Hospitality and Winsomeness

It has been said that behind every great man there is a great woman. When speaking of Joyce Chamberlain, however, it’s clear that she was never “behind” anyone. Houghton Magazine recently had the privilege of speaking with Cherie Brown, wife of long-time Houghton music professor Bruce Brown and close friend of Joyce Chamberlain, to get just a small glimpse of the woman who faithfully served alongside her husband Dr. Daniel Chamberlain.

According to Cherie, Joyce “made things happen among people.” She had a gift for drawing people together, whether that be over a game of canasta, through Anna Houghton Daughters Literary Club or in hosting employees and students. Joyce, while down-to-earth and no-nonsense, dearly loved to have fun. Many Houghton student has fond memories of Mr. and Mrs. Chamberlain’s vocal performances during Homecoming, particularly the Broadway favorite “Anything You Can Do, I Can Do Better” from Annie Get Your Gun.

Joyce, in particular, lived out a special aspect of Houghton that is still observed today by those who visit campus: the welcoming atmosphere. “Everyone is so friendly,” a visitor will say. “The hospitality is remarkable.” Joyce was the quintessential hostess, bringing together groups of people who might otherwise not regularly cross paths: faculty and staff, community and college, couples and singles. Her gift of relating to anyone served her well. She worked hard to break down stereotypes, welcoming people in with good food and good fellowship, and the Houghton community still strives to emulate this quality today.

In 1998, Joyce was presented with the 10th Annual Houghton College President’s Advisory Council on Excellence Award. She was recognized for her hospitality, from baking cookies for the annual graduating seniors’ tea to flipping pancakes for employee Christmas gatherings. Her service at Houghton Wesleyan Church as an undershepherd ministering to those living on Centerville Road and on the missions committee were both noted. Even her membership on an employee intramural team – The She-Boppers – was mentioned.

Kevin Knowlton ’79, then representing the President’s Advisory Council and today a member of the Board of Trustees, said in the award citation, “We applaud your service, your spirit, your commitment to Christ and his kingdom, your love for your husband and children and grandchildren. We offer this award, both in recognition of your many accomplishments and in hopes that others will be inspired to follow your lead in service to the college and to Jesus Christ, our Lord.” In 2005, Joyce was again recognized for these wonderful qualities when she received the Alumna of the Year award, in spite of not being a Houghton graduate.

Alongside Dr. Chamberlain, Joyce raised seven children. They then set about sharing their hearts and homes with international students, going so far as to informally adopt them into their family. Today, Joyce’s life is full of beloved family members: in addition to her children and their spouses, she has 25 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren (and counting!). After many years enjoying a robust social life in Brooksville, Florida, she now lives near family in Ocean Springs, Mississippi.

“Joyce was the best friend I could have ever had,” remarks Cherie. “She was a wonderful role model, an exemplary Christian, and a supportive wife.” Anyone who knows Joyce would no doubt share these sentiments. A beloved member of the Houghton community, Joyce’s legacy of hospitality and winsomeness remains a hallmark of the institution we know and love today.