11 Spring Summer FS&U

The magazine for Fayetteville State University Alumni and Friends

SPRING/SUMMER 2011

FSU, China, U.S. Deputy Secretary of Education, and the White House Initiative on HBCUs

United for Excellence in Education

New Nursing Program Set for Fall Spring Commencement Honors 571 Grads Spring/Summer 2011

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2011

Fayetteville State University Bronco Football Sept. 3 6:00 pm

Sept. 8 7:00 pm Sept. 17 6:00 pm Sept. 24 6:00 pm Oct. 1 6:00 pm Oct. 8 1:00 pm

Oct. 15 2:00 pm

Oct. 22 1:30 pm

UNC PEMBROKE "Two Rivers Classic" L.N. Jeralds Stadium Fayetteville, NC

at CARSON NEWMAN Burke-Tarr Stadium Jefferson City, TN

ELIZABETH CITY ST. L.N. Jeralds Stadium Fayetteville, NC

at WINSTON-SALEM ST. Bowman Gray Stadium Winston-Salem, NC

ST. AUGUSTINE'S L.N. Jeralds Stadium Fayetteville, NC

VIRGINIA ST.

(Nationally Televised) L.N. Jeralds Stadium Fayetteville, NC

SHAW

"HOMECOMING" L.N. Jeralds Stadium Fayetteville, NC

at LIVINGSTONE

Alumni Memorial Stadium Salisbury, NC

Oct. 29 4:00 pm

at JOHNSON C. SMITH

Nov. 5 1:00 pm

at VIRGINIA UNION

Irwin Belk Complex Charlotte, NC

Hovey Field Richmond, VA

2011 FSU Football Ticket Prices

Homecoming Reserved/Premium - $28 Homecoming (vs. Shaw) - $25 Two Rivers Classic (vs. UNCP) - $15 in Adv. - $20 at Gate 2

FS&U Magazine

Ticket Office - 910.672.1724 Athletic Department - 910.672.1314 Sports Information - 910.672.1254 Reserved/Premium General Admission Military/Seniors (60 and over)/ FSU Faculty & Staff Visiting Students w/ID

- $18 - $15 - $12 - $10

On the Cover Chancellor James Anderson (Center) is shown hosting special guests that included Deputy Secretary of Education Anthony Wilder Miller, and representatives from five Chinese universities.

Contents

Excellence in Teacher Education Teacher Education 4 School of Education Achievements and Initiatives 7 Endowed Professor Named in FSU School of Education 8 Teacher Quality Impact Research 9 School of Education: Featured Faculty Administration 10 Proud To Be 11 Trustee Spotlight: Juanita Pilgrim 12 Trustee Spotlight: Jerry Dean 13 FSU Wins National Awards 14 An Extreme Day

FS&U Magazine is published by the Fayetteville State University Division of Institutional Advancement, Office of Marketing and Special Events.

Address:

Phone: Fax:

1200 Murchison Road Fayetteville, NC 28301 910-672-1838 910-672-1989

We welcome story ideas by email to: jwomble@uncfsu.edu or bminter@uncfsu.edu Chancellor James A. Anderson Editor Arthur G. Affleck, III, JD Vice Chancellor for Institutional Advancement Associate Editors Ben C. Minter Director of Marketing and Special Events

Academics 16 Nursing Program Resumes 17 NC Teacher Assistant of the Year 19 My China Experience 20 Professor Had a Hand in Monument 22 Largest Class Receives Degrees 24 Staff and Faculty Honorees 25 The Center for Defense and Homeland Security Student Life 27 Spring 2011 Open House 28 New Miss FSU Crowned 30 Student Speaks Before National Press Club 31 Concert Choir to Perform in Carnegie Hall 32 Smooth Move 2011 33 Entrepreneur Students Demonstrate Winning Ways 34 Unfinished Business (SGA) 35 Honda Campus All Star Challenge 36 Gospel Choir Celebrates with CD Sports 37 Darrell Armstrong: Winding Road to NBA Championship 40 Intramural Teams Capture National Titles 41 Cole Wins PGA Championship Alumni 42 Alumni: The White and Blue 48 Affion Crockett: Alum Debuts Owns Comedy Show

Jeffery M. Womble Director of Public Relations Writers Arthur G. Affleck, III Kimberly Anderson Curtis B. Charles Kimberly Durden Renee Stinson Hall Dorothy Hardy Brooksie Harrington Leontye Lewis Alex Podlogar Jeffery M. Womble Fayetteville State University is committed to equality of educational opportunity and does not discriminate against applicants, students, or employees based on race, color, national origin, religion, age, or disability. It is the policy of Fayetteville State University to create diversity among its student body by recruiting and enrolling students without regard to race, gender, or ethnicity. Applicants of all races, gender and ethnic backgrounds are encouraged to apply for enrollment.

Fayetteville State University is proud to be a constituent institution of The University of North Carolina.

www.uncfsu.edu

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23,000 Copies of this public document were printed at a cost of $1.27 per copy.

Spring/Summer 2011

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From the Chancellor’s Desk

Dear FSU Alumni, Family, and Friends, We look forward to another academic year with optimism and hope. I would be remiss however if I failed to mention an issue that has everyone who loves Fayetteville State University concerned, and that is the current state of the economy in North Carolina and the effects it has had on your alma mater.

Like other institutions in the state, FSU has had to make some tough decisions as it relates to the budget crisis. Some faculty positions were cut. Class sections were reduced, and degree programs with low graduate outputs were eliminated. These were tough, but necessary changes as we endeavored to achieve our overarching goal of protecting the overall academic integrity of the university. As you will see with the content of this issue of FS&U magazine, we are certain we have done that.

One way we have sought to add additional revenue is by formulating partnerships with institutions in China. On the cover of the magazine is our commencement speaker, Deputy Secretary of Education Anthony Wilder Miller, pictured with administrators from institutions in China – East China University of Science and Technology, Beijing Foreign Studies University, Heibei Normal University, Inner Mongolia Normal University, and Baotou Teachers’ College. Each of these schools met with us and expressed their interest in sending students to FSU to study. In turn, FSU students will have the opportunity to broaden their horizons by studying at their institutions. This partnership will benefit FSU not only financially, but also it will help us to fulfill our mission of making our students 21st Century global scholars.

Since FSU hosted our partners in education from China and was fortunate to have a speaker from the highest levels of education here in the United States, we deemed it appropriate that the focus of this issue of FS&U is excellence in teacher education. Inside is an article about a study that shows that classroom teachers who graduate from FSU are among the top performers in the state. Also featured is FSU alumnus Mr. Kamal Watkins who was named North Carolina’s Teacher Assistant of the Year, the first African-American male to receive this honor. A faculty member from the School of Education has also been spotlighted for research in education.

While the budget crisis will have long-term implications on FSU and other state institutions for years to come, we remain unyielding in our commitment to providing our students with the best educational experiences possible. We owe that to them and to each of you who support this institution.

In the Bronco Spirit,

James A. Anderson Chancellor

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China Delegation Visits FSU Campus

Spring/Summer 2011

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School of Education Achievements and Initiatives

By Dr. Leontye Lewis, Dean of the School of Education

Dr. Leontye Lewis, Dean (2nd from left), is shown with (L-R) Dr. Thomas Conway, FSU Vice Chancellor and Chief of Staff, NC Lieutenant Governor Walter Dalton, and Dr. Jon Young, FSU Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.

F

SU is one of North Carolina’s oldest teacher training institutions and second oldest state-supported institution of higher learning. The School of Education (SOE) is organized into four academic departments: 1) Educational Leadership; 2) Elementary Education; 3) Health, Physical Education, and Human Services; and 4) Middle Grades, Secondary, and Special Education. Support service units include the Curriculum Learning Resource Laboratory, Office of School Services, Office of Teacher Education, Early Childhood Learning Center, Research Center, Teacher Recruitment Office, and the SOE Academic Advisement and Retention Center. There are fifteen (15) teaching field options offered at the baccalaureate level, ten fields of study (10) through a Master of Education degree, eight (8) teaching field options through a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree, and the doctorate in educational leadership. The SOE celebrates 57 years of full and continued accreditation by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and is one of only seven institutions in North Carolina on the First Annual List of NCATE Accredited Institutions, July 1, 1954. The SOE has also consistently exceeded the 80% Praxis II pass rate required by NCATE. The current pass rate is 91%.

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Academic enrollment is detailed in table 1 below.

Table 1: SOE Enrollment by year across Department EDLE

ELEM

HPEHS

MGSSE

Total

2007-2008

107

463

62

240

872

2008-2009

92

449

61

157

759

2009-2010

81

477

60

236

854

2010-2011

80

487

55

183

807

This 2010-2011 807 enrollment number includes 71.87% black, 19.45% white, 3.22% Hispanic, 1.73% American Indian, .12% Asian, and 3.61% others.

Over four academic years, the SOE has recorded a consistent increase in the number of teachers prepared for the region, state, and nation, as is detailed in table 2. There is a decrease in completion number for the most recent academic year and efforts are underway to analyze unit data and to use that data to apply strategies to guide the school in meeting initial preparation projection that are detailed in table 3 below.

Table 2: Number of completers across years by degree program level ’06-‘07

’07-‘08

’08-‘09

’09-‘10

’10-‘11

BS

71

84

116

152

96

M. Ed.

41

54

32

21

33

MSA

22

20

31

14

18

Ed. D. TOTAL

2 136

13 171

9 188

11 198

7 154

Table 3: Traditional Completion Numbers & UNCGA Projections Year ‘07-‘08 ‘08-‘09 ‘09-‘10 ‘10-‘11 ‘11-‘12

Target 91 95 115 142 170

Actual* 108 141 170 118

* Includes Licensure Only candidates

UNCGA data report that the SOE is the 8th highest producer of traditional graduates in the UNC System, a 95.89% increase since 2002.

The SOE has reported 77.6% and 84.9% retention of our undergraduate and graduate students respectively. Reported graduation numbers for the SOE are 21% and 30.3% respectively. The SOEAARC is a critical support unit through which all first time freshman and transfer students receive program advisement. Participation in the Freshman Learning Community (LC) also facilitates the advisement process, with our students reporting over 80% satisfaction rate. Each fall the Dean teaches a Sophomore LC course designed to propel students to admission to Teacher Education. Recruitment and advisement continue to be major emphasis for the SOE. The Director of Teacher Education Recruitment and Advisement continues to serve as an integral part of the recruitment and advisement effort as we move to not only increase our numbers of enrollees and degrees earned, but to increase the number of students who are admitted to high needs areas.

The SOE is involved in numerous collaborative activities and has successful partnerships with public schools and community colleges in its service area. The SOE has expanded its PDS partnership affiliation and has a signed partnership agreement with Baotou Teachers College in Upper Mongolia, China. A SOE faculty has secured a grant that will offer a program required course to teacher education majors enrolled at Baotou using cameras to offer the course in synchronous time. The SOE continues its relationship with Cross Creek Early College High School. CCECHS was selected as a Learning Laboratory Initiative (LLI) site and is a partner in a funded New School Project Research and Engagement Grant with the SOE. In order to facilitate easy and seamless access to higher education opportunities, the SOE has expanded signed dual enrollment agreements

with community colleges to include new areas of elementary education and middle grades education in addition to the existing birth through kindergarten agreements. There are currently 194 dual enrollment students in the SOE. Additionally, our PDS partners have identified areas of strength and areas for development for in-service teachers, a process that is served by a Principals’ Advisory Board whose members were identified by local Superintendent.

Services also include 63 faculty-sponsored service commitments, extensive professional development for over 600 public school teachers, and 150 school administrators.

The 2011 Excellence in Teaching Institute, which was held on April 8th and 9th, made twenty-five professional development opportunities available to first year and experienced teachers.

The STEM focused workshops showcased excellence in PK-16 classrooms while demonstrating effective teaching techniques and sharing actual instructional materials with participants. Attendees who participated in the structured professional learning opportunities included 82 FSU students, 79 public school teachers, 15 public school students and 24 community members. This two-day learning experience featured distinguished Lieutenant Governor Dalton as the keynote speaker.

In its fourth year, a mentor partnership between Fayetteville State University and Cumberland County Schools provides activities to help at-risk girls in grades three – eight develop good study habits, strong social skills, and self-confidence.

Forty-five participants were encouraged to set academic and personal improvement goals. Monthly meetings included themed reading circles and guest presenters. Cultural activities provided the girls with support to grow academically, socially, and personally.

The Mathematics and Science Education Center (MSEC) provided professional and personal development opportunities to 70 parents, 75 students, and 142 teachers through a series of workshops, an academy, parent/student activity nights, and conferences. The areas of concentration included precollege preparation, economics, mathematics, and science. Students from four Title I elementary schools participated in the Interdisciplinary Math and Science Fair during American Education Week. Approximately 300 students from T.C. Berrien, Ferguson Easley, Lucile Souders, Margaret Willis, and the Early Childhood Learning Center had an opportunity to partake in 35 interactive displays designed and created Spring/Summer 2011

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by FSU elementary methods students. In addition, over 850 students from Scotland County and Cumberland County schools attended a reader’s theatre of the awardwinning children’s picture book Freedom on the Menu: The Greensboro Sit-ins. The reader’s theater, based on Professor Carole Boston Weatherford’s book , was presented by FSU students as a service learning project. The program opened and closed with a performance by Professor Weatherford of interactive poems celebrating African-American culture.

The More-at-Four Classroom, sponsored through the FSU Early Childhood Learning Center at FSU continues to document and currently serves 86 children between the age of six weeks and four years. The Center is served by16 staff members and is currently involved in the process to increase its four-star ranking to the highest ranking of five-stars.

Many SOE initial degree or licensure seeking students indicate a financial need that prohibits them from registering for the Praxis I test, which is required for admission to Teacher Education. The SOE has established a Praxis I Scholarship fund to assist students with Praxis I registration. Praxis I Scholarships are awarded to FSU Teacher Education students based on their financial need and expressed eligibility standards.

A PDS Teacher Assistant Cohort was instituted in January 2011 to assist in the recruitment of TAs to become teachers of record. Individuals in this cohort take two eight-week professional core courses per semester at a local high school under the instruction of FSU faculty. Students receive academic advisement and support through the SOEAARC and professional development support for PRAXIS I reading and mathematics. Upon completing the professional core courses

and securing admission to Teacher Education, students will complete coursework on campus until graduation.

A Science Learning Experience for Students Entering Grades 4-6 will be implemented in summer 2011. This program gives students completing grades three through five (2011) the opportunity to make gains in their scientific achievement.

The Science Summer Academy will focus on students using investigations, tools, and vocabulary to support their mastery of district and state science goals. A parent component is aligned to the Academy. A similar Mathematics Learning Experience for Students Entering Grades 4-6 will also be launched in summer 2011.

The School of Education at Fayetteville State University supports the six Strategic Priorities identified by the institution.

To that end measurable outcomes will continue to be identified and resulting data analyzed to maintain consistently high achievement for students, faculty, and staff. The SOE, in its bid to continue to support faculty scholarship will undertake a plan to launch a SOE led national peer reviewed journal through the Research Center. Grant funds will be applied to meet expectations. The SOE has secured just under $1M in grant funds during the 2009-2011 academic years, which are being applied to serve our partners with strategies to close the achievement gap. Since 2008, the SOE had published a Newsletter through which it heralds much of the unit’s achievements and initiatives. There is also a SOE Alumni Chapter that assists us in our initiatives. Faculty members have published over 18 peer reviewed articles and books.

We are on an upward trajectory and will continue to work collaboratively within the unit, across the campus, and through external collaborations to continue to serve the region, state, and nation by preparing qualified, quality teachers.

Criminal Justice Students Handling Disputes Perhaps one of the most rewarding and humbling experiences one can have is aiding in the healing of others’ hearts. Even more awe-inspiring is the chance to help people transform their hurt into insight about themselves and others. The Cumberland County Dispute Resolution Center (DRC) has been healing hearts and transforming harms for more than a quarter-century, much of that time under the directorship of Tina Estle (BS, Criminal Justice, 2008). Handling more than 2500 disputes of all manner, from juvenile referrals to landlordtenant disputes, from criminal charges to Medicaid appeals, the DRC staff and volunteers listen to disputants and help transform anger into accord and wounds into wisdom.

And that isn’t all. For those who seek it, the DRC offers victim-offender mediation, a carefully managed opportunity for a victim to express herself regarding her injury to an offender, and for the offender to offer her words of responsibility and obligation.

For the past several years, the Department of Criminal Justice at Fayetteville State University has been an integral part of transforming harms in Cumberland County. Many interns 6

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from the department’s internship program have learned about an effective restorative justice program nested in a traditional court system. A number of staff, including the executive director, past and current Teen Court Coordinators are alumni of the criminal justice program. Additionally, three faculty are on the board of directors of the DRC (the Hon. Toni King, assistant district attorney Cheri Siler-Mack and Dr. Michael DeValve). Most significantly, however, the department has twice offered CRJC 370: Mediation and Restorative Justice as a service learning course; the service portion of the course involved students receiving (in nearly all cases) mediator state certification. It is estimated that Fayetteville State Students mediated approximately 150 criminal mediations, and another 50 juvenile mediations during just one of the two offerings of the restorative justice service-learning course. Approximately 90 percent of these mediations resulted in disputes being settled and charges being dropped.

The DRC’s services are free, and anyone can bring their dispute to the DRC for mediation. The DRC can be reached at (910) 486-9465.

Endowed Professor Named in FSU School of Education

D

r. Gail L. Thompson has been appointed to the Wachovia – A Wells Fargo Company – Endowed Chair of Education at Fayetteville State University (FSU). The announcement was made by FSU Chancellor James A. Anderson and Dr. Leontye Lewis, Dean of the School of Education.

Dr. Thompson earned her undergraduate degree in journalism from the University of Southern California and her master’s and doctoral degrees in education from Claremont Graduate University also in California. Dr. Thompson, who taught junior high for three years and high school for 11 years, is a former member of the California State Board of Education’s African American Advisory Committee.

She has received several awards from student organizations and a civic award for teaching. In 2009, Claremont Graduate University awarded her its Distinguished Alumna Award.

An accomplished author, Dr. Thompson has written six books: The Power of One: How You Can Help or Harm African American Students (2010), which was nominated for the 2010 National Staff Development Council “Book of the Year” award; A Brighter Day: How Parents Can Help African American Youth (2009); Up Where We Belong: Helping African American and Latino Students Rise in School and in Life (2007); Through Ebony Eyes: What Teachers Need to Know But Are Afraid to Ask About African American Students (2004), a book that has received a considerable amount of attention from educators, talk show hosts, and news reporters across the nation; What African American Parents Want Educators to Know (2003); and African American Teens Discuss Their Schooling Experiences (2002). One of her essays was published in USA Today, and her work has been published in numerous academic journals and three edited books.

Dr. Thompson has appeared on PBS television’s Tony Brown’s Journal, National Public Radio, and Tavis Smiley’s radio show. She has been interviewed for Scholastic Instructor and Inside Higher Education and has been quoted in numerous newspaper articles. She has served as a reviewer for the Educational Broadcasting Network, Millmark Education, Houghton Mifflin, and several academic journals, and has done presentations, keynote addresses, workshops, and consultant work throughout the United States and two presentations in Canada.

Dr. Thompson is married to Rufus Thompson, a veteran educator. They have three children: Dr. Nafissa Thompson-

Spires, NaChe’, a graduate student; and Stephen, a college undergraduate.

Announcing the School of Education Dean’s Advisory Board The School of Education (SOE) convened its inaugual Dean’s Advisory Board on Friday, April 29, 2011. The Dean’s Advisory Board is intended to support the Dean in achieving the mission of the School of Education.

Specifically, the Board is designed to provide high-level advice that will help to ensure the School’s programs are balanced, comprehensive, and aligned with current educational policies and successful strategies.

Members of the Board will advise the Dean in the overall development of the School; serve as role models for our students; provide guidance in maintaining programs and curriculum to meet the needs of a global learner in a 21st Century society; assist the Dean in fundraising; and promote a positive image of the School. Board members serve a three year term with staggered rotation off the Board and will meet three times a year: September, January, and May. Board members selected the Dean to convene the full Board meetings.

Two committees were formed to achieve the specific objectives of the Board and committee chairs will convene those meetings. Specific fund raising projects have been identified for immediate development.

Membership includes alumni, business leaders, faithbased representatives, and SOE faculty.

• Ms. Gloria Moore Carter, Alumna • Mr. Henry McKoy, Assistant Secretary, Department of Commerce • Mr. Samuel Greene, Alumnus • Mr. Charles Worthy, Alumnus • Ms. Carrie J. Sutton, Alumna and Cumberland County School Board • Ms. Mary C. Owens, FCCMC • Dr. Ethel Gore, Alumna • Ms. Cynthia McCormic, Alumna • Mr. James Hargett, Alumnus • Mr. Greg Reames, Wachovia Bank • Mike Baldwin, Walmart General Manager • Dr. Frank Till, Superintendent, Cumberland County School System • Dr. Leontye L. Lewis, SOE Dean

Spring/Summer 2011

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UNCGA Teacher Quality Impact Research Findings Reflect Positive Impact of FSU Teacher Education Graduates

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n 2009, the University of North Carolina General Administration (UNCGA), in collaboration with Carolina Institute for Public Policy, conducted research to determine the “Impacts of Teacher Preparation on Student Test Scores in North Carolina.” Data in the study represented all institutions in The University of North Carolina System and focused on secondary education, middle grades, and elementary test scores over the period of 2001-2008. UNCGA Education Deans’ Council members were involved in refining process at various stages of the study.

As we contemplate the results of this historic research initiative, let’s consider the employment history of the students who completed the education degree or licensure requirements through the School of Education (SOE) at Fayetteville State University (FSU). Cumberland County employs the largest number of graduates at various instructional levels, from teachers of records to administrators. An identified 70% of Cumberland County education employees are SOE alumni.

Harnett, Robeson, Hoke, and Sampson are the statewide employers of the next largest number of SOE alumni. Of the teachers prepared by UNC institutions, FSU and one other institution prepares 4% of the total number of teachers.

It is important to note that there are 5 UNC institutions that prepare less than 4%; 5 preparing between 5 and 7% and three preparing greater than 7% of the overall teacher UNC population.

Given FSU’s contribution to the teaching force of the region and state, what impact do FSU graduates have on student learning? In order to present valid and reliable findings, the researchers exacted controlled for variables not under control of any teacher preparation programs. These variables covered

three areas – student, classroom, and school. Some specific factors include: days absent and suspension rates; gender; race/ethnicity; parental education; poverty level; disability/ gifted; overage/underage for grade; class and school size; and total per pupil expenditures; among others.

The findings, which were published in a report, reveal that the students who complete their teacher preparation program in English education at FSU are one of two institutions in the system that document a statistically significant and positive impact on the learning of the children in their classroom. FSU was one of four in the state with a similar impact in the area of science education. The results indicate that the achievement of the children who are taught by the FSU graduates in the secondary science and English classroom, with specific variables controlled, were not accidental learning, but based on strategies acquired during participation in the FSU teacher preparation program. Our graduates are providing students with instruction that is affording them the opportunity to achieve learning as if there were afforded additional instructional time!

It is most important to note that the follow-up research that was conducted using graduates over a five year period of 2005-2010 reveled that students who complete the mathematics education program at FSU have a statistically significant and positive impact on the learning of the children in their classroom. FSU is one of two UNC institutions, and the one with the greatest impact score, that document this powerful, positive result! FSU School of Education and its teacher preparation programs continue to contribute to closing the achievement gap, specifically in the STEM areas.

School of Education Welcomes New Faculty Dr. Gail Thompson, Professor, Wachovia, a Wells Fargo Company, Endowed Chair of Education Dr. Tawannah Allen, Associate Professor, Director, Ed.D. Program, Department of Educational Leadership Dr. Catherine Barrett, Assistant Professor, Department of Middle Grades, Secondary, and Specialized Subjects Ms. Nora Lee, Instructor, Director of Early Childhood Learning Center

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School of Education

Featured Faculty Dr. Kelly Charles

D

r. Kelly Charles, Assistant Professor in the Department of Middle Grades, Secondary, and Special Education, is currently the Assessment Coordinator for the School of Education and the Director of the Office of School Services. She is a K-16 educator with over 20 years of classroom and administrative experience in public, private, charter, and postsecondary institutions. She holds a bachelors degree in Teacher Education from Methodist University, master’s degrees in both Special Education and School Administration from Fayetteville State University, and a Ph.D. in Higher Education from Morgan State University. Dr. Charles served as Principal of an urban Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) academy in Baltimore, Maryland as well as Program Coordinator of a multi-site 21st Century Community Learning Center in Spring Lake, North Carolina supervising elementary, middle and adult learners in academic, recreational and social activities.

Further, she served as an educational consultant for the public charter schools movement in the greater Washington, D.C. area and has taught adult literacy and compensatory education classes, special education P-12, and homebound instruction in rural and urban communities.

Award, which is offered to faculty based on student nomination. She serves as chair of numerous school-wide committees and works with community agencies to promote quality living and learning opportunities for students with exceptional learning needs, such as The Autism Society and the Arc of Cumberland County. As the Assessment Coordinator, she is primarily responsible for the successful implementation of the school’s assessment system that collects and analyzes data on applicant qualifications, candidate and graduate performance, and unit operations. Her recent publications include: Charles, K., Charles, C., Nworie, J. (2011).

Engaging Higher Education Faculty in Innovative Professional Development in Teaching and Learning. International Journal of University Teaching and Faculty Development Journals/Nova Science Publishers, Inc., 1(3); Pitre, A., Jackson, R., Charles, K. (2010). Educational Leaders and Multicultural Education: Critical Race Theory and Anti-Racist Perspectives in Education.

Lanham, MD: University Press of America, Inc.; Charles, K., Hicks, T., Pitre, A. (2011). Work book to Accompany ‘The Educational Lockout of African Americans in Prince Edward County, VA’. Lanham, MD: University Press of America, Inc..

Dr. Charles’ areas of research include male students’ locus of control, self-efficacy and intelligence, learning strategies and motivation for special needs students, as well as differentiated instruction and small learning communities in K-16 settings. Dr. Charles is the recipient of the 2010 Wynton H. Hadley Excellence in Teaching

Recent conference presentations include, “Inclusion with a Technology Infusion,” Excellence in Teaching Institute, Fayetteville, NC (April 8, 2011); “Institutional Effectiveness: Closing the Loop,” 11th Annual Assessment Conference, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas. (February 22, 2011).

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F a y ette v i l l e

S tate

U n i v e r sit y

“Proud To Be”

By Arthur G. Affleck, JD

A

fter many surveys, focus groups, conference calls and numerous meetings with FSU students, faculty, staff, board members and friends, we have adopted a new tagline and added a new logo. We have also developed a new positioning statement for the university. The new positioning statement, which is consistent with our mission statement, reads as follows: “Fayetteville State University is a public university rooted in history and driven forward by a commitment to positive, global change. A place for exploration and transformation, FSU is dedicated to providing its diverse student body with a comprehensive and collaborative academic experience that encourages both ideas and action. It is a community rich with pride and academic achievement and serves as a beacon for those looking to make a difference. A pillar of the University of North Carolina system, FSU promotes the educational, social, cultural, and economic betterment of the Fayetteville community as well as the southeastern and greater North Carolina region.” While a positioning statement like a vision statement is often forward looking and aspirational, the entries in this current issue of the FS&U will show that we are doing many of the things alluded to in this statement.

Our new tagline is “Proud to be.” How do you define pride: Achievement? Perseverance? Honor? At Fayetteville State University, pride is all of these things and more. Pride is the truth that guides us as a community and drives us as individuals. It is our legacy and our compass as we strive to be extraordinary. This is a university of action and accomplishment. And we are proud to be.

We are proud of our students who understand that their competition is not local or even national, it is global. So, they are doing their best to get ready for their careers and the world. Many of our students are taking advantage of travel abroad programs—especially to China. In this issue you will read about recent FSU graduate Kimberly Anderson who has spent the last year in China and who has a scholarship to stay and pursue a Master’s degree. FSU students are working to secure internships, summer jobs and many are going on to graduate and professional school. They also continue to gain recognition for their academic prowess. FSU students excelled again during the OFC Ventures Challenge competition in Atlanta. They won first place in the business plan competition and third place over all. Ebony Joyner was selected as the Thurgood Marshall College Fund Scholar of the month for July. SGA President, Jermaine Pittman, spent the summer doing an internship in Albuquerque, New Mexico and he is being heavily recruited by a number of companies for full-time employment when he graduates. And there are many other stories that I can share that justify the pride we feel in our students and their accomplishments.

We are proud of our faculty who are doing exceptional work in the classroom while also doing important research. Their challenge and opportunity is to teach and develop students who arrive with high motivation and excellent academic

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credentials and at the same time to teach students with less drive and less preparation. Yet, we had our largest graduating class in May and we are working hard to recruit and to graduate even more deserving students. Many faculty are also involved the newly established Center for Defense and Homeland Security. As you will read in the article written by Dr. Curtis Charles, they will be working to enhance our services to Fort Bragg, to build our STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) capacity, conduct more STEM related research and to secure increased funding from federal and state agencies to support this important work. For these and other reasons we could site, we are proud of the FSU faculty.

We are proud of our staff. They are the glue that holds it all together. I heard a recorded speech by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in which he recounted the experience of taking a flight. He noted that prior to boarding the plane, he saw many workers attending to the plane. They were refueling, loading luggage, checking tires, wings, the engines etc. Other workers were cleaning the plane and loading supplies for the crew and the passengers. He was reminded that, while the Captain is very important, they must rely on dozens of workers to do their jobs before he could have a successful flight. Like Dr. King, we should acknowledge that the staff members, all over the FSU campus, make it possible for us to have the successes that we are pleased to report each year. However, they don’t often get recognized. Please let the staff know that we are proud of them and the important contributions they make to support our students, faculty and administrators.

We are proud of our administration, led by Chancellor James A. Anderson. Under Chancellor Anderson’s leadership, FSU’s Nursing program has been reinstated, the university received a clean fiscal audit, a new science and technology building is under construction and a new 300-plus bed residence hall is due to be built over the next 12 months. Chancellor Anderson has also indicated to the Board of Trustees that we are in the planning phase of a major capital campaign. He is doing everything he can to offset the cuts from the state budget with efficiency, frugality and increased fundraising.

We are proud of our alumni and friends who continue to increase their support of Fayetteville State University. By the end of the last fiscal year, we achieved a milestone. We had more alumni donors than any time in our history. Another reason to be proud!

On a personal note, I am proud to have had the opportunity to be a part of the Bronco family. I want to publically thank Chancellor Anderson, my colleagues on the Cabinet, and the many colleagues with whom I had the pleasure of working with during the last two years for their support. I especially want to thank every member of the staff in Institutional Advancement for their service to FSU and for their support of my efforts to move our division from ordinary to extraordinary. Keep the Faith!

Trustee Spotlight:

Juanita Pruitt Pilgrim S

he is a community servant, devoted wife, and loving grandmother. FSU Trustee Juanita Pilgrim is all of those and then some, and even though she has retired as Deputy County Manager for Cumberland County, time is something she has very little of these days. Why? Her work on local and state boards and taking care of her family keeps her busy.

Where are you originally from? Boston, Massachusetts How did you end up in North Carolina? Sam Jones came to Boston from North Carolina to play with the Boston Celtics.

He and I met through my brother. Sam is a graduate of North Carolina Central University (formerly North Carolina College) and he recommended that I apply for admission. I was working full time at the telephone company. He recruited several students. I entered NCCU January 1960 and received my Bachelor of Science degree in 1964 in business/biology with a minor in education and Master of Science in business/ education in 1965.

What do you remember most about college? Friends, students and instructors. I still see them from time to time. I still remember one of my favorite instructors, Mrs. Julia Harris, an English professor. She was a wonderful lady and she made the English lectures very special.

What are you enjoying most about retirement? Having time to do some of the things that I need to do. Having time to spend with my mother who is 97 years old, and children and grandchildren. Having the opportunity to choose what to do.

Traveling as often as possible.

What do you miss most about going to work each day? I miss the people I had the opportunity to work with, and the interaction I had with the citizens of Cumberland County. I loved my work and enjoyed working and finding ways to help others.

What is the latest book that you have read? THE HELP, by Kathryn Stockett and BETRAYED, by Suzetta Perkins Tell us about your family: husband, children and grandchildren: Husband: James J. Pilgrim, Jr., DDS, FICD, Retired Colonel U. S. Army – 30 years; Retired from Fayetteville Technical Community College, chair of Dental Program, served as Acting Dean of School of Health Sciences, FTCC. He currently provides services to local dentists. Married 46 years on August 14. From Hendersonville, NC;

Daughter Jamese Pilgrim Kerns, lives in Atlanta with her husband and three children; son James Pilgrim, III, CRNA, lives in Fayetteville and works at Cape Fear Valley Health System. He has six children.

What civic/social organizations are you a member of?

Member of the Fayetteville Chapter of Links, Incorporated; Fayetteville State University Board of Trustees; N. C. State Employment Security Commission; Chair, Communicare, Inc.; member, St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church What do you enjoy most about serving on the FSU Board of Trustees? Interaction with Trustees, Administration, faculty and students. Seeing the students transform into mature adults. Very proud to see the number of young men and women graduating from college who perhaps would not have a chance if it were not for FSU. Complete the following statement: Chancellor James Anderson is … : Exactly what Fayetteville State University needs if we are serious about preparing our students for the 21st century with the tools to think, work, and participate in a global society.

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Trustee Spotlight:

Jerry Dean T

rustee Jerry Dean may not have been born in Fayetteville, but he calls this city home. In addition to living and working here, he gives of his time and resources by being actively in involved in the community and by helping others. But there’s more to this servant than his work in the community.

Where are you originally from? I am from an Army family. I was born in Salzburg, Austria in 1952. My dad was stationed in Germany and Austria.

Where did you go to college?

I graduated from Fayetteville Technical Community College and completed the Executive Institute at the Kenan-Flagler Business School at UNC in 1995.

What is your occupation? Senior Vice President/Market President for Wachovia How long have you been at your job? Worked for Wachovia for 34 years What do you enjoy most about your profession? Doing what’s right for our customers; advocating for their best financial interest.

What is the latest book you have read? Making Furniture in Preindustrial America

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? Hobby building reproduction 18th century furniture Tell us about your family? My wife Amy is from Fayetteville. She graduated from E.E. Smith High School in 1977. Dr. John Griffin was her principal. She graduated from UNC. Our son Curtis attended FSU for three semesters before transferring to ECU. He was in the AFROTC at FSU and now at ECU. Daughter Elizabeth is a freshman at Terry Sanford High School.

What civic/social organizations are you a member of?

Military Affairs Committee, Fayetteville Area Shag Association, and the Society of American Period Furniture Makers Other than the FSU Board of Trustees, do you serve on any other boards? Cape Fear Valley Health System Board of Trustees What do you enjoy most about serving on the FSU Board of Trustees? By bringing my skill set to this board, hopefully we have constructively improved and can sustain our performance over a longer term.

Complete the following statement. Chancellor James Anderson is … : A leader who demonstrates the ability to achieve excellent results through positive actions. I think what he and his team have achieved will be lasting results.

Three Trustees Join the FSU Board Fayetteville State University (FSU) announced recently the addition of three new members to the University’s Board of Trustees. All three trustees will serve until 2015 and were appointed by the University of North Carolina Board of Governors.

Dr. Edward E. Dickerson, a local physician, is owner and medical director of Cape Fear Aesthetics in Fayetteville.

He received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry from West Virginia State College in Institute, West Virginia, and his medical degree from Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta.

Retired United States Army Col. Donald Porter serves as the Executive Director of the Raeford/Hoke County Economic Development Commission. A native of Portsmouth, Virginia, Porter is a graduate of Norfolk State University with a degree in military science. He also received a Bachelor of General Studies Degree in Recreational Services from 12

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the University of Nebraska at Omaha, a Master of Arts Degree in Human Resources Development from Webster University, and completed the Economic Development Course at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Vedas Neal is Immediate Past President of the FSU National Alumni Association.

A native of Camden, New Jersey and currently residing in Elm City, North Carolina, Neal served with the Camden Board of Education in the Camden, New Jersey School System where she retired as Director/Principal of Adult, Continuing and Community Education Programs in 2003. She received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education from FSU, and a Master of Arts Degree in Philosophical and Sociological Foundations of Education from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey.

FSU Wins National Awards

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irtually every industry has a process for honoring professionals who have turned in outstanding performances or have made lasting contributions.

The Grammys honor musicians. The Tonys salute those on the stage, and the Emmys recognize those on the movie screens and on daytime television.

Attending the New Orleans conference to accept the awards were (L-R) Jeffery M. Womble, Director of Public Relations; Wendy Lowery, Associate Vice Chancellor for Development; Arthur G. Affleck, Vice Chancellor for Institutional Advancement; Michaela Brown, Director of Alumni Affairs; and Ben C. Minter, Director of Marketing and Special Events.

Those who work in Institutional Advancement at colleges and universities have their professional network that supports those in alumni relations, communications, development, and marketing. Earlier this year, that network recognized individuals and schools for their successes and products.

Fayetteville State University’s (FSU) Division of Institutional Advancement was among the honorees.

The Council for Advancement and Support Education (CASE) honored FSU’s Division of Institutional Advancement during its combined District III and IV conference in New Orleans.

District III, of which FSU is a member, consists of colleges and universities from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. FSU won two awards – an Award of Excellence for the Chancellor’s 2010 CIAA Luncheon Featuring Tom Joyner, and the Special Merit Award for “Ovation!,” the 2010-11 performing and fine arts magazine. Even more significant is that FSU was competing against some of the largest schools in the country.

The Joyner event and “Ovation!” magazine were produced

by FSU’s Office of Marketing and Special Events. “These two awards are outstanding examples of what collaborative efforts can achieve,” said Ben Minter, Director of Marketing and Special Events. “Both are the result of faculty, staff, student, alumni, friend, and supporter working together to achieve something great. This combined effort is the type of catalyst that continually moves us forward as a university destined for great things.”

In their comments, the judges stated that “Ovation!” was one of their favorite publications. “We were rooting for this

underdog publication,” one of the judges noted. “This team accomplished a lot with a small budget. Well-designed objective led to a magazine that is executed right on target.”

Arthur Affleck, Vice Chancellor for Institutional Advancement, said winning the awards demonstrate FSU’s commitment to producing quality publications and programs that reflect two of the university’s strategic priorities of making the institution an intellectual and cultural center and practicing fiscal resourcefulness. “We want to make certain we produce publications and organize events that not only make the university, students, and alumni proud, but also are appealing to our peers in the advancement industry,” Affleck said. “We think both of these awards demonstrate we are doing just that, and to be honored by those our industry who have expertise in these areas is truly an honor.”

Founded in 1974 as a result of a merger between the American Alumni Council and the American College Public Relations Association, CASE is an international association of educational institutions. It helps its members build stronger relationships with their alumni and donors, raise funds for campus projects, produce recruitment materials, market their institutions to prospective students, diversify the profession, and foster public support of education. Its membership includes more than 3,400 colleges and universities, primary and secondary independent and international schools, and nonprofit organizations in 68 countries.

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An Extreme Day

By Kimberly Durden – WFSS 91.9 FM Radio

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hursday, July 21, 2011 marked an historic moment in Fayetteville, and public radio station WFSS 91.9FM was represented among the crowd of media all geared up to visit 120 Langdon Street and be on hand for the famous cry of “move that bus!”

Since last week, Fayetteville has been all aflutter with activity and excitement over the Extreme Makeover Home Edition being in our town. Barbara Marshall, founder and director of Steps and Stages received the surprising visit from Extreme Makeover star Ty Pennington that her Jubilee House, a transitional home for homeless women veterans, would be receiving a very famous makeover.

Every show sends the makeover recipient and their family on a week’s vacation while construction of their new home is taking place, and Marshall and some of the home’s residents enjoyed a week of Disney World fun while hundreds of volunteers gave hundreds of hours toward creating a dream home for the program that is near and dear to Marshall’s heart.

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So July 21 was an exciting day. Barbara Marshall and her family had returned and they would soon see their new house.

At noon, the media were transported to the site directly across the street from the house, and each of us quickly set up, finding the best spot for audio, video and photos. Many were tweeting, several had iPads and took pictures and immediately sent them back to their stations. Live remotes, live call-ins, I heard it all. WFSS was able to speak with several of the EMHE volunteers and many of the spectators.

The outpouring of goodwill and compassion was evident; in fact, that was what was most impressive about the day, in spite of the oppressive and raging high temperatures which soared to about 104 degrees and the unrelenting sunshine. It could have been a recipe for anger and frustration, but none of that took place. People generously looked out for one another whether they knew them or not; making sure that the elderly had water. In fact, making sure that anyone got water that needed it. If you looked hot, a stranger might fan you with

a USO fan, hundreds of which were being passed out by volunteers.

Matthew Kirby, Fayetteville resident, had been volunteering on the site since Tuesday. He remarked that it was a great opportunity to meet new people, but that the work was first on everyone’s minds. He summed up the experience in this way: “Service to the community. Because it’s all about the people.”

Admittedly, much of the crowd, while happy for Marshall, were anticipating seeing the nation’s First Lady, Michelle Obama, who would be at the house to complete a special project for the Jubilee House and for Marshall. First Lady Obama and Dr. Jill Biden, wife of Vice-President Joe Biden, are the founders and spokespersons for ‘Joining Forces’ – a national initiative to mobilize all sectors of society to give our service members and their families opportunities and support.

Mrs. Obama came to show her support for the Steps and Stages program and the Jubilee House.

Audrey Culbreth, of Roseboro, NC, owns a consignment shop in Roseboro, but she closed the store to be in Fayetteville to witness this occasion and to catch a glimpse of First Lady Michelle Obama. My first meeting with her was when she tapped me on the shoulder and asked, breathlessly, if she could sit down. I immediately jumped off the box where I’d found a seat and let her sit, sensing that she was feeling faint and overwhelmed by the heat. I poured water on a cloth and gave it to her to put on her forehead and neck. When someone put a bag of ice in the media area, I put ice in her cloth and brought it to her.

She thanked me profusely, but in the bustle of still trying to get those important pictures and the opportunity to record some precious audio, I eventually moved away from where she sat.

About two hours later, and just after Mrs. Obama and Mrs. Marshall and all of the residents entered the house, I looked over to see this same lady sitting there only now she had a huge smile on her face. She was a picture subject waiting to be photographed, that’s for sure.

Beaming for the cameras of several stations that had caught her dazzling smile, she said that the First Lady had kissed her on the cheek and that she had even held her handkerchief.

“The Secret Service man said, ‘No don’t touch that!’, but she (Michelle Obama) reached out and grabbed it anyway.”

Culbreth couldn’t contain her excitement. “This handkerchief

belonged to my mother, Mae Buie, and I’m gonna frame it.” She waved the embroidered white square with soft green trim and held it to her face. “My mother would have loved knowing that the first African American First Lady had held this handkerchief.” Then Audrey Culbreth didn’t speak. No one asked her any questions. Her sparkling eyes held tears of joy. I had to quickly look away. I think she expressed a sentiment that many felt on Thursday.

But the day definitely belonged to the Jubilee House and all who now call it home. The inside tour took about fortyfive minutes, yet the crowds waited patiently. When Barbara Marshall and her family came out, they were all smiles.

Mrs. Obama remained inside with two armed services personnel for about thirty minutes more. It is supposed that a special interview took place, though the media was not informed of what was happening. Cameras snapped madly when she came out, beautiful in her green and blue sleeveless dress and cheerful blue flats.

“How do you like the house, Barbara?” someone shouted from across the street.

“I more than love it!” she called back.

“What time is dinner on Sunday?” one volunteer quickly threw back. “I’ll cook!”

No answer came back on that one. But I think they need time to get accustomed to their new home and probably remember where the kitchen is after the grand tour.

The work of Steps and Stages and the Jubilee House will go on. Women will come to the house seeking help, needing information. Life will get back to normal. The heroes of this week—the volunteers—will all go back to their daily routines.

What is indelible is the giving, and people truly gave from the bottom of their hearts.

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Nursing Program Resumes in the Fall

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uring its meeting on May 20, 2011, the North Carolina Board of Nursing granted initial approval for a generic Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing program at Fayetteville State University (FSU). Students will be admitted to begin prerequisite courses in the fall of 2011 and admitted into the upper division of the nursing curriculum beginning spring 2013.

“I am not only pleased for the many administrators, faculty, and staff who made this happen, but I am also especially happy for the dedicated and hard-working students who were instrumental in helping us achieve this milestone,” said FSU Chancellor James A. Anderson. “This action by the Board of Nursing signifies that they saw the effort and hard work that went into making our nursing program one of which we all can be proud. We firmly believe that we have the right tools and the right people in place to ensure continued viability of this needed and valuable resource.”

Chancellor Anderson announced in November that FSU nursing graduates had a 100 percent pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for the May 2010 graduating class. Of the 27 students taking the exam, all passed on the first attempt. Only six of the more than 70 nursing programs in the state had a perfect pass rate. In May 2009, 88 percent of the nursing graduates passed the exam on the first attempt. That 16

FS&U Magazine

brought FSU’s average for the two-year period to 94 percent.

The North Carolina Board of Nursing requires a pass rate of 83 percent over a three-year period.

In addition to the generic nursing degree, FSU will continue its Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program which began in 1992. The RN to BSN program offers nurses with an associate’s degree a seamless bridge to a baccalaureate education.

Both programs are operating in a new 37,000-square-foot nursing building. The facility has eight classrooms, two computer labs, three seminar rooms, general offices and study rooms for faculty and students. A state-of-the-art nursing simulation laboratory is also part of the $10 million project.

Nursing faculty occupies the third floor. The psychology department, one of the fastest growing academic units on campus, moved from the Lauretta Taylor Building and occupies the second floor. The department is in the early stages of adding a doctoral program. Also utilizing the building is the Department of World Languages and Cultures.

Teacher Assistant of the Year Changes Lives While Making History

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hile growing up in the town of Badin in Stanley County, Kamal Watkins was considered a hometown hero of sorts. He was a star on the football team and was celebrated and revered as one of North Stanley High School’s top athletes.

Watkins has not only made his hometown proud again, but also his alma mater Fayetteville State University. In April, he was chosen as Teacher Assistant of the Year for the State of North Carolina. The honor marks the first time an African-American male has received the award. For a year, he will serve as an advocate of teacher assistants by promoting the profession and encouraging others – especially other African-American males – that not only is education a noble job, but also one that is filled with rewards.

“I explain to as many African Americans that I come in contact with that are in the education field to give elementary education a try,” said Watkins, a kindergarten assistant at College Lakes Elementary School in Fayetteville.

“I let them know that this is truly where the kids need us and this is where they can truly make a difference in a child’s life.”

That’s something Watkins believes every day that he is in the classroom. When he arrives at school each morning, no matter what kind of evening he had the previous night or what has transpired before, he greets the children with his infectious smile. He said that gets them excited about doing their work.

After the morning greeting, he takes them to the cafeteria for breakfast. He strikes up conversations and lets them know that he is concerned about them, how they feel and what is going on in their lives. “I’m a firm believer in students don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care,” Watkins said. “Once you have the trust from your students, they will be eager and enthusiastic to do their best work all of the time for you, because kids love to know that they have done something to make you proud of them.”

The road to being selected Teacher Assistant of the Year was “tedious and rewarding” for Watkins. Before winning the state title, he was chosen for the honor by his colleagues at College Lakes. He then went on to compete for Cumberland County’s top assistant, which required an interview before a panel of judges, and putting together a portfolio that outlined his work with the school and community. After taking the county title, he competed for District IV honors. District IV comprises Bladen, Columbus, Cumberland, Harnett, Hoke, Lee, Moore, Montgomery, Richmond, Robeson, and Scotland counties. He had to do another portfolio and go through another grueling interview. Winning the District IV award earned Watkins the right to compete for the state title. North Carolina has 100 counties that are broken down to eight different districts.

Watkins competed against seven of the best Teacher Assistants in the state.

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Watkins recalls the day he received the call informing him that he won the honor. When he answered the phone, the voice on the other end started talking. “ ‘Hello, Mr. Watkins, I’m calling on behalf of the North Carolina Teacher Assistants, and I would like to congra…’ Before she got the word congratulate all the way out, I jumped on the floor yelling and screaming and thanking God. I finished long enough for her to finish her spiel and went right back on the floor, this time I went down on my knees and bowed my head and began to pray and continue to thank my God.” Even before Watkins won the Teacher of the Year Award, he knew that he had the gift to work with children, but it took others to convince him that he should be leading his own classroom. He already had a degree in English Language and Literature from FSU in 2005, and they told him that he could have his teaching certificate in just a couple of years. He listened to their advice. Watkins came back to FSU in 2009 and is on track to earn his teaching certificate in December. “I actually give most of the credit to going back to school to my family and friends, but more so my lead teacher, Jaime Haggerty,” Watkins said.

“Although a lot of people encouraged me to go back to school, she was very vital in my actually going back.

I’ve worked with her for the past four years and from day one she was constantly DEMANDING me to go back to school.”

Haggerty said she encouraged Watkins to go back to school because she sees how great he is as a teacher assistant and she wanted him to do what he loves to do and that’s educate children. “Everyday, I see the impact that he makes on our students, and so I encouraged him to go back and make an even bigger difference in the lives of students by becoming a teacher. Most of all, I encouraged him because everyday he ‘teaches’ alongside with me and he really does an outstanding job.”

Haggerty added that Watkins is a natural for the classroom. She said he has a good relationship with all of his students and they react to him well. “He understands the needs of children and he does all he can for them,” she said. “The students love him and always seem to establish a great relationship with him.”

Once he graduates, Watkins hopes to demonstrate to other African-American males how fulfilling teaching – especially at the elementary level – can be. “I think African-American males don’t realize how rewarding and fun it is to work in elementary schools,” Watkins said. “I think African-American males need someone to dispel the ideology that elementary school is for women, and be more open-minded to how important they are to students at the elementary age.”

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FSU Competes in Case Competition Total of $18,000 in scholarship dollars awarded Students from eight historically black colleges and universities returned to their campuses after a weekend of convincing business executives that they have what it takes to market their schools.

It was all part of a case competition, sponsored by Nationwide Insurance, requiring student teams to develop a marketing strategy encouraging school alumni to increase support of their specific university. The goal is for the participating universities to officially use these case studies to help generate additional alumni support.

Students representing North Carolina A&T earned $2,000 each in scholarship dollars, after winning 1st place in the Nationwide Insurance case competition. Winston- Salem State University earned 2nd place with each member receiving $1,500 in scholarships. The team winning third place was Fayetteville State University, with each member earning $1,000 in scholarships. The remainder of the participants received a $100 book voucher.

The competition, held on the campus of North Carolina A&T in Greensboro, included student teams from Winston-Salem State University, Shaw University, Johnson C. Smith University, North Carolina A&T University, Virginia Union State University, Virginia State University, Elizabeth City State University, and Fayetteville State University. Each university had one team composed of four students, with a faculty sponsor from their respective schools.

“Nationwide recognizes the importance of providing leadership opportunities for students who will soon enter the workforce,” said James Gaddy Jr., assistant vice president, Nationwide Insurance.

“This case competition helps to demonstrate our commitment to historically black colleges and universities and the students attending these institutions.” Students developed a complete business case and marketing strategy, and then presented their case before a panel of judges. The event was held Saturday, April 9, 2011 at North Carolina A&T University in Greensboro, NC.

“My China Experience”

By Kimberly Anderson

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his journey began in the fall of 2008 when I responded to an e-mail request for interested parties in the honors and Study Abroad Program to study in China.

I submitted my essay and application and was later informed that I was accepted to travel to China during the summer for a three week study abroad program.

I was ecstatic. We set out on our journey July 3, 2009. I did not know what to expect. My travel experience has been limited to the east coast and a weekend trip to the Bahamas. Never before have I traveled so far away from home and for such a long time. We were to spend two weeks in Shanghai and one week in Beijing. When we landed at the airport, I knew I was in for an experience of a lifetime.

The surroundings were similar to the United States but I could tell I was in a different country. We arrived at East China University of Science and Technology and it was beautiful, with lavish and peaceful landscapes. The university faculty, staff and students were very nice and very patient with our language barriers. I learned many things while visiting China. I learned a different language and a different culture, which then helped me review and appreciate my own and it opened my eyes morally. In Beijing, we had our own tour guide, and he was the best. He had so much knowledge of the country he loved dearly. The love the Chinese citizens had for their country again made me think about how I saw my own country. I know now that I appreciate the history that my country has, as well as the growth and progress it has made.

In today’s world, communication is important, and to be able to communicate is vital. When I traveled to China, I was able to learn the mechanics of Mandarin, the dialect that is mostly used in that country. I have learned something about education: once you have it no one can take it away from you, and only you have the power to use it to the best of your ability. Exploring this language intrigued me because their words are not formed of letters but characters. When I returned to the United States, I was inspired and determined to continue my studies in Mandarin to master this skill.

After this newfound interest, another opportunity arose for me to return to China. I was granted a scholarship to study Chinese and teach English part-time to freshmen students.

This gave me the opportunity to deeply embrace the culture.

My first visit to China was to a large city much like New York, but my recent experience allowed me to stay in a smaller city.

It also gave me the opportunity to learn about two cultures: Chinese and Mongolian.

I taught middle school level English to freshmen college students at Inner Mongolia Normal University. It seemed we were teaching each other at the same time. Of course, there was always the one who let you know they did not want to be there and couldn’t care less about studying English, but the other students made up for the one. I could relate

to them being fresh out of college myself. My students and other students at the university helped me learn the area and find things to do within the city. From shopping, bike rides, mountain climbing, all the way to KTV (karaoke). If I needed anything, they were there quick to help.

All the experiences were wonderful, but my favorite was experiencing the culture first hand. I have dined at restaurants where the wait staff was dressed with traditional attire and served authentic cuisine. I conversed with the local students and even made friends with my neighbors in the dorms from other countries, who then taught me some of their culture and I taught them mine. I have had traditional Russian meals, celebrated holidays and ceremonies from different parts of the world. I have had opportunities to visit markets and learn the art of haggling down prices while traveling throughout China. As I visited ancient cities, I greatly appreciated the architecture, especially with my art background. I have visited small towns and eaten with families and have gone to big cites and dined in fancy restaurants with businessmen.

Another thing I have also learned of my country is we have become desensitized to race. In China, there is mostly one race wherever you go and that is the Chinese race. In America, every corner you turn there are people of all different origins coming towards you. In China I was the immigrant and truly felt like a minority. Everywhere I went I received stares of interest and curiosity, and sometimes even attracted crowds.

Most had never before seen an African American. Most were intrigued, while others looked confused. I was rushed with realization. I realized that my great country had opened its doors to so many other cultures, backgrounds and races.

That is what makes the United States the great country that it is today. My journey to China opened my eyes so that I no longer take advantage of the diversity in my country, but appreciate it and try to learn as much as I can from each culture I encounter.

China’s culture and history is vast and deep, and when I visited during the summer I barely scratched the surface. That experience inspired me to apply for the scholarship to study for my master’s in Mongolia. Although I did not receive the scholarship for the master’s program at first, I did receive one to study Chinese culture and language in Inner Mongolia for a year, but I did not plan on stopping there. I planned to learn all I could so that I could reapply for the master’s program and study in China for four additional years. Who knew responding to one school-wide e-mail could open a whole new world for me and set my life on a different path that was never expected? All this is possible because of the support of my family and Fayetteville State University, and I am forever grateful.

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FSU Art Professor Had a

‘Hand’

in Park Monument

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hen the North Carolina Veteran’s Park opened July 4, Fayetteville State University art professor Soni Martin – pardon the pun – had a hand in one of the monuments displayed at the $15 million facility.

As the coordinator for the Casting of Hands across North Carolina, Martin’s task was to select a team of artists to cast the hands of 500 individuals from the 100 counties across North Carolina and develop the process from start to finish.

Selecting the team was easy, Martin said. “I needed seven other artists to assist me on the project. It was the summer of 2010 and I selected two FSU art majors’ students who were sculpture concentrations in the visual art degree program Aaron Wallace and Marcela Casals. I also selected Amanda Stephens, an FSU visual art alumnus (sculpture concentration) who is in graduate school at Western Carolina University,” she said.

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The remainder of Martin’s team included the following artists: colleague Dwight Smith at Fayetteville State University; Alexis Joyner, a sculptor and professor of art at Elizabeth City State University; Diane Hughes, a multimedia artist in Charlotte, North Carolina; and local craftsperson Jill Rhae Smith, who has a lot of professional experience in commercial concrete and could also assist me as needed on any part of the lengthy project.

Martin assigned the artistic team their counties to cover, and they practiced the processes in the art studio at Fayetteville State. Everyone’s task was to travel across North Carolina to their appointed counties and make molds of the hands of selected individuals: 100 of the molds would result in wax castings which were sent to Carolina Bronze Foundry to be cast in bronze for the Wall of Oath; 400 hands would be made as a mold and later cast by each artist as cement tile reliefs to be mounted on the 50 community columns in the park

“Most veterans were quiet and humble and would not voluntarily share their experiences, they were just happy to be having their hands cast and visiting with their friends; it was the veteran sitting next to someone that would tell me what had occurred to those around me,” Martin said.

(two counties to one column). Veterans selected for the project served in World War I, Korean War, Vietnam War, the Gulf War, Iraq and Afghanistan wars.

Each artist on the casting of hands project had so many stories to share about their experiences in each county.

“Most veterans were quiet and humble and would not voluntarily share their experiences, they were just happy to be having their hands cast and visiting with their friends; it was the veteran sitting next to someone that would tell me what had occurred to those around me,” Martin said.

Visitors to the park will see the remaining 400 casting of hands on the community columns in Community Plaza.

Each column has the name of the county adorned with the castings of four hands from veterans, their families, and residents in the county. (The County Columns are in order based on dates of incorporation into the state.)

In 2008, the North Carolina Legislature approved a bill to construct the North Carolina Veterans Park. Sal Musarra, the architect and visionary from Urban Resource Group, a Division of Kimley-Horn Associates, designed an environment that symbolically focuses on a veteran’s life before service, life during service and life after service.

Musarra’s vision has come to fruition with a park in downtown Fayetteville that consists of a visitors’ center, 7 water features, walking paths, and intensely exciting public art throughout the park. In Musarra’s words, “the North Carolina Veterans Park provides a place for meaningful reflection and inspiration in a community setting that is beautiful, bold, and unique to honor the lives, service, and pride of North Carolina veterans.”

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Largest Class in FSU History Receives Degrees

F

ayetteville State University (FSU) graduated its largest class in history with more than 570 graduates receiving degrees. The event was held May 7 in the Crown Coliseum. Speaker for the 144th Spring Commencement was Deputy U.S. Secretary of Education Antony Wilder Miller, who spoke in the absence of his boss, U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. Duncan became ill the day before commencement exercises and was unable to make the trip.

Duncan assured FSU Chancellor James A. Anderson that he would serve as speaker at a future FSU event.

Miller, however, stepped in and delivered a message that charged graduates to remember FSU and the education that it provided them. He told graduates to expect career paths with twists and turns and told them to be ready to adapt. He also told the class that it has an obligation to help improve education, whether through teaching, fundraising, mentoring or politics. “Take your education,” he said, “and pay it forward.”

In this role as Deputy U.S. Secretary of Education, Miller manages a broad range of operational, management and program functions. Prior to joining the Department in 2009, Miller was an operating partner with Silver Lake, a leading private equity firm. From 2003 to 2006, he was with LRN Corporation, a compliance software and eLearning company, where he was executive vice president of operations. Prior to LRN, he worked for 10 years at McKinsey & Company, where he was a partner specializing in growth strategies, operating performance improvement and restructuring for companies throughout the United States, Europe and Asia. Miller began 22

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his professional career with Delco Electronics, a subsidiary of GM Hughes Electronics, where he managed regional channel marketing.

In addition to his private-sector operating experience, Miller advised the Los Angeles Unified School District from 1997 to 2000, developing student achievement goals and strategies, aligning budgets and operating plans, and designing metrics and processes for overseeing district-wide performance. He undertook similar work with the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District in 2001. Through his service as an ex-officio member of the Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education Budget and Finance Committee in 2002–03, he deepened his understanding of state funding and school district budgeting matters.

Commencement also had a bit of history. Four graduates were named class valedictorian. Each had perfect 4.0 grade point averages.

Briana Murrell finished in two years after graduating from Cross Creek Early College High School on the FSU campus in 2009. Briana was valedictorian of the first graduating class at Cross Creek Early High School. She earned a degree in mass communications and plans to go to Syracuse University to get a master’s degree in journalism, which she might earn by the time she’s 21 years old. Her mother, Charmaine Murrell, also graduated with honors.

Charmaine Murrell said she and her daughter didn’t plan the dual graduation. She graduated from Fayetteville Technical Community College in 2006 and was initially a political

science major before changing to communications.

Kaodi Umerah completed her undergraduate studies in 3 ½ years.

She graduated from South View High School in 2008 and attended Terry Sanford High School in ninth through 11th grades. Kaodi was still completing classes at South View when she started at FSU in January 2008. She said she took extra classes her freshman year to be sure she would graduate a semester early. “It was a lot of work,” she said.

“Because I started early, I wanted to finish early.”

The other two valedictorians were roommates in the University Place Apartments at FSU. Amber Gray is from LaGrange, where she graduated from North Lenoir High School. Shenika Hinton is from Raleigh. She graduated from Garner Magnet High School.

Amber grew up at Pope Air Force Base, where her father served in the Air Force. She made a plan to get an A in each course she took, then executed it. “You can get an A in any class,” she said. “You just have to want it.”

Shenika said all the graduates in the suite where she and Amber live are honor graduates. She said she sometimes stayed up until 4 a.m. studying.

Salutatorian for the Class of 2011 was Kristy Mitchell. Kristy graduated from Seventy-First High School in Fayetteville . She enrolled as a first-time freshman in Summer Session II 2007.

She received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics with a minor in biology. She plans to attend graduate school at Wake Forest University.

In addition to the speaker, also in attendance were Mr. Johnny Taylor, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) in New York. Additionally, an 18-member delegation representing institutions from China were part of the ceremony. FSU has forged partnerships with five institutions making it the leading historically black university in the country in terms of establishing educational ties with China.

The institutions represented included: • East China University of Science and Technology • Beijing Foreign Studies University • Heibei Normal University • Inner Mongolia Normal University • Baotou Teachers’ College Portions of this story were printed with permission from The Fayetteville Observer.

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Staff Employee, Faculty Honored for Outstanding Work

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axine McFayden has a simple philosophy when it comes to her work as Administrative Assistant to the Dean of the School of Education. “Sometimes to get the mission accomplished, you might have to go beyond the call of duty, but that’s ok – your reward is at the end,” McFayden said.

If McFayden has anything to do with it, the end is not anywhere in sight, but the reward has already been bestowed.

McFayden was honored earlier this year as Fayetteville State University’s (FSU) Staff Employee of the Year. This marks the second time McFayden has received the award. In September 1997, she was honored by her peers.

McFayden has been a member of the FSU family for 27 years.

She began her tenure at the university in what was then the Office of General Studies. “I have been blessed to work with supervisors who were great, and the one that I have now is wonderful,” McFayden said.

Apparently, the adulation is mutual. It was her supervisor, School of Education Dean Dr. Leontye Lewis, who nominated McFayden for the award. Lewis said McFayden is a model of effective customer service practices and consistently meets the needs of those she serves. Lewis added that she consistently receives compliments on McFayden’s professionalism and positive demeanor. “She is always willing to lend a helping hand no matter how menial or complex the task to be performed, which is often above her job expectations,” Lewis said. “Ms. McFayden is a team player.”

That is evident in McFayden’s service to FSU. In addition to her daily duties, she has assisted the institution in many facets. She serves on several committees in the School of Education, has worked as an usher at Commencement, Fall Convocation, and Founders’ Day and currently serves on the Robing Committee for the aforementioned events.

Additionally, she is chair of the Band Luncheon Committee for the annual Homecoming Parade.

As a long-time member of the FSU family, McFayden knows what it takes to make an office run effectively and what it takes to get the job done. Her advice to new employees is that in an environment where you serve people from various walks of life, you must be professional at all times. “When you’ve had a bad day or when irate students come into your office, you still have to be kind, courteous, respectful, smile, and 24

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have patience. Most of all, you have to love what you do,” she said.

McFayden, however, isn’t the only FSU employee who has a knack for great on-the-job-performances. Two faculty members where recently honored for their work.

Dr. Shubo Han, an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Physics, was named FSU’s 2011-2012 Teacher of the Year. Dr. Han earned his Bachelor of Engineering degree from Hebei Institute of Chemical Technology, and master’s and doctoral degrees in chemistry from University of Science and Technology of China.

Additionally, he did post-doctorate work at California State University in Los Angeles. He came to FSU in 2004 as an assistant professor of chemistry and was promoted to the rank of associate professor in 2010.

Dr. Todd Frobish, an Associate Professor and Interim Chair of the Department of Communication, was honored with this year’s Board of Governors Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Established by the Board of Governors in 1994 to underscore the importance of teaching and to reward great teachers across the university, the awards are given annually to a tenured faculty member from each UNC campus. Recipients are nominated by special committees on their home campuses and selected by the Board of Governors Committee on Personnel and Tenure. Each winner receives a bronze medallion and cash award.

Frobish’s life-long approach to teaching and mentoring is a personal homage to the teachers that mentored him. As a youth, Dr. Frobish suffered from communication disorders including stuttering. It was this personal challenge that drew him to the field of Communications. In order to help him overcome his challenges, he not only entered speech competitions, but won them. As a professor, he has taught numerous public speakers and delights in his own professional opportunities for public speaking.

The Center for Defense and Homeland Security Part I of a Two-Part Series Dr. Curtis B. Charles Interim Executive Director

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he Center for Defense and Homeland Security (CDHS) at Fayetteville State University (FSU) is a new research and development initiative in support of the mitigation and recovery of natural and man-made catastrophic disasters, within the U.S. through strategic partnerships with industry associates, institutions of higher education, the Department of Defense (DOD), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and other federal, state, and local entities. The CDHS will be engaged in transformational education, research and the commercialization of emerging scientific technologies in areas critical to the national security of the U.S. such as cybersecurity; biological and chemical countermeasures, C4ISR, and infrastructure protection and disaster management.

CDHS Goals: In order to keep pace with the workforce demands of emerging technologies and to forecast and respond to the mitigation and recovery of natural and man-made catastrophic disasters, the CDHS scholars will join forces with academic and industry partners to enhance and develop programs and capabilities in scientific and engineering disciplines critical to the national security functions of the military. They will also develop and enhance human behavior modeling capabilities dedicated to the understanding of critical languages and cultures of local communities, as well as, foreign societies vital to the national security of the US and develop robust mentoring research opportunities for students, including female and underrepresented minorities, in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and/or Mathematics (STEM).

The goal is to prepare for jobs in the DoD, Homeland Security, Emergency Management, Intelligence, and for advanced studies.

The CDHS research and development activities will serve as a Homeland Security and Defense knowledge management portal for corporate and Industry partners, other HBCU’s, UNC institutions, and regional and national education partners.

Additionally, they will allow the Military, Defense, Homeland Security, and Intelligence industries to have access to FSU’s research equipment – in particular, the latest model of the high-powered “Electron Microprobe” – one of only two such instruments available for public investigation and located on a university campus.

Due to the decrease in state funding, as well as increase

sources of revenue for local governments as a result of the influx of new businesses related to the relocation of U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM) and U.S. Army Reserve Command (USARC) to Ft. Bragg, the commercialization of scientific technologies in areas critical to the national security of the U.S. will provide additional sources of revenue for the University.

Finally, the Center for Defense and Homeland Security, will contribute to the development of a more technically qualified 21st century STEM-rich workforce in disciplines critical to the national security functions of the U.S. As such, one goal of the Center is to serve as a starting point for public school students and teachers to learn more about the research focus areas, which include: Infrastructure Protection and Disaster Management, Chemical and Biological Countermeasures, Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR), and Cyber Security Systems.

As a part of the vision of the CDHS’ education and outreach arm, customized professional development workshops related to the focus areas will be offered through the School of Education, in partnership with select programs from the College of Arts and Sciences and the School of Business and Economics. These professional learning opportunities for STEM teachers will prescriptively tie the CDHS research with the National Core Curriculum Standards in Math and Language Arts/Science. To show increased relevancy of concepts, improvement of the academic preparation of 6th – 12th grade students for math - and science-related studies Spring/Summer 2011

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in the 21st century, prospective CDHS public school outreach projects will include Focus Area Externships (middleand high-school STEM teachers).

Projects will also include emphasis on collaborative teamwork, critical thinking, global perspectives, and multi-media communication, and encouragement of students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math. Included also will be Curriculum Enhancement to offer lesson plans for public school teachers in grades 3 through 12. These lesson plans will be aligned to the Common Core Standards. Mentors or CDHS experts will be available for consultation on an as-needed basis through the Office of School Services in the School of Education.

These individuals will provide out-of-school experiences for girls, underserved minorities and low socio-economic-status (SES) students which will drive elementary, middle and high school students towards math, technology, science, and engineering studies. Pupils will engage in robotics and similar hands-on investigations aligned to the CDHS focused areas.

These studies will be designed to foster a sense of curiosity, research, exploration and accomplishment.

The School of Education will support each of the CDHS focus areas in three ways: (1) Developing Effective Teaching Strategies & Professional Development for CDHS, (2) Creating & Modeling Lesson Plans to support 3rd-12th Grade Curriculum related to CDHS, and (3) Directing Pre-service Teacher Research in areas related to CDHS. Focus areas will include Professional Development and the development of research experiences and tools that prepare and support public school teachers, professional development professionals, and public school administrators in STEM areas related to (1) Infrastructure Protection and Disaster Management, (2) Chemical and Biological Countermeasures, (3) Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR), and (4) Cyber Security Systems.

The nucleus of the CDHS is its team of interdisciplinary research scholars that represent disciplines in computer science and mathematics, sociology, biological sciences, chemistry and physics, geography/GIS, and criminal justice.

Other disciplines include social work, middle grades, secondary and special education, management information systems, finance, economics, entrepreneurship & marketing/ MBA, emergency management, and budgeting. The CDHS team of interdisciplinary research scholars is actively building research capacity in Infrastructure Protection & Disaster Management; Chemical & Biological Countermeasures; and Command Control & Interoperability.

Part II of this article will follow in the next issue of FS&U Magazine and will focus on the details of work in the following strategic areas:

CDHS RESEARCH FOCUS AREAS  Infrastructure Protection & Disaster Management  Cyber Security Systems  C4ISR – Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance  Chemical and Biological Countermeasures

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Spring 2011

OpenHouse o

n Saturday March 26th, the campus of Fayetteville State University was buzzing with excitement and Bronco Pride! On this day, Fayetteville State University (FSU) hosted the 2011 Spring Open House for prospective students, their families, and the residents of southeastern North Carolina and beyond. We welcomed the nearly 1000 guests to explore every facet of FSU. Among other things, guests had the opportunity to discover the exciting array of educational opportunities and resources at FSU.  The Spring Open House provided a well-versed campus experience for prospective students and their families that educated, motivated and showcased the academic excellence, stellar faculty, well-rounded student body, experiential offerings, and overall pride of Fayetteville State University. Through a collaborative effort with the Academic Affairs office, the day’s activities included departmental visitations as well as an academic and organization fair. One outstanding departmental presentation was coordinated by the Department of World Languages and Cultures. Prospective students were engaged in an interactive conversation/presentation with faculty and students from China via the World Wide Web. Other highlighted events included performances by the FSU Concert Choir, cheerleaders, and band. Students had the opportunity to learn more about the true FSU experience through student panels tailored individually for females, males, and student-athletes. Also, parents had the opportunity to find out more about the services available to their students by attending Parent Panel discussions on Financial Aid, University College, Residence Life, Student Health Services, and Campus Police & Public Safety.

Late in the afternoon once the doors were closed and the last family exited the campus, the Open House Committee was glad to say the Spring 2011 Open House was a success. Moreover, the Committee is excited about offering an even bigger and brighter experience for Open House next year!

To the FSU family, alumni, friends, and prospective students, we look forward to you seeing you in March 2012!

Bronco Pride!

Spring/Summer 2011

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New Miss FSU Crowned Pageant Takes Audience Back in Time

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T

he 20th Miss Fayetteville State University Scholarship Pageant, “Blue Revue,” was held on Saturday, April 16, 2011. Once again, this time-honored tradition proved to be the highlight of spring activities on campus. The theme reflected a 1950’s television dance show, “Blue Revue”, which showcased Miss Fayetteville State University 20102011, Kelsey McRae; Mr. FSU 2010-2011, Troy Pickens and the FSU Royal Court. The audience went wild for Mr. Pickens’ vocal rendition of R. Kelly’s “A Woman’s Love” which paid tribute to our Alma Mater, FSU. The pageant featured six lovely contestants: Michele Lowry, Jasmine McKoy, Tanesha Slaughter, Jamesia Bethea, Tatianna Mosley and Fachon Harris. To be eligible to compete, each contestant must possess a high scholastic average and be in good standing with the university. The contestants competed in six categories: interview, athletic wear, talent, on-stage knowledge and awareness, formal wear, and the student vote.

At the conclusion of the evening, Tatianna Mosley, a rising junior political science major from Charlotte, North Carolina was crowned Miss Fayetteville State University 2011-2012. Tatianna also received the Miss Congeniality Award and the Olivia Chavis Best Evening Gown Award.

Jasmine McKoy received the Maceo Smith Best Talent Award and was first runner-up. Fachon Harris placed as second runner-up.

University. Eleven of the distinguished queens were on-hand to be honored: Dr. Annie McCullough Chavis, Miss FSU 1968-1969; Attorney Jimonique Simpson Rodgers, Miss FSU 1991-1992; Dr. Genevieve Faison , Miss FSU 1992-1993; Mrs. Gemette Cox McEachern, Miss FSU 1999-2000; Ms. LaSherrie Draughon, Miss FSU 2003-2004; Attorney Titichia Mitchell, Miss FSU 2004-2005; Ms. Kaity Parson, Miss FSU 20052006; Ms. Chimere Collins, Miss FSU 2007-2008; Ms. Lisa Harris, Miss FSU 2007-2008; Ms. Brittany Jackson, Miss FSU 2009-2010; and Ms. Kelsey McRae, Miss FSU 2010-2011.

Men of Distinction, an FSU Musical Ensemble, serenaded the returning queens through the evening with famous songs by the world renowned Temptations: “The Way You Do the Things You Do” and “My Girl”. The ensemble represents the rich heritage of male groups from the 1950s to the present and is comprised of Mr. FSU, Troy Pickens, Shamar Farley, Zacharias Ingram, and Tyson McDowell.

In celebration of the 20th Pageant, throughout the evening video clips documenting moments in Miss FSU Pageant History which were narrated

by Mrs. Olivia Chavis, former Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and pageant originator, were presented. The pageant also featured a special pictorial tribute to all of the former campus queens who reigned as Miss Fayetteville State Spring/Summer 2011

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FSU Student Speaks Before National Press Club Picture this:

Y

ou are standing behind a podium in a room filled to capacity. Among those seated are college and university presidents and chancellors from many of the nation’s historically black colleges and universities, high-powered politicians, scholars, and media from across the country. In just a few seconds a complete hush falls over the room. All eyes are on you. The next sound the audience will hear will be your voice.

Such a scenario is enough to make even the most seasoned speaker nervous, but imagine if you are a college student who, while has experienced talking in front of large crowds, has never been presented with an opportunity of this magnitude.

The panel dealt with issues surrounding the phenomenon of the HBCU, particularly in response to an assertion made by Wall Street Journal Editor Jason Riley. Riley contended that the HBCU has evolved into an inferior position relative to majority institutions. This assertion was backed by Economist Dr. Richard Vedder of Ohio University, who was also on the panel speaking on his assertion.

“The experience was very interesting and exciting,” Williams said. “I was told that the panel would have a roundtablediscussion sort of atmosphere, but when it was time to start, I soon found out that it was actually a panel consisting of a series of individual speeches from a number of journalists and college presidents.”

Among the panel members were Marcus Brauchli (The Washington Post), David Wilson (President, Morgan State University), Wayne Watson (President, Chicago State University), and Beverly Hogan (President, Tugaloo College).

The panelists made their arguments, and then it came time for Williams to make his. He was called to the podium by NAFEO President Attorney Leslie Baskerville.

“I gave my speech that I had honestly just thrown together while sitting at the podium during the panel,” Williams said. “It was almost entirely improvised as I had anticipated a different sort of environment.”

Environment aside, Williams delivered his message. At the end was resounding applause from the entire audience.

Williams believes it was his position, his assertions, and the audience’s appreciation of his position as a student and product of an HBCU that won over the audience. His contention was that the HBCU was/is not only necessary, but vital for a number of reasons. He argued against the assertions made by Riley and Vedder, who used economics in an attempt to justify the notion that the HBCU was inferior within a number of realms.

Fayetteville State University (FSU) student Reynauld Williams can relate.

In April, Williams, a senior business administration major, testified before the National Press Club in support of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and predominantly black institutions (PDI). Williams was asked by the National Association for Equation Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO) to speak on a panel consisting of a number of HBCU presidents and chancellors. Williams, the lone student on the panel, was selected based on his credentials and his past experiences with speaking across the country on a variety of topics.

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“I gave personal testimony from a student’s perspective and attributed much of my success as a student to advantages and nurturing environments associated with the HBCU,” Williams said.

Williams’ remarks were so impressive, Congressman G.K Butterfield of the First Congressional District of North Carolina, presented him with a citation. In his citation, Butterfield cited Williams as “the consummate example of the positive effects HBCUs have on the African American community, and reinforces the critical importance of maintaining support for these institutions of higher education.”

Concert Choir Selected to Perform in Carnegie Hall

W

hen someone posed the question: “How does one get to Carnegie Hall?”, the response was simple.

“Practice, practice, practice.”

Well, it is apparent the Fayetteville State University Concert Choir heeded that advice because they have been selected to present a 30-minute solo performance on the historic stage of famed Carnegie Hall in New York. The choir, under the direction of Denise Payton, Director of Choral Activities at FSU, was selected for the performance after a demo recording of the group was submitted to Carnegie Hall officials. It is believed that this is the first time a FSU Concert Choir has performed on the world-famous Carnegie Hall stage.

Being selected to perform at the venue solidifies FSU’s Concert Choir as a premiere ensemble, Payton said. “I made a CD of three selections of the Concert Choir, and when they heard them, they told me that the choir was fabulous and would like to offer me 30-minutes on the concert stage.”

In addition to the 30-minute performance, the concert format will consist of a masterwork with one of the famous Carnegie conductors combined with other musicians for the second half of the program. The piece performed at that time will not be known until the concert is confirmed.

and lodging at a five-star hotel. “Our sponsor, MidAmerica Productions, has offered to assist us any way possible to help us meet our goal,” Payton said. “With these economic times, it is difficult.”

Difficult, but not impossible if the FSU family, alumni, and community support the endeavor. Tax deductible donations for the trip can be made in the name of the FSU Concert Choir through the FSU Foundation. “I am in the process of setting performances with our alumni chapters to help in this quest.

The fourth Sunday in September, we will be in concert in Goldsboro with the Gold/Wayne Alumni Chapter,” Payton said.

Since 1996, the FSU Concert Choir has performed nationally and internationally including concerts in Paris, Belgium, Vancouver, British Columbia, a gala concert at Constitution Hall in Washington, DC, and on regional television. The choir performs for major university events, churches, and civic functions and has produced three compact discs. The choir’s repertoire consists of anthems, spirituals, gospels and major choral works accompanied with orchestra. Membership is open to all majors through audition.

The concert choir was offered a chance to perform at Carnegie in March 2011, but budget constraints put the invitation on hold. She said her students were disappointed they could not make the trip, but vowed if another invitation was extended, they would be willing to do what was necessary to make the trip happen. “They are simply wonderful to work with,” Payton said of her choir members.

For more than a century, Carnegie Hall has set the standard for excellence in performance. Its walls have echoed with applause for the world’s outstanding classical artists, as they have for the greatest popular musicians of our time and for the many prominent dancers, politicians, authors, and crusaders who have appeared on its stage. From Gustav Mahler to Liza Minnelli, from John Philip Sousa to Leopold Stokowski, from Fats Waller to Woodrow Wilson, and from Ignace Jan Paderewski to Luciano Pavarotti, Carnegie Hall has been host to them all.

Choir members are working feverishly to raise funds for the trip scheduled for March 2012. Payton estimates it will cost around $62,000. The cost covers transportation, some sightseeing,

Donations for the choir can be forwarded to: FSU Concert Choir, FSU Foundation, 1200 Murchison Road, Fayetteville, N.C. 28301 or by calling (910) 672-2422.

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Operation Smooth Move 2011

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Entrepreneur Students Demonstrate Winning Ways

F

ayetteville State University (FSU) was awarded “Best Written Business Plan” and placed third at the Opportunity Funding Corporation (OFC) – Innovation and Entrepreneurship Annual Business Plan Competition for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) on April 16th in Atlanta, Ga. The FSU team, who competed against 21 teams from across the country and the Caribbean, was awarded a $3,000 cash prize.

Team members were Shanee Pratt, Deborah Molina-Arroyo, Brittany Harrison, and Richard Harris. The company, Lost to Found Technologies, Inc. (LTF), has a patent-pending device using a Global Positioning System, Radio-Frequency Identification, and a smart phone application to allow owners to easily locate lost items in real-time. Deborah Molina-Arroyo, team member and FSU graduating senior, is the inventor and patent holder.

SIFE Team members included Trent Whitfield, Jordan Scruggs, Amber Gray, and Carlos Swann.

OFC began in 1970 when Dr. Mohammad Bhuiyan, an endowed professor of entrepreneurship and director of the Center for Entrepreneurship at FSU, joined an effort that sought to tackle economic disparities between Whites and other ethnic groups.

Bhuiyan, who at the time taught management at Clark Atlanta University’s School of Business Administration, established the OFC Venture Challenge to help HBCUs develop a comprehensive entrepreneurship curriculum. The annual competition held in Atlanta challenges HBCU students to hone their skills by developing sustainable business ventures. Just seven HBCUs participated in the first venture challenge, but about 40 schools participate today.

When Bhuiyan got the idea for establishing the OFC Venture Challenge, he looked to the Moot Corp Competition, the business-focused contest and conference that began in the 1980s. It takes place annually at the University of Texas at Austin and attracts students from around the world.

It was recently renamed as the Venture Labs Investment Competition.

The OFC Venture Challenge competition allows students to have access to some of the nation’s top business leaders. For some, it provides a stepping stone to employment with OFC’s top sponsors, including Wal-Mart, Sam’s Club, OfficeMax and UPS. Another team under the direction of Bhuiyan turned in an outstanding performance at a recent competition. A student team from FSU’s School of Business and Economics competed in the Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) Regional Competition in Atlanta and was awarded first-place. The team received a $1,000 cash prize and will advance to compete in

the National SIFE Championship in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The SIFE competition consists of challenging, team-oriented projects that provide service to businesses and the local community. The team pursued three projects and was awarded $2,700 in grant money: • Campbell Soup’s “Let’s Can Hunger Challenge”: The first annual Fayetteville Can-Do Competition netted $635 and 4,595 pounds of canned goods which were raised largely through collaboration among FSU, the Downtown Alliance, Jack Britt High School, Seventy-First High School and Massey Hill Classical High School. The food and money were donated to The Second Harvest Food Bank of Fayetteville. FSU’s SIFE team was one of 152 schools nationwide to receive $500 in funding from Campbell.

• Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation Community Improvement Challenge: The SIFE team will renovate a runaway and homeless teenager recourse center in Cumberland County. The team was one of 50 teams nationwide to receive$1,200 in grant funding from Lowe’s.

• Sam’s Club Environmental and Sustainability Challenge: The SIFE team assisted Sherefe’s Mediterranean Grill in becoming the first Cumberland County restaurant to be awarded the “Green Business” Certification by Sustainable Sandhills. The team was one of 200 teams nationwide to receive $1,000 in grant funding by Sam’s Club.

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Unfinished Business …

SGA President Elected to Second Term

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t’s said, you can never get too much of a good thing.

In the case of Fayetteville State University students, that good thing is Jermaine Pittman. Last year, he was elected President of the Student Government Association.

Apparently the students were pleased with Pittman’s performance. They elected him to a second-term.

Pittman, a senior political science major from Enfield, N.C., talks about the experiences he gained from serving the students last year and the plans he has for making this term equally productive.

How do you feel about serving your fellow students for another year? I feel honored in knowing that I was re-elected for another term as Student Body President. A requirement for leadership is being a servant to those entrusting in you their voice and vision.

Why did you decide to seek this position again? Being student body president opens many doors and has afforded me many opportunities to advance my collegiate growth. I truly love the capacity in which I have served as student body president and that passion is what drove me to seek another term.

What, if any, unfinished business do you have? The mission of the Student Government Association is to serve as the voice of the students, promote academic excellence and positive involvement for the enhancement of student life. This year we will continue to go above and beyond with our “Same Mission, NEW Motivation”.

What experiences did you learn from your first term as SGA President do you think will assist you in this term? I learned that I must utilize my executive board and senators to carry out the mission of SGA. By doing so this will enable us to partner with numerous club and organizations and build bridges with community leaders.

What do you like most about your role as SGA President?

Being SGA President, one of my major roles is serving as the

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voice for the student body, by being able to voice students concerns, solve problems, and assist in taking FSU to a higher level. This position provides an opportunity to serve as a liaison between the student body and the FSU faculty, staff, and administration.

Who are your cabinet members for the upcoming school year?

Vice President: Tatianna Mosely Secretary: Che’ Washington Treasurer: Jermaine Coble Chief Of Staff: Tia-Lacha Gilliam Attorney General: Sha’Donna Young Director of Volunteer: Raven Sutton Director of Technology and Marketing: Joshua Brown How will serving as SGA President aid you in your future plans and what are those plans?

Serving as the Student Body President, I have gained valuable skills. By serving in this capacity I have learned the importance of interpersonal skills, time management, maintaining budgets, and networking, all qualities vital to effectively improve campus life and community relations.

My future plans are to obtain a government position or work for a nonprofit organization in order to serve as a catalyst for positive growth in my workplace and living community.

As a member of the Board of Trustees, what is it like being part of decisionmaking processes that not only affect your fellow students, but also the entire campus? It allows me to view issues and campus life in a different light.

Being a Trustee member you really see the issues of the university from an eagle eye view, whereas being a student, we sometimes have tunnel vision. It’s an amazing experience to be a part of the decision-making process of the university during this time. I truly act as the liaison and voice of students to advocate for positive change on behalf of the student body.

FSU Shines During Honda Campus All-Star Challenge

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he Fayetteville State University (FSU) Honda Campus All Star Challenge (HCASC) team represented the university well during the National Tournament from April 9-12, 2011 in Orlando, Florida.

The team won the Sojourner Truth Division with a 5-0 record. Their success gained them entry into the Sweet 16, thus being one of the top 16 teams in the tournament.

FSU lost in the Sweet 16 to perennial power Morehouse College. “Meeting a team like Morehouse is always a tough challenge, because they have an excellent program,’ said FSU Coach Gene Carroway. “They have a team of young men that have been playing the game together for a couple of years and they are a very smart team that is aggressive on the buzzers.”

Making it to the Sweet 16 had its rewards for FSU. As a result, the team received a monetary grant of $6,000 for FSU. The team also entered into a community service competition with the Honda Motor Company. FSU submitted a video of our service during the Heart Walk from October 9, 2010. FSU won the competition and received a $2,000 grant that will go to the American Heart Association to continue their work.

Total, FSU earned $8,000 during the tournament. “To date, FSU has earned $114,000 for FSU,” Carroway said.

This year’s FSU team was young in terms of experience, Carroway said. Junious Smith, a senior mass communications major and team captain, was the lone returner from the team that advanced to the final four in 2010. However, Carroway had faith that the team would fare well because they practiced four to five times a week and sometimes met on the weekends to prepare themselves for the tournament.

They also participated in a couple of tune-up tournaments at North Carolina A&T State University and Morris College. “FSU has been successful because we have had some groups of dedicated students that have given of their time and efforts to this program,” Carroway said. “We also have had some very talented students come and be a part of this team, and we have had had the support of the Office of Student Activities, who has devoted a lot of time toward the program. We have also had the support of the faculty and staff of Fayetteville State University, especially Dr. Thomas Hennessey and Dr. Harmon Watson.”

The HCASC is a question-answer tournament similar to the popular game show “Jeopardy.” HCASC roots began in in 1989 when the American Honda Motor Co., Inc. approached

College Bowl and asked them to create a special version of its world-renowned game for America’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

In response to Honda’s community involvement objectives, Campus All-Star Challenge was established. During the 1989-90 season, Campus All-Star Challenge play began at America’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). All 89 four-year degree-granting HBCUs in the domestic U.S. are eligible for the program.

Educational partners in the program are the ACUI, the Association of College Unions International and NAFEO, the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education. From 1989 through 1995, the program involved campus competition, regionally based Sectional Playoffs and a National Championship Tournament. The finals during that time were broadcast on Black Entertainment Television (BET).

Starting in 1996, the program evolved to an annual gathering of HBCUs to compete at a face-to-face National Championship Tournament. Every spring, students, coaches, campus coordinators, volunteers, HBCU presidents, members of the Association of College Unions International (ACUI), and the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO) gather to crown one National Champion.

Since 1989, more than 50,000 HBCU students have participated in the Campus All-Star Challenge, and Honda has awarded over $6 million dollars in grants to the participating HBCUs. These grants have enhanced student programs, and the students’ college experience.

The five (5) players that represented FSU in Orlando, Florida were: Junious W. Smith, III (Team Captain), senior, mass communications major; Christopher D. Blacksher (president), senior, political science major; April Love, freshman, English language and literature major; Jerrell Nelson, senior, speech and theater major; and Carlie-Anne J. Samedy, senior, biology major.

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Celebrates

FSU Gospel Choir

Success with Release of CD

By Dr. Brooksie Harrington

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or the most part, the lines of demarcation are fairly well etched within academic institutions. There are students and teachers, faculty and staff, the College of Arts and Sciences and The School of Business and Economics. And certainly even more clearly delineated are the separation of the secular and the spiritual. In short, except for the bowing of heads at a departmental dinner or a prayer at convocation, unless there is a Theological School, the twain between church and state is clearly etched.

Well, it is a new day at Fayetteville State University in that history was made in Seabrook Auditorium during February 2010. In celebration of African American History Month, Fayetteville State University’s Gospel Choir held “Celebration,” an historical concert featuring not only outstanding local and alumni artists, and FSU students, this time, the noted Grammy-Award Winning Gospel Singer Ms. Dorothy Norwood was a prominent addition. In this stellar concert, under the direction of Dr. Brooksie Harrington, the choir and Ms. Norwood performed before academic dignitaries, the local and state communities, as well as before our most august student body. With entirely original scores composed by Ms. Becky White, Mr. Michael Ross and Mr. Gabriel Sharpe, an awe-inspiring performance by Ms. Norwood, and the title cut featuring Mr. Justin Barber, a senior English major, the concert set the tone for additional milestones to be set both academically, musically, and spiritually at Fayetteville State University. The CD, entitled Celebrate, has been professionally arranged and produced via the Digital Wave Studio of Fayetteville, North Carolina and Disc Makers located in Pennsauken, New Jersey and may be currently purchased, all funds going towards the choir’s scholarship fund and FSU Student Affairs.

Not one to rest on his laurels, Dr. Harrington also set another precedent at the university during the fall semester. While he has lectured extensively, nationally and internationally, on African American and Southern Gospel Music at such institutions as York University in Toronto, Canada,

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Morehouse College, Howard University and Georgetown University in Atlanta, Georgia and Washington, D.C. respectively, and The UNC School of Folklore and Southern Studies at Chapel Hill, North Carolina, not to mention at the College Language Association Conferences, it wasn’t until this past year that he was able to officially introduce the aesthetics of gospel music into the curriculum at FSU. Primarily, the course, which is ecumenical in discourse features Gospel Music from an international perspective. However, the heart and soul of that course is still African American Gospel, which is the academic specialty of Dr. Harrington. He is quietly preparing a second course which focuses upon the evolution of Gospel Music in North Carolina.

The aesthetics of gospel music, unlike many genres, operates on levels of performance, creation, and communal dialogue.

The accomplishments of Fayetteville State University’s Gospel Choir’s concert and CD, as well as the formal introduction of the “Aesthetics of Gospel, English 470, into the curriculum, are all causes for celebration and reasons to look forward to additional historical precedence being set.

Show your support of the FSU Gospel Choir by ordering your copy of Celebrate today! Contact the Department of Performing and Fine Arts at 910-672-1571 or bharrington@uncfsu.edu.

FSU’s Darrell Armstrong A long, winding road to an NBA Championship

By Alex Podlogar

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ame a sport at Fayetteville State, and Ray McDougal has probably had a hand in it somehow over the decades.

Even intramurals.

Known mostly for the stacks of CIAA golf championships he has accrued, McDougal has also been, for short periods in the past, the Bronco’s head football and head basketball coach. But it was his fusion from director of intramurals to head basketball coach in 1988 that enabled him to get a close-up view of a prodigious, albeit raw, talent.

“He could just get up,” marvels McDougal today.

“And I knew him from when he played intramurals. He was the first one I looked up.”

Quickly, the young man moved up the depth chart in practice, prompting McDougal to have a frank discussion with his assistant coach Bobby Henderson, now the successful bowling coach at FSU. “It came down to that last spot of the starting five, and I thought we should start him,” McDougal reflects. “I like to think I was a pretty good judge of talent.”

Well, to a point anyway.

“To be honest, I didn’t think he was tall enough to make it at the next level,” muses McDougal. “But he never looked back.”

NBA Champion Dallas Mavericks Darrell Armstrong felt it deep in his gut. Never far from the surface, Armstrong could finally feel the sinking crud of failure melt away from the inside. His uniform no longer consisted of a tank and shorts, but of a nattily tailored expensive suit. His view from the bench as a Dallas Mavericks assistant coach may have been similar to that from his waning days in the league, but the rush to center court at American Airlines Arena was altogether new.

There, as the Miami Heat fans filed out and owner Mark Cuban made like Jim Valvano looking for someone to hug, Armstrong found himself celebrating his long-awaited first NBA Championship with men who were not that long ago

fellow teammates. He could rejoice with Dirk Nowitzki and Jason Terry and Cuban, knowing that together they had finally exorcised the demon that was the 2006 NBA Finals loss to the Heat.

“It was just pure joy,” Armstrong can say now, reflecting back as he takes a break from the youth basketball camp that benefits his foundation, The Darrell Armstrong Foundation for Premature Babies, in Orlando, Fla. “We could rejoice the fact that we got the 2006 failure off of me and Dirk and Jet Terry – the whole organization.

We knew we had that championship, and we knew we gave it away. It was just pure elation, of taking care of business and getting the job done.”

As a reserve guard for the Mavericks after years spent on a winding road to NBA success, Armstrong had found it hard to shake what could have been after Dallas squandered a 2-0 series lead to Shaquille O’Neal, Pat Riley and a young Dwyane Wade.

It was a crushing blow, and then only two years later, Armstrong knew his playing days had to end. He retired.

But the Mavericks called only days later. Armstrong turned in his hightops for a clipboard. He was back in the game.

He was a football player first and foremost, and a basketball player in the blacktop sense only. But when Ashbrook High in Gastonia, N.C., fell to mighty Greensboro Page in the state football championship his senior season, Armstrong felt something empty inside of him. He needed a game.

And so for the first time, he went out for basketball. Just 6 feet tall but wiry strong, Armstrong was a good enough athlete. He could run for days. He could defend. He could talk.

And he could dunk.

But he couldn’t shoot. And his being a senior gave him little seniority ahead of guys who had already been in Joe Shepherd’s basketball program.

But Shepherd didn’t turn Armstrong away.

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FSU alum Darrell Armstrong from his playing days with the Dallas Mavericks, circa 2004-06.

”I liked Darrell’s energy level, his athletic ability and I knew he’d help in practice,” recalls Shepherd. “But I couldn’t promise him any playing time.

“I remember I went down the hall and took him out of class one day, and I told him right there, ‘I don’t know if I’m going to keep you or not, but if I do, you’re the 13th guy on a 13-man team.”

Armstrong was sold.

“The 13th man on a 13-man team?” recalls Armstrong.

“That’s all I needed to hear.”

Armstrong didn’t play much out of the gate. Then a holiday tournament rolled around. Tired legs from back-to-back games led to the regulars reaching, and the foul trouble began to mount up. Shepherd looked to the end of his bench and found an eager Armstrong.

“I can remember going in and just getting after it,” Armstrong says. “I had a few steals and I had a dunk. From 38

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there, I saw more and more time.”

The NBA, though, was never on his mind. Why would it be?

“He was one of our best players, and we ended up using him as our sixth man,” says Shepherd, who now serves as a coach at South Point High School in Belmont, N.C. “He won the Most Improved Player award, but he only started one game, and that was on senior night.”

Problem was, Armstrong wasn’t on the minds of any Division-1 football coaches, either. Or Division-II ones, for that matter.

Still, Darrell Armstrong enrolled at Fayetteville State. He had a school. He didn’t have a game.

But he had some old Converse Chuck Taylor shoes.

Chucks.

Armstrong will tell you he was first a football player. But at 6-0, 160 pounds, he didn’t necessarily look like one. Especially in those old Chuck Taylors.

Fayetteville State coach Robert Pulliam took one look at the shoes and shook his head.

“He told me only sissies wear those shoes,” laughs Armstrong now.

Armstrong teed the football up. He took his stance. Three steps later, everything changed.

“Coach’s mouth dropped open real wide when I kicked the ball,” quips Armstrong.

He had his game again. Darrell Armstrong was a Fayetteville State Bronco. In the 1990 and 1991 seasons, he kicked field goals of 47 yards, setting a Fayetteville State record that stood for 18 years until current Broncos kicker Austin Turner broke it with a 49-yarder in 2009.

But Chuck Taylors, back in the day, were primarily basketball shoes.

Hmmmm.

His career winding down, Armstrong still knew a lot of people in the league. Influential people. And they all had the same advice: keep your materials together and be ready for your shot when it comes.

“As a point guard, you’re basically a head coach on the floor,” says Armstrong. “You have to see everything, make sure everything and everybody are in the right spots. That was my job. I wasn’t only a scorer, but I controlled the whole game.”

That experience — 17 years in professional basketball, 14 seasons in the NBA, big awards on his mantle: the 1999 NBA Sixth Man of the Year and its Most Improved Player – prepared Armstrong for his next move. He had averaged 8.2 points per game and 4.0 assists in his NBA career, rising to fame with the Orlando Magic, where he led the team to nine consecutive seasons without a losing record. Armstrong averaged a career-high 16.2 ppg in 1999-2000 and followed that with 15.9 ppg and a career-high 7.0 assists a game a year later.

Armstrong played for five NBA teams, including the Mavericks from 2004-2006. Released by the Indiana Pacers a year later though, and after 50 games with the New Jersey Nets in 2007-08, a 39-year-old Armstrong knew it was time to make his next move – to the bench.

“A lot of coaches told me they believed I could be a good coach in this league,” says Armstrong.

Then-Dallas coach Avery Johnson, whom Armstrong played for with the Mavs, was one of them. And when Armstrong hung ’em up, Johnson had a place for him. Rick Carlisle, the current Dallas head coach, who coached the Pacers when Armstrong played there in 2007, agreed with that assessment when he came to the Mavericks a year later.

The rest is recent history. NBA Championship history.

Ray McDougal, who had become the Broncos’ new interim basketball coach, had given up his intramural duties to take over the reins of the football program for a second time in the late 1980’s. And so he had in-depth knowledge of Armstrong on both the gridiron and the hardwood.

But something had been missing for Armstrong. His confidence shaken by poor grades – “I just partied too much that first year at Fayetteville State,” he explains – Armstrong knew during his freshman season he wouldn’t be able to go out for basketball.

But McDougal knew what Armstrong could do on the hardwood. He implored the skinny kid from Gastonia to come out for the team for the 1988-89 season.

“I would do things sometimes,” Armstrong says, “just to see if I could do it, and that would bring my confidence up.”

A year after starting for McDougal on a team that included seven walk-ons, in came new coach Jeff Capel, who would

prove to be a monumental influence on Armstrong.

“Coach Capel really worked on me,” says Armstrong. “He did everything for me physically, taught me how to really shoot. But what he did for me mentally was huge for my confidence. He was the first coach who really believed I could get to the next level.”

Armstrong got there, but it took a few stops. He knocked around basketball’s minor leagues in the USBL, CBA and GBA for three years, with trips home and jobs working third shift at the mill mixing in between longshot hoop dreams. Eventually, though, he made it overseas to Greece and Spain, and Armstrong was soon making a career in basketball for himself, playing so well that another foreign team was willing to pay him $100,000 more than the offer that came from an NBA team.

The money didn’t matter.

Armstrong opted for the NBA. “Like I said,” says McDougal, “he never looked back.”

Armstrong can take the time to look back now. It’s been several days since the Mavericks celebrated in Miami. There have been parties in South Beach, back in Dallas, a huge parade, and more parties. Four days into his youth basketball camp, Armstrong could finally make an appearance.

His foundation is raising money to fund a child development center in Orlando, where Armstrong is still beloved for a reputation as one of the game’s hardest workers and tenacious defenders and scorers. A decade ago, the organization raised enough money to purchase an ambulance to be used exclusively to transport premature infants. Two of Armstrong’s children were born prematurely.

This is where he finds much of his passion. Armstrong speaks to kids at the camp, offers the easy smile and genuinely comes off as just another guy.

“I hear it all the time,” he jokes. “I hear somebody say, ‘There’s Darrell Armstrong.’ And then a kid says, ‘Who’s that?’”

That, one could point out now, is an NBA Champion. A real player, a teammate of Dirk’s, a coach of Jason Kidd.

“Some might say that’s just a D-II level, a small black college,” Armstrong says of Fayetteville State. “But one thing that’s always been with me — and Coach Capel said it to me and I’ve always remembered it – if you play hard, good things will happen. That’s what I’ve always done. I always practiced hard. I always competed.”

“If you can play, they’ll find you. That’s what Coach Capel always told me. You can be found anywhere.”

Armstrong pauses.

“Now, I don’t know if they found me. But I found them.”

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FSU Intramural Teams Capture National Titles

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ayetteville State University (FSU) has two national championships in men’s and women’s basketball. The FSU Men’s and Women’s Intramural team brought home national titles during the 2011 American Collegiate Intramural Sports (ACIS) National Basketball Championships April 8-10 in Raleigh.

The championships were hosted by North Carolina State University.

In the men’s championship, FSU defeated North Carolina A & T State University 62-58. With a barrage of three-pointers, FSU jumped out to an early 10-point lead en route to a 3629 halftime advantage. FSU extended the its lead to 14 at 52-38 only to see North Carolina A&T fight its way back into the game. Derek Holmes, a member of the FSU squad, was named to the Men’s IM All-America team.

Not to be outdone by the men’s squad, FSU jumped to an early lead and cruised to a 35-28 win over Elizabeth City State University to earn the women’s championship. Deja Middleton, tournament most valuable player, led FSU. She was joined by teammate Brittany Parker on the AllAmerica team.

Founded in 2005, ACIS sponsors campus, regional and national championship tournaments that provide college student athletes with the opportunity to compete in high quality, nationally promoted intramural and extramural events. On more than 200 campuses nationwide, ACIS sponsors national championships in intramural flag football, basketball and fitness programs.

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FSU’s Cole Wins PGA Minority DII Championship Broncos’ top player caps brilliant season with satisfying victory at storied tournament

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ayetteville State’s John Cole saved his best for last. In his last tournament of his first year as a collegiate golfer, Cole fired his best round of the weekend in the final round, a 1-under-par 71 to capture the medalist championship at the PGA Minority Division-II Golf Championship in June.

“This is icing on the cake,” said a satisfied Cole, who won for the fourth time in his first season with the Broncos.

Cole, a freshman from Fayetteville, shot the best round of the day on one of the toughest scoring days of the threeday tournament on the PGA’s Wanamaker Course, winning the championship by four shots over Winston-Salem State’s Glendon Mabe, who shot 72 on Sunday. Cole, who finished with a three-day total of 4-over-par 220, closes the year with top-10 finishes in nine tournaments and seven top-5 finishes.

He is the first Broncos’ player to win the PGA Minority title since Joel “Chip” Lynn in 2009. “This was definitely one of the best years I’ve ever had in golf,” Cole said.

But the final win of the season may not have happened had Cole not taken a hard look at himself on Saturday night. After a 4-over 76 in the second round trimmed his lead down to a single stroke, Cole sat up late at night in his hotel room, mapping out a strategy for the final round.

“I sat down and wrote out a game plan on how I would play each hole,” Cole said. “I think that really helped. Then I had a good range session (Sunday) morning, and I started the round with a lot of confidence.”

Cole admitted that just missing out on an automatic berth into next week’s NCAA National Championship following his standout play in the regional led to some lingering frustration over the first two days at the PGA.

“I made a double bogey on the second hole in the second round, and I really let that get to me. I think that’s why I had a higher round on Saturday,” said Cole, who is an alternate for the NCAAs after finishing in a tie for seventh as an individual at the regional. “I was still frustrated over not making nationals, and I let it bother me, which I don’t normally do. I felt like I was trying to make it about scores rather than focusing on one shot at a time. I was a little off-focus. (Sunday), I did a much better job concentrating.”

And it was a brilliant finish to a whirlwind week for Cole, who endured 17 hours on the road following his play at the NCAA Atlantic/East Regional in Hershey, PA, on Wednesday and arriving in Florida on Thursday. The Broncos finished their final tournament of the season in fifth place after a three-day aggregate score of 965. Fayetteville State enjoyed its best day as a team on Sunday, shooting 316. Lincoln Jackson (Jr., Southern Pines, NC) finished as the Broncos’ second-best golfer after an 85 on Sunday for a three-day total of 238. Willie

McClure (Jr., Fayetteville, NC) capped a solid weekend with a final-round 81 to finish as the Broncos’ third-best golfer after a three-day total of 239. Mike Wallace (Jr., Fayetteville, NC) capped his season with a solid 79 for a 269 total while Antonio Mayo finished at 289 after his weekend-best 93. Virginia State won the team event after a 305 on Sunday for a 927 total. Lincoln, of Jefferson City, MO, was second at 934 while Winston-Salem State (950) was third.

Celebrating its 25th year, the PGA Minority Collegiate Golf Championship presented by Brown Capital Management originated in November 1986 following the Jackson State University Golf Tournament and has elevated golf in minority colleges and universities by providing opportunities to more players to compete in a national championship.

The 1986 organizational meeting brought together a significant group of founders: the late Dr. Herschel Cochrane, Dr. Joe D. Saunders of the National Negro Golf Association; Jackson State University Golf Coach Eddie Payton; Rose HarperElder of the Sports Management Institute; and William (Bill) Dickey, founder of the Bill Dickey Scholarship Association and recipient of the 1999 PGA Distinguished Service Award.

The founders’ goal was to provide a national stage for players from minority colleges and universities after being denied opportunities to compete in NCAA Collegiate golf events.

The inaugural Championship was conducted in the spring of 1987 at Highland Park Golf Course in Cleveland, Ohio.

Since 1998, PGA Golf Club in Port St. Lucie, Fla., has been host to the Championship, and in 2006, The PGA of America was granted complete ownership and management of the Championship by the National Minority College Golf Scholarship Fund. Fayetteville State has a storied history at the tournament, winning it four straight times from 2006-09 and six times since 1992.

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The White & Blue NEWS

FROM

BRONCO

ALUMNI

Dear Alumni and Friends, I thank alumni far and near for allowing me to lead our illustrious National Alumni Association in support of our great alma mater, Fayetteville State University. I am truly grateful for all the support I have received from the executive officers, board of directors, and entire membership. Your willingness to accept the challenges of increasing membership, increasing the number of alumni donors, and increasing alumni giving have resulted in a stronger partnership with FSU, a stronger alumni association, and stronger alumni chapters.

It is in the spirit of unity, victory, Bronco Pride, and giving that has brought us to where we are today. It is in this same spirit that we will find the power, financial and otherwise, to continue to lead our National Alumni Association and alma mater to greater heights.

The National Alumni Association (NAA) has claimed and expects to continue to claim victorious moments and celebratory occasions as we grow our membership, exalt our pride, and embrace the efforts of our great alma mater.

Over the past year, we have reached milestones within our membership and in our partnership with the university. Recently, we embraced the CIAA challenge of the university to increase the number of alumni donors with the NAA president’s “Buck – n – Bronco” challenge. Together we exceeded the goal set by the university. this was made possible through the efforts of a dynamic team of NAA chapter presidents making a difference.

We are proud to boast about our electronic bonding across the country which has enabled us to carry out major responsibilities of the association within the confines of our homes. Members of the association have been able to participate in meetings electronically and this level of engagement has inspired alumni, and brought about a greater level of inclusiveness.

The National Alumni Association is preparing for its next celebration at its biennial national convention June 23-26, 2011 in Atlanta Georgia. The Atlanta chapter is planning for an outstanding convention. All Fayetteville state alumni members are welcome for business and pleasure.

Membership in the national alumni association is only $50.00 a year. Let’s be victorious in re-engaging alumni around the globe to FSU. Joining the National Alumni Association certainly demonstrates your pride in Fayetteville State University and increases its value. Even if you did not matriculate at Fayetteville State University and you want to become a part of the National Alumni family, we have a membership level for you and we welcome you.

Institutions, like businesses, are judged by the quality of the products they produce. Fayetteville State University is no different. FSU is judged by its alumni. Thus, it is FSU alumni and their investment that will make FSU stronger.

Therefore, it is in this spirit that I challenge you to exercise your courage and might as you prepare to invest in FSU and make a victorious difference at Fayetteville State University, not only in North Carolina, but in our global connections as well.

Thanks again for all you do and may God continue the flow of blessings in your life.

Vedas Neal, President Fayetteville State University National Alumni Association

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FSU NAA Annual Meeting and National Convention The Annual Meeting/ Convention was held June 23 – June 26, 2011 at the Hilton Atlanta Airport Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia.

Approximately eighty-five Broncos and friends attended.

Registration and hospitality was on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Workshops were conducted on Friday by Dorothy Hardy (Membership); Donald Pettiway (Conflict Resolution); Ulisa Bowles (Student Recruitment); Tim Jones, Michaela Brown (Leadership); Chonna Campbell, Arthur Affleck (Fundraising); Mary Bailey, Tamara Brothers, Peggy Devane (Onward and Upward and Major Gifts); and Stephen Sims

and Toni Richardson (NAA Potpourri). On Friday night, the Atlanta Chapter sponsored an outing for the group.

The NAA general meeting, followed by the Awards Luncheon, was held Saturday. At the Luncheon, special greetings were brought from the Honorable Congressman John E. Lewis and Atlanta’s District 7 Commissioner William “Bill” Edwards. Awards were presented to Dr. James Anderson, Mr. Arthur Affleck, and Ms. Michaela Brown for outstanding leadership and service. Exhibit winners were announced during the luncheon and were presented awards: 1st Place – Cumberland County Chapter, 2nd Place – Atlanta Chapter, and 3rd Place – Gold-Wayne Chapter. On Saturday evening, the Atlanta Chapter hosted a Las Vegas Casino Night.

The weekend ended with Sunday morning worship service at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia. All events and fellowship were enjoyed by everyone.

Photography by Mr. Tydus Huddlleston, Can You See Me Now? Photography

The White & Blue NEWS

FROM

BRONCO

ALUMNI

NFL Draft Prospect and All-American Jeff Brooks Flies Under The Radar All American Jeff Brooks is considered one of the best Defensive Backs and Kick Returners in the country. He made a decision to concentrate on academics and earned his college degree with honors. Some say that decision caused him to fly under the NFL draft radar.

Jeff Brooks is a 2011 NFL Prospect who received a scholarship to play defensive back at the University of Minnesota. However, Brooks later felt that it was in his best interest, academically, to transfer to Fayetteville State University.

Brooks ended his collegiate football career at Fayetteville State University, as the number one kick returner in the country, with an average of 39.9 yards, and became an All-American.

Some felt that Brooks compromised his position as a potentially high profile player by transferring from Division I Minnesota to FSU a Division II institution. Brooks’ response to the critics was that at the end of the day, he had to take into consideration his overall goal was to obtain a college degree. He graduated Cum Laude with a degree in Criminal Justice. “To my knowledge, there aren’t many that started out with me who can say that they earned their degree while playing football, and most certainly not with honors.”

Despite the many challenges that Brooks faced during his collegiate career, he has remained focused in regards to obtaining his career goal of becoming a football player in the National Football League. Brooks’ work ethic, speed and agility have been described as stellar since high school, running 40’s that range from 4.39 to 4.43 with ease. Brooks trained with University of Miami’s renowned strength and conditioning head coach Andreu Swasey, and recently completed his pro-day at University of Miami with stats that were comparable to those that were invited to the NFL Combine.

When asked how he felt about his performance, Brooks stated, “I have had faster times but I’m pleased and looking forward to draft day. Prayerfully, I’ll be taken under consideration for my athletic ability and land a home on a team in the NFL, rather than where I chose to receive my college degree”. Brooks also expressed that he felt blessed to have the opportunity to participate in the NFL process.

MRS. NANCY HARRIS CROWNED MS. ALUMNI Mrs. Nancy Harris ’70 was crowned Ms. Alumni 2010-2011 by outgoing queen Mrs. Reater Warren ’75 during homecoming weekend. Mrs. Harris resides in Fayetteville, North Carolina with her husband Mr. James Harris, Jr. Mrs. Harris received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Education and a Master of Science degree in Special Education. She retired from Cumberland County Schools after 31 years as a teacher, Compliance Monitor, Instructional Specialist, and Exceptional Children’s Case Manager. Presently, she is a remediation teacher for Ms. Alumni 2010-2011, Nancy Harris and First RunnerCumberland County Schools.

Up, Hilda D. Boyd.

Mrs. Harris is a member of the Cumberland County Alumni Chapter and a life member of the Fayetteville State University National Alumni Association. She serves as Secretary of the National Alumni Association and is on several committees. Her community commitments include: Life member of NEA, NCAE, Cumberland County Retired Teachers Association, R. B. Dean Alumni Association, and is also a member of Zeta Pi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She is a member of John Wesley United Methodist Church.

First runner-up was Mrs. Hilda Boyd ’60. She resides in Fuquay Varina, North Carolina with her husband Dr. Major Boyd ’60. They have two children: Michelle Boyd Alston and Marcelle Boyd Pettis. There grandson is Myles Landon Pettis.

Mrs. Boyd received a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education from Fayetteville State University and a Master of Science degree in Guidance and Counseling from North Carolina A&T State University. Her credentials include Reading, Mentor Curriculum, School Administrator, and Career Development Coordinator. Mrs. Boyd retired from the Wake County Public School System as a school counselor.

Presently she is a substitute teacher for Wake County. Her professional organizations and affiliations are Raleigh-Wake FSU Alumni Chapter, Fayetteville State University National Alumni Association, Frink High School Alumni Association, American School Counselor Association, North Carolina Counseling Association, North Carolina Retired School Personnel, and a life member of the National Education Association. Mrs. Boyd’s civic and community involvement includes a Life Member/Golden Soror of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and a member of Davie Street Presbyterian Church. She has received many achievements and enjoys spending time with her spouse, daughters, and grandson.

Approximately sixteen vivacious former queens, in royal blue attire and white sashes denoting the year of their reign, were presented. Following the coronation, the new Ms. Alumni and her husband led the first dance of the evening. They were joined by the runner-up and her husband and National Alumni President Vedas Neal and her husband Mr. James Neal.

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The White & Blue NEWS

FROM

BRONCO

ALUMNI

Alum Named N.C. Community Colleges Staff Person of the Year Mark Best, a Craven County native who has spent his career helping men and women develop the skills they need to improve their lives, has been named the 2011 North Carolina Community Colleges Staff Person of the Year. Best serves as the Director of Workforce Readiness at Craven Community College.

“I am so proud to represent Craven at the system level,” said Best. “I want to thank all of my colleagues here for their support and encouragement. It’s a blessing from God, and I dedicate this honor to my parents, Stephen and Della Best.”

Best will formally receive his award at the N.C. Community College System’s “Excellence Event” on April 14, 2012 in Raleigh. The system award, which is sponsored by BB&T, carries with it a cash prize, a certificate and a plaque. In addition, the Craven Community College Foundation will receive $2,000.

Best is a 1974 graduate of West Craven High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Fayetteville State University in 1978.

Over his 25-year career with the college, Best has been one of Craven’s most recognizable public faces. He has spent countless hours in the community spreading the word about the college and the opportunities available for area residents.

Mark Best, center, Craven Community College’s Director of Workforce Readiness As Craven’s Workforce Readiness director, Best works closely with men and women who are unemployed and underemployed. He schedules Programs, has been named the 2011 North Carolina Community Colleges Staff Person of the Year. He is congratulated by Layne Harpine, left, the College’s and manages short-term classes that are designed to teach participants Dean of Continuing Education, and Craven President Catherine Chew. basic computer skills, interviewing techniques, résumé writing and other skills.

In recent months, Best has helped to organize career fairs, built partnerships with area organizations and worked one-on-one with people who were searching for the right path.

“Mark wants people to know what’s available for them here at Craven, and he has worked hard to ensure that we, at the college, remain focused on the educational needs of our community,” said Layne Harpine, Craven’s dean of Continuing Education.

Craven President Catherine Chew said Best’s years of dedication to the college and its mission made him a perfect choice for the honor.

“I don’t think there is anyone more deserving of this award than Mark Best,” she said. “Mark has had such a positive impact on so many people’s lives. It is a joy to see him receive this award.”

Best is the third employee from Craven Community College to receive a statewide honor from the N.C. Community College System.

Ebony Joyner Named Thurgood Marshall Distinguished Scholar Ebony Joyner, a December 2010 graduate of Fayetteville State University (FSU), was selected as the Thurgood Marshall College Fund’s (TMCF) Distinguished Scholar of the Month for June.

Each month a Thurgood Marshall Distinguished Scholar is selected from students matriculating through the 47 TMCF-member schools, which include public Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) and Predominately Black Institutions (PBIs). This person is a “student among students”, stands out as a leader, is active in the community, or has already accrued honors and/or achievements. The student selected is also innovative and making moves in and outside of the classroom. Two students are selected each month and are featured on the TMCF website and social networks.

Joyner, a native of Asheville, N.C., earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biotechnology. She aspires to be a physician’s assistant. During her tenure at FSU, she was author of a scientific publication, senior class president, president of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, president of the Order of Omega Greek Honor Society, and parliamentarian of the Delta Xi Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Joyner was also selected to attend the Thurmond Marshall Leadership Conference in 2010 and the first Thurgood Marshall College Fund/Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention Ambassadors Public Health Workshop in April 2011.

Currently, Joyner is an Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Technology (ORISE) Fellow residing in Atlanta, and working at the CDC. She is applying to physician assistant schools and hopes to enroll in August 2012.

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The White & Blue NEWS

FROM

BRONCO

ALUMNI

TWO VIE FOR MS. ALUMNI 2011-2012 The Fayetteville State University National Alumni Association has two seeking to be crowned Ms. Alumni during Homecoming 2011. Sabrina G. Richardson and Tracy Lewis Williams are working hard to earn the title. The “Night with Ms. Alumni” coronation will be held Friday, October 14th, at the Doubletree Hotel.

Sabrina G. Richardson is a 1993 graduate of Fayetteville State University, receiving a BS Degree in Accounting. In 1995, she completed a Meeting Event Planning certification from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Sabrina grew up in Bailey, NC, but currently resides in Charlotte. She is employed as a controller with a commercial construction company and is owner of An Elegance Taylor-Made event planning firm. Sabrina is married to Clarence R. Taylor, Jr. who is also an FSU alum, and both are active members of the Charlotte FSU Alumni Chapter.

At the present time, Sabrina serves as treasurer of the Charlotte chapter and has served as chairperson of several committees. She enjoys being involved in community service activities and is a member of the Charlotte Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Tracy Lewis Williams is a 1991 graduate of Fayetteville State University with a BA Degree in Sociology/Social Work and has a Masters of Social Work Degree from East Carolina University. She is native to and currently resides in Goldsboro, North Carolina. She is employed as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Therapist at Neuse Correctional Institution in Goldsboro. Tracy is a member of the Gold-Wayne FSU Alumni Chapter; Deeper Life Church Ministries; the NAACP; and the National Association of Social Workers. She is married to Nicky Williams and has two children, BreAnna and Chancellor. Tracy loves being a mom, counseling, traveling, and raising funds for worthy causes. She is a member of the Epsilon Phi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. We wish these two contestants well as they endeavor to be crowned Ms. Alumni 2011-2012.

Fallen Broncos Ms. Willie H. Benefield, Jacksonsville, FL Mr. James E. Dew ’54, Wilson, NC Mr. James Allen Toon, Erwin, NC (Former Head Football Coach) Mrs. Rosa Wardlaw, ’71, Fayetteville, NC Fire Captain Jeff Bowen, ’10, Asheville, NC (Died in the Line of Duty)

FSU Grad Named Athletic Director Vivian L. Fuller, Class of ’77, a seasoned athletics director and college administrator, has been named Athletics Director at Jackson State University. Dr. Fuller will take the helm of Jackson State’s athletics program later this summer, just in time for the start of JSU’s celebration of 100 years of football. “I’m excited to be a Tiger,” Fuller said. “Jackson State has such a long and proud tradition; I look forward to honoring that tradition and helping our student athletes be the best they can be.”

Fuller will arrive at Jackson State University from Sojourner-Douglass College, where she served as dean of the college’s Cambridge, Maryland campus. Before joining Sojourner-Douglass in 2003, Fuller spent more than a decade directing the athletics programs at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Tennessee State University, and Northeastern Illinois University.

When named AD at Tennessee State in 1997, Fuller became the first African-American woman to lead a National Collegiate Athletic Association ( NCAA ) Division I Athletics program with a football team. That team finished its first season under her leadership with a 9-3 record and won the Ohio Valley Conference championship.

Jackson’s State’s new AD is a nationally known expert on academic support programs for student-athletes, academic advising, women in sports and management and gender equity. She has testified before the U.S. Senate in congressional hearings on gender equity and minority participation in sports and has been involved in numerous NCAA committees including the Management Council, the Peer Review Committee, the Initial Eligibility Standards Committee, the Gender Equity Task Force and the National Youth Sports Program ( NYSP ), for which she served as chairperson.

Fuller began her career in higher education at Bennett College in 1978 as the director of intramurals and instructor of physical education. From 1984-87, she served as assistant director for advisement programs for studentathletes at North Carolina A&T, earning a promotion to assistant director of athletics. In 1987, she became associate director of intercollegiate athletics at Indiana University in Pennsylvania, where she was responsible for internal operations of the program and developing the academic component for student-athletes.

Fuller earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from Fayetteville State University in 1977, a Master’s of Education from the University of Idaho in 1978, and a Doctorate in Higher Education Administration from Iowa State University in 1985.

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The White & Blue NEWS

FROM

BRONCO

ALUMNI

AIR FORCE OFFICER SWAPS TROOPS FOR TEACHING Former Air Force Lt. Colonel Frank Melvin, Class of ’74, teaches at Denbigh High School in Newport News, Virginia. He extols the virtues he acquired in the military for building relationships with his students.

Troops for Teaching is a program that was introduced after the first Gulf War and Frank is an extraordinary example of the program’s success. He is experiencing a second career as a math teacher and has earned the status of Teacher of the Year in his school system.

The BBC broadcasters visited his school and included him in a documentary that has already been shown in England and will be aired in the US. A clip of the documentary can be viewed at http:// news.bbc.co.uk/panorama/hi/puffbox/hyperpuff/front_page/panorama_ choice/newsid_9407000/9407745.stm. He is also featured in a special web exclusive highlighting his classroom philosophy. Frank is the treasurer of the Greater Hampton Roads Alumni Chapter.

ACCOUNTANT FORMS NEW FIRM James (Jim) Holland, Class of ’79, has formed a CPA partnership, Holland and Brown.

Holland has an MBA from North Carolina Central University and a B.S. from Fayetteville State University. He served in the United States Army at Fort Bragg, NC, from January 1972 until December 1974. Jim is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Virginia Society of CPAs. He serves on the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors and is retired from Philip Morris USA International.

He is also a Professor of Accounting and CPA Advisor at Virginia Commonwealth University MAJOR COMPLETES SPECIAL TRAINING Major Gardner Jerell Joyner, Class of ‘97, recently completed his second masters degree program in Operations Research at the Air Force Institute of Technology at Wright Patterson AFB, OH. OR is an interdisciplinary branch of applied mathematics and formal science that uses advanced analytical methods such as mathematical modeling, statistical analysis, and mathematical optimization to arrive at optimal or near-optimal solutions to complex decision-making problems. His thesis work comprised of a Value Focused Thinking model to measure the effectiveness of Ground Moving Target Indicator. After graduation, Maj Joyner moved to Warner Robins, GA, where he returned to Operational Flying in the Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS).

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BOWDEN JOINS VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY Mr. Richard Bowden, Class of ’98, has joined the staff of Virginia University as the Corporate Relations Officer. He will be working with President Reavis and also for the Department of Institutional Advancement. Mr. Bowden is a from Fort Lee, Virginia, where he worked for a Defense Contractor. He has worked in training, administrative, and management positions where he has been successful at improving productivity and test results. He is also an accomplished photographer and writer.

CHAPTER RECOGNIZED BY FSU NAA The GoldWayne FSU Alumni Chapter and three of its members were recognized during the Awards Program.

The highlight was the chapter being named Chapter of the Year for its exceptional service projects that promote the goals and objectives of the National Alumni Association. Additionally, Frederick Waddell received the National Alumni Award for his outstanding service to Fayetteville State University and the NAA. He is a member of the Foundation Board and the founder & CEO of the Waddell Group which was formed in 1996. Carole Battle received a plaque for her service as the past president of the NAA and Melba S. Uzzell earned a Chancellor Club plaque for her contribution to the NAA. The Gold Wayne Chapter was elated to receive the various awards during Homecoming 2010.

CLASS OF 1960 RETURNS TO CAMPUS During the homecoming weekend 2010, twenty-four members of the 1960 graduating class of the former Fayetteville State Teachers’ College returned to celebrate their Golden Anniversary. They have been inducted into FSU’s Senior Academy. Classmates traveled from near and far, including Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and various places in North

The White & Blue NEWS

FROM

BRONCO

ALUMNI

Carolina. It was a wonderful weekend of remembering, as well as reminiscing, and the chance to create new memories. Highlighting the events was the banquet and our esteemed speaker, Dr. Lafayette Parker. A special memorial service honoring deceased classmates, was a feature of the banquet. Class members also had the honor of presenting Chancellor James A. Anderson a check for over $20,000 from the class of 1960. The 50th Reunion was a splendid event. It was a memorable four days of reflecting, laughing, sharing, and renewing old friendships.

NEW DINWIDDIE, VA, PRINCIPAL NAMED A new era has started for Southside Elementary School. Lucy Brown Jones, Class of ’96, has been named the school’s new principal after serving for the past five years as assistant principal. Jones was born and raised in North Carolina, and earned her bachelor’s degree at Fayetteville State University. She migrated one state north to pursue a teaching position in Henrico County. She taught for five years in North Carolina and seven years in Virginia. “I have a passion for education and also for making certain that children receive the best and the most quality education possible,” Jones said.

“Being a classroom teacher, I was only able to just touch those 20 children in my classroom, but as a principal ... you’re able to ensure that the school as a whole continues to excel academically.” Read more at http://progress-index.com/news/new-era-begins-with-newdinwiddie-principal-1.1164299#ixzz1PosOmtzV. SUMMER BRUNCH HELD IN RICHMOND The “Summer Bunch” met this year in Richmond to fellowship and reminisce on their days at FSU. The group consists of members of the class of 1970.

The Summer Bunch has met in a different city every summer since graduating. Pictured are the Class of 1970 “Summer Bunch” attendees.

ALUM RELEASES CD Alfreda Morrisey Cromartie, Class of ’90, has released an unplanned, demo CD entitled Unrestricted Worship. Copies of the debut CD can be purchased for $6 each or two for $10. Ms. Cromartie is working diligently to complete her first full album, scheduled for release soon.

The demo CD can be ordered at www.fredacmusic.com.

SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO FORMER QUEENS Former FSU Alumni Queens gathered for their annual Homecoming 2010 breakfast to honor two among their ranks. Mrs. Ernestine (Mama Tine) Smith and Mrs. Ethel U. Baldwin are two 80+ seniors in the group. Allene Ritchey extended the tribute to Mrs. Smith who was the 2003-2004 queen representing the Cumberland County Chapter, while Dorothy Hardy recognized Mrs. Baldwin, who reigned as GoldWayne’s contestant for 1965-66. An original song for the former queens was performed in honor of the two ladies. Mrs. Smith and Mrs. Baldwin’s longevity is remarkable and both ladies continue to give service to their respective communities and to the FSU National Alumni Association.

CLASS OF 1975 CELEBRATES REUNION The Class of 1975 celebrated its 35th class reunion during Homecoming 2010. Participating members held a hospitality event on Friday night and enjoyed many other events during the homecoming weekend. In an effort to give back, the class presented a gift of over $2,000 to the Fayetteville State University’s Scholarship Fund.

NURSE APPOINTED AS COMPLIANCE OFFICER Community Home Care and Hospice, the most experienced provider of hospice services in the Southeast, has recently appointed Natalie Carter Sharpe, Class of ’01, MSN, RN, to the role of Chief Compliance Officer. This position will be responsible for overseeing the clinical functions and compliance programs for the company’s 39 offices across North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia. Sharpe has been a registered nurse for nearly 20 years, with 15 of those being dedicated to home care and hospice. Sharpe received her Masters in Nursing Science from the University of Phoenix, her Bachelor’s in Nursing Science from Fayetteville State University and an Associates Degree in Nursing from the College of the Albemarle. Sharpe is a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She lives in Fayetteville, North Carolina with her husband Victor and is very active in her church and community. She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society for Nursing and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

PERKINS RECEIVES AWARD FROM U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Nicholas M. Perkins, Class of ’03, and Perkins Management Services Company, a North Carolina minority-owned small business specializing in food services management, announced today that it has received a Small Business Achievement Award from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Kevin Boshears, Director of the Department of. Homeland Security’s Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization along with Nick Nayak, Chief Procurement Officer, Department of Homeland Security, presented the award to Perkins Management Services during the 7th Annual DHS Small Business Awards Ceremony held in Washington, D.C. on April 20, 2011.

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Affion Crockett, Fayetteville

State University (FSU) alumnus turned actor and comedian, has a bit of advice for those from small schools and towns looking to make it into the big-time. “It is possible to do,” Crockett said. “You can make your dreams come true if take the right course of action. Believe in yourself. You have to leave the small town and go to the big city, but believe in yourself and take the path of never giving up and being persistent. It can happen.”

Crockett should know because it’s happening for him. A veteran comedian and actor with several movie and television credits under his belt, Crockett has achieved what he considers the highlight of what is already an impressive career.

On August 14 at 9 p.m. on the Fox network, Crockett starred in the premiere of his own show called “In the Flow with Affion Crockett.” Executive produced by himself and the multitalented Jamie Foxx, the show reveals a fresh take on pop culture with spoofs of movie trailers, commercials, TV shows, music videos and celebrities.

The new production came about as a result of compiling You Tube videos he had been producing. With the assistance of Fayetteville native Carl Jones, a fellow Westover High School graduate and producer of “The Boondocks”, the two pitched the idea to the Fox network. Network executives liked what they saw and paired Crockett with actor Foxx to add a veteran name to the series. “I was a fan of his work already and knew the talent he had,” Crockett said of Foxx. “The dynamic was that it was my show and that he wanted to come in and support that. It was not like we were going to revamp Wanda or do ‘In Living Color’ all over again, but he wanted to support what I was doing.”

This most recent gig is a dream come true for Crockett. He grew up watching Foxx on “In Living Color” and one day dreamed that he would have a show of his own. Now that he has, he hopes to make the most of it. He said he anticipates 48

FS&U Magazine

this project putting him on the A-list of actors with the likes of Will Smith and Chris Tucker. “I think this is going to place me in that light and take me to the big screen,” Crockett said.

While Crockett hopes this venture will propel him to even greater heights, he has already tasted the fruits of success.

He is one of the most versatile entertainers around, as an accomplished actor, writer, dancer, rapper, comedian, music producer, and director. He was introduced to the world on HBO’s “Def Comedy Jam” in 1996, demonstrating his crystal clear impressions and physical comedy, for which he was labeled the next Jim Carrey. He also shows his range with dramatic turns on “CSI: NY,” “NYPD Blue” and “The District.”

He was also the break out star on MTV’s “Wild’n Out” and “Short Circuitz” with Nick Cannon. He has starred on “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” and “Cedric The Entertainer’s Show.”

Crockett also co-starred in the films, “Dance Flick” with the Wayans Brothers, “Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins” with Martin Lawrence, and “Soul Men” with Samuel L. Jackson and the late Bernie Mac. He began his career as a dancer at age 10, winning breaking and popping contests with his older brother. Later on, he honed his impression skills by imitating anyone from his mother’s West Indian dialect or his schoolteacher’s southern drawl to the Scarface’s choppy Cuban accent. Soon after, Affion combined his dance and impressionist talents to develop his stand up act. After graduating from FSU with a bachelor’s degree in business, Crockett set his sights on the entertainment industry. And while he hasn’t looked back, Crockett hasn’t forgotten his roots. “I am thankful for the support from my hometown, Fayetteville, N.C.,” he said. “I may not be able to get back as often and now they see why.

But I do come home as often as I can. People don’t know I am from there, so let it be known to the masses that I am a hometown Fayetteville native. Me and J. Cole are out there doing it.”

Photo credit: Kelly Dymon

FSU Alum Debuts In Own Comedy Show on Fox Network this Fall

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FSU’s distinguished faculty includes the 2010 recipient of the North Carolina Literature Award.

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FSU actively supports the military by operating satellite campuses on Fort Bragg, Camp Lejeune, and Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, all in North Carolina, and Fort Sam Houston in Texas.

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