Milligan University: A Legacy of Notable Alumni
Introduction
Milligan University, a private Christian institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition, has a rich history of producing graduates who have made significant contributions across various fields. Founded in 1866, the university, formerly known as Milligan College until May 2020, has remained closely aligned with the Christian Churches/Churches of Christ, a capella churches of Christ, and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). This article explores some of the notable alumni who have emerged from Milligan University, leaving their mark on the world.
Academics and Ministry
Milligan University has fostered an environment that encourages both academic and spiritual growth. Several alumni have distinguished themselves in academia and ministry, reflecting the university's commitment to service and faith.
Paul Blowers, the Dean E. Walker Professor of Church History at Emmanuel Christian Seminary at Milligan, exemplifies this commitment. He teaches courses in church history and historical theology. Dr. Blowers is a former president of the North American Patristics Society and was a Henry Luce III Fellow in Theology.
Jeffrey Miller, the Vera Britton Chair of Bible and Professor of Bible, also stands out. He teaches foundational courses such as “God’s Story in the Old Testament” and “God’s Story in the New Testament.” Dr. Miller received a Lifetime Achievement Award from Christians for Biblical Equality in 2022.
Athletics
Milligan University's athletic program, known as the Buffaloes, has produced numerous outstanding athletes. These individuals have not only excelled in their respective sports but have also demonstrated leadership and sportsmanship.
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Megan Jastrab is a Milligan cyclist who brought home a bronze medal as part of USA Cycling.
The Milligan University Athletics Hall of Fame honors outstanding athletes, coaches, and significant participants in the athletics program. To qualify, the candidate must be an alumnus/a of Milligan University or have had a significant association with the Milligan University athletics program.
Buddy Bolding entered the Milligan College Hall of Fame.
Arts and Culture
Milligan University alumni have also made their mark in the arts and culture.
Peter Hastings Falk is listed in Who was Who in American Art, 1564-1975.
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Business and Leadership
Milligan University has produced numerous alumni who have excelled in the fields of business and leadership, demonstrating the university's commitment to developing servant-leaders.
Gary Mabrey serves as the CEO of the Chamber of Commerce for Johnson City, Jonesborough, and Washington County.
Joe Carr is an executive vice president at the Bank of Tennessee.
Jeff Clements works as a mechanical engineer at Eastman Chemical Company.
Kyle Colvett is a physician at Mountain States Health Alliance.
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Stephen and Trida LaHair are the owners of Chef’s Pizzeria and Southern Barbeque.
Ed Gibbons owns Watauga Insurance.
Rebecca Henderson is a consultant at Strategic Priorities Consulting.
Bill Lizzio owns Lizzio Development Company.
Tim Morganstern is a chiropractor at the Jonesborough Chiropractic Clinic.
Charles Nitschke is the retired director of business organization at Eastman.
Kathy Sanders owns Tri-Cities Center for Cosmetic Dentistry.
Public Service and Community Engagement
Many Milligan University alumni have dedicated their lives to public service and community engagement, embodying the university's mission to make a positive impact on the world.
David Davis served as a Congressman.
Eddie Abernathy, Jr., is the owner of Rogersville Vision Clinic.
Tracy Green serves as the wellness coordinator for the Town of Greeneville.
Bob Hall is the director of Family Promise of Greater Johnson City.
David Hicks is the president of the Tennessee College of Applied Technology in Elizabethton.
Scott Ledford serves as the Chief Operating Officer at Christian Medical and Dental Associations in Johnson City.
Matthew Albritton works with the Ministry for Widows at First Christian Church in Johnson City.
Emily Mark works with Families Free.
Jonathan Russell works with LXI.
Mary Ann Blessing is the director of Kingsway Charities.
Thurman Walters is a healthcare technician at James H. Quillen Veterans Administration Medical Center.
Milligan University Awards
Milligan University recognizes alumni achievements through several prestigious awards:
- The Milligan University Young Alumni Award honors outstanding alumni who have graduated within the past 5 to 10 years and have emerged as early leaders in their professional career, community service, and continued engagement with the values and mission of Milligan University.
- The Milligan University Professional Excellence Award exists to honor those alumni who have excelled in their chosen field and have brought distinction to Milligan University through his/her career.
- The George W. Hardin Spirit of Milligan Award is named after an alumnus who gave significant time, money and encouragement to the school, ensuring its continued existence.
- The Milligan University Athletics Hall of Fame exists to honor outstanding athletes, coaches and other significant participants in the athletics program of Milligan University.
A Christ-Centered University
As a church-related liberal arts university, Milligan remains closely aligned with the Christian Churches/Churches of Christ, a capella churches of Christ, and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). A campus ministry program and culture of service exist on campus.
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