FISK Focus An Electronic Publication for Alumni and Friends
Volume I, Issue 3
From President Hazel Reid O’Leary ’59
Inside this issue: From the President
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STUDENT ENGAGEMENT Martin Luther King Jr. Convocation Planning Grant Advances Recruitment
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ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE Fisk Facts New Members of the Fisk Family Bass, Berry & Sims Annual Luncheon Corporate Spotlight
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ALUMNI RELATIONS Local Highlights G.A.A.F.U. Far West Regional Conference President to Speak in VA on February 20 G..A.A.F.U. Board Reunion 2011 Schedule Alumni Achievement Award Criteria Most Powerful Women
January 2011
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ADVANCEMENT & FUND RAISING From the Vice President 14 Annual Fund Monthly 15 Cumulative Report Coming Events 16
Cleveland Fisk Club Officers with Fisk President Hazel O’Leary ’59 during her December Visit (L. to R.): Treasurer, Dr. Roderick Adams ’72; Corresponding Secretary, Nina Dailey ’52; President O’Leary; Cleveland Fisk Club President, Dr. James Hovell ’61; Recording Secretary, Melonee Adalikwu ’82; and Vice President, Robert K. Wiley ’86
Each new semester reminds us to sharpen the focus to serve Fisk’s students who demonstrate the potential and desire to be scholars and leaders with a global perspective. Thanks to your support, Fisk continues its legacy of deepening students’ intellectual capability and empowering each to hone unique talents to meet the needs of society. Students such as Melinda Aguilera, Preston Harris, Jr. and Timothy Walker returned earlier this month from the Salzburg Global Seminar in Salzburg, Austria. Our students report that their seminar experience helped broaden their global perspectives as they analyzed and discussed international issues with other attendees whom they would likely not have met. This is an example of opportunities open to students who pursue the liberal arts education that Fisk provides. During this month’s Faculty Assembly meeting, I witnessed the sharpened focus in an excellent miniworkshop conducted by Dr. Sheila Peters, Fisk’s Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) Director. Implementing the QEP is a Southern Association of Colleges and Schools’ Commission of Colleges (SACSCOC) accreditation requirement, which must be met in 2014. Fisk selected Critical Thinking Across The Curriculum as its QEP. Our goal for our students is that they develop the discipline of intellectual inquiry when confronted with new experiences. This will enable each student to test theses presented and determine the validity of them. The benefit to our students will be an enhanced capacity to examine the content of a point of view or assertion of truth and reach independent conclusions. This is not a new approach for the Fisk learning community. In driving critical thinking throughout the curriculum, our goal is to ensure more sophisticated analyses at each level of academic achievement. The faculty is training to approach each level of coursework as facilitators, challenging our students to craft solutions for problems not previously encountered. As a participant in this mini-workshop, I witnessed the faculty’s approach to challenging our students, not as the final authority, but rather as colleagues capable of examining varied points of view. Finally, I invite you to support Fisk with a donation. Please consider joining the more than 400 generous alumni and friends who made gifts in December to support our students. Thank you, in advance, for making a contribution today toward our March 2011 goal to raise $3.1 million. We must meet this goal to demonstrate to SACSCOC that Fisk is making significant fundraising progress this fiscal year. If you have not sent a gift, I urge you to do so now. In addition, Fisk needs donors who make consistent gifts. Please consider making monthly or quarterly deductions from your bank account or credit card to benefit Fisk. I am confident that with your assistance Fisk will continue to produce empowered graduates able to solve the great challenges of our time. Thank you for your support and advocacy of Fisk University where we are cultivating scholars and leaders, one by one.
Have you sent a gift today? Give online at www.fisk.edu OR phone (615) 329-8710 OR email supportfisk@fisk.edu.
STUDENT ENGAGEMENT
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Civil Rights Activist and Author, Myrlie Evers-Williams, Delivers Keynote Address for Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Convocation Photo Credits: Sam Latham
Civil rights activist, author and former NAACP chair Myrlie Evers-Williams delivered the convocation address at the University’s commemoration of the legacy and contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Thursday, January 13th at 10 a.m. in the Fisk Memorial Chapel. Evers-Williams encouraged the audience of students, alumni and guests to continue the fight against racism. She recalled several events of the civil rights movement and compared the recent Tucson, Arizona shooting to those racially motivated occurrences. “I saw, as they described everything that happened that Saturday in Tucson, what happened to my family and myself that night that Medgar drove home and the shot rang out," EversWilliams said. "The memories are still there, my friends." She went on to state that the assassinations of civil rights activists spurred public opinion against segregation. Evers-Williams indicated that the Tucson shooting might serve the same purpose for the nation's current political climate and dialogue, which she described as “angry and filled with hatred.” In 1970 and 1971, Evers-Williams ran for Congress and helped to establish the National Women’s Political Caucus. In 1995, Evers-Williams became the first woman elected as chair of the Board of the NAACP. As the NAACP’s top official, Evers-Williams led efforts to restore the organization’s fiscal stability. Rather than seeking a second term, she founded the Medgar Evers Institute in Jackson, Mississippi to impact and train youth in effecting positive change through civic engagement. In 1996, Evers-Williams served as consultant for the film, “Ghosts of Mississippi” and in 1999, she wrote her autobiography, “Watch Me Fly.” She is also the author of “For Us, The Living,” which recounts her courtship and marriage to Medgar Evers and the couple’s role as central figures of the Civil Rights Movement.
Audience Sings the Fisk Alma Mater
Civil Rights Activist, Author and Former Chair of the NAACP, Mrs. Myrlie Evers-Williams, at the Podium in the Fisk Memorial Chapel
Fisk Professor Emeritus Matthew Kennedy Leads the Singing of the Alma Mater
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STUDENT ENGAGEMENT
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PLANNING GRANT ADVANCES STUDENT RECRUITMENT Under the leadership of Vice President Jason Meriwether, Office of Student Engagement, Fisk is advancing its enrollment management operations. With the support of a $100,000 planning grant from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, Dean Keith Chandler, in his capacity as project director, is implementing new elements of enrollment management’s strategic plan to build enrollment to 800 students by Fall 2012.
Second Generation Fiskite, Matthew Owens, Studies in the Library
The grant enables the University to use technology and streamline the recruitment and admission processes using Hobson’s constituent management system and Virtual Advisor component, to design and develop a University-wide integrated marketing communications plan, and to formalize procedures and practices that assist admitted students with the identification and award of scholarship support. These strategies will also impact the University’s retention efforts. The Hobsons’ system will enable staff to provide prospective students immediate feedback to their queries, and to send them customized e-brochures.
Alumni will play a vital role through more involvement in the recruitment of new students. To equip alumni to recruit the 21st century student, training sessions will be offered on campus, at local Fisk club meetings, and at the General Alumni Association’s regional conferences and biennial convention. Training will include teaching alumni how to facilitate financial aid workshops where actual forms and applications are completed and how to implement appropriate follow-up with the prospective students. This area was identified as a crucial one for new students, especially first-generation college students who lack familiarity with the processes of budgeting and securing financial aid. It has been found that both prospective students and their parents often require extensive financial aid education and assistance, which trained alumni would be able to provide. During the planning grant, Fisk will name a task force of faculty, staff, alumni and students to: (1) define or identify the financial aid problem areas, with an emphasis on the first-generation college student and his/her parents, (2) identify appropriate procedures and practices to eradicate the problem areas, (3) distinguish resources necessary to ensure that the formal procedures and practices are executed and make the process more user friendly, and (4) formulate strategies to generate new Fisk scholarship resources. At the end of the planning grant, several outcomes will have been attained. These include the implementation of a significantly enhanced, streamlined customer-centered recruitment and admission processing system, including the ability Engaged Students in Seminar Taught by Dr. Reavis Mitchell to interface and manage prospective students from point of inquiry to enrollment; development of a comprehensive University-wide integrated marketing and communications plan; and execution of a website that is engaging, easy to navigate and provides prospective students with the most desired information. Most importantly, enrollment goals for new and continuing students will be attained.
Have you sent a gift today? Give online at www.fisk.edu OR phone (615) 329-8710 OR email supportfisk@fisk.edu.
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
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FISK FACTS The U.S. News & World Report’s 2011 list of the “Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities” ranks Fisk #122 in the elite Tier 1 group of 246 institutions, one of only three Historically Black Colleges and Universities included. U.S. News & World Report’s 2011 rankings list Fisk among the top 40 national liberal arts institutions that offer the best value for the cost and quality of their academic programs. The U.S. News & World Report’s 2011 list of the “Best Historically Black Colleges and Universities” ranks Fisk #7. For the 19th consecutive year, the Princeton Review included Fisk on its 2011 list of “The Best 373 Colleges” in the nation and on its list of “The Best Southeastern Colleges”. In the latest Washington Monthly rankings on research, Fisk ranks #4 among the 252 liberal arts institutions in the nation that were ranked, #1 among ranked liberal arts institutions in the South, and #1 among the ranked liberal arts institutions in Tennessee. The latest Washington Monthly ranks Fisk in the 93rd percentile among liberal arts colleges in the nation. For the past twelve years, Money Magazine has included Fisk on its list of “100 Best College Buys.” The most recent National Science Foundation study reveals that Fisk alumni earned more doctorate degrees in the natural sciences than African-American graduates from any other college or university in the nation.1 Fisk ranks in the 77th percentile of all institutions in the United States receiving federal science and engineering research funds. 2 Fisk is the number one producer of African Americans who obtain their master’s degrees in physics. 3 Fisk ranks among the top 50 U.S. institutions whose graduates earn Ph.D. degrees in science and engineering. 4 The maximum numbers of allowable students of Fisk’s 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 graduating classes were inducted into The Phi Beta Kappa Society, the nation’s oldest and most prestigious academic honor society. Fisk is ranked first among moderately selective colleges in graduating low-income students. Fisk has an annual economic impact of $42 million on the Metropolitan Nashville community.5 Approximately 40 percent of Fisk’s graduates enroll directly in graduate or professional schools following attainment of their baccalaureate degrees. _______________________ National Science Foundation, Fisk Institutional Profile, 2007 National Science Foundation, Fisk Institutional Profile, 2007 3 National Science Foundation, 2007 4 National Science Foundation, 2007 5 United Negro College Fund, 2008 1 2
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ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Dr. Michael J. Self, Vice President for Institutional Assessment and Research, Joins Fisk Family The Fisk family welcomes Dr. Michael J. Self who is the vice president for institutional assessment and research. Previously, he served as director of institutional effectiveness and planning at Baton Rouge Community College where he directed and oversaw implementation of the college’s master, strategic and institutional effectiveness plans. He also coordinated program reviews for academic and nonacademic departments, and designed and implemented research and evaluation studies for SACS and professional program accreditations. Recommended for appointment by a search committee comprised of faculty and administrative personnel, Dr. Self’s selection has already proved to be a wise choice. His extensive expertise with Banner software enabled him to diagnose some of Fisk’s most pressing issues and to resolve them. Dr. Self’s academic experiences include teaching mathematics and statistics at Baton Rouge Community College, Southern University and A & M College, and Louisiana State University. Prior to entering higher education in 2001, he taught mathematics and coached athletics at the secondary level for five years in Baton Rouge. Dr. Self earned his B.S. in pure mathematics from Louisiana State University, and his M.S. in pure mathematics and Ph.D. in mathematics education from Southern University and A & M College. He also completed master’s level coursework in applied statistics at Louisiana State University.
Head Coaches Named Sarah Grams has been named head volleyball coach. A graduate of Ashford University where she earned her baccalaureate degree in education, Coach Grams brings thirteen years of coaching experience to Fisk. She has established a reputation for taking programs in their infancy and building them into state contenders. Most recently, Coach Grams developed Brentwood, Tennessee’s Ravenwood High School’s team into one of the top four programs in the state’s toughest district. In 2007, she was named “District Coach of the Year” and also received the Tennessee Athletic Coaches Association’s “Top Coach” award. In addition, Coach Grams has served as a Special Olympics coordinator and coach, and taught special education at the high school level.
Fiskite Derek S. Watkins is the head basketball coach. For the past twelve years, he has coached at area public and private high schools and for four years, served as assistant basketball coach at Fisk. Since 2000, Coach Watkins has operated Music City Pro-Am, the only college/pro summer league in Middle Tennessee. A businessman by education and profession, Coach Watkins has served as a licensed assistant branch manager for AmSouth Bank and SunTrust Bank. Also, he has taught business, computer, and career management classes for Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools. Coach Watkins earned his B.S. in business administration from Fisk in 1994.
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ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
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Bass, Berry & Sims Hosts Annual “Salute to African American Executives and Emerging Leaders” Luncheon Photo Credits: Bass, Berry & Sims and Liban Ahmed ’11
On January 13th, during the firm’s annual “Salute to African American Executives and Emerging Leaders” luncheon, Bass, Berry & Sims announced that Fiskite Wendy M. Warren ’99, had made partner. Attorney Warren is a member of the firm’s Diversity and Professional Development Committees. Her practice focuses on the areas of bankruptcy and securities and commercial litigation. Attorney Warren has experience conducting internal investigations and regulatory audits for the New York Stock Exchange, litigating complex fraudulent conveyance actions, representing healthcare entities in billing disputes, and representing broker -dealers in FINRA arbitration. In addition, she has extensive experience conducting foreclosure sales for bank clients. Prior to joining the firm, Attorney Warren clerked for the Honorable C. Ray Mullins, United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Georgia. She is licensed to practice law in Tennessee and Georgia, and is a Rule 31 Listed General Civil Mediator. She is active in the community via her work with Big Brother Big Sister of Middle Tennessee and service on the Steering Committee of YMCA Black Achievers. Attorney Warren earned her J.D. degree from the University of Texas School of Law. The Bass, Berry & Sims Scholars at Fisk University exemplify the corporate relationship that the firm has with the University and demonstrate the firm’s tangible support of Fisk students. Since establishment of the program in 2008, two students who aspire to become attorneys are provided $2,500 scholarships in their junior and/or senior years. Internships are also provided to the Scholars. The 2009-2011 Scholars were featured prominently during the luncheon. They are Liban Ahmed, senior, 2009-2010 Scholar; Carta Robinson, senior, 2009-2011 Scholar; and Timothy Walker, junior, 2010-2011 Scholar.
(L. to R.) John Lewis, Senior Managing Litigation Counsel, Coca-Cola Company & Keynote Speaker; Karen Neal of Bass, Berry & Sims; and Timothy Walker ’12, 2010-2011 Scholar (L. to R.) Liban Ahmed, senior, 2009-2010 Scholar; Carta Robinson, senior, 2009-2011 Scholar; and Timothy Walker, junior, 2010-2011 Scholar
Have you sent a gift today? Give online at www.fisk.edu OR phone (615) 329-8710 OR email supportfisk@fisk.edu.
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
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Corporate Partner Spotlight: Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. The successful cultivation of long-term, engaged, and mutually beneficial relationships with the corporate community is a critical component of the Office of Institutional Advancement’s strategic plan. Corporate partnerships are often comprehensive, involving multiple departments, focus areas, academic disciplines and strategic objectives. Quite as varied are the initiating factors by which these relationships begin. Regardless of the origin, the results of an engaged partnership and corporate investment are evidenced in the academic achievements, leadership and global impact of Fisk students, and the attainment of corporate objectives by the partner. One of Fisk’s loyal corporate partners is Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. Just as Cracker Barrel remains a consistent comfort to Fiskthey Club also president Antonio Meeks ’__and many hungryNashville travelers, provide comfort to Fisk students Stephenie financial Smith ’01 support. catch their breaths after running. through sustainable
2010-2011 Cracker Barrel Scholars (L. to R.) Shayla Nolen, Clarissa Stark, and Megan Nelson
Cracker Barrel’s engagement begins at the top with Michael Woodhouse, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc., who has served on the Fisk University Board of Trustees since 2006. Though his company supported the University prior to him becoming a Trustee, it has significantly grown during his tenure. Trustee Woodhouse’s involvement in the governance of Fisk ranges from his active participation in the visionary leadership to the strategic decision making process. He supplements these with his advocacy, financial commitment and participation in many events and activities that benefit Fisk and our students. Taking the lead from Trustee Woodhouse, Norm Hill, President of the Cracker Barrel Foundation and Paul Seal, Director of Diversity and Outreach continue the collaborative effort through the provision of their guidance, leadership and involvement. Cracker Barrel’s investment in Fisk has transformed from early support for student scholarships to include a multi-faceted engagement centered around community outreach and significant scholarship support. The Cracker Barrel Scholars program began in 2006, when the first freshmen students were selected for tuition support. Today, three firsttime freshman students are supported with full tuition scholarships funded solely by Cracker Barrel. Recipients may apply for two additional years of support. In addition to financial assistance, the students are provided with opportunities to meet with Cracker Barrel management at corporate headquarters and to participate in joint civic engagement projects with company employees. This year’s Cracker Barrel Scholars are Megan Nelson, Shayla Nolen and Clarissa Stark. Cracker Barrel works with Fisk’s Office of Career Services to provide meaningful internship models for both the students and the company. Through the partnership, Cracker Barrel exposes Fisk students to the corporate values, culture and standards of a hospitality industry leader, and perhaps get a jump on recruiting the best and brightest. Over the years, the company has allocated a portion of their annual financial support for the Cracker Barrel Global and Community Engagement Lecture Series at Fisk University. The series give the Fisk Family and Greater Nashville community the opportunity to learn from, and interact with, national and regional leaders who are at the forefront of global and community issues. With Cracker Barrel’s support, Fisk is able to offer opportunities outside the classroom that engage and stretch students’ critical thinking skills, enhance their understanding of national and international affairs, promote their appreciation for the arts, and equip them to be ethical leaders in today’s global society. Such experiences are indispensable to a Fisk education. Corporate partners like Cracker Barrel help to facilitate our goal of cultivating scholars and leaders, one by one. Fisk’s ability to thrive is increased with each and every corporate partner. Cracker Barrel manifests corporate engagement through their comprehensive involvement and financial support. If your corporation would like to engage with Fisk or if you can connect us with a potential corporate partner, please contact Marcus Stamps, Director of Major Gifts and Planned Giving, by phone at 615-329-8852 or by email to mstamps@fisk.edu.
Have you sent a gift today? Give online at www.fisk.edu OR phone (615) 329-8710 OR email supportfisk@fisk.edu.
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ALUMNI RELATIONS
LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS Tri-State Friends’ Class of 1961 Hosts Fund Raiser Photo Credits: Tri-State Friends’ Class of 1961 On November 4, 2010, the Tri-State Friends’ Class of 1961 hosted “A Conversation with Mayor Cory Booker” to benefit Fisk University. Held in White Plains, New York, the event allowed guests to interact with the Newark, New Jersey mayor. The emphasis was on how individuals and groups can bring about positive change in their communities. Carolyn Jordan Booker ’61, a former IBM executive, Fisk alumna, and mother of the mayor, also took part in the conversation focusing on the role of corporations to effect community change. Mayor Booker is the nephew of Limuary A. Jordan, Jr. ’67 and Shirley Jordan Booker, D.D.S. ’58.
(L. to R.) Yolanda Wright Gross ’61, Toni Cox-Burns ’61, Mayor Cory Booker, Angeline Butler ’61, Carolyn Jordan Booker ’61, and Barbara Anderson Edwards ’61
(L.to R.) Louetta Farr ’64, Mayor Cory Booker, Angeline Butler ’61, Carolyn Jordan Booker ’61
Cleveland Fisk Club Welcomes President Hazel R. O’Leary ’59 Photo Credits: Cleveland Fisk Club and Nina Dailey ’52
The Fisk Cleveland Club welcomed President Hazel Reid O’Leary ’59 on December 12, 2010. The event was held at the East View Church of Christ in Shaker Heights, Ohio, which is pastored by Rev. Dr. Valentino Lassitor ’74. The club hosted a reception prior to its meeting at which President O’Leary presented the “State of the University” to those assembled. President O’Leary met with Case Western Reserve University officials about the partnership between Fisk and Case Western Reserve University.
Case Western Reserve University’s Knight Professor Emeritus of Humanities, Dr. Kathryn Karipides & Deputy Provost and Vice President for Academic Programs, Dr. Lynn Singer
President O’Leary Presents to Cleveland Fiskites and Guests
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ALUMNI RELATIONS
LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS (continued from page 8) Clubs Elect New Officers Los Angeles Fisk Club President - Adrianne Dent Johnson ’87 Vice President - Jefferson Cox ’07 Secretary - Cornelia Haddox Edwards ’52 Treasurer - Elroy Bond ’57
St. Louis Fisk Club President - Clayton L. McCants ’86 Vice President - Jade D. James ’84 Corresponding Secretary - Karen L. Douglas ’70 Recording Secretary - Lisa Hollingsworth ’78 Financial Secretary - Denis Crosby Peeples ’81 Treasurer - Jeremy Braggs ’00
The new president of the Memphis Fisk Club is George Tillman, Jr. ’78.
Houston Fisk University Alumni Association Hosts MLK Jazz Brunch Photos Credits: Sherryll Howe ’78 and The Houston Defender
The Houston Fisk University Alumni Association (HFUAA) hosted the MLK Jazz Brunch in celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s holiday. The fund raiser featured Joe Carmouche at Café 4212, which is owned by Fisk alumnus, Attorney Walter Strickland ’72. The fundraising committee that spearheaded the event was comprised of Sherryll Howe ’78, Alj Sparrow, M.D. ’79, and Teana Watson, J.D. ’86. Harold B. Crawford, Ed.D. ’65 is the association’s president. The organization is planning several events including the regional G.A.A.F.U. Conference on March 11-13. During the conference, a March 11th reception will be held and on March 12th, the Jubilee Singers® will appear in concert at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church.
Fiskites at the Houston Fisk Alumni Association’s MLK Jazz Brunch. (L. to R.) Front Row: Tonya Johnson-Smallwood ’91, Linda Brown Coleman, Ph.D. ’70, Fisk Professor Emeritus Gladys Forde, Ph.D.; Second Row: Marissa Battle Morgan ’80, Renata Nero, Ph.D. ’80, Joi Beasley ’91, Carole Strong-Thompson ’80, Toni Simmons ’73, Toni Stroud ’78, Linda Bass ’70, Tashuna Davis ’02; Third Row: Frank Simmons ’73, Byron Cobbin ’69, Jack Morgan, D.D.S. ’77, Walter Strickland, J.D. ’72
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ALUMNI RELATIONS
Far West Regional Conference A Success Photo Credits: Adrienne Taylor Latham ’68 and the General Alumni Association of Fisk University, Inc.
The Los Angeles Fisk Club hosted the General Alumni Association’s Far West Regional Conference on December 1617, 2010. A dedicated group of Fiskites converged on the Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles for Fisk fellowship and business. The highlight of the weekend was the Goldens’ Brunch. Goldens attending the brunch were Ernest Dean ’55, Cornelia Haddox Edwards ’52, Royeta Peyton Rogers ’54, Valeria McCray ’43, Marcus Tucker ’56, Marion Lott Nicholas ’45, Donald Stewart ’58, and Elroy Bond ’57. The regional officers elected at the meeting were Chair: Adrianne Dent Johnson ’87 of Los Angeles, CA and Co-Vice Chairs: Elizabeth Watkins Goodman ’82 of San Diego, CA and Emily Harper Allison ’67 of San Pedro, CA.
(L.. To R.) Adrianne Dent Johnson ’87, Dr. Linda Brown Coleman ’70 and Eleanor Searcy ’68
Cornelia Haddox Edwards ’52 (left) and Royeta Peyton Rogers ’54
Elroy Bond ’57 (left) and Ernest Dash ’55
Ngwebifor Fobi-Walker ’98 and Rod Bickerstaff ’79
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ALUMNI RELATIONS
PRESIDENT HAZEL O’LEARY TO SPEAK AT HBCU COLLEGE FESTIVAL IN ALEXANDRIA, VA ON FEBRUARY 20TH
President Hazel R. O'Leary will deliver the closing keynote address at the 9th Annual HBCU College Festival on February 20th during the 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. services at the Alfred Street Baptist Church at 301 South Alfred Street in Old Town, Alexandria, VA. The festival begins on February 19th at T.C. Williams High School located at 3330 King Street in Alexandria, Va. Representatives from more than 50 historically black colleges and universities including Fisk will meet with students and their parents. Prospective students should bring copies of their transcripts, ACT or SAT Scores, completed college applications and letters of recommendations. (L. to R.) Emily Harper Allison ’67 and Elroy Bond ’57 at business meeting of Farwest Regional Conference
G.A.A.F.U. Board of Directors (Effective January 2, 2011) Linda Brown Coleman, Ph.D. ’70 – Chair Vincent H. Leal ’77 - Treasurer Gina L. Davis, J.D. ’82 – Parliamentarian P. Andrew Patterson ’65 – Alumni Trustee William E. Settle ’77 – Southern Region Chair Gina L. Davis, J.D. ’82 - Midwest Region Chair * Kris Smith ’75 – Midwest Region Co-Vice Chair * Tonya Johnson Smallwood ’91 – Southwest Region Chair Karen A. Maynard ’82 – Eastern Region Chair * Stephanie V. Williams ’72 – Eastern Region Co-Vice Chair * Emily Harper Allison ’67 – Farwest Co-Vice Chair * Keith J. Gaddie, Ph.D. ’03 – Young Alumni Division Chair
Faye Weaver ’67 – Vice Chair P. Gregory Johnson ’69 – Secretary Allegra Montgomery Walker, J.D. ’93 – Legal Counsel Mathew E. Knowles ’75 – Alumni Trustee * Edwina Harris Hamby, Ph.D. ’69 – Southern Region Vice Chair John Carruthers ’73 – Midwest Region Co-Vice Chair * April M. Walls ’07 – Midwest Region Co-Vice Chair * Frank Simmons ’73 – Southwest Region Vice Chair Karriem A. Dean ’92 – Eastern Region Co-Vice Chair * Adrianne Dent Johnson ’87 – Farwest Region Chair * Elizabeth Watkins Goodman ’82 – Farwest Co-Vice Chair * Demetrius Short ’99 – Young Alumni Division Vice Chair
* term begins January 2, 2011
The Fundraising Committee of the Houston Fisk University Alumni Association (L. to R.) Teana Watson, J.D. ’86, Alj Sparrow, M.D. ’79 and Sherryll Howe ’78
Engaged Students Listen Attentively to Global and Community Lecture Series Speaker, Dr. Bradley Sheares ’78
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ALUMNI RELATIONS
REUNION 2011 SCHEDULE APRIL 30 – MAY 2, 2011 It is your reunion year – 1931, 1936 (Platinum), 1941, 1946, 1951, 1956, 1961 (Goldens), 1966, 1971, 1976, 1981, 1986 (Silvers), 1991, 1996, 2001, and 2006! Any contribution given to Fisk during your reunion year (7/1/10-6/30/11) counts toward your class goal! The Loews Vanderbilt Hotel, 2100 West End Avenue, is the Official Headquarters Hotel for the 2011 Fisk Alumni Class Reunion. The block of rooms has been reserved for Fisk Alumni. The special group rate is $185 (Single and Double); $205 (Triple); $225 (Quad) and will be effective until April 1, 2011. The availability of rooms is on first come, first serve basis. Remember to identify yourself as a Fisk alumna/us. To make reservations, call (615) 320-1700 or 1-800-336-3335. The following is a brief outline of the schedule. Friday, April 29, 2011 Registration, 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m., The Richardson House Alumni & Friends Authors’ Panel, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m., John Hope & Aurelia Elizabeth Franklin Library – Special Collections G.A.A.F.U. Annual Meeting, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m., Fisk Memorial Chapel Midnight Cruise, 11:45 p.m. - 2:00 a.m., General Jackson Showboat (Casual Attire) Saturday, April 30, 2011 Breakfast, 8:30 a.m., Adam K. Spence Hall Art Gallery Tours, 10:00 a.m., Carl Van Vechten Art Gallery Silver Sons & Daughters Luncheon, 12:00 noon, Adam K. Spence Hall (Class of 1986 & Guests) Golden Class Meetings & Photos (Class of 1941, Class of 1946, Class of 1951, Class of 1956) Jubilee Hall – 1:30 p.m. Golden Class of 1961 Class Meeting – 2:30 p.m. – The Little Theatre Class Photos 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. Steps in front of John Hope and Aurelia Elizabeth Franklin Library (All Classes except Goldens) 1966 at 2:00 p.m., 1971 at 2:10 p.m.; 1976 at 2:20 p.m.; 1981 at 2:30 p.m.; 1986 at 2:40 p.m.; 1991 at 2:55 p.m.; 1996 at 3:10 p.m.; 2001 at 3:20 p.m.; and 2006 at 3:30 p.m. Golden Class of 1961 Group Photo – 3:45 p.m. – Steps on the west side of Cravath Hall (Meharry side, between Talley-Brady Hall and The Little Theatre) Class Meetings, 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.. (all classes except Goldens) Pre-Gala Social, 7:30 p.m., Loews Vanderbilt (Cocktail Attire) Gala Banquet, 8:30 p.m., Loews Vanderbilt (Cocktail Attire) Sunday, May 1, 2011 Breakfast, 8:30 a.m., Adam K. Spence Hall Baccalaureate Service, 10:00 a.m., Fisk Memorial Chapel (Special seating for Class of ’86 and All Goldens) President’s Reception, The Campus Grove, Immediately Following the Baccalaureate Service Golden Sons and Daughters Luncheon, 12:00 Noon, Appleton Room - Jubilee Hall Class of 1961 Memorial Service, 2:00 p.m., Fisk Memorial Chapel Class Photo Pick-up, 4:00 - 7:30 p.m., The Richardson House Fisk Jubilee Singers® in Concert, 7:30 p.m., Fisk Memorial Chapel Monday, May 2, 2011 Breakfast, 8:30 a.m., Adam K. Spence Hall Commencement, 10:00 a.m. (Special seating for Class of ’86 and All Goldens) www.fisk.edu
OFFICEOF ALUMNI AFFAIRS alumni@fisk.edu 800-443-ALUM (2586) fax: 615-329-8633
Have you sent a gift today? Give online at www.fisk.edu OR phone (615) 329-8710 OR email supportfisk@fisk.edu.
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ALUMNI RELATIONS
ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT AWARD CRITERIA All Fisk graduates are invited to nominate alumni for the 2011 Alumni Achievement Awards. The following criteria shall govern the selection made by the Alumni Achievement Award Committee. The recipient should be one who has excelled in his/her profession or endeavors and who has made a significant contribution by his/her work to his/her profession or to his/her community. The recipient should be one whose overall stature reflects the Fisk ideals and is a member of the General Alumni Association of Fisk University, Inc. Awards will be considered in three (3) main categories: Professional achievement Service to the nation or to one’s community Service to Fisk University. The nomination is to be accompanied by the following and submitted no later than February 15, 2011: A brief letter of introduction from the person making the nomination A brief statement (no more than five typed pages) outlining the accomplishments or contributions of the nominee Contact information on the nominee (mailing address, phone number, etc.) A photograph (5”x7” or electronic file as a tiff or jpg). Materials may be electronically transmitted to: alumni@fisk.edu OR mailed to: Alumni Achievement Award Committee Office of Alumni Affairs Fisk University 1000 Seventeenth Avenue North Nashville, TN 37208-3051 Recipients must be present to receive the award at the Alumni Gala Banquet on Saturday, April 30, 2011 at the Loews Vanderbilt Plaza, Nashville, TN. For more information, contact the Office of Alumni Affairs, 1-800-443-ALUM (2586).
THE TENNESSEAN NAMES PRESIDENT HAZEL R. O’LEARY ONE OF THE MOST POWERFUL WOMEN IN TENNESSEE The Tennessean selected Fisk President Hazel Reid O'Leary ’59 as one of “Tennessee’s Most Powerful Women". In addition to President O'Leary, honorees included on this year's list include Martha Ingram, Andrea Conte, Jane Eskind, Tipper Gore, Thelma Harper and Pat Engaged Students Listen Attentively to Global and Community Lecture Series Speaker, Dr. Bradley Sheares ’78 Summit.
Have you sent a gift today? Give online at www.fisk.edu OR phone (615) 329-8710 OR email supportfisk@fisk.edu.
ADVANCEMENT & FUND RAISING
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FROM The Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dear Alumni and Friends, Thank you for your support of Fisk University and the impressive leaders and scholars who have entrusted the shaping of their futures to Fisk. We are excited about the diverse opportunities that are presenting themselves as we begin this new calendar year. Regarding our current fundraising efforts, I bring you both positive news and negative news. Allow me to share the positive news with you first. Fisk’s current fundraising total of $1,992,969 received as of January 31 is 21.16% more than the $1,644,881 raised at this time last year. We have received 64.29% of the $3.1 million needed to meet the March 31 goal. The cumulative chart on the next page depicts these data. There are some notable giving trends from the end-of-year appeal including a 4.11% increase in the total number of donors, with 1,144 this year compared to 1,097 for the same period last year and a 40% boost in the average amount per alumni gift, which increased from $653 in FY 10 to $911 in FY 11. Year to date, we are delighted that we have 299 first time donors who have collectively given $66,480. Alumni response to the G.A.A.F.U. challenge to participate in electronic funds transfer and to make sustained monthly or quarterly gifts has exceeded the projected monthly revenue goal of $7,000. Eighty-three (83) alumni currently contribute to Fisk monthly through recurring electronic transfer of funds. This is a 24% increase over last year and Fisk is receiving $7,243 monthly in gifts as a result of this effort. We hope that the number of alumni using this sustained giving mechanism will continue to increase. Now, let me share the negative news. While alumni’s giving is up in terms of dollars, the number of alumni making gifts is down by 20 percent. We have 43 days to raise $1,107,031 to demonstrate to SACSCOC that we are making significant progress. High participation rates from our alumni, trustees, friends and corporate supporters will send a strong message to SACSCOC that the students at Fisk matter to them. Reunion Classes, please send your gifts now. Now is the time for all alumni who value their Fisk diplomas to step up to the plate and send contributions. Now is the time for Fisk friends who want Fisk University to thrive to send gifts. The Year 2011 marks the 145th Anniversary of Fisk’s founding. I am pleased to report that as Fisk begins the countdown to its 150th Anniversary, we are in the planning phase of the $60 Million for $30 Million Comprehensive Campaign. With the financial assistance of the Fisk Board of Trustees and G.A.A.F.U. Board members, a Tennessee based firm, Saad and Shaw, has been selected as our campaign counsel to train and guide the board, faculty, staff and volunteers in fundraising strategies while they develop and support Fisk’s implementation of a successful campaign. Thank you, in advance, for your continued support and for all you have done and will do for Fisk University. Sincerely, Shirley Q. Range
Have you sent a gift today? Give online at www.fisk.edu OR phone (615) 329-8710 OR email supportfisk@fisk.edu.
ADVANCEMENT & FUND RAISING
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The graph below depicts Fisk’s fund raising progress on a month-by-month basis and compares it to each of the previous three fiscal years. It shows progress toward the FY 11 goal of $8.4 million as compared to the same point in time in FYs 08, 09 and 10. As of January 31, 2011, 23.73% of the overall FY 11 goal has been reached. We have reached the 64.29% mark toward attainment of the March 31 goal of $3,100,000. Notable giving trends from the end-of-year donations include the receipt of 125 gifts greater than or equal to $1,000, 26 gifts greater than or equal to $5,000 and 10 individual gifts ranging from $18,000 to $50,000. Major gifts from corporate and foundation donors include: Alvin and Sally Beaman Foundation ($50,000); Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation ($39,000 ); United Church of Christ ($32,412); and Highmark, Inc. ($28,854).
Source: Office of Institutional Advancement, January 31, 2011
Have you sent a gift today? Give online at www.fisk.edu OR phone (615) 329-8710 OR email supportfisk@fisk.edu.
Cultivating Scholars & Leaders One by One
COMING EVENTS FISK UNIVERSITY
Office of Institutional Advancement 1000 17th Avenue North Nashville, TN 37208 (615) 329-8530 - Telephone (615) 329-8627 - Facsimile
Nashville, TN. Tuesday, February 1, 2011. Fisk Women’s Basketball vs. Selma College @ 6 p.m. Fisk Men’s Basketball vs. Crichton (Victory University) @ 8 p.m. Henderson A. Johnson Gymnasium.** Marietta, GA. Thursday, February 3, 2011. Fisk vs. Southern Polytechnic College. Women’s Basketball @ 5 p.m. and Men’s Basketball @ 7 p.m. St. Charles, GA. Monday, February 7, 2011. Fisk Women’s Basketball vs. Lindenwood College @ 6:30 p.m. Nashville, TN. Tuesday, February 8, 2011. Fisk Jubilee Singers® @ TPAC’s Jackson Hall, 10:30 a.m. Contact: 615-782-4084, Sherri Leathers, sleathers@tpack.org. Nashville, TN. Thursday, February 10, 2011. Fisk vs. Concordia. Senior Night. Men’s Basketball @ 8 p.m. Henderson A. Johnson Gymnasium ** Clinton, SC. Thursday, February 10, 2011. Fisk Jubilee Singers® @ Presbyterian College, Belk Auditorium, 11 a.m. Free Event/No Tickets. Contact: 864-833-8015, Alan Rudell, amrudell@mail.presby.edu.
We’re on the Web! www.fisk.edu
Denmark, SC. Saturday, February 12, 2011. Fisk vs. Voorhees College. Women’s Basketball @ 1 p.m. and Men’s Basketball @ 3 p.m. Columbia, TN. Saturday, February 12, 2011. Fisk Jubilee Singers® @ Columbia State Community College. Tickets/ Contact: 931-540-2873, Emily Gaskill, egaskil@columbiastate.edu. Columbia, SC. Sunday, February 13, 2011. Fisk vs. Allen University. Women’s Basketball @ 2 p.m. and Men’s Basketball @ 4 p.m.
Keep in touch with Fisk—
Holly Springs, MS. Saturday, February 19, 2011. Fisk vs. Rust College. Women’s Basketball @ 5:30 p.m. and Men’s Basketball @ 7:30 p.m.
Listen to WFSK (88.1 FM) streaming on the internet at www.wfsk.org.
Alexandria, VA. Sunday, February 20, 2011. President Hazel O’Leary, Keynote Speaker, 9th Annual HBCU College Festival. 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. services at the Alfred Street Baptist Church, 301 South Alfred Street in Old Town.
If you did not receive the FISK Focus directly, we are missing your current e-mail address. Please send it to alumni@fisk.edu.
Morristown, TN. Sunday, February 20, 2011. Fisk Jubilee Singers® @ First Presbyterian Church, 3 p.m. Free Event/No Tickets. Contact: 423-586-4281, Marcy Lay, musicfpc@bellsouth.net. Selma, AL. Wednesday, February 23, 2011. Fisk Women’s Basketball vs. Selma College @ 5 p.m. Selma, AL. Thursday, February 24, 2011. Fisk Men’s Basketball vs. Concordia College @ 8 p.m. Memphis, TN. Saturday, February 26, 2011. Premier of “The Last Championship Teams” highlighting the 1973 and 1975 Fisk football teams. National Civil Rights Museum @ 6 p.m. Memphis, TN. Saturday, February 26, 2011. Fisk Jubilee Singers® @ Evergreen Presbyterian Church. Tickets/ Contact: 901-834-3414, Carole Blankenship, Blankenship@rhodes.edu OR John Bass, bassj@rhodes.edu. **Catch live stream of Fisk Women’s and Men’s Basketball Games at www.ihigh.com
Have you sent a gift today? Give online at www.fisk.edu OR phone (615) 329-8710 OR email supportfisk@fisk.edu.