Dr. Roland P.
Sharp ’36 Spring
Commencement Three Concord Alumni Coach for
State Title
From the President’s Desk Alumni activities dominated the summer months as the warm weather led to a series of events in several states. The Office of Advancement’s summer campaign, “CU at the Ballpark,” gathered Mountain Lions in New York City and Greensboro, North Carolina as well as in Beckley, Bluefield, Charleston and Princeton, West Virginia to watch baseball games with major and minor league teams. The New York Yankees, Greensboro Grasshoppers, West Virginia Miners, Bluefield Blue Jays, West Virginia Power and the Princeton Rays brought Concord grads together for an evening of entertainment and friendship. Alumni were treated to picnics, giveaways and prizes at each of the events. It is exciting to see the number of people who have been participating and the enthusiasm they bring to get more Concord alumni reengaged with our university. Concord alumni enjoy an evening together at the West Virginia Power baseball game in Charleston, W.Va. on August 2. Pictured are (left to right) Jerry Stevens ’05; Avery, daughter of Jerry Stevens and Meghan SeibertStevens; Kent McBride ’06, head men’s basketball coach; Drew McClanahan ’08; Stefani Workman, head women’s soccer coach; & Meghan SeibertStevens ’05
As you will see in this edition of the alumni magazine, several alumni chapters are up and running again. I had the great fortune of spending time in New York City meeting with several people involved with the Yankee Chapter in late May. This group includes people living in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. A special thanks to everyone with the Yankee Chapter who works to stay organized and develop resources to keep the Mountain Lion family connected in the northern part of the country. Further south, the Greater Kanawha Valley Chapter in the Charleston, West Virginia area is officially up and running! This group has already elected officers and has met multiple times since forming earlier this year. With their help, the Office of Advancement welcomed nearly 100 alumni to a recent gathering in Charleston, West Virginia more than doubling attendance from last year!
Away-game tailgates are being planned this football season by the Office of Advancement with the help of the Greater Kanawha Valley Chapter, the New River Valley Chapter in the Blacksburg and Roanoke, Virginia areas as well as alumni in the Washington, D.C. area. Be sure to check the football schedule to see if you may be close enough to attend the games and support our football team as it attempts another successful season! We hope to CU on “The Campus Beautiful” on October 6 for Homecoming 2012!
Dr. Gregory F. Aloia Concord University President and Professor
Calendar of Events September 13, 2012 • Beckley Area Alumni Gathering • 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Daniel Vineyards, Crab Orchard, W.Va. September 15, 2012 • Pine Trees Chapter Fall Social • 6:00 p.m. - Registration Don & Pam Lane Garner’s Home 218 West Broadway Street, Athens, W.Va. September 16, 2012 • New River Valley Alumni Chapter Meeting • 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Ben and Carol Crawford’s RIVERPLACE 264 Cliff View Drive, Pembroke, Va.
September 22, 2012 • Greater Kanawha Valley Chapter Tailgate • Concord vs. WV State • 1:00 p.m. - Kickoff West Virginia State University, Institute, W.Va. September 29, 2012 • Washington, D.C./Martinsburg, W.Va. Area Alumni Tailgate • Concord vs. Shepherd • 12:00 noon - Kickoff Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, W.Va. October 1-6, 2012 • Homecoming Week October 5, 2012 • 4th Annual Career Symposium • Alumni Reception - 5:00 p.m. • Alumni Dinner - 6:00 p.m. October 6, 2012 • Alumni Brunch - 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 noon • Homecoming Game • Concord vs. Glenville State • Tailgate 1:00 p.m. • Kickoff 2:00 p.m. Callaghan Stadium October 11, 2012 • CU Foundation Charleston Dinner • 6:00 p.m. – Reception • 7:00 p.m. – Dinner The Clay Center, Charleston, W.Va. October 20, 2012 • New River Valley Area Alumni Tailgate • Concord vs. Liberty University • 3:30 p.m. Kickoff Liberty University, Lynchburg, Va. October 27, 2012 • Home Game Tailgate • Callaghan Stadium
November 3, 2012 • Home Game Tailgate • Callaghan Stadium
Inside this Issue Summer 2012
On the Cover At the age of 104, Dr. Roland P. Sharp ’36 is Concord’s current oldest living alumnus. He received the CUAA’s Golden Alumnus Award in May.
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Dr. Roland P.
Sharp ’36 Spring
Commencement
33
Three Concord Alumni Coach for
State Title
President Interim Vice President of Advancement Alumni Director
Dr. Gregory F. Aloia
Features
Alicia Besenyei
4
Alumni Events
7
New CUAA President Calling for Alumni Involvement
9
Alumni Honored at Spring Banquet
13
Special Heritage Spotlight - Dr. Roland P. Sharp ’36
17
2012 Spring Commencement
21
Concord University HOMECOMING 2012
25
Upward Bound Program Receives $640,000+ in Federal Funding
Sarah P. Dalton
26
Undergraduate Research Day Provides Forum for CU Students
Amy Pitzer
33
Concord Alumni Coach for State Title
Sarah Lively Turner '98
President, Concord University Alumni Association, Inc.
Jessica Cook '08
Graphic Designer
Lance McDaniel '10
Project Coordinator Editorial Assistant
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Concord University Office of Advancement PO Box 1000 Athens, WV, 24712 1-304-384-6311 Fax: 1-304-384-6017 advancement@concord.edu www.concord.edu
Departments 3
CU Alumni Association, Inc.
15
CU Foundation, Inc.
23
Horizon
29
Class Notes
33
CU Athletics
The CU Alumni Association, Inc. Membership in the CUAA, Inc. supports the following initiatives:
The membership year runs July 1 June 30 and you can use the membership form below and envelope included in this • Scholarships for Concord students • The formation of alumni chapters all magazine to mail in your membership. You can also submit your membership over the country • On-campus events for alumni such payment online through Concord’s website as Homecoming and the spring Alumni www.concord.edu/advancement/ memberships-giving. Upon receipt of your Banquet • Enhancement of Concord’s alumni membership dues, the Alumni Office will giving rate which influences national mail you a CUAA membership card to keep university rankings, consideration for on hand as proof of your membership. Everyone knows there is strength grants, etc. in numbers and the more dues paying members the Alumni Association has, Benefits for CUAA, Inc. the stronger the organization will be. If members include: you are already a member of the CUAA, • Discounts to on-campus events we hope you are planning to renew your • Tax-deductible contribution • Discounts to certain services, commitment to Concord for another year. If including the Concord Child you are not currently a CUAA member, we hope that you will consider joining today. Development Center • Gift recognitions for each level of Thanks in advance for your support of Concord, its students and the nearly 15,000 membership • Plans for additional benefits are alumni we have worldwide! currently in the works so this list will continue to grow
Upcoming Events
Beckley Area Alumni Gathering
Pine Trees Chapter Fall Social
New River Valley Alumni Chapter Gathering
September 13, 2012 Daniel Vineyards Crab Orchard, W. Va. 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
September 15, 2012 Home of Don & Pam Lane Garner ’66 218 West Broadway Street Athens, W.Va. 6:00 pm
September 16, 2012 Carol and Ben ’58 Crawford’s RIVERPLACE 264 Cliff View Drive Pembroke, Va. 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Join Us Today! CU Alumni Association, Inc. Individual Membership Form
Basic $10 - 24.99
Maroon & Gray Club $25 - 149.99
3
President’s Club $150 - 499.99
Life Membership $500 or more
I want to join! Check a box and return this slip in the envelope provided with this magazine. Please be sure to fill out your contact and payment information on the envelope inside this issue.
AlumniEvents Recent Events
Alumni Gather at Yankee Stadium The Yankee Chapter of the Concord Alumni Association held a Spring get-together at Yankee Stadium in New York City. Concord President Dr. Aloia and Alumni Association Director Sarah Lively Turner ’98 joined the group. During the weekend, some alumni enjoyed a Broadway play while others visited the 9/11 Memorial. Sal Gebbia ’70 and Ann Winston Gebbia ’69 received an award for traveling the greatest distance to the event. The Gebbias live in Kennenbunk, Maine. The group also acknowledged Jesse Lively’s ’06 donation of a new alumni banner to the chapter. For information about future chapter events, please contact Bob Gallione ’68, at rgallione@aol.com Concord Night at the Greensboro Grasshoppers Game
Approximately 15 Concord alumni came out to NewBridge Bank Park in Greensboro, N.C. on June 14, 2012 to enjoy an evening of fellowship, food and baseball! The Alumni Office provided a free picnic and complimentary admission to watch the Greensboro Grasshoppers take on the Charleston (SC) RiverDogs. Alumni were able to sit in their own section and were able to re-connect with old friends, while getting to know new ones as well. Shenna Russell ’04 was the winner of the CU door prize and the Grasshoppers win over the RiverDogs helped set them up to clinch the first-half title of the Northern Division that weekend. For information regarding future alumni activities in North Carolina or on how to start an alumni chapter in your area please contact the Alumni Office at alumni@concord.edu or 304-384-5348.
NY, NJ, CT, DE, MA, PA, RI, ME, NH, VT
(Left to right) Front row: Jesse Lively ‘06, Andreas Maerki ’11 and Robert Berliner ‘71 Back row: Joyce Jones (wife of Gordon Jones ’64), Eva Gallione (wife of Bob Gallione ’68), Ann Winston Gebbia ’69, Barbara Berg Richko ’72 and her husband Bill, CU President Dr. Gregory Aloia and Bob Gallione ‘68
Triad: Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Highpoint
(Left to right) Richard Bergstein ’82, Heather Wilburn Norris ’01, Kalie Berry-Wilson ’01, Mark Kessinger ’82, Sabrina Brown Hunt ’00 and her son Heath, Bonnie Stec ’70 and her husband John, Clarence Dorman ’59, Betty Dorman ’58, Jack Plymale ’67 and his wife Cindy, Shelley George ’01, Sarah Lively Turner ‘98
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AlumniEvents
Continued
Beckley, WV Area Concord Night at the WV Miners Game
(Left) Melva Jean Walker ’61 with her granddaughters, (bottom left) Melissa HarrahMooney ‘84; Joseph Harrah ’12; Shirley Harrah ’91; Rachel Harrah, Joseph & Shirley’s daughter, (below) Elizabeth Mullins-Reece ’78 and Steven Reece ‘78
Linda K. Epling Stadium in Beckley was the setting for Concord Night at the WV Miners Game held on June 9, 2012. Alumni and friends in attendance were treated to a free picnic dinner and received complimentary admission to watch the WV Miners take on the Butler (PA) Blue Sox. Melva Jean Walker ’61 was the winner of the night’s door prize and all attendees received a Concord item. The Alumni Office is in the process of organizing a Raleigh County alumni chapter. Anyone interested in being a part of this chapter is encouraged to contact the Alumni Office at alumni@ concord.edu or 304-384-5348.
Pine Trees Chapter Gathering The Board of Directors of the Pine Trees Alumni Chapter hosted a coffee and dessert social for the chapter membership on May 21. The event was held in the Erickson Alumni Center at University Point. Members enjoyed an assortment of desserts accompanied by the music of keyboardist Ethan Lafferty, a May 2012 Concord graduate. Drawings for a number of door prizes rounded out the evening’s activities. For more information on the Pine Trees chapter email pinetreesalumnichapter@hotmail. com
(Left to right) Joanna Fredeking ’73, Gail Rector ’63, Janie Farmer ’69, Karen Thorn ’73 5
Princeton, WV Area
Pat McGuire ’62 and her husband Ray
Deborah Gore Gillespie ’77 and Ethan Lafferty ‘12
Charleston, WV Area Greater Kanawha Valley Alumni Chapter Elects Officers
On June 26 the Greater Kanawha Valley Alumni Chapter held a business meeting for the newly formed chapter. The evening’s agenda included election of officers and the following alums were elected: Justin Marlowe ’01, President; Emily Myers ’02, Vice President; Joe Jenkins ’01, Treasurer; Christy McGinnis ’04, Secretary; Ashley Hicks ’11, Liaison to the Concord University Alumni Association; and, Eva Cardea ’62, Parliamentarian. The chapter held another meeting in late July and also participated in the CU Night at the WV Power baseball game on Aug. 2. Membership in the chapter is open to any alum in the Kanawha Valley area who is interested in connecting with fellow alums. The chapter is planning a variety of activities, including sponsoring a tailgate for alumni when Concord plays at WV State on Sept. 22. For additional information on the chapter please contact Chapter President, Justin Marlowe, at Justin_marlowe@yahoo.com or the Concord Alumni Office at alumni@ concord.edu
Greater Kanawha Valley Chapter officers (L to R): Emily Myers ‘02, Vice President; Christy McGinnis ‘04, Secretary; Justin Marlowe ‘01, President; Joe Jenkins ‘01, Treasurer; Ashley Hicks ‘11, Liaison to CUAA; Jessica Cook ‘08, President of CUAA; Eva Cardea ‘62, Parliamentarian Eva Kay Cardea ‘62, Joe Guilfoile ‘64, Faye Guilfoile ‘65
New Alumni Directory Coming Soon! The Concord University Alumni Association, Inc. has partnered with Publishing Concepts, Inc. (PCI) on producing a new Alumni Directory. Over the coming months, PCI will be contacting all alumni via email, postal mail and/or phone to verify
your contact information for the directory. They will also provide you with the opportunity to reserve a copy of the new Alumni Directory if you are interested in one. When PCI contacts you, we hope that you will
provide them with the information they need so that this project is a success!
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NewCUAAPresident
Calling for Alumni Involvement Jessica Cook ’08 Elected in May
T
he newly elected president of CU’s alumni association is calling for alums to “get involved.” “As President of the Concord University Alumni Association for 2012-2013, I want alumni to know that this is their year to get involved!” says Jessica L. Cook ’08. Cook was elected in May. “We hope to see many of your faces at the numerous alumni events that we have planned for the coming year,” she said. “In particular, the CUAA is actively planning activities for alumni during the University’s Homecoming on Oct. 6, 2012. We hope to see you there!” Cook is familiar with the role of president. While she was a student at Concord, she served as President of the Student Government Association. After graduating from Concord with a bachelor’s degree in political science, she was accepted at the West
Virginia University College of Law. At WVU, Cook was a dual degree student. She graduated from WVU in 2011 with a J.D. and an M.A. in Educational Leadership with an emphasis in Higher Education Administration. She is currently employed by the firm of Pullin Fowler Flanagan Brown & Poe in Beckley as an associate attorney. Cook has served on the Alumni Association’s Executive Council and is one of the recipients of the CUAA’s new Young Alumnus Award. (For more on this award and Cook’s fellow honorees see “Horizon” on page 23.) “Concord University has given me so much since I enrolled at the institution in 2004: a quality education, lifelong friendships, professional references, and priceless memories,” she said. “One of my primary goals as a member of the Alumni Association is to give back to Concord. I want to see our alma mater
Jessica Cook ’08
grow and prosper with the support of the Alumni Association. I hope that you will join me in this endeavor! “Please consider becoming a member of the CUAA,” she encourages alumni. “With membership starting at just $10, I promise that your membership contribution will be well worth it!”
Student Lopez, McReynolds Receive Employee Awards Senior Eric Lopez of Fairmont, W.Va. received Concord University’s Outstanding Student Employee Award for 20112012 during a ceremony held April 11 in the Alumni Lounge at University Point. Concord’s Career/ Advancement Services sponsors the award as a way to honor the contributions of student employees to the campus community. “We recognize what a McReynolds (left) and Lopez significant contribution our student employees make to the daily operation of Concord our students contribute we would not University,” Tammy Monk, director of be able to operate at the level that we Career/Advancement Services said. do. Thus we feel it is important to “Without the many hours of work that recognize the student employees that
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go above and beyond in the work they do for Concord.” Eric was nominated for the award by his supervisor in the Student Affairs Office/Academic Success Center, Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students Dr. Marjie Flanigan. He is a psychology major at Concord. Also receiving an award during the ceremony was runner-up Travis McReynolds, a junior secondary education major from Lebanon, Va. Travis was nominated by Deb Griffith who is supervisor of the mail office. All student nominees for the award and their supervisors were invited to the ceremony which also included a dessert reception.
Class of 2012 Celebrates at Sand sculpture by class of 2012 students Christina Henderson & Justin Walker
The CU Career/Advancement Services Office hosted a beach party for 2012 graduating seniors on the lawn of University Point Thursday, May 3. The soon-to-be Concord alums gathered for the fun-filled evening enjoyed a picnic, gifts, door prizes, games and music. Concord personnel from across campus helped host the celebration. Our newest alumni enjoying their sandless beach party
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U N IV D E R Alumni Oat
CONC
Y SIT R
Honored Banquet
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I
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H AT
EN
alumnus. He has served Concord in a number of capacities including president of the Alumni Association and as a member of the Foundation Board. Phil Jeffries ’58 accepted the award on behalf of Dr. Sharp. (For more on Dr. Sharp and his distinguished career and life see “Heritage” on page 13 of this magazine.) Ben Crawford ’58 was honored as the 2012 Outstanding Alumnus. This award recognizes a Concord alum who has made outstanding accomplishments in his or her professional and civic life. Ben has spent his professional career encouraging civic involvement in others. He was the CEO of Ruritan, one of America’s leading civic service organizations; served as a state specialist in leadership and volunteer development for Virginia Tech; was a professor at West Virginia University; worked in director level positions for Concord, Virginia Tech, Bluefield State, and the Greenbrier Valley Graduate Center; worked in the West Virginia Governor’s office; was an executive with the Boy Scouts; and served as director of the National 4-H Center in Washington, D.C. Ben has served on more than 100 boards, councils or commissions and is currently volunteering as the planning commissioner for the Town of Blacksburg. He has been honored as the organizer/founder of the Kiwanis Club of Montgomery County (Va.), as a
IA
G
uests enjoyed a spring evening on the patio of the John and Lucia Pais Family Fellowship Hall at University Point during the Alumni Association’s Annual Banquet May 11. Following this outdoor reception, dinner was served in the fellowship hall. The annual gathering of Concord University alumni offered an opportunity to reminisce, reacquaint, and honor accomplishments. The CUAA presented four awards to alumni for outstanding achievements and service. Dr. John David Smith ’76 was named the 2012 Alumnus of the Year. This honor recognizes a CUAA member who has contributed his or her time and/or talents to Concord University and the Concord University Alumni Association. John David has served Concord as professor, department chair, division chair, vice president for student affairs and dean of students, and vice president for academic affairs and academic dean. He is a longtime member of the Pine Trees Chapter and the Alumni Association serving as an active member of the CUAA Executive Board as well as two terms as president of the Alumni Association. He serves on the CU Foundation Board and currently serves as the board’s secretary. He is a director on 14 community, state, and national boards including southern WV Community Corrections where he serves as vice chair, ChildLaw, and Appalachian Area Agency on Aging. His record of
G S, W R I V E ST Dr. John David Smith ’76 receives the 2012 Alumnus of the Year Award
successful funded research exceeds half a million dollars every year. He is a member of the Athens Town Council and currently serves as the recorder for the Town of Athens. Dr. Roland P. Sharp ’36 received the 2012 Golden Alumnus Award. The Golden Alumnus is a CUAA member who has contributed time and/or talents to Concord University and the Concord University Alumni Association, with no less than 25 years of service to the Concord community. Dr. Sharp has spent his life serving others, first as a teacher and then as a physician. At the age of 104 he is Concord’s current oldest living
Portrait Unveiling
Mary Edna Beckett ’54
The Concord University Alumni Association commissioned Princeton, W.Va. artist J.R. Shuck to paint a portrait of Mary Edna Beckett ’54 in memory of her dedication to the organization. The portrait was unveiled at the Annual Banquet on May 11. According to Rosalie Peck ’63, Mary Edna holds the record of the longest consecutive membership in the Alumni Association (more than 30 years), the record for attending the most consecutive meetings (25 years), and the record for serving as treasurer (16 years). She also served on the CUAA Executive Council. Mary Edna was a resident of Athens. She retired from Concord University in 2005 following 46 years of faithful service. She was a 1950 graduate and valedictorian of Concord Training School and received her bachelor’s degree in education from Concord College in 1954 and her master’s degree from West Virginia University in 1959. Prior to starting her college career teaching mathematics and mathematics education at Concord founder of the Community Foundation of the New River Valley, and by Alpha Phi Omega of Virginia Tech with an Honorary Doctor of Leadership. He has received numerous awards, including the 1998 Montgomery County Citizen of the Year, the 2005 Jim and Lenna Moore Community Service and Citizenship Award, the 2007 national AARP Andrus Award, and the 2010 Acorns to Oaks Distinguished Citizen Award. Currently serving on the CUAA Executive Council, Ben has been honored previously with the Alumnus of the Year and Golden Alumnus awards. Receiving the Outstanding Alumnus Award makes him the “Triple Crown” winner of awards for
Remembered
College in 1959, she taught for the Mercer County School System at both Ramsey Jr. High and Central Jr. High in Bluefield. Mary Edna was well respected by her students and her peers serving several terms as Concord Faculty President and as chairperson of the Division of Natural Sciences. The Concord Alumni Association awarded her the Alumnus of Rosalie Peck ’63, left, and artist J.R. Shuck unveil a the Year and Golden portrait of Mary Edna Beckett ’54 honoring her faithful Alumnus honors service to the Alumni Association. during her years of service. She was the honored with the Total Community founder and sponsor of the Cardinal Involvement Award by the AthensKey National Honorary Society for Concord Town Social committee. That outstanding Concord students on same year she was named Athens campus and each year organized the Woman’s Club Citizen of The Year. Honors Banquet and served on the She was also a member of numerous commencement committee. professional organizations. She Mary Edna was also a respected passed away in August 2010. and active member of the Athens community. In 1995 she was
Ben Crawford ’58 being honored as the 2012 Outstanding Alumnus by Sarah Lively Turner ’98, Alumni Director 10
The Concord University ConChords provided entertainment
Concord’s alumni. The Alumni Association’s Executive Council members decided to start a new tradition this year by honoring some of Concord’s younger graduates who have already made significant accomplishments in their lives
since their time on “The Campus Beautiful.” The Young Alumnus Award was created to honor young alumni who have demonstrated distinctive achievement in a career, civic involvement, or both, and who have not been out of college more than 15 years. A distinguished quartet of Concord alums makes up this inaugural class of award winners. Recipients of the 2012 Young Alumnus Award are Ms. Courtney Clark ’09, Ms. Jessica Cook ’08, Coach Kent McBride ’06, and Mr. Brace Mullett ’98. (“Horizon” on page 23 of this issue spotlights the Young Alumnus honorees.) Sarah Lively Turner ’98, director of alumni affairs and executive director of the CUAA, presented the awards
assisted by CUAA Executive Council member Scott Inghram ’03. Turner served as emcee for the evening. President Gregory Aloia offered greetings from the University and Mr. Mullett spoke on behalf of Concord’s Board of Governors. A portrait commissioned by the CUAA in memory of Mary Edna Beckett ’54 was unveiled during the program by Rosalie Peck ’63 and the artist, J.R. Shuck of Princeton, W.Va. Members of Concord’s Class of 1962 and Class of 1987 gathered at the banquet for their 50th and 25th reunions respectively. The Concord University ConChords entertained with a vocal performance. Several graduating seniors were among the group.
SGA Honors Dr. Kathy Hawks
A+ with Friedl Award D
r. Kathy Hawks, a professor of education at Concord University, has been chosen as the 2012 recipient of the Joseph Friedl Award. The Student Government Association’s President, Grace Hurney, presented Dr. Hawks with the award for her outstanding performance and actions that went beyond what is required for her as a professor. The presentation was made at the final SGA meeting of the spring semester on May 2, 2012. When asked about the award’s meaning for her, Dr. Hawks said, “I guess we all like to hear compliments from our bosses and supervisors that we’re doing a good job, but when the students tell you, ‘We think you’re doing a good job,’ that’s the greatest compliment of all. That’s why I’m here. I’m here for the students and I love my job. This award has just reaffirmed that I’m where I’m supposed to be.” Dr. Hawks has been a professor at Concord University for 12 years and teaches students how to assess 11
reading, the methods to teach reading, and in the graduate program teaches reading specialists. She also volunteers her time during the summer to hold reading camps that help children to become more interested in reading. The Friedl Award was established in 1984 by the SGA in honor of the late Joseph Friedl, a former head football and basketball coach and associate professor of physical education. The purpose of the award is to “honor a faculty member who has unselfishly given of him or herself to further student development through student activities.” One of the factors considered in determining eligibility for this award is the faculty
Dr. Kathy Hawks displays her Joseph Friedl Award
member’s interactions with students outside the classroom. Cody Neff, an intern in Concord University’s Office of Advancement, wrote this article. He is from Lookout, W.Va.
Division of Social Sciences
Repeat Recipient of Top OSP Award
C
oncord University’s Division of Social Sciences has claimed the President’s Cup recognizing “Excellence in Sponsored Programs” for the second year. The announcement was made during The Second Annual Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) Awards Presentation Ceremony on May 4. Concord faculty, staff and students who participated in sponsored programs during Fiscal Year 2011 were recognized at the event that was held in the Rahall Technology Center. Dr. Jonathan Berkey, chairperson of the Division of Social Sciences, accepted the award. Social Sciences received more in sponsored funding than any other division on campus. Also receiving top honors are Dr.
Joseph Manzo, Most Valuable Player, for “Exemplary Dedication and Leadership in Sponsored Programs” and Dr. Gabriel Rieger, Rookie of the Year for “Outstanding Performance in the Submission of First Competitive Proposal.” Seventeen individuals received certificates of recognition for serving as a principal investigator of a new award in FY 2011. They were honored for securing program funding in FY 2011, and for demonstrating leadership and dedication in sponsored programs at Concord University. The honorees are: Dr. Joseph Allen, Dr. Katherine Arnoldi, Ms. Kathy Ball, Dr. Charles Brichford, Dr. Nancy Burton, Dr. David Chambers, Dr. Darrell Crick, Dr. Richard Druggish,
Ms. Nancy Ellison, Dr. Thomas Ford, Ms. Anna Mills-Hardy, Dr. Rodney Klein, Dr. Joseph Manzo, Ms. Pamela McPeak, Ms. Terri Philpott, Dr. Gabriel Rieger and Dr. John David Smith. Certificates of recognition for submitting a proposal in FY 2011 went to 14 persons, saluting their pursuit of sponsored programs at Concord. The recipients are: Dr. Joseph Allen, Dr. Katherine Arnoldi, Ms. Kathy Ball, Dr. Charles Brichford, Ms. Nancy Ellison, Dr. Alice Hawthorne-Allen, Dr. Joseph Manzo, Dr. Gabriel Rieger, Dr. Stephen Rowe, Mr. Kyle Schneider, Dr. John David Smith, Dr. Darla Wise, Ms. Roxanne Smoker (student) and Ms. Emily Wilson (student).
(Left to right) Dr. Jonathan Berkey receives the President’s Cup recognizing Excellence in Sponsored Programs, Dr. Joseph Manzo receives Most Valuable Player award, and Dr. Gabriel Rieger receives the Rookie of the Year award. Awards presented by Dr. Charles Becker, Vice President of Business & Finance and Director of the Research and Development Corporation.
Keeping Up With Concord Social media has allowed people to keep in touch with individuals, groups and activities all across the globe and Concord is using some of these tools to keep its alumni connected to the university and each other. You can keep up with Concord through any (or all!) of the following outlets:
Facebook— Concord University Alumni Association, Inc.
(Facebook changed the formats of their groups so if you were a member of the previous CUAA group you will need to “like” this new group.)
LinkedIn— Concord University Alumni group Twitter— @CampusBeautiful
Flickr— http://www.flickr.com/ photos/42005172@N02/sets/
We hope you will take advantage of each of these sites as a quick and easy way to keep up with Concord!
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Golden Alumnus Dr. Roland P. Sharp ’36 Celebrates Century of Accomplishments, Lifelong Commitment to Rural Medicine
D
r. Roland P. Sharp ’36 is an individual with a lifetime of outstanding accomplishments. Now, at the age of 104 he has the distinction of being Concord’s current oldest living alumnus. Dr. Sharp has spent his life serving others, first as a teacher and then as a physician. He was born on Dec. 30, 1907 in the community of Frost in Pocahontas County, W.Va. Roland received his early education in one-room schools and in 1926 became a teacher. For 11 years he taught and served as a principal. During this time, he attended summer sessions at Concord and received a bachelor’s degree in biology in 1936. He then earned his master’s degree in sociology from West Virginia University in 1939 and went on to get his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree in 1943 from A.T. Still University’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic 13
Medicine in Missouri. Dr. Sharp He has remained active with the remained briefly at KCOM where he WVSOM and in 1995 the school served as a professor and chair of the named their Alumni and Conference pathology department. Center in his honor. Each year the “Dr. He came back to West Virginia in 1944, settling in Wyoming County as a coal company doctor. In 1962 he returned to his native Pocahontas County and opened a clinic in Green Bank, W.Va. and also practiced in Marlinton, W.Va. Known for his dedication to educating West Virginia’s rural physicians, Dr. Sharp was one of the key players in establishing the Greenbrier College of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisburg, W.Va. in 1972 going on to serve the institution as dean and president. When the college became The West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in 1976, Dr. Sharp was instrumental in its formation. He served as the first president and is now President Dr. Sharp and Phil Jeffries ’58 Emeritus there.
“Roland P. Sharp, farm boy from Frost, elder son of Concord, father of healthcare in the hills and hollows of the Mountain State, you are known throughout West Virginia for your commitment to keeping us hale and hearty… Your life as a teacher, professor, administrator and physician is testimony to your genuine concern for the welfare of the people of West Virginia.”
(Back to front, left to right) Phil Jeffries ’58, Dr. Gregory F. Aloia, Nell Jeffries ’53, & Dr. Sharp ’36
Roland P. Sharp Award” is presented to a medical student at the WVSOM for outstanding achievement. Dr. Sharp continues to be a committed and loyal supporter of Concord. He is one of the major donors to University Point naming the Career/Advancement Services Office located there in memory of his first wife, the late Opal Price Sharp ’31. He also established the Sharp Memorial Fund Scholarship which is awarded to Concord University students. On November 23, 1951 the Concord College (University) Alumni Association became officially incorporated by the West Virginia Secretary of State. Dr. Sharp was among the members of the incorporating committee. He later served as president of the Alumni Association. He has also served his alma mater as a member of the
Foundation board. Dr. Sharp has served on numerous boards and been affiliated with many professional organizations including the West Virginia State Board of Health, the West Virginia Society of Osteopathic Medicine, West Virginia Academy of Science, the American Osteopathic Association and the Federation of State Licensing Boards. With a century of achievements to his credit, Dr. Sharp has received many honors and awards. He received an honorary degree from Concord University during the Charter Day convocation in 2006. The degree of doctor of humanitarian service, honoris causa, recognizes Dr. Sharp’s commitment to rural healthcare in West Virginia. The Concord University Alumni Association honored him with the 2012 Golden Alumnus Award in May. The award acknowledges a CUAA
Citation awarding the degree of doctor of humanitarian service, honoris causa February 28, 2006 member who has contributed time and/or talents to Concord University and the Concord University Alumni Association, with no less than 25 years of service to the Concord community. Dr. Sharp has been recognized with the George Northup Outstanding Physician Award and in 1971 he was named West Virginia General Practitioner of the Year. A.T. Still University’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine and the Kirksville Osteopathic Alumni Association (KOAA) presented him with the Distinguished Service Award in 2008. Dr. Sharp and his wife, Kit, currently have a farm in Pocahontas County (Marlinton) as well as a home in Oak Hill, W.Va.
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The CU Foundation, Inc.
Charleston Area Alums
start endowed scholarship Bill ’57 and Harriet ’57 (Maxey) Deel of Charleston, W.Va. have started an endowed scholarship with Concord University Foundation in honor of their parents, Clyde and Elizabeth Maxey and Emery and Myrtle Deel. The Maxey/Deel Scholarship will support southern West Virginia students pursuing an education at Concord University. After receiving a degree in accounting at Concord College, Bill Deel worked for a CPA firm before becoming a United Methodist Minister. Eventually,
he served as Director of Administrative Services and Treasurer of the West Virginia Conference of the United Methodist Church. Harriet Deel received a degree in education and spent 25 years with the West Virginia Department of Education. The Deels are excited to start this scholarship honoring their parents and are happy to give back to Concord University and its students.
Bill ’57 and Harriet ’57 Deel
Doug Maddy ’69
Named Chairman of CU Foundation Board Doug Maddy ’69 has been appointed Chairman of the Concord University Foundation Board of Directors. His two-year term began on July 1, 2012. He has served on the CU Foundation Board of Directors since 2005. Maddy received a bachelor’s degree from Concord and a master’s degree from Marshall University. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1969 to 1973. He worked for the Fayette County Chamber of Commerce for 13 years. While he was employed with the chamber, the
President Aloia with Doug Maddy ’69 15
world famous Bridge Day Festival began. Maddy served as an Economic Development Representative under Governor Gaston Caperton from 1989 to 1991 in what is now known as the West Virginia Development Office. He was CEO of the West Virginia Banker’s Association from 1995-2005. Maddy is currently CEO of the Southern West Virginia Convention and Visitors Bureau, a position he has held since 2005. He is a resident of Scarbro, W.Va.
The CU Foundation, Inc.
Jack Furst Keynoting
CU Foundation Scholarship Fund-raiser
P
hilanthropist, businessman and lifelong Boy Scouts of America volunteer Jack Furst will be the keynote speaker for the upcoming Concord University Foundation Charleston Dinner. The scholarship fund-raiser is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 11, 2012 at the Clay Center in Charleston, W.Va. A reception will begin at 6 p.m. followed by dinner at 7 p.m. A member of the BSA’s National Executive Board and an officer of the National Council, Furst chaired the site selection committee of The Summit Bechtel Family National Scout Reserve. The base, located in the New River Gorge area of West Virginia, will open in 2013. He is a 2010 recipient of the Silver Buffalo Award for Distinguished
Service to Youth, the BSA’s highest commendation. Furst is also an Eagle Scout and the team leader of Project Arrow. His business interests include ranching and private investments, and he lives with his family at their ranch in Argyle, Texas. He is an adjunct professor of finance at the University of North Texas and a board member of the National Safety Council. Furst holds an undergraduate degree from Arizona State University and a graduate degree from the University of Texas at Austin. To purchase tickets for the Charleston Dinner contact Kerri Zaferatos, Concord University Foundation executive director, at zaferatosk@concord.edu or 304384-6056. Individual seating, tables
Jack Furst
and sponsorships of the event are available.
a Mountain
Lion Charles W. Pace of Princeton, left, is recognized for more than three decades of service to the Concord University Foundation, Inc. Board Chairman David Kirby ’79, right, presents Pace with a plaque during the Foundation’s Board of Directors meeting May 11 at University Point. “Over the years, your loyal service and support have made a difference in the lives of hundreds of students at Concord University,” reads the inscription on the plaque.
The Advancement Office has made every effort to ensure all alumni are receiving copies of the Alumni Magazine. However, we know that there are some alumni that we do not have a current mailing address for and because of this, they are not receiving their magazine. If you know of a classmate or friend who is not receiving the Alumni Magazine, please encourage them to submit their current mailing address to us at alumni@concord. edu or 304-384-5348. If you are the parent of an alum and your child’s magazine is still coming to your house, please send us their current address so that we can get their magazine to them. Thanks for helping us ensure all Concord alums are getting this publication!
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T
he Class of 2012 joined the ranks of Concord alumni during Spring Commencement Saturday, May 12. Two ceremonies were held in the main gym of the Leslie R. and Ruby Webb Carter Center to accommodate the number of graduates and their families and guests. The morning program began at 10 a.m. followed by the afternoon event at 2 p.m. Students participated in the ceremonies based on their fields of study. The morning ceremony included candidates for graduation in the master’s program and undergraduates from the divisions of Business, Education and Human Performance, and Fine Arts. Participating in the afternoon ceremony were candidates for graduation from the divisions of Languages and Literature, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Interdisciplinary Studies, and the Regents program. Candidates meeting requirements for
Above, Junie Eades Doyle ’62 (left) & Fonda Whanger-Hawley ’62, members of the 50th reunion class, wait for the commencement ceremonies to begin
Continued on page 19
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graduation in May 2012 and December 2011 and those who could qualify for graduation in August 2012 participated in the May 12 commencement. Members of Concord’s Class of 1962 had the distinctive honor of leading the morning procession as the 50-Year Class. Valedictorian for the Spring 2012 Class is Carrie Elizabeth Honaker of Ronceverte, W.Va. She graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Education degree. Her major was secondary education and her teaching field was music pre-kadult. A reception was held on the front lawn of the Carter Center following both ceremonies. Prior to the afternoon ceremony, the Division of Social Sciences hosted a reception in the State Room. To see a list of candidates for graduation go to: http://www.concord.edu/ news/2012/05/22/concorduniversity-holds-spring-2012commencement For photos from the event visit: http://www.flickr.com/ photos/42005172@N02/ sets/72157629698143592/
Directly below: Concord spring Class of 2012 valedictorian Carrie Elizabeth Honaker
Gattoni Honored in Special Ceremony
Joel Gattoni, third from left, receives his diploma from, left to right, Carolyn Cox, registrar; Dr. George Towers, associate academic dean; and President Gregory Aloia. Gattoni now plays for the London Majors, a member of the Intercounty Baseball League based in London, Ontario, Canada. 19
Walking across the stage to receive a diploma is a milestone moment for college students. But as the saying goes “You can’t be in two places at once.” That’s the situation Joel Gattoni found himself in on May 12. A member of Concord University’s Class of 2012 – and a member of the 2012 Mountain Lions baseball team – Gattoni had two important places to be. One was in the main gym of the Carter Center for commencement. And, the other was with his
teammates in Johnstown, Pa. for the WVIAC baseball tournament. Joel made the decision to stick with the team and forego graduating with his classmates. The Thornhill, Ontario, Canada resident was honored upon his return to campus with a special commencement ceremony. President Aloia gathered with Concord faculty, staff, administrators and members of the athletic department in the Concord Room and presented Gattoni with his diploma.
West Virginia Humanities Council Conducts
Grant-Writing Workshop T
he Concord University Office of Sponsored Programs hosted a grant-writing workshop on May 4, 2012. Amy Saunders, grants administrator for the West Virginia Humanities Council, conducted the workshop. Concord faculty and staff, along with members of the community, were invited to attend. The event was held in the Rahall Technology Center. The goal of the program was to better acquaint attendees with the Humanities Council’s grant guidelines and application process. The West Virginia Humanities Council is the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities and serves West Virginia through
grants and direct programs in the humanities. A variety of matching grants are offered by the Council year-round to nonprofit organizations in West Virginia that support educational programming.
Homer K. Ball
Amy Saunders explaining the grantwriting process
Memorial Scholarship Golf Tournament
Held June 8
T
he winning foursome of the annual Homer K. Ball Memorial Scholarship Golf Tournament includes Dr. John Seago, Professor of Psychology, Emeritus; Dr. Jim White, Professor of Political Science; Tom White, Jim White’s son; and Dr. David Bard, Professor of History, Emeritus. The competition was held Friday, June 8, 2012 at Pipestem Resort State Park. Proceeds from the tournament are used to fund scholarships for Concord University students. Through the years, the event has raised more than $200,000 and funded approximately 800 scholarships for Concord students. Ball, a Lerona, W.Va. native, graduated from Concord in 1948. He served as sheriff of Mercer County, West Virginia state senator and director of the physical plant at Concord. Ball was also an avid golfer. In 1991, the annual golf tournament
benefitting Concord was named in his honor. After his passing in 2008, the tournament was renamed the Homer K. Ball Memorial Scholarship Golf Tournament. The captain’s choice tournament began with a shotgun start on Pipestem’s 18-hole course. A luncheon followed in the picnic shelter near the golf course.
Winners of the tournament: Dr. John Seago, Professor of Psychology, Emeritus; Dr. Jim White, professor of Political Science; Tom White, Jim White’s son; Dr. David Bard, Professor of History, Emeritus
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omecoming 2012 is Oct. 1-6 at Concord University and all alumni and friends are invited to join the celebration. Activities are planned throughout the week all leading up to the big football game on Saturday, Oct. 6. The CU Mountain Lions – 2011 WVIAC champions – tangle with the Glenville State Pioneers. Kickoff is 2 p.m. at Callaghan Stadium. If you can get back to campus before Saturday’s game, you’ll find the fun already in full swing. Candidates representing Greek and other organizations will compete in a weeklong quest for the Homecoming crowns. Joined by members of their sororities, fraternities and clubs, they dance to attention grabbing choreography, dress up in elaborate and outlandish costumes, create one-of-a-kind billboards and floats, hand out candy and other campaign treats, and march down Vermillion Street in the parade. Along with a popular vote, candidates garner points in the lip sync event, billboard contest, and the costume, banner and float competitions during the annual Homecoming Parade. The organizations with the highest point total are crowned Homecoming Royalty during halftime at the game. The parade will take place on
Thursday, Oct. 4 at 6 p.m. followed by the traditional bonfire in the Valley. The lip sync contest is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 5 at 8 p.m. in the Carter Center gym. Other events planned earlier in the day on Oct. 5 include the Career Symposium, the Alumni Reception at 5 p.m. and the Alumni Dinner at 6 p.m. The Career Symposium, in its fourth year, offers alumni workplace experience to current Concord students. Sponsored by the CUAA, the Alumni Dinner brings alums together for an evening of reminiscing and renewing acquaintances. Details will be announced at a later date. An Alumni Brunch is planned for Oct. 6 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon. New to Homecoming this year is the special Lion’s Den Tailgate beginning at 1 p.m. This event is reserved for invited guests and members of the Concord University Alumni Association. Members of the 1962 and 1987 championship football teams will gather at Callaghan Stadium for their 50th and 25th reunions, respectively, and will be honored prior to the start of the game. For more information on Homecoming 2012 email advancement@concord.edu or alumni@concord.edu or call 304384-6311 or 304-384-5348.
CU ATHLETIC TRAINING EDUCATION PROGRAM STUDENTS
Make
HIGH MARKS
at State Conference
(From left to right) - Kyle Schneider, Britnee Gibson, Casey Gerber, Seth Taylor, Joe Greenway, Kacey Hildebrand, Kayla Bayles, Hiromi Kowata, Kat Naglee, Tiffany Kobordo, Dr. Joe Beckett
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oncord University students in the Athletic Training Education Program fared well in competitions at the 2012 West Virginia Athletic Trainers Association (WVATA) Annual Conference. The event was held in Morgantown, W.Va. Feb 17-18. Two of Concord’s Athletic Training faculty and nine students enrolled in the program attended. The CU quiz bowl team was runnerup with West Virginia University in first place. “I was personally very happy and proud, since this was our first year entering this event,” Dr. Joseph A. Beckett, professor and director of Concord’s Athletic Training Education Program, said. Members of the quiz bowl team
are Kacey Hildebrand, Huntington, W.Va.; Tiffany Kobordo, New Tripoli, Pa.; Hiromi Kowata, Kamakura City, Kanagawa, Japan; and Seth Taylor, White Sulphur Springs, W.Va. Of the four students accepted for oral presentations at the WVATA Conference, Concord had two of these students. Kowata’s presentation on “Femoralacetabular Impingement” placed 2nd and Casey Gerber’s presentation on “Cervical Dislocation of the C5-C6 Vertebrae” was voted 3rd in the student oral presentations competition. Gerber is a resident of Virginia Beach, Va. “I was very happy and proud because again this was the first time that any of Concord AT students had ever been selected to
present,” Beckett said. Additionally, Britnee Gibson’s poster presentation on “Scaphoid Fractures” placed in the top five of student poster presentations statewide. Gibson is from Wharncliffe, W.Va. Concord students also attending included Kayla Bales, Princeton, W.Va.; Joe Greenway, Roanoke, Va.; and Kat Naglee, Spanishburg, W.Va. Joining Beckett as a Concord faculty representative at the conference was Kyle Schneider, clinical education coordinator.
Wonderland Adirondack for ‘Chairity’ Auction
Art Student Paints
Concord University art student Nicole Suptic painted an Adirondack chair with an Alice in Wonderland theme for a “Chairity” auction benefitting the Women’s Resource Center in Beckley. Lori Pace, a sociology instructor and director of student services for Concord in Beckley, worked with her sociology students and held fund-
raisers to purchase Suptic’s Adirondack chair. Suptic’s art instructor Mark Moore said she painted the chair as part of her coursework in one of his art classes this spring. The “Chairity” Auction Adirondacks were on display at Crossroads Mall until the auction was held at Daniel Vineyards Friday, May 18.
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Heritage & Horizon Young Alums Recognized for Distinction in Careers and Community Service
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our accomplished graduates of Concord University have been recognized this year with the CUAA’s newly created Young Alumnus Award. The honor salutes young alumni who have demonstrated distinctive achievement in a career, civic involvement or both and who have not been out of college more than 15 years. The awards were presented at the CUAA Alumni Banquet on Friday, May 11 at University Point. The inaugural class of award winners includes Ms. Courtney Clark ’09, Ms. Jessica Cook ’08, Coach Kent McBride ’06, and Mr. Brace Mullett ’98. Courtney Clark earned degrees in English and journalism at Concord. A Mercer County native, she has worked for the Register-Herald in Beckley and currently works for WVNS-TV as the evening anchor and a reporter. She describes how her Concord education is helping in her career as a journalist. “Like many 18-year-olds, I didn’t have a clue what I wanted to be ‘when I grew up.’ I started in business, then moved on to social work, before I finally buckled down with a focus in English. Concord allowed me to try different majors and that experience Courtney Clark ’09 has helped mold me into the journalist I am today. It made me open-minded and more understanding of the situations I would eventually come across in the field,” she said. “I’m thankful for the small class sizes and the professors that actually wanted to get to know us on a personal level,” she said. “I felt comfortable talking with them on a one-onone basis, and they were always available for consultation before and after class. Those relationships have not only helped me in my job search, but as I have kept in touch with many of those professors, they continue to help me in my career. “I simply couldn’t put a price tag on my education at Concord. It’s invaluable,” Courtney said. “Through the PROMISE Scholarship and academic and student activity scholarships from Concord, I was fortunate to enter the workforce debt-free. Not only was I fortunate enough to receive scholarships...I received an education that I believe is among the best in the state. In fact, I think Concord should rank nationwide.” An involved student at Princeton Senior High School and at Concord, Courtney is a supporter of the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life program and in 2011 she organized the “Sweet Feet: Walk to Cure Diabetes” in Princeton. The inaugural walk raised more than $5,000 toward the cause
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and Courtney continues her involvement with the 2012 event. Jessica Cook earned a bachelor’s degree in political science before heading to the West Virginia University College of Law. While at WVU she was a dual degree student, earning her J.D. and her M.A. in Educational Leadership with an emphasis in Higher Education Administration in 2011. While in law school she served as a legal intern for the WV Higher Education Policy Commission; a student caller for the WVU Foundation; a legal extern in the Contempt Litigation and Compliance Jessica Cook ’08 Branch for the National Labor Relations Board and as a legal intern for WVU’s Student Legal Services. Some of the highlights of her Concord days include serving as the 2007-2008 Student Body President, working for The Concordian, serving as a teaching assistant, resident assistant and Student Center manager. She was honored in 2005 as Concord’s Academic Woman of the Year and in 2011 with the WVU College of Law Pro Bono Service Award. She is a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority and currently serves as the Alumnae Relations Advisor for Concord’s chapter. While in law school she worked one summer as a Law Clerk for the firm of Pullin Fowler Flanagan Brown & Poe in Beckley and is now employed by the firm as an Associate Attorney. She is a current member of the CUAA Executive Council and in May was elected to serve as the Alumni Association’s President for 2012-2013. Jessica shares what it means to be recognized by the CUAA with the new Young Alumnus honor. “The Concord community had a great deal to do with my achievements as a young professional, and I am honored that it chose to recognize me as one of the recipients of the Young Alumnus Award,” she said. “Seeing individuals like Ben Crawford and John David Smith being honored at this same alumni banquet made the award even more special to me, as I know just how dedicated these individuals are to Concord University,” she said. “Let us all strive to serve Concord as they do!” Kent McBride, a Mullens native, earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Concord. He played basketball and was the starting point guard during all four of his years as a Mountain Lion. His 504 career assists rank him fourth in program history. The Mountain Lions had a .562 winning percentage during his playing days, including a 22-7 record in 2003-04.
Heritage & Horizon After graduating from Concord, “I take a lot of pride in the Kent spent two seasons as an education I received at Concord. assistant coach at West Virginia I had a number of world-class Wesleyan College and earned a professors and their focus was Master of Business Administration on teaching students, not simply there in 2008. Next, he spent a year as research and writing,” he said. an assistant coach at Wyoming East “Concord is also home to me. My High School (his alma mater) and father and mother both attended helped guide that team to a runnerhere. My father was Student Body Kent McBride ’06 Brace Mullett ’98 up finish in the 2009 WV Class AA State President, a football player, and now a Tournament. He then spent two seasons Concord University Hall of Famer. as the top assistant coach at Glenville State College before “I also had the privilege of growing up in the Concord being chosen as the 14th Head Men’s Basketball Coach community after my father became the Head Football at Concord in 2011 after Coach Steve Cox announced his Coach in the 80s. To have former President Dr. Joe Marsh, retirement. former President Dr. Jerry Beasley, Dr. David Bard, and During his first season as head coach of the Mountain former basketball coach Steve Cox as my neighbors during Lions he led the team to a 17-12 finish and a run to the my formative years had a major impact on my life,” he said. WVIAC Tournament semi-finals. This was the best win “Knowing people on a personal level is such a unique part percentage at Concord since the 2003-2004 season, and the of the experience here at Concord and rounded out my highest conference finish since the 2006-2007 season. ‘education.’” Kent reflects on the honor of being named one of the first Brace says his Concord education helps mark the way in recipients of the Young Alumnus Award. his career. “It means a great deal to be honored in any capacity “My education at Concord has been invaluable in my by Concord University,” he said. “Over the last ten years, career. First, the broad scope, liberal arts education taught Concord University has granted me many opportunities and me how to be an analytical thinker. I was challenged in a advantages that made me the professional I am today. number of different academic fields the first year and then “So, I want to give back to Concord in any way possible. was offered a variety of specialized courses in my chosen Thank you to the Advancement Department and I look fields (political science and business) as I advanced,” he forward to working together in the future,” he said. said. “But the most important element of my education was Brace Mullett graduated from Concord in 1998 with the non-classroom lessons I received from my relationships a bachelor’s degree in political science and received a with the people who made Concord great, such as, Don and J.D. degree from Washington & Lee University School Jean Christie, Bob Brown, Will Johnson, Steve Cox, Debbie of Law. He was a partner with Dinsmore & Shohl in the Curry, Dr. Jerry Beasley and so many others that provide firm’s Charleston office before becoming General Counsel guideposts for me every day in my career.” and Senior Vice President for City Holding Company in Charleston, W.Va. Currently serving Concord University as a member of the Board of Governors, Brace is also an adjunct professor for Concord. He is a board member for Legal Aid of West Virginia, the Appalachian Education Initiative (West Virginia’s Kennedy Center Affiliate) and Edgewood Country Club. He is also an active member of the bar, including service as the President of the Kanawha County Bar Association, as a member of Defense Trial Counsel of West Virginia and as a member of the Association of Corporate Counsel. Brace has been recognized multiple times by his peers as a Super Lawyers Rising Star in Law & Politics Magazine. Brace spent many hours on campus before he became a student at Concord because his father, Bob Mullett ’73 served nine seasons (Left to right) Jessica Cook ’08, Brace Mullett ’98, Courtney Clark ’09, & Kent as Head Coach of the Mountain Lion football McBride ’06 stop and pose with their Young Alumnus Awards during this year’s team. CUAA Alumni Banquet
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CONCORD UNIVERSITY UPWARD BOUND PROGRAM
Receives $640,000+
IN FEDERAL FUNDING
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oncord University’s Upward Bound Program has received more than $640,000 in federal funding for two programs that provide academic skills and motivation for area high school students in their pursuit of a college degree. A grant in the amount of $390,929 was awarded to continue service
The Concord University Upward Bound Program was highlighted in the 2012 U.S. Department of Education’s Programs of Excellence, the only program nationwide to receive this distinction.
to 87 eligible participants annually from five rural target high schools in McDowell, Mercer and Summers counties. A new program that will serve 60 additional eligible participants per year from Princeton and PikeView high schools in Mercer County, and James Monroe High School in Monroe County is being funded through a second grant for $249,960. These grants are for the first budget period that runs from Sept.1, 2012 through Aug. 31, 2013. It is anticipated that the grants will be for a total of five years.
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The Concord University Upward Bound Program was highlighted in the 2012 U.S. Department of Education’s Programs of Excellence, the only program nationwide to receive this distinction. Pamela D. McPeak is Director of the Upward Bound Program at Concord and has served in that capacity since 1996. Other staff members include: Barbara Rush, Lead Counselor; Michael Craighead, Outreach Counselor; and Melissa Richmond, Grant Resource Associate. Students participating in Upward Bound receive tutorial assistance at their local high schools, attend Saturday enrichment sessions, and spend six weeks each summer in a residential college setting at Concord University where they receive instruction by certified school teachers in math, English, reading, science, foreign language, computer technology and other academic classes. Students receive assistance with financial aid, college admissions, scholarships, the ACT and SAT tests and career counseling. The program also allows students to participate in cultural trips, campus visits to in-state and out-of-state colleges and many other activities. Upward Bound is one of eight outreach and student services Federal TRIO Programs designed to identify and provide services for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. TRIO programs assist low-income, first-generation college students, and individuals with disabilities to successfully progress through the academic pipeline from middle school to post-baccalaureate programs. Federal TRIO Programs were established by the Higher Education Act of 1965, and amended by the
Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008. Eligible applicants include institutions of higher education, public or private agencies or organizations, including community-based organizations with experience in serving disadvantaged youth, secondary schools, and combinations of institutions, agencies, organizations, and secondary schools.
Upward Bound is one of eight outreach and student services Federal TRIO Programs designed to identify and provide services for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. TRIO programs assist low-income, first-generation college students, and individuals with disabilities to successfully progress through the academic pipeline from middle school to post-baccalaureate programs.
UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH DAY
Provides Forum for CU Students
Dr. Thomas S. Critchfield delivers his keynote address
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oncord University’s McNair Scholars Program, along with the psychology faculty, hosted the fifth annual Undergraduate Research Day on Thursday, April 19 in the Ballroom of the Jerry L. Beasley
CU Student Garrett Johnson
Student Center. A Graduate and Professional School Fair was held in the Ballroom Lobby in conjunction with the event. This year’s Undergraduate Research Day featured approximately 100 posters and 17 paper presentations by undergraduates from Concord University and Bluefield State College. BSC is a partnering institution through Concord’s McNair Program.
Dr. Thomas S. Critchfield, professor of psychology at Illinois State University, presented the keynote address. Critchfield focuses on translational science in his work by applying research to socially relevant issues. He is a Past President of the Association for Behavior Analysis International and Division 25 (Behavior Analysis) of the American Psychological Association. Currently, he serves as Trustee of the Cambridge Center for Behavioral Studies, Research Coordinator for The Autism Place at Illinois State University, and Advisory Board member for the Wing Institute on Evidence-Based Education. The McNair Program and Concord’s psychology faculty joined in partnership several years ago to present Undergraduate Research Day as it is today. Dr. Karen Griffee, associate professor of psychology, said the event grew out of the need for a forum where Concord students could present their research. Griffee and Dr. Rod Klein, professor of psychology and director of McNair, are co-founders of the event. “Our current URD began as a wild idea that came out of conversations between me and Dr. Rod Klein,” Griffee said. “We had lots of psychology students conducting really great research projects, but neither they nor we could afford to take them all to psychology conferences. We spoke with Joe Allen and others in the Division of Natural Sciences and
they reported similar pride in their students’ work and a similar need. So, we decided we wanted to create our own research conference right here at Concord, originally intended for undergraduate students specifically doing scientific research. “The McNair Program had for years hosted an annual, undergraduate research conference specifically for McNair students. They were already experts in organizing such an event, and so we worked with the McNair Program to transform the existing annual McNair conference into a new one, on a much larger scale that incorporates both the McNair conference functions and the new one we hoped to develop,” she said.
There were approximately 100 posters at this year’s event 26
Accounting Student Receives
WVSCPA award
T
he West Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants (WVSCPA) has named Greg Weaver from Corinne, W.Va. the Outstanding Accounting Senior from Concord University for the 2011-2012 academic year. Weaver was one of four accounting seniors nominated by Concord’s accounting faculty and he was selected for the honor by the Recruiting and Opportunity Project Group of the WVSCPA. He received a $250 cash award and a plaque recognizing his achievement from the WVSCPA. With this award he is recognized for his scholarship which should serve him well as he prepares to take the CPA exam. The networking opportunities created by the honor will also be valuable. Weaver currently serves as an Accounting Technician intern with the IRS Finance Center in Beckley, W.Va. in the Student Career and Experience Program (SCEP). He will graduate with his degree in business administration in May 2013.
Career Symposium
REMINDER!
It’s time to register to participate in the 2012 Career Symposium scheduled for Friday, Oct. 5. This annual event is a great opportunity to share your “real life” career and graduate/professional school knowledge with current CU students. The registration form can be found at www.concord.edu under Alumni & Donors. Please contact the Career/Advancement Services office at 304-384-5325 or email careerservices@concord.edu with questions or suggestions.
FACULTY STAFF
News
D
r. Sally Howard, associate professor of political science, attended the WV-FACDIS 2012 Scholar-Diplomat Program, “Arab Spring or American Autumn? The Changing Role of the United States in the Middle East” in April. The conference was held in Washington, D.C.
Dr. Lauri Reidmiller, assistant professor of art, presented “Kuna Molas” at the West Virginia Art Education Association’s “Day in the Studio” Professional Development Conference at Tamarack. Assisting with the presentation were Concord University’s Art Education students, Kate Armentrout, Brittany Cantley, and David Poticher. The presentation explored the history, processes, and techniques used to create Paper Molas. It also provided the art 27
teachers in attendance methods of integrating this process into their existing art curriculums and adapting the lesson for multiple grade levels. Among the art teachers in attendance were several Concord alumni and future alumni Holly Jackson, Morgan Runyon and Margaret Baker.
Dr. Stephen Rowe, professor of English, was elected vice president of Alpha Chi’s Region V. Alpha Chi is a national college honor society. Election of officers was held at the organization’s super-regional convention March 22-24 in Baltimore. Rowe’s term is for 2012-2014.
(Above) Kate Armentrout helping present at the West Virginia Art Education Association’s “Day in the Studio” Professional Development Conference at Tamarack. (Below, left to right) Dr. Lauri Reidmiller, Kate Armentrout, & Brittany Cantley
Alum Publishes children’s book
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orene Young ’59, a retired teacher, has published her first children’s book, one she wrote 35 years ago. Young wrote “Cathy the Castaway Cat” while teaching special education students in Monroe County, W.Va. Unable to find a publisher then, the book lay in a dresser drawer and file cabinet for decades until Publish America in Frederick, Md., picked up the title last fall. The story is about a homeless cat that finds a friend and a home in an
unlikely place. Sandy Lilly Woodyard ’79 of Narrows, Va., also a Concord alum, illustrated the book. The Youngs and Lillys were neighbors and friends in Forest Hill, W.Va. when Young wrote the book. “I just had a dream of writing children’s books,” Young said, “and I had a dream that before I died, I wanted to see this one published.” Cathy’s story shows that when one person takes a stand, others’ lives are affected, she said, adding that Woodyard was an obvious artist when she illustrated the book as a high school student. Young taught for 25 years after being a stay-at-home mother. She wrote stories for her students to help them learn their spelling words and skits and songs during her years as a church and 4-H volunteer leader. Young graduated from Concord with dual degrees in home economics and library science. She spent most of her teaching career at Greenville School and taught at Peterstown Middle School after consolidation. Young also served as testing coordinator for Monroe County schools. She grew up in Greenville, W.Va.
and was married to the late Weldon Young, a retired Celco electrician. They have three children and three grandchildren. The family moved to Summers County in 1975. Woodyard, who grew up in Rich Creek, Va., teaches at Peterstown Elementary School in Monroe County and graduated from Concord with degrees in elementary and art education.
GiftIdea Support the CUAA “The Campus Beautiful” is a print by well-known artist P. Buckley Moss produced especially for Concord University in conjunction with the Concord University Alumni Association, Inc. Print size is 11”x13”. Cost is $100 with $15 shipping and handling for each print.
Make all checks payable to: Concord University Alumni Association, Inc. Mail to: CUAA, PO Box 1000, Campus Box 83, Athens, WV 24712. When ordering, please include your name, phone number, email address, and a street address for shipping. Contact Sarah Lively Turner ’98 in the alumni office at 304-384-5348 for more information. 28
Class Notes Achievements Al Feher ’49 has published his third book entitled “Lynch, Ky. 1917 to Present.” Feher’s other two books are “Escape from Hungary” and “Ellis Island to Lynch, Ky.” He and his wife Mary Jane live in Lynch, Ky.
The following Concord alumni were inducted into the McDowell County Sports Hall of Fame on May 6: Ira Blankenship ’52— was a standout basketball and football player at Iaeger High School and lettered in the same sports at Concord. He also coached three sports and served as Concord’s Athletic Director. John Brant ’55—played football and baseball at Concord and led the school to its first conference baseball title in 1954. Wayne Hicks ’65—lettered in track and football at Concord. He is a member of the Concord University Sports Hall of Fame. Justin Friedl, who played three sports at Western Kentucky, was a football coach at Concord. Bob Pearl ’54 was recently featured in the Los Altos Town Crier for performing handstands in front of 12 U.S. state capitol buildings. Pearl and his partner, Judi Gentry, took the pictures and turned them into a calendar for his friends and family to mark his 80th birthday.
Bob Pearl ’54
Fonda Whanger Hawley ’62 is currently serving as an adjunct instructor at Pierpont Community and Technical College in Fairmont, W.Va. She taught for a number of years in the Marion County school system and has served as an adjunct faculty member at Fairmont State University since 1977. In 2009 she received Pierpont’s Rousseau-Wolfe Outstanding Adjunct Faculty Award.
Andrew Paterno ’70 has been named the new President of Huntington Bank in West Virginia. Paterno has worked in the insurance business for 30 years and currently serves on the Concord University Foundation Board. Huntington Bank is the fifth largest bank in West Virginia.
Dennis Sutton ’72 retired in May after 27 years as CEO of the Children’s Home Society of West Virginia. He was honored during the Children’s Home Society Founder’s Day celebration in May at the St. George Orthodox Cathedral in Charleston. Ann Wells ‘76 received the 2012 Mercer County Teacher of the Year award in April at a banquet honoring top teachers across Mercer County. Wells has been teaching in Mercer County for 36 years.
Judy Foster-Holland ’81 received the Jeff C. Britton Outstanding Faculty Advisor Award during the Annual WV State Key Club Convention held in Charleston, WV March 30 - April 1. She is the sponsor for the Princeton Senior High School Key Club which is composed of 46 members and is sponsored by the Princeton-Athens Kiwanis Club.
Judy Foster-Holland ’81 (in blue)
Jesse Lester ’84 was recently named the head boys basketball coach at PikeView High School, located in Mercer County. Lester has coached previously at Herndon High School, Baileysville High School and at Wyoming East High School, where he won two state championships in 2007 and 2008.
Katrina A. Street ’91 was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force on June 1, 2012. Katrina is a Cyberspace Operations officer and is currently serving as the Deputy Chief of the Air Force Materiel Command Commander’s Action Group, Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. She is responsible for assisting top leadership on issues affecting 82,000 personnel at 12 geographically separated centers managing $60 billion annually. She provides leadership with advice on strategic planning and policy development and communicates the Commander’s vision, mission, philosophy, and intent to the staffs of the Command Headquarters, Air Force, and the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
Katrina has been selected to assume command of the 30th Space Communications Squadron at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. in July. As the Commander, she will lead over 200 military, Department of Defense civilians and contractors in the operations and maintenance of voice and network support for over 6,000 customers and the Air Force’s largest inventory of space launch and test range communication equipment. Katrina A. Street 29
Class Notes Jeff Campbell ’96/’08 received the 2011 West Virginia Broadcasters Association Excellence In Broadcasting Best Radio Playby-Play Award for coverage of Greenbrier East High School football and basketball. He completed his 27th season with Radio Greenbrier WRON and is a social studies teacher at Eastern Greenbrier Middle School in Lewisburg, W.Va.
Ned Hess ’96 received the 2011-2012 Alderson-Broaddus College Physician Assistant Studies Program Thomas Chang, M.D., Preceptor of the Year Award. Hess was honored in April at a luncheon at the Monongahela Valley Association of Health Centers Shinnston Medical Center, where he currently works.
Todd Jamrose ‘97 received his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from The West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in May 2012. Jamie Lusk ’98 is the head coach for the Westside High School girls’ basketball team. His team won the 2012 Class AA West Virginia State basketball title by defeating Scott High School 49-46. Momchil Georgiev ’00 is a Senior Software Engineer for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) in Washington, D.C. Momchil has a Master of Science in Computer Science from The Johns Hopkins University. Megan Grose ’00 recently received her Master of Science degree from Marshall University.
Lori Midkiff ’00 is currently employed as the Executive Secretary to the President at New River Community and Technical College. Lori also recently graduated from the Paralegal Program at George Washington University. Eric Priddy ’00 has his own freelance photography business, Eric Priddy Photography, in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.
Valerie Curtis ’03 has been named President of the Junior League of Parkersburg. The organization is committed to promoting voluntarism and to improving the community through effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Curtis has served the League previously as the President-Elect, Treasurer, and Communications Officer and as the chairperson of committees such as Everything but the Entrée and the Preservation of the Cook House. She is the Safety Coordinator and Employee Supervisor for Personnel Temporary Services in Parkersburg, W.Va. An active community volunteer, Curtis participates in a wide range of groups including Wood County Wellness Coalition, Wood County Rotary Club, Young Emerging Leaders of the Mid Ohio Valley, United Way Alliance of the Mid Ohio Valley and many others. She was recognized as the 2011 Chamber Volunteer of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce of the Mid Ohio Valley. Larry DeMasi ’04 is currently serving as a Senior Business Analyst at Advantage Sales and Marketing. Previously, Larry was a Retail Sales Merchandiser and a Retail Supervisor for ASM.
Tara Shleser ’04 has been selected as one of 27 students in Marshall University’s Inaugural Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Students began coursework in the three year program in May. Natalie Luppold ’05 was recently promoted to a supervisor position at Suttle & Stalnaker, a public accounting firm in Charleston, W.Va. She has been working there as an auditor since 2006. Natalie is a licensed CPA and received her Master of Professional Accountancy degree from WVU in 2006. She is also currently serving as a board member/ treasurer for Susan G. Komen WV Affiliate. Jarrod O’Dell ’05 is currently serving as a Technology Integration Specialist for Mercer County Schools.
Dimitar Pekyov ’06 is the Inventory Reduction Project Manager at Rolls-Royce North America. After graduating from Concord, Dimitar received his MBA from The Ohio State University Max M. Fisher College of Business. Heather Rice ’07 was named Superintendent of Pinnacle Rock State Park in March 2012. Rice is currently one of four women park superintendents in the state of West Virginia. Niya Apostolova ’08 is the VP & Marketing Director at FlyStart Media located in Bulgaria.
Lindsay Cochran Bartram ’08 received her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from The West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in May 2012.
30
Class Notes Jamie Yahya Blankenship ’08 received her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from The West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in May 2012. Jared Fontaine ’08 was recently added to the staff of Instructors at West Virginia Business College in Wheeling, W.Va.
Nicole Goddard ’08 received her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from The West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in May 2012. Daniel Puckett ’08 recently received his Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Appalachian School of Pharmacy.
Michael Smutko ‘08 graduated from Pikeville College School of Osteopathic Medicine in Kentucky with his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree.
John Meadows ’10 is working on a documentary on the Charleston (W.Va.) Distance Run entitled “Capital Punishment: The Mountain State’s 15-Miler.” Filming of the documentary began this summer and will conclude with the race’s 40th running on Labor Day weekend. It will cover the race’s history and will follow three runners as they train for and perform in the race. Meadows is currently working on his master’s degree in electronic media at WV State University.
Tyler Webb ’10 recently won the TBF Co-Angler National Championship on Bull Shoals Lake in Flippin, Ark. It was his first win and third career top 10 finish. The win qualified Webb to represent West Virginia as a co-angler at the BFL All-American tournament in May on the Potomac River in Maryland. He will also compete in the Forest L. Wood Cup in August on Lake Lanier in Georgia. Webb played baseball while at Concord and is currently one of the assistant baseball coaches at Liberty High School in Raleigh County. Danielle Brinkley ’11 has been selected as one of 27 students in Marshall University’s Inaugural Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Students began coursework in the three year program in May.
Andreas Maerki ’11 is employed as a Hedge Fund Risk Analyst at Societe Generale Corporate and Investment Banking in NYC.
Anniversary
Gordon Harvey ’62 and his wife Thelma ’59 celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in February 2012. The Harvey’s have two children and six grandchildren and live in Annapolis, Md.
Births
Tom Bone ’76 and Chris Bone ’77 are grandparents of a little girl, Genevieve Eleanor Steele, born on May 5, 2012 in Rockville, Md. Genevieve’s mother is Erin Bone Steele, who appeared in many Concord Theatre productions as a high school student and is one of the founders of the Appalachian Shakespeare Project which stages a production on the Concord campus each summer.
Angela Frye Keaton ’99 and her husband Kevin welcomed a baby girl, Emma Mae, on April 24, 2012. Emma weighed 8 lbs. 7 oz. and was 21 ½ inches long. Gary Williams ’02 and Laura Cox Williams ’01 welcomed a son, Isaac Gary, on May 8, 2012 at 10:18 p.m. He was 20.5 inches long and weighed 7 lbs. Isaac joins big sisters Leah, 5 and Lila, 3. Laura practices with TLC Dental Associates in Bluefield, Princeton and Welch and Gary teaches science at Graham High School in Bluefield, Va.
Daniel Dowdy ’06 and wife Julie (Bolyard) Dowdy (Fairmont State ’08) welcomed a daughter, Hannah Abigail, on June 24. Hannah weighed 6 lbs. 5 oz. and was 20 inches long. The family resides in Grafton, W.Va.
Emma Mae Keaton
31
Karri Miller Hitt ’09 and husband Eric Hitt ’08 announce the birth of their first son, Dexter Michael Hitt, who was born on April 13, 2012.
Dexter Michael Hitt
Class Notes Obituaries Ira Southern ’48: March 27, 2012. Born in Mercer County, Southern was a World War II veteran, having hitchhiked to Roanoke, Va., to sign up with the U.S. Army Air Corps. He was stationed at Hickam Field in Hawaii when the Japanese attacked the adjacent Pearl Harbor Naval Base. Southern was a graduate of Concord College and earned a master’s degree in public health from the University of Michigan. He spent most of his career working in the public health field, spending several years in Saudi Arabia and then working for the Kroger Co. in Cincinnati. After spending five years with the National Institute of Mental Health, Southern returned to West Virginia and served on the Southern West Virginia Regional Health Council. He continued his public service in his home county as city manager of Princeton, later serving on city council and then as mayor. Southern and his son Shane formed Southern Communications Inc., in Beckley in 1976. He was inducted into the West Virginia Broadcasting Hall of Fame in 2007. In addition to his son, he is survived by two daughters: Karen Martin of Charlotte, N.C., and Kristin Wallace of Pearisburg, Va., as well as grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Billie Wallingford Boothe ’49: July 9, 2011. Originally from Princeton, Billie served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Billie graduated from Concord with an English degree and a minor in American History. He earned a master’s degree in English from WVU and his doctorate in English from Vanderbilt University. Throughout his career, he taught at several universities including the University of Puerto Rico, Texas A&M, University of Tennessee and Bethune-Cookman College. He began teaching at Kutztown University in Pennsylvania in 1966 and retired from there in 1986 as head of the English Department. Admittedly proud that he never drove or owned a vehicle, Billie’s preferred mode of transportation his entire life was walking. Billie is survived by a host of nieces and nephews; and special friends, Alan and Jennifer Trumbauer of Easton, Pa. Jack Lee Thompson ’55: June 16, 2012. He was born in Salt Sulphur Springs, W.Va. and was the son of the late Howard D. Thompson and Elsie Turner Thompson. He received his bachelor’s degree from Concord University and also attended the University of Tennessee. He had lived in the New River Valley area since 1959. He was employed as Claims Manager with Shenandoah Life Insurance Company for over 30 years, and as a driver for The Park Oak Grove for more than 20 years. He was a member of Grace Church where he served as a Deacon and was a member of the Executive Council of the Concord University Alumni Association. Jack was a longtime supporter of Concord and received the CUAA Alumnus of the Year award in 2001. Jack is survived by his wife of 57 years, Delores Ann Payne Thompson, two sons, three daughters, 10 grandchildren, two great grandchildren, numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
Lori Hatfield Murdock ’85: May 16, 2012. Lori was born in Beckley, W.Va. on June 28, 1964 to Larry and Jane Hatfield. Lori was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School in Beckley. She graduated from Concord College in the field of Elementary Education. She also graduated from the West Virginia College of Graduate Studies with an M.A. in the specialization of Learning Disabilities. Jack Lee Thompson She was employed by the Raleigh County Board of Education and taught at Bradley Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, Stoco Jr. High and Stratton Jr. High. Lori additionally was employed by the Yadkin County and Forsyth County Boards of Education in North Carolina. She taught at Yadkinville and Fall Creek Elementary schools in Yadkin County and at Oldtown Elementary and Walkertown Middle in Forsyth County. She taught for 23 years until she was disabled due to multiple sclerosis. She was survived by a daughter, Victoria “Tori” Jane Murdock and a brother, Philip Earle Hatfield both of Yadkinville, N.C.
Calling for Class Notes We want to hear from you! Send us your personal and professional accomplishments, news on marriages and family additions and updates on other noteworthy events in your life. Photographs are welcome as well.
Please email your news items to advancement@concord.edu or mail them to Concord University, Office of Advancement, P.O. Box 1000, Athens, WV 24712.
32
CU Athletics
ALUMNI Former Mountain Lions Tangle
In High School Baseball Tournament I As Tigers, Wildcats
t was Tigers against Wildcats in the Class AAA final of the 2012 West Virginia High School baseball tournament. And, for three former Mountain Lions, it was time to meet again on the diamond, this time as rival coaches. Josh Wilburn ’07, head coach for the Princeton Tigers; James Stehlin ’10, assistant coach for Princeton; and Drew McClanahan ’08, assistant coach for the Nitro Wildcats, battled it out in the championship game at Appalachian Power Park in Charleston, W.Va. on June 3.
“Playing for the baseball team prepared me to be a coach…being able to work under Coach Garrett.” Josh Wilburn ’07 Princeton, in its second appearance at the tournament since 1974, took home the trophy with a 7-4 victory. This marks Princeton’s first-ever baseball championship and is the first state title a Tiger team
Josh Wilburn ’07 with his team’s state championship trophy 33
CU Athletics has captured in more than three decades. (Princeton’s boys basketball team won the state championship in 1981.) Nitro is a familiar contestant at the annual playoffs. Out of the last five Class AAA tournaments, the Wildcats have played in four. The runnerup in 2009, Nitro won the state championship in 2008 and 2010. In the 2010 semifinals, the Wildcats knocked the Tigers out of contention for the crown. “It’s definitely exciting, an accomplishment within itself to make it to the state final four,” Wilburn, who has been head coach at Princeton since 2010, said prior to the 2012 tournament. “We wish each other luck.” Princeton beat Bridgeport in the semifinals 5-1. Nitro met Fairmont Senior and came out of the contest with a 10-8 win. “It’s a real point of pride for Concord alums to still be in competition with that level of success,” McClanahan said. McClanahan, a pitcher for the Mountain Lions, played from 20042007. He was team captain in 2007 and a student assistant during the 2008 season. Wilburn was a pitcher for the Mountain Lions for two years beginning in 2002. Following a shoulder injury, he took on the job of student assistant and worked with the team through 2007. “It gave me the resume booster to get into public school coaching,” he said. Stehlin began his stint with the Mountain Lions in 2006. He played second base and went on to serve as a student assistant. Wilburn graduated from Concord in December 2007 with a bachelor’s degree and later earned a master’s degree. McClanahan is a December 2008 Concord graduate and Stehlin earned degrees from CU in December 2010 and 2011. Now, the trio is busy coaching and teaching in the public school system. All three agree the atmosphere and expectations that are trademarks of
Mountain Lion baseball have carried from their student athlete days to their professional careers. Stehlin says it’s qualities like “showing up every day…hard work…the discipline instilled in us from Coach Garrett” that make a difference.
“It’s a real point of pride for Concord alums to still be in competition with that level of success.” Drew McClanahan ’08
Kevin Garrett, currently Concord’s athletic director, coached all three players when he served as the Mountain Lions head coach for baseball. “I think it’s a great testament to their work ethic, character, the same qualities shown as collegiate athletes have been taken and applied to the high school level,” he said. “The hard work has paid off, competing at such a high level.” “Playing for the baseball team prepared me to be a coach…being able to work under Coach Garrett,” Wilburn said. “Seeing his coaching style and how he handled the program filtered into my program along the way, the discipline Concord University instills in athletes and students and the discipline it takes to be a full-time teacher and coach.” They also came away from Concord with a winning mindset. “I played in two regional
Drew McClanahan ’08
James Stehlin ’10
tournaments, played in four conference tournaments, and was part of the team that broke the school record,” Stehlin said. The record was for most wins in a season (35). Stehlin was on board with CU baseball when Andrew Wright became head coach in May 2010. The Mountain Lions claimed the WVIAC Championship in 2011 and reached the third day of NCAA Atlantic Region tournament play.
34
CU Athletics
BASEBALL Morrisroe, Blevins Honored Concord’s Keith Morrisroe earned Honorable Mention All-America Honors from the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA). Morrisroe, shortstop for the Mountain Lions, along with CU outfielder Bret Blevins, also earned All-Atlantic Region honors. Both players are members of the Daktronics and the NCBWA squads, as voted on by the region’s Sports Information Directors. Morrisroe was named 1st Team All-Atlantic by the NCBWA and 2nd Team by Daktronics. Blevins was dubbed 2nd Team by Daktronics and
an Honorable Mention by the NCBWA. Morrisroe, CU’s captain, started all 53 games at shortstop and led the team’s regulars with a .385 batting average. He finished the regular season among the nation’s leaders in walks (43, 6th), on-base percentage (.547, 7th) and runs scored (56, 17th). He hit .426 with runners in scoring position and struck out only 15 times in 161 at-bats. He was an All-WVIAC 2nd Team honoree in 2012. The senior from Chantilly, Va. made Concord history in his final home game, when he played all nine positions in a 12-0 victory over Bluefield State on April 29. Blevins, a 1st Team All-WVIAC selection this year, posted a .368
batting average with five home runs and 47 runs batted in. He recorded a .566 slugging percentage, a .415 onbase percentage and 103 total bases. The sophomore from Owings, Md. hit .430 with runners in scoring position and .600 with the bases loaded. He was also a perfect 19-19 in stolen base attempts. Blevins was the WVIAC’s Player of the Week – and the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association Player of the Week – for March 26. Concord went 26-27 this season, including a 20-15 mark in conference play. The Mountain Lions won two of three games at the WVIAC Tournament, which ended May 13 in Johnstown, Pa.
SPORTS INFORMATION CU Athletics Welcomes Tyler McIntosh as Sports Information Director Tyler McIntosh has joined the Mountain Lion athletic department as Concord University’s new Sports Information Director. McIntosh, who will be responsible for publicizing CU’s 18 Division II athletic teams, started June 25. “I’m very excited to have Tyler as our new Sports Information Director,” Athletic Director Kevin Garrett said. “Not only am I excited, but the entire athletic staff is excited about the new things Tyler will bring to the department.” McIntosh comes to Concord from Slippery Rock University (Pa.), where he served as a Tyler McIntosh graduate assistant in SRU’s sports information department the past track & field programs. two academic years. He was the McIntosh’s work at Slippery Rock primary contact for Slippery Rock’s was rewarded when the American field hockey, volleyball, softball and Volleyball Coaches Association 35
recognized the SRU sports information department with the Berger Media Award for the Atlantic Region in 2011. Among the tasks that McIntosh took on at Slippery Rock, the most impressive were behind the scenes. Over the two-year stint, he took the lead on developing the archives of the official website, including organizing historical data and record books and compiling electronic statistical data from archived paper files. A native of Salineville, Ohio, McIntosh earned his bachelor’s degree in journalism from Kent State University in 2008 and his master’s degree in parks and resource management from Slippery Rock in 2012. “I’d like to thank Kevin Garrett and Dr. Aloia for the opportunity to join the Concord family,” McIntosh said.
CU Athletics
FOOTBALL 2012 Football Schedule
September 1
Lenoir-Rhyne
Home
September 8
Winston-Salem St.
Home
September 15
University of Charleston
Home
September 22
West Virginia State
Away
September 29
Shepherd
Away
October 6
Glenville State
October 13
Seton Hill
October 20
Liberty
Away
October 27
Fairmont State
Home
November 3
West Liberty
Home
November 10
West Virginia Wesleyan
Away
ING HOMECOM Away
SOFTBALL McDougall, Gleason Named AllWVIAC Concord placed two players on the 2012 All-WVIAC softball team, as voted on by the conference’s coaches. Freshman Lacey McDougall made the 2nd Team, while junior Becca Gleason received Honorable Mention accolades. Concord went 20-29 this year, their third straight 20-win season. On a team with only one senior, McDougall became a mainstay. The freshman from Chesapeake, Va. led Concord’s regulars in batting average (.390), hits (46), runs batted in (31), slugging percentage (.593), home runs
(3) and on base percentage (.433), and tied for the team lead with two triples. She also struck out just 11 times in 118 at bats. McDougall thrived in pressure situations, leading CU by hitting .368 with runners in scoring position, including going 5-7 with the bases loaded. The right hander also emerged as one of CU’s top pitchers, appearing in 21 games, 12 as a starter. She posted a 7-6 record with eight complete games in 80 innings of work. McDougall was 7th in the WVIAC in batting average. In the circle, she tied for 20th in the WVIAC in overall earned run average (3.94) and was
18th in ERA in conference games (3.71). Gleason moved from first base to catcher this season and hit .333. She led Concord with 24 runs scored, tied for the team lead in at bats (135) and was second in total bases (58) and hits (45), just one behind McDougall. The junior from La Plata, Md. tied for 26th in the WVIAC in batting average and was second in runners picked off (3). Concord closed out the season with a three-game winning streak and loses only graduating senior Emily Gallagher from this year’s team. 36
CU Athletics
ATHLETICS Annual Golf Outing Raises Funds for CU Athletics
Dr. Brad Lane ’02
The Concord University athletic department braved the rain and successfully hosted its annual golf outing, presented by Appalachian Eye Care, at the Fountain Springs Golf Course in Peterstown, W.Va. on Friday, July 13. The event raised $7,000 for Concord athletics. The outing featured 14 teams competing in a scramble, best-ball format. William Flanigan, Steve McAnelly and Stark Coleman, who were sponsored by the law firm Sanders, Austin, Flanigan & Flanigan, took home top honors after finishing with the lowest team score of the day. Concord University thanks all of the participants and sponsors that took part in this year’s event. To view a photo gallery of the golf outing visit: http://www. cumountainlions.com/photo_ gallery.aspx?gallery=2
(Left to right) Bruce Hansen; Dr. Brad Lane, Appalachian Eye Care; Jonathan Blackburn; Dr. Chris Hansen, Appalachian Eye Care
(Above, left to right) Jeff Jefferson, Assistant Baseball Coach; Steve Cox, Retired Basketball Coach; Kevin Garrett, Athletic Director; Kent McBride ‘06, Head Basketball Coach (Left) Dr. Angie Edwards, Professor of Physical Education, and Anita Conner, Academic Program Assistant (Right) Mike Cox, Head Track and Cross Country Coach
Concord Athletics Launches SMS Service The Concord University Athletic Department has launched a free text messaging service designed to provide fans with updated scores, events, athletic news and any last minute venue changes or start times for the upcoming 2012-13 season. Fans can now sign up for Concord’s Short Message Service (SMS) to stay up to date on the latest happenings in the world of Concord athletics via text message. An Internet connection is no
longer necessary to stay engaged with Mountain Lion sports. To enroll in the SMS program go to http://cumountainlions.com/ news/2012/7/20/gen_0720120419. aspx and visit the link (SMS Registration) near the top of the page. Or you can visit the Mountain Lions webpage at http://www. cumountainlions.com/ and click on the cell phone icon located on the far right of Concord’s scoreboard feature. From there, all you have to do is signup, create a login and tell the service the sports for which you’d like
to receive updates. Do you want to know anytime there is a score update for any sport, or story posted on cumountainlions. com? Check the “All Concord Athletic Department Updates” box. Only want score updates for men’s soccer? There’s an option for that as well.
Although Concord Athletics provides the service without a fee, standard text messaging rates may apply depending upon your service plan.
Athletics section compiled with assistance from CU Sports Information Director Tyler McIntosh 37
CU Athletics
GOLF CU Golfers Named to PING AllRegion Team Two Concord University golfers were named to the 2012 Division II PING All-Atlantic Region team as announced by the Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA). Juniors Matt Morgan and Evan Muscari represented the Mountain Lions on the All-Atlantic Region team after stellar seasons in 2011-12. Muscari, a first team All-West Virginia Intercollegiate Conference selection, produced six top-20 performances this season. His top performance was a third-place showing (-4) at the WVIAC Central Regional Tournament. Muscari also placed 18th at the NCAA Division II Atlantic Regional Championships. Morgan, who also earned all-
conference honors in 201112, took second place at the WVIAC Southern Regional Tournament after a finish of +7. The Bluefield, Va. native registered six top-20 performances including three top-10 efforts. For the year, the duo helped lead Concord to six top-five team finishes as well as appearances in Matt Morgan (left) and Evan Muscari both the NCAA Atlantic Regional and NCAA PING honored a total of 107 players National Championships, in Division II across eight regions where Concord finished 19th in the - East, Atlantic, Southeast, South, nation. In 2012-13, Concord will be looking Midwest, South Central, Central and West – for their efforts during the to earn its seventh consecutive trip to the NCAA Atlantic Regionals as well as 2011-12 season. its fourth straight appearance at the NCAA National Championships.
Find Our Magazines
On the Web
Look for archived copies of the Concord University Alumni Magazine on CU’s website at: http://www.concord.edu/ advancement/publications
38
Natural Sciences Announces STEM Awards
T
he Division of Natural Sciences announces the first summer research awards from the STEM Faculty-Student Research Program funded by the West Virginia Research Trust Fund (the Governors “Bucks for Brains” program). The program will support four to six summer research projects per year through at least summer 2014. Faculty PI’s will have the opportunity to apply for grantsin-aid as seed money to support publishable research that involves at least one undergraduate student. Specifically, the program is designed to enhance student achievement and support faculty development. In the area of student achievement the program will increase retention and graduation rates among STEM majors; promote higher-order learning through research; and, increase admissions to STEM graduate programs. The program will support faculty development by providing small summer grants to support new
For summer 2012, the following awards are announced: • Dr. Tim Corrigan (Physics) with one undergraduate student; “Enhancement of quantum dot fluorescence,” nanotechnology research applied to biochemistry. • Dr. Darrell Crick (Chemistry) with one undergraduate student; “Antiproliferative compounds from extremophilic freshwater algae and cynaobacteria,” natural products research with
or ongoing research; encouraging presentation/publication of research results with students; and, providing seed money to obtain research results that may lead to future external funding to extend capacity for scientific equipment and research. The program also aims to enhance the research atmosphere in the
applications to drug discovery for treatment of cancer and infectious diseases. • Dr. Joseph L. Allen (Geology) with one undergraduate student; “Localization of seismogenic rupture in lamprophyre dikes,” geological research applied to earthquake physics. • Dr. Stephen C. Kuehn (Geology) with one undergraduate student; “Geochemistry of mafic dikes associated with shear zones,” geochemical research.
Division of Natural Sciences by encouraging submission of proposals for larger projects with potential for external funding, and by providing a STEM-wide capacity for research, and a more vibrant faculty-student research community.
Concord Awarded
Science Grants Dr. Darrell Crick, associate professor of chemistry and chairman of the Department of Physical Sciences at Concord University, received a $17,000 equipment award for “Microscale Isolation of Bioactive Natural Products” from the West Virginia IDeA Network for Biomedical Research Excellence. The award was used to purchase a centrifugal evaporator and an upgrade for a high performance liquid chromatograph. Both instruments 39
are used by undergraduate students in Dr. Crick’s natural-product-based drug discovery research in Concord’s chemistry program. Dr. Timothy Corrigan, assistant professor of physics, won two awards from the Division of Science and Research at the WV Higher Education Policy Commission that will support ongoing research in materials science. The first award, “Atomic Force Microscope for Undergraduate Teaching and Research,” provided $20,000 to
acquire new, state-of-the-art scientific equipment for student use in introductory and advanced physics courses at Concord. The second award, “Multilayer Infrared Absorber for Energy Harvesting,” provides $5000 to examine the feasibility of developing new materials that could be used to convert waste heat from engines or factories into usable energy.
A picturesque venue for your wedding, reunion or special event.
For more information contact the Concord University Office of Special Events.
Wilkes Family Chapel Seating capacity: 120
John & Lucia Pais Family Fellowship Hall Seating capacity: 120
Seminar Room Seating capacity: 20 1-304-384-6286 cuevents@concord.edu
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thank you
Please Note: In the Spring 2012 issue of the Alumni Magazine Mr. William J. Sealey, Class of 1977, was inadvertently left off of the 2011 Alumni Donor Honor Roll. Mr. Sealey was a member of the Maroon & Gray Club in 2011. The Alumni Office apologizes for this omission.
CU Partners With Raleigh County Solid Waste Authority for
Recycling Program On Beckley Campus C
oncord University is partnering with the Raleigh County Solid Waste Authority (RCSWA) on a comprehensive recycling program that includes placement of a recycling bin at the Erma Byrd Higher Education Center in Beaver, W.Va. Sherri Hunter, director of education for the RCSWA, presented local schools with thousands of dollars earned through participation in the School Recycling Program at a ceremony held Wednesday, May 23 at the Recycling Center in Beckley. Hunter presented Concord with an earth flag to commemorate announcement of the University’s partnership with the RCSWA and
help promote its new program at the Higher Education Center. “Concord is the first university partner with the RCSWA to have a recycling bin and a recycling education program,” Hunter said. “Concord students have toured the Recycling Center in previous semesters, but the tour will now be only one part of the comprehensive educational initiative and ongoing recycling drive.” Concord University President Gregory Aloia said, “Our goal is to continue educating students about the benefits of recycling. This program is consistent with the recycling program already underway on our Athens
Championship Football Teams
Celebrating Anniversaries The 2012 football season marks the 50th anniversary of Concord winning its first ever football conference championship in 1962. This is also the 25th anniversary of the 1987 team’s conference championship. Both Mountain Lion squads will be honored during CU’s Homecoming game on Oct. 6. We are hoping to have as many members of the 1962 team and the 1987 team at the game as possible. A mailing has gone out to team members with the details. If you were part of either team and did not get a letter or have questions about what is being planned, please contact the Alumni Office at alumni@concord.edu or 304-384-5348. 41
campus. We hope our partnership with the Raleigh County Solid Waste Authority will inspire other colleges and universities.” Dr. Jennifer Robinette, Concord’s director of satellite campuses, said, “We have a recycling facility here in Raleigh County that is one-of-a-kind in the state of West Virginia. I hope everyone has an opportunity to come see it for themselves. We are proud to partner with the RCSWA to place a bin where Concord’s Beckley office and classes are located and make recycling more convenient for those of us at the Higher Education Center than ever before.”
We have a for someone you know.
Dear Alumni and Friends, We have a special place for someone you know. You are in a unique position, as an alumnus or friend of Concord University, to recommend prospective students to the University. The special person you know may currently be in high school or in the workforce…and searching for the perfect fit for college. Please submit the name of your special person and we will follow up to see if we can meet his or her academic needs. We look forward to hearing from you and meeting someone who is special to you!
Submit this form in the envelope provided. The information you supply below is all that’s required and you don’t have to complete the form on the envelope. Or, you may call 1-888-384-5249 or email alumni@concord.edu to make your referral. (Please mention that you are making an alumni student referral when you call.)
Student’s Name:______________________________
Address:_ _____________________________________
________________________________________________ Phone: ________________________________________
Kindest regards,
Email: _________________________________________
Sarah Turner Director of Alumni Affairs
________________________________________________
Legacy Scholarship is Now Available We are proud to announce the availability of the Concord University Legacy Scholarship.
Did you graduate from either Concord College or Concord University? Then, your son or daughter will be eligible to apply for the Concord University Legacy Scholarship. The scholarship is non-renewable and is contingent upon available funds. Encourage your son or daughter to apply early! Here are the criteria. The successful recipient must: • be either a first-time freshman or student who transfers from another institution, • be a dependent of either a Concord College or Concord University graduate, • have a minimum 3.0 high school GPA and 18 on the ACT or 870 (verbal and mathematics score only) on the SAT, and completed the admissions application by April 15, 2013.
The Legacy Scholarship is funded, in part, by the sale of bricks by the Concord University Alumni Association. The bricks are installed in the sidewalk under the breezeway between the J. Frank Marsh Library and Marsh Hall.
Name of high school and graduation date:
Parents' Names: _____________________________
________________________________________________ Are Parents Alumni? ________
If current college student, name of institution: ________________________________________________ Your Name: ___________________________________ Class Year: ____________________
Address: ______________________________________
________________________________________________
Email: _________________________________________ Thank you for your recommendation!
International Programs spotlighted on the web Check out the web page for Concord University’s International Programs. The site includes information on International Admissions, English as a Second Language, the International Center and more. Go to: http://www.concord.edu/international 42
Wednesday, October 3
• Homecoming Picnic 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Thursday, October 4
• Homecoming Parade followed by Bonfire in the Valley - 6:00 pm
Friday, October 5
• Career Symposium • Alumni Reception - 5:00 pm • Alumni Dinner - 6:00 pm • Homecoming Lip Sync at the Leslie R. & Ruby Webb Carter Center Gym - 8:00 pm
Saturday, October 6
• Alumni Brunch - 10:30 am to Noon • Special Lion’s Den Tailgate - 1:00 pm - Invited guests & CUAA members only! • 1962 & 1987 Football Teams Gathering - Callaghan Stadium • Kickoff at 2:00 pm For additional info please visit www.concord.edu/advancement/homecoming