Wave Magazine - Spring 2007

d Friends, Greetings JU Alumni an ksonville University is I’m proud to say that Jac ogress in key ways. making a great deal of pr s are launching, existing Innovative new program contemporar y residence programs are expanding, any improvements are halls are being built – m rrent students, alumni being made to benefit cu large. and the JU community at w reflected in a new This transformation is no Magazine is now look for our magazine. JU many JU graduates called The Wave. With so n way, The Wave will making waves in their ow the accomplishments of focus more attention on s, while still telling the current and past student tors. d our dedicated benefac stories of our faculty, an

President Kerry Romesburg

ries, as well as include more detailed sto ll wi e rag ve co ni m alu across Our expanded a number of gatherings s ze ni ga or JU n. tio sec w an improved Class Notes d by the photos in our ne ate str illu as try un co e th your alma the state and around rtunity to reconnect with po op an r fo ok Lo n. tio Alumni Events sec mater. pe you enjoy it! the JU community, I ho t ou ab is e in az ag m is Th Sincerely,

dent Kerry Romesburg, Presi

J A C K S O N V I L L E

U N I V E R S I T Y

THE WAVE A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNI & FRIENDS

A E R O N A U T I C S

REACHING NEW HEIGHTS DISCIPLINE & DEDICATION CREW CELEBRATES 50 YEARS BELL SIGNALS CHANGE FOR DOLPHINS FOOTBALL SALUTING NROTC

VOLUME 32

SPRING 2007

Who Made an IMPACT in Your Life?

Marilyn Repsher

Betty Winstead

Ken Hoover Ted Allen

Joseph Haygood

Make a gift to the Annual Fund in their honor and impact another student’s life.

www.ju.edu/giving

Terry Alexander

THE WAVE

contents

A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNI & FRIENDS

VOLUME 10 • NUMBER 2 www.ju.edu PUBLISHER EDITOR ASSISTANT EDITORS DESIGNER PUBLICATIONS MANAGER CLASS NOTES CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Kerry D. Romesburg Traci Mysliwiec Derek Hall Olga Bayer Christopher Layton Robin Bangert-Lenard Patricia Reeves laird

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Tonia Kimbrough Casey Hampton Joel Lamp

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS

The Design Lounge Robin Bangert-Lenard

MAIN NUMBER ADMISSIONS

(904) 256-8000 (904) 256-7000 admissions@ju.edu

ALUMNI

(904) 256-7201 alumni@ju.edu

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(904) 256-7045 dhall3@ju.edu

REGISTRAR

(904) 256-7091 cbarret@ju.edu

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(904) 256-7021 dyazbec@ju.edu

PUBLISHED SEMI-ANNUALLY BY CHANGE OF ADDRESS TO

University Marketing & Communications Office Institutional Advancement Jacksonville University 2800 University Blvd. N. Jacksonville, FL 32211-3394

COVER

4 AERONAUTICS: Set for New Heights of Success

By Tonia Cook Kimbrough ¥ Photos by laird

JU’s Aeronautics program is expanding to give students even more options and better experience to improve their positioning for jobs after graduation. Working with the Delta Connection Academy, the program provides students opportunities to be among the most qualified graduates in the industry.

F E AT U R E S

8 CREW AT JU Unparalleled Dedication & Discipline

By Traci Mysliwiec ¥ Photos by laird

11 PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP Saluting NROTC Alums

By Olga Bayer

15 OTIS SMITH Q & A Moves Up Corporate Ladder But Remembers His Roots 35 COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS Celebrates 45th Anniversary

By Casey Hampton ¥ Photos by laird

JACKSONVILLE UNIVERSITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES John E. Anderson Ron A. Autrey, ’01 Walter P. Bussells Michael Cascone, Jr., ’65 Kevin F. Delaney L. Buck Fowler Wayne Galloway J. Phillip Garcia, ’90 John M. Godfrey Y. E. Hall John G. Harrison, ’67 David C. Hodges, Jr., ’03 Michael Howland, ’76 Cyrus M. Jollivette Matt Kane, ’01 Bruce Kern Timothy Mann Raymond K. Mason, Jr., ’78

Michael J. McKenny F. Andrew Moran, ’78 Victoria Mussallem, ’98 Anne P. Nimnicht Frank Pace, ’73 Timothy D. Payne Gil Pomar, Jr. Fred G. Pruitt, ’69, ’85 Kerry D. Romesburg John A. “Sandy” Semanik, ’72 Mike Shad, ’85 Linda Berry Stein, ’69 Mary Virginia Terry Keith Watson, ’71 Lisa Strange Weatherby Terry L. Wilcox Carolyn Munro Wilson, ’69, ’77, ’89 Charles J. O. Wodehouse

All contents © COPYRIGHT 2007 Jacksonville University. All rights reserved.

New Head Football Coach Kerwin Bell See page 23

D E PA R T M E N T S

17 NEWS 23 SPORTS 27 ALUMNI NEWS 30 ALUMNI EVENTS 32 CLASS NOTES

4 The Wave | Spring 2007

SET FOR NEW HEIGHTS OF SUCCESS BY

TONIA

COOK

KIMBROUGH

ichael Timmerman (top right) put himself on course for success when he chose Jacksonville University’s aeronautics program for his pilot training, and now this senior’s career is ready to take flight. “I have been afforded opportunities that I never thought possible,” he says, noting his current employment piloting a corporate aircraft for a local law firm. “I was referred to this job by Captain Simon, an adjunct professor at JU, and am building valuable experience in the corporate aviation world.Without the relationships and education JU provided, I never would have dreamed I could be employed getting paid for something I enjoy so much.”

M

• PHOTOS

BY

L AIRD

Timmerman’s experience is just a glimpse of what JU’s program provides students. For a fuller picture, you must first understand the scope of the curriculum. JU’s Aeronautics Program in the Davis College of Business has been preparing students for careers in the aviation industry for more than two decades. In 1996, JU established a one-of-a-kind training partnership with Delta Connection Academy (DCA), a subsidiary of Delta Air Lines, working with the training center to educate and train future airline pilots. Students in the program earn a four-year business degree, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certificates and ratings and, for those who qualify, a guaranteed interview with a regional airline. More than 98 percent of those who interview get hired by the airlines.

“Jacksonville University produces the highest quality professional graduates in the industry.”

The Wave | Spring 2007 5

What first attracted Timmerman to JU is the affiliation with DCA, and the school’s reputation as a private college where teacher/student relationships are more personable.“I’ve benefited from this partnership extensively by making some of the best friends I have ever had and professional contacts that I will keep for life,”Timmerman said.“Delta Connection has the reputation for producing some of the best professional pilots, and coupled with the knowledge and professional experience of the University staff, they form an alliance that ultimately is the best education for the aspiring professional pilot.”

Now the aeronautics program is positioned for even greater successes since DCA announced the purchase of 50 Cirrus SR20 aircraft (right) for use at the flight school.The Cirrus SR20 is the most technologically advanced primary trainer aircraft in the world, providing students a realistic, airline-style flight training environment.

One of its main features is a fullyintegrated electronic instrument display system (better known as a “glass cockpit”) coupled with Global Positioning System (GPS) and autopilot capabilities.

To fully take advantage of the new technology, DCA is completely redesigning the FAA-approved flight training curriculum. At the core of the new program will be FAA-approved “scenario-based” training to help students develop better decision-making skills, in addition to basic piloting skills. DCA is also adding state-of-the-art simulators (top right).These are so realistic that the FAA, after proper approval, will allow the academy to significantly increase the use of simulators in the program, improving the efficiency and decreasing the costs of training.

Because the new training devices require a lot of space, DCA is in the process of building a new facility at Craig Airport.The new Cirrus airplanes, FITS curriculum, simulators and facility should be in place by spring 2008.

6 The Wave | Spring 2007

Dr. Juan Merkt, director of the JU aeronautics program (center top), can hardly contain his excitement when speaking of the change ahead. He has seen the relationship between DCA and JU flourish, yielding even more opportunities for students during his tenure as the program’s director.

“It’s a match made in heaven,” he says, noting the program’s growth from a mere 15 students in the mid-1990s to more than 200 majors and minors today.The success, he stresses, comes from the innovative pairing of an aviation industry partner with an academic curriculum.

The JU and DCA partnership was the first of its kind within the airline industry.Today, there are only a few similar programs in the United States. “It is becoming the standard path for nonengineering

careers in the aviation industry. Airlines want pilots with flying skills and business communication skills as well as a broad-based education,” Merkt explains. “The fact that aviation is a part of the JU College of Business is very important. A business background can help a pilot move up in the ranks of a major carrier to become a check pilot or a chief pilot.”

Indeed, the partnership between JU and DCA produces a program focused on the needs of the airline industry: on-time performance; high quality simulation, Crew Resource Management, Line Oriented Flight Training, and glass cockpit training are just a few examples of current issues in the air travel industry.

In today’s marketplace, a four-year degree is typically preferred for pilot candidates. In fact, it is an absolute requirement to be employed as a pilot by any of the major carriers. “Jacksonville University produces the highest quality professional graduates in the industry. The combination of the four-year degree from JU and the Delta Connection Academy training yields the most qualified candidates in the industry,” says Larry Wade, director of training at DCA. It takes more than training, however, to be a good pilot.Wade also finds important, less tangible qualities in JU graduates that make the partnership a success. He describes JU students as professional on and off the flight line, demonstrating a strong work ethic and attention to detail. His opinion is shaped in large part from the positive feedback he receives from the airlines who hire JU graduates.

Brent Knoblauch is a JU sophomore, earning a double major in aviation operations and political science. He is exactly the kind of student that gives Wade such confidence in JU. Knoblauch’s ultimate professional goal is to be a regional airline pilot. To that end, he is active in numerous extracurricular activities that relate to his ambitions. He is the lead director of Aviation Ambassadors at JU, an organization of flight students that gives tours to prospective students and their families at the airport. He also holds leadership positions on JU’s Flight Team and in Alpha Omicron Alpha, an aeronautical honor society.

The chance to receive quality, professional flight training in conjunction with a strong liberal arts education attracted Knoblauch to JU. “The idea that I could earn all my pilot certifications, graduate with a bachelor’s degree in business and politics, and be guaranteed an interview with the airlines is incredible,” said Knoblauch. “Seeing those dreams come to fruition is the best way I could think to spend my four years in college.”

Knoblauch illustrated how the opportunities for professional experience merge with education by describing the day he received his certification. “A case in point actually occurred a few days ago when I earned my Commercial Pilot Certificate. At 7 a.m., I hopped in the plane with an FAA examiner and by 9 a.m. I was officially a commercial pilot.

After receiving a few congratulations on my way out the door, my instructor asked me, ‘What are you going to do to celebrate?’Without hesitation I said, ‘I have a midterm in microeconomics in 50 minutes, so I’ll probably study.”

Emilie Howland, a junior at JU, (top right) is working on her certified flight instructor certificate.

With a major in aviation management/flight operations, and a minor in economics, she aims to keep her professional options varied.“My ultimate career goal remains to be seen. I believe in keeping my mind open to lots of professions that could branch off of aviation,” she says.“I think that the students who come from JU are a bit different because they come away with a more well-rounded education.We get a business degree, and we go to a [liberal] arts school that offers much more than aviation.We are able to balance a regular college atmosphere with an aeronautic major. I also believe that we have different training simply because of the great personalities that we get to work with. Specifically, the professors at JU are real individuals, and their passion for flying – and their students – is hard to find. I think JU is able to offer more diversity than many of the other aviation schools.”

Ever intent on staying abreast of what the aviation industry needs, JU is in the process of seeking accreditation of its aviation undergraduate program and creating an aviation MBA program to provide graduate level education for pilots and aviation managers. Increasingly, major airlines prefer pilots with an MBA.Today approximately 25 to 30 percent of pilots have completed graduate-level studies. It’s just another indication of the heights this program aspires to achieve. Keep your eye on the future of JU Aeronautics.

The Wave | Spring 2007 7

CREW AT JU UNPARALLED DEDICATION & DISCIPLINE:

BY TRACI MYSLIWIEC

ising before the sun, a group of student-athletes make their way to a dock on the St. Johns River. Teams of four and eight glide out into the peaceful waterway in turn. The quiet morning is broken only by the sound of oars dipping into the water and the voices of the coxswains, who call out instructions to the crews and scan the water for dolphins and shrimp boats.

R

Displaying extreme discipline and dedication, these athletes practice six days a week, putting in 3000 strokes a year.

Jacksonville University’s crew program is a clear expression of what the University does best – inspiring students to reach within themselves to attain new levels of excellence. JU has established a strong tradition that has taken the University’s rowers to Egypt, Peru and even to the famous Royal Henley Regatta in England.

Since “Tiger”Tim Tyler brought rowing to JU in 1956, the program has been a distinguished part of the University’s history and heritage.

8 The Wave | Spring 2007

As JU commemorates the 50th anniversary of the rowing program, what better way to celebrate and honor that tradition than to build a new Rowing Center to help vault the entire program to the next level.The building will also house the Brooks Adaptive Rowing program (see sidebar), the first city-assisted exercise facility for the disabled.

One of JU’s most distinguished rowers and a tireless fundraiser for the program, Brad Negaard, ’75, recalls how the level of dedication and discipline required for crew helped strengthen his character.

“Rowing creates a commitment to be your best. I can never pay back what the program gave me in terms of character building,” said Negaard. “I want the students competing in crew to experience what I did and if they can even get a fraction of that, then the whole program is worth it.”

Rowing demands a tremendous amount of practice for the individual rowers to learn to move as one unit.

The high demand gives an extraordinary payoff in

what Negaard calls “horsepower” in personality. “I learned about not giving up until I got it right – not just in crew – but taking that attitude into business, marriage, life in general. Not settling for mediocre,” Negaard explained. “Horsepower in personality is learning how to handle more than you think you can.

That’s what rowing teaches you.”

In each generation of students taking up the challenge of crew, the theme of dedication runs deep. Lauren Calhoun, ’05, was a crew athlete all four years at JU. She remembers what it was like to be part of something bigger than just herself. “Everyone has to work as one on the water, one person not giving their all or having a bad day hinders the whole boat,” Calhoun said. “As a product of this kind of environment, I hold everyone accountable for their actions...no one more so than myself.”

Audrey Sefton, a senior, is not only grateful for the values she’s learned, she’s also appreciative of the great friendships that developed. “Although getting up before sunrise six days a week was never what I planned for college, not only has being on crew taught me discipline with rigorous daily practices before dawn, but it’s also taught me the true value of ‘team,’ cooperation and responsibility,” Sefton said. “I have seen the results of hard work while having fun, traveling and making great memories and friends.”

Negaard notes that the determination instilled in the crew is demonstrated by what they achieve off the water. “There are three things crew gives the school.

The students that are part of crew stay all four years and graduate; they have the top GPAs in school as a group, and they are the largest single group in giving back to JU,” said Negaard.

After learning about the sport in 1972 when Negaard came to JU, he thought it looked relaxing and gave himself two weeks to try it out. “Here I am 34 years later, it has meant that much to me.” Negaard is now seeing his dream come true in the construction of a new boat house.

In 1956, the original home of crew at JU was little more than a shack and the only equipment they had was four wooden shells.The Russell Boat House, built in 1966 to accommodate a men’s squad of roughly 30 student-athletes, was designed to store 10 boats and only featured a men’s locker room.

With the addition of the women’s team in 1972, the Boat House became home to more than 50 athletes with the same minimal facilities. Always competitive, the squad has increased to more than 90 studentathletes in recent years. During this rapid growth period, the program has suffered some growing pains due to the limitations of the current structure.

To support the successes of the men’s and women’s programs, the community, JU and rowing supporters are coming together to build a new state-of-the-art training facility.This new center will alleviate those limitations and allow the program to become even more competitive and more attractive to prospective The Wave | Spring 2007 9

Brooks Adaptive Rowing Program student-athletes who want to continue their rowing career at the collegiate level.

“The new rowing center will make an exponential difference for the team. First, it will allow us to grow as a program, both in numbers and in competitiveness. It’s also a great attraction for recruits,” said Jim Mitchell, head coach of rowing. “The rowing center is being built with the rowers in mind. It will have more boat space, office space and workout space, along with study and leisure areas.”

Those who have experienced a disabling injury or illness will soon have a new athletic outlet – adaptive rowing. Brooks Rehabilitation is partnering with JU to develop an adaptive rowing program on campus in the new rowing center. Adaptive rowing programs exist around the world, most notably in England, but only a few programs exist in the United States. This will be the only adaptive program in the southeast United States and can serve as a training center for the U.S. paralympics.

It will provide people with disabilities the opportunity to experience rowing on the beautiful St. Johns River. “Adaptive rowing is a unique source of physical activity that can be beneficial in a rehabilitative, recreational or competitive way for those with orthopedic or sensory impairments,” said James Mitchell, head rowing coach at JU. “We are excited to develop this program to be able to give access to the city’s greatest natural resource, the St. Johns River, to people who may not have previously had access.”

and the opportunity for further success on the water,” she said. “The new boathouse will provide the opportunity for greater focus during workouts. The study areas and separate locker rooms for men and women will also minimize the rush to get off the water to go home in order to study and shower before morning classes.”

The current crew has been building their own success, even working within the limitations of the current facilities. “Last spring we won The city of Jacksonville is also partnering 5 state championships, had 3 with JU and Brooks to develop this program.

The Rowing Center will boats medal at the Southern Training activities for the adaptive rowing provide an opportunity for Intercollegiate Championships program will begin in the fall of 2007 with an alumni to work out and row and our Men’s Varsity 8 had emphasis on spending time on the water on the equipment. Outfitted the second highest finish ever learning and developing rowing skills. with the latest technology, the at Dad Vails in JU history (JU headquarters will be wireless placed 8th in 2006),” said and include a practice video area so rowers can see Mitchell. “This fall our Men’s Lightweight 8 won the how they’re doing from a different perspective.There second biggest fall race in the country - Head of the will also be a recreational lounge with ping-pong, pool Hooch.” and air hockey tables.

Recalling her favorite memory of her time as part of With the growth that has taken place during the four crew, Calhoun remembers the sound of the oars. “No years Sefton has been rowing, workouts have become question about it,” she said. “As eight blades exit and less efficient. “Our team has certainly outgrown the enter the water together in perfect rhythm, there is current facility and the new additions will provide the nothing in the world that is as gratifying as that necessary room, allowing for more efficient practices sound.”

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP:

SALUTING NROTC ALUMS

BY OLGA BAYER

S

ince the first Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) graduating class at Jacksonville University in 1975, the unit has turned out a significant number of military officers who have risen through the ranks to assume top leadership positions all over the world.

These men and women have served their country willingly and devotedly – often putting themselves in harm’s way.

Besides a strong sense of patriotism, each possesses a great sense of humor, a moral compass based on mutual respect for others, and a passion for their chosen career.

The Wave | Spring 2007 11

Finding the Balance

As the USS John C. Stennis steams over the deepest spot on the planet – nearly seven miles to the ocean floor in the Philippine Sea – Capt. Bradley Johanson, commanding officer of the aircraft carrier, warns his crew of 3,000 men and women, “Now would not be a good time for a swim.”

With wit and wisdom, Johanson, BS ’80, has been taking the lead since he graduated as a commissioned officer through NROTC at JU. In May 2006, Johanson took command of the Stennis and was honored by what he called the “culminating point of my 30 years in the service.”

Johanson describes his Navy career as “fun, diverse, exciting and filled with opportunities.” First an aviator, then as a test pilot, he compared his job to riding every ride at Universal Studios. He was sent to Saudi Arabia as the lead planner for Tomahawk cruise missiles during the Gulf War, and orchestrated flight operations in Somalia after the Black Hawk Down incident.

On the Pentagon’s Crisis Action Team, Johanson briefed Secretary Cheney and General Colin Powell during Operation Desert Storm. The Navy then invited him to study nuclear engineering, and as commanding officer of the USS Denver he hosted the king of Jordan.

Johanson left a larger university to come to JU. “You could say JU was the catapult shot that launched this aircraft,” he said. “The small environment and professors made a huge difference. The officers in charge of the NROTC unit were approachable, wonderful mentors.”

Johanson went on to receive his master’s degree, graduating with distinction from the Naval War College.

Johanson’s canon for life is all about finding the right balance. He speaks of sailors needing to balance their lives at home and at sea to avoid burnout; the delicate balance of the United States sowing global peace through strong deterrence; balancing the individual missions of each crew member within a competitive environment; and maintaining a balanced and objective approach that defines his management style as one of “empowerment and trust.”

Surpassing Expectations

When Capt. Norma Lee Hackney came to JU in 1976, she had two years of college under her belt, and was

12 The Wave | Spring 2007

thinking about “giving up” on school. But Hackney “refocused” on her education and enrolled for a semester at JU. She later applied for a two-year NROTC scholarship and as Hackney, BS ’78, likes to say, “The rest is history.”

Hackney joined NROTC shortly after women were allowed. She not only found her niche in the Navy, she made history as the first woman to command a U.S. Navy amphibious assault ship, the USS Saipan, in a war zone.

Hackney’s proudest moments came as commanding officer aboard the USS Willamette and USS Saipan. In both instances, facing insurmountable ship repairs, she rallied her crew and – against all odds – made critical deployments on schedule. “When the crew comes together, great things happen,” said Hackney.

It’s no wonder Hackney’s crew continued to pull off the seemingly impossible time and again. She wrote her doctoral dissertation on leadership and said, “It simply boils down to building relationships on trust and mutual respect.”

At JU Hackney was “treated like a person, not just a number.” NROTC offered her a lot of one on one attention. “It’s a great program that provided counseling and support,” she said. “It wasn’t just marching…we got the total picture. I did softball, glassblowing and pottery.

NROTC provided the vehicle to do whatever we wanted to make us well-rounded.”

Serving with Passion

Rear Adm. John P. Cryer was JU’s first NROTC graduate to attain the rank of flag officer – a rank nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate.

Cryer, BS ’76, served 29 years in the Navy before retiring in 2005, and becoming the Director of Navy and Marine Corps Programs with Northrop Grumman Corporation. He manages the aviation programs, and deals with the Pentagon, Office of the Secretary of Defense and Capitol Hill on a daily basis.

Describing his military career as a “hoot,” Cryer said, “I’ve worked on the Joint Staff… briefed the Vice President in the White House Situation Room…gone to War College in D.C. and Rhode Island, flown in the Pacific Northwest… and traveled all over. You know the saying, ‘Join the Navy and see the world,’ well, it’s true.”

As deputy commander for the Joint Task Force Southwest Asia, Cryer conducted military operations in

Afghanistan right after 9/11. “I was very proud to have directly contributed to those combat operations and made a difference,” he said.

Cryer came to JU from Key West. “One of the most positive experiences in my life was the four years I spent at JU,” said Cryer. “The school is intimate, and I developed friends who I stay close with to this day. I got the total spectrum of education. I had to take physics and calculus, and they were quite rigorous. It wasn’t a piece of cake.”

Strengthening Partnerships

Another flag officer and one of the highest naval intelligence officers currently serving in the U.S. Navy is Rear Adm. David J. “Jack” Dorsett, Director for Intelligence ( J2), Joint Staff. Dorsett, BS ’78, was born in North Carolina, raised in Virginia, and graduated from JU to begin his career as an exchange midshipman with the Royal Navy.

After many tour duties, Dorsett’s subsequent operation assignments included sensitive, nationally tasked combat and special operations, and command of the Joint Intelligence Center, U.S. Central Command.

Dorsett was the Director for Intelligence, U.S. Pacific Command, during the tsunami relief operations, and in the article, Tsunami! Information sharing in the wake of destruction, he wrote, “We must continue to strengthen partnerships across the national intelligence community with both allies and nongovernmental organizations” Dorsett is also a joint specialty officer, a specialist in joint and strategic intelligence, and a qualified surface warfare officer. He possesses significant experience in national security affairs (Europe, the Middle East) and in strategic planning. He graduated with distinction from the U.S. Naval War College and Armed Forces Staff College, and was awarded a master’s degree from the Defense Intelligence College.

Keeping Connected

Capt. Matthew W. Tuohy arrived from Brooklyn in the fall of 1971 as a member of JU’s first NROTC class. After graduating as an ensign, Tuohy, BS ’75, became a naval flight officer, and after numerous assignments, was appointed commanding officer of the aircraft carrier, USS Kitty Hawk.

Tuohy said the proudest moment of his career was actually “giving up” command of the Kitty Hawk. “After 18 months, I was very proud of the fact that the crew had done absolutely everything that was asked of us without any serious accidents or injuries. It was about finishing well…and it was very gratifying that I could participate with a group of people who were so professional,” he said.

When Tuohy came to JU, the Viet Nam War was winding down and many universities were closing their NROTC units. He took a chance on JU – “it’s Florida, how bad can it be?” – and discovered after his first year that he’d made a wise decision.

“Being in a liberal arts institution, I developed the skills to be successful. The personal attention by Ph.D. professors who know your progress – and whether you’re in class or not – helps you develop responsibility,” said Tuohy.

Tuohy, a graduate of the College of Naval Command and Staff and the Armed Forces Staff College, holds three master’s degrees – from Salve Regina University, the Naval War College and Jacksonville University.

Retired from active duty, Tuohy maintains his Navy connections through his job for Dynamics Research Corporation, and as vice president for the Navy League Jacksonville Council. He has close ties to JU, where he was director of Aviation for nearly three years, and currently serves on the JU Alumni Board of Governors.

Tuohy was the fundraising chairman for the NROTC facility that opened in 2004, and said, “For every young American that raises a hand to enlist, we owe them good leaders. The best way to do that is to have a properly trained officer corps and in my mind the NROTC is as good as the Naval Academy – if not better.”

The Wave | Spring 2007 13

NROTC: Developing Leaders for Tomorrow

Juggling Success

Cmdr. Becky Lince followed in her older sister’s footsteps to join the Navy – just not in the same way. “I saw what my sister went through at the Naval Academy in Annapolis and I said, ‘No way.’ I wanted the college life, that’s why JU was right for me,” she said.

An active reservist, Lince, BS ’90, is currently earning her master’s degree at the Air War College at Maxwell Air Force Base.

As an undergraduate from Wisconsin, she chose JU for its “excellent” marine science program, NROTC and for a “winter down south.”

Lince most recently served as commander (operational support officer/total source program manger) at the Naval Meterology and Oceanography Command at the Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. But it was as a lieutenant commander in Rota, Spain, where she first learned about leadership.

Discounting the stereotypical belief that a woman has to be hard to prove she knows more, Lince said, “If you treat people with respect, they will respect you. Gaining respect opens up communications and allows creativity to flow, and that makes for a good working environment.”

Unsure where her next assignment will be, Lince said moving constantly has made her a more flexible person, a necessary trait when juggling a dual Navy career family with three daughters.

“Bringing my family life and professional life together makes me proud,” said Lince, who met her husband, Cmdr. Matthew Lince, BS ’91, when they were both NROTC students at JU. Lince keeps up with JU classmates and members from her “tight knit” NROTC unit. “I know it sounds corny but I grew up there and I definitely learned how to be responsible,” she said. “I tried a sorority, but I felt closer in NROTC. It was a family.”

Besides the intimate setting at JU, Lince liked the way students and staff interacted and worked together. “President Kinne was just so involved with the students,” she said. “It felt like you had a mom looking over you if you needed help. To me, that was fabulous.”

Photos - Page 11: (l-r) Rear Adm. Kevin Quinn, Capt. David H. Buss and Capt.

Bradley Johanson render honors at USS Stennis change of command ceremony. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 3rd Class Ronald Reeves. Page 12: (left) Capt.

Norma Lee Hackney; (center) Capt. Bradley Johanson launches from Stennis flight deck in F/A-18F Super Hornet. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jon Hyde; (right) Rear Adm. John P. Cryer. Page 13: (left) Rear Adm. David J. “Jack” Dorsett. Dept. of Defense photo; (center) Flight operations aboard Stennis. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jon Hyde; (right) Capt. Matthew Tuohy in F-14. Page 14: Cmdr. Rebecca Lince. Photo

by David Robertson Studio; (top right & sidebar) JU NROTC students.

14 The Wave | Spring 2007

Capt. James Pendley, commanding officer of JU’s NROTC, said the mission of a NROTC unit is to develop midshipmen and officer candidates mentally, morally and physically to serve as commissioned officers in the United States Navy and the United States Marine Corps.

NROTC at JU is no exception; however, the program does offer some exceptional benefits to students – namely, a challenging, well-rounded education, a state-of-the-art NROTC facility with a new obstacle course, and most importantly, a great location in a receptive naval community.

Maj. Timothy Kornacki, BS ’91, returned to JU as the marine officer instructor for the unit, and explained, “JU and NROTC are like a crossroads for the Navy and Marine Corps. You have Jacksonville Naval Air Station, Mayport, Blount Island and King’s Bay nearby.” That naval proximity translates to more hands-on opportunities for NROTC students to tour ships, visit the bases and see how active duty members operate on a day-to-day basis.

With a battalion ranging from 130 to 200 students each year, the program continues to turn out future leaders. Kornacki said, “They aren’t leaders right here and now. We’re looking for demonstrated leadership potential. Everyone needs to have what we call ‘the fire within’… the desire to serve. You start with that foundation, then what it really comes down to is being willing to be part of something much larger than themselves.”

The students take part in a rigorous program and are given an ever-increasing amount of responsibility. “The battalion leads itself, with minimum input from active duty staff here on campus. That is how we develop leaders for tomorrow’s Navy and Marine Corps,” said Pendley. “We are very appreciative of the support that we receive from JU, and we are very proud of our service to our country, and of our oath to support and defend the constitution.”

Otis Smith

Moves Up Corporate Ladder But Remembers His Roots

Born and raised in Jacksonville, and a 1986 graduate of Jacksonville University, Otis Smith has left his mark on the First Coast. An athletics four-letter winner at JU, Smith led the Dolphins to the Sun Belt Conference title and the NCAA tournament in 1986.

After his college days ended, Smith moved on to play in the NBA for Orlando, Denver and Golden State. He created a foundation in his name during his professional playing career, and continues to serve on the board of trustees.

Following his retirement from the NBA, Smith served as community relations manager for the Orlando Magic for two years. During that time, the organization was presented the Pro Team Community Award, given by the World Sports Humanitarian Hall of Fame. He was also vice president of marketing and community relations of the Boys and Girls Club of Central Florida.

Smith spent the 2002-03 season as executive director of basketball operations for the Golden State Warriors. During the previous two-plus seasons, Smith was director of community relations for the Warriors Foundation. On May 3, 2006, Smith was promoted to general manager of the Orlando Magic. Smith was assistant general manager during the 2005-06 campaign, after serving as director of player development for two seasons.

Q:

Your professional basketball career got a big springboard from your collegiate career at JU, culminating in the Dolphins going to the NCAA Tournament in 1986. You were a big part of the rebuilding process in the early 80s that saw JU become dominant again. Then, you made it to the pros and became part of a rebuilding process in Orlando. Were there a lot of similarities to the situations?

A:

The biggest thing is you have to start somewhere, regardless where the team was the year before. In order to build something, you have to start with a foundation. When I was at Jacksonville, I was a part of the foundation. Here we’ve got Jameer (Nelson) and Dwight (Howard) and we’re building around them.

Q: A:

You had a very long and successful career, spending most of it with the Magic. What do you feel was the best moment of your playing career?

On the court, it would be scoring the game-winning bucket against Chicago at home. In general, you can’t put a price tag on the people you meet in this business. I think that’s what the young players take for granted. For me, it’s more the people.

When I think back to high school and college, it was the coaches.

In the pros, it was the coaches, players and teammates. Chris Mullin and Rod Higgins with the Warriors, those are guys that I still remain friends with. I still talk to my college teammates and those relationships mean more to me than anything that happened on the court.

Q: A:

After your playing career, you moved to the management side with the Magic, working your way up to your current position as general manager. Was it your goal to become the GM one day?

I believe in asking for what you want. I believe in writing it down and putting it in a place to see every day. I wanted to be the The Wave | Spring 2007 15

general manager of an NBA franchise and worked every day towards that goal.

I started on the business side of basketball and I’ve done just about everything – from business to scouting, player personnel to community outreach – and developed a working knowledge of each area.

Q:

Since you’ve taken over as GM, you’ve revitalized the team and are in the midst of a tight race to make the playoffs this season. What has been the biggest difference moving over from assistant GM to GM?

A:

The biggest difference is you’re responsible for everything. I work with Dave Twardzik on scouting and Brian Hill on coaching, but it comes back to me putting a team on the floor that the community can be proud of.

Understanding your role is key – I am the steward of an NBA team that the community and ownership can be proud of. If you do that, everything else will take care of itself.

Q: A:

When you evaluate players, do you draw from your past experience as a player?

The first thing I look at is do they play hard. Everything else you can teach. If they come to work hard and play hard, you’ve got a chance. You can’t teach guys to work hard. I like guys who come from winning programs and know how to win – they are going to rise to the top.

I think we have to start talking about the word “championship” in sports – that is what it is about, not me. It’s about being winners – let’s say it out loud. We just have to get our young guys to think about that every day. I started talking about championships the day I got the job and I haven’t stopped. I don’t talk about making the playoffs, because to win the championship, you have to be in playoffs.

Q:

Since you started the Otis Smith Foundation in 1989, you’ve been able to reach out and help a lot of disadvantaged children in Northeast Florida. Now, some 18 years later, you’re still a driving force behind it and its outreach to thousands of kids.

You’ve already been able to accomplish a lot of things, but now what are your goals for the Foundation?

A:

It started out with just wanting to help people and that remains the focus of the foundation today. To get people to help themselves and get other people to help them. There are a lot of young people in Jacksonville struggling to make it and we stepped in to help. Education is the key. We have to hang our hat on that. This whole thing is bigger than me. (See sidebar)

Q: A:

Being a native of Jacksonville and a star player here at JU, how much does the University and the basketball program mean to you?

You want to see JU back on top, and JU alumni and fans to be back. You want to say that your team is the conference champ and that they have had success after you left. The people in Jacksonville deserve JU basketball to be at the top again.

16 The Wave | Spring 2007

Making a Difference in a Big Way The Otis Smith Kids Foundation was founded in 1989 as a means to improve the quality of life and outlook for the future of deserving Northeast Florida elementary school children. The foundation provides programs and services to hundreds of disadvantaged children each year in the areas of education, life skills development and personal growth. For nearly 18 years, the not-for-profit organization has touched the lives of thousands of Jacksonville-area children, providing opportunities for them to learn, grow and achieve.

In 2006, the foundation organized a fundraising event, Big Cats for Kids, replicating the wildly successful Sea Cows for Kids project the foundation sponsored in 2004. More than 50 Big Cats were decorated by participating First Coast artists. The nearly nine-foot long Big Cats were installed in public places throughout Jacksonville and Northeast Florida.

In a collaborative effort with The Stellar Group – a design, engineering and construction firm in Jacksonville – faculty and students from JU’s College of Fine Arts, created a Big Cat for the fundraiser. Dana Chapman Tupa, chair of Visual Arts, said more than 20 students helped with the construction worker theme that incorporated clay, paint and glass media on the fiberglass jaguar.

The Big Cats will eventually be auctioned off at an event presented by Outback Steakhouse, with all proceeds benefiting education and life-skill initiatives for disadvantaged children in Jacksonville.

For more information on the Foundation, please visit www.otissmithfoundation.com.

Changes in the School of Education: New Dean, Revitalized Program

JU resurrected a unique program to help address the critical shortage of teachers. JU’s School of Education, in collaboration with the U.S. Navy and Duval County Public Schools, established an alternative route to teacher certification, the Second Career as a Teacher (SCAAT) program.

After just eight months as the new dean of the School of Education, it’s evident that Dr. Christina Ramirez-Smith is making a positive impact as a leader with a vision for progress and expansion. Ramirez-Smith, former dean of the College of Liberal Arts at Christopher Newport University (CNU) in Virginia, leads JU’s School of Education at a time when the shortage of First Coast teachers provides creative challenges for recruiting and retaining students.

“JU’s School of Education can meet the challenge of training much needed teachers. We’ve revitalized the Second Career as a Teacher program,” RamirezSmith said. “It has opportunities to recruit more education majors and graduate students and to be more visible in the community.” (See sidebar) “We are extremely pleased to have someone with Dr. Ramirez-Smith’s broad administrative experience and keen knowledge of how to gain success in the midst of some of the most difficult issues facing K-12 education,” Dr. Lois Becker, senior vice president for Academic Affairs said. “She is passionate and energetic, and has a proven track record of collaborative outreach to all the stakeholders in the educational process.”

During the past 25 years, RamirezSmith has worked as a schoolteacher, college professor and dean, educational and fundraising consultant, and corporate human resources director. She worked at CNU from 1992 to 2001 as a

Fast-Track Certification Can Help Alleviate Shortage

“JU has a long reputation of providing outstanding teacher education programs to meet the needs of Duval and the surrounding counties,” said Ramirez-Smith. “SCAAT is a cutting-edge program fully accredited by the Florida Department of Education.”

Dr. Christina Ramirez-Smith professor of education, director of student teaching and internships, and dean. She has also held teaching, research and administrative positions at Morgan State University in Maryland, Vermont College of Norwich University, and the College of the Bahamas. Most recently, she consulted on international education issues and worked with several community and charitable organizations.

Ramirez-Smith, a native of the Bahamas, has a bachelor of science in elementary and special education from the University of Idaho, a master of science in educational administration from Morgan State University and an Ed.D. degree from Boston University.

Classes began in October for the first SCAAT program students. JU offers several options for professionals with bachelor’s degrees. Depending on the teaching level chosen by incoming students, the program includes 16-18 semester hours of coursework during five consecutive 8-week sessions plus an internship for an additional six semester hours.

“What is unique about SCAAT is that we take working professionals and fast track them into teaching positions,” said Ramirez-Smith.

“SCAAT enables JU to provide teaching as a second career choice to people who already have full-time careers in other fields as well as people looking to change or enter the teaching field.”

The Wave | Spring 2007 17

Oldakowski Chosen for National Geography Award Sixteen years ago Dr. Ray Oldakowski, professor of Geography, left a high paying research job to teach at Jacksonville University. “Based on all the great students I’ve had over the years, it certainly was worth it!” he said.

What turned out to be a good move for Oldakowski, has been even better for JU. Since he arrived in 1990, more than 120 geography majors have graduated, and the vast majority – he still keeps up with most of them – have productive and enjoyable careers. “I’m very fulfilled knowing I may have played a role in helping them become successful,” he said.

In recognition for his outstanding contributions to geographic education, Oldakowski was selected for the National Council for Geographic Education’s Distinguished Teaching Achievement Award for 2006. He was one of eight university professors chosen from across the United States and Canada.

Oldakowski revitalized the geography program at JU by implementing engaged learning projects and productive internships. He supervises independent and advanced studies, recruits students to assist with the Florida State Geographic Bee, leads Study Abroad trips, and takes students to professional geography conferences.

As the recipient of a National Geographic grant, Oldakowski expanded a successful pilot program with Duval County schools to teach children about their own communities by

JU student Tim Seketa and Oldakowski exploring the Andes mountains during the Alternative Spring Break trip to Ecuador. using mapping techniques, field trips and Geographic Information Systems. In 2006, he invited a Jacksonville newspaper columnist to join JU students on their Alternative Spring Break to Ecuador, which resulted in a four-page spread in The Florida Times-Union.

Recently Oldakowski was honored again as one of three faculty members to receive JU’s Institutional Excellence Award for bringing regional and national recognition to JU. He currently serves as chair for the Division of Social Sciences.

Uptown Living Coming to Campus this Fall Common spaces on each floor will allow students the opportunity to immerse themselves in campus life. For those late night study breaks, Oak Hall will also feature a small dining facility and an outdoor terrace with views overlooking the St. Johns River and the Jacksonville city skyline.

The growth JU is experiencing will directly benefit students with the upgraded residential options on campus. Oak Hall is scheduled to be ready for the fall 2007 semester.

“This is really important for JU,” said President Kerry Romesburg. “It will help us maintain the residential nature of our campus and allow us to grow.”

Oak Hall, JU’s newest residential complex.

This fall, JU tore down a 250-bed dorm on the south end of campus to make room for this modern living quarters that will hold 500 beds. The new residence halls will provide a more independent approach to student living, including suitestyle living space styled as two double-occupancy rooms connected by a large, shared bathroom area. Each suite is approximately 625-square feet and will feature air conditioning with individual temperature controls, highspeed Internet and cable television.

18 The Wave | Spring 2007

“Our goal in developing Oak Hall was to provide a housing environment which promoted a high degree of social interaction, while still offering the privacy and amenities that today’s college students desire,” said Bryan Coker, dean of students.

An additional 300 parking spaces will be available in the adjoining parking structure, allowing all students – even freshmen – to bring a car with them to campus.

Nursing Program Expands to Include FNP/ENP Master's Only Five Programs in the U.S. Offer Same Sub-Specialization Amid reports about the state of crisis in emergency patient care and recommendations that additional staffing can alleviate the problem, Jacksonville University is increasing the options available in advanced nursing degrees.

The newest program for Family Nurse Practitioners (FNP) and Emergency Nurse Practitioners (ENP), starting fall 2007, will be only the sixth of its kind in the United States and the first in Florida.

“This is a timely program with the recent focus on emergency medicine and the volume of patients being seen in emergency care facilities around the country,” said Dr. Leigh Hart, dean of the School of Nursing. “We’ve created new options in our graduate programs by developing a FNP specialization with an ENP sub-specialization.”

“The expansion of the role of nurse practitioners opens up a great deal more opportunities for our graduates,” said Hart. ”Nurses who enter the program will be able to achieve certification as an FNP and will also have a sub-specialization in ENP which makes them prepared to work in acute emergency and urgent care settings.”

When the Florida Hospital Association organized a task force in December 2005 to examine an ongoing crisis in emergency care, the research revealed a major lack of qualified staff. In June 2006, the Institute of Medicine released three reports on the status of emergency care in the U.S. Their reports concluded that the nation’s emergency care facilities Applicants are being sought for the are in crisis with regard to factors such as inaugural class. “We’re looking for BSN Professor Cheryl Bergman (right) instructs fragmented care and patient volume. The nursing student Gissella Martinez on nurses with at least one year of emergency Center for Disease Control released its nursing experience along with advanced emergency care procedures. own report in September 2006 which cardiac life support certification,” said drew many of the same conclusions. JU’s program is designed to Hart. “There are only 20 slots available a year. It’s a competitive meet future workforce needs for qualified staff by preparing admission process.” If you’re interested in learning more about Family and Emergency Nurse Practitioners. the program, please call 800-225-2027.

Board of Trustees Welcomes New Members Dr. J. Phillip Garcia, ’90, Operates the Garcia Institute, specializing in facial plastic surgery.

Y. E. “Chipper” Hall, Jr., President and chief executive officer of Rex Corporation.

David C. Hodges, Jr. ’03, Executive vice president and chief operating officer of the Scott-McRae Group.

Bruce Kern, Chief executive officer of First Coast Sales.

Raymond K. Mason, Jr., Chairman and president of CenterBank of Jacksonville, N.A. F. Andrew Moran, ’78, President and chief executive officer of FAM Holdings,

Inc. He has served on the University’s Alumni Board of Governors.

Victoria Mussallem, ’98, Attorney, partner in Mussallem & Forbess.

Fred G. Pruitt, ’69, ’85, U. S. sales director for Rockall Technologies, headquartered in Dublin, Ireland.

John A. “Sandy” Semanik, ’72, Chief executive officer of SEDA Construction Company.

Terry L. Wilcox, Managing principal of Aon Risk Services Inc. A JU alumnus, he also serves as co-chair for the Financial Services and Insurance Task Force at the University’s Davis College of Business.

Frank Pace, ’73, Producer of nearly 500 episodes of network television, including Murphy Brown, Suddenly Susan, and the Emmy Award-winning ABC biopic Babe Ruth. His work has received 16 Emmy nominations and four awards.

He currently produces the ABC hit comedy George Lopez.

Pace has been a contributor to The Florida Times Union, Sports Illustrated, Emmy Magazine, and Soccer Journal, among others. A member of the Director’s Guild of America and the National Soccer Coaches Association of America, he is currently also the senior editorial advisor at Hall of Fame Magazine (HOFMAG.com).

The Wave | Spring 2007 19

New Davis Student Commons Adds Spark to Student Life

Above: Students exercise using the new treadmills while they are able to watch flat-screen televisions and enjoy the view.

Below: Enjoying the lounge areas, students meet to chat as well as to study.

After much planning and anticipation, the new Davis Student Commons opened in October bringing an energizing spark to student life at JU. The Commons provides a place where students can workout, shoot a game of pool, catch live entertainment, grab a bite to eat, meet with various clubs and groups, or just hang out with friends between classes.

Designed by the students for the students, the Commons is truly a place they can call their own. Dean of Students Bryan Coker said the planning for the facility was a collaborative process, with students involved at every step. Coker said that an undergraduate jokingly suggested a plaque on the building should read, “This building was not secretly designed by a bunch of old guys in suits and ties.” Although the comment was tongue in cheek, Coker said the 20 The Wave | Spring 2007

sentiment was accurate, reflecting the level of students’ input throughout the two-year planning stage.

On the first floor, the Billie Nimnicht Jr. Fitness Center looks out over the

St. Johns River and offers a view of the Jacksonville skyline.

On the second floor the Buccaneer Game Room buzzes with students socializing, playing pool, foosball, air

hockey and popular video games (See sidebar). Nellie’s, a breezy diner with popular fare such as buffalo wings and real ice cream milkshakes, will feature a patio for outdoor dining.

In addition, there are multipurpose rooms for student events, plenty of spacious lounges, an information center, and highdefinition flat screen televisions throughout the building.

Providing a central space for student activities, the third floor houses JU 108 (campus radio station), Student Government Association (SGA), Dolphin Productions, Intramurals, and Fraternity and Sorority Life. Offices for Student Life, Campus Activities and Career Services allow students easy access to the programs and services they use most.

Justin Camputaro, director of Campus Activities and Student Commons, spearheaded the building project. His main goal was to organize student groups who were previously “strewn all over campus” and establish a self-sufficient operation. To that end, the Davis Student Commons is staffed and run by nearly 45 student workers, including five building managers.

“They handle the operations, opening and closing, setting up for meetings, and running the facility in the evenings and on weekends. Student development…that’s why we’re here. This is real life hands-on experience,” said Camputaro.

Former JU trustee A. Dano Davis, and current trustees Anne Nimnicht and Carolyn Munro Wilson – donors who helped make the Student Commons a reality – were on hand at the dedication ceremony for the new facility. After thanking the donors, Coker said, “Throughout the entire design phase, students were told, ‘You are the architect.’ Now I can say you were the architect, and this is your building. Enjoy it.”

Students across campus are indeed enjoying it. Tutu Adeniran, SGA president, said the new building gives students a “wonderful opportunity to connect and interact.”

She added, “Now that student government has a dedicated space, people know where to find us. We’re much more accessible and we get more accomplished.”

Michela Peterson, a junior who lives on campus and visits the fitness center often said, “The central location is much more convenient for me. And everything is so fresh and clean.”

Ditto for Matt Sharman, a freshman who frequents the fitness center six times a week, and said, “It’s a good place to meet people.”

Buccaneer Brothers Work Together to Equip Game Room One of the jewels in the new Davis Student Commons is the Buccaneer Game Room, made possible through donations by members of the Buccaneer Fraternity, a mainstay on the JU campus in the late 1950s and through the 1960s.

Inspired by his fondest memories of days spent shooting pool on campus, Glenn Ross ’67 saw the perfect opportunity to rally his Buccaneer Brothers around this worthy cause.

More than 50 brothers, including several of the founders, responded to Ross’ request, and together they raised in excess of $25,000 to outfit the room. “Hopefully, this will inspire other organizations to support JU with similar projects,” said Ross.

Last November, many of those Buccaneers returned to campus for dinner in their new game room. Members traveled from as far as Kentucky and North Carolina to get reacquainted with fraternity brothers, some of whom had not seen each other in 40 years.

“It’s a great thing to host events like this, where members of a particular group can reconnect and build on friendships that started long ago,” said Grady Jones, vice president for Institutional Advancement. “As a University it’s what we’re all about. We’re all part of the JU family and we look forward to continuing events such as this that reconnect our alums and impact our students at the same time.”

Camputaro sees more and more students taking advantage of the facility each week, and continues to look for ways to add more amenities. Wilson, who is also a JU alum, remembers when JU had Quonset huts on campus, and told the students, “This facility is just lovely. Treat it with kindness and respect.

It is a wonderful thing.”

Story by Olga Bayer. Photos by laird.

The Wave | Spring 2007 21

A Community of Giving Begins at Home On a daily basis, Jacksonville University employees strive to help students achieve their goals through instruction, mentoring and encouragement. They not only give their time, guidance and support, but also generously shared their own financial resources through a campus wide initiative.

During the Campus Campaign this past September, employees joined to make a difference in the lives of JU students by making a pledge of support. Thirty-eight percent of employees made a gift to the University, raising thousands of dollars to support scholarships, technological advancements, facility improvements, extracurricular activities and library resources.

“The 135% increase in giving participation in this campaign is a reflection of the excitement and expectations for the University,” said Grady Jones, vice president of Institutional Advancement. “There is an energy that is spreading and growing every day with anticipation of all that can be accomplished, and the power the education and experience provided by JU will have on its students and the community.”

The Athletic Department was recognized for the highest percentage of participation in the campaign. However, students

were the real winners, as so many employees demonstrated their passion and commitment for education through financial support.

The generosity of JU employees not only directly helps the institution reach its goals, but serves as an example of the importance of philanthropy for our students and alumni, now and in the future. A community of giving begins at home, and on our campus it has already started.

Freshman Racer Lux Knows Education is Key Ask JU freshman Eric Lux what it is like to go fast and his face lights up. “At age 11, I was driving go-karts at 65 mph.”

He quickly rattles off other speed milestones in his young racing career: 100 mph at 12; 140 mph at 14; 195 mph at 15, and when he was actually old enough to earn his driver’s license he was racing cars that could easily exceed 200 mph.

Eric Lux (left) celebrates a win at Daytona with his team.

The “need for speed” defines the life of the business Lux currently drives for Tafel Racing in management major from Buffalo, N.Y. the Grand American Rolex and Grand American Cup Series.

“Right now I’m trying very hard to complete my business degree at JU, Lux was raised in a racing family. Both while I am also pursuing my racing parents raced in the 1980s and his career,” Lux said. “All the teachers have interest in going fast was evident at an worked closely with me to help me early age. His racing was not limited to achieve all of my goals in racing and my the track. He was a professional business degree. They’ve been great. But snowboarder who had more than 25 I know racing is what I want to do.” top-three finishes in U.S. 22 The Wave | Spring 2007

Snowboarding competitions.

Now that he lives in Florida, his love for snowboarding has transitioned into a love for recreational surfing. He now focuses his racing skills on the track.

By the time this semester ends in May, Lux will have raced in four different races in the 2007 season, including the 24 hours of Daytona, Mexico City, Homestead-Miami Grand Prix, Virginia International Raceway and Laguna Seca California.

“I chose JU because I wanted to leave the cold of the Northeast and needed a college where I could get to know my professors personally,” said Lux. “Racing puts a strain on my school schedule, but with extra effort, I am living my dream of earning my degree and racing professionally.”

DOLPHINS MAKE BIG SPLASH HIRING KERWIN BELL Bell’s playing career has also been filled with successes.

After joining the program at the University of Florida as a walk-on in 1984, Bell graduated as the school’s alltime leading passer. He went on to play in the Canadian Football League and the NFL for several years, with stops in Tampa Bay, Atlanta and Indianapolis.

J

acksonville University football took a big step forward in January by naming Kerwin Bell (pictured) the second head coach in the program’s history. A winner at every level, Bell brings his winning mentality to JU with the goal of taking the program to new heights.

“Kerwin is a proven winner, a leader and he has a vision for JU football that will allow our program to attain excellence,” said Alan Verlander, JU director of Athletics. “We believe the community of this great city will come out and support our efforts in building a toprate football program.”

While it’s a quick rise to the collegiate level – Bell most recently coached a highly successful high school team – he brings strong leadership qualities to a program still in its infancy.

“After talking to Alan during the interview process, I felt his energy and excitement about taking JU football to another level,” Bell said. “This program has a lot of potential and once people see the product we put out on the field, they will want to jump on board as we build something special for the entire city of Jacksonville to enjoy. With President Romesburg’s and Alan’s vision of where this program can go, I think we have a very bright future ahead of us.”

Bell’s coaching career got off to a hot start. After working as a graduate assistant under Steve Spurrier for a year at Florida, he moved on to coaching high school. Bell built the program at Trinity Catholic High School in Ocala, Fla., from the ground up in just five years, eventually winning the Class 2B state championship in 2005 and finishing as the state runner-up in 2006.

The Wave | Spring 2007 23

BASKETBALL SURGES INTO SPOTLIGHT Men’s and Women’s Basketball Fortunes Turn Around

I

t has been quite awhile since the fortunes of the Jacksonville University’s men’s and women’s basketball teams have been this promising.

On the men’s side, the starting lineup features only two upperclassmen that play more than 10 minutes per game – with three freshmen in the starting lineup.

With the influx of new talent, the Dolphins have put together one of the biggest single-season turnarounds in NCAA history.

The women’s team features the highest scoring duo in the Atlantic Sun Conference – with both returning to build upon their success. Supported by a consistent team effort, that duo has elevated the Dolphins into contention for the conference title.

A year ago, that wasn’t the case.

Last season saw both programs suffer through growing pains as they developed an influx of young talent. Now, JU is reaping the benefits of the dedication of head coaches Cliff Warren (center right) and Jill Dunn.

Warren was nominated for two national “Coach of the Year” awards for his guidance of the Dolphins from one win a year ago to the top half of the A-Sun. His first full recruiting class came in and meshed with a group of veterans that have grown into one of the most dangerous teams in the conference, led by sixth-year senior Jesse Kimbrough. Felled by injuries last season, Kimbrough battled back and received an extra year of eligibility from the NCAA and used it to his advantage. He leads the Dolphins in scoring, assists and steals.

More importantly, Kimbrough has been a leader and example for the younger players who are just starting their collegiate careers.

Ben Smith (below), a freshman point guard, finished his first season by averaging 9.9 points per game and had 124 assists.

He also ranked second in the A-Sun after hitting 82.4 percent of his free throws.

“This group has come a long way this season, but we’re still not where we want to be,”Warren said.“Everyone in the program is excited about working towards our goal of a conference championship.”

Dunn meanwhile has built a foundation for the women’s program to succeed for the next few years behind Ashley Williams.Williams set the single-season school record for points a year ago and is on pace to shatter that record this season.

Surrounding Williams is a talented group of youngsters, with three sophomores and a freshman in the starting lineup.

“We are still a young team that is learning how to play together,” Dunn said. “They are so enthusiastic and have a great passion for the game, which comes out every time they step on the floor.”

Virginia Gregoire

Head coach Cliff Warren

Ben Smith Ashley Williams

24 The Wave | Spring 2007

WOMEN’S SOCCER CLAIMS CONFERENCE TITLE

T

hree wins in three days. That was all it took for the JU women’s soccer team to claim the 2006 Atlantic Sun Conference women’s soccer title. The Dolphins secured their first conference title since 2000 and earned an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.

“I’m really happy with how our team represented JU and themselves,” said JU head coach Chris Kouns. “They have been working on this all year long.”

Sophomore Keri Zwikker scored her 10th goal of the season, while senior goalie Michelle Kmiotek tallied her ninth shutout to help lead the Dolphins to 1-0 victory over Stetson in the title game on Nov. 4 in Kennesaw, Ga. Kmiotek earned tournament MVP honors after making 37 stops in three matches – including eight saves in the final to lead the Dolphins defense. The final shutout was the 18th of her career, extending her school record.

Zwikker scored two goals to be named to the all-tournament team, while sophomores Kirby Hutton (right) and Angela Hulse also earned all-tournament accolades.

In the semifinals, JU tied the match against regular-season champion Kennesaw State at one with less than two minutes remaining in regulation and then less than a minute into overtime; junior Emilie Howland hit the game-winning goal to send the Dolphins to the final.

In the final, Zwikker’s goal at the 19-minute mark gave the Dolphins all the offense they needed.

MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER DRAFTS TOMMY KRIZANOVIC U men’s soccer forward Tommy Krizanovic (left) was drafted by FC Dallas in the fourth round of the 2007 Major League Soccer SuperDraft.

Krizanovic, named Atlantic Sun Conference “Player of the Year” after a stellar senior campaign, was selected 43rd overall to become the first player in JU and Atlantic Sun Conference history selected in the MLS draft.

“Everything is different at this level,” Krizanovic said. “All of it is very professional from the way we practice to the way the other players handle themselves.”

Leading the A-Sun in scoring for three seasons en route to earning three consecutive first-team all-conference and National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) All-South region honors, Krizanovic finished the regular season leading the nation in goals (1.08) and points per game (2.46).

In 2006, he scored a team-high 14 goals and 33 points to earn first team allconference and NSCAA/adidas All-South second team accolades after leading the Dolphins to their second straight A-Sun Tournament and first berth in the conference semifinals since 2002.

He finished with 47 career goals which ranks third in school history and tallied 108 career points to finish fifth on the all-time list.

The Wave | Spring 2007 25

BASEBALL SET TO DEFEND CONFERENCE TITLE

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fter a Cinderella 2006 season, JU Dolphin baseball is ready to prove the achievement was not a fluke. And head coach Terry Alexander could not have scripted it any better.

The Dolphins won the second most games in the history of the program (43), earned their first Atlantic Sun Conference regular-season title and reached the NCAA Regionals for the 11th time. Alexander, who racked up his 500th career win, was named Atlantic Sun Conference “Coach of the Year” to go along with “Player of the Year” (Daniel Murphy) and “Pitcher of the Year” (Matt Dobbins, bottom right) accolades.

So what did the Dolphins do in the offseason? They made the squad even better.

With the departure of the Dolphins’ two top hitters JU signed 12 studentathletes to ease the transition. Recognized by Collegiate Baseball as one of the top 40 recruitment classes in the nation, the Dolphins also have returning star power with All-America pitcher Dobbins and first team allconference outfielder Pete Clifford (top right).

Dobbins tied for the most wins in the nation (12) while also being recognized as a semifinalist for the Brooks Wallace College Baseball Player of the Year Award. Clifford, who led the offense with 21 doubles, three triples and 21 steals, also led the Santa Barbara Foresters to a 2006 National Baseball Congress National Championship over the summer.

With this balanced attack, the Dolphins hope to repeat the success of last year’s title campaign.

JU SENDS TWO DOLPHINS TO THE MINORS

F 26 The Wave | Spring 2007

or two Dolphins, the 2006 season didn’t stop in Athens, Ga. at the NCAA Regionals. Gordie Gronkowski (left) and Daniel Murphy (right) saw their collegiate careers end and professional careers begin as both were selected in the MLB Amateur Draft.

Murphy was selected in the 13th round by the New York Mets, while Gronkowski was picked by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in the 49th round.

Both signed and immediately went to the minor leagues. In three stops with the Gulf Coast Mets of the Rookie League, the Kingsport Mets in the Appalachian League and the Brooklyn Cyclones in Class A ball, Murphy hit .213 with 17 hits, two home runs and 10 RBIs in 25 games.

Meanwhile, Gronkowski played for the Orem Owlz in the Pioneer League, hitting .282 with 11 hits, two doubles and three RBIs in 13 games.

“Both of these young men have a great opportunity to pursue their dream of playing in the big leagues,” said JU head coach Terry Alexander. “Daniel and Gordie both had impressive careers at JU and they will carry themselves well in the professional ranks.”

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Keisling’s Journey into Art Inspires Students One by one instructor who was raised in a traditional Asian family where students gingerly set girls are taught to be submissive. “The faculty at JU value their ceramic vessels students and give them a sense of worth. Through art, I on a table for viewing. learned how to communicate. I found I could be vocal “It’s not about without being disrespectful. I learned you can be expressive dissing anyone,” and have your own voice.” explains art teacher Mai Keisling, BFA ’90/MAT ’91, as she hands out evaluation forms to students in her sculpture class at Paxon High School – Mai Keisling for Advanced Studies.

“It’s about being candid, judging by the Keisling tries to give her students a glimpse of the college criteria… not your emotions, not your friends. Evaluate the life she experienced, and routinely plans field trips to JU for vases truthfully.” hands-on opportunities in computer arts, glassblowing, Finding the truth in – and through – their art is an painting, sculpture and more. “I will forever be grateful to important lesson she conveys to her students. “I evaluate the faculty at JU. They gave me the drive that really got me their work in a nurturing way because I want them to going,” said Keisling.

Story by Olga Bayer become the best person they can be,” said Keisling, who as a teenager made a harrowing escape from Viet Nam to the United States and discovered art as “therapy” for coping with life in a new culture.

Keisling’s passion for teaching has ignited students in Duval County schools for 15 years. Recently, she was recognized as Outstanding High School Art Teacher of the Year by the Florida Art Education Association. In addition, she was honored as one of six finalists for the Duval County Teacher of the Year, and was named 2006 Educator of the Year by the Jacksonville Mayor’s Asian-American Advisory Board.

She’s also been asked to serve on the Jacksonville Cultural Council’s Art in Public Places Committee.

Although Keisling loves math and science as much as art – she also studied engineering for two years at JU – it was an art scholarship that steered her toward an art degree. Today, Small in stature but big in determination, Keisling prepares her class for an art critique. there are no regrets for this dynamic

“I will forever be grateful to the faculty at JU. They gave me the drive that really got me going,”

The Wave | Spring 2007 27

Garcia Brothers Change Face of Plastic Surgery on First Coast When you think about it, there are a lot of wellknown brothers all over the map: The brothers Grimm, the Smothers Brothers, and Warner Bros., just to name a few. In Jacksonville, there are the Garcia Brothers. They grew up together, went to the same university – JU – for their undergraduate degree, and ended up working together, fulfilling their dream to run their own plastic surgery institute.

The Garcia brothers, better known as J. Phillip ’90 and Roberto ’94 to family and friends, founded the Garcia Facial Institute, the only specialized facial surgery center on the First Coast and have been making a name for themselves ever since.

According to Dr. Roberto Garcia, “Only 35 people graduate nationwide each year in the facial/plastic surgery expertise.” Residents from all over the First Coast seek Drs. Garcia and Garcia for their extensive knowledge of facial plastic surgery. Specializing in one specific type of surgery has helped their business, and allows the doctors to provide a more personal touch to their patients.

The word plastic comes from the Greek term plastikos which means to mold or shape, and Dr. Roberto Garcia said that’s really what their practice accomplishes. “To know we are making people feel better about themselves when they look in the mirror is the best reward of our practice,” he said.

The Garcias are committed to their community, and proud to say they received all of their education on the First Coast. That, too, has helped their business thrive.

“Anytime you stay local, you’re able to really give back to the community, and we’ve always believed in the potential of Jacksonville.”

With few surgery centers such as this on the First Coast, the Garcias have enjoyed unprecedented nationwide attention. But the brothers believe their experience at JU was instrumental in helping them achieve the community status they enjoy today. “We were both fortunate to train at the best places in the country, thanks to JU,” Roberto said.

When asked about the quality of education he received at Jacksonville University, Roberto mentions the individualized instruction and small class sizes. Both brothers were encouraged to involve themselves in their coursework and to participate in extracurricular activities.

Grateful for their educational experience, the Garcia family continues to give back to the JU community. This year, J. Phillip Garcia graciously accepted the opportunity to serve on the Board of Trustees.

28 The Wave | Spring 2007

Show Your Dolphin Spirit!

When you buy a JU specialty license plate, more than 90 percent of the proceeds come back to JU, and that’s a source of much-needed funding for the University. Currently more than 1,000 friends, family and alumni of JU are sporting the plate on vehicles throughout Florida. You can too! Just contact your local tax collector’s office.

Join Chancellor Emeritus Dr. Fran Kinne by showing your true colors.

Long Lost Ring Found Talk about lost and found. Paul Petraglia ’93 remembers it well – the day he lost his JU class ring – even though it was 11 years ago. After washing his hands and walking out of a restroom in the Atlanta Airport, he realized he’d forgotten his ring and watch. He immediately returned to the scene only to find both items missing.

Fast forward to January 2007. An employee from the Lost and Found department at the airport noticed an envelope in a file drawer, marked “1996.” It contained the ring marked with a name, college and major. She called JU to find the ring’s rightful owner and the Alumni Relations Office began the search to find Petraglia.

“It wasn’t as easy as a quick phone call,” said Kim Mariani Hernandez, JU alumni director. “He had moved several times, but with a little digging and the help of Dr. Juan Merkt, director of the aeronautics program, we found him!”

Petraglia, who works for The Stellar Group in Jacksonville, still can’t believe it. He says he never did get the watch back, but the ring holds a lot more memories.

Cheers! Author’s First Novel Getting Rave Reviews

They say writers write about what they know, and Lindsay Moss, BFA ’96, who recently launched her first novel You Made This Drink, You Drink It is living proof – no pun intended – of that truism. Moss, who works as a professional dancer for Disney MGM Studios in Orlando, commented about the premise of her book, “The story is not about a victim, but a survivor, a victor. I like to say I put the funny in dysfunction.”

With wit and humor, and an extra dose of spunk Moss chronicles the trials of headstrong “tell-it-like-it-is” heroine Lexxie Parker, also a professional dancer, as she struggles to plan her wedding with help from a lunatic mother who’s “ready for rehab.”

The book has received critical acclaim, and has turned Moss into a local celebrity – she’s been interviewed on television and radio, and invited to numerous book signings and speaking engagements. At an agent’s request, Moss is currently adapting the book into a screenplay, and she was recently asked to pen her own column about sex and marriage for Orlando Style Magazine.

Moss has been dancing since the age of six, and keeping journals since age nine. In high school she spent more time dancing than studying which took a toll on her grades. However, after earning a dance scholarship to Jacksonville University, things changed for the better. “I had my own schedule… studied my butt off and was on the dean’s list the whole time. I really focused,” she said.

“The Harvard of the south” is how Moss and friends referred to JU. “We had the beach. And the dance studios overlooking the valley were beautiful.

It felt like a finishing school,” she said.

How apropos that Moss, who “lived at the studio,” also remembers that one of her favorite classes was a course about sex and marriage.

As a dance major and creative writing minor, Moss is relishing the success she has achieved in both worlds. Her career has taken her around the globe, including Japan where she did a seven month stint at Tokyo Disneyland. She’s still in awe that she gets paid for doing what she loves – dancing. And knowing that she “can’t dance forever” Moss said she can easily transition from entertainer to writer – doing something else she loves.

It’s tempting to say that talent – and chutzpah – landed Moss where she is today. There’s no denying she has a ton of both, but on her website at www.youmadethisdrink.com, Moss said, “I loved college and it forced me to go after my dreams and work hard for what I wanted out of life.”

Moss’s hard work is definitely paying off. She is happy to be where she is today, and wouldn’t change a thing in her past. Now, she wants to reach out to others who can relate to her story and laugh with her.

Story by Olga Bayer

New Judge Takes Memories of JU to the Bench Many Jacksonville University graduates go on to successful careers outside of Duval County, but newly elected Circuit Judge John Merrett ’81 is making an impact here at home.

When asked about the path to his success, Merrett credits his experience at JU. “Going to JU gave me a big advantage to get where I am today,” Merrett said. With a double major in history and English, Merrett fondly attributes Dr. Walker Blanton, a history professor, and Dr. Wayne Hamm, an English professor, as early influences in his academic career.

“The vast amount of information a person can acquire because of the JU faculty helped me in my life goals,” Merrett recalled.

Following JU, Merrett graduated with honors from Florida State University Law school in 1986. Returning to Jacksonville,

he began his legal career by serving under then-Duval County State Attorney Ed Austin and later with current Duval County State Attorney Harry Shorstein. With stints in private practice in between, Merrett acquired the qualifications that helped him get elected to the circuit judge position by a 57 percent margin in November.

Though the job has been more exhausting than he initially expected, Merrett is content on the bench and pleased with the experience JU offered him more than 20 years ago.

“There are few things I can’t recall historically thanks to Dr. Blanton,” he said. “JU is the most underrated school in the nation with regard to my experience with bigger schools,” Merrett proudly stated.

The Wave | Spring 2007 29

Alumni EVENTS August JU Day at the Jacksonville Suns Atlanta Chapter Luncheon Meeting

Antone andMatthew Roger Strickland '63 RandyJoe Amos ’70 and Kampfe ’06

Atlanta Chapter at the Atlanta Braves game Mark ’85 and Linda Raymond

September Young Alumni Happy Hour at Ragtime Washington, DC Dolphins Happy Hour

Judy and President Kerry Romesburg and Penny Waller ’76

New York City Big Apple Brunch Toast to JU Women JU Football Tailgates Fernandina Happy Hour

October Young Alumni Happy Hour at Seven Bridges Charlotte Football Pre-game Pizza Party

Viveca Brown ’04, Laura Bittencourt ’95, Faye Ackerman ’04 and Janell Connor ’02

Homecoming Events President’s Welcome Reception Mock Rock

Joanna Christopher ’05, Tiger Tari ’00, Caitlin Johnson ’05 and Anna Lunsford ’06

Alumni Crew Race Barbecue Tailgate Dolphin Dinner Bash Return of the RAT

30 The Wave | Spring 2007

(Clockwise) Cheryl Mackey Smith ’76, Kay McCormick ’76, Karen Bowen ’76 Ellen Paige ’76, Dana Schufeldt McKay ’75

Alumni EVENTS

November Young Alumni Happy Hour at The Grotto Buccaneer Reunion JU Football Tailgates Marc Sanden ’03, Melissa Holland ’05, Stephanie Potts ’02, Matt Kane ’01, Matt Eckler ’96, Megan England ’02 and Addams England ’01

Jacksonville Jaguars Tailgate Scholarship Competition at the Jacksonville Fair JU vs. St. Leo Basketball Reception

Natalie Hashey ’94, Barbara Stith, Jeannie Hardwick ’84, Brian ’96, ’06 and Michale Dudley ’99 and Terry Hashey ’94

Holiday Party JU at University of Florida Basketball Happy Hour December Senior Reception and Toast for Class of 2007 January Atlanta Happy Hour St. Augustine Happy Hour JU vs. UNF Basketball Pre-game at Beef-o-Brady’s

Royce ’75 and Nancy Duncan ’77, Mary Olasin DuBose ’76, and Linda Raymond

JU at Kennesaw State Basketball Pre-game Party

Karen Hike ’76 and Ed Robinson ’64

February Young Alumni Happy Hour at Bonefish at the Beach JU vs. UNF Basketball Pep Rally and Reception

Tom Hack ’75, Marvin Harris and Rob Rice

Women’s Night Out at Linda Cunningham Philadelphia Luncheon and Happy Hour

Robert ’86 and Julie Leverock, with son Jacob

South Jersey Dolphins Happy Hour

The Wave | Spring 2007 31

C L A S S NOTES 1960s

Terry McFarlane, BS ’64, recently retired from the State of Florida and is enjoying his retirement in Pocahontas, Ark., with his wife, Vada. The couple has five children and nine grandchildren.

Joan O’Donnell Bennett, BA ’68, recently retired after 25 years as a human resources consultant for Northern Trust Bank of Florida. She and her husband spend summers at their home in Belfast, Maine, and winters in Sarasota.

Beth Cowart, BA ’69, recently received an award as one of the 25 most influential people in the history of Residence XII, an alcohol and drug treatment facility in Kirkland, Wash.

1970s

Jim Pound, BS ’72, lives in Longwood, Fla. Retired in January 2005 from AT&T as director of the southeast region business development, he now works for Coldwell Banker.

Charlotte Etta Bushong, BS ’74, lives in New Jersey and is director of central supply for Saint James Hospital, which is part of the Cathedral Healthcare System in Newark.

32 The Wave | Spring 2007

Bruce G. Roberts, BS ’75, lives in Jacksonville and has joined RSM McGladrey as practice leader for Information Technology and Management Consulting in the firm’s Florida practice. He comes on board as RSM McGladrey continues its efforts to strengthen its presence in North Florida.

(Back row, left to right): Ed Nelson, ’82 and Dr. Quint White, dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, (front row) Jeff Bomber, BS ’82, Phil Taggert, BS ’83, Al Fenedick, BS ’83, and Jim O’Keefe, BA ’83, took a spring fishing trip to the Rockwell Springs Trout Club in Ohio.

James C. Sawran, BS ’76, was recently appointed by The Florida Bar Board of Governors to serve a two-year term, effective July, 2006, on The Florida Medical Malpractice Joint Underwriting Association Board of Governors. He is a partner at the Fort Lauderdale based law firm of McIntosh, Sawran, Peltz & Cartaya, P.A. Lee Schamberg, BS ’77, worked for Huffman Koos for more than 23 years as a furniture salesperson. He currently works for Thomasville Furniture in East Hanover, N.J., where he was recently named a Million Dollar Writer.

1980s

Charles Stanbery, BS ’83, is currently on active duty in Iraq.

Kathleen McKinney, BA ’84, was appointed Deputy Director in the National Labor Relations Board regional office in New Orleans last August. A career NLRB employee, she began her service in 1990 as an attorney in the New Orleans office.

David Opdycke, BA ’89, was recently promoted to associate director of Admissions at Flagler College in St. Augustine, where he has worked for six years.

1990s

Mike Freed, BA ’90, lives in Jacksonville and is the managing partner with the Brennan, Manna & Diamond law firm. He was recently voted to Florida Trend Magazine’s legal elite.

Tina Athans, BA ’91, is entering her third year with the Corpus Christi Hooks Baseball Club as director of stadium operations. Prior to joining the Hooks, she completed a 22-year career in the U.S. Navy, serving as an enlisted air traffic controller and a line officer in duty stations in the United States and all over the world.

Wendy Demmond Grantz, BA ’91, lives in Palestine, Tex., and is executive director of the East Central Texas United Way.

Joanne Steele, BA ’93, is the golf coach at the University of Montana.

She was recently named the 20052006 Big Sky Conference Golf Coach of the Year. Joanne is in her tenth season there and recently led the Grizzlies to their first-ever Big Sky Conference title.

Maureen “Moe” McGinty, BSN ’96/MSN ’06, is a nursing professor at St. Johns River Community College in Orange Park.

Regina Viscogliosi Villanueva, BS ’96, ran the Disney HalfMarathon for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and raised more than $2,000.

She is pictured with her daughter, Marnie, after finishing the 13.1 mile run.

Jodie Rocha Werner, BS ’96, lives in Orlando with her husband, Troy, and their two children, Chase and Kailey (pictured).

Jodie is the property manager for off-campus housing at UCF. Rebecca “Becky” Bandy Bonfanti, BS ’98, is practicing law at the Tallahassee firm of Powell & Mack, Attorneys at Law. She specializes in family law and criminal defense.

Tracy Dugger Lamb, BS ’99, is a vice president of Sheldrick, McGeHee & Kohler, LLC in Jacksonville. She recently received designation as an accredited senior appraiser from the American Society of Appraisers.

2000s

Rachel Anne Kieran, BA ’01/ BS ’01, recently completed her Doctorate of Clinical Psychology from the University of Denver. She is completing a post-doctoral fellowship at Georgia State University in Atlanta.

Peter Casella, MAT ’02, has been appointed visiting assistant professor of Communications at JU. Last spring, as a Roy H. Park Ph.D. Fellow at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, he was honored with the School of Journalism’s Joseph L. Morrison Award for Excellence in Mass Communication History.

Megan E. Libby, BS ’02, lives in Asia and is doing humanitarian work in Burma with the Student Campaign for Burma and the Center for Peace Building International while continuing her studies at American University.

Kay Creager, BA ’06, is teaching English in Seoul, Korea. She has also visited Japan and is enjoying her experience teaching abroad.

Bonnie Barnes, MBA ’06, is the new executive director for St. Johns Vision Inc., a nonprofit organization designed to help prioritize and identify St. Johns County citizens’ needs and concerns.

Show your Dolphin spirit and support: buy a JU specialty license plate! More than 90% of the proceeds come back to JU, and that’s a source of much-needed funding for the University. Currently more than 1,000 friends, family and alumni of JU are sporting the plate on vehicles throughout Florida. You can too! Just contact your local tax collector’s office.

Weddings

Jennifer Daniels, BS ’98, married Brian Amarnick on July 8, 2006.

Belinda Dell, BA ’03, married Levi Allen Wright on February 4, 2006.

Carissa Smith, BFA ’01, married Aaron Jackson in Jacksonville in October 2006.

Lauren Asp, BA ’04, lives in San Diego and works in the career services department at the Art Institute of California-San Diego.

The Wave | Spring 2007 33

New Arrivals

Stephanie Wilson Amacher, BA ’93, and husband, Jody, became proud parents of Schuyler James in January 2006.

Michelle Campbell Brown, BS ’95, and husband, Brad, BA ’94, became proud parents of Ryan Andrew on April 12, 2005. He is also welcomed by his sister, Hailey.

Erin Davis Burns, BS ’01, and husband, Rick, BS ’02, became proud parents of Jillian Naomi Burns on June 19, 2006.

Stephanie Comparetta, BS ’02, and Jeffrey Johnson became proud parents of Dominic Anthony on June 5, 2005.

Erin McInerney Cullen, BS ’99, and husband, Matthew, became proud parents of Maximus Alexander on September 1, 2006.

34 The Wave | Spring 2007

Alaine Williams Ducharme BS ’93, and husband, Rich, became proud parents of Thomas Warren on March 31, 2006. He is also welcomed by his sister Jordan and brother Jake.

Andrew T. Hamilton, BS ’98, and wife, Carla, became proud parents of Avery Thomas on July 31, 2006.

Charity James Hudnut, BFA ’92, and husband, Pete, became proud parents of Liliana Mae on June 9, 2006.

Elizabeth Lindstrom LaBarbera, BA ’00, and husband Toby became proud parents of Brady Michael on December 1, 2006.

Brenda Lamey Schilling, BS ’88, and husband, Bill, became proud parents of William James on February 25, 2006.

In Memoriam

Randall Scott Amos, BS ’01/MBA ’02, on October 28, 2006.

Rachael Lynn Athans, MBA ’05, on December 31, 2006.

Christina Sanders Brickner, BA ’93, on August 5, 2006.

Robert “Randy” Iocco, Jr., MBA ’02 on March 9, 2007.

Larry Parker, BS ’73, on July 15, 2006.

Mark J. Roesser, BS ’84, on March 6, 2007.

Catrina Seibert Wilkie, BSN ’07, on January 16, 2007.

Andrew Wayne Worster, BA ’00, on August 21, 2006.

Class Notes is compiled by your friends in the Alumni Relations Office. If you've got news to share, let us know! We want to stay connected with you so e-mail your information and photos to alumni@ju.edu.

Please do not send hard copy photos.

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ith the recent opening of the newly renovated Swisher

Theatre at Jacksonville University and new programs being initiated by Bill Hill, dean of the College of Fine Arts, the college is experiencing a rebirth of sorts. With the emerging graphic design program, esteemed glassblowing program, and criticallyacclaimed faculty, the college is looking back over its first 45 years and honoring one of their own.

The stars truly did come out for the 45th Anniversary of the College of Fine Arts to honor JU Chancellor Emeritus Frances Bartlett Kinne, Ph.D., former dean of Fine Arts and former president of JU. Past and present Jacksonville politicians and notable people in the fine arts world paid special tribute to Kinne, making the evening one to remember. Special guest Roger Williams, one of the most popular pianists in America, performed during the program.

The event, held in the ballroom at the new Main Library in downtown Jacksonville, was hosted by two JU alums who have close ties to Kinne – Hollywood producer Frank Pace ’73 and actor Jay Thomas ’72. Pace commented, “Dr. Kinne is the face of JU. Her legacy and love of the university is something that everyone associated with JU should strive to honor.”

When Kinne first came to JU, she was hired as a part-time humanities professor. She quickly won over the hearts and minds of students, faculty and administration and said with a trademark smile on her face, “I could never say ‘no’ if someone needed something.”

With no intention to become Fine Arts dean, Kinne agreed to accept the position on a six month trail basis. She grew to love the job and was delighted to see progress, growth and development in the college. During her tenure in the 1970s, the College of Fine Arts hosted celebrities such as Duke Ellington, The Fifth Dimension, Linus Pauling and Bob Hope. “I didn’t have to pay them a dime either,” quipped Kinne.

Kinne remembers a time when there was no dance major, and only a fledgling music program. But today both programs are hallmarks of the College of Fine Arts. Surrounded by friends, faculty, students, alumni and celebrities alike on March 10, Kinne herself was honored as a “hallmark” of JU. Story by Casey Hampton A Special Thanks to JU’s Fine Arts Anniversary Sponsors: The Florida Times-Union, W.W. Gay Mechanical Contractors, Inc., D.F. Miller Development, Mrs. Ruth Conley, Weaver Family Foundation and Bug-Out Services, Inc.

Top: Hill with Kinne.

Center: Williams and Kinne in academic regalia after he received an honorary degree.

Bottom: (Left) Pace. (Right) Thomas.

RELIVE YOUR COLLEGE YEARS, MINUS THE RAMEN NOODLES

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Make the Connection.

Since your experience at JU was something you’ll never forget, we’re asking for referrals for future JU Dolphins! If you know someone, maybe it’s your son or daughter, please send us their contact information and as a special thank you, we will waive the $30 application fee!

Name: ______________________________________________________________________ Address: ___________________________________________________________________ City: __________________________________ State: __________ Zip: _____________ Phone: _____________________________________________________________________ E-mail: ______________________________________________________________________ Anticipated graduation year: ___________________ Freshman/Transfer: _____________________________ Possible Major: __________________________________

Return form to: Jacksonsonville University, Admission Office 2800 University Blvd. N., Jacksonville, Florida 32211

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