAS has 13 majors with minors, and a minor in religious studies. Additionally, the only master’s program is in CAS, Master’s in Educational Leadership. CAS is divided into seven departments. CAS faculty members are professionals who are well-known in their field. Many have published during this period, have attended seminars/workshops and some have presented. Some have written major grants supporting their programs. Students are provided excellent education as is evident by the student-centered activities, their exposure to professionals at conferences and workshops, their participation in research activities and internships. NASA is back – Huston-Tillotson Space Science Day. NASA returned to campus bringing local area middle school students to HT to work with HT students and NASA scientists on some of the TEKS required by the state of Texas. Students in Dr. Oldmixon’s English 4340 Editing the Magazine course are producing the Spring 2017 issue of the HT literary magazine 900 Chicon through hands-on learning.

Dr. Murphy continues to coordinate the committee for the research symposium. Additionally, the mentoring relationship between the UT Black Graduate Students Association and HT Psychology majors continues to flourish.

To apply the training students receive, the communication program produces radio programs for broadcast on HBCURadionet.com, Sirius XM Channel 142. HT’s Page One Satellite News Magazine, a 30-minute talk program, was launched on February 2, 2017. The program repeats on Tuesday at noon and Friday at 3:30 pm. Huston-Tillotson University is the 14th HBCU to be added to the HBCU Radio Network.

Two students in Professor Stewart’s English classes during the fall had presentation proposals accepted to present at international conferences. Remy Galan will present “A Debate of Science: In a Literary Context,” his theory about whether language is a science, at the Pop Culture/American Culture Conference. Shannon Breeding was accepted to present with three English faculty members on a panel entitled “Cultivation of a Research Culture that Challenges Hegemony at an HBCU” at the Conference on College Composition and Communication.

Under the leadership of Dr. Hudson and Prof. Stewart, nine students submitted presentation proposals in December 2016 for Texas A&M San Antonio’s graduate/undergraduate conference, Intersections: Identity and Ideology. All presented in February 2017 on work they did in Dr. Hudson’s African and African American Literature and Professor Stewart’s Advanced Composition classes during the fall.

Faculty Research and Development Activities:

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Dr. Seiter co-authored and received a grant UT Department of STEM Education to increase the number of candidates certified to teach Computer Science

Dr. Seiter was selected as vice-chair for the Central Texas Consortium for Educator Preparation (with the E3 Alliance) focusing on the Texas legislative agenda as it relates to schools, higher education and teacher preparation

Professor Stewart attended the UNCF/Mellon Programs Conference where she discussed her summer 2016 teaching and learning institute, “Centering Students in the First Year Composition Classroom: Engagement, Improvement, and Pedagogical Practices” in a roundtable entitled #ourpresencematters in the teaching and learning space.

Dr. Oldmixon participated in the 2017 NYU FRN Winter Seminar, “Uprooted and Displaced: Refugees, (Im)migrants and Exiles in World Literature,” at the American College of Greece, Athens, Greece, January 2017.

The Biology Program is offering a new elective for upper level students - Molecular Bioinformatics. This course was developed by Dr. Amanda Masino of HT and Dr. Harold Zakon of The University of Texas at Austin as part of an ongoing research training collaboration. The Bioinformatics field blends Biology and Computer Science, providing students with practical experience in modern biology research. Students who successfully complete the course will be invited to apply for an NSF-funded Research Experience for Undergraduates summer internship coordinated by Drs. Masino and Zakon.

HT is partnered university with Faculty Resource Network at New York University. Dr. Martin attended FRN 2016 National symposium and was on a panel with colleagues from Clark Atlanta. The presentation was called “Successful Teaching and Engagement Using Technology” and Dr. Martin’s presentation was on Reducing Fear. As a result of her participation at that symposium, Dr. Martin and her co-panelists were able to submit an article to be published by FRN.

Faculty Publication Activities: Professor Stewart and Dr. Stone’s “HBCUs and Writing Programs: Critical Hip Hop Language Pedagogy and First-Year Student Success” was published in Composition Studies in November 2016.

Professor Stewart and Dr. Stone were invited to include an interchapter entitled “Centering Students in the First Year Composition Classroom: Engagement, Improvement, and Pedagogical Practices” based on their UNCF/Mellon 2016 Summer Faculty Institute in the edited collection Perspectives on Blackness in Writing Program Administration: From Margin to Center for the CCCC Studies in Writing and Rhetoric series (awaiting editor of book series approval of edited collection).

Professor Stewart submitted “First-year Composition and Critical Hip Hop Rhetoric Pedagogy: A Verbal Data Analysis of Students Perceptions about Writing” for submission in the edited collection “College Writing”: From the 1966 Dartmouth Seminar to Tomorrow (under review).

Dr. Oldmixon published “Ghazal for the Shortest Month” in the Art of Peace Anthology (Inspirity 2016) and, with six other women poets, “Oil Field Girls, after Jerry Bywaters, a sonnet crown in the AIPF 2016 program.

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Dr. Oldmixon, who serves as a senior poetry on the masthead of the art and literature journal Tupelo Quarterly, worked on TQ’s 11th issue, published in December 2016.

Community Involvement Each year, students participate in the traditional AusPrEP and Pre-Algebra Institute summer programs. Along with rigorous instruction in the core subjects, students are exposed to a variety of career fields in science and technology through career awareness sessions and field trips. AusPrEP is a summer pre-freshman engineering program designed to encourage interest in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Using calculators that work like mini computers and programming robots to follow commands, middle and high school students get hands-on experience. Students engage in courses such as Logic, Algebraic Expressions, Physics, Engineering, and Computer Science in an effort to cultivate their interests in science and math. The HT Center for STEM Success has established memorandums of understanding with Austin, Pflugerville, and Round Rock Independent School Districts that allow students who successfully complete AusPrEP to receive a science elective credit on their transcripts. The Dumpster Project The Dumpster Project is a thought-provoking and environmentally healthy home inside a 33 sq. ft. used trash dumpster. The dumpster-to-home challenge inspires sustainable solutions that draw from science, technology, engineering, design, and the arts. HT’s Dumpster Project Hosted Two Boy Scouts Troops for Camping Experiences in December and January. Scouts from the Venture Crew (December 2016) and Troop 30 (January 2017) camped on the HT grounds surrounding the Dumpster and GITNB garden for a few chilly nights. The scouts went through a Dumpster 101 orientation, then completed science enrichment activities building solar racers or engaging in a human-centered design process for home planning, and completed service projects on campus preparing garden beds for spring planting. School of Business and Technology (SBT) With support services provided by the faculty and staff, a total of sixty-three SBT students are poised to graduate in May 2017 (30 from the traditional program and 33 from the Adult Degree Program (ADP). Bentley University in Boston, Massachusetts, has offered two SBT May 2017 graduates full tuition and fees to attend its Masters in Accountancy program. Five students are poised to study summer 2017 at Heilongjiang University in Harbin, China. Two of the students have been awarded full cost of the program through the Gilman Study Abroad scholarship. Two others have been awarded scholarships from private donors. SBT Scholarship Luncheon: The inaugural luncheon was held on November 11, 2016. Students had the opportunity to thank the donors who helped to partially fund their education. Also, SBT faculty, staff and students had the opportunity to network with alumni and local business executives. Adult Degree Program (ADP)

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The number of students enrolled in the ADP continues to increase: 268 students were actively enrolled as of Fall 2016 and 316 students are enrolled as of Spring 2017. Work is underway to start a fully online Associates program in Fall 2017. Student Services Religious Life and Campus Ministry (RLCM) RLCM fellowship is a time for students to come to the Center for Religious Life to play games, share food and good conversation. In October of 2016, Religious Life and Campus Ministries hosted its Annual Civility Week on the campus. Civility Week is a week full of events that are centered on spreading kindness, love, and civility around the campus. The week began with an act of kindness; RLCM offered Free Fades and Braids. During this time, students who either cut hair or braid hair on campus offered their services free of charge for that one evening. Another program entitled “Turn up, Fly Right” allowed students to discuss various scenarios and the most appropriate way of addressing the issues, with the discussion centering on what it means to be civil and how to remain civil in difficult situations. The week concluded with a Faculty and Staff Appreciation Luncheon at the Center for Religious Life catered by RLCM Student Staff. The Worship through Arts Ministry had its first collaboration with all of the ministries (gospel choir, praise dancers and mime ministry) all performing together. The entire service was worship through the performing arts.

In November, we had two guest speakers for chapel: Rev. Marcus Jones returned to share in chapel and the Rev. Dr. Theodore Wardlaw, President of Austin Presbyterian Seminary.

This year for the Thanksgiving Service, we featured an excerpt from the “Play Mount Up”, the story of a church group who survived hurricanes Katrina and Rita, landed in Marble Falls, Texas, and is now blessed with 54 acres of land and a vibrant life for all the parishioners. The full play was presented for Black History Month. In December, RLCM concluded the year with a special Christmas service embracing the lives of those lost among students, faculty and staff on campus.

RLCM, in conjunction with the Office of the President, sponsored 30 students involved with RLCM programming to attend the Trail of Lights at Zilker Park as a thank you for the service rendered throughout the semester.

The 2017 Spring Break Mission Trip traveled to Belize provided an opportunity to attend a worship service at Wesley United Methodist Church. The work/service was done in San Ignacio, Belize. We partnered with the Cornerstone Foundation, working with two different groups of children who did not have funds to provide lunch while at school. San Ignacio has murals throughout the city. The mural on the wall of St. Andrews Primary School had faded and was in need of repair. We were asked to take care of the repair or create a completely new design. Our group determined to come up with a new design, incorporating some of the elements of the old design. The end result left the San Ignacio community feeling proud. Students also attended the Iguana Project, a hike through the woods learning how to survive in the jungle.

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Campus Life The main objective of Residence Life is to provide an educational and living environment that will encourage academic, cultural and social development. Students are encouraged to meet new people, share personal experiences and get involved in the residential community and on campus. Hall meetings are held 3 times per semester with floor meetings monthly and as necessary. Floor meetings provide connection on a personal level. Activities included: "Rug-rats" (making small rugs out of old t-shirts), Super Bowl Party, Ice Scream Social, several game nights including Monopoly and Taboo. Uno became the semester's game of competition. A Registration Drive will be conducted in April to ensure students are registered before they leave for the summer. Programming also includes health and safety checks and a financial aid drive. Campus Life Highlights – Fall 2016 A constitution review was conducted to review the constitution and bylaws of both umbrella organizations, SGA and NPHC, to better facilitate student growth and development. The Student Leadership Academy is a new concept being developed to ensure student leaders receive professional development to effectively lead the campus. Student Affairs in conjunction with the Royal Court showcased a beautiful coronation full of pageantry as we installed Mister and Miss Huston-Tillotson University for the 2016-2017 academic year. The platform for Mr. HT is Mentoring Young Men and was profiled in a KUT story telling the story of Mr. HT and his mentee. The platform for Miss HT is Cancer Awareness and Wellness. Miss HT, Carshandra Hollins, received a grant from the Susan Komen Foundation that will provide additional support for her platform throughout the year. Campus Life Highlights – Spring 2017 Ram Appreciation Night – students attended the Men’s and Women’s Basketball games is geared toward increasing school spirit. The Student Interest Open Forum utilized student interest to help plan for the following year and inspire ownership of the school. Student Organization Update – Chess Club was added to the list of Recognized Student Organizations. Members meet weekly in the Davage-Durden Student Union to play and teach the fundamentals of chess. Green Is the New Black (GITNB) HT Faculty Partnered with the National Park Conservation Association (NPCA) to create a student learning experience at LBJ National Historic Site. HT students, faculty, and staff from the Natural Science Department and the student organization, Green is the New Black, traveled to the LBJ Historic Site in Johnson City, Texas, and met with NPCA staff, park rangers, and HT alumnus and former National Park Service Director Robert Stanton. Dr. Stanton was the first African American head of the NPS. After touring the park, students participated in a workshop on Civic Voice.

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Green is the New Black Students continue their Green Education Campaign at Blackshear Elementary Fine Arts Academy. For nearly three years, students from GITNB have volunteered Friday afternoons at Blackshear Elementary Fine Arts Academy. The GITNB students, along with Blackshear teacher Kasey Kirk and GITNB advisors Amanda Masino and Karen Magid, lead a group of K-5th grade students in environmental learning. The students learn practical lessons in how to plant, care for, and harvest vegetables, how to recycle and compost, how to deal with insects, etc. while also learning about natural cycles, science, energy, and water. This year, one of the lessons involved painting pumpkins to provide the students an alternative to carving which allows the pumpkins to be washed, peeled, and used to bake pies after Halloween. Earth Day 2017 – host on HT campus April 22, 2017 About 10,000 participants are expected which will give significant exposure to HT. Several campus departments are involved in planning. Students will be involved through interning with the Earth Day Austin organization to help plan the event, running a variety of booths and other activities during the event, serving as day-of-event volunteers, and collaborating with other participating groups such as Blackshear Elementary. Counseling and Consultation Center (CCC) The Counseling and Consultation Center continues to assist the Division of Student Affairs meet its mission by helping students with their personal concerns so that they can meet the daily challenges of student life. The center has moved into the Sandra Joy Anderson Community Health and Wellness Center. The Vision of the CCC is to provide quality support services for all our students to thrive and succeed at their educational goals. Our services are evidence-based interventions designed to remove societal stigmas and barriers to those seeking assistance. We seek to create a level playing ground that fosters academic success, leadership and total well-being for all students. The CCC provides individual counseling: groups such as our Sister Connection, couples counseling, crisis intervention, resources and referrals. In an effort to raise the awareness of the need to not only seek mental health services when needed, the counseling center individually and in collaboration with University of Texas, St. Edward’s University and other community stakeholders, provides workshops to inform professors, staff and students on mental illness as well as mental health wellness. Throughout the year, CCC offers campus wide screenings for depression, eating disorders, and alcohol. Classroom presentations are also provided to raise our students’ awareness on maintaining their physical and mental health. Each month, the CCC offers workshops on issues relative to our students needs including: how to succeed, substance-use, depression, stress, and healthy relationships. In addition to workshops, each year the CCC hosts important trainings that not only raise awareness but provide valuable skills. One such workshop is the nationally acclaimed Mental Health First Aid (MHFA). This is an eight-hour training to teach individuals some basic information on mental illness as well as how to identify when someone needs assistance. Attendees become familiar with asking difficult questions and who might be the best resource to assist when someone is in crisis. MHFA is offered to all faculty and staff members to provide them with the necessary tools to better assist our students. The Office of Disability Services (ODS), located within the CCC, provides services and support to ensure that students are able to access and participate in opportunities available at Huston-Tillotson

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University. ODS collaborates with HT departments and community organizations to assist students with developing academically, vocationally and personally. ODS also assists faculty, staff and visitors with accommodations requests to help ensure equal access and opportunity. ODS provides accommodations, academic adjustments and/or auxiliary aids and services to Huston-Tillotson University students who have temporary or permanent health impairments, physical limitations, psychological disorders, or learning disabilities. ODS serves as a resource for the university community and serves as liaison between students and faculty, as well as community agencies. Career and Graduate Development Center (C&GDC) The Career and Graduate Development Center (C&GDC), provides comprehensive lifelong career development assistance to present and former students regarding self-assessment, career exploration and decision-making which lead to success in part-time jobs, internships, higher education and/or full-time career employment. Activities include:

• Fall 2016 Career Expo & Spring Internship Fair on September 14th attended by 60 recruiting organizations; a 25% increase from last year.

• Fall 2016 Graduate and Professional School Fair October 12th; an increase of over 50% from last year.

• Continue to provide over 1,000 nationwide employment opportunities to students and alumni in the HT Career Management System (CMS).

• Continue to provide students with information on nationwide 2017 summer/fall internship opportunities each week.

• Spring 2017 Career Expo & Summer Internship Fair scheduled for March 29, 2017

Alternative Teacher Certification Dr. Seiter developed two courses for the Adult Degree Program’s education curriculum and teaches in that program. He continues to be active in the Central Texas Council on Educator Preparation and with the E3 Alliance. These organizations work closely with university teacher preparation programs and school districts to stay current on national and state education trends, laws and policies, and to act as a united voice for accountability and rigor in preparing teachers for Texas classrooms. Student Health Services The HT Health Connection e-health community empowerment program continues to collaborate with other community based organizations to empower our campus and underserved populations in our community with health information from the National Library of Medicine. The program objective is to provide participants with the basic background knowledge and information about racial disparities in health. Participants are trained to conduct informational sessions that enhance consumer awareness. Consumers are informed about the following through online health access: HIV/AIDS, Heart Disease, Cancer, Mental Health and Diabetes. Informed consumers will benefit by having a better quality of life. Athletics

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The HT Athletic Department has made and/or maintained significant advancements since the beginning of the 2016-2017 academic school year. The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) continues to run successfully. SAAC continues to enhance the support for the HT Athletic Department both on and off campus and to give back to the surrounding community by volunteering for a variety of community service projects. HT Volleyball advanced to the Red River Athletic Conference Tournament for the 2nd year in a row. On December 6th, the AVCA (American Volleyball Coaches Association) announced the 2016 NAIA All-American Awards. Laycia Robinson received All-American Honorable Mention and All-Region Honorable Mention. After graduation, Laycia intends to play professionally and then pursue a career as an Elementary School Teacher. The cheerleading team has been very visible. The team has put in much time and effort in rehearsals and it shows on the floor! The assistance and support of the Sports Medicine Trainer and the Strength and Conditioning Coach is evident as the team has been able to add higher level routines to their performances. Huston-Tillotson University Athletics continues to meet its mission by providing opportunities for competition in intercollegiate athletics while ensuring an atmosphere that emphasizes academic and athletic excellence. The department continues to strive to ensure that all of our student-athletes are “Champions of Character” and model the values of Respect, Responsibility, Integrity, Sportsmanship, and Servant Leadership. The Athletic Department is committed to the principle that participation in athletics is integral to the total educational process as well as to the personal growth of each student-athlete. HT is a member of the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) and the Red River Athletic Conference (RRAC). Huston-Tillotson University is proud of its United Church of Christ heritage and affiliation and continually strives to provide a wholesome and open learning environment that encourages recognition of individual worth and merit Submitted by Colette Pierce Burnette, Ed.D President and CEO Huston-Tillotson University Email: cpburnette@htu.edu

2016 Statistical Profile Produced by the Center for Analytics, Research and Data

SOUTH CENTRAL CONFERENCE STATISTICAL PROFILE (2016)

MEMBERSHIP AND PARTICIPATION Congregations: 72* Proposed Congregations: 3 Members: 10,208 Average Membership: 142 Average Worship Attendance: 78 Average Confirmations: 8 Average Confessions: 4 Average Transfers In: 5 Average Reaffirmations: 5 Average Deaths: 4 Average Transfers Out: 4 Average Child Baptisms: 2 Average Adult Baptisms: 3 Christian Education/Faith Formation Program: 79.2% Youth Program: 26.4% Open and Affirming: 37.5% Accessible: 87.5% Web URL/Web Presence: 68.1%

RACE/ETHNICITY BY CONGREGATION White/Euro-American: 62.5% African-American: 15.3% Asian/Pacific Islander: 5.6% Hispanic/Latino: 0% Native American: 0% Bi-Racial/Multi-Racial and Other: 16.7%

* ACTIVE SCHEDULE 0 CHURCHES. THE NUMBER OF CONGREGATIONS INCREASES IF SCHEDULE 1 AND 2 CONGREGATIONS ARE INCLUDED.

LOCAL CHURCH STEWARDSHIP AND FINANCES Average Basic Support - % Participating Churches: $4,027/65.3% Average Special Support (Conference): $1,415 Average Special Support (National): $3,694 Average Total OCWM: $6,694 Average One Great Hour of Sharing - % Participating Churches: $511/ 58.3% Average Neighbors in Need - % Participating Churches: $371/ 48.6% Average Christmas Fund - % Participating Churches: $300/ 41.7% Average Strengthen the Church - % Participating Churches: $313/45.8% 5 for 5 Churches: 26.4% Average Other Gifts: $12,688 Average Operating Expenses: $153,557 Average Total Income: $234,691

AUTHORIZED MINISTERS Ordained: 165 Licensed: 19 Commissioned: 4 Ordained Ministerial Partner Standing: 1 Dual Standing: 5 Active (Non-Retired): 137 Retired/Pastor Emeritus: 57 Number in Local Church Positions: 66** Number in Other Positions: 81** Number of Unclassified/Leave of Absence: 18** Average Age (Active, Non-Retired Authorized Ministers): 58 Gender (Active, Non-Retired Authorized Ministers): F=39.2%, M=55.6%

Unknown=5.2%

** ONLY ORDAINED MINISTERS WERE INCLUDED IN THE NUMBER IN LOCAL CHURCH POSITIONS, OTHER POSITIONS AND THE NUMBER OF UNCLASSIFIED AND/OR ON LEAVE OF ABSENCE.

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2016 Statistical Profile Produced by the Center for Analytics, Research and Data

8 3

4

3

5

3

5

4

0

5

10

15

20

25

CONFERENCE UCC

Average Additions

Reaffirmations of Faith

Transfers

Confessions of Faith

Confirmations

4 4

4 3

0

2

4

6

8

10

CONFERENCE UCC

Average Removals

Transfers Out

Deaths

21.1%

22.8%

27.6%

19.2%

5.6%

2.7% 1.0%

UCC

30.6%

26.4%

19.4%

20.8%

1.4% 1.4%

CONFERENCE

1-50 51-100101-200 201-400401-600 601-1,0001,001 & over

PERCENT OF CONGREGATIONS BY SIZE

MEMBERSHIP ADDITIONS AND REMOVALS

In general, the South Central Conference contains a slightly greater percentage of smaller to mid-sized congregations than the UCC as a whole. 76.4% of all churches in the Conference have between 1 and 200 members; in comparison, 71.5% of all UCC churches have 1-200 members. On average, the Conference exceeds the UCC in reaffirmations of faith, transfers in, confessions of faith, and confirmations.

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2016 Statistical Profile Produced by the Center for Analytics, Research and Data

LOCAL CHURCH OFFERINGS PARTICIPATON

TOTAL MISSION SUPPORT

65.3%

58.3%

48.6%

41.7%

45.8%

75.8%

65.8%

56.7%

51.5%

42.4%

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

Basic

One Great Hour of Sharing

Neighbors in Need

Christmas Fund

Strengthen the Church UCC

CONFERENCE

$- $200,000 $400,000 $600,000

20

06

20

11

20

16

Other Gifts

Special Support

Conference BasicSupport

National BasicSupport

Over the last decade, the churches in the South Central Conference increased both their Other Gifts and Conference Basic Support (by 47.5% and 25.4%, respectively). In that same time period, Special Support decreased by 6.4% and National Basic Support decreased by 46.8%.

The South Central Conference exceeds the UCC as a whole in the percentage of churches that give to Strengthen the Church (45.8% compared to 42.4%). In terms of Basic Support and the other Special Offerings, smaller percentages of congregations give to these areas than the UCC as a whole.

51

2016 Statistical Profile Produced by the Center for Analytics, Research and Data

137

57

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

180

200

Retired/PastorEmeritus

Active (Non-Retired)

165

19

4 15

100

110

120

130

140

150

160

170

180

190

200

Dual Standing

Ordained MinisterialPartner Standing

Commissioned

Licensed

Ordained

39.2%

55.6%

5.2% Female

Male

Unknown

AUTHORIZED MINISTERS

There are 194 Authorized Ministers in the South Central Conference. The great majority (85.0%) of these ministers are Ordained. Of all Authorized Ministers in the Conference, 29.4% have the status of Retired / Pastor Emeritus; and 70.6% are listed as Active. In terms of gender, 55.6% of Authorized Ministers in the Conference identify as male; 39.2% identify as female; and 5.2% are unknown.

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