Born To Debate: Twin Freshmen Bring Talent to the Forensics Stage 

CEDARVILLE, OHIO – From friendly family debates at the kitchen table to competing for Cedarville University on the national stage, Cara and Zane Enos have been a team since birth.  

With their mother as their coach and their older brother competing, the twins were immersed in speech and debate from an early age. Their fascination with speech and debate created a special bond within the family from their shared dedication to the craft. 

The freshman siblings from Colorado Springs, Colorado, brought their passion and talent in communication to Cedarville University’s forensics team. Their energy and passion for excellence has proven to be a winning combination for Cedarville.   

In their first year as college students, twins Zane and Cara Enos played a pivotal role in leading Cedarville University’s forensics team to victory at the 2025 Ohio Forensics Association State Championship. 

Zane claimed first place in novice impromptu speaking, while Cara secured second-place finish in the duo competition. Zane also earned the title of state champion in impromptu speaking, and Cara distinguished herself as the state champion in after-dinner speaking, novice impromptu, novice radio broadcasting and varsity broadcasting. Additionally, she was named the reigning tournament champion at the 2025 Ohio Forensics Association State Championship. 

The twins weren’t always the best of friends. As children, they saw each other as rivals and rarely got along. Once they began competing together in speech and debate, however, they discovered a shared passion that transformed their relationship from enemies to close friends.  

“People understand that we are a package deal in speech and debate,” said Zane Enos. “We are simultaneously each other’s greatest supporter and opponent.” 

In the high-stakes world of forensics, Cara and Zane have discovered they are blessed to have one another as a source of strength and motivation.  

“We are dedicated to maintaining a high level of excellence and communicating with one another about how we are doing emotionally and spiritually,” said Cara. “Whether we face success or sudden failure on the debate stage, we are in it together because we are family.”  

As they continue to dominate in competitions nationwide, they strive to build on the forensics team’s success while fostering a sense of camaraderie on the team that reflects the strong bond they share. 

“The speech and debate community has allowed us to form genuine friendships and has become our passion for the past eight years,” Zane said. “We want to continue to give back to the community that has given us incredible opportunities.” 

Cara, a psychology major, and Zane, majoring in economics, aspire to use their speech and debate skills to become influential leaders in their respective fields. 

Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences, and professional fields. With 6,384 students, it ranks among Ohio's largest private universities and is recognized by The Wall Street Journal as being among the nation’s top three evangelical universities. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics, and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.  

Written by Jordan Foley 

Bluegrass Threads Lands in Dolly Parton's Nashville’s Songteller Hotel  

CEDARVILLE, OHIO – A simple hobby has turned into a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Cedarville University sophomore Timmy Goodman. His handcrafted embroidery pieces caught the eye of Dolly Parton’s creative director, Steve Summers, leading to a dream collaboration — Goodman’s work will soon be displayed at Parton’s upcoming Nashville hotel, Songteller, set to open in 2026.  

What began as a personal passion has flourished into Bluegrass Threads, Goodman’s thriving embroidery business specializing in portraits, home decor and apparel. With unwavering support from his family, the guidance of Cedarville’s entrepreneurship program and his deep love for country music, Goodman is proving that creativity, hard work and faith can turn even the most unexpected talents into something extraordinary. 

The Erlanger, Kentucky, student majoring in marketing at Cedarville University never imagined his love for embroidery would capture the attention of Parton’s team.  

In 2025, Summers placed an order for 12 custom pieces featuring Parton’s iconic outfits and album covers. 

“Growing up in Independence, Kentucky, Dolly Parton and country music have always been a huge part of my life,” said Goodman. “When Steve Summers told me my pieces would be displayed in Dolly’s hotel, I couldn’t believe it. I’m so thankful for this incredible opportunity.” 

Goodman’s journey into embroidery began in 2022, when he was searching for a new hobby. After discovering embroidery online, he immediately fell in love with the craft, investing countless hours learning new stitches and techniques. 

“My dad has been my biggest supporter and helped me start my business,” said Goodman. “Once, someone mocked my hobby, calling it ‘not very manly.’ My dad immediately stepped in, defending me by highlighting how unique my business is and how talented I am. His unwavering support not only fuels my confidence but also fills me with pride for what I do, no matter what others may think.” 

In February 2023, Goodman launched Bluegrass Threads, offering everything from embroidered portraits to sweatshirts, keychains, and aprons. A few months later, Goodman entered The Pitch at Cedarville University, a competition based on the popular “Shark Tank” television series and sponsored by Cedarville University Entrepreneurs (CUE). The experience helped him realize that his small side hustle could become his full-time career. 

“Cedarville University has honestly been the reason behind my success as an entrepreneur,” said Goodman. “The advice and guidance from my professors, mentors and fellow students has enabled me to take my business to new heights.” 

The connection with Parton’s team came not just from Goodman’s embroidery but also through his popular meme page, Islands in the Meme, a fun tribute to Dolly that caught the eye of her team. This led to further collaborations, including an invitation for Goodman to attend the 40th anniversary celebration of Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, on March 14. 

As Bluegrass Threads continues to grow, Goodman aims to inspire others to use their talents to glorify God, proving that creativity and faith can go hand in hand in the pursuit of success. 

For more information or to view Goodman’s creations, visit Bluegrass Threads at https://bluegrass-threads-102596.square.site/  

Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences, and professional fields. With 6,384 students, it ranks among Ohio's largest private universities and is recognized by The Wall Street Journal as being among the nation’s top three evangelical universities. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics, and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.  

Written by Jordan Foley