Gilded Moments – Celebrating the people, history, and legacy behind the Phoenix Ball.
Gilded Memories: Another Look Back at 1997
Heritage Committee Highlight:
This treasured photograph takes us back to 1997 and features the late Robert Carver Bone, M.D., MBA, D. Lit. Ltrs. (Hon.) and his wife, Connie.
Dr. Bone faithfully served as a member of Cumberland University’s Board of Trustees for an extraordinary 60 years, including 20 years as Chairman of the Board, and is now a Chairman Emeritus. His unwavering dedication and steadfast belief in the mission of Cumberland helped shape the university for generations of students.
As we prepare for the 42nd annual Phoenix Ball on June 6, we honor leaders like Dr. Bone whose vision, generosity, and commitment laid the foundation for the celebration we continue today.
A true legacy. A gilded past. An enduring future.
Photo by Bill Cook
Gilded Memories: A Look Back at 1997
Heritage Committee Highlight:
This cherished 1997 photo features current CU Trustee Joe Adams and his wife, Kathy Gibson Adams, alongside Dr. and Mrs. Ray Phillips — leaders and friends whose commitment to transforming lives through the power of education helped shape a pivotal season in the life of Cumberland University.
Dr. Phillips served as President of Cumberland University from 1991 to 1994, following many years of dedicated service in key leadership roles, including Vice President and a member of the Board of Trustees. His steady leadership and devotion to the university’s mission left a lasting imprint on campus life.
Today, Phillips Dining Hall stands in his honor as a daily reminder of his legacy and the generations of students who continue to gather there to find community.
As we look ahead to this year’s Phoenix Ball on June 6, we celebrate the leaders whose vision and faithfulness built the foundation we proudly carry forward to transform lives through the power of education.
Photo by the Lebanon Democrat.
Gilded Memories: 1990s Patron’s Party
Heritage Committee Highlight:
This blast from the past highlights the 1990s Patrons Party and captures attendees J.D. and Ann Floyd alongside Anna Gayle and Bobby Lannom — respected business leaders whose deep roots in Lebanon are woven into the story of our community and the history of Cumberland University.
In 1991, the Floyd family, together with the Baxter family, made a transformational $1.5 million gift to establish the Dallas Floyd Phoenix Arena, where the Phoenix Ball is held today, in memory of Dallas Floyd. Their extraordinary generosity created a lasting home for competition, celebration, and campus life — a true legacy investment in future generations.
Gilded Memories: A Note from John and Traci Pope
A note from John and Traci Pope:
“A Gilded Affair” is inspired by the rich history and enduring legacy of the Phoenix Ball. In the months leading up to the event, we will be sharing treasured photographs, stories, and memories from past celebrations, highlighting the individuals and families whose dedication has shaped this cherished tradition.
We'd like to give special recognition to Susie James, whose passion for Cumberland University history and dedication to preserving its stories have helped uncover many of the cherished photos and moments that will soon be shared.
We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, and this year is about celebrating that legacy while inviting the next generation to carry it forward. A Gilded Affair promises an evening of elegance, gratitude, and purpose — honoring the past while investing in the future.
Make sure to follow along as these stories unfold and as we celebrate the history, impact, and bright future of Cumberland University at this year’s Phoenix Ball.
Don't miss your chance to join us this year on June 6! Get your tickets today!