The Daily Times

A Maryville College junior who has already made an impact on campus will soon set his sights on a larger theater of operations.

U.S. Coast Guard reservist Morgan “Mo” Stepp, 33, has been called to active duty. He is being deployed to the Middle East.

Stepp, who previously served five years on active duty, is a tactical coxswain. The petty officer first class commands a 25-foot armed response boat.

The Townsend resident has attended Maryville College for two years.

In that time, he has made an impact in many aspects of campus life. The environmental studies major has worked on Mountain Challenge’s staff and served as a peer mentor.

Stepp has also acquitted himself in the classroom.

“He’s an above-average student who was a leader in each class that I’ve had him,” said Dr. Mark O’Gorman, associate professor of political science. “People gravitate toward him and ask him questions about assignments and papers. He’s almost like a second teacher.”

“He’s an outstanding student,” said Dr. Susan Ambler, associate professor of sociology. “It’s going to be a real disappointment to lose him. He’s made strong contributions in class and brought a more mature perspective. He’s also shown leadership in every way. He’s going to be a great loss to this community, at least temporarily.”

Students also recognized Stepp’s contributions.

Sam Jackson, Maryville College’s former Student Government Association president, met Stepp through their Appalachian Studies courses. “He fits in well at Maryville College. He’s a dedicated person, who meets the college’s mission and works for justice.”

“His presence will be missed,” added Russ Porter, who has worked with Stepp at Mountain Challenge. “He brought a sense of levity. He has a really good sense of humor and good attitude about everything.”

Student humbled

Maryville College students, staff and faculty honored Stepp during a reception Monday.

Stepp was humbled by the recognition. “It’s a nice feeling, but it’s hard for me to articulate my thoughts and feelings about it,” he said. “It was an unexpected show of appreciation.”

Stepp attended three postsecondary institutions — Lee University, Chattanooga State and Savannah Technical College — before Maryville College. He has also completed training with the Coast Guard Institute.

“Maryville College has been a great fit for me,” he said. “I’ve enjoyed being here more than all three schools combined. I can’t wait to come back, get enrolled and spend more time with my friends.”

Stepp hopes to re-enroll after completing at least 10 months of active duty.

He is also looking forward to spending time with his wife, Jessica. She works at Smoky Mountain Gastroenterology located in Blount Memorial Hospital.

“We’ve never been to a school that showed this much care and thoughtfulness,” said Jessica Stepp. “In fact, I don’t know many schools that would support their students this much. I’d really like to thank the college for supporting our family and country.”

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