Category: Alumni News
Viral post turns into writing career for 'Sacred Ground, Sticky Floors' blogger
In one month, from August to September 2015, Jami (McKelvie ’96) Amerine saw her blog readership jump from an average of 69 views per month to 690,000. That is not a misprint. It is a an increase of 689,931 views. And it all happened thanks to one entry titled, “An Open Letter to My Children: You’re … Continued
Childhood emergency with horse led to veterinary career
When Jennifer Grimes (’03) was 14, one of her family’s quarter horses was stricken with colic and required emergency surgery to save its life. That was the day she decided to become a veterinarian. The family rushed the horse to Texas A&M University’s surgical facilities and rejoiced when the surgery was successful. For Jennifer, however, … Continued
Alumni couple's nonprofit focuses on helping Haiti
Bill (’76) and Janet (Wilson ’74) Montgomery started their nonprofit, Just Mercy, in 2010 after an earthquake devastated Haiti, killing more than 200,000 people. With 1.5 million people displaced, Bill took his background in construction, mechanics, farming and gardening to the impoverished country. Since then the nonprofit has grown, and with the help of others, … Continued
Alumna’s autism advocacy leads to statewide initiative
All parents worry about their teens driving, but parents of children with autism face special concerns. An autistic teen pulled over for a traffic violation or involved in a car accident may not be able to make himself or herself understood and an atypical demeanor may cause concern for law officers. Jennifer (England ’85) Allen, … Continued
Aspergers101 offers help for families dealing with autism
Jennifer (England ’85) Allen has worn many hats in the world of communication since she graduated from ACU, but her current job as executive director of Aspergers101 is closest to her heart. She formed the nonprofit organization to provide resources related to high-functioning autism and Asperger’s Syndrome after learning her oldest son had the condition. … Continued
Anthony succeeds Packer as chair, Culpepper and Wilburn added to board
When historians look back on the tenures of Abilene Christian University board chairs named Packer, the list of accomplishments will be significant. At meetings this past weekend, the role as chair of ACU’s Board of Trustees changed hands, from Dr. Barry Packer (’78) to April (Bullock ’89) Anthony. Packer and his dad, the late Dr. … Continued
Eagles still look to Wilbert in NFL playoff crunch time
It’s been 37 years since the Philadelphia Eagles turned to an Abilene Christian University football legend to help them reach the Super Bowl. Two weeks ago, they did it again. Both moves turned out pretty well. Wilbert Montgomery (’77) was one of the honorary captains – along with Brian Dawkins – chosen by the team … Continued
Parker uses business acumen to help the homeless
Molly Parker (’07) earned a master’s degree in communication sciences and disorders but found her calling as an entrepreneur whose business provides an income for her family but also helps the homeless. Molly began Graceful Remedies in February of 2014 out of a passion for organic home and personal care products. The parent company now has … Continued
Alumna finds success as New York City casting director
In a move that took her from Abilene Christian University to the bustling streets of New York City, theatre graduate Ally (Bonneau ’14) Beans has stepped from her spotlight on stage to a career behind the scenes. In April, Ally joined her former boss, casting director Daryl Eisenberg, to form their own company. Eisenberg/Beans Casting … Continued