Countdown to Fall 2013: A Last Minute Checklist for CBU Freshmen

Posted on June 12, 2013


Congratulations! You are on your way to college! Everyone here at CBU is working really hard to get things ready for you and your fellow classmates, and we are all looking forward to meeting you in person soon. To share our excitement and to help you get ready for CBU, we are starting a five-part feature we are calling Countdown to Fall 2013!

In Part 1 of the series, we help you make sure you are on track with the pesky but oh-so-important admissions process. We have talked to the very nice people in Admissions, Student Financial Assistance, Academic Services and Student Life and have put together a quick checklist to help you dot your “I”s and cross your “T”s! Please note that not all of these items might apply to you if you have already completed them. If that is the case, pat yourself on the back for being on top of your game!

Here we go:

  • Submit your enrollment deposit: you are not officially “IN” unless we have received your deposit.
  • Contact the Office of Student Financial Assistance if you still have questions about your financial assistance award.
  • Submit your final high school transcript and/or your dual enrollment transcript to:

Christian Brothers University
Office of Admissions
650 E. Parkway South
Box T-6
Memphis, TN 38104

  • Complete your housing form and roommate preference survey: trust us, you want to take this one VERY seriously.
  • Complete your health form.
  • Sign up for Freshman Orientation: you must attend because that’s when you will register for classes and learn everything you need to know to have an amazing first year at CBU.
  • Keep checking in with us and read all mail and email correspondence you receive from CBU! Don’t count on your mom or your friends to tell you what to do! This is YOUR thing, do it right!
  • Bring a friend: encourage your friends to take advantage of CBU’s flexible admissions process. It’s never too early or too late to apply!

As we have said to you all along this seemingly endless process of application, we are here for you and we will do our very best to help you out in any way we can. If you are confused about what you need to be doing or are unsure about any item on this list, just get in touch!

Next up in our Countdown to Fall 2013 Series: everything you need to know about Freshman Orientation!

Posted in Admissions, Student Life

CBU Names Doyle Associate VP for Student Life

Posted on June 12, 2013

Timothy M. Doyle, Ed.D. has been appointed as the Associate Vice President for Student Life at Christian Brothers University (CBU). Doyle will provide leadership for student and resident life, creating a holistic environment that will enhance students’ personal lives. He will work to integrate all programs that serve the needs students.

Doyle brings to CBU over 20 years of experience from five distinguished institutions in directing residence life, coordinating student activities, and managing enrollment and retention. Most recently, he worked as a student services consultant for the emerging, liberal arts-based institution of Medes American University Strategy Group in Iraqi Kurdistan’s capital of Erbil. While serving as a liaison to the Kurdish Ministry of Education for regulations, Doyle designed comprehensive strategies for enrollment and student services.

Prior to this, Doyle worked at the American University of Iraq, Sulaimani as Enrollment Management Director where he was responsible for the development and operation of all aspects of undergraduate and graduate services. In addition, he served as Vice President for Student Affairs at Oglethorpe University and held several positions in resident life at Emory University.

“Dr. Doyle will be a great addition to the CBU Student Life team. He is an experienced professional and leader, who puts a premium on blending student life with academics and athletics,” says Dr. Frank Buscher, Vice President for Academics. “His work in Iraq and at a residential liberal arts college in the United States has provided him with a unique perspective that will undoubtedly benefit CBU and its students. Dr. Doyle’s energy and vision will enable the University to take student life to the next level.”

Doyle earned a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Management from the University of Georgia, a Master of Arts in Medieval and Ancient History from Emory University and a Bachelor of Arts from Wabash College. He also holds a Certificate in International Higher Education from the University of Twente (Netherlands) and the University of Melbourne (Australia).

For more information about CBU’s Student Life, visit www.cbu.edu or call (901) 321-3531.

Posted in Admissions, Faculty & Staff, Press Releases, Student Life

Graves Appointed CBU Board Chairman

Posted on June 3, 2013

John Mitchell (Mitch) Graves has been named chairman of the board of trustees at Christian Brothers University. Graves has served on the Board since 2009 and was selected as the chairman at the April 30 meeting, succeeding Robert G. McEniry, who has served as chairman since 2010.

Graves is President and CEO of Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare’s Affiliated Services Division, a position that he assumed in 2005. This division includes a variety of home health companies and outpatient service centers. Currently, Graves is also serving as the interim CEO of Health Choice, a joint venture physician-hospital organization equally owned by MetroCare and Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare.

Before being elected Board Chairman, Graves served as chairman of the Audit and Finance committees. In addition, he has served on the Executive Committee for the past two years. Over the years, Graves has also served on the boards of Health Choice, Healthcare Financial Management Association, United Methodist Church Neighborhood Centers, Methodist Healthcare Credit Union, Revenue Assurance Professionals, and the University Club of Memphis. Furthermore, Graves served on the United States Attorney’s Healthcare Fraud Task Force, Memphis Alcohol Commission, and the Governor’s Tenncare Claim Committee.

A graduate of Christian Brothers University, Graves holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a concentration in finance and economics.
Excited about the future of CBU and the impact that it continues to have on the Memphis community, Graves said “As a graduate, I have always known that a CBU education is an extraordinary investment and I am well aware of the dividends that it pays in the workplace. At CBU, students and learning are the priority. As Board Chair, I hope to provide the leadership for CBU to continue to be independently rated one of the best Universities in the Southeast and in the nation while delivering the best private education value in the South.”

CBU President Dr. John Smarrelli Jr. is certain that under Graves’ leadership graduates will continue to praise their CBU education for the quality of their professors, the great career prospects it provides and the low levels of debt with which they graduate. “I look forward to working with Mitch in his new role on the Board. His leadership skills and business expertise along with his dedication to the University will enable CBU to continue building upon the strong foundation that has been established by past Chairs,” notes Smarrelli. “Under his tutelage I am confident that CBU will continue to meet the educational needs of today’s students.”

Posted in Press Releases

CBU Faculty Price and Allen Named Tennessee Outstanding Advisors

Posted on May 20, 2013

Dr. Randel M. Price, Chemical & Biochemical Engineering Chair, at Christian Brothers University (CBU) was awarded the Region III Outstanding Faculty Advisor for the state of Tennessee by the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA). Also honored by NACADA was Dr. James T. Allen, Assistant Professor, Management/Marketing/Economics, who received the Certificate of Merit of Faculty Academic Advising. The awards were presented at the Region III Conference recently held in Greenville, South Carolina.

Well respected by students and faculty, both Price and Allen extend their efforts beyond the classroom. These educators exemplify what it means to serve as a resource to students seeking to pursue their educational goals.  “As an academic advisor you have the opportunity to focus on the individual student and these interactions are often the most rewarding,” says Price. “When I consider the amazing job my CBU colleagues do at advising, it’s a bit intimidating to think that I’m the one receiving an award!”

As recipients of these NACADA awards, their commitment to higher education and the long-term success of CBU students is celebrated and serves as a testimony of their efforts. “Academic advising is possibly the most rewarding aspect of my job as it is typically the only time where one-on-one mentoring takes place,” states Allen  “Receiving this award from NACADA means a lot to me; it’s nice to know that people recognize the dedication I have toward guiding students through their college experience.”

NACADA, started in 1977, promotes and supports quality academic advising in institutions of higher education to enhance the educational development of students. It is comprised of 10,000 members representing all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Canada and several other international countries. Members represent higher education institutions across the spectrum of Carnegie classifications and include professional advisors/counselors, faculty, administrators and students whose responsibilities include academic advising.

To learn more about CBU, visit www.cbu.edu. For more information on National Academic Advising Association, visit http://www.nacada.ksu.edu.

Posted in Faculty & Staff, School of Business, School of Engineering, Uncategorized

PA Program at CBU Makes History

Posted on May 6, 2013


First White Coat Ceremony in Memphis

The Master of Physician Assistant Studies Program at Christian Brothers University (CBU) made history on May 4 in the University Theater when it coated its first cohort, marking a rite of passage for the students from didactic classroom and lab instruction to practical clinical training. Not only was this the inaugural PA White Coat Ceremony at CBU but it marks the first ever in Memphis.

In all 31 members of the Class of 2014 were proudly given the traditional student consultative White Coat made possible through the generous support of dedicated, anonymous donors.  “This was a monumental event for CBU and the Memphis community which was evidenced by the number of individuals who joined us for the event,” stated Dr. Mark Scott, Director of the Physician Assistant Studies Program. “The support of the program by physicians and individuals has been overwhelming and is reflective of the University’s impact on this community.  We embrace the phrase, ‘Enter to Learn.  Leave to Serve’, and are committed to the tenets of the PA profession and needs of our community.”

The White Coat Ceremony itself was started by Dr. Arnold P. Gold at Columbia University’s College of Physicians And Surgeons in 1993 and has since been adopted at many Health Professional Schools across the Nation. By having a ceremony where entering students are “cloaked” with their very first white lab coat, particular attention is called to the individual’s choice to become a Health Sciences Educator, Physician Assistant, or Physical Therapist, and of equal importance, bringing to focus the true meaning of that choice – that one must cure, but also care.

Physician Assistants are licensed to practice medicine, issue prescriptions, and practice in all medical fields including primary care, internal medicine and subspecialties, as well as surgical and emergency care. The PA’s scope of practice may also include education, research, and administrative services. To learn more about the Physician Assistant Studies program at CBU, visit www.cbu.edu/pas or call (901) 321-3388.

Posted in Academics, Events, Press Releases, School of Sciences, Student Life

CBU Gallery Celebrates Carroll Cloar With “Crossing Place”

Posted on May 3, 2013

The Beverly and Sam Ross Gallery at Christian Brothers University (CBU) is proud to be one of four local galleries and museums featuring the area-wide exhibit “Celebrating Carroll Cloar.” The exhibition of 26 drawings, “Crossing Place,” at the CBU Gallery begins May 31 and runs through July 26.

Much of Cloar’s art is inspired by his childhood memories of growing up in Arkansas. Often described as “magic realism,” the work of Cloar features images of churches, open fields, old schoolhouses and individuals that portray haunting motifs of American life. This exhibit will showcase Cloar’s use of flat color forms and ornate patterns that were instrumental in developing his signature style and gaining him national recognition. Through the use of various art forms and ominous patterning, Cloar’s work demonstrates magnificent range that tackles the strongest themes of human emotion timelessly.

Born in Earle, Arkansas, Cloar was raised on a farm before coming to Memphis to attend Southwestern University. He also studied at the Memphis Academy of Art and the Art Students League in New York. During this time, Cloar produced a series of lithographs based upon the landscape and community earning him the McDowell Traveling Fellowship. While on Fellowship, Cloar explored the west coast and Mexico. At the start of World War II, he joined the Army Air Corps. Post World War II, Cloar’s unique work depicting landscapes of Arkansas earned him the Guggenheim Fellowship, which he used to travel around Central and South America before permanently settling in Memphis. A renowned artist, Cloar’s work was chosen to be among six paintings by American artists commemorating President Bill Clinton’s inauguration. Although Cloar died in 1993, his work remains revered for the authenticity of its style and subject.

This exhibit is free and open to the public. Hours at the Beverly & Sam Ross Gallery are Monday-Thursday, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.; Friday, 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 1:00-5:00 p.m. Hours may vary due to university schedules. For more information, visit the website at www.cbu.edu/gallery or call (901) 321-3243.

Posted in Events, Exhibits, Press Releases

Methodist Hospice and Christian Brothers University Honor Our Veterans

Posted on May 1, 2013

WHO: Methodist Hospice and Christian Brothers University honor veterans

WHAT: Free community event
Reception and viewing of the documentary film Honor Flight

WHERE: Christian Brothers University
University Auditorium

WHEN: Thursday, May 16
Reception at 5:30 p.m.
Viewing at 6:30 p.m.

As Memorial Day approaches, join Methodist Hospice and Christian Brothers University for a free community event honoring our veterans Thursday, May 16 with a reception at 5:30 p.m. followed by a viewing at 6:30 p.m. of Honor Flight, a documentary about four living World War II veterans and a Midwest community coming together to give them the trip of a lifetime. Volunteers race against the clock to fly thousands of WWII veterans to Washington, D.C. to see the memorial constructed for them in 2004, nearly 60 years after their epic struggle.

Donations will be accepted to benefit the Methodist Hospice We Honor Vets program. As part of the We Honor Vets program, veterans at the Methodist Hospice are honored with special recognition consisting of a certificate thanking them for their service and a flag lapel pin.

Christian Brothers University (CBU) is a VA-Designated Yellow Ribbon University. This designation allows eligible veterans of the United States Armed Forces who qualifies for educational benefits under the Yellow Ribbon Program to apply for generous grants thereby, receiving an education from prestigious CBU without paying tuition or mandatory fees.
In addition, CBU is ranked among “Best for Vets: Business Schools 2013” by the Military Times. Out of the 100 schools responding to the first-ever national survey, CBU ranked 19 out of 62 selected by the Military Times for its master’s business programs that help veterans bridge their military skills to corporate America.

For additional information about this free community event, contact Dee Flood, community development manager for Methodist Hospice at 901.818.2105 or dee.flood@mlh.org. For more information on the programs and opportunities for Veterans at CBU, contact Anthony McClyde at 901.321.4455 or amcclyde@cbu.edu.

Posted in Adult Professional Studies, Events, Press Releases, Student Life

CBU Engineering Honor Society Inducts 7 New Members

Posted on April 30, 2013

Christian Brothers University’s (CBU) Alpha Delta Chapter of Epsilon Mu Eta, the Engineering Management Honor Society, recently inducted seven new members. Graduate Engineering students inducted were Robert L. Bell II, Manuel De Tuya, Rizgar A. Jan, and Robbie Webb. Also inducted were faculty members, Dr. Rita Engler (adjunct professor), Charles McCain (adjunct professor), and Gene McGinnis (Civil & Environmental Engineering, Chair).

Epsilon Mu Eta is a national honor society for engineering management. The Alpha Delta Chapter is open to students enrolled in the Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM) program at CBU and those members of Epsilon Mu Eta affiliated with CBU. To be elected to membership, students must show superior character which is defined by a student’s leadership, professionalism, integrity and other demonstrated principles that define the core values of the program and CBU. Faculty members are nominated for membership based on the length and evaluation of their engineering management teaching. These nominations are then reviewed and selected by the American Society of Engineering Management (ASEM).

The CBU Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM) bridges the gap between technology and business. It empowers practicing engineers, scientists and technicians with knowledge, skills and tools needed to lead their organization to success. In addition to regular classroom instruction, all courses for the MSEM degree are available online via the Distance Education Network (DEN) for students beyond the commuting distance to the CBU campus. Also offered at CBU is the Master of Engineering Management program and a number of industry recognized Certificates of Completion.

For more information about CBU’s Graduate Engineering programs, visit www.cbu.edu/gradengineering or call (901) 321-3283.

Photo Caption: (Above from left-right) Dr. Eric Welch (Dean of Engineering) with Rizgar A. Jan, Robert L. Bell II, Robbie Webb, Charles McCain, and Dr. Rita Engler at the Alpha Delta Chapter of Epsilon Mu Eta Induction Ceremony (not pictured: Gene McGinnis, Civil & Environmental Engineering Chair).

Posted in Academics, Events, Press Releases, School of Engineering

CBU to Host Open House for PA Program

Posted on April 29, 2013

Christian Brothers University (CBU) will host an Open House for the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS) program Thursday, May 23, from 4:00-8:00 p.m. in the Sabbatini Lounge. Join the Physician Assistant Studies faculty for light refreshments, tours of the facilities and information on the first and only PA program in Memphis. This event is free and open to public, and program faculty and staff will be available to answer
any questions.

The CBU Physician Assistant program is cohort-based and consists of a seven semester curriculum. With one new cohort accepted each year in January, CBU’s PA program allows students to prepare for one of the Top Seven Growth Professions.

The Physician Assistant program curriculum is delivered through traditional campus-based methods at the University, with clinical rotations located at sites throughout the Memphis metropolitan area, one of the nation’s leading medical centers. Using newly renovated facilities for both the didactic and laboratory components of the program, the curriculum focuses on six major competencies: medical knowledge, interpersonal and communication skills, patient care, professionalism, practice-based learning and improvement, and systems-based practiced.

This program has been granted provisional accreditation from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). Upon completion of the program, the Physician Assistants are licensed to practice medicine, issues prescriptions, and practice in all medical fields including primary care, internal medicine and subspecialties, as well as surgical and emergency care. The PA’s scope of practice may also include education, research, and administrative status.

Applications are currently being accepted for the January 2014 term through July 1. Space is limited. To learn more about CBU’s PA program and this Open House, visit www.cbu.edu/PAS, email pas@cbu.edu or call (901) 321-3388.

Posted in Academics, Events, Press Releases, School of Sciences

CBU 2013 Commencement

Posted on April 25, 2013

Mayors Luttrell and Wharton to Receive Honorary Doctorates

Marking its 142nd graduation with more than 430 undergraduate and graduate students set to receive diplomas, Christian Brothers University (CBU) continues its tradition of an on-campus outdoor Commencement Ceremony at Signaigo Field on Saturday, May 11 at 9:00 a.m.

During the ceremony, the University will award The Honorable Mayors Mark H. Luttrell and A C Wharton Jr. with an Honorary Doctor of Public Service for their lifelong commitment to the citizens of Memphis and Shelby County. Their progressive leadership and ongoing initiatives have promoted a safe, healthy and economically thriving community for all, and contributed to the city and county being one of the nation’s most effective and efficient governments.

Mayor Luttrell, born in Jackson, Tennessee, moved to Memphis as a teenager and graduated from Bartlett High School. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Union University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Memphis. Beginning his career as a history teacher, followed by two years in the Army, Luttrell entered the corrections field where he held several positions in the county and federal prisons systems including Shelby County Sherriff for eight years. In 2010, he was elected Shelby County Mayor.

Mayor Wharton, a native of Lebanon, Tennessee earned a political science degree from Tennessee State University, Juris Doctorate from the University of Mississippi Law School and became the University’s first African-American professor of law, where he taught for 25 years. Wharton began his career as a public defender, served as executive director of the nonprofit Memphis Area Legal Services, was twice elected as Shelby County Mayor and has been the Mayor of the City of Memphis since 2009.

Also being honored are CBU Golden Jubilarians, members of the Class of 1963, some of whom will be present for this commencement celebration.

Prior to Commencement, the CBU Baccalaureate Prayer Service will be held on Friday, May 10, at 7:00 p.m. at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 1695 Central Avenue. Ruby R. Wharton, attorney and First Lady of the City of Memphis, is the keynote speaker and the 2013 recipient of the Bishop Carroll T. Dozier Award for Peace and Justice.

Wharton graduated from Boston College Law School, served as an advocate for indigent clients in housing matters at the Neighborhood Legal Services Program in Washington D.C., and then became an assistant public defender in Memphis. She subsequently joined the firm of Adams and Wharton as a partner. She has practiced extensively in the Circuit, Chancery and Probate Courts of Shelby County and in the Federal Court system.

The award is named for Bishop Carroll T. Dozier, the first Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Memphis and a leader in race relations, peace and justice. Bishop Dozier served as Bishop of Memphis from 1971-1982.

The University grants the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Arts in Business,Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Science and Mathematics, Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics, Master of Arts in Catholic Studies, Master of Arts in Teaching, Master of Education, Master of Science in Educational Leadership, Master of Business Administration, Master of Engineering Management and Master of Science in Engineering Management.

In the event of rain or other bad weather, the Commencement ceremony will take place at Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church (70 N. Bellevue Blvd.).

For more information on CBU’s commencement activities, visit www.cbu.edu/commencement2013 or contact the Office of Student Life at (901) 321-3531.

Posted in Academics, Events, Press Releases