Davis College History

The Marine Class President: From the Battles of the First World War

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Thu, 23 Jun 2016 18:22:00 +0000

One hundred years ago the War in Europe was intensifying and in less than a year the United States would be sending troops to the battlelines. One such man was Dutton Stiles Peterson.

Dutton was born in Costello, PA on December 10, 1894 and was dedicated by his mother to the ministry of God soon after birth, yet his path to getting there would take several detours. He graduated from High School in 1910 and attended Valparaiso University in Indiana from 1910-1912. He would go on to teach and work at Highland Condensing Company from 1913-1916 where he tested milk. He would also work as a machinist at Morrow Manufacturing in Elmira, NY from 1916-1917.

Then on April 6, 1917 the United States entered the World War. Dutton enlisted in the 5th Marine Regiment and was sent to France on June 8, 1917. The 5th Marine Regiment was also called the "Fighting Fifth" this group fought in some intense battles. He was commissioned for distinguished service on the field at Belleau Woods, a fierce battle that cost nearly 2,000 lives and injured nearly 8,000.

In September 1918 he was promoted from Corporal to Lieutenant. He was captain while fighting in Germany of the Automatic Rifle Team. This team set a world record at the time. He also served in the Verdun and Marache Sectors and fought at the Chateau Thierry, Soissons, St. Mihiel Argonne Forest, and the march to the Rhine.

He would return home with over forty physical wounds from his time in Europe and returned to the machine shop he had left in Elmira. While in Elmira the prayer of dedication his mother had made a quarter of a century earlier would be answered.

In January of 1920 Dutton entered Practical Bible Training School as a student. He was chosen as the Class President for the class of 1922, the first class to have a yearbook where his information is recorded.

The prayers of a mother and the protection of God in the battlefields of Europe lead this young man to the ministry of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Lieutenant Dutton Stiles Peterson went home to glory on October 20, 1964 at the age of 69.

116 Years Ago...The first classes of PBTS

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Wed, 22 Jun 2016 16:25:00 +0000

What can you accomplish in 78 days? That was the amount of time it took an eager 28 year old evangelist, husband, and father of two by the name of John A. Davis to start Practical Bible Training School (now Davis College).
On April 10, 1900 while preaching in Elmira, NY he had received a one dollar bill from a poor wash woman that had confirmed his calling to start a Bible school similar to Moody's in Chicago. There was no permanent structure for the new school so John rented a room above Lestershire Home Furnishing on the corner of Main and Arch Streets in Lestershire (now Johnson City), NY.
The school opened on Tuesday, June 27 and held evening classes on Monday, Thursday, and Friday nights until the closing on Friday, August 17. John A. Davis taught 105 students from six different denominations of churches during those classes. His subjects were: How to Use the Bible, Bible Book Summary, Personal [evangelistic] Work, and Introductory Studies in Bible Doctrine.
The closing service was held on August 20 at the Lestershire Methodist Episcopal Church (now Sarah Jane Johnson Memorial
United Methodist Church). During the ceremony lead by Rev. Edward Taylor pledges were raised for a permanent building for the school. They were able to raise $1,279 toward the building that would cost $8,000.
Due to the success of the first classes that summer a second series of evening classes were held from November 19-30 at both the Lestershire Methodist Episcopal Church and the Lestershire Baptist Church. The lecture for these students, which totaled 160, was none other than the Rev. R. A. Torrey who was the dean of the Moody Bible Institute in Chicago.
Much can happen in 78 days, but for John A. Davis he used his talents and gifts and began a school that has trained thousands of men and women to preach, teach, and live the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the community of Johnson City, NY and to the ends of the earth.

Dr. Vincent William Griffis has gone home to be with the LORD

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 13:12:00 +0000

Dr. Vincent William Griffis went home to his Savior on Saturday, September 27, 2014.

Vince was the second son of Dr. Paul and Dorothy Griffis. Paul Griffis had attended PBTS from 1929 until 1932 where he graduated as Salutatorian of his class. Paul joined the faculty of Practical in 1952 and became the dean of academics in 1963.

(L-R) Vincent Griffis, Paul Griffis, Dorothy Griffis, Darry Griffis (1964 Theologue)

Vince became of a student of Practical Bible Training School in the fall of 1964. He became roommates with Walt Schlundt and friends with Jerry Traister and Dino Pedrone. The four of them would become life-long friends. Vince's freshman year was also the senior year for Woodrow Kroll and Gilbert Parker.

Vince graduated from Practical Bible Training School in 1967 along with Walt, Jerry, and Dino.

During his studies at PBTS, Vince met Suzanne Sisson. The two would marry on January 24, 1969 after Vince received his Bachelor degree from Calvary Bible College.

Vince's Senior Picture (1967 Theologue)

Vince and Sue moved to New England soon after being married where Vince taught at the Rhode Island School for the Deaf. He was called onto becoming the headmaster for the Christian of Greater Fall River. He served there for fourteen years. In those years all four of their children were born: Aron, Andrew, Abigail, and Adam.

The LORD still had a work for the Griffis family. In 1988 Vince and Sue joined Wycliffe Bible Translators. After training they were sent to Cameroon. Vince started the Rain Forest International School for the Missionary Kids (MKs) and nationals. They returned to the States in 2007.

Vince and Sue

Vince and Sue with Dr. Dino Pedrone (2008)

On Saturday, May 10, 2009 Vince was given the first honorary doctorate from Davis College at the commencement. He also delivered the main address to the graduating class.

Vince Speaking to the graduating class of 2009

(L-R) Sue Griffis, Vince Griffis, Walt Schlundt, Jerry Traister, Dino Pedrone, Janice Chandler

Vince had been fighting cancer for many years, but was still able to come to Homecoming at his Alma Mater including his 45th class reunion in 2012.

Class of 1967 (45th reunion)

Vince had been fighting cancer for sixteen years when the LORD called His faithful servant home to glory. At his memorial service on Saturday, October 4, 2014 in Swansea, MA friends and family remembered his love for family and friends and his mischief. He was able to say goodbye to all of his kids before his homegoing.

You will be missed Vince. Thank you for serving our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ with your whole heart.

To read his obituary click here.

Donations can be made to the college. A fund has been setup in his name:

Vincent Griffis Memorial Fund at Davis College, 400 Riverside Dr., Johnson City, NY 13790

Dr. James "Scotty" Little has gone home to glory

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Tue, 25 Feb 2014 11:22:00 +0000

Dr. James "Scotty" Little (class of 1957) has gone home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He passed away on Sunday, February 23, 2014. Dr. Little attended PBTS from the Fall of 1954 until graduating in 1957.

Why Davis College?

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 18:34:00 +0000

Here is a great group of current Davis students telling why they choose Davis College.

80th anniversary of Charles J. Davis' death

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 12:54:00 +0000

Today marks 80 years since John and Etta Carr's youngest son Charles Davis died. To read an article from a few years ago about the circumstances surrounding his death click here.

Grace Fabian (Class 1959) shares Testimony

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Sat, 30 Apr 2011 14:10:00 +0000

The same month and year man landed on the moon, Grace and her husband Edmund landing in Papua New Guinea

Grace with a photo of her husband Edmund on the PowerPoint

Grace holds up a completed Nabak New Testament

Grace wearing the headdress given by the Sanau clan.

Grace (Jones) Fabian, PBTS class 1959, spoke in chapel on Thursday, April 28, 2011. She shared her testimony with the students, faculty, and staff. No matter how often I (Corey J. Adams) hear her testimony it still touches me. Grace shared about her journey to Papua New Guinea with her husband Edmund. If you have never heard her story I would encourage you to buy a copy of her autobiography: Outrageous Grace: A Story of Tragedy and Forgiveness. You will be challenged as the students were hearing the testimony.

"Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place." ~ 2 Corinthians 2.14

A decade ago...(Thursday, February 22, 2001)

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 05:00:00 +0000

John Terry (Class 1986) seen here at Homecoming 2009

Today marks one decade since Thursday, February 22, 2001. On that Pastor John Terry (Class 1986), a friend (Mike McCall), and I (Corey Adams) traveled down to Practical Bible College. It would be the first day I would step onto the campus of PBC. I was a sophomore at Southern Cayuga High School and Pastor Terry had invited Mike and I down to his Alma Mater. I had heard of Practical Bible College as several of the pastors I had known through the years had graduated from Practical. I still remember coming up to the campus from Riverside for the first time and getting the first view of the campus.

We pulled up to the administration building/admission building at that time, and met up with Suzanne Graham who was in admissions and she was going to take us on a tour of the campus. It was still in the early morning...like 9 AM...so the students were just waking up and getting ready for classes. As we were getting ready to go on the tour we met Dan Rathmell and Dr. George Miller III, the president of the college. The group of four of us walked over to the men's dorm, Patterson where the students were getting ready for classes and heading out. I saw a few of the guys I had attended with at Immanuel Baptist School in Auburn, NY.

The group of us heading to the Main Building and we were told there was a debate going on in the Acts Class over the Jerusalem Council. We decided that we would go to the bookstore before we headed to chapel in Lowe/Wagner Hall. There were two classes going on and the divide between the two class rooms had to be opened so there would be enough room for chapel.

After Chapel we sat in a class with Dr. Leigh Upchurch in Lowe Hall. Dr. Upchurch was speaking about Third Culture kids in a Missionary life class. We popped out of the class before it was done and headed down to lunch in the Klee dining hall and met up with some of the other professors and students. I remember I was very interested in the end times and I was told a good person to speak to was Dr. Parker in the Academic's building. It seems funny now, but I was getting lost trying to figure out how to find Academic's behind the Gym. The Cafe was under construction at the time and I remember seeing that being worked on during that visit.

I found Academics and asked someone where Dr. Parker's office was, turns out it was Dr. Parker I was asking. We had a good chat about Eschatology and he gave me a copy of a book about the Antichrist.

That afternoon before we headed back to the Finger Lakes I remember walking on sidewalk by the old administration building and knowing that God wanted me to go to Practical Bible College when I graduated from Southern Cayuga. I remember saying out loud to God, "So God this is where you want me to go? OK." One of best choices of life after accepting Christ as my Savior.

I would go to two Preview Days at the college during the next couple of years before finally going the college in August of 2003.

Thank You LORD for opening the doors to my Davis Family

Part 1--100 years on Riverside: Harrison and the White City

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 23:18:00 +0000

47 Harrison Street Johnson City

The entrance to the White City Park

The fountain and Roller Coaster in the center of the White City

One hundred years ago when the midnight arrived on Sunday, January 1, 1911 the Practical Bible Training School was preparing for a move and transition. The transition had already begun the previous summer in 1910 when the White City had gone bankrupt. From the 1934 Theologue the events happened like this:

This brewery-backed resort was a separate organization for the purpose of selling liquors. As such, it had the backing of the brewery and liquor interests, and any effort to obtain the grounds for other purposes would naturally meet with the determined resistance of those financially interested.This resistance was felt keenly. There was many a struggle and many a prayer. For two years John A. Davis waited for the manifestation of the hand of God. It appears that some of the stockholders, desiring to obtain an advantage, started a fight within the amusement organization which resulted in finally throwing the “White City” corporation into the hands of a receiver. At this time Evangelist Davis was holding a campaign in one of the larger cities of central Pennsylvania.

Between 1907 and 1908 John A. Davis began to pray for the grounds of the White City as the next location for PBTS. The 47 Harrison Street location had been outgrowing its location since soon after moving into the grounds in 1901 (only a decade earlier). In the summer of 1908 John A. Davis went onto the ground of the White City. The 1934 Theologue records it like this:

Mr. Davis, always keenly alive to the needs of the School and realizing the possibilities of this place, if it could be secured, one day paid the admission fee through the gates and visited the grounds. He saw the beautiful oak trees, the elms and other trees, among them evergreens, and visualized the possibilities of the place as a permanent home for the Practical Bible Training School. As he walked about the grounds he happened to glance into the bar-room and saw the men and women lined up three-deep around the bar, some of them in an advanced state of intoxication. As he turned to leave, he vowed to himself, “With the help of God I’ll smash this place, “ and with that resolve in his mind, as he was outside of the gate, he knelt beside the high wire fence and prayed to God to give him this place for His work.

God answered John's prayer two years later with the park going bankrupt. As mentioned earlier he was at a campaign in Pennsylvania when the sale occurred. It was bought by "a Binghamton business man [From what I can tell this Binghamton business man was Mr. Kilmer (though it is unclear which Kilmer it was)] interested in the School, though not aware of Mr. Davis’ hopes regarding the park, secured a short term option on the property and wired Mr. Davis rushed back, and within three hours had called his board together and exercised their option, which gave them title to the property with all the buildings on it, one of the which was a large and roomy hotel" (1934 Theologue).

Thus began the change from The White City Amusement Park to Bible School Park, NY

To be continued in part 2 (100 years years on Riverside: The transformation and move)

Fall on Campus 60 years ago

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Sat, 20 Nov 2010 14:25:00 +0000

Here is a picture that was scanned from the 35mm slides that I was given over a year ago. It is a view of the campus from Riverside Drive in the 1950s. It looks to the Main Building and the Cross over the drive.

Fall on Campus Photosynth

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Sat, 23 Oct 2010 22:27:00 +0000

Some images taken on Saturday, October 23, 2010 of the campus of Davis College put together in a Photosynth. Enjoy.

Images of Fall on Campus

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Sat, 23 Oct 2010 03:22:00 +0000

It is Fall on the campus of Davis. The leaves are changing to oranges, yellows, and reds. The students were on Fall Break a couple of weeks ago and now they are back in the swing of things as the semester continues to plunge forward. Keep them in your prayers.

Homecoming 2010 and the Gala: Friday, October 1, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 01:00:00 +0000

Registration Table for Homecoming

Pastor Mike Jayne (1994) and Mrs. Patsy Holmes (1952)

Worship team at Davis

Pastor Craig Hall (1994) manager of the Davis bookstore

Vince and Sue Griffis (1967)

Dr. Dino Pedrone (1967) President of Davis College

Dr. Dino Pedrone (1967)

Dr. Ron Hawkins (1963) Vice Provost for the Graduate School and Online Program at Liberty University

Dr. Ron Hawkins (1963)

Dr. Dino Pedrone and Dr. Ron Hawkins

Mr. and Mrs. George Whitman (class 1945)

Mr. Carl Silver (1953) and Mrs. Sally Silver (1951)

Mr. Bill Dykes, Gospel Singer and Trustee on the Board at Davis

Jerry Traister (1967) Chairman of the Board with Dr. Pedrone

Mr. Jerry Traister (1967)

Dr. Pedrone brought up the Board of Trustees and had the Pastors in the room pray for them

Several students sharing about their time at Davis and God's calling

Mrs. Eleanor Krooswyk (class 1937)

Class of 1965 Reunion

Classmates reconnecting after 30 years

Sally Silver and her classmate from 1951

Here is a crew from 1967 (L-R) Jerry Traister, Walter Schlundt, and Vince Griffis

The majority of Class Agents at Homecoming

Dr. Ron Hawkins at an Alumni Gathering

Dr. Ron Hawkins and his wife Peggy

Dr. Gilbert Parker and his wife Marolyn (both 1965)

The Gym transformed into the Gala

One of the place settings

The History Displays in the Gym

The lights come on for the Gala

Guests arriving and sitting down at the tables

While the guests were eating I presented the History of the College in Lowe

The History of Davis

There were torches lit up around campus

Homecoming 2010 was an amazing time this past Friday. It was quite the Historic day that was enjoyed by those who attended. Let me take you on the journey:

After a long rain that flood the street on Thursday the rain continued to come down in the early morning light. By 7:45 AM the rain had stopped and the sun started to appear and the clouds began to dissipate. Around 8 AM Alumni started arriving on campus to register for Homecoming. They were greeted as the first picture shows by Jenny Green, Roseann Melious, and Nikki Post. The first session started a little after 9:00 AM in the morning with a group made up of two students (Ben Tinsch and Levi Owens) and the adjunct professor of music, Scott Ladd (2008). Dr. Pedrone (1967) gave a welcome to the audience of students and Alumni and introduced the speaker, Dr. Ron Hawkins (1963) who is the Vice Provost for the Graduate School and Online Program at Liberty University.

Dr. Hawkins had a great message between his two sessions (Session 1: 9-10 AM and Session 2: 10:07-11 AM). He talked about the Christian life and the powers in a Christian life to make us more and more like Jesus Christ. He talked about the one goal we should striving for is to be an imitator of Jesus Christ. To do that we have three powers: The Holy Spirit, the Bible, and the Local Body of Believers (the Church).

Following the second session with Dr. Hawkins there was a break before Dr. Pedrone's Alumni Address. From around 11:30 AM -12:30 PM, Dr. Pedrone along with Jerry Traister and several others talked to the students and Alumni. Before they began we were all treated to Mr. Bill Dykes singing. Mr. Dykes is a former member of the Cathedrals and now is on the Davis Board. Several weeks ago I had written on his Facebook wall about the Hymn "God will Take Care of You" which was written at PBTS in 1904 and asked him to sing it if possible because of the of history of it. He sang a medley of the hymn and told the rest of the people about the history. It was great!

After he had sung the mini-concert, Dr. Pedrone had all the Board Members in Lowe come to the front and introduce themselves. After they introduced themselves he had all the pastors in the room to come up and pray over them as Dr. Ron Hawkins lead in prayer.

After the prayer for the Board Members Dr. Pedrone brought up 5 students to the front of Lowe Hall. They were: Junior Ben Tinsch, Transfer student Brad Zembower, Sophomore Mariah Britton, Senior Nate Benner, and Sophomore Brandon Grey. Each student talked about how God had been working in their life at Davis College. Ben has been working at his local highway department during the summer to be a testimony for Christ and also serving on a worship team at North Syracuse Baptist, where Dr. George Miller III is pastor. Brad has had his worldview changed and he has been able to do more preaching, though he is not sure if God is calling him to be a pastor. Mariah mentioned how Davis is like a home away from home. Nate met his wife at Davis and the college has been a place where he has been able to mature. Brandon is training to go back to his home in the Queens and minister to the families and people back in New York City.

After interview the 5 students Dr. Pedrone mentioned the three things that he is trying to stress this year:

1. Academics: Davis is a place of higher education. He wants the students to be students of the WORD, and students of the field they are studying to be in. That they do their best in their learning. Well prepared for the World.

2. Chapels: Importance of the Chapel, he wants the students to come to Chapel believing they might be called in a chapel. Receive what God has for them. Please Pray for the Chapels.

3. Victorious Christian Life: We are already given the Victorious life in Christ. Since we are IN CHRIST. It is not something we are striving to be, we are victorious in Christ. We need to live out that VICTORY!

Dr. Pedrone moved to what can the Alumni Do?

Pray for the College (Most important thing to do)
Give to the College (Many needs on the campus; we need to build on the scholarship fund.)

Dr. Pedrone stated that, "The future of this country will depend upon men and women trained for Gospel ministry. I believe that will all my heart. I would have never come here if I did not believe that."

Dr. Pedrone introduced Adrain Young of Ambassador Advisors. The purpose of Ambassador Advisors is to help Christians prepare for the future through Biblical stewardship. Later in the afternoon Adrain did a presentation about Biblical stewardship and mentioned that "17 of the 38 parables that Christ taught are about possessions; The topic of possessions is mentioned in Scripture more than any other:

- 3 times more than love

- 7 times more than prayer

- 8 times more than belief

About 15% of God's Word (2,172 verses) deals with possessions, treasures hidden in a field, pearls, talents, pounds, stables, etc."

He shared a lot of good information about how to use it for the Kingdom of God, since we cannot take it with us. How can each of us use what God has entrusted to us for His Kingdom? Great things to think and pray about.

Dr. Pedrone at the end of the Alumni Address had us turn to Psalm 19 which is a wonderful Psalm of the Revelation of the LORD.

Verses 1-6: These verses talk about the Revelation of God that we see in the wonders above.
Verses 7-11: These verses talk about the Revelation God in the Word within our lives
Verses 12-14: These verses talk about the Revelation God in His workers

After talking about Psalm 19 it was lunch time with Class Reunions. So many Alumni were there as the pictures above show. Alumni from the 1930 through the present day. I had a great time visiting with many of the Alumni for the brief time I was down there for lunch.

At 2 PM the Class Agents met in Lowe Hall while the rest of the Alumni continued to gather in the Dining Hall. We discussed different ways to reach our classmates and the classmates were are trying to reconnect with (Note: If you are an Alumnus or Alumna of PBTS/PBC/Davis and you have not heard from Davis in a while, there is a good chance we do not have your address and we would love to reconnect with you. Please use the form on the side and send a message to me). It was also discussed what day(s) of the week works best for Homecoming. We were able to get a group picture of most of the class agents as seen above.

After the Class Agent meeting there was a time of fellowship and reflection with Dr. Ron and Mrs. Peggy Hawkins and Dr. Gilbert and Mrs. Marolyn Parker. It was a time of prayer for different Alumni that are ill or hurting and also a time of reflecting on professors who have touched our lives in the past, many of which have gone home to glory.

As the day continued on the final prep for the gala was put into place. A History Display was put together by Jenny Green (Dr. Pedrone's Administrative Assistant) and Jeremy McGinniss (the College Librarian). Sharon O'Connor (Director of Marketing) had asked me several months before for a list of items that could go on display and they took that list and expanded upon it and created a wonderful display in the Gym for the Guests of the Gala. From around 5:30 until around 6:10 PM I was at the Gala as guests came in and talked to some of them about the history of college. It was great to see the gym fill with over 400 guests. As the guests were entering the Gala I went to Lowe Hall.

In Lowe I did my History Presentation in front of around 30-40 people as the guests at the gala ate their meal. After I finished my presentation I switched the feed over the Gala which was streaming from the Gym. A video made at the college was shown feature several students, professors, and Dr. Pedrone. After the video was finished Board Member Jeff Coghlan introduced student, Ben Kettor who shared about Davis and his desire to go back to his home in Liberia, Africa to help rebuild his war torn country. Jeff Coghlan once again rose up as the anticipation rose and he introduced Gov. Mike Huckabee to the stage.

Much cheering was heard in audience of the gala and cheers also rang out in Lowe Hall where it was being broadcast. Mike Huckabee is a very humble person with a great personality. He joked about some of the events on the campaign trail in 2008. One that stood out to me.

A lady walked up to Gov. Huckabee shaking her finger and said to him, "I heard you are a Baptist minister."

Gov. Huckabee replied, "Yes Ma'am I am."

"Are you one of those narrow minded Baptist Ministers that thinks that ONLY Baptists are going to Heaven?"

He replied back, "No, Ma'am I am more narrow minded than that, because I don't think some of the Baptists are going to Heaven."

He continued on later talking about his humble roots and how his parents were heard working people in Arkansas who wanted a better life for their children. He mentioned how he was the first male in his family to get a college education. He said it was because of scholarships and hard work. He was very thankful for the Christian education he received and how he was proud to support colleges like Davis that give a Christian worldview and train future leaders for the country. He mentioned how as governor the thing that disgusted him each year was how much money went into the prison system. He said that the cost to keep one (1) inmate in prison for one (1) year is enough to pay for one (1) person for four (4) years of college. Which one would be better? That is why he supports Davis College to train men and women for the ministry and be productive members of society. He challenged the audience to get behind Davis College and support them. He then went and sat down as Dr. Pedrone came up and closed out the very special evening that brought many friends and alumni to the campus.

After the evening of excitement there was a Hymn sing in Lowe Hall with Dr. Brent Young. About half a dozen Alumni stayed as we enjoyed some Hymns of Faith. After the Hymn sing several of us were out side praising God for the wonderful day. It was a great Homecoming and Gala.

Thanks to all who help put it all together

Last minute prep for Gala...

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 02:44:00 +0000

The Gym has been transformed into the Gala for tomorrow night with Mike Huckabee.

Homecoming 2010 is in the Morning...

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 13:31:00 +0000

Trailers setting up tents for Homecoming and for the Gala

A Mobile picture of the campus in the pouring raining

The Robb Gym is being transformed into the Gala

It is a rainy day in the Southern Tier of New York as the finishing touches are put in place for Homecoming 2010 and the Presidential Gala featuring Mike Huckabee. Keep the events in prayer and for the Alumni that are traveling today and tomorrow. I am looking forward to doing my History Presentation in the Evening in Lowe Hall and meeting up with Alumni. It is going to be a great day.

First Home Game Soccer Game on Labor Day

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 00:17:00 +0000

The pictures above are from one of the early practices for the Men's Soccer team

Tomorrow (Monday, September 6, 2010) will be the first home game for the soccer season. The game starts at 4:30 PM against Roberts Wesleyan College J.V. If you are in the area stop by the former IBM Country Club on Harry L. Drive/Watson Boulevard and cheer on the Falcons. The Women's soccer team will be playing the Roberts Wesleyan J.V. Tuesday at 4 PM at the same location.

Go Falcons!

First Day of Classes and History Presentation

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:42:00 +0000

The campus on the first day of classes for the 2010-2011 school year

Giving the History presentation in Lowe Hall

Presenting the rich History of Davis College to the Freshmen

Yesterday (Monday, August 30, 2010) was the first day of classes for the 2010-2011 school year. The campus was alive with activity as students headed to classes and began soaking up the Word. The Broadway Cafe also opened to the public and several people from the community came in to buy some of the first cups of coffee.

Yesterday, I also presented the History of the College to the Freshmen class. So much history and so little time to present it all. It was a great time and many freshmen said that they enjoyed it afterward.

Have you received the Alumnus...Let's chat

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 04:26:00 +0000

Greetings Alumni of our Alma Mater that is "on the banks of Susquehanna." How are you doing? I have been getting a lot of great feedback from emails and phone calls about The Alumnus. I believe most of you that are located in the Continental United States have received the publication. If you have not we might have a current address on record at Davis. Use the form on the site of the blog and send me a message with an updated address so we can get the following publications out. This first edition at this time will only be in print format to protect the Class Agents from getting spam, as their email addresses are included for you to contact them. This coming Thursday, September 2, 2010 (7PM-8:30 PM EST) there will be an Alumni chat on the Alumni Forum: http://daviscollegealumni.ning.com/ If you have not joined please join today.

On another note keep the students in prayer as the new and transfer students have come to campus and the returning students will be coming to campus tomorrow. Classes begin on Monday.

I look forward to "Chatting" with many of you on Thursday.

Freshmen History Presentation on Monday

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 02:04:00 +0000

Presentation 2 years ago (Monday, September 15, 2008)

This coming Monday (August 30, 2010) I will be presenting the History of the College to the Freshmen in College Life. This marks the 5th Freshmen class that I have done the History Presentation with. The first class the heard the presentation was the class that just graduated in May, back when they were Freshmen in September 2006. I presented it a second time on Monday, September 10, 2007, and a third time on Monday, September 15, 2008. Last year I presented it on Monday, September 14, 2009. Every time I present the history to a new class I have a great experience of sharing just a little piece of rich heritage they have come to.

See you all Monday

Visiting with 1951 Alumni

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 02:24:00 +0000

Nancy Wildsmith and Sally Silver (class 1951)

Saturday I was on campus to see the RAs as the new school year begins and was pleasantly surprised to see two PBTS Alumni (Nancy Wildsmith and Sally Silver). Both were classmates in the class of 1951. Sally was the Vice President of the class and is now the class agent for the class of 1951. It was great seeing them and talking with them as we walked around the campus.

The 2010-2011 School year is about to begin...

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 13:48:00 +0000

New Tile in the Basement of Patterson

A dorm room on the first floor of Patterson all ready to have student

The front of the campus

Alice E. Chatlos Library

William J. Chatlos-Gordon C. Davis Memorial (Main Building)

Kenneth C. Robb Activity Center

The Student Services Building (formally the home of Claire Patterson and also Walt Schlundt)

The Gazebo

Student Services and the Robb Activity Center

The Gazebo and Chatlos

The Main Entrance

The Gazebo

The Robb Activity Center

Academics Building (formally Gordon C. Davis' building)

Academics Building on the Knoll

New tile on the floor of Chatlos

It has been 110 years since the doors of PBTS were opened to students. Granted it was over a store on the corner of Main and Arch Streets in Lestershire (Johnson City) not on the current campus. It has been 99 years since the first students walked onto "God's chosen place" that is located "on the banks of Susquehanna." In a little over a week the campus will be filled with activity as new students and transfer students walk onto the campus of Davis preparing for their future in serving God. Keep them in prayer as they begin this new journey as many of you can remember your first days on the campus of PBTS/PBC/Davis. Classes begin on Monday, August 30, 2010.

Davis College Hope Tent Interviews

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 02:15:00 +0000

Sharon O'Connor, Director of Marketing at Davis, did four different video interviews at the Spiedie Fest on Saturday. Below are the videos.

Dale Inghram (class 1983). Dale talks about the ministry he and his wife have Speaking Truth in Love (www.speakingtruthinlove.org).

Dr. Charles Colton is the Chair of the Organizational Leadership program at Davis College and the author of the book "Core Christianity". He is going into his second year as a professor at Davis.

Junior Ben Tinsch talks about what is happening at the Hope Tent and his ministry at North Syracuse Baptist Church.

At last but not least I was interviewed. I talk about the Hope Tent and The Alumnus publication (by the way you have received it today, and if not today then tomorrow).

Spiedie Fest 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 23:22:00 +0000

The Davis College Table in the Hope Tent

The FLN display in the Hope Tent

The Big Red Balloon for the Hope Tent

The Davis Table again (enter to win a $50 certificate to the Cafe--that's a lot of coffee)

So many great organizations helped to make the Hope Tent possible.

Dale (Class 1983) and Faith Ingraham (Class 1984) helping with the ministry at the Hope Tent

Denny Brownlee and Terese Main of FLN in the Hope Tent

Keli Copper being interviewed by FLN

Keli and Denny

Admissions Counselor Caralee Godfroy being interviewed by FLN

Caralee Godfroy

Caralee talking about Davis College to FLN

Three Class of 2009 Alumni of Davis: Matt Terboss, Josh Olmstead, and Andrew Zetterstrom

Alumna Kim Phillips (2008)

Professor of Organizational Leadership Charles Colton at the Davis table

Up, up, and away

A few of the more than 30 balloons that went up

Amazing to watch each year as they go up

This one looked like a Stained Glass window

Heading to the clouds

Matthew West preforming on the Main Stage

Matthew West

Matthew West and a band member

Another member of Matthew West's band

Matthew West's band

Jars of Clay on the Main Stage

Stephen Mason of Jars of Clay

Jake Goss of Jars of Clay

Matt Odmark of Jars of Clay

Lead singer Dan Haseltine of Jars of Clay

Well another year, and another Spiedie Fest has come and gone. The weather was absolutely beautiful on all three days of the local Binghamton Festival. The Hope Tent continues to grow and the Word of God continues to spread. This year there were three tents put together with the big red balloon hovering over them. Family Life Network (FLN) used one tent for a children's carnival as well as broadcasting from it. One Tent was for the concerts put on by local groups and the third tent was used by churches and Christian organizations. Davis had a table in this tent. Several people came by and inquired about classes and put their name in for a free T-shirt or Cafe gift certificate. On Saturday, August 7, 2010 the 3rd annual "Pray for Davis College Day" took place at the table. Around 7-8 people came together and lift up the college before the throne of grace in the Hope Tent and many others lifted up the college from around the country. On Saturday also FLN broadcast live from the Hope Tent. Davis Board Member and Hope Tent Organizer Keli Copper and Admissions Counselor Caralee Godfroy were interviewed by the radio station. On Sunday, August 8, 2010 a church service was held with former New York Giant Lee Rouson. That afternoon Matthew West and Jars of Clay performed on the Main Stage to an audience of several hundred people.

Keep in prayer the seeds that were planted through the ministry of the Hope Tent that many will come to Christ!

Pray for Davis College Day (Saturday, August 7, 2010) Prayer Requests

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 17:00:00 +0000

Tomorrow (Saturday, August 7, 2010) will be the 139th anniversary of our founder's birth

The Hope Tent at Spiedie Fest

Tomorrow (Saturday, August 7, 2010) will be the third annual "Pray for Davis College Day." Started in 2008, the prayer day is a chance to lift up the college for the coming school year. The date (August 7) was chosen due to it being a couple of weeks before the school year begins, but also because it is the birthday of our founder, John A. Davis. Here in this post are some prayer requests for the college. Whether you join us at the Hope Tent tomorrow (from 11-Noon) or just pray at your home or work, please keep the college and its mission in your prayers.

PRAYER REQUESTS

Administration:

President Dino Pedrone: Pray that God continues to lead and guide him as he leads the college. Pray that he will be able to share his vision of the college and that it will be God lead. Pray for him as he travels to different churches encouraging them in the Word of God and telling them about the college. Protect him from the evil one.

Chief Operating Officer Rick Cramer: Pray that God will use him as he works with the students and the daily operations of the college. Pray that God will give him discernment and wisdom in the choices that are made for the college.

Chief Academic Officer Gilbert Parker: Pray that God will guide him in the class choices and the final schedule planning for the following semester and school year. Pray that he will mentor and lead the faculty.

Chief Financial Officer Shelly Wilcox: Pray that God will give wisdom, discernment, and prudence when dealing with the finances of the college. Give her godly council when dealing with investments.

Administrative Assistants: Pray for the Assistants of these Administrators: Jenny Green, Jerri Parisi, and Naomi Saravanapavan. Pray that they have godly attitudes and show Christ in all that they do and glory Him.

Faculty:

Stan Baker
Sheila Flipse
Scott Ladd
Roseann Melious
Bonnie Novak
Christopher Seavey
George Snyder
Debbie Bates
William Berkheiser
Rachel Bourizk
JoAnne Casterlin
Larry Hendrickson
Walt Schlundt
Todd Luce
Harold Lewis
Peter Mason
Marieta McMillen
Brent Young

Pray that God uses these individuals (as they are the ones who interact with the students on a daily basis) to help train the next generation of men and women for ministry. Pray that God will equip them for the challenges of today. Help them be relevant to the students in the changing world, with the unchanging Word of God.

Staff:

Admissions:

Caralee Godfroy
Will Reichel
Sue VanDeventer
Larry Ellis

Pray that as they travel to schools and events that the light of Christ would shine through them. Give them wisdom and discernment with those who are applying to the college. Pray that the LORD would bring those students who need the training at Davis to spread His message. Pray for guidance as they help with the government financial aid forms.

Other Departments:

Church and Alumni Relations--Dan Rathmell: Pray that God would use Dan as he speaks to churches and interacts with Pastors throughout New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and wherever the LORD leads.

Athletics and Fitness--Tom O'Connor and the other coaches: Pray that God would use the coaches at Davis to train men and women in sportsmanship and give a godly testimony when on the field or court.

Business Office--Sharon Payne and Laura Churchward: Pray that God will lead and direct with other financial choices at the college. Help them find errors when they occur in the books and help them correct them without problems. Give them discernment in their choices that it might glorify God.

Health Services--Joanna Johnson: Pray that God will help her with student's health issues. Pray that she will have wisdom in diagnosing student's ailments.

Library--Jeremy McGinniss: Pray that God will help Jeremy to find the books most useful for the college and that will be most helpful for the students.

Maintenance--John Groover and his team: Pray that God will keep safe John and his maintenance crew as they fix up the campus and in the winter as they plow and shovel.

Student Development--Nikki Post, RDs and RAs: Pray that God would work through Nikki as she prepares events for the students. Pray for the RDs and RAs as they have a lot that they do wiht the students in the dorm. Pray that the RAs will be able to balance ministering to the dorm and doing school work.

Bookstore--Craig Hall: Pray that the bookstore would continue to be a light to the Christian community in Binghamton. Pray that Craig will find books and items that will benefit the college bookstore.

Food Services--Keli Perry and team: Pray that God would help Keli and her team find the food for the Cafeteria and the Cafe that will be enjoyed by many. Pray that the Cafe would continue to be testimony in the community.

Academic Records--Spencer Key: Pray that God will help Spencer have clarity of mind when working with the records. Help him spot and correct mistakes in records to keep them accurate.

Marketing and Development--Sharon O'Connor: Pray that God will help Sharon with all that she does with the website and preparing for upcoming events. Give her the help she needs to finish the planning for events. Give her wisdom for the events and help her get connects that will benefit the school.

Students:

Pray for the incoming students of Davis both the Freshman and Transfers. Pray that they will adjust the changes and that they will feel at home. Pray that the Freshman learn to balance fun and school work and that they will not procrastinate. Pray that they will focus on Christ and grow closer to Him through their first year and that they will have a positive godly affect on the campus.

Pray for the returning students that they will continue to strive for God. Help them stay focused on the Word of God and that it will not become a textbook. Pray that they will be a positive and godly influence on the younger students. Pray that God gives direction to their life and that they will follow Him wherever He leads.

Overall:

Pray that through this school year that God would be glorified. "Let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith" (Hebrews 12.1b-2a). Pray that Davis would be a lighthouse in the Binghamton area and that men and women would come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ through the testimony of those who go to the college and work at the college. Let Jesus Christ be praised.

2010 President's Scholarship Gala with Mike Huckabee

noreply@blogger.com (Corey Adams) — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Governor Mike Huckabee

Another event that will occur on the evening of Homecoming will be a President's Scholarship Gala. This is an event that will raise funds for the President's Scholarship which seeks to provide around $350,000 annually to students at the college.

Dr. Dino Pedrone is pleased to announced that the keynote speaker for this event will be the former Arkansas Governor and Presidential Nominee, Mike Huckabee. Mr. Huckabee a devoted follower of Christ has served as a Pastor at the Beech Street Baptist Church in Texarkana, Arkansas from 1980–1986 and then also at Immanuel Baptist Church in Pine Bluff, Arkansas from 1986–1992. During his time at Immanuel, he also served as the President of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (1989-1991). He came on the national scene when January 28, 2007 he announced his run for the White House. Though losing the Republican nomination to Senator John McCain, Mr. Huckabee continued to be a voice of Christians and Conservatives.

Details of the Event

Location: Robb Activity Center on the campus of Davis College,
400 Riverside Drive, Johnson City, New York, 13790
Time: 6:30 PM (Event will last until close to 9 PM)
Purpose: We will be raising money for the President's Scholarship Fund.
Cost: Currently table sponsorships are available for $2,000.
* $2,000 Table Sponsorship: One table, ten guests.
* Includes two tickets to VIP pre-event reception with Gov. Huckabee.
Individual tickets will be available after table sponsorships are released.
Tickets will be $200/person.
Register: Friends may sponsor a table, make a donation, or get information about tickets by Clicking Here.
Contact: Questions about the President's Scholarship Fund Gala? Contact Sharon O'Connor, Director of Marketing and Development, by email (soconnor@davisny.edu) or by phone (607.729.1581 x 313).

More details to follow.