Dove Awards use Allen Arena to make their big return to Music City

By Bridgette Begle and Cory Woodroof Allen Arena traded basketballs for golden trophies Tuesday night as the best and brightest of Christian music gathered to celebrate this year’s Dove Award winners. The 44th annual show made its home at Lipscomb after spending two years at Fox Theater in Atlanta. Industry legends Amy Grant and Kirk Franklin were the evening’s emcees. Gospel Music Association CEO Jackie Patillo thanked Lipscomb for their guidance in hosting the event in its return to Music City, a longtime home of the awards. “We are at the Allen Arena because of the vision of the leadership here,” Patillo said. “President Randy Lowry has opened his doors to us and his heart.” Dr. Lowry told the estimated crowd of 2,800 of the importance of having fellow believers join the campus to celebrate an art that ties directly in with faith. “We have about 200,000 visitors a year on this campus, but there are no visitors that are more important to us than those who share the Christian story with us,” Lowry said. “A lot goes on in higher education, and a lot of it is so far from the story we believe in. “But at Lipscomb University, we are going to be Christian intentionally, we are going to be Christian courageously and we are going to be Christian graciously.” Lowry noted that arena donors Jim and Linda Allen were in attendance of the evening’s events. “They had a vision 15 years ago and dedicated a tremendous proportion of their resources to build this – not knowing you specifically, but having you in mind. Hoping that in this...

President’s Convocation Ceremony welcomes the 2013 academic year

University president Dr. Randy Lowry ushered in the new academic year with the annual Convocation Ceremony in Allen Arena on Tuesday. The event opened with a note of welcome from Dr. Jim Thomas, Executive Assistant to the President. Following his greeting, Board of Trustees member Harriet Shivers began the academic procession by carrying in Lipscomb’s traditional Mace, the wood of which was taken from an old oak tree that once stood on David Lipscomb’s original farm. Succeeding the presentation of the Mace, the parade of flags honored 100 nations and states represented within Lipscomb University and Academy. The Nashville Highlanders marched down the aisle next, playing customary tunes on bagpipes and drums. After recognizing and honoring the Lipscomb Board of Trustees, the Senior Leadership Team, the Academic Leadership Team, the University Faculty, the Academy Faculty, and the 17th president of Lipscomb, Dr. Lowry, Dr. Candice McQueen, Dean of the College of Education, gave a 4 minute keynote speech. Those in attendance enjoyed a time of worship, as well as scriptural reading from Jeremiah 29:11-13 before Lowry’s address. During his address, Lowry mentioned some noteworthy plans and hopes for Lipscomb University’s future. Such plans include the expansion of the McFarland Math and Science Center, the renovation of the Swang Business Center and the construction of a new Well-Being Center across from the School of Nursing building and a new Performing Arts Center for the theater department. Lowry also stressed the importance of retaining a spirit of humility while still continuing to develop “boldness” and “confidence” going into the new school year. “May God help us this year as we walk forward...

Lumination Newscast, April 11, 2013

In this semester’s twelfth installment of Lumination News, Kage Sanderson and Joe Sanderson are behind the news desk to update you about what’s happening on campus.Brianna Langley brings you up to date with world news, and Ariel Jones gives the scoop on all things entertainment. Nicolette Carney updates you on the weather for this week and Kelly Dean lets you in on all the sports news this week. This week’s newscast features information about Scott Sanderson’s resignation as head coach of the men’s basketball team, a look at how the Lipscomb community is helping Dr. Jim Thomas after his home was consumed in a fire, insight into the 50th anniversary of Singarama, information about this year’s live SGA debate, a look into last week’s talent show and interviews with students about how much flex money they have left on their cards. We take a closer look at the dedication of the Bison Square Fountain, the new women’s Unspoken chapel, this year’s service day and how the way you dress can effect how you do in classes. This week’s newscast also features our weekly Nashville Spotlight and Tweets of the Week. Be sure to stay tuned for future newscasts published every Friday here on...

Lipscomb community steps up to help Dr. Jim Thomas and family after house fire

A typical morning in the office turned to be one of the most tragic days of Dr. Jim Thomas’s life. Dr. Thomas, President Lowry’s executive assistant and a Professor in the communications department, received a call saying his house was on fire. The cause of the fire is still unknown, but at the moment, the assumption is that it was caused by a lamp cord in the living room. Two hours later, the rest of the house was in flames. In response, the Lipscomb community gathered to give their time and money to help rebuild a home and restore joy back into the lives of Dr. and Mrs.Thomas. In moments like this, it is always a blessing to count with a family that cares and provides like the Lipscomb family. Remember to keep Dr. Thomas’ family in your prayers as they recover from this misfortune. Video by Jael Teme and Michael...