Heritage Committee Highlight:

Gigantic gold palm trees, exotic flower arrangements, pyramids, and even a camel made a lush atmosphere for the “Jewel of the Nile” Ball. Kay Dudley, Pam Vandever, Susie Bay, Gary Vandever, and a gentleman chat during the ball.

Heritage Committee Highlight:

Dr. James and Norma Morris, 1998 Phoenix Ball, representing a distinguished Cumberland legacy. The son of two Cumberland School of Law graduates, Dr. Morris chose a path in medicine, ultimately returning to his hometown as a respected general and vascular surgeon. Known for his skill, leadership, and forward-thinking approach, he played a meaningful role in advancing surgical care during his time, leaving a lasting impact on the health and vitality of the community he so faithfully served.

Heritage Committee Highlight:

A lively scene from the 1996 Phoenix Ball under the tent on the Cumberland University lawn, featuring Gwendolyn Ligon Davis and Raymond Davis alongside John and Billie Hatcher. The Hatchers attended in support of their son, Sam, and Teresa Hatcher, who chaired the ball that year. The Hatcher family, longtime owners of a men’s clothing store on the Lebanon Square, were known for keeping Lebanon’s gentlemen impeccably dressed – a tradition Sam proudly continues.

Heritage Committee Highlight:

A candid moment from the 1991 Phoenix Ball, capturing Jack Lowery in conversation with sisters Lisa (Johnson) Newman and Linda (Johnson) Durham, reflecting the warmth and camaraderie of the evening.

Heritage Committee Highlight:

Dancing was a pleasant pastime for this couple– Dr. Charles T. and Ruth Lowe.

Heritage Committee Highlight:

Mrs. Betty Thackston, Dr. Ed Thackston, and Mrs. Pat Bryant chat during a past Patrons’ Party. Dr. & Mrs. Joe R. Bryant were honorees of the Phoenix Ball and are the namesake of the CU Bryant Family Welcome Center.

Heritage Committee Highlight:

The lavish Egyptian decorations fit in perfectly with the Jewel of the Nile theme of a past Phoenix Ball. Large floral arrangements were placed on high wrought-iron stands for ease of conversation.

Heritage Committee Highlight:

We Saw You… At Phoenix Ball – Vondell and Jim Lancaster and Drs. Ray and Phyllis Phillips pause at the Phoenix Ball to pose for the photographer.

Heritage Committee Highlight:

A cherished tradition of the Phoenix Ball, the live auction is brought to life in these photos captured across the early 2000s. Auctioneers Jay White and the late Richard Macon are seen in action in separate moments, each skillfully engaging the crowd and infusing the evening with energy and excitement. As you enjoy these glimpses from years past, we invite you to explore this year’s featured items and experiences online and be ready to join in the excitement when the auction goes live soon!

Heritage Committee Highlight:

“Girl talk” was in order for Ann Floyd and Lois Ann Wauford at the Patrons’ Party!

Heritage Committee Highlight:

Two moments captured at the Patrons' Party on the back lawn of the Cumberland University Bone House, featuring Sid Durham and Ann Floyd. A longtime florist, Sid lent his remarkable eye and artistry to the Phoenix Ball for many years, leading the decorating committee with creativity and precision. His thoughtful vision brought each host’s chosen theme to life, transforming spaces into beautifully curated settings that defined the elegance of the evening.

Heritage Committee Highlight:

A snapshot from the 1991 Phoenix Ball where Jamie and Randy Johnson, a wonderful couple who built both a business and a life rooted in community, dance the night away! Randy faithfully served Wilson County as a local barber for more than five decades. Jamie was an original employee of Wilson Bank & Trust and is passionate about education and community service. Together, they created more than a business – they created a gathering place and lasting friendships that reflect the very heart of the Phoenix Ball.

Heritage Committee Highlight:

A joyful moment from Phoenix Ball 1991 captures Ronnie and Ottie Marks dancing the night away — a beautiful reflection of the spirit and tradition that have defined this celebration for decades.

Faithful supporters of Cumberland University, the Marks embody the heart of Phoenix Ball: community, generosity, and the joy of coming together in support of a shared mission.

Heritage Committee Highlight:

When Phoenix Ball was established 42 years ago as Wilson County's premier formal fundraiser, Bill Barry found a unique way to lend his expertise. Drawing on his career in the Big Band radio business, Bill became one of the architects of the ball's atmosphere. He personally booked the bands, ensuring that the elegance of the evening was matched by a world-class soundtrack, a tradition that helped the event become the legendary success it is today.

Though Bill and his beloved wife, Joyce, have passed away, their presence on campus is more tangible than ever. To honor their enduring commitment to Cumberland University, the Barry family established a legacy gift that transformed a vital piece of campus life. Today, students gather, study, and share meals at the Bill & Joyce Barry Bistro. It is a fitting tribute: a place of community located on the same grounds where a young Bill Barry once played ball, ensuring that the Barry name remains synonymous with the heart of Cumberland University.

Heritage Committee Highlight:

Looking back to 1994, the 10th Anniversary of the Phoenix Ball honored the patrons who attended the very first Ball in 1984.
This celebration recognized the generosity and dedication of those whose support helped build the legacy of the Phoenix Ball, a tradition that continues to make a lasting impact at Cumberland University.

Pictured from left to right: Stratton Bone, J.D. Floyd, Marty Bone, Ann Floyd, Norma Bixler, Sam Hatcher, President Charlene Cozy, Steve Cozy, Mary Clement, Bill Barry, President Bob Clement, Joyce Barry, Martha Bradshaw, Dr. James Bradshaw

Heritage Committee Highlight:

Looking back to 1996, Elizabeth and Barry Scruggs, Lynotte and Denise Moore, and Bill and Phyllis Robinson paused for a photo just before heading to the Phoenix Ball, an evening filled with tradition and celebration.

This special moment was graciously shared by the Robinson Family and reflects the spirit of community and generosity that has shaped the Phoenix Ball throughout its history.

Heritage Committee Highlight:

The groundbreaking for the Dallas Floyd Gymnasium in August 1991 marked a transformative moment for Cumberland University. Through the generosity of the Floyd and Baxter families, this gift not only made construction of the gym possible but also endowed a scholarship that continues to support students today. Their commitment to Cumberland and the community reflects the enduring legacy of the Phoenix Ball.

Pictured from left: Inza Floyd (wife of Dallas Floyd), Ann Floyd, J.D. Floyd, Billy Baxter, and Jane Baxter

Heritage Committee Highlight:

Sam and Teresa Hatcher, both Cumberland alumni, are familiar faces at the Phoenix Ball. In 1996, the couple were chairs of the event, and in 2002, they were named the Phoenix Ball’s honorees. Sam, who currently serves as Chairman of the University’s Board of Trust, has been a member of the Board since 1982.

Highlighting the University’s significance, the Hatchers said, “There’s so much in our community for which to be proud, but there’s nothing of greater value than Cumberland University, a renowned school with a distinguished history dating back to 1842. While other communities may have their treasures, few can claim a prestigious university, and we think this makes Lebanon and Wilson County particularly special.”