“The Fines practice what they read, teach and write,”

It is the dedication to students, family and Milligan College that has established a well-renowned presence on campus for Eddie Fine and his wife, Billye Joyce. As a way to recognize their efforts within the Milligan family, staff held the installation ceremony of the W. Edward and Billye Joyce Fine Chair of Education on Tuesday, Sept. 4, inside Seeger Memorial Chapel. During the event, Milligan recognized Professor of Education Dr. Patrick Kariuki as the W. Edward and Billye Joyce Fine Chair of Education. The event also marks the installation of the college’s 13th endowed faculty chair, a way to honor academic prowess among its faculty and staff.

“Thanks to the hard work and dedication of Dr. Kariuki and the entire teacher education faculty, our graduates are among the most sought after teachers in area school systems and beyond,” Milligan President Dr. Bill Greer said during the ceremony.

Tuesday served as a way to honor the efforts of the Fines and Kariuki. The endowed chair was made possible due to the “generosity” of Eddie and Billye Joyce and their tireless work of supporting students and the community at-large, according to Greer.

The Fines have been staples in the Milligan area, along with Elizabethton and Johnson City. Eddie has served Milligan many years on different boards and services as a minister to Downtown Christian Church in Johnson City. Billye Joyce remains active in the education department at Milligan by serving as adjunct professor and serving in various community organizations, including the Carter County Imagination Library.

“(The Fines) are true ambassadors of Milligan College and true servant leaders,” said Kariuki.

Kariuki has taught graduate-level courses in research methods, data analysis and advanced child development at Milligan College since joining the faculty in 1995. Kariuki also teaches undergraduate psychology and child development courses.

“Dr. Kariuki exemplifies servant-leadership in all aspects of his life, and I know he will continue to represent Milligan well as he invests in educators who will make a significant difference in the lives of their students,” said Greer.

A named chair is established in honor of a benefactor who has “shown sacrificial support to the college’s academic programs and is reserved for distinguished scholars and teachers” according to information provided by the school.

Throughout the event, faculty took time to express their thanks to the Fines and Kariuki, including Jack Simpson and Angela Hilton-Prillhart. Anne Kariuki, Patrick’s wife, also participated in the event by reading from the Scripture.