Appalchian Today Spring 2009

Appalachian Today Spring 2009

Moore

North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame Inductee

Appalachian State University’s Magazine

Appalachian Today Volume 17

s

Number 1

Appalachian Today is published by the Office of University Communications in the University Advancement Division twice annually for alumni, faculty, staff and friends of Appalachian State University. It is funded through unrestricted gifts to The Appalachian Fund. Please send correspondence to Patrick Setzer, Managing Editor, Appalachian Today, University Communications, Appalachian State University, PO Box 32153, Boone, NC 286082153.

www.today.appstate.edu Chancellor

Kenneth E. Peacock Vice Chancellor for University Advancement

Susan Pettyjohn Executive Editor

Lynn Drury Managing Editor

Patrick Setzer ’90 ’98 Art Director

Roslyn Howard ’83 Contributing Designers

Sarah McBryde ’97 Lindsay Parker Sutton ’04 ’06 Senior Writer/Editor

Linda Coutant ’01 MA

Banff Mountain Film Festival The Unbearable Lightness of Skiing Photo by Greg Hill, courtesy of The Banff Centre

©

Rosen Sculptures Installation

Contributing Writers

Kate Cahow ’08 MA Megan Hayes ’97 Denise Ringler Krystal Stewart ’07 Stephanie Naoum Photographers

Marie Freeman ’86 Mike Rominger ’76 Troy Tuttle ’07

Leahy performs at An Appalachian Summer Festival

Web Design

Pete Montaldi ’89 Address changes should be sent to:

stewartkl@appstate.edu

Appalachian State University: www.appstate.edu Alumni Affairs: www.alumni.appstate.edu Athletics: www.goasu.com University Advancement: www.give.appstate.edu

Appalachian State University is committed to equality of educational opportunity and does not discriminate against applicants, students or employees on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disabling condition or sexual orientation. Appalachian also actively promotes diversity among students and employees.

55,000 copies of this document were printed at a cost of $24,856, or 45 cents per copy.

©2009 Appalachian State University

6th Annual Appalachian Mountain Photography Competition Robert & Shiiko Alexander, Neal’s Grocery, Digital photography, 2007.

Image courtesy of AMPC ‘08

For a complete listing of cultural events on campus and admission information, visit Appalachian’s Arts Calendar at www.thearts.appstate.edu.

Pilobolus Dance performs at An Appalachian Summer Festival

chancellor’s column Staying committed to our mission in uncertain times All of us at Appalachian are concerned about the unprecedented economic changes in the United States and what they mean for North Carolina and our families. There are many uncertainties right now, but we are committed to being team players in the state as our leaders address these financial challenges. In that spirit, I will share with you how Appalachian has responded to the situation.

This past year all UNC institutions, including Appalachian, were asked to return 4 percent of their 2008-09 state appropriations. For us, this budget reversion equaled $4.9 million. We chose to take these funds primarily from the enrollment growth funding we had just received from the N.C. General Assembly, which means we did not hire additional faculty in our highest-needs areas. This was the least painful cut to make at the time, but as the legislature determines a two-year budget this spring, deeper cuts into our resources are expected. In fact, just before press time, another 2 percent reversion of our 2008-09 state appropriations, or $2.4 million, was requested by the state government. This brings the total budget reversion to $7.4 million, and we are being asked to prepare for 7 percent or a total of $8.6 million.

We have always been an efficient university, doing much with little, and we continue to exercise that character strength to our benefit. While our leadership team works with the UNC General Administration and Board of Governors to remind elected officials of the importance of public higher education to the state’s economy, we are maximizing our existing resources by strengthening our energy savings plan and filling only those positions that are critical to university operations. We have also curtailed travel and are limiting purchase orders as instructed by the State of North Carolina Office of Budget and Management.

Despite today’s financial challenges, our commitment to Appalachian’s core educational mission is unwavering. I assure you the university will continue to provide a high-quality education at as low a cost as possible, a characteristic recognized by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine which once again has named Appalachian one of the best public colleges and universities in the nation when comparing outstanding academic quality with affordability. Let’s not lose sight of the many other amazing accomplishments at Appalachian, including: • The ground breaking of our $35 million college of education building and the opening of a new, muchneeded central dining facility • The UNC Board of Governors’ approval of our new College of Health Sciences and Allied Professions • Our well-prepared graduates, including Christian Kucab ’08 who recently made a perfect score on the LSAT, the law school admissions test • Our industrial design majors who won the Juicy Ideas Entrepreneurial/Environmental Contest sponsored

by Google for their bicycle made from plastic drink bottles • The “community engagement” classification from the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching for Appalachian’s sustained commitment to collaborating with communities through teaching, research and outreach • The Appalachian ACCESS scholarship program, which in its second year has grown to 95 deserving and outstanding students who come from 40 counties across North Carolina • Our award-winning faculty members, such as the Department of Art’s Lisa N. Mitchell who was among 11 teachers in the U.S. to receive the Kappa Delta Pi Teacher of Honor designation We also benefited this past year from a historical increase in private donations to the university. We remain grateful to our supporters, because every gift allows us to provide needed assistance to students and their families affected by the economic downturn.

I hope members of the Appalachian Family will continue their support of this outstanding university in 2009. Please stay involved with Appalachian by volunteering your time, educating others about the value of public higher education, and making financial gifts whenever possible. Your support is greatly needed and appreciated.

With Mountaineer Pride,

Kenneth E. Peacock Chancellor

Appalachian Today Spring 2009

features

Muriel Rosen: A love for the arts and Appalachian

. . . . . . . . . 13

An Appalachian Summer Festival celebrates its 25th anniversary thanks to a Florida woman and her late husband who had a grand vision and the generosity to support it.

An early affinity for language

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Appalachian and Burke County Public Schools collaborate on a program to benefit children’s cognitive and academic growth.

Unexpected lessons in love . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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High state appropriations = a strong university system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Billy Riddle embarked on a mission trip to Sudan, his bags and preconceived ideas in tow. Upon seeing the people’s smiles, however, his “worldview crumbled, and God was no longer just the God I had bound between the leather cover of my Bible.”

North Carolina funds its university system better than most states.

State legislators explain why.

departments On Campus . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Remember When . . . . . . . . 26 Alumni News . . . . . . . . . . 28

on the cover Moore in a day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 University photographer Troy Tuttle captures a day in the life of head football coach Jerry Moore.

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Appalachian Today Spring 2009

Juicy Winners

A team of Appalachian students won the first national Juicy Ideas Entrepreneurial/ Environmental Contest sponsored by Google for designing a bicycle made from plastic drink bottles. The industrial design majors are, from left, junior Justin Henry, junior Spencer Price, junior Ryan Klinger and senior Andrew Drake.The contest asked college students to create something useful View current campus news, events and from a throw-away item. See a video feature articles at documenting their message of environmental responsibility at www.today.appstate.edu/jiv

Appalachian Today www.today.appstate.edu

Appalachian Today Spring 2009

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on campus

“

Quotes to Ponder I’m very, very happy that this is a place of “enlightenment that’s looking for new alternatives, new ways to employ energy in this country. ” –Environmental activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on Appalachian’s commitment to sustainability and green technology, during the Forum Lecture Series.

With your degree, you are poised to make a great “living; but my biggest wish for you is that each and every one of you have a great life. ” –Lt. Gov.-elect Walter H. Dalton to graduates during December 2008 commencement.

Kiplinger magazine names Appalachian a top value Appalachian ranked 29th in Kiplinger magazine’s 2008-09 list of the top 100 values in public colleges and universities in the nation.

The ranking was based on a combination of outstanding academic quality and the instate cost of attending the university, which is just more than $11,000.

Appalachian also has an affordable price tag for out-of-state students. Kiplinger’s ranked the university 27th in terms of the out-of-state cost, which is $21,252.

New institute enhances environmental research Appalachian is well known for its research related to alternative energy, sustainable development and the environment. The new Appalachian Research Institute for Environment, Energy and Economics will enhance that work.

The institute was approved by Appalachian’s Board of Trustees in December. John Pine, an internationally known expert on disaster management from Louisiana State University, will direct the institute.

Michael J. Turner, a native of Great Britain, is the first recipient of the Roy Carroll Distinguished Professorship of British History. He is pictured with Amanda Buring, MA student.

British scholar is first recipient of Carroll Professorship Michael J. Turner, a graduate of the University of Oxford and the University of Rochester, is the first recipient of the Roy Carroll Distinguished Professorship of British History.

A native of Great Britain, Turner joins the Department of History from the University of Sunderland, Great Britain, where he was a professor of modern history for the past eight years.

Appalachian’s history department has a strong tradition in the field of British history, supported by holdings in Belk Library and Information Commons. Appalachian also published the British history journal Albion, founded and edited by Mike Moore, for more than 30 years. Turner’s presence will promote and strengthen the awareness of both the

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Appalachian Today Spring 2009

tradition and its resources.

“The university has been very generous to me, giving me the time and support I need to do my research,” said Turner. “My primary role here is to publish and raise the profile of the department’s British studies component.”

Turner’s research focuses on Britain’s political history from the late 18th to mid-19th centuries. He is the author of six books and numerous articles in refereed journals, and is currently completing a series of manuscripts on British foreign policy.

The distinguished professorship in British history was named in honor of Roy Carroll, a former chair of the Department of History.

Carroll was instrumental in securing funds for the endowed chair.

“Creation of this institute is the culmination of three to four years of work at the university,” said Lorin Baumhover, chief of staff in the chancellor’s office. “We have approximately 75 faculty members across three colleges involved in different areas of environmental sciences, sustainable development, energy research and other related areas. This is becoming a significant set of programs at Appalachian.”

“This institute will help bring different academic areas together in a focused way that will truly bring us to the forefront of what we can do in this area,” said Michael Ramey, chair of Appalachian’s Faculty Senate and an assistant professor in the Department of Chemistry.

Appalachian’s Energy Center and the planned Southern Appalachian Environmental Research and Education Center will report to Pine. In addition, the university’s Center for Economic Research and Policy Analysis will work in collaboration with the institute.

on campus Faculty and Staff Kudos Eric Frauman, assistant professor in the Department of Health, Leisure and Exercise Science, is a founding member of the advisory council for the Journal of Outdoor Recreation, Education and Leadership.

Vicky Grube, an assistant professor of art, has been named the Higher Education Art Educator of the Year for 2008-09 by the North Carolina Art Education Association.

Leigh Ann Henion, an instructor in the Department of English, received a bronze prize in the 2007-08 Society of American Travel Writers Foundation’s Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Competition.

Donovan Leonard, assistant professor of physics, received the Outstanding Young Investigator Award from the Appalachian Regional Microscopy Society.

Valerie Midgett, First Year Seminar and Theatre and Dance, was awarded the North Carolina Arts Council Artist’s Fellowship for Choreography which recognizes a history and body of work over time.

Lisa N. Mitchell, a lecturer in the Department of Art, was one of 11 teachers from across the nation to receive the Kappa Delta Pi Teacher of Honor designation in 2008.

Chancellor Kenneth E. Peacock, received the Golden Eagle Award for Leadership from AdvantageWest, the economic development commission for the 23 western counties of Western North Carolina.

Janice Pope, interim chair of the Department of Communication, was elected to the board of directors for the Bridges Academic Leadership for Women Program in Chapel Hill.

Clyde Robbins, director of design and construction, received the President’s Council Award from the North Carolina chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects.

Travis Rountree, a part-time instructor in the Department of English, received the N.C. Housing Officers’ inaugural Faculty Partnership Award for enhancing the out-of-classroom experience.

Board of Trustees installs three new officers for 2009-11 Appalachian’s Board of Trustees has elected new officers for 2009-11. John M. Blackburn of Linville is the new chairman, Jeannine Underdown Collins of Boone is vice chair, and Hughlene B. Frank of Greensboro is secretary. Their two-year terms of office began in January.

Employee works 40 years at Appalachian Watauga County native Wanda Dages was 19 years old and fresh out of a twoyear business school when she became secretary for Appalachian’s Department of Music in 1968.

Dages, now administrative assistant to the dean, celebrated her 40th anniversary with the Wanda Dages was honored university last Defor 40 years of service to cember. Her tenure the university at a staff represents the lon- breakfast last fall. gest service record of anyone currently working at Appalachian.

Dages witnessed the Department of Music grow from a handful of faculty members and about 80 students into the Mariam Cannon Hayes School of Music with more than 80 faculty members and 500 students. She also helped five department chairs and two deans adapt to their new surroundings.

“I have been blessed with great people to work with, my co-workers especially,” said Dages. “And the students have been a joy.

After they graduate, some come back to visit.

It’s wonderful to see what they’ve done and to be remembered like that.”

According to Dean William G. Harbinson, Dages sets the tone in the dean’s office.

“She is patient and kind, and we all rely heavily upon her to manage the office and ensure things run smoothly,” Harbinson said.

“To put things in perspective, Wanda was the secretary when I came here as a freshman.”

New administrative posts Mary Faye Englebert has been named director of the Office of Extension and Distance Education. She previously was associate director of distance education at UNC Charlotte. Englebert will oversee recruitment for and delivery of undergraduate and graduate degree programs at off-campus sites in the region. Appalachian currently offers more than three dozen bachelor and master degree programs at community college sites in 10 counties, with nearly 1,500 students enrolled in Appalachian’s off-campus programs.

Maria Provost is the new executive director of advising and orientation. She had been the director of academic support systems for the Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters at Florida Atlantic University.

Carl Lanier is the new executive director of Appalachian Family Innovations (AFI), a research center and service branch of Appalachian’s Institute for Health and Human Services. A long-time veteran of child and family services, Lanier had worked for AFI for 16 years.

Maranda Maxey is the new director of the Office of Disability Services. She previously had been assistant director and has served as the interim director since May 2008.

NUMBERS

2,000

trays are available in Appalachian’s new dining hall, Rivers Steet Café and Sanford Commons, which opened in January on the former site of Broome-Kirk Gymnasium.

4,742

square feet of windows give the dining facility a fresh, airy feel.

84

years ago Welborn Cafeteria’s east wing opened. The east and west wings soon will be demolished for green space and Phase II of the new dining facility.

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on campus

Diversity Celebration: eight years running Every April for the past eight years, Appalachian has invited the world to its doorstep through the Diversity Celebration. This year’s event is scheduled for April 7.

The festival cultivates an appreciation and understanding of cultural differences through performances of local and regional artists, craft workshops, and ethnic foods prepared by local chefs. This free, educational event engages citizens of the region, thus strengthening the ties between university and community.

“Recognition of a common humanity is the first step in celebrating differences that inform our cultures, our values, and our ways of being in the world,” said Susan King, director of education and outreach with the Office of Equity, Diversity and Compliance.

“Every year people of all ages who attend the festival get the opportunity to experience this lesson,” King said.

The Diversity Celebration is funded in part by Appalachian’s Staff Council and Parents Association, and Watauga County Arts Council with Grassroots funds from the North Carolina Arts Council.

Learn more at www.celebration. appstate.edu or by calling 828-262-6252 or 828-262-2144.

Sustained commitment to communities honored Appalachian is one of 119 colleges and universities receiving the “community engagement” classification from the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.

The designation recognizes institutions that have internalized and sustained their commitment to collaborate with communities through teaching, research and outreach.

“The university is dedicated to using its resources to improve citizens’ lives in this region, state and nation,” said Provost Stan Aeschleman. “We not only recognize our obligation to provide public service but also the educational value of doing so.

Accordingly, we are committed to connecting what is learned in the classroom and laboratory to activities that promote the public good.”

Appalachian’s classification reinforces its commitment to the UNC system’s UNC Tomorrow initiative that calls for institutions to serve the regions where they are located and the people of North Carolina.

Both the university’s new general education curriculum, which takes effect next fall, and its strategic plan focus on community engagement.

Board of Governors grants approval for new college The UNC Board of Governors has approved the establishment of a College of Health Sciences and Allied Professions at Appalachian as well as a new dean’s position to lead the administrative unit.

The new structure will allow Appalachian to combine several related programs into one college. It will house Appalachian’s Department of Health, Leisure and Exercise Science, the Department of Nursing and the foods and nutrition degree programs, all currently housed in the College of Fine and Applied Arts.

Also moving to the new college will be the Department of Social Work currently housed in the College of Arts and Sci-

Summer Brook performs a Native American dance at a past year’s event.

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ences and the health management degree program housed in the Walker College of Business. The communication disorders degree programs currently based in the Reich College of Education may also become part of the new structure.

Faculty positions will report to the new dean by fall 2011.

LGBT Center opens Appalachian opened a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Center on campus last October in the Plemmons Student Union. It is one of just four of its kind in North Carolina.

The center provides a safe, welcoming and inclusive space for LGBT students and organizations, provides programming and support, and serves as a resource for the entire university community.

Creation of the center was recommended by the GLBT Task Force, commissioned

by Chancellor Kenneth E. Peacock in fall 2007, after task force members found that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered students, faculty and staff at Appalachian experience the climate for acceptance and appreciation differently from their nonLGBT peers.

“Appalachian is a growing, changing university,” Chancellor Kenneth E. Peacock said at the dedication ceremony Oct. 3. “Today’s dedication clearly states this university is committed to helping everyone to reach their full potential and believes that every person is valued and appreciated.”

More than 150 students visited the center in its first three months, many of them non-members of the LBGT community seeking information to better understand their peers. “We’re helping Appalachian learn more about the LGBT community which is helpful in opening up the campus to a greater understanding of diversity,” said Joyce Washington, the graduate assistant who staffs the center.

The LGBT Center is coordinated by the Office of Multicultural Student Development.

on campus NEH grant enhances Appalachian studies program

◗ NATIONAL CHAMPION CYCLISTS: Appalachian’s

cycling team has won two national championships already this season in Division II of the USA Cycling Collegiate National Championships and will attempt what no other cycling team has accomplished: a third national championship in the same season. Already champions in mountain bike and cyclocross, the Mountaineers will compete in road cycling May 8-10 in Fort Collins, Colo. In addition to the team titles, the Mountaineers earned two individual national championships in mountain bike and two conference titles (mountain bike and cyclocross) in the Atlantic Coast Cycling Conference during the current season.

The university has completed its first National Endowment for Humanities challenge grant, a one-to-four funding match that is strengthening the discipline of Appalachian studies.

Since December 2000, Appalachian has raised more than $1.3 million to create the Cratis D. Williams Humanities Endowment for Appalachian Studies. A gift of $333,000 from Irwin and Carol Belk last June launched the university over its goal of $1.2 million.

The endowment, which includes a $400,000 NEH match, now totals more than $1.8 million.

The endowment provides support and funding to university scholars, students and community members who study and research century-old perceptions and stereotypes of the Appalachian region and its diverse peoples.

“With endowment funding, we’re better able to learn from and make visible the diversity too often overlooked in Appalachia’s history,” said Patricia D. Beaver, director of the university’s Center for Appalachian Studies.

“A look at the region’s education, commerce, census data, church and governmental records reveals what we call ‘the beginning of a new Appalachian history.’”

The endowment is named for Cratis D. Williams, a faculty member and administrator at Appalachian from 1946 to 1976. He is considered the father of Appalachian studies. Appalachian is the only university in the country to offer a master’s degree in this field.

The Belks’ gift, in addition to helping the university meet its goal for the challenge grant, established the Distinguished Professorship for the W.L. Eury Appalachian Collection Librarian. Fred Hay, the current W.L. Eury Appalachian Collection Librarian, is the first recipient of the distinguished professorship.

“Both the professorship and completing our NEH challenge grant are great milestones for the university and Belk Library and Information Commons,” said University Librarian Mary Reichel. “We are honored and thankful that the Belks continue to be

such great supporters.”

Specifically, the endowment provides funding for: • Appalachian studies faculty and students to document the diversity, cultural history and music of the region • Graduate student and teacher participation in Mountain-to-Mountain study abroad experiences between mountain cultures of the world • Five student scholarships: Edward J. Cabbell Fund, Carl Ross Scholarship, William Friday Scholarship, Doc Watson Scholarship, and Anne and Alex Bernhardt Scholarship As part of the NEH challenge grant, the university’s Visiting Writers Series was named for Hughlene Bostian Frank ’68, the Appalachian Cultural Museum developed exhibits on the Hickory Chair Company and North Carolina artist Bob Timberlake, and the W.L. Eury Appalachian Collection enhanced its holdings. These holdings include microfilmed newspapers from around the region, an extensive collection of regional maps, music collections including acquisitions of shape note hymnals, an archive of ethnographic/ folklore field notes, and manuscript collections and other rare materials.

Nursing program receives accreditation Appalachian’s bachelor of science degree in nursing, or RN to BSN program, received accreditation for the first time last fall from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. This initial accreditation is for a five-year term.

“Achieving accreditation through CCNE demonstrates faculty commitment to academic excellence, scholarship and service to our community within the mission of Appalachian State University,” said Wanda Stutts, chair of the Department of Nursing.

The CCNE is an autonomous accrediting agency that ensures the quality and integrity of baccalaureate and graduate nursing programs. As a voluntary, self-regulatory process, CCNE accreditation supports and encourages continuing self-assessment by nursing education programs, and supports continuing growth and improvement of collegiate professional education.

Learn more at www.nursing.appstate.edu.

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5:20 A.M. Coach Moore arrives at Owens Field House

5:45 A.M. Daily devotionals

Moore in a day

By University Photographer Troy Tuttle ’07

A photo essay of a typical day in the life of coach Jerry Moore, the highly regarded 20-year leader of Mountaineer football.

The Bonham, Texas, native’s 178-73 gridiron record at Appalachian represents the most successful in school and Southern Conference history. Coach Moore will be inducted into the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame in May as a member of the Class of 2009.

6:15 A.M. Game film study session

8:00 A.M. Coaches meeting

continued on next page

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Moore in a day

12:00 P.M. Daily workout

1:30 P.M. Recruitment meeting

5:00 P.M. Team practice

5:55 P.M. Practice wrap-up North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame - Class of 2009 AFCA National Coach of the Year 2005, 2006, 2007 Eddie Robinson Award (National Coach of the Year – The Sports Network) 2006 AFCA Regional Coach of the Year 1994, 1995, 2005, 2006 Southern Conference Coach of the Year 1991, 1994, 1995, 2005, 2006 7:30 P.M. Mountaineer Talk radio show with David Jackson

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Appalachian Today Spring 2009

9:30 P.M. Presentation to InterVarsity Christian Fellowship

10:00 P.M. Coach Moore and his wife, Margaret, end the day together

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Students and faculty performances light up the stage at Rosen Concert Hall at the Broyhill Music Center. Designed specifically for concerts and recitals, the hall is conducive to the many talented musicians who benefit from the longtime support of the Rosen family.

The Broyhill Chamber Ensemble, one of the mainstays of An Appalachian Summer Festival, is among the performance highlights of the renowned summer series. Muriel and her late husband, Arnold, were instrumental in forming the vision of the summer music festival which will celebrate its 25th anniversary in July.

The Community Arts School, housed in the Arnold P. Rosen Family Education Wing at the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts, provides a gateway for the local community to experience the visual arts in a dynamic, meaningful and personal way.

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Appalachian Today Spring 2009

Muriel Rosen: Photo by Robert Holmes

A love for the arts and Appalachian

By Megan Hayes ’97

When Muriel and Arnold Rosen first came to Appalachian State University administrators in the early 1980s to suggest that the university create a summer music series with their help, they could

“

Mrs. Rosen is a fabulous lady… It means a great deal to me to receive one of her scholarships because she, and therefore her generous scholarship, represent genuine caring and support for students like my peers and me. It is truly an honor.

”

Kari Tatum, senior music Education major and Appal PIE Scholarship recipient

not have imagined the tremendous impact their idea would have. Now, more than a quarter-century later, their summer music series will celebrate its 25th anniversary this year as An Appalachian Summer Festival.

Those who know the Rosens are not surprised by this accomplishment be-

cause they know that for Mrs. Rosen, as it was for her late husband, the arts are integral to quality of life.

“When we first spoke to the university, Arnold explained that giving

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Muriel Rosen: A love for the arts and Appalachian to the arts is more important than anything,” recalls Mrs. Rosen, who lives in Florida and keeps a summer home in the High Country.

“Music and the arts are handed down from generation to generation; without them, there would be no civilization.”

Learn more about: An Appalachian Summer Festival at www.appsummer.org Hayes School of Music at www.music.appstate.edu Center for Judaic, Holocaust and Peace Studies at www.holocaust.appstate.edu Carol Grotnes Belk Library and Information Commons at www.library.appstate.edu Turchin Center for the Visual Arts at www.turchincenter.org

What most excites Mrs. Rosen is that a new generation of arts supporters now enjoy An Appalachian Summer Festival. They tour the art exhibits; take in environmental and art films; attend music concerts that range from small venue chamber, jazz and pop to large venue symphony, folk, bluegrass, big band and country; experience world-class dance companies and innovative theatre productions; and enjoy hands-on experiences under the instruction of practicing artists.

Chancellor Kenneth E. Peacock believes that the festival “stands as a shining example of what can happen when donors as generous as Muriel and Arnold Rosen come together with a great university to create something truly extraordinary.” Peacock notes that while the festival has evolved over the past 25 years, “the original vision of a world-class arts festival, put forth and sustained by Muriel and Arnold, remains unchanged.”

Photo by Neil Schaffel

Muriel and Arnold Rosen

Those words now seem prophetic, as An Appalachian Summer Festival has become one of the university’s most vibrant, exciting attractions that enjoys the full-fledged support of the High Country. And, the festival returns many benefits that cultural tourism has to offer – generating business for local hotels, restaurants and retail shops. Patrons of the arts, local volunteers, businesses, music and art fans, university students, faculty and staff fully embrace what the festival offers.

Robert Snead, former vice chancellor for advancement, recalls meeting the Rosens during the initial planning stages. “The arts were their lives,” Snead said of the couple who had attended just a couple university events before sharing their vision. “They wanted to help young artists and the university at the same time, and the university was poised and ready to position itself as a leader in advancing the arts.”

From this desire to support young artists, the Rosens expanded their university support.

They were instrumental in beginning the Appal PIE Scholarships for students in the Hayes School of Music, sponsoring two of the seven initial scholarships. This program allows the school to select scholarship recipients based on music audition; the school then pairs selected students with donors, who agree to pay four years’ tuition for the students. There are 29 students currently receiving Appal PIE Scholarships.

Hayes School of Music Dean William Harbinson credits Mrs. Rosen for being among the most generous supporters of the Hayes School of Music and who is especially interested in helping students.

“She takes a personal interest in her scholarship students and develops relationships with them that last well beyond their student years,” he said. “She is a very effective advocate for the arts, and we are privileged to enjoy her support.”

Kari Tatum, a senior music education major and recipient of an Appal PIE Scholarship, has greatly enjoyed meeting and getting to know her benefactor.

“Mrs. Rosen is a fabulous lady,” Kari says.

“She cares greatly about the Hayes School of Music and does everything she can to bring success and positive recognition to the school.

It means a great deal to me to receive one of her scholarships because she, and therefore her generous scholarship, represent genuine caring and support for students like my peers and me. It is truly an honor.”

Attendees to concerts and events at Appalachian who have never met the Rosens are still familiar with the family name, for it graces more than one building that house art events on campus. Arnold Rosen’s brother, Martin, and Martin’s wife, Doris, also are strong supporters of Appalachian making the Rosen name extremely visible on campus. Martin and Doris Rosen, for example, are the driving

Four generations of the Muriel and Arnold Rosen family.

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Donors support Center for Judaic, Holocaust, and Peace Studies Dr. Jennifer Evans - lecture on

“The Persecution of Homosexuals under the Nazi Holocaust,”

March 25, 7 p.m., Belk Library Room 114 Dr. Ben Kiernan - lecture on

“Blood and Soil: A World History of Genocide and Extermination from Sparta to Darfur,”

April 2 at 7 p.m., Belk Library Room 114

2009 Martin & Doris Rosen Summer Symposium

“Remembering the Holocaust,”

July 18-July 23, Broyhill Inn and Conference Center www.holocaust.appstate.edu

A

ppalachian’s connection to Florida residents who summer in the High Country has resulted in financial support beyond the arts. A notable example is Appalachian’s Center for Judaic, Holocaust and Peace Studies.

In 2002, with a gift from Martin and Doris Rosen, Appalachian sponsored the first summer symposium on the Nazi Holocaust to help public school teachers learn new ways to educate their students about the atrocity. The symposium was so successful – and the educational purpose so great – the Rosens and other donors gave additional funds to create a center devoted to strengthening tolerance, understanding and remembrance.

Today, the center continues this mission by increasing knowledge of Jewish culture and history, teaching the history and meaning of the Holocaust, and utilizing these experiences to explore peaceful avenues for human improvement.

The center will sponsor the eighth annual Martin & Doris Rosen Summer Symposium “Remembering the Holo-

force behind the Rosen Outdoor Sculpture Competition, which will enjoy its 23rd year this summer. In 2000, all the Rosens were inducted into An Appalachian Summer Festival’s Founders’ Society.

Today, Muriel Rosen is a loyal member of the advisory boards for both An Appalachian Summer Festival (since its inception) and the Hayes School of Music (since 1997). Her perspective, as someone passionately involved with these programs for more than 25 years, is highly valued by the university. She is an inspiration to current staff and board members, who, according to Harbinson, “appreciate her extraordinary knowledge and quick wit.”

The Rosens were married for 58 years before Mr. Rosen passed away in 2001. Mrs. Rosen believes that it is the “personal touch” with the Appalachian community that meant so much to the couple over the years – the people they have

caust” in July. Other activities sponsored by the center include campus lectures by nationally recognized speakers, a film series, special courses and study abroad trips for students, presentations at area schools by survivors and others personally touched by the Holocaust, and as of November 2008 an academic minor is being offered in Judaic, Holocaust and Peace Studies.

Of the center’s original supporters, “almost everyone had some connection to the Holocaust through their families and they saw this as a way of never forgetting what happened,” said the center’s co-director Rennie Brantz, a professor of history. The Nazi Holocaust provided warning signals of the potential of evil and destruction, and knowledge of these signals is important to developing greater peace, he said.

Appalachian’s Center for Judaic, Holocaust and Peace Studies looks at both the past and the future, Brantz said, and through its activities can be “a voice of morality.” n

come to know and care about. “Arnold always used to say that you don’t give money to an organization; you give to people,” Mrs. Rosen said.

Some other areas of the university that receive Muriel Rosen’s generous support include the Center for Judaic, Holocaust and Peace Studies; Carol Grotnes Belk Library and Information Commons; and the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts.

As Appalachian prepares to celebrate 25 years of great artistry and community through An Appalachian Summer Festival June 27-July 25, Arts and Cultural Programs Director Denise Ringler notes, “In commemorating this occasion, we also celebrate the spirit of enlightened philanthropy, embodied by Muriel and Arnold, that remains the cornerstone of this remarkable festival.” n Additional reporting by Denise Ringler and Anna Kuhlman.

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An early affinity for language Benefits of learning a second language at an early age:

• Positive effect on intellectual growth • Enriched and enhanced mental development flexibility in thinking, greater • Increased sensitivity to language, and a better ear for listening understanding of child’s native • Improved language

to communicate with people the child • Ability would otherwise not have the chance to know. appreciation for other cultures and people • An from other countries head start in language requirements for • Acollege job opportunities in careers in which • Increased knowing another language is an asset Source: Center for Applied Linguistics

By Kate Cahow ’08 MA

W

hen John Edmunds arrives at Oak Hill Elementary, or one of three other elementary schools where he teaches German, his students greet him with phrases like, “Guten Morgen, Herr Edmunds,” and “Wie geht’s?”

“These kids have a great attitude about learning language. And they really retain the information,” said Edmunds, one of Burke County’s 26 foreign language teachers involved in a partnership between Appalachian State University and the county’s school system to enhance its foreign language programming in part by extending it to middle and elementary grades.

The project is supported by a U.S. Department of Education grant of $500,000 through its Foreign Language Assistance Program, or FLAP. Matching funds from Appalachian and Burke County bring the budget for the three-year project to more than $1 million.

Burke County’s commitment to expand foreign language instruction is expected to boost students’ overall academic performance and raise cultural awareness, two important elements in meeting the state’s new core curriculum and supporting a growing global workforce. Another goal of the project is to develop and hone a model of foreign language instruction that can be replicated across the country.

Starting early for best results Burke County consistently has offered language instruction in French, German and Spanish at all its high schools. But, that has not been the case at the middle and elementary schools.

Edmunds, along with five other foreign language teachers, was hired in 2008 with funds from the FLAP grant to provide classes in either German or French to the county’s middle schools and bring those

John Edmunds teaches German to students at Oak Hill Elementary. The U.S. Department of Education’s FLAP grant covers costs for all Burke County foreign language teachers to participate in the three summer institutes at Appalachian, including tuition, materials, room and board, and a small stipend.

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languages up to par with the schools’ existing Spanish program. He is also part of the project’s teacher-sharing effort to extend all three languages to the elementary schools.

“Many of my students are from rural areas where they don’t hear other languages spoken, so they find it fascinating. Especially the elementary kids,” Edmunds said. “You can sing songs with them in German like ‘Head, shoulders, knees and toes,’ and they remember the words and the associations. At this age they have an excellent aptitude for picking up languages.”

According to Beverly Moser, director of the project and an associate professor of German in Appalachian’s Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures, starting early and sticking with a language for several years delivers the best results. She affirms Edmunds’ claim that young children have an affinity for language, and that foreign language instruction enhances and strengthens cognitive and academic growth.

“Because young children don’t have as much left brain/right brain dominance, they are more flexible in their ability to learn languages,” Moser said. “Research shows that children who learn a second language at an early age do better academically than those who are monolingual.”

Support from the top Burke County has a large Hispanic population, a Hmong population for which the foreign language of choice is French, and a growing German contingent due to the German-based companies that have located in the area.

This combination of population diversity and the county’s commitment to expand foreign language instruction to its schools make it the perfect partner for the FLAP project, in large part because of the support the project receives from its top administrator.

“We see the need for foreign language instruction at all grade levels, especially with the emphasis of Research shows the state’s new core curriculum,” said David Burleson ’82, superinthat children who tendent of Burke County Public learn a second Schools. “To graduate from high language at an school in the college prep track, early age do better a student must have at least two years of a foreign language.”

“

academically than those who are monolingual.

”

According to Burleson, the project has also offered Burke Beverly Moser, associate professor of German County’s foreign language staff opportunities for networking and further education they would not have had otherwise.

“There is good evidence that foreign language skills support all “Many of our teachers are the sole instructor at their school for other academic skills. So foreign language instruction can play an their particular language, so the networking component of the essential role in a school system’s core curriculum,” she said. project has been tremendous for them,” he said. “I think the opCultural awareness and acceptance is another important benefit of learning a foreign language – and a critical characteristic for a global workforce.

portunities provided through this program for further training and professional development of foreign language teachers would be enticing for all public school systems.”

“Foreign language instruction isn’t just about learning grammar and pronunciation these days,” said Moser. “Students learn about other cultures, and this provides opportunities for them to participate in being citizens of the world.”

To support Burke County and its teachers in implementing the project, Appalachian hosted the first of three summer institutes on campus last summer. Burke County’s core group of teachers participated, but foreign language teachers across North Carolina were invited, too. The same is planned for the 2009 and 2010 institutes.

“In this era of globalization the ability to make connections to other peoples, their languages and cultures is critical not only for our children but for all of us. Americans need to become good foreign language learners, period,” she said.

With help from Pollyanne Frantz in Appalachian’s Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, Moser developed the FLAP proposal in collaboration with several Burke County educators.

During the 2007-08 school year, Moser met with the county’s foreign language staff to make plans for the new curriculum, build support for the program within the schools and with parents, and to hire the six new teachers, including Edmunds.

In the fall of 2008, courses in French and German were offered for the first time at all five middle schools in Burke County and at four of its 17 elementary schools.

During the final year of the project, 2009-10, contact hours for middle grade students in all three languages will be doubled, preparing them to take a level II language course in high school.

Contact hours at the elementary schools will also be increased to meet standards for a model program designed to enable students to obtain a high level of proficiency in their chosen language.

“We’re working to realize all the goals of the project, but this year it’s about planting seeds,” said Moser. “We want to get the younger children excited about foreign language, and to let them and their parents know they will have three languages to choose from all the way through high school.”

Participants of the first institute engaged in discussions about curriculum development and assessment, learned innovative teaching techniques, and took a graduate level course in their target language. Because they were housed together according to language specialty, teachers got ample opportunity to practice their language skills throughout the evening hours as well.

“We’re delighted that funding through this grant has enabled us to offer a summer institute each year not just for Burke County teachers, but other interested foreign language teachers from across the state,” said Moser. “The institute has also been a terrific opportunity for Appalachian faculty members to make an impact on foreign language instruction across the state and the country.”

And what of the impact of the project on the Burke County teachers? Edmunds, who along with five other new teachers in Burke County owes his job to the FLAP grant, says the professional support provided through the project has been invaluable.

“In addition to helping me improve my German speaking ability, the inspiration and support we’ve received has provided invaluable resources for our classrooms, and provided a great group of individuals for networking,” said Edmunds. “I can’t thank Appalachian and the FLAP staff enough for this opportunity.” ■ To learn more about the 2009 summer institute contact Beverly Moser, Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures, at moserba@appstate.edu or 828-262-2303.

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lessons in A young man’s travels to Sudan open his heart and lead him to a life-changing purpose

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Photo courtesy of Billy Riddle

a senior English major at Billy Riddle isAppalachian.

He was a member of Appalachian’s 2005 and 2006 championship football teams and played on special teams during the 2008 football season. Billy has traveled twice to Sudan with a relief organization and, as a result, has started his own nonprofit organization, WhyTheWoods, which is building two wells in Sudan and reconstructing a nursery school and primary school. We asked Billy to share his motivation, passion and experiences with the readers of Appalachian Today magazine. Following are excerpts from his story, in his own words.

You can read Billy’s blog at www.billyriddlejr.blogspot.com.

On Coming to Boone and Appalachian Billy finds Appalachian exciting and stimulating after growing up in a small town and appreciates the learning environment that will prepare him for the rest of his life.

“I am from a small town -- Cooleemee, NC. There’s not much there but farms, football, and good people. From that small town, I learned the value of a firm handshake, an honest word, and a Sunday morning service. Those are my roots. Only God knew what this small town boy would see when I climbed up the Blue Ridge Mountains in 2004.

My eyes were opened to a whole new world of Appalachian college life blended with the unique Boone culture. Once, I stood laughing with my friends on the edge of a big waterfall located on the Elk River. We jumped and had the time of our lives.

I think that story sums up my time at Appalachian. I met some great friends, we stood on the edge of a beautiful world, and we jumped.”

Faint Beginnings of a Calling Through friends in the football program at Appalachian, Billy is introduced to the organization Samaritan’s Purse and a possible calling he did not anticipate.

“I came to Appalachian State to play football. My friend and teammate, Seth Breitenstein, introduced me to the Graham family my freshman year. A friendship blossomed and the next summer I found myself working at the Samaritan’s Purse offices in Boone. Samaritan’s Purse is an international relief organization led by Rev. Franklin Graham, son of Rev. Billy Graham.

I believe that the best way to make a positive change in your life is to put yourself in a positive environment -- I would say Samaritan’s Purse is the definition of a positive environment. I have never worked at a friendlier or more loving place. It was that summer that I heard the first faint calling in my life to make a difference in this world.

These great people at Samaritan’s Purse were changing lives all over the world and I was feeling the effects of it just by being near them. I heard stories of African tribes, Malaysian villages, and The children of Sudan taught Billy about life, love, and happiness. On Billy’s left is the “Little Toothless Girl.”

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Unexpected lessons in love Kosovo refugees. I saw pictures of smiling children and crying mothers. The fire in my heart was lit, and the wheels in my mind were turning, all while the faint call to go to those foreign people got louder and clearer.”

working, selling, and trading anything to survive. I rode down the street in wonder.

But, I didn’t wonder at the condition of the streets or the buildings, or even the malnourished children. Those things I had expected -- I wondered at all their beautiful smiles.

Ignorance Challenged

Amidst all the horrid poverty I saw around me, there they stood … smiling.

Why in this world would they be smiling at me? I could not yet understand. In the next two months my customs faded, my ideas shattered, my worldview crumbled, and God was no longer just the God I had bound between the leather cover of my Billy Graham Training edition Bible.

Billy’s chance to go to Sudan challenges his current view of the world and his place in it.

“Soon after the 2006 National Football Championship (Appalachian’s and my second) my blind desire to make this world a better place and divine opportunity finally met. That summer I was offered an opportunity by Samaritan’s Purse to spend two months working in Sudan.

I worked everything out with my family and my coaches, skipped out on the usual June football workouts, promised to be back before football camp started in late July, and boarded a plane for the African wild. I barely knew where Sudan was on the map, and other than the scholarly information I read on Wikipedia I knew nothing of the Sudanese people.

On the plane ride over I imagined myself stepping out into that wild land and being surrounded by the starving little children who I had seen on television covered in flies. I saw myself walking through streets of mud and seeing people in despair, crying and moaning for relief.

I just knew I would save them from that poverty! My ambition was righteous, but my ignorance was challenged as I stepped onto the red Sudanese dirt.”

Wondering in the Dark Experiencing Africa for the first time and meeting its people forces Billy to confront the reality of their way of life and their – and his -- reaction to it.

“In May 2007, I was plunged right into the middle of a country recovering from a civil war that had given humanity a glimpse of hell. My rookie year of mission work began in a world of malaria death tolls, wartime orphans, boy soldiers, and girl sex slaves. I drove down those muddy roads I had imagined on the plane, littered with trash, and lined by shanties.

I saw the African children I had seen in the pictures. Men and women were

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The things I saw and the stories I heard brought me to my knees and broke my heart. I was broken and confused, then a little angel changed my life and revealed a purpose of divine origin. She helped me understand.”

The Little Toothless Girl Billy meets an African child who seeks something from this young American man that he does not yet understand.

“One day I stood in the wild of Southern Sudan overseeing the reconstruction of a new church. I stood there by my mudcovered truck and watched those Sudanese men work like hungry ants all striving to achieve something greater. It was a poetic moment for me. In a land where the laws of nature are the only honest form of government, and where the flaws of mankind cannot be hidden by the luster of the dollar, I stood and watched humanity in motion.

I watched these men so desperately grasping for a better life, while bearing the weight of government oppression, still in desperate need of the most basic commodities, but working all the while with hopes of one day finding what we are all looking for… life abundant. I wondered if they would ever find it.

Watching those men peck away at the new building, I began to lose all hope in my mission and in myself. I asked, ‘What is this one new church going to do for the country of Sudan? How much of a difference can one young man make in this massive suffering place.’

I felt swallowed by the overwhelming

tragedy of humanity that is Sudan. And then I felt a little hand tickling fingers down my forearm.

My eyes quickly shot to the little fouryear-old girl who was bravely exploring my hairy, white arms. Her hand froze.

She had big brown eyes that got wider as we stared at one another. She was giddy almost, like she was petting a lion and was waiting for it to jump at her.

I gave her a little wink and she was sent over the top with an explosion of laughter.

Her friends, who had probably dared her to touch the white man, erupted in the background. But, I had no time for little games. What did this little girl want from me anyway? Couldn’t she understand that there was no reason in this world that she should be happy?”

‘She Overcame the World’ Billy finds all he is seeking in the beautiful brown eyes of one young African child.

“With that she slid her hand down my arm, slowly traced the lines on my palm, until her dirty little fingers were interlocked with mine. Somewhere in the space between my hopeless eyes and her beautiful, toothless grin she overcame the world.

Her eyes wild with amazement, her little tongue poking through the missing teeth, her smile; all explained the mystery of love. My gaze was shattered by that glow radiating from her body. It reverberated into my soul eclipsing all wisdom and forever changing my idea of life. My eyes opened like a newborn.

I realized then, she doesn’t need or really want the things I came to offer. I have seen so many who have exponentially more than this little toothless girl ever will have, yet have never smiled so wholly as she when she simply held my hand. I stood there with nothing more to offer than that simple human touch.

I had no miracle of life, no clean new well, no shiny new school, only my dirty hand. As we stood there holding hands, love overcame me. The true love between us in that moment conquered our plight.

Love is the ultimate value of life. And that is all she ever wanted. May God bless the little toothless girl who taught me the value of love. And may our dirty hands meet again one day where love is abundant.”

Photo courtesy of Billy Riddle

Leaving the Angel Behind His trip to Sudan over, Billy returns to the United States a much-changed young man.

“My return to the states was a confusing time. Anyone who has returned from other worlds beyond our America knows of this confusion. In Sudan I had lost time, thrown away my cell phone, and stepped into the rawness of natural living. Now back in a world of ‘Blue Tooth’ and lattes I experienced what they call ‘culture shock.’

It was due to reentry into a world that valued time more than people, where money means happiness, and the idea of humility is humiliating; ideas I had so quickly and willingly forgotten. Stepping off the plane in Charlotte was like stepping blindly into a wild river of bodies. Spun in circles by the speed of it all I suddenly found myself lost in familiar places. The old America was lost to me and the new America was no longer my home.

Everyone seemed preoccupied and uncaring about the tragedies I had just witnessed. Everyone seemed so materialistic.

Bitterness towards this culture was on the verge of setting in when my mother wisely reminded me that I am still an American, and being American is a great blessing.

We are a great country and we have great freedoms and great opportunities.

But I still could not erase the images of the little toothless girl. I could not forget the hugs and handshakes and the many cups of hot Sudanese tea I had come to love. I trudged through the first couple of weeks of the July football workouts trying to get my heart and mind refocused on the upcoming football season, all the while battling this gut feeling that I didn’t belong here right now. I still had something to find.

I could still feel her little hand holding mine, and that smile still burned in my heart. Everything she had come to represent revealed to me a greater purpose in life. The idea of this girl, who wanted only love, had changed the core of my being.

From the moment of my birth I have been feeding myself with whatever pleased me.

But now, this idea of feeding others, of changing lives that had no bearing on my own, of giving love and comfort to others despite the “sacrifices” I would have to make … what a revelation!

As these ideas began to solidify I began

The children of the village of Wadupe loved receiving Christmas cards from Billy’s family, friends, and supporters back in the United States.

to understand that in order for me to find true life, I must give my own life. To ignore this revelation and follow what was expressed to me as common sense would have been to finish my college career both academically and athletically, with a missing piece. I would have lived the next vital year of my life without an understanding of my experiences. I needed to go back and learn what this new love—this new life—really meant.”

Saying Goodbye to Football As Billy prepares to return to Sudan, he must say goodbye to Appalachian and the football program that was to make its third consecutive run at a national championship without him.

“When it came time to tell the football world my decision I worried that it would hurt the team. I went to Coach Jerry Moore’s office determined that he could not convince me otherwise, but praying that he would not be hurt. There I stood in his office, facing the head coach of now back-to-back national champions, and poured out my heart.

His eyes filled with tears, he smiled and then told me that I was a valuable part of

the team, but I had found what is most valuable in life. He supported me on this mission and even told me he would save me a spot for when I returned.

Coach Moore told a young man to pursue his heart, not worried that he was losing a scholarship athlete, but knowing that he was helping forge the life of a new man. I am, and forever will be, a friend and a fan of the great Coach Moore.”

Leaving Family Again It was even harder to tell his close and loving family that he was going to delay completing his education, leave them and return to Sudan for another, even longer visit.

“Leaving a family such as mine is a ridiculous idea. We are the type that people gravitate to for wisdom, love, and guidance. We are a family founded on love and respect. Telling them that I was leaving to go back again to that dangerous place, and this time I would be gone much longer, tested my faith in my mission.

I told my dad first. He challenged me and the purpose of the trip. He made sure it was not just a whim. In the end, he could not deny my calling. I remember tears of sadness that I was leaving again, but an excitement in his voice and encouragement in his hug.

Next I told my sisters. I am the only boy in our family. My three sisters have all played a huge role in my life. They are my

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Unexpected lessons in love biggest fans but I also can rely on some humbling words from them if they sense the need. They knew I had to go … so they cheered me on.

my mom was told she had breast cancer; I saw wild places and had many adventurous moments; I experienced my first Christmas without my family.

Last was my mom. She understands me like no other person is able. Telling her I was leaving would hurt the most.

The evening I made the call from Boone, she said when my name showed on caller ID, she knew what it was about.

She had sensed the unrest in my heart.

She knew I was not where I was supposed to be. I told her that it was sad to see me fly away, but it was she who gave me the wings I needed to soar.

Through the months I learned so much about myself and this new world I was living in. As I became more acquainted with the Sudanese ways I began to love and respect their culture.

I began to mimic their ways. I wanted to be as much like them as I could. In return they began to see me as one of their own. I became a true brother to them.

So when I called, I got no tears, no pleading, and no discouragement, only prayer. And she prayed and prayed. Still today, she prays.”

‘I Found Love’ Billy’s return to Sudan brings him full circle and he finds love, family and friendships that will remain with him for the rest of his life.

“My second trip into Sudan ended up lasting seven months. I spent time working at two different bases in Southern Sudan. I went through many ups and downs over that period. I saw churches built and people rejoicing; I struggled with being away from my family when

me. After my experience with the little toothless girl I knew the value of love.

After watching it in action through the Sudanese I began to have faith in the healing power of love.”

Truly a Family Billy fights through malaria and develops the resolve to carry on the work in Sudan that he started two years before.

In the dirtiest places I found love.

Around the campfire at night I found love. In the mud-hut, grass-roof shanties I found love. And where I found love I also found hope and excitement.

These were the smiling people of whom I was in awe. These were the people who changed my worldview. The more time I spent with the Sudanese the more I learned about true community and brotherly love.

“During my last days I came down with malaria for the second time. I had to leave the village and return to my base. At the time I didn’t know that I had malaria. I was very dehydrated, I was dizzy, and my stomach was hurting.

The people of the village were very worried about me and I knew I had to get back to our base fast. They put me on a motorbike and sent me back 17 miles to the main base. When I got to the base our nurse quickly diagnosed the malaria and I was bound to the bed for the next three days.

They taught me how to value time spent with another person over time spent completing a task. I watched them sit around a campfire at night and talk about the hard times. They talked about their families, and they joked, and laughed. They enjoyed each other’s presence. It all became clear to

While lying in bed cycling through the cold and hot spells that are common with malaria, the pastor from the village popped his head into my room. I was truly amazed to see him there. He had ridden 17 miles in the blistering sun on a rickety old bike for no other reason than to see how I was doing.

Photo courtesy of Billy Riddle

Those final days I spent lying in bed recovering gave me plenty of time to reflect on the things I had been through during the seven months. I established these things: My life is meant to be founded on love. My sole purpose is to love God and love others. I learned through my interaction and inclusion into the village that the best way to show love to others is to meet them where they are. I learned that I must humble myself to the point of pure equality with my neighbor. I am no better than the Sudanese man I am trying to help. I am his equal. His brother.” ■ Editor’s Note: Billy Riddle plans to return to Sudan in May 2009 to work with WhyTheWoods. For more information on WhyTheWoods, a 501c(3) non-profit organization, go to www.WhyTheWoods.com.

“Giving to the poor is not about charity; it is a matter of justice. It is an honor to serve with the people of Sudan.” -- Billy Riddle

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N.C.’s senate leader is a friend to Appalachian

By Linda Coutant ’01 MA

H

e’s a lifelong resident of Manteo, yet Sen. Marc Basnight’s proximity to Boone and Appalachian State University has grown closer over the years. Basnight has served 24 years in the N.C. Senate, 16 of those as senate president pro tempore, and is considered one of the most powerful politicians in the state. He’s an ardent supporter of higher education, having helped make possible the $3.1 billion in bonds for improvements at state colleges and universities in 2000 and ensuring the UNC System remains one of the highest funded university systems in the nation.

“

If you build an economy, you build it around knowledge.

To obtain knowledge, you have to have education. It’s relatively simple to understand because to be competitive, you have to be better than the opposition.”

Sen. Marc Basnight, on the importance of higher education

“I believe we have a wonderful university system, one of the finest – if not the finest – in the country,” Basnight said just days before the opening of the 2009-2010 session of the N.C. General Assembly in January. “It’s affordable and has some of the most highly recognized colleges and degree programs that can be found.”

Basnight said it’s not hard to support Appalachian in particular because of its “very impressive” chancellor, Kenneth E. Peacock, and Peacock’s persistence in discussing Appalachian’s excellence. “He’s incredible and what a delight to talk to,” Basnight said. “He sits outside my office and waits to tell me something about this school. It’s amazing. Many chancellors come, but he’s pretty special... He never quits working. He called me New Year’s Eve and talked about the school.”

Basnight said he and Peacock have spent a great deal of time together understanding Appalachian. “He’s wanted me to understand the school, its continued on page 25

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High state appropriations = a strong university

By Linda Coutant ’01 MA North Carolina often is cited as having a world-class university system, one that other state university systems in the country look to as a model. This recognition comes, in large part, from the amount of state appropriations the system receives.

“Without the state’s operating support, we would not have the quality of higher education that we have in North Carolina and that we want to maintain,” said Appalachian’s Chancellor Kenneth E. Peacock.

The UNC System accounts for 12 percent of North Carolina’s $21 billion state budget – a statistic placing North Carolina among the top states in the nation for commitment to funding higher education.

This percentage has stayed about the same for the past 15 years. (The figure does not include capital building projects which are paid through non-voter bonds.)

According to Grapevine consulting firm, North Carolina ranked fifth in the nation for the amount of state and local appropriations for higher education per capita in fiscal year 2006, and third in the nation per $1,000 of personal income.

Florida, in comparison, ranked 43rd per capita and 42nd per $1,000 of personal income, while Virginia ranked 35th and 41st respectively. South Carolina ranked 37th and 29th respectively.

In today’s declining economy, higher education is taking a hit. At least 24 states have implemented cuts to public colleges and universities and/or are implementing large tuition increases to make up for insufficient state funding, according to the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities. Virginia faces a $2.9 billion revenue shortfall and plans to slash spending for universities. In South Carolina, Clemson University already has responded to $26 million in budget cuts by ordering a mandatory unpaid furlough for employees, a hiring freeze, and delays on major construction projects. The University of Florida, suffering a $50 million cut, chopped academic programs, cut enrollment and laid off faculty.

According to the N.C. General Assembly’s Fiscal Research Division, North Carolina remains in a better position relative to many states. Nonetheless, it reports North Carolina could face a $1 billion to $2 billion revenue shortfall along with added demands to Medicaid and other assistance programs, a necessary cash infusion of approximately $300 million to the State Health Plan, and enrollment growth funding at universities and community colleges.

The legislature convened on Jan. 28 to determine a two-year state budget. Will it have to cut appropriations to the UNC System, and if so, by how much?

“We’re down 5 to 6 percent in revenue and growing,” said Sen. Marc Basnight, senate president pro tempore. “We’ll be challenged, but the university will do well with what we have. Will there be budget reductions? I’m sure there will be. Will there be tuition increases? I’m sure there will be.”

To reach a balanced budget as required by state law, some hard decisions will have to be made, legislators warned, but they agreed that education remains a priority.

“We all argue that money spent on education is not an expense, it’s an investment,” said Rep. Cullie Tarleton, who represents Watauga Cullie Tarleton and Ashe counties and whose children graduated from Appalachian. “Education has been the No. 1 priority to all people serving in the N.C. legislature,” said Rep. Martha Alexander, a representative from Mecklenburg County, who also is the parent of two Appalachian alumni.

That’s because, legislators say, they Martha Alexander understand that a well-educated public ensures good jobs, a strong economy and high quality of life.

Alumnus Rep. Ty Harrell ’93, who serves Wake County, believes the state must continue making that investment. “Here in North Carolina, we have so much to offer: world-renowned research facilities, bioresearch, biodiesel, and gaming applications not just for kids but for applications in medicine and the military,” he said.

Ty Harrell Tarleton said he believes the UNC System is a good steward of state allocations. “Erskine Bowles has put into place basic business principles from his time in the private sector and is running

Source: The University of North Carolina General Administration, fiscal year 2006-07

24

Appalachian Today Spring 2009

continued from page 23

system an efficient organization,” he said. “There’s great support in the General Assembly for Appalachian. Chancellor Peacock has done a fabulous job in making sure the right people in Raleigh know about Appalachian and its history, especially what it does for teacher education. I never waste the opportunity to tell Appalachian’s story and its contributions not only to the High Country but to the entire state.”

Appalachian received $4.2 million in planning money for its newly approved College of Health Sciences and Allied Professions in 2008, and Tarleton said he expects Peacock to ask for more money for construction. Whether the state can afford it “remains to be seen,” he said.

Alumnus Sen. Steve Goss ’72 remains optimistic the “ebbs and flows in capitalism” will bring brighter days. There will have to be Steve Goss cuts until the recession improves, he said, but he hopes they are temporary and fair to all areas that receive state funding.

Among this year’s newest legislators to participate in the budget decisions is alumnus Rep. Grey Mills ’90, a first-term representative from Iredell County. “It’s going to be a tough session with the budget and revenue projections, but I think it will be a challenging and rewarding opportunity to serve,” he said.

Grey Mills

Rep. Jane Whilden, a freshman lawmaker from Buncombe County, serves on the board of directors of Appalachian’s Parents Association with her husband, David.

Their two children, Rebekah and John, are currently enrolled at the university.

“I feel North Carolina is proud – and should be proud – of its universities.

I don’t think you realize that until you look at other states,” Whilden said. “We have to keep this reputation Jane Whilden as best we can, and I feel the legislature will do what it can to keep the system as it is.” ■

N.C.’s senate leader is a friend to Appalachian mission and purpose and what the future holds,” he said.

Basnight easily points to accomplishments at Appalachian: its consistently high rankings in U.S. News and World Report and Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine, its outstanding faculty, and “fantastic job of preparing people for the workforce, for life.” He’s also well versed in the Walker College of Business’s reputation for creating innovative business leaders and Appalachian’s expansion into the allied health and nursing fields.

Like Appalachian’s passionate chancellor, Basnight dreams big and is excited about the university’s future. What will Appalachian look like in 20 years or more? “It will be different than what you and I can predict,” he said. “We made an appropriation of $4.2 million to plan the allied health/nursing school.

Well, where do you go after you complete it? Do you need some PhD program in the health community? … I can assure you once we get the $40-plus million nursing and allied health building up and operational, we will be thinking how we at Appalachian can contribute to the world economy through the site.”

Basnight never went to college himself, which helps explain the value he places on higher education as a state leader. “I’m a business owner so I want to be able to pay my bills and stay in business. Knowing I was at a major disadvantage as I competed in this world of business without a college education, I realized – maybe more so than a person with an education – its importance. When you don’t have it, you find yourself competing against people who do, who are better prepared to do the same thing you’re doing solely because of their experience in college.”

The same is true for North Carolina, he said. “I knew if we were to be competitive with international companies in North Carolina we’d have to be smarter and we’d have to be able to manage our opportunities in a fashion that would allow us to compete. Education is the only vehicle to a global economy and those who do best in that will be the winners in the end,” Basnight said.

“If you build an economy, you build it around knowledge.

To obtain knowledge, you have to have education. It’s relatively simple to understand because to be competitive, you have to be better than the opposition… Our review of how we spend money is based on the creation of opportunity through education, and that’s why we spend at such a level as we do in North Carolina.”

Basnight’s current term ends in 2010 and he’ll decide early nest year about seeking re-election. One thing is certain: He believes the state of North Carolina and its people should continue supporting its universities and do so at a higher level whenever possible.

“I believe we need more science, more technology, more engineering and mathematics. The cure for cancer or the battery for an electric car or the energy derived from the sun, water or air, these are only possible through science. That’s why I speak of the expansion at Appalachian... It has positioned itself well for future opportunities.”

Basnight said the future funding of the UNC System depends on the people of North Carolina, who must place an emphasis on the value of higher education.

“The support the universities have today is because of the people. The more we educate the people, the stronger the university system will be. It is through education that we will succeed, that dreams can be fulfilled.” ■

Appalachian Today Spring 2009

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alumni news Remember when...

1925 - “The Cafeteria” opens on campus.

1953 - College Employees Banquet

1964 - Food Services Manager John W. Welborn serves millionth meal.

1960s - Students make their way past the main entrance of Welborn during a snow storm.

w a fond farewell to welborn cafeteria: Built in 1925, it was known simply as “the Cafeteria” until being renamed Welborn in the early 1980s. In 2007, it had the distinction of being the oldest building on campus.

1970s - Welborn as seen from southern exterior.

1990 - A renovated “B.I.” becomes the Food Court.

1999 - Chick-fil-A debuts on campus.

“I will miss the old building and knowing that many members of my family ate there in years past.” –Cord Gentry, Communication Disorders, 2010 “I will really miss the smell of BBQ that always lingered in front of Old Welborn.” –Genevieve Nadler, Recreation Management, 2010 “It may seem strange, but Welborn had this 70’s feel, especially on the Light Side dining area with the odd plants hanging on the wall, and I will miss that décor greatly.” –Rachel Warriner, Elementary Education, 2009 “I will miss it just being there, which I know sounds weird. But as long as I’ve been at Appalachian, Welborn has too.”

–Allison Zastrow, Psychology, 2009

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Appalachian Today Spring 2009

1972 - Alumni Association luncheon

1983 - Student employees assist in daily operations.

2003 - The Sanford Mall entrance of Welborn always provided a popular gathering spot.

Look now...

w New dining facilitY openS:

Featuring stained glass windows on either side of a promenade, and appointments such as fine molding, the dining hall has a special feeling. More important it provides good food, and lots of variety, with numerous dining units that offer all kinds of meals, snacks and desserts. The new 90,744 square-foot Central Dining Facility is home to both the Rivers Street Cafe and Sanford Commons.

The Welborn legacy will not be forgotten as a plaque commemorating the Sept. 12, 1981, naming of “The Cafeteria� as Welborn Hall is placed at the east entrance of the promenade of the New Central Dining Facility.

Appalachian Today Spring 2009

27

alumni news This issue includes portions of class notes received from July 1 to Dec. 31, 2008. Notes may be submitted via the Alumni Association’s online community. Visit www.alumni.appstate.edu and click on Gold Book to post notes instantly. Keep class notes timely by reporting news within six months of the event.

’70

n Kenneth Sumlin retired from 38 years of service to Hartford Financial on July 31, 2008. n Mary Lyons’ book, “Roy Makes a Car,” represented the commonwealth of Virginia at the 2008 National Book Festival in Washington, D.C. The book was selected as the children’s title for Virginia’s 2008-09 Big Read by the Virginia Center for the Book.

Carolina One Real Estate Company, Summerville, S.C. n Judy (Baker) Hix is principal of Cool Spring Elementary in the Iredell-Statesville school district. n Sally (Morris) Moore was chosen as Teacher of the Year for the 200809 school year at E.P. Todd Elementary School in Spartanburg, S.C., where she is a licensed professional counselor and registered play therapist.

’72

’77

n William Viger is assistant varsity boys soccer coach at Blessed Trinity Catholic High School, Roswell, Ga. n John Throneburg, who retired after 31 years in education, is currently self-employed as a professional photographer. n Becky (Howard) Smith retired with 35 years of service as a media coordinator in North Carolina with Cleveland County Community College, William Jenkins Elementary School, Hickory High School and Fred T. Foard High School. n Judy (Gillis) Dibacco is a co-owner of MADO Investments, which recently sold land to Cumberland County to build two new schools. n Hank Hammond was inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, South Carolina chapter, May 2008.

’76

n Barbara (Thomas) Weaver is a realtor with

A presidential promotion Gill Beck ’78 is a highly decorated and honored colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. On Dec. 19, 2008, he was promoted to brigadier general within the U.S Army Reserve by former President George W. Bush, a highlight to Beck’s already notable career.

Read more about Beck at www.today. appstate.edu/beck.

Beck and wife Mary Jo at a JAG Corps event.

28

Appalachian Today Spring 2009

n James K. Flynn published a compilation of his awardwinning humor columns from the Charlotte Business Journal and opinion columns from the Charlotte Observer. n Mark Bonn, a former Appalachian assistant baseball coach and creator of the university’s tourism program, was inducted into the Florida Tourism Hall of Fame, Aug. 17, 2008.

’79

n Robert Arnett was awarded International CIO of the Year by the utility industry’s EnergyBiz Magazine and the CS Week conference committee.

’80

n Morris Davis is an associate director at the Congressional Research Service in Washington, D.C. He heads the foreign affairs, defense and trade division. In October 2008 Morris retired from

the U.S. Air Force as a colonel after 25 years of service.

’81

n Robin (Woodie) Williams is capital projects procurement coordinator at INVISTA in Charlotte.

’82

n Jamie Hord Smith was chosen as Teacher of Excellence for 2008 at Newton Conover City Schools. She was honored at the November 2008 Exceptional Children’s Conference in Greensboro.

’83

n Robert Klemt is principal at Liberty Middle School in West Orange, N.J. n Ed Crabtree is technical writer at DataDirect Technologies, a part of Progress Software Corporation. n Roger Plott was selected by Business Leader Media as a recipient of the 2008 Movers & Shakers Award. Winners were featured in the September issue of Business Leader magazine. n U.S. Marine Corps Col. Steve Heesacker is the commander of the Marine Corps Engineer School, Camp Lejeune.

’88

n Michael Hill and Becky Hill announce the birth of Eleanor Jarrett, Sept. 12, 2008. n Rusty Percy Tooley and Eric Tooley of San Jose, Calif., were married June 30, 2008. n Sherry (Conrad) Frye has earned recertification as a Certified Purchasing Manager. n LTC John Evans received the Legion of Merit Award June 12, 2008, from the United States Army Special Operations Command for his service as a battalion commander and regiment operations officer with the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment.

’89

n Scott Dadson received a master of business administration from Mercer University, Dec. 20, 2008. He is the city manager of Beaufort S.C. n Jeffrey Merritt was elected vice chairman of the Triangle Transit Board of Trustees for 2008-09. n Jennifer Harris is the first woman to achieve status as a major with the N.C. Highway Patrol. She is leading the patrol’s training academy.

’90

n Allison (Eldridge) Violette is executive director of federal programs at Cumberland County Schools in Fayetteville. n Gregory Lear competed in and finished the Chicago Marathon, Oct. 12, 2008.

n Tamara (Stegall) Ingold and Scott Ingold announce the birth of Lee Thomas, Sept. 15, 2008. n Jeffrey Connor and Lisa Montelongo-Connor announce the birth of Jeffrey James, Aug. 1, 2008. n Tamara (Roark) May is a seventh grade language arts teacher at Marvin Ridge Middle School in Waxhaw. n Sharon Nelson was accepted into Leadership Winston-Salem’s 2009 class. She is executive director of the Associated Arts of Winston-Salem.

’85

’92

’84

n Amanda (Caudill) Townsend is the evening librarian at Richmond Community College in Hamlet. n Lt. Col. Jerome Stanberry recently joined the Armed Forces Inaugural Committee, which supported the 56th Presidential Inauguration, Jan. 20, 2009.

’86

n Barbara (Belcher) Lockee is associate director for research and outreach at the School of Education, Virginia Tech. n Tony L. King was recognized as Assistant City/County Manager of the Year at the North Carolina City and County Management Association’s annual meeting in Asheville, July 2008. King works for the Town of Louisburg. n Wanda Kiser Huffstetler was elected Teacher of the Year at Bessemer City High School for the 2008-09 school year.

’87

n Woody Cain is NASCAR Today producer at Motor Racing Network (MRN) in Concord.

n Sheila and Robert Williamson announce the adoption of sons Robert Brysan and Mark Thomas. n Elizabeth (Tomberlin) Hall and Kevin Hall announce the birth of Nathan Riley, Feb. 27, 2008. n Julia (Martin) Cook and Ken Cook announce the birth of Bryan James, July 11, 2008. n Kimberly (West) Bounds is a music teacher at Wilson’s Mills Elementary School, Wilson’s Mills. n Alexander Keown and Julie Keown of Wheaton, Ill., were married July 5, 2008.

’93

n David Simmons and Leigh Anne (Fulton) Simmons ’93 announce the birth of Dawson Lee, Aug. 6, 2008. n Kimberly (Telfair) Harmon and Tony Harmon ’91 announce the birth of Katelyn Jane, Oct. 30, 2008. n Shannon (McGinnis) Koontz and Hoyle Koontz ’95 announce the birth of Emerson Brooks, Dec. 21, 2008. n Wesley Saylors and Rebekah (Graham) Saylors ’08 of Boone were married Oct. 31, 2008.

alumni news

’94

n Sarah Bryant and Bradford Sink announce the birth of Saxton Kyle, June 13, 2008. n James Hammack and Molly Hammack announce the birth of Lyla, April 16, 2008. n Carmen (Nichols) De Nicholas and Shawn De Nicholas announce the birth of Merritt Danielle, July 8, 2008. n Kristine (Forrest) Seawell and Mark Seawell announce the birth of Elias Forrest, June 18, 2008. n Melissa (Lofton) Miller and James Miller announce the birth of William Shepherd, May 27, 2008. n John Myers and Catherine (Megrath) Myers ’94 announce the birth of Daniella Sophia, Oct. 28, 2008. n Timothy Sparks and Jodi Sparks announce the birth of Teagan Presley, Oct. 17, 2008. n Jennifer Dicks Cantrell and Doug Cantrell announce the birth of twins Madelyn Rose and Jaxon William Cantrell, July 14, 2008. n Rachel (Gaillard) Smook recently opened Birchtree Psychology in Northborough, Mass., where she offers therapy for adults and provides psychological testing and assessment for kids. n Christine Underwood was elected district court judge for District 22A (Alexander and Iredell Counties), Nov. 4, 2008. She has been in private practice in Statesville for the past four years.

’95

n Robert Barthle and Courtney Barthle announce the birth of Camden Juliet, Nov. 2, 2007. n Melanie (Ward) Lowrance and Christopher Lowrance announce the birth of Adam Christopher, July 7, 2008. n Leslie (Rippy) Campbell and Scott Campbell announce the birth of Sydney Grace, April 18, 2008. n Chrystle (Mountain) Gates and Michael Gates ’99 announce the birth of Abigail Medora, March 31, 2008. n Susan (Bauman) Smith and Joshua Smith announce the birth of Sophia Audrey, Sept. 10, 2008. n Audra (Baucom) Ellis and Rick Ellis announce the birth of Addison Leigh, June 24, 2008. n Robin (Conn) Blackmon is coordinator of clinical systems at the University of South Alabama, Mobile. n Emily Baker is director of Operation Homefront Village with the non-profit Operation Homefront, located in Washington, D.C. The village is a rentfree transitional housing community for wounded U.S. soldiers and their families. n Christopher Branch is a detective at the Lenoir Police Department, Lenoir. n Amy Noble is communications and admin. manager at KIDS-R-US Therapy in Cary.

’96

n Tara (Jackson) McCallum and Victor McCallum ’96 announce the birth of Jackson Owen,

Kucab scores a perfect 180 on LSAT admissions test

C

hristian Kucab ’08 of Raleigh is one of the rare individuals to receive a perfect score on the LSAT, the law school admissions test.

A recent summa cum laude graduate of Appalachian’s Department of Government and Justice Studies, Kucab aspires to a career in public interest law and eventually politics. His score of 180 is good insurance he will be accepted into a law school of his choosing.

“My score dramatically increases my options for law school,” the political science major said. “I’ve applied to nine schools, but my top choices are Harvard and Columbia.”

According to the This most significant Law School Admission Council, perfect accomplishment is a testament to scores on the test are the quality of our students, their a rarity. Only about willingness to work hard to achieve .1 percent of LSAT test takers achieve 180. ◗ A rarity: Christian Kucab’s high score places him among .1 percent of test takers.

Kucab attributes his success on the LSAT to weeks of self-preparation, which included taking about 15 practice tests, and the ability to remain calm during the process.

He hopes to begin law school this coming fall. In the meantime Kucab is working as a courier at the law firm of Jordan, Price, Wall, Gray, Jones and Carlton in Raleigh, where he assists attorneys in the office and at the Wake County Courthouse.

June 26, 2008. n Scott Mendenhall and Kelly Mendenhall announce the birth of Chloe Alman, Sept. 29, 2008. n Darin Evans and Beth Evans announce the birth of Joseph Darin, Sept. 1, 2008. n Patricia (Severt) Calloway and Mitchel Calloway announce the birth of Mathis, Oct. 31, 2008.

’97

n Anita Brendle-Corum and Brian Corum ’98 announce the birth of Corbin Moreno, July 10, 2008. n Haley (Beam) Stutzman and Dan Stutzman ’98 announce the birth of Nicholaus Lee, May 1, 2008. n Monica (Wandler) Ek and Michael Ek announce the birth of John Henrik, June 17, 2008. n Laura “Brooke” Livengood and Tim Austin announce the birth of Gabriel Perry, Oct. 6, 2008. n Sara Varnado is an education team member at The Campus for Human Development in Nashville, Tenn. n James Baker is serving in the 10th Mountain Division in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. n Kimberly (Cooke) Green and Daniel Green of Charlotte were married June 21, 2008. n Eric Clonch is vice president at BB&T in Asheville.

’98

“

their dreams, and the academic rigor of our university. I join all the Appalachian community in congratulating Christian on his hard work resulting in this profound achievement.

”

Kenneth E. Peacock, Chancellor of Appalachian State University

n Sheila (Brown) Stone and Jay Stone ’94 announce the birth of Connor Daniel, Feb. 22, 2008. n Tavia (Fromm) Brown and Edwin Brown ’96 announce the birth of Macey Etta, March 31, 2008. n Amy (Vaughn) Creighton and Matt Creighton announce the birth of Taran Matthew, April 22, 2008. n Brandy McCoy announces the birth of Jonathan R. Caldwell Jr., Aug. 29, 2008. n Tiffany (Miller) Brisbin and Timothy Brisbin announce the birth of Carson Riley, July 15, 2008. n Maria (Reep) Childers and Chip Childers announce the birth of Jackson Case, Oct. 20, 2008. n Angela Patterson is communication specialist at Lowe’s Home Improvement corporate headquarters in Mooresville. n Tempest Brevard is the children’s and youth minister at St. James Episcopal Church, Greenville, S.C. n Christopher Lowder and Christine Howard of Aberdeen were married June 28, 2008. n Under the direction of Darren Dailey, Jacksonville Children’s Chorus, Jacksonville Country Day School Treble Chorus, First Coast Christian School Choir, and Los Robles Amadeus Choir performed at New York’s Carnegie Hall, June 29, 2008.

’99

n Janel (Drake) Gaskill and Paul Gaskill announce the birth of Meredith Reagan, Jan. 4, 2008. n Donna (Hood) Rochino and Duneley Rochino announce the birth of Declan James, March 30, 2008. n Christy (Barrick) Holden and Chris Holden ’99 announce the birth of Walker Dean, June 7, 2008. n Amy Case and Scott Case announce the birth of Cameron Scott, Aug. 11, 2008. n Maria (Poindexter) Vernon and Chris Vernon announce the birth of Garrett Christopher, Oct. 1, 2008. n Jennifer Ruggieri is assistant director of graduate admissions at Elon University, Elon. n Erin (Atkins) Janssen joined the Washington, D.C. office of Sonnenschein Nath & Rosenthal LLP as an associate. n Mayumi Imamura and Jonathan Whitley ’99 of Lorton, Va., were married Sept. 20, 2008. n Erin (Poage) Dennis is casting coordinator and assistant producer of “Guys and Dolls,” in concert with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. The production premiered in October 2008.

’00

n Joshua Hurley and Jennifer (Lohr) Hurley ’01 announce the birth of Rebekah

Appalachian Today Spring 2009

29

alumni news Grace, Sept. 2, 2008. Joshua received a master of education degree from Elon University, Aug. 23, 2008. n Laura Lea (Ring) Harris and Josh Harris announce the birth of Parker Reid, Oct. 9, 2008. n Mary (Trexler) Downing and Gregory Downing ’03 announce the birth of Linus James, May 29, 2008. n Adam Neal and Elizabeth (Jessee)

Neal ’00 announce the birth of Caleb Jessee, Nov. 25, 2008. n Gretchen (Meister) Kelly and Ryan Kelly ’00 announce the birth of Hudson Scott, Sept. 10, 2008. n Tamara (Daniels) Santana and Dan Santana announce the birth of David Felipe, Aug. 4, 2008. n Emily Wilder is assistant director for creative services at Reynolda House,

Alumnus named fire chief in Winston-Salem Antony R. Farmer ’96 MBA, a 25-year veteran of the Winston-Salem Fire Department, was sworn in as the city’s new fire chief in December. Farmer oversees the city’s 18 fire stations, 316 firefighters and an annual budget of about $25 million.

Previously, Farmer served as a firefighter, engineer, captain, battalion chief and most recently a district fire chief with the department. ◗ TO PROTECT AND SERVE: Antony Farmer puts 25 years of service to work as WinstonSalem’s new fire chief.

In addition to earning his master of business administration degree from Appalachian, Farmer graduated from the North Carolina Institute of Government.

New board member served government at highest level Linda Combs ’68 ’78 has been elected to serve a four-year term on the Appalachian State University Foundation Board of Directors. She retired in 2007 from a career serving the U.S. government at the highest level.

Over 14 years, Combs worked for three presidents, earned five Senate confirmations for various appointments, and served in the departments ◗ A TRIED AND TRUE of Education, Veterans Affairs, TransSERVANT: Retired federal portation and Treasury, as well as the employee Linda Combs now Environmental Protection Agency. serves the Black and Gold.

As controller of the United States in the Office of Management and Budget – her final position and a presidential appointment – she was responsible for audits totaling about $3 trillion a year.

Combs, a resident of Winston-Salem and Blowing Rock, previously served on the Appalachian Foundation Board of Directors and was chair from 1999-2001.

Created in 1970, the Appalachian State University Foundation Inc. receives and invests private funds to support the university.

Its mission is to create the best possible learning environment for Appalachian students by funding scholarships and programs and providing other resources. With assets of more than $87 million, the foundation provided $10.21 million to support the university last year.

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Appalachian Today Spring 2009

Museum of American Art in WinstonSalem. n Jason Lewkowicz is head coach for cross country and track and field at Hannibal-LaGrange College, Hannibal, Mo. n Jonathan Jessup and Kimberly Ray of Wilmington were married April 5, 2008.

’01

n Marcus Osborne and Kara (Redmond) Osborne ’03 announce the birth of Karsyn Rose, June 8, 2008. Marcus was recently promoted to director of fitness center/ sports medicine at Catawba Valley Medical Center in Hickory. n Paul Brenan and Teresa Brenan announce the birth of Maddison Page, June 23, 2008. n Jeremiah Phillips and Jamie (Cheeseman) Phillips ’01 announce the birth of Grayson Louise, June 23, 2008. n Keith Lumbert and Kristin Lumbert announce the birth of Makenzie Faith, Oct. 18, 2008. n Melissa (Gregory) Miller and Glenn Miller Jr. ’98 announce the birth of Josie Grace, Jan. 29, 2008. n Richard Wheelahan is an associate attorney with Moore & Van Allen’s corporate practice group in Charlotte. n Stephen Domer is an associate attorney at The MacKenzie Law Firm in Winston-Salem.

He is also vice president of the sports agency MLF Sports. n Steven “Todd” Atchison received a doctorate in 20th century American literature from UNC Greensboro, Aug. 11, 2008. He is a lecturer in the English department at UNCG. n Randy Brockway received a master of business administration from Wake Forest University, Aug. 15, 2008. n Cameron Clark and Skotty Wannamaker ’01 of Greensboro were married July 12, 2008.

’02

n Abigail Simmons Pardue and Cameron Pardue announce the birth of Aubrey Lynn, March 26, 2008. n Jake Carpenter and Jenny (Price) Carpenter ’02 announce the birth of Graydon Charles, Aug. 21, 2008. n Susan Buie Johnson and Scott Johnson ’01 announce the birth of Taylor Grace, July 31, 2008. n Joanna (Wingate) Pike and Kent Pike ’02 announce the birth of Taylor Elizabeth, Oct. 7, 2008. n W. Keith Piner and Stephanie Piner announce the birth of Anderson Murphy, Sept.

3, 2008. n Kristin (Howell) Haigler and Chris Haigler announce the birth of Lillian Marie, Dec. 1, 2007. n Erin (Wade) Holland and David Holland ’01 announce the birth of Jack Robert, Nov. 28, 2008. n Leslie (Farris) Bullins is vice president-tax manager at Wachovia Capital Partners, Charlotte. n Molly Rushing is events manager at The Institute for Emerging Issues, Raleigh. n Laura Williams and Darren Ciotoli of Rock Hill, S.C., were married May 3, 2008. Williams is luxury condo

sales associate at The VUE Charlotte. n Wendy Williams is laboratory manager at Blowing Rock Hospital, Blowing Rock. n Heidi (Williams) Ragan and Greg Ragan ’95 of Boone were married Sept. 28, 2008. n Amanda (Greer) Cottrell and Matthew Cottrell ’01 were married June 28, 2008. n Reed Davis and Lindsey (McIntyre) Davis of Winston-Salem were married Oct. 11, 2008. n Patrick Beeson and Lindsay Durango of Knoxville, Tenn., were married Oct. 4, 2008. Beeson is content manager at Scripps Interactive Newspaper Group in Knoxville.

’03

n Ashley Bosse and Mike Bosse announce the adoption of Isabella Raine. n Amy (Parrott) Walker and Bradley Walker ’02 announce the birth of Ian Bradley, June 5, 2008. n Christopher Daniels accepted a position in fiscal support with Mecklenburg County Government, Charlotte. n Jessica Norman received a master’s in community counseling with a concentration in addictions from Appalachian, Dec. 21, 2008. n Molly Cinquemani and Robert (Jason) Herndon ’02 of Raleigh were married June 14, 2008. n Stacey (Kropff) Johnson has earned National Board Certification in early adolescence/ mathematics.

’04

n Tiffany (Carpenter) Nagy and Wade Nagy ’02 announce the birth of Emma Jane, April 12, 2008. n Jennifer Rhyne is a sales specialist at SABIC Innovative Plastics in Tampa, Fla. n Elizabeth Robinson is a patrol officer with the Lenoir Police Department, Lenoir. n Lindsay Parker and Jay Sutton ’97 of Boone were married July 12, 2008. n Jennifer (Owens) Wilkins and Jamie Wilkins ’03 of Charlotte were married Aug. 30, 2008. n Homer Dearmin and Kristen Monroe of Walnut Cove were married Oct. 25, 2008.

’05

n Jami (Robinson) Hensley and Brandon Hensley ’05 announce the birth of Hunter James, April 2, 2008. n Mark Dougherty is director of housing and residence life at the University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown. n Joshua McKinney and Ashley (Watts) McKinney ’06 of Wilmington were married May 31, 2008. n Maggie Cockerham and Richard Greene were married Oct. 11, 2008. n Terri Rosa Fox and Stephen Fox of WinstonSalem were married Aug. 23, 2008. n Hannah Smithey and Christopher Peacock of Boone were married Oct. 11, 2008.

’06

n Jennifer (Houseworth) Cline and Barak Cline ’06 announce the birth of Ailey Brynn,

alumni news

Alumna’s designs used in Gastonia revitalization project

G

astonia’s efforts to revitalize its once thriving downtown provided Jennifer Harper ’06 the opportunity to spotlight her design skills, complete a master’s degree, and take a look at the roots of her community and family history.

Harper, a Gastonia native and Appalachian interior design graduate, hoped to one day see the Parkdale Mills area where her grandmother worked in the 1950s restored and thriving again.

When she learned the city was planning a new convention center with arts and entertainment venues downtown, she decided to get involved.

Harper met with city officials who asked her to design a pedestrian plaza that would serve as a cornerstone to the revitalization plans and reflect the city’s rich textile and manufacturing heritage. The assignment fulfilled Harper’s requirement for a thesis project in industrial design at N.C. State University, and allowed her to prove her worth as a design professional.

“My professors at Appalachian continually told me I had the potential to do bigger and better things. I do have greater confidence now both personally and professionally,” she said.

◗ GASTONIA REVITALIZED: Jennifer Harper ’06 will see her designs for a pedestrian park come alive in Gastonia’s downtown.

Research for the project provided Harper with an appreciation of the machinery and products that fueled Gastonia during its heyday and surrounded her grandmother during her mill days.

Her plans for seating, street lighting, a fountain, outdoor dining and a mini-amphitheatre incorporate the graceful curves and rhythms of spindles, gears and other equipment used to manufacture yarn, the main product of Gastonia’s textile industry.

Harper is currently working with Gastonia’s city engineers to develop the park and ensure all her design details are up to standards and specifications. The city plans to break ground on the project in April.

“The thought of walking through the park and seeing people enjoy my design is a true thrill,” Harper said. “I feel this is a great accomplishment and a great start to my career.”

Dec. 11, 2008. n Kellie Coffey is public information officer at Catawba County Public Health in Hickory. n Benjamin Grindstaff is director of testing and accountability at Montgomery County Schools in Troy. n Susan Hopkins and Jason Blalock ’04 were married June 28, 2008. n Kathryn (Shepard) Killius and Mark Killius of Charlotte were married May 25, 2008. n Christine (Finch) Fee and Mark Fee ’04 of Coral

Springs, Fla., were married April 5, 2008. n Geneieve Fast and Monty Fast ’05 of Albemarle were married June 28, 2008.

’07

n Bryce Haynes is a cardiac disease educator at Novant Health, Forsyth Medical Center. n Darryl Thompson recently accepted a position with the professional soccer team AEK Athens, Athens, Greece.

Thompson spent last season in Poland with the AZS Koszalin club, leading the team to the playoffs. n Kathy Lawrence and Christopher Walker were married Sept. 6, 2008.

’08

n Clayton Roberts is a social studies teacher at West Carteret High School in Morehead City. n Mackie Davenport is an R&D analytical chemist with RPM Wood

Finishes Group in Hudson. n Juston Smith is video editor at WBTV News 3 in Charlotte. n Charles Radcliffe and Lori (DeHertogh) Radcliffe ’08 of Boone were married June 14, 2008. n Erica LeSerra and Joel Goodman were married Sept. 27, 2008. n Jessie Hodges and Kenneth Brown ’07 of Vilas were married Aug. 30, 2008.

Appalachian Today Spring 2009

31

Losses in the Appalachian Family Leland Ross Cooper Sr., 82, died Sept. 13, 2008.

He joined Appalachian’s Department of Leadership and Higher Education in 1967 and later served as director of the bachelor of technology degree program in the Reich College of Education. He retired in 1989. Cooper co-authored three oral history books: “Hungarians in Transition,” “The Pond Mountain Chronicle” and “The People of the New River.”

Hans Gerhard Heymann joined Appalachian in 1969 as a professor of English and director of the English honors program. He died Aug. 16, 2008, at age 92. Heymann, a German prisoner of war during World War II, was honored by Gov. Luther Hodges and West German President Gustav Heinemann for helping to establish trade relations between North Carolina and West Germany.

Peter B. Krusa, 60, died Aug. 20, 2008. He joined Appalachian in 2005 as a distinguished professor in the graphic arts and imaging technology program. Krusa was a respected leader and innovator in North Carolina’s printing industry.

1937

1965

Margaret McGimsey, Jan. 7, 2008.

■ Stancill Nanney, Sept. 17, 2007.

■ William Martin, Dec. 24, 2007.

■ Lena Sue Beam, Gaston, Aug. 25, 2008.

■

1939 ■ William B. Lindsay, Simpsonville, S.C., June 24, 2008.

■ Birdie Townsend, Nov. 2, 2008.

■ William Lindsay, June 24, 2008.

■

Clara Jones, July 23, 2008.

1948 ■

Thomas Beach, Aug. 29, 2008.

1950 James Barnes, Winston-Salem, Oct. 14, 2008.

■

Thomas Collins, Jan. 3, 2008.

■ Morris Brown, March 11, 2008.

1954 ■

“Tom was the type of person you would have seen as immortal, a big strong guy who would do anything for anyone,” said senior Jason M. Altenhof, a teammate and close friend of Prosser. “This godly attribute is what took his life.”

Compiled from an article by Ashley Davis, The Appalachian

32

Appalachian Today Spring 2009

1971 ■

Garland Toliver, Sept. 19, 2008.

Anthony Dickson, Oct. 4, 2008.

James Dudley, May 30, 2008.

■ Lohr Loveland, June 2, 2008.

■ ■

1973 ■

Larry Holloway, Feb. 10, 2007.

1978 ■

Martha Frazier, Oct. 19, 2008.

1979 ■

Burgess Staton, Oct. 1, 2008.

1983 ■ Rebecca Honeycutt, Oct. 20, 2008.

Rolland Rees, Jan. 6, 2008.

1985 1958 Ida Mintz, Aug. 12, 2008.

■ Vaugh Payne, Nov. 2, 2008.

■ Robert Baker, Waccamaw, S.C., Oct. 16, 2008.

1986 1959 ■ Reba Hodges, Boone, June 25, 2008.

■ Janice Little Harvey, Sept. 19, 2008.

■ Barbara Clemmons, May 11, 2008.

1988 ■ ■

1960 Tribute to a Courageous Mountaineer: Described as courageous, hardworking and a great friend, Tom Prosser ’08 died as he lived: trying to help others.The former Mountaineer who starred as a left fielder and hitter on Appalachian’s baseball team during the 2006 and 2007 seasons, died trying to save his parents in a house fire in his hometown of Etowah, Tenn. His parents had already fled the house.

Judith Wyatt, April 14, 2008.

■

■

Mayrelee Fallquist Newman, who taught in the Reich College of Education for 20 years, died Oct. 22, 2008. She was 82. Newman joined Appalachian in 1969 as an associate professor in educational media and as director of the Learning Resource Center. She retired as professor emerita of leadership and higher education.

■

1972 1946

1953 Professor Emeritus Seong Hyong Lee died Nov. 15, 2008, at age 67. He taught in the Department of Communication for 26 years and was director of the journalism program for many years. A native of Korea, Lee became a U.S. citizen in 1984 because of political and social situations at home. At the time he said that by staying here he could “realize my idealism of teaching freedom of the press and freedom of speech.”

1969

■

Janet Meder, Sept. 17, 2008.

1993 ■

1961 ■ Bobby Himes, Campbellsville, Ky., June 28, 2008.

■ Jack Kirstein, Sept. 7, 2008.

1963 ■

Robert York, Nov. 14, 2008.

1964 ■

Dorothy Moore, Aug. 3, 2008.

Kimberly Li, Aug. 20, 2008.

Shirley Jenkins, June 4, 2008.

Peter Cangemi, Aug. 22, 2008.

1994 ■

Kevi Johnson, Sept. 19, 2008.

2002 ■ Richard

G. Cliff Jr., Afghanistan, Sept. 29, 2008.

2004 ■ Jannifer Dumas, Winston-Salem, Dec. 7, 2008.

An investment that’s sweet music to students’ ears

The 13-acre Kallalanta estate in Blowing Rock was enjoyed by the Cannon Family of Concord from 1914 until Mariam Cannon Hayes bequeathed the property to The Appalachian State University Foundation. The Foundation is currently marketing the property, and the proceeds from the sale of Kallalanta will benefit the university’s Hayes School of Music.

An investment in Kallalanta’s cool breezes, rhododendrons, century-old oaks, and peaceful and serene setting is also an investment in a student’s future at Appalachian.

For more information, contact an Appalachian State University Foundation Inc. representative at 828-262-6231.

Appalachian Today ASU Box 32014 Boone, North Carolina 28608-2014 Address Service Requested