The University of Southern Mississippi
advancement report
118 College Drive #10026 Hattiesburg, MS 39406-0001 601.266.5602 www.usm.edu/foundation AA/EOE/ADAI PCS 59841.10026
The University of Southern Mississippi: A
Creative spir it. A Bold impact. A Determined future.
Southern Miss to the Top!
More than the words to our fight song, this phrase rings true throughout our existence. We have come a long way in nearly 100 years and are ready to advance to the next level. Through our creativity, boldness and determination, we have forged ahead and will continue to rise to the top. The success of Southern Miss can be attributed to our personal stories, spirit of generosity and strong family of alumni and friends.
The Southern Miss Story
Our story began nearly a century ago as Mississippi’s first state-supported teacher training school. From the beginning, Southern Miss realized the potential for opening doors to a better future. Today, we are the premier research university for the Gulf South, recognized for our external funding, innovative discoveries and extraordinary faculty. We have paved the way for future generations to carry on our legacy.
The Southern Miss Spirit
Southern Miss has a spirit of generosity. We are faithful stewards of our resources and anxious to share what we have with the larger world. Our students realize success, graduating with the tools they need to excel and make a difference. It is the spirit of giving among our family and friends that changes the lives of our students.
The Southern Miss Family
Southern Miss is steeped in tradition and represents what it means to be a university family. We look people straight in the eye – greeting friends and strangers alike. We consider others’ needs along with our own. Our family reaches out and extends themselves not because they expect something in return, but because it is part of who we are. We are a family united, and our collective stories, spirit and generosity are advancing Southern Miss to the top. Together, we are moving forward – creative, bold, determined.
a plan for
the next 100 years
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This process was created based on the assumption that individuals and organizations are most effective when moving in the direction of their hopes and dreams. “I firmly believe that organizations prosper when they build on their strengths and follow the hopes and dreams of their stakeholders,” said Saunders. “We learned a lot about ourselves, including those values and beliefs that make Southern Miss, Southern Miss.” The five forces identified as central to the core of Southern Miss are a spirit of humanity, self-efficacy, collective individualism, heritage-tradition and diversity. These forces of innovation represent the intangible characteristics that make Southern Miss what it is while at the same time providing the energy to move the University toward its desired future.
u ni v e r s i t y pr e s i d e n t f or m u l at e s s tr ate g ic pl a n During her annual state of the university address this fall, Southern Miss President Martha Saunders called on the campus community to rely on the institution’s core strengths to achieve future goals in the face of obstacles as it moves toward the centennial in 2010. “Our accomplishments of the past have been hard won, and our goals for the future will challenge us,” said Saunders. “But I have faith in the creativity, the boldness and the determination of the people of Southern Miss.”
It is that description of the people of Southern Miss, identified through a series of campus dialogues in fall 2007, which has become the cornerstone for a new strategic plan. During the fall of 2007, more than 350 participants that included students, faculty, staff, alumni and community leaders came together in 11 sessions in Hattiesburg and across the Gulf Coast to identify the strengths of the University and the aspirations of its people.
S t r at e g ic A r e a s of F o c u s The work of the past year has generated a vision for the University and its four areas of strategic interest: • Image Development Promotes the internal and external reputation of the University and supports the vision of Southern Miss • A Climate for Academic Success A unified environment that minimizes barriers for enrolled and prospective students, attracts and retains quality faculty and staff, embraces and reflects diversity and produces graduates who are truly competitive in the global marketplace • Connections with Community Engaged citizens of Southern Miss who genuinely invest in their university and host communities
“We see ourselves emerging as the premier research university of the Gulf South, engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities,” said Saunders. “Our new strategic plan has given us a compass and a guide.” With the help of key consultants, the University’s strategic planning committee has defined a vision for these areas along with key performance indicators. The plan is built on a foundation of good enrollment planning, fiscal integrity, adequate facilities and logical resource allocation.
• A Culture of Healthy Minds, Bodies and Campuses Emphasizes a multidimensional, healthy environment at Southern Miss
“Success lies in the ability to translate vision into action,” said Saunders. “This strategic effort is about developing a living, breathing plan of action where we gather ideas, set objectives and measure our performance.”
• Peer-reviewed publications and creative endeavors
The Strategic Planning Committee will be measuring success, in part, through: • The numbers of baccalaureate degrees awarded • Square footage of new or substantially renovated facilities • Student satisfaction surveys • External research funding • Total endowment
“ As w e m ov e to wa r d o u r n e xt 1 0 0 y e a rs of s e rv ic e to t h i s s tat e , w e h av e a g o od s e n s e of w ho w e a r e , w h e r e w e h av e be e n a n d w h e r e w e a r e g oi ng . ”
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Boldly advancing
Southern Miss
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“ W e wa n t to b u i l d s o m e t h i ng l a s t i ng a n d r e l e va n t i n e n s u r i ng t h at o u r s t u d e n ts tod ay a n d o u r s t u de n ts tom or r o w h av e opp ort u n i t i e s to c r e at e t h e i r o w n s tor i e s of s u c c e ss a n d per s e v e r a nc e . ” de v e lopi ng a t e a m f or t h e of f ic e of a d va nc e m e n t Driven to succeed, the Office of Advancement is committed to taking Southern Miss to the top. Led by Dr. David Wolf, vice president for Advancement, the office is comprised of the Department of Development (USM Foundation), Marketing and Public Relations and Alumni Affairs. Under this new advancement model, these three departments work together to maximize financial contributions to the University, execute an effective and comprehensive communication strategy and actively engage alumni in the life of the University. The Office of Advancement works with friends and alumni to help them know and understand the unique position of Southern Miss in higher education as the premier research university for the Gulf South. “This is an exceptionally exciting time to be at The University of Southern Mississippi,” said Wolf. “To be a part of a new administrative team led by Dr. Saunders that is focused on taking our University to new heights energizes our stakeholders and me. We have a great opportunity before us to bring together the elements necessary to communicate who we are and why we are deserving of our alumni and friends’ support; an opportunity to share in the story of Southern Miss as we connect our alumni and community to their stories of how the University changed their lives. We want to build something lasting and relevant in ensuring that our students today and our students tomorrow have opportunities to create their own stories of success and perseverance.” The USM Foundation is making exciting strides to further connect with Southern Miss family and friends. In
August, Aaron Vold joined the development team as the new assistant vice president of development. In this vital role, Vold oversees the University’s development activities, capital campaign planning, annual giving, major gifts and planned gifts. He is also responsible for directing the efforts of the University’s development officers assigned to each college. By focusing on the specific goals of each college, the development officers help obtain gracious support for academic programs at Southern Miss. Other key changes to the development team include J.T. Tisdale and Josh Hernandez, two ambitious individuals with a strong commitment to supporting the future of Southern Miss. Tisdale, senior director of development, oversees the Southern Miss annual fund in addition to serving as director of development for the College of Science and Technology. With the assistance of Hernandez as director of corporate and foundation relations, Tisdale is creating a vibrant annual fund campaign that will impact the most important asset of Southern Miss - its students.
With its focus on the University’s Centennial Celebration in 2010, the Alumni Association is utilizing the advantages of being a part of the advancement division. “The new structure creates an opportunity for more interaction and coordination between the three areas of advancement that aids in our efforts to advance the interests of the University from all perspectives,” said Bob Pierce, executive director of the Alumni Association. As a part of the advancement team, the Alumni Association has a strong support system as they grow their 20,000 in 2010 Membership Campaign. “University Advancement has undergone an organizational renaissance,” said University President Martha Saunders. “The bringing together of our three departments that touch the lives of our alumni, friends and greater public allows Advancement to position itself as an organization, poised to add value and integrate our strategic values.” With an ambitious vision for Southern Miss, the Office of Advancement is determined to achieve the goals for advancing the University. “No matter how our family and friends choose to support the University, every gift of any amount makes a difference,” said Wolf. “Each gift greatly impacts the lives of both current and future students at Southern Miss.”
T h e tota l s c hol a r s h i p s u pp ort f or t h e U n i v e rs i t y from the USM F o u n dat ion wa s $2,842,292.33 in the 2008 fiscal year.
Below: Dr. David Wolf addresses members of the Honor Club at the Foundation’s annual gala.
The Department of Marketing and Public Relations is taking Southern Miss communications to a new level. With a new strategic communications plan in the works, they are focused on proving that Southern Miss is creative, bold and determined. By coordinating communications for the University through print, web and media relations, Marketing and Public Relations is strengthening the brand of Southern Miss while defining its unique identity. the university of southern mississippi advancement report • 9
The USM Foundation
i m pa c t e d 1 , 2 7 5 s t u de n ts t h r o u g h s c hol a r s h i p s in the 2008 fiscal year.
t h e u n i v e r s i t y of s o u t h e r n m i ss i ss i ppi f o u n dat ion John Forstall, Biochemistry Major, Freshman
Pearls of Wisdom and
Determination
o s h e r f o u n dat ion m a k e s $ 1 , 0 0 0 , 0 0 0 g i f t to s u pp ort l i f e long l e a r n i ng Sue Pace learned at a young age the value of what she affectionately calls “seasoned adults.” “I can remember my grandmother saying, ‘Sue, you need to always remember to be kind and patient with older people because they have so many pearls of wisdom.’ Her advice sparked my affection for older adults,” said Pace. With a rooted background in working with retired adults, Pace and her husband Bill Pace moved to Hattiesburg in 1989, where she became the director of continuing education at The University of Southern Mississippi. Pace enjoyed her position, but also wanted to focus on her compassion for older adults. “I always dreamt of a member-driven, community-based organization that allowed retired adults to satisfy their thirst for knowledge,” said Pace. “Senior adults have so much energy and such varied educational backgrounds. I wanted an organization where they could learn from each other through peer-taught programs.” Determined to make her dream a reality, Pace proposed a three-year plan to then University president, Dr. Aubrey K. Lucas, assuring him that she could establish the organization with just $3,000. In 1991, with 94 charter members, Pace founded the Institute for Learning in Retirement (ILR). Since then, the Institute has continued to flourish. To meet the needs of the growing organization, the ILR raised $750,000 to expand their facilities. In 2005, the Institute received a $100,000 gift from the Bernard Osher Foundation and changed its name to the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI). To be considered for renewal, the Institute pledged to build membership to more than 500 members within three years.
“At that time, we were the smallest-populated area seeking a grant from the Osher Foundation,” said Pace. “Most of the organizations Mr. Osher had funded were in major metropolitan areas.” Once again, Pace proved her determination by obtaining 543 members in the spring of 2008. After demonstrating potential for success and sustainability, OLLI at Southern Miss received a $1 million endowment from the Osher Foundation. “Because of this endowment, there will be earnings available so that our grandchildren will have a place to learn and enjoy friendships when they become ‘seasoned adults’,” said Pace. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute is more than just an educational institute. It is a second home for its members, where family and relationships are formed. “Friendships are abundant. Two marriages began right here at OLLI,” said Pace. “This Institute has proven that life can be meaningful, exciting and fun, and that these truly are the best years of your life.” Pace now has the chance to pass her pearls of wisdom on to the newly appointed director of OLLI, Susan Bone. “I am excited to retire and enjoy OLLI as a member,” said Pace. “All these years and I have never been able to take a class!” For more information on OLLI at Southern Miss, contact Susan Bone at 601.261.1346. Opposite page: Members of OLLI participate in a class on watercolor painting at the Peck House’s outdoor pavillion.
the university of southern mississippi advancement report • 13
and sorority members also pay chapter dues that fund the chapter room rental fee. Moving from Wilbur Hall to a new state-of-the-art facility would increase the rental fee by $6,500. Determined to not let the collegians assume this financial burden alone, the sorority alumnae chapters pulled together to come up with a unique way to fund the increase in rent. Members from each sorority’s alumnae chapter met with the USM Foundation and Sid Gonsoulin, associate vice president for the Office of Student Affairs, to discuss fundraising opportunities. A fund was created for The Village that would be used to pay down the bond of the complex and allow donations to be given with preference to a particular house. Five of the nine sorority chapters established endowments to support the bond. With construction underway, the chapters had little time for fundraising. “With the help of a dear friend, I organized a campaign committee of women who love Tri Delta and were willing to give their time and talents to work for this cause,” said Martha Thornton, chair of the “Celebrate us Home” Tri Delta Fundraising Campaign and president of Phi Epsilon House Corporation Board of Directors.
A Creative Chapter in the
southern miss story
a l um n i d on at e to b u i l d t h e v i l l a g e f or s t u de n ts
It has been said that it takes a village…
but building one takes a special attribute. Such a village at The University of Southern Mississippi resulted from a creative vision that began in the early ‘90s with a few dedicated alumnae and a lot of determination. “It was our dream to have a nicer facility for the sorority women,” said Mary Dayne Gregg, a Chi Omega alumna. “We would talk about it and dream about it, knowing that it would take a village to become competitive with other universities’ Greek systems.” This dream came to fruition in 2005 when the University began drafting plans for the new complex that would consist of nine houses, two duplex units and a 60-bed residence hall. The Village would house upper-class female students, including sorority members, honor students, scholarship recipients and athletes. As all other dormitory residences on campus, the University owns The Village. The residents pay an increased room rate
A dedication ceremony was held at The Village on May 1, 2008, beginning with a gathering outside, followed by individual ceremonies. Many of the rooms in each facility were named in honor of donors whose generosity made the complex possible. These honors were unveiled with heart-felt gratitude at ceremonies hosted by each chapter. “This new residential facility is an exciting living and learning community for Greek women at Southern Miss,” said Southern Miss President Martha Saunders. “I am grateful to all of you who helped write this success story and honored by your commitment to the enhancement of the lives of our students.” Through the fundraising efforts of the sorority alumnae chapters, The Village campaign raised over $1 million. With an overwhelming response to a highly successful campaign, many of the endowments will have a spending allocation in excess of the amount needed to support the bond. This will allow scholarships to be provided to students at the University.
“ This
n e w r e s i de n t i a l
fa c i l i t y i s a n e xc i t i ng l i v i ng a n d l e a r n i ng
Each sorority directed its own fundraising campaign through its housing corporation and alumnae chapter, reaching out to alumnae and friends for support. Members of each chapter met throughout the campaign to share their plans and results.
comm u n i t y f or w om e n at
“Sorority advisers and alumnae chapter presidents held regular committee meetings with Residence Life, Student Affairs and Greek Life staff to discuss our progress,” said Dr. Cathy Sessums, a member of the Hattiesburg Phi Mu alumnae chapter.
“In this day and age, so many students try to balance academics, campus involvement and work; their lives are so hectic,” said Gregg. “It can be a challenge for women to hold an office in a sorority. Offering scholarships will make being in a sorority and being a leader more attractive.”
The sorority women were astounded by the generous response they received. Many of the donations came from alumnae who had been out of touch with the University and first-time donors who had a passion for Southern Miss. “These women opened their pocketbooks and their hearts for a cause they firmly believed in,” said Gregg. In the fall of 2007, the sorority women transitioned from a traditional residence hall to a state-of-the-art complex, where each house consists of 30 beds, a chapter room, study rooms and a kitchen complete with Viking appliances.
S o u t h e r n M i ss .
”
The Village is not just a residential facility with standard dorm rooms inhabited by students. Each room tells a story, a story of sisterhood, leadership and of a promise for a bright future for women at Southern Miss. Opposite page: Lauren Sentell, Marketing Major, and Tiffany Skremetti, Exercise Science/Pre-Physical Therapy Major, relax in one of The Village’s new houses.
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The University is r a n k e d a m ong t h e top 5 0 i n t h e c o u n t ry f or c h e m ic a l r e s e a r c h f u n d i ng by t h e n at ion a l s c i e nc e f o u n d at ion .
t h e u n i v e rs i t y of s o u t h e r n m i ss i ss i ppi r e s e a r c h f o u n d at ion Stacy Kirkland, Polymer Science and Engineering, Graduate Student
“ I n on e g e n e r at ion , S o u t h e r n M i ss h a s d on e w h at no on e g av e i t pe r m i ss ion to d o : be c o m e a c o m pr e h e n s i v e r e s e a r c h u n i v e r s i t y w i t h fa c u lt y a n d pr o g r a ms t h at a r e d e m on s t r a bly w or l d c l a ss . ”
Creating a Rich Environment
for research
The ability to inspire great thinkers in the pursuit of knowledge is the hallmark of a great university, and it is this kind of environment that is enhanced through a robust research environment. Actively engaging faculty and students in scholarly activities is a priority for growing the overall research enterprise at Southern Miss says President Saunders. “We are committed to seeking ways to fund important projects that have realworld applications.” Building innovation and commercialization clusters around core academic programs provides a foundation for bringing intellectual discoveries to fruition through startup companies. In fact, the University is now home to
15 active Mississippi University Research Authority-created companies, the largest number of any university in the state. “If the research enterprise was an industry unto itself, it would comprise a payroll of $60 million for more than 700 people, all within a public institution,” says Dr. Cecil Burge, vice president for Research and Economic Development. “In one generation, Southern Miss has done what no one gave it permission to do: become a comprehensive research university with faculty and programs that are demonstrably world class.” Below: Associate Biology Professor Jacob Schaefer’s National Science Foundation-funded research projects are aimed at studying the ecology of small fishes and helping improve the University’s biological collections.
S o u t h e r n M i ss f o c u s e s on be i ng t h e pr e m i e r r e s e a r c h u n i v e rs i t y f or t h e G u l f S o u t h Whether it’s searching for new ways
to meet the country’s demand for seafood or formulating marine coatings to save the military millions of dollars by rust proofing its carriers, the research enterprise at The University of Southern Mississippi continues to flourish. Southern Miss scholars earned $91 million in external funding for research and sponsored programs in fiscal year 2007-08 for a three-year average of $97.1 million. Efforts to grow and maintain external research funding have resulted in consistent growth since 2000, hitting a high of $102 million in 2006. Researchers in the College of Science and Technology led all University areas in growth with a total of $52 million in external funding, up $9 million from the previous year. The College of Health also recorded a surge of grant funding with $15.1 million, a $3.9 million increase from the previous year. The College of Arts and Letters also recorded an increase to $1.6 million, up from $561,705 last year. The College of Education and Psychology recorded a total of $3.3 million in research funding.
“We were able to sustain the relative size of the enterprise by improving our ability to acquire competitive grants,” said President Martha Saunders. “We are encouraged by the quality and size of our competitive awards this year that included those from both the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health.” In the biological sciences department alone, faculty members directed five National Science Foundationfunded projects over the last year, according to Dr. Frank Moore, department chair and professor. Research topics included the study of patterns of fish biodiversity and related conservation implications; the spread of West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus; and the study of carbon deposits in marine sediments and related implications for global warming. “We have a very active and research-oriented department,” said Moore. “This is evidence of how this University is growing and maturing the overall research enterprise.”
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“Because of the training I have received here, I have been invited to give numerous talks; I am now sitting on National Science Foundation review panels and reviewing manuscripts for journals and generally have become visible on a national level,” said Johnson. “My training at Southern Miss has truly prepared me for my future as a professor.”
at wor k
u n i v e r s i t y fa c u lt y c l a i m com pe t i t i v e g r a n ts f or m e a n i ng f u l r e s e a r c h
Research pursuits of faculty not only provide ideas for commercialization, but
also invite recognition among peers throughout the academic community. Faculty successes also enhance the University’s stature as a major research institution across both corporate and governmental organizations. Dr. Crystal N. Johnson, microbiologist and assistant research professor at Southern Miss’ Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, is getting plenty of attention among peers around the country as an aspiring scientist with solid academic credentials. She recently received a four-year
grant totaling $2.3 million from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institutes of Health to lead a collaborative team in the study of pathogenic vibrios as part of its Ecology of Infectious Diseases program. “Since Dr. Johnson joined my lab in 2005, she has matured into a first-rate scientist whose skills are well recognized among peers,” said professor Jay Grimes. “Her recent award from the NSF is testimony to her many accomplishments and will no doubt serve her well in securing more grants and in becoming a role model for underrepresented, aspiring scientists.”
impact results
Among the 349 awards received by Southern Miss researchers last year were these:
Dr. Jennifer Owen, a wildlife disease ecologist and assistant professor at Michigan State University, spent 11 years at Southern Miss as a doctoral student and held a postdoctoral appointment in the lab of Dr. Frank Moore, chairman of the Department of Biological Sciences. Owen credits Moore and the collaborative environment at Southern Miss for preparing her for a promising faculty tenure-track position.
• An $8 million grant from the Department of Defense was awarded to Drs. Shelby Thames and James Rawlins in the School of Polymers and High Performance Materials for the creation of a new national composites center. The funding will support an extensive array of research projects by at least a dozen faculty members and graduate students that will support the marine industry.
“I could not be doing what I am without that opportunity,” said Owen. “Southern Miss helped facilitate my research in so many ways.”
• A $6.6 million award to Drs. Bill Hawkins, Reginald Blaylock and Jeff Lotz, professors of coastal sciences, from the U.S. Department of Commerce, which will provide for the construction of facilities and infrastructure at the Cedar Point Marine Aquaculture Center.
“Dr. Owen’s is a nice success story,” said Moore. “She earned her doctorate under my direction, studying the immune system of migratory birds.” Owen spent the past four years coordinating a National Science Foundation grant that expanded the understanding of how migratory birds might figure in the appearance of West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis.
Creative Minds
Bold Ideas
• A $2 million National Institutes of Health grant was awarded to Dr. Kathy Yadrick, chair of the Department of Nutrition and Food Systems, for a five-year communitybased participatory research intervention to increase walking in Hattiesburg.
Dr. Michael Neiberg’s contributions to the field of history have earned notice from the History News Network, which named The University of Southern Mississippi military expert one of its Top Young Historians this year.
• A $3.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is helping underwrite the training of an estimated 5,370 officials at 1,055 institutions nationwide on sport security management through the Center for Spectator Sports Security.
Recipients of the Top Young Historian designation are nominated and undergo a review process for their scholarly research and teaching skills, and are considered experts in their field within and outside of academia. “It is quite an honor to be among such distinguished company on this list,” Neiberg said. “I’m grateful to the people here at Southern Miss who have given me the support to make something like this possible.”
• A $670,254 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service provided opportunities for students to assist the National Forests in Mississippi in conducting archaeological testing on some 379,000 acres of hurricane-damaged forestlands in South Mississippi. Dr. James Flanagan, chair of the Department of Anthropology and Sociology, spearheaded the project.
Neiberg serves as co-director of the Center for the Study of War and Society for the Department of History, and his areas of expertise include World War I and American military history, among others. Opposite page: Microbiologist Dr. Crystal Johnson transfers a red dye that will be used as a pH (or acidity) indicator in agar.
• A $191,593 grant from the U.S. Department of Education to Drs. Anita Davis (music), Julie Cwikla (mathematics) and Chris Barry (psychology) will help create a continuous progress curriculum model for elementary and secondary schools. The aim of the project is to improve attitudes toward learning through interdisciplinary science and arts projects while increasing career awareness and graduation rates.
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deter mined minds
Seek Success
u n de r g r a d uat e r e s e a r c h at t r a c ts be s t a n d br ig h t e s t s t u de n ts The opportunity to conduct undergraduate research in a participative
learning environment gives Southern Miss students a competitive edge for national scholarships and graduate fellowships in addition to enhancing their career prospects. As Mississippi’s only recipient of a prestigious Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship last year, Ocean Springs native Justin Poelma is getting much-needed exposure to undergraduate research in polymer science, getting a head start on his career goal of becoming a university faculty researcher. “It’s a real honor because it affirms that people view you as having potential as a scientist who can contribute to the field,” said Poelma. Since his freshman year, Poelma has had the opportunity to get hands-on experience with cutting-edge research in the lab of polymer science professor Dr. Rob Storey, working on biomedical applications such as controlled drug release in the human body. A student in the Honors College, Poelma is also a finalist in the 2008 Marshall scholarship competition. “The senior honors component (thesis) that the college requires is very important,” Poelma said. “It teaches you to value individual research and it helped me in writing the essay required for the Goldwater.” With Jessica Shackleford’s selection as an honorable mention selection to USA Today’s 2008 All-USA
College Academic Team, she appears well on her way to a successful career as a professor conducting organic chemistry research. The honor is just another testament to the academic success of the junior chemistry major from Senatobia, one of few chosen to be part of a university research team normally comprised of graduate students. Shackleford was invited to join Dr. Doug Masterson’s Research Group as a second-semester freshman. “It’s not that often that an undergraduate gets this kind of opportunity,” said Shackleford. “But he (Masterson) took a chance on me, and I really appreciate it.” Shackleford has been involved in two group projects and has made presentations on her work at conferences hosted by the Mississippi Academy of Sciences and the American Chemical Society this year. Last year, she was selected as an undergraduate recipient of a Goldwater Scholarship for 2007-08, a prestigious national scholarship program for future scientists, mathematicians and engineers. Justin Poelma and Jessica Shackleford are proof that students at Southern Miss are obtaining the knowledge that advances the University as the premier research university of the Gulf South. Opposite page: Jessica Shackleford, left, a University of Southern Mississippi chemistry major, with her mentor, chemistry professor Dr. Doug Masterson in one of Southern Miss’ advanced science labs.
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The Southern Miss at h l e t ic f o u ndat ion h a s m or e t h a n 8 5 e n d o wm e n ts w i t h a c u r r e n t va l u e of n e a r ly $ 4 m i l l ion .
Shawn Nelson, Senior, Need his Major
t h e u n i v e rs i t y of s o u t h e r n m i ss i ss i ppi at h l e t ic f o u n d at ion
Shawn Nelson, Sports Administration Major, Senior
Creating the eagle experience s o u t h e r n m i ss at h l e t ic s b u i l d s n e w fa c i l i t i e s In April 2003, The University of Southern Mississippi Director of Athletics
Richard Giannini had a vision to give student-athletes and fans an extraordinary place to play and watch sporting events on the Hattiesburg campus. Giannini’s comprehensive facilities initiative sought marked improvements in every sporting venue, further ensuring a place for Southern Miss among the elite athletic programs in the nation. Giannini’s bold plans were resurrected in three stateof-the-art facility additions at Southern Miss. After running a successful fundraising campaign, Southern Miss baseball fans can cheer on the Golden Eagles in the newly renovated Pete Taylor Park/Hill Denson Field, complete with a new press box and luxury suites. With the completion of the new South End Zone addition at Carlisle-Faulkner Field at Roberts Stadium, fans can “Back the Attack” from 34 suites, the Touchdown Terrace club level and general admission
seating – so close they can feel like a part of the “Nasty Bunch.” The stadium renovation also included updates to the Eagle’s Nest club level on the east side of the stadium. Reed Green Coliseum received a modernized update and expansion, including larger team space with dressing rooms, meeting rooms, a team video room, training room, study area and weight training area. Further facility expansion plans include a new tennis facility adjacent to the campus and marked improvements to the Southern Miss Softball Complex featuring a new grandstand, press box, dressing room, concessions and restroom facilities. Not only determined on the playing field, the Golden Eagle athletic department is determined to house some of the finest athletic facilities in the nation. Below: Of Southern Miss’ 360 student athletes, 271 are attending on some type of athletic scholarship.
Sweet
determination w om e n ’ s b a s k e t b a l l t e a m a d va nc e s to w om e n ’ s n at ion a l i n v i tat ion to u r n a m e n t Southern Miss women’s basketball
turned a corner in the 2007-08 season. The Lady Eagles began the season expected to finish eighth in Conference USA. Instead, they went above and beyond, exceeding all expectations, finishing fifth in the conference and receiving a Women’s National Invitation Tournament (WNIT) bid for the first time since 2000. During the final month of the regular season, the Lady Eagles won six of their final nine games, reaching the C-USA tournament semifinal. Because of their strong finish in the regular season and league tournament, Southern Miss women’s basketball was awarded its first postseason bid. The Lady Eagles started off the postseason tournament with a bang as they defeated UALR, 67-57. During the second game, Pauline Love drained a 3-pointer with 2.3 seconds left to grab a 62-61 win over Mississippi State, sending the Lady Eagles into the WNIT “Sweet 16.” After a loss to Michigan, the team ended the season with a 21-14 record, 8-8 in C-USA play, making it the most wins since the 1995-96 season. Left: Pauline Love, a sports coaching education major, prepares to score for the Lady Eagles during the Women’s National Invitation Tournament (WNIT).
The University of Southern Mississippi Advancement Report • 27
black, gold
a nd
Bold
coa c h l a r ry f e d or a l e a d s g ol de n e agl e s w i t h n e w g a m e pl a n What constitutes the beginning of an era? A monumental change, or perhaps a significant
development of a program destined for success. The Fedora Era of Southern Miss football began with a promise for a bold future. In December 2007, Southern Miss Director of Athletics Richard Giannini announced the hiring of Larry Fedora as the 18th head football coach of the Southern Miss Golden Eagles. “Larry Fedora is an outstanding person with a great work ethic, drive and passion to be successful,” said Giannini. “He has an engaging personality and will interact very well with our athletes, students, faculty and fans.” With an outstanding track record including offensive coordinator at Oklahoma State and three seasons at the University of Florida, Fedora joined the Golden Eagles with one goal in mind – Attack! “General George S. Patton said, ‘Instead of waiting to see what might develop, attack constantly, vigorously, and viciously. Never let up, never stop, always attack.’ And that is what our program is going to be built on,” said Fedora. “We’re going to attack all the time, on offense, defense and special teams. We’re going to be explosive.” Fedora worked diligently during spring and summer training to build his program. Practices were intense and players were pushed to their limits, but he had to challenge the team.
because every game is a big game,” said Fedora. “You only have so many opportunities to go out there and play this game – the greatest game on earth – and when you get a chance, you should play it like it is supposed to be played – hard.” The energy and enthusiasm brought by Fedora is evident not only on the football field, but among the fans that bleed black and gold. After celebrating four consecutive wins, 7,000 Southern Miss fans traveled to New Orleans to see the Golden Eagles defeat the Troy Trojans 30-27 in overtime in the R + L Carriers New Orleans Bowl. Fedora finished the season as the 15th consecutive winning season for the Golden Eagles.
“ We’re
g oi ng to at ta c k
a l l t h e t i m e , on of f e n s e , d e f e n s e a n d s pe c i a l t e a ms . W e ’ r e g oi ng to be e x plo s i v e .
”
“He has the best interest of the student-athlete at heart and is poised for a successful future,” said Southern Miss President Martha Saunders. “We all look forward to a long and successful Fedora era.” Opposite page: Surrounded by the Southern Miss Golden Eagles, new head football coach Larry Fedora greets fans during the pre-game Eagle Walk parade.
“I really believe you play the game hard, you play aggressive and it doesn’t matter when or who you play,
the university of southern mississippi advancement report • 29
The Southern Miss Alumni Association
includes prominent members s u c h a s NFL q u a r t e r b a c k l e g e n d B r e t t F a v r e , m u s i c i a n j i mm y b u f f e t t, I r on C h e f C at C or a a n d Lt. G o v e r nor of M i ss i ss i p p i P h i l B rya n t.
Phil Bryant, Mississippi Lt. Governor, Class of 1977
t h e u n i v e r s i t y of s o u t h e r n m i ss i ss i ppi a l um n i a ss o c i at ion
Association,” said executive director Bob Pierce. “Along with the University, we are boldly moving full speed ahead into the second century of Southern Miss. We are eagerly anticipating the completion of the expansion and restoration of the Ogletree House and are looking forward to thousands of alumni reconnecting with the University during our 20,000 in 2010 Membership Campaign in conjunction with the University’s Centennial Celebration.”
“ While
this is a
c h a l l e ng i ng a n d a m bi t io u s i n i t i at i v e , I a m con f i de n t t h at a l um n i w i l l r e s p on d to t h e i r A l m a M at e r a s t h e y h av e i n t h e pa s t, w i t h More than 16,000 strong from all 50 states,
Building a Bold
organization T h e S o u t h e r n M i ss A l um n i Ass o c i at ion l a u nc h e s a m bi t io u s m e m be r s h i p c a m pa ig n
the members of the Southern Miss Alumni Association are making a difference across Mississippi, the Gulf South and the nation. While virtually everyone will recognize some of the organization’s most famous Life Members like Jimmy Buffett and Brett Favre, the Association is also comprised of business leaders and entrepreneurs, teachers and school administrators, scientists and doctors and nurses. Its members possess the ingenuity of Grammy-winning producer Tena Clark and the perseverance of Golden Eagle football legend Reggie Collier, who returned to school two decades after he left to complete his academic degree. With its many achievements, it should be no surprise that the Association experienced a great deal of success in 2007-08. The organization successfully completed a $3 million fundraising effort to restore and expand the Ogletree House, the home for alumni on the Hattiesburg campus, and launched the most ambitious membership campaign in its history, 20,000 in 2010. “This is an exciting time for the Southern Miss Alumni
loya lt y a n d de dic at ion .
”
The success of the Ogletree House Campaign provided additional proof of the determined spirit of Southern Miss alumni as well as their loyalty to their Alma Mater in the face of significant obstacles. The campaign began just weeks prior to Hurricane Katrina. Upon its conclusion more than 900 alumni and friends of the University had contributed and committed more than $3.25 million to the effort, representing 108 percent of the original goal. “We are so grateful to the generous alumni and friends of the University and Alumni Association who stepped forward to support this important project,” said campaign co-chair Lou Ann Poynter. “The campaign faced many challenges along the way, but the hard work of the campaign committee and Association staff enabled us to overcome these obstacles.”
Jim Payne followed Poynter as the Association’s president in July and leads an executive committee that is guiding the organization toward the completion of the Ogletree House. Payne has a long and distinguished history with The University of Southern Mississippi that dates back to his days as a student on the Hattiesburg campus in the early 1960s. Payne was selected as the outstanding marketing student in 1964 and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business management that same year. Today, he is among the University’s most dedicated alumni. Among his top priorities is to ensure that the Association’s 20,000 in 2010 Membership Campaign makes significant progress. Pierce says the 20,000 in 2010 Membership Campaign surpasses the Ogletree House Campaign as the boldest effort undertaken by the Association in years. “This is a significant step for the Association,” Pierce said. “Although Southern Miss alumni join at rates competitive with similar organizations across the country, at 20,000 members we will greatly exceed the national average for participation percentage. While this is a challenging and ambitious initiative, I am confident that alumni will respond to their Alma Mater as they have in the past, with loyalty and dedication.” Membership in the Association is $35 per year. Threeyear, life and joint memberships are also available. For more information, call 601.266.5013 or visit ReconnectwithSouthernMiss.com Opposite page: President Martha Saunders, Ogletree House Campaign Co-Chairs Dr. Aubrey K. Lucas and Lou Ann Poynter, Frances Ogletree and others perform the groundbreaking ceremony for the restoration and expansion of the Ogletree House.
The TheUniversity Universityof ofSouthern SouthernMississippi MississippiAdvancement AdvancementReport Report• •33 36
Scores of
CREATIVITY a l um n a t e n a c l a r k ’ s c r e at i v i t y i s r e wa r d e d w i t h m u s ic a l s u cc e ss
The “ah-ha” moment for Southern Miss alumna Tena Clark came at a red light in Pasadena, Calif. A familiar sound resonated from the convertible that pulled up next to her vehicle. The sweet voice was Dionne Warwick. The tune was even more familiar; Clark herself had penned it. “I rolled down the window and said to the woman in the car, ‘Excuse me. I wrote that song,’” Clark recalled. “She looked at me and said, ‘Yeah right.’ So I had one moment of excitement, but then I thought, ‘No one is going to believe me.’”
Nevertheless, the Waynesboro native knew she had arrived. Clark is just one example of how a Southern Miss alumna pursued her goals and captured her dream. Clark has written hits for Warwick, Patti LaBelle, LeAnn Rimes, Chaka Khan, Natalie Cole, Patti Austin, Aretha Franklin and Sara Evans, among others. In addition, her songs have been featured in many movies and television shows including My Best Friend’s Wedding, Where the Heart Is, Hope Floats, French Kiss, Twins, ER, Friends, South Park, General Hospital and CBS This Morning. Clark is a Grammy-winning producer and the founder and chief executive officer/ chief creative officer of DMI Music & Media Solutions. Under Clark’s leadership, DMI has successfully conceived, developed and executed some of the most successful and popular music branding campaigns for the world’s most recognized brands. While the development of work heard by millions could prove daunting for some, it is no trouble for a woman blessed with creativity fostered at The University of Southern Mississippi.
A Determined
force
r e g g i e c ol l i e r a c h i e v e s a c a d e m ic s u c c e ss
Reggie Collier was known as a dual threat with the ability to dismantle defenses with his legs or arms during his time as a Southern Miss quarterback in the 1980s. In 1981, Collier was the first Division I-A quarterback to both rush and pass for 1,000 yards. Upsets were common during those days as Eagle Fever took hold of the South, while Collier and a gritty group of determined Golden Eagles posted wins over Alabama, Florida State, Ole Miss, Mississippi State and others. Those highly regarded opponents, however, failed to test Collier’s perseverance to the extent of another challenge he faced years later. He continued to enjoy a professional career that included a stint with the Dallas Cowboys, but one thing was missing. Two decades after leaving Hattiesburg, Collier returned to Southern Miss to earn a degree in sports administration, even earning a spot on the Dean’s List. Today, Collier is the coordinator of athletic development and community relations for the Eagle Club and conveys the importance of earning a degree to young Southern Miss athletes. “No doubt I made a good decision to come back and finish what I started, where I started,” he said. All it took was a bit of determination.
The University of Southern Mississippi Advancement Report • 35
Impact in numbers
The University of Southern Mississippi
U S M F o u n dat ion
M a rt h a D . S a u n de rs , Ph . D .
1,275
President
Students impacted by USM Foundation scholarships
R obe rt Ly m a n , Ph . D .
$2,842,292
Provost
Fiscal Year 2008 scholarship support to the University
Dav i d F. W ol f, Ph . D .
$2,616,268
Vice President for Advancement
Fiscal Year 2008 non-scholarship support to the University
Joe M or g a n
$78,624,413
Chief Financial Officer
$59,478,124
Vice President for Student Affairs
Total net assets at end of Fiscal Year 2008
Joe Pa u l , Ph . D .
Market value of endowments at end of Fiscal Year 2008
C e c i l B u r g e , Ph . D .
732
Total number of endowments
u n i v e r s i t y R e s e a r c h f u n di ng
$77,514,942
Fiscal Year 2008 support from U.S. Federal agencies
$4,038,653
Fiscal Year 2008 support from State of Mississippi agencies
$9,024,911
Fiscal Year 2008 support from private foundations and corporations
$90,578,506
Total Fiscal Year 2008 support for University research
S o u t h e r n M i ss A l um n i Ass o c i at ion
16,160
Total membership at end of Fiscal Year 2008
3,994
Total Life Members at end of Fiscal Year 2008
S o u t h e r n M i ss At h l e t ic F o u n d at ion
271
Students impacted by Southern Miss Athletic Foundation scholarships
$1,801,159
Fiscal Year 2008 scholarship support to the University
$2,182,859
Fiscal Year 2008 non-scholarship support to the University
$7,223,633
Total net assets at end of Fiscal Year 2008
Vice President for Research and Economic Development
Office of Advancement David F. Wolf, Ph.D. Vice President David.Wolf@usm.edu 601.266.6025
USM Foundation
David F. Wolf, Ph.D. Executive Director David.Wolf@usm.edu 601.266.6025 Aaron Vold Assistant Vice President of Development Aaron.Vold@usm.edu 601.266.5602 Jennifer Boucher Chief Financial Officer Jennifer.Boucher@usm.edu 601.266.6994 J.T. Tisdale Senior Director of Development for the College of Science and Technology James.Tisdale@usm.edu 601.266.4887 John Sherk Development Officer for the College of Arts and Letters John.Sherk@usm.edu 601.266.5922 Shannon Woodward Director of Development for the College of Business Shannon.Woodward@usm.edu 601.596.4811
Leigh Todd Development Officer for the College of Education and Psychology Leigh.Todd@usm.edu 601.266.5501 Meredith Cothern Development Officer for the College of Health Meredith.Cothern@usm.edu 601.266.6100 Keith Dale Development Officer for Planned Giving Keith.R.Dale@usm.edu 601.266.5375 Josh Hernandez Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations Joshua.Hernandez@usm.edu 601.266.5916 USM Department of Marketing and Public Relations
Jana Bryant, M.S. Associate Director Jana.Bryant@usm.edu 601.266.4491 Southern Miss Alumni Association
Bob Pierce Executive Director Bob.Pierce@usm.edu 601.266.6796
Office of Research and Economic Development
Cecil Burge, Ph.D. Vice President Cecil.Burge@usm.edu 601.266.5116 USM Research Foundation
Jay Grimes, Ph.D. President of the Board of Directors Jay.Grimes@usm.edu 228.872.4210
Department of Athletics Richard Giannini Director of Athletics Richard.Giannini@usm.edu 601.266.5422
Southern Miss Athletic Foundation
Richard Giannini Chief Executive Officer Richard.Giannini@usm.edu 601.266.5422 Christi Holloway Chief Financial Officer Christi.Holloway@usm.edu 601.266.5299
118 College Drive #10026 Hattiesburg, MS 39406-0001 601.266.5602 www.usm.edu/foundation AA/EOE/ADAI PCS 59841.10026