Gem of the Hills - 2024 Spring

GEM The Magazine of Jacksonville State University | SPRING 2024

JAX STATE GOES BOWLING PAGE 4

PI KAPPA PHI HONORS RANDY OWEN 9

READY TO ROC 11

CASE CLOSED 16

GEM of the hills

|contributors| JAX STATE PRESIDENT Don C. Killingsworth, Jr., Ed.D. ’99/’01

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VICE PRESIDENT FOR PHILANTHROPY Alan Medders, Ph.D. ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT FOR PHILANTHROPY Kelli J. Holmes ’00 CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER Tim Garner ’69

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DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT Kaci Ogle ’95/’04 DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND LICENSING Mary Smith ’93

FEATURES

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Emily Lankford ’16/’20

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COVER: JAX STATE GOES BOWLING

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PI KAPPA PHI HONORS RANDY OWEN WITH UNIVERSITY’S LARGEST CROWDFUNDING CAMPAIGN

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CAMPUS GETTING READY TO ROC

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CASE CLOSED: CENTER FOR APPLIED FORENSICS ASSISTS ALABAMA POLICE IN SOLVING HOMICIDES

SECTIONS 3 PRESIDENT’S LETTER 12 AROUND CAMPUS 15 WITH ALUMNI 20 PHILANTHROPY

WRITERS Brett Buckner Buffy Lockette ’21 DESIGNER Emily Lankford ’16/’20 PHOTOGRAPHERS Alyssa Cash ’23 Brandon Phillips ’17/’19 Austin Tillison ’18/’22

|alumni engagement board executive officers| PRESIDENT Krystle Saulsberry ’07 VICE PRESIDENT OF ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT Eric McCulley ’95 VICE PRESIDENT OF ANNUAL GIVING Tara Powell ’83

24 ALUM NOTES

Gem of the Hills is published by the Division of Philanthropy: 700 Pelham Road North, Jacksonville, Alabama 36265 © 2024 Jacksonville State University

COLLEGIATE ADVERTISING AWARDS WINNER 2013 • 2018 • 2023

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COUNCIL FOR THE ADVANCEMENT AND SUPPORT OF EDUCATION (CASE) AWARDS WINNER 2019

phone: (256) 782-5404 email: alumni@jsu.edu | web: jsu.edu/alumni

THE PRESIDENT

DEAR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS, Greetings from the Friendliest Campus in the South! It's such an exciting time to be a Gamecock.

Whether in athletics, the arts, research, or community service - Jax State continues to excel. We're also growing. We shattered our enrollment record for a third consecutive year in fall 2023. In the spring, we posted our highest spring enrollment since 2009.

As our campus continues to grow, we're investing in new facilities that will shape the future of Jax State.

The former Jacksonville Hospital, generously donated to us in 2018, has been transformed into a cutting-edge teaching facility for the College of Health Professions and Wellness. This fall, we're excited to open a new dining hall, residence hall, and the Loring and Debbie White Football Complex, all designed to enhance the student experience. And we're moving forward with the much-anticipated Randy Owen Center for the

a message from

Performing Arts, a testament to our commitment to the arts, set to open its doors in 2026.

We're making these strides toward progress with the unwavering support of our alumni and friends. To ensure the long-term financial stability of our university, we've restructured our Division for Advancement into the Division for Philanthropy and are expanding this team. Your support is instrumental in shaping the future of Jax State, and we're deeply grateful for it.

Together, we're paving the way for a brighter future.

Thank you, Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. President

ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT

GREETINGS, GAMECOCKS! Writing this message is certainly bittersweet, as it marks my final letter for the GEM of the Hills magazine. After nearly 27 years of dedicated service to Jax State, I will retire on August 1, 2024. As a proud two-time Jax State alum, I depart with a heart full of gratitude for the lifelong friendships I’ve formed. I will forever cherish my time here, knowing that this campus will always hold a special place in my heart.

I want to express my deep appreciation for your unwavering support in our enrollment endeavors. I am delighted to share that once again, we have surpassed enrollment records, with our spring enrollment hitting its peak since 2009. As alumni, we are the most influential advocates for Jax State. If you haven't already, I urge you to consider joining our Alumni Recruitment Team at jsu.edu/alumni/get-involved.

Together, we can strengthen enrollment efforts and welcome new generations into our Gamecock family.

Looking ahead, mark your calendars for the 2024 Homecoming, set for September 20-22. We invite you to join us for a weekend packed with activities, including

Jax State Family Day and Preview Day. Stay updated on all Homecoming festivities by visiting jsu.edu/homecoming.

As always, we eagerly await hearing from you.

Keep us abreast of the remarkable milestones in your life, and we will reciprocate by keeping you informed about the achievements unfolding on the campus of our alma mater.

As I bid farewell for the last time in these pages, I carry the fondest memories of our shared journey and the deepest gratitude for your unwavering support.

Until we meet again, may the spirit of the Gamecock community continue to unite us wherever life may lead.

Go Gamecocks!

Blow Southerners!

Kaci Ogle, Director of Alumni Engagement

SPRING 2024 | 3

GREETINGS, GAMECOCKS!

a message from

ON THE

COVER

JAX STATE GOES BOWLIN M

BY BRETT BUCKNER

aking history has become a competitive sport for a pair of Jax State teams. With its 34-31 overtime win against Louisiana in the R+L Carrier New Orleans Bowl on December 16, Jax State became the first football team to win a bowl game in its first year of eligibility in Division 1. Not to be outdone, almost four months later, on April 14, the Jax State bowling team won the NCAA National Championship in their inaugural season, defeating Arkansas State 4-3.

"I think it's huge, particularly because we're so small," said coach Rich Rodriquez about the Gamecocks' win. "We're in the smallest town in Division 1A football. We're one of the smallest schools, and certainly, this is all new for us, for our institution, and for our program to be at the highest level of college football and to compete for conference championships and bowl wins.

"I think our players know they made history, but

4 | GEM OF THE HILLS

the plane's intercom. "The plane went crazy," Carter said. "Everyone was screaming and recording. It was a great feeling and couldn't have come at a better time. We went from upset to ecstatic." Carter added, "We knew we made history, and we had a chance to make even greater history and finish the season with a win.

In their inaugural season playing in Division 1 Conference USA, the Gamecocks had already experienced success, going 8-4 and 6-2 in conference play. "Since I got to Jax State, I felt like we deserved to be playing on the FBS level because of the talent of guys that we had on the team in the previous years," said senior safety Jeremiah Harris, "We finally got our chance to prove that this year."

Jax State played eight nationally televised games - two on CBS Sports, five on ESPNU, and the bowl game on ESPN, with each televised game increasing both the profile of the program and the profile of the young men on the field. "Having a bigger platform and being able to showcase our talents on prime-time TV is a major deal that every kid and college athlete dreams of, especially when hoping to play at the next level," Carter said. "Not only did we beat the odds of critics who had us picked to finish second to last in our conference, but we also went on to finish third in the conference and win the first-ever bowl game in Jacksonville State History. That moment can never be taken away from us, and we accomplished all that in a one-year move," added

Carter.

Though it's impossible to define a legend while still living in the present tense, it's not hard to imagine that years from now, the fans, former players, and coaching staff will remember the December 16 New Orleans Bowl simply as "The Game." The Gamecocks were down 24-31 with less than two minutes left. They needed a touchdown to face overtime, and Carter knew the ball was coming to him. Carter said, "Right before the play started, I remember me and [Zion Webb, Gamecocks quarterback] locking eyes, so I was like, yeah, it's about to happen."

Happen it did. Carter made the catch that sent the game to overtime, where Garrison Rippa, in his first career start, kicked the game-winning 27-yard field goal.

Carter went on to say, "The fans at JSU really showed up for us this season. We love and respect them all for being there for us every game - home and away – there's so much love to the fans of JSU." For seniors like Harris, it allowed them to go out on top. "I was super excited because of what we went through throughout the season," Harris said. "To be able to set school history and be a part of the history is a great feeling.

With it being my senior season, it felt even better because I had one more chance to play in front of the Gamecock fans and family."

Making history wasn't really on anyone's mind as the team celebrated their win on the field of the iconic Caesars Superdome, hoisting up the R+L Carriers New

SPRING 2024 | 5

FEATURE STORY

NG

they'll probably appreciate it more 10, 15, or 20 years down the road."

Not to be outdone, the Jax State bowling team captured the first national title for Jax State since moving up to Division I from Division II after the 1992-93 academic year and the first since the Division II football title in 1992.

It is also the first title by a Jax State women's program since back-toback gymnastics championships in 1984 and 1985. "It's the most incredible thing and most certainly puts Jax State bowling on the map," coach Shannon O'Keefe said. "We are honored to bring this National Championship to Jax State."

At Jax State, making history is clearly a team sport. These are their stories: 'From upset to ecstatic' The most important football game in Jax State history almost didn't happen. After a heartbreaking 17-20 loss to New Mexico two days after Thanksgiving, the Gamecocks boarded a plane for home, feeling their season was over. "For us seniors, it was even harder because that's not how you want to end your college career," said Perry Carter, senior wide receiver, who transferred to Jax State from the University of Louisiana Monroe.

"When we loaded the plane, the whole team and staff was sad and upset."

About 40 minutes into the flight, Coach Rodriquez received a message that Jax State had been invited to play in the New Orleans Bowl. Coach Rodriquez stood up and made the announcement on

Orleans Bowl trophy. "I think at that moment, I don't know if they thought of it as much as making history as they just thought it was a great day, especially for our seniors," Coach Rodriquez said."

You know, the work they put in and a great day for our fans because we had a great fan following at the game, and you can feel their impact and see their excitement after the game. I think for everybody associated with Jax State, it was just a whole lot of fun to experience that."

Few could put the bowl win and the entire season in perspective better than Athletic Director Greg Seitz, who has dedicated his 31-year professional life to Jax State sports.

"I've been fortunate to see a lot of great wins at Jax State," Seitz said.

I think when you look back over time in the coming years, we will certainly have more bowl wins, but we will never have another first FBS bowl win. I think that's what makes this win so special—it was the first FBS bowl win in school history, and I'm just excited that I had a frontrow seat to experience it."

With its first bowl win in the rearview, Coach Rodriquez and his staff are focused on maintaining that momentum and building toward the future. "Our facilities are getting upgraded, and that's going to happen very quickly," he said.

"There's no question we're probably ahead of schedule. It usually takes a lot longer to get to that point, but at the same time, our expectations are now raised based on what happened last year, and I want it to be that way. I want our players to continue to stay humble and

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hungry," added Coach Rodriquez.

'Talent to spare' When the Jax State Board of Trustees approved women's bowling as its 18th varsity sport in January 2023, Athletic Director Greg Seitz knew the type of coach he wanted to hire. "We need someone who can build a program from the ground up," Seitz said at the time, "which is not an easy task.

Starting from scratch will present

nine years. She was also named the National Ten Pin Coaches Association (NTCA) Coach of the Year in seven consecutive seasons.

"When looking for a head coach to start our bowling program here at Jax State, Shannon exceeded our expectations," said Seitz when hiring O'Keefe. "Her career as a bowler and as a coach at the collegiate level is second to none, but she is also a

NEW ORLEANS BOWL CHAMPIONS 2023

some unique challenges."

Mission accomplished.

That May, Seitz hired Shannon O'Keefe, one of the top names in professional bowling. O'Keefe came to Jax State from McKendree University in Lebanon, Ill. After taking over the Bearcats in 2014, she led the team to four National Championships - two NCAA National Championships and two United States Bowling Congress (USBC) Intercollegiate Team Championships – in

top-notch person," Seitz said.

Few—except for the Gamecocks themselves—expected what happened next. On April 13, Jax State bowling won the NCAA national championship in its first year of existence. It is believed to be the first time in any sport that a team has won a national championship in its inaugural season.

"It's the most incredible thing, and we are honored to bring this national championship

to Jax State," O'Keefe said.

O'Keefe has been incredibly proud of the response from the Jax State fans. "For us, Jax State is about eight times bigger than our previous institution," O'Keefe stated. "With that being said, the overwhelming support we have received since setting foot on campus has been incredible, and we are excited for the future and what's to come." That's because

Alabama, within 20 minutes, one of the girls raised her hand and asked, "What if we want to come with you?" First, the player had to enter the transfer portal before O'Keefe could discuss Jax State, and within 24 hours, all six were in the transfer portal.

"Bryan and I both have felt this is the highest compliment we have ever received as coaches," O'Keefe said. Among those transfers was

NCAA WOMEN'S NATIONAL BOWLING CHAMPIONS 2024

O'Keefe didn't come to Jax State alone. In addition to her husband, Bryan, who coached alongside her at McKendree University, O'Keefe had nine bowlers on the roster – including six players who joined her from McKendree. "[Bryan and I] always wanted to give our girls a DI experience that their peers were getting," O'Keefe said, "and Jax State was the school that gave us that opportunity." After making their decision to leave Illinois for

Rebecca Hagerman, a 23-year-old graduate student from Loves Park, Illinois. "Shannon and Bryan are the reason I came to Jax State," she said. "That and all my best friends were coming as well. That helped.

When they told me they were going to Jax State, I knew I had two choices: either I go with them, or I'm done with college bowling. I didn't want to be done, and I knew I couldn't imagine myself bowling with another set of girls or any other coaches," added Hagerman.

Anna Warkel, a 20-year-old graduate student from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, also couldn't imagine playing for anyone else. "She is like a mother," Warkel said of O'Keefe.

"She helps you when you're down and is always encouraging. She is truly one of the best people to know, and it's a privilege to bowl with her."

O'Keefe's coaching philosophy is defined by what she calls the four Cs. "We believe in loving our girls first," she said. "They are committed to our family, so it's our responsibility to make sure they have the support they need to be successful in life. We believe in the 4 C's - Connection, Culture, Coaching, and Confidence."

Though many players came from another school, this national championship was for Jax State, explains Miranda Patterson, a 22-year-old graduate student from Redwood Valley, Calif. "It was incredible," Patterson said of winning the national championship.

"I have been on two other national championship-winning teams, and this one felt like we were bringing this championship back to the community and university. We had everyone all in and behind us. I had people asking me every week on campus how we were doing throughout the season. The amount of support we have received from the community was amazing.

The university deserves this championship," added Patterson."

SPRING 2024 | 7

JAX STATE GAMECOCKS FALL 2024

FOOTBALL homecoming PREVIEW Tickets are available for purchase online at JaxStateSports.com or by calling the ticket office at 256-782-8499.

HOME

AWAY

08.29

Coastal Carolina University

09.07 University of Louisville Special events planned for alumni and fans!

09.14 Eastern Michigan University

09.21 University of Southern Mississippi Homecoming

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10.09 New Mexico State University

10.23 Middle Tennessee State University

10.30 Liberty University

11.09 Louisiana Tech University

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FEATURE STORY

|featurestory|

PI KAPPA PHI HONORS RANDY OWEN WITH UNIVERSITY’S LARGEST CROWDFUNDING CAMPAIGN

BY BRETT BUCKNER

O

n the cover of Alabama’s hit country album “Just Us,” released in 1987, the bandmates are lined up in director’s chairs, surrounded by items defining their personalities.

Bass guitarist Teddy Gentry has a group of teddy bears around his feet while electric guitarist Jeff Cook has a fishing pole and tackle box at his side. Lead singer Randy Owen can be seen in profile, with a yellow shirt bearing the Greek letters Pi Kappa Phi draped over the back of his chair – a tribute to his Jax State fraternity.

SPRING 2024 | 9

In addition to highlighting Pi Kappa Phi on the cover of Alabama’s 11th studio album, the 1973 English alumnus often wore his Greek letters on stage. He told GEM in 2023, “I had a great experience here and made some great friends and Pi Kappa Phi brothers.”

For Jax State’s Delta Epsilon chapter of Pi Kappa Phi, the impact of their most famous alumnus on the organization is undeniable.

“The fraternity wouldn’t be here without our charter members, which included Randy,” said Bo Mundy, former chapter president and 1990 English graduate. “So we wanted to do something to honor him.”

At the request of fellow Pi Kappa Phi alumnus and Jax State Trustee Rusty Fuller, Mundy pulled together the chapter’s graduates and formed a fundraising committee determined to raise a million dollars for the future Randy Owen Center for the Performing Arts (ROC).

“One million dollars was a huge goal,” said Kim Dalesandro, planned giving officer at Jax State, who worked on the campaign. “At first, I don’t know that people really thought they would be able to do it.”

But Mundy had faith in his brothers. He and Dewayne Bowen, a 1993 management graduate, recruited a diverse group of alumni who represented the fraternity’s history from the 1970s to today. For two years, the group held Zoom meetings every Friday at 9 a.m. to report on progress. They also held “mini meetings” across the state and at Jax State football games.

“We even had a meeting at my house,” Mundy said, laughing.

“That’s the kind of dedication we

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*

PICTURED ABOVE: Members of Pi Kappa Phi’s ROC Fundraising

Committee pictured on the Houston Cole Library overlook, from left: Joe Raines, Shu Cunningham, Bobby Stewart, Bo Mundy, Randy Owen, Dewayne Bowen, Don Harris, Eric Canada and Rusty Fuller.

Not pictured: Chris Stokes.

had from the brothers to make this happen. It was a total grassroots movement – and we kicked it off during COVID.” Slowly, gifts started coming in.

“These were big donations - $100,000, $50,000, $25,000 and everything in between,” said Dalesandro. “Brothers from all over really stepped up with planned gifts, five-year gifts, one-time cash donations – everything they could do.”

Pi Kappa Phi met their $1 million commitment in June 2023 with 130 members contributing.

But they didn’t stop there. They continue to fundraise, raising an additional $32,000 at GEM’s press time.

“This is the largest crowdfunded endeavor in Jax State’s history,” Dalesandro said. “And it may go higher. I’ve been putting the donation levels on their private Facebook group, which might spur some competition when brothers see how much others have donated.

That’s what we’re betting on.”

For Mundy, the accomplishment is twofold. Fraternity members got to honor Randy Owen while also reconnecting with each

other. It was a fitting outcome for an organization with the motto, “Nothing shall ever tear us asunder.”

“The older you get, the more you look back at the great friendships and the brotherhood we had together,” Mundy said. “Then, to be back together and accomplish something that has never been done – that’s what inspired us. We got to have each other’s back again.”

If you are interested in leading a crowdfunding campaign to support a cause on campus, contact Jax State Philanthropy at 256-782-5003.

"

...to be back together and accomplish something that has never been done – that’s what inspired us. We got to have each other’s back again.

"

CAMPUS GETTING READY TO

ROC

Jax State broke ground this spring on the highly anticipated Randy Owen Center for the Performing Arts (ROC). Named in honor of one of the university’s most famous alumni - country music legend Randy Owen - the new facility is designed to inspire a love of the arts in all students, engage lifelong learners seeking to elevate their passions, and enrich the campus community.

In 2023, the university acquired the former First Baptist Church of Jacksonville, which plans to construct a new building across town. The expanded footprint adds 6.65 acres of land and nearly 51,000 square feet of building space to the property, which will allow the ROC to similarly grow programming and services.

Like Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, the former church is being repurposed into a new music center to include a 450-seat recital hall, general education classrooms, office/studios, a music academy for

the community, creative cooperative spaces and campus event spaces.

Just south of the existing structure, a 1,000-seat concert hall is under construction with a primary lobby, recording studio and backstage suite.

The world-class facility will take Jax State to the next level – rivaling any arts program in the nation. In December, the community got a sample of the kind of programming it can expect at the ROC when four country music stars performed at a benefit concert on campus. Randy Owen, Jamey Johnson, Riley Green and Gordon Mote took the stage together at Stone Center, raising funds for the ROC and student scholarships.

During the sold-out show, it was announced that Johnson is establishing a music series on campus. Led by the artist himself, the Jamey Johnson Music Series will provide cultural and educational opportunities to Jax State students – from performances

by visiting musical artists, to class talks, songwriting workshops and seminars.

“We are proud to count such a successful group of country artists among Jax State’s alumni,” said President Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. “It all started with Randy Owen, who has inspired generations of musicians across the world since his band, Alabama, redefined country music in the 1980s. The ROC will give us the opportunity to pay tribute to him while supporting the education and training of the next generation of artists.”

The anticipated opening for the ROC is slated for early 2026.

TAKE YOUR SEAT: In addition to multiple naming opportunities for spaces within the ROC, we’re running a Take Your Seat Campaign. Leave a legacy for yourself or a loved one by naming a chair in the new performance hall.

Seats are $5,000 in Rows 1-2 and $1,000 in Rows 3 and up.

Learn more at jsu.edu/roc.

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FEATURE STORY

|featurestory|

|featurestory|

NURSING WING OF SOUTH COMPLEX NAMED IN MEMORY OF 1973 ALUMNA

L

BY BRETT BUCKNER

ynne Cobb Parker could have enjoyed a career in gospel music. The Weaver, Ala., native recorded several albums with her sister and father throughout her childhood as the Bill Cobb Trio, touring with gospel greats. But she was inspired to minister to people through a different path – nursing.

Jacksonville State had just opened its nursing program when Lynne graduated from nearby Jacksonville High School. The opportunity seemed too good to be true, but she worried how she was going to fund her education.

Luckily, with her strong academic record, she was awarded a nursing scholarship. It would forever change her life.

Lynne graduated from Jax State in 1973 in the second class of nursing students ever to complete the program. Her life on campus was busy with side jobs, Phi Mu and other extracurricular activities. She launched her career at Anniston Memorial Hospital, now known as Northeast Alabama Regional Medical Center, where she enjoyed working on the med/ surgery floor.

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Her next big opportunity came when she was offered a full scholarship at the University of Alabama at Birmingham to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing. At first she commuted three days a week to Birmingham while continuing to work nights in Anniston, but ultimately, she decided to pause her career so she could finish the degree program faster. Her husband – Brock Parker – was her biggest cheerleader.

"She graduated with a 4.0 grade point average," Brock said proudly. "She even had one of her papers published in the American Journal of Nursing while still a student there."

After graduate school, Lynne accepted a position at Baptist Medical Center South in Montgomery. As the hospital's first nurse with a graduate education, they weren't sure at first how to put her talents to use. After a brief stint in staff education, she asked to be moved to the med/surgery floor.

The bonds she made there with doctors and fellow nurses would form the backbone of her future career accomplishments. She was soon asked to serve as assistant

director of nursing, then director of nursing, but she maintained her presence on the floors, making rounds.

After a few years, Lynne traded her nurse whites for a tailored suit when she was named hospital administrator of Baptist South – becoming its first woman executive.

"It was her education, work ethic and ability to communicate and develop relationships with doctors, nurses, managers, staff and – most of all – patients, that enabled her to be successful," Brock said.

During her time at Baptist, Lynne guided the hospital’s growth through many advances in healthcare. One of her significant contributions was partnering with UAB to establish a residency program to attract doctors and nurses. She was also successful at incorporating the Montgomery Cancer Center with Baptist South, as well as opening the Crossbridge Mental Health Facility. She retired

FEATURE STORY as CEO of Baptist South after 38 years in healthcare.

"It all started with a scholarship and believing in herself," Brock said.

The couple spent their retirement traveling the world. "We were very fortunate to be able to just pull the door shut and leave," Brock said. "No kids, no dogs and – most of all – no cell phones."

In what would become their last trip, a three-week cruise in Europe, Brock noticed Lynne didn’t look well. After a brief talk about flying home, Lynne said she just wanted to finish the vacation as planned. "I suspect that her years of observing symptoms told her all she needed to know," Brock said.

By the time they arrived back home in Montgomery, Lynne was very ill. She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and began treatment immediately. Sadly, on May 31, 2022, she passed.

"She was finally in the Heaven she sang about for so many years,"

Mrs. Lynne Cobb Parker

Brock said, adding that, even in her last six months of life, his wife's courage and faith served as an example to others.

When asked what made their marriage so special, Brock said theirs was a truly “synergistic relationship” and they were “worth more together than the sum of their two parts." The couple met in sixth grade and were married nearly 49 years.

“I was able to get her to close the books and have fun,” he said.

“She was able to show me there’s more to life than having fun – it has to have meaning, worth."

Though the tears still come freely, Brock knows how lucky he was to have shared a life with his

best friend. To honor her memory and support the education of future nurses, he gives back to the Jax State School of Nursing. He ensured the nursing wing of the newly renovated Jax State South Complex was named the Lynne Cobb Parker Wing. He has also established the Lynne Cobb Parker Memorial Nursing Scholarship on campus.

“I am blessed with the opportunity to contribute to the Jax State School of Nursing, where a kid from Weaver was able to flourish because of her dedication to her goals and a Jax State scholarship," Brock said. "Perhaps it will serve as an inspiration for others.”

SPRING 2024 | 13

UNIVERSITY Dedicates SOUTH COMPLEX

Five years after an EF-3 tornado destroyed Wallace Hall, the Jax State School of Nursing moved into its permanent new home at the South Complex.

Located on South Pelham Road near Walmart in the property once known as Jacksonville Hospital, the facility has been redesigned into a state-of-the-art educational center for the students, faculty and staff of the College of Health Professions and Wellness.

Renovations began on what is now known as Jax State's South Complex in 2021. The property was donated to the university by Regional Medical Center in June 2018, just a few months after the tornado, following the closure of Jacksonville Hospital. Now, Jax State’s top-ranked nursing program is united under one roof alongside the respiratory therapy and athletic training programs.

THE CHANGING FACE of CAMPUS The College of Education and Professional Studies has moved from its long-term home in Ramona Wood Hall to the former site of Kitty Stone Elementary School, now known as the CEPS Complex. With the College of Health Professions and Wellness now at South Complex, Jax State has the distinction of educating teachers in a former school and training nurses in a former hospital.

The Department of Criminal Justice and Forensic Investigation, located throughout its existence in Brewer Hall, has now moved to Ramona Wood. The dean’s office for the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences remains in Brewer Hall, as well as the Department of Social Work and the Department of Sociology and Political Science.

Coming soon, the university will open the newly constructed North Village Residence Hall, Jax State Dining Hall and the Loring and Debbie White Football Complex.

14 | GEM OF THE HILLS

Located adjacent to Crow, Patterson and Sparkman Halls, the North Village Residence Hall will add 513 much-needed beds to university housing in shared suites consisting of two private double occupancy rooms with two bathrooms in each unit. The new Jax State Dining Hall will replace the 62-year-old Jack Hopper Dining Hall. Finally, the Loring and Debbie White Football Complex will replace the existing field house at Jax State Stadium - adding new training, office and game day space. All three projects are scheduled for completion in Fall 2024.

If you haven't been to campus in a while, come visit! We continue to upgrade our 141-year-old university, while staying true to our history and traditions.

Jax State biology professor, Dr. Jimmy Triplett, recently discovered a new species of native bamboo in Alabama. Tallapoosa Cane, or Arundinaria alabamensis, is recognized as Alabama's 31st endemic vascular plant and the fourth species of native bamboo in the US. His research is published in the international science journal, "Phytotaxa."

This new bamboo species helps shed light on the history of native bamboos in the Southeastern US, including their complex ecology and genetics. Alabama is rich in biodiversity - including

fish, freshwater snails and turtles - but also plants. Tallapoosa Cane is only found in Alabama, and it is the state's fourth species of Arundinaria, ranking Alabama No. 1 in native bamboo species.

“Our native bamboos are closely related to bamboos in East Asia and highlight an interesting distribution shared with plants like magnolias, dogwoods and ginsengs, which is explained by prehistoric land bridges between continents,” Triplett said.

Triplett was also involved in the discovery of Hill Cane, Arundinaria appalachiana - also found in

AROUND WITH ALUMNI CAMPUS

Biology Professor DISCOVERS NEW PLANT

Alabama - and several other species of plants from around the world, including Japan, China, Sri Lanka and Ecuador. He is the curator of the Jax State Herbarium, a regional natural history collection of more than 70,000 plant specimens.

Caption: Tallapoosa Cane, or Arundinaria alabamensis, is the fourth species of native bamboo in the US. Photo courtesy of Dr. Jimmy Triplett.

LONGLEAF STUDIOS Wins Fourth Emmy Jax State’s Longleaf Studios is becoming a powerhouse in documentary filmmaking, recently capturing its fourth Emmy Award in partnership with Alabama Public Television (APT). The studio won a golden statuette for “The Forgotten Creeks,” which tells the story of Alabama’s Poarch Band of Creek Indians. In 2021, the program won three Emmys for “The Fire in Anniston: A Freedom Rider’s Story.”

Directed by Seth Johnson, associate dean of the College of Arts, Humanities, and Sciences,

Longleaf Studios is an experiential learning unit that provides film and communication students with hands-on learning opportunities to work on real-world projects with professional filmmakers.

Additional Longleaf films that have aired on APT include “Defending Freedom: The Arthur D. Shores Story” (2024), “Building Birmingham: The Sloss Story” (2022), “Servant Leader: The Tom Bevill Story” (2022), “Lagarde: Making Natural History” (2021) and “Forever Wild: The James D. Martin Story” (2020).

"The partnership between APT and Jax State has proven to be a continued success,” said Pete Conroy, director of strategic partnerships and projects at Jax State. “We've already collected four Emmys but, more importantly, we have been able to tell significant stories that highlight the strength and diversity of Alabama.”

Stream each film, free of charge, at aptv.org/watch.

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CENTER FOR APPLIED FORENSICS ASSISTS ALABAMA POLICE IN SOLVING HOMICIDES

BY BRETT BUCKNER

Mark Hopwood, who has spent his career helping law enforcement catch bad guys, has created a monster. “But it’s the good kind,” he said. “It’s helping a lot of people” The metaphorical beast is the Jax State Center for Applied

Forensics (CFAF), which provides rural law enforcement agencies the tools they need to unmask society’s real-life monsters. What started as a regional endeavor has grown into a statewide initiative embraced at every level of government.

The center got its start in late 2011, when budget cuts at the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences led to the closure of three offices – including one housed at Jax State McClellan – creating a void for agencies that depended on

16 | GEM OF THE HILLS

them for processing evidence.

Over dinner with the nowretired university president and provost, Dr. Bill Meehan and Dr. Rebecca Turner, Hopwood recommended that Jax State

assist local, underserved law enforcement agencies with crime scene investigations and training.

“Dr. Meehan asked me what my business plan was,” said Hopwood, CFAF director. “I told him plain and simple, my business plan is to put us out of business. When we teach and train these agencies to do their own stuff, we’ll stop getting these 2 a.m. calls to come out and look at a blood spatter or bullet wounds. When we’ve trained them, we’ve done our job.”

In 2012, the new Center for Applied Forensics moved into the space at Jax State McClellan once occupied by the state lab and began providing Northeast Alabama law enforcement agencies crime scene assistance and training in the collection and documentation of evidence. Grants from the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs supported its early efforts.

“It’s taken off more than we could have ever

imagined, because nobody has anything like it,” Hopwood said.

“We pretty much stand alone. All employees at the center have a law enforcement and a forensics background.”

The center provides education, technical expertise and investigative services to law enforcement agencies across the state, training more than 4,000 officers, processing more than 400 crime scenes and solving 324 cases to date.

It also supports the university’s Bachelor of Science in Forensic Investigations, which has grown into

established a Cold Case Program.

Led by part-time investigator Brent Thomas, a retired Alabama Bureau of Investigation agent, the program assists local agencies with cold case investigations and officer-involved shootings.

Thomas is the epitome of the old-school cop. His desk is often cluttered with yellow legal pads and musty evidence folders pulled from decades-old banker’s boxes.

“That’s where the name came from – the Center for Applied Forensics,” Hopwood said.

“Chemistry and biology classes can teach how to run toxicology screens and DNA, but we want to create the missing link. We teach them what it’s like to be out there in the middle of the night as a field mouse, collecting evidence with the most probative value, packaging it and getting it to the lab so the white coats – the lab rats – can work on it.”

To assist law enforcement agencies in closing unsolved homicide cases, the center has also

The walls are covered with homicide timelines and the names of potential suspects.

“I’ve bought him computers and laptops,” Hopwood said, “But every time I go in his office, he’s sitting there with a legal pad and pencils. Then he’ll stop and ask me

for more of those big poster boards.

It would drive me crazy going through those files, but he loves it.”

After graduating from Jax State in 1984 with a degree in production management, Thomas started his career in law enforcement as an Alabama State Trooper. In 2003, he was hired by the Jacksonville office of the ABI, where he served as a sergeant until his retirement.

“This is not a job, it’s a calling,” Thomas said. “And if this is your calling, there’s nothing else like it. But if it’s not, you won’t last very long. The hours are bad.

The money’s not that great. The

SPRING 2024 | 17

AROUND CAMPUS

one of the university’s most popular majors since its establishment in 2017.

The center leads more than 100 classes a year in forensics techniques for law enforcement professionals and Jax State students. Those enrolled have learned to check their email before commuting to class each day, to see whether their instructors have been called out to a crime scene.

JAX E T A k T c o c SGame s

said. “You never quit. You never give up. It’s always there with you.”

The center continues to grow and embrace technology to aid law enforcement. In January, its Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) went live – identifying latent fingerprints at crime scenes ranging from property crimes to homicide. The ABIS unit provides Northeast Alabama investigators access to local and federal fingerprint databases.

The center is also evaluating Augmented Reality headsets, which will allow an officer to communicate directly from a crime scene with CFAF in real time. Essentially, CFAF personnel will be able to see the same thing that the officer is looking at and provide guidance on the best way to document, process

or collect an item of evidence.

CFAF works in partnership with the university’s Center for Best Practices in Law Enforcement, Alabama Investigator Academy and Southeastern Leadership Command College to support the continuing education and training of law enforcement across the state.

It’s all part of a strategy to make Jax State the law enforcement training capital of Alabama.

“Jacksonville State has a long and established history in law enforcement training,” said Randy Jones, chair of the Board of Trustees. “We look forward to serving the state and serving citizens with the best law enforcement training in the country.”

EST 1883

HELP US RECRUIT FUTURE GAMECOCKS!

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sacrifices never end. But if this is what you love, it will never really feel like work. If you want to help people at the lowest, worst point in their lives, this is it.”

The reward for years of hard work and sleepless nights is finally finding justice for victims like Monica and Dalton Rollins. The Heflin, Ala., woman and her sixyear-old son were stabbed to death in their home in 2002, shaking the small community. Thomas, who first worked on the case for the ABI in 2003, was able to help Heflin police solve it 20 years later.

A suspect was taken into custody in June 2023 and, according to investigators, has confessed to both murders.

“A good investigator is always searching for answers,” Thomas

Do you know someone who would be a great Gamecock? Let us know about them by completing the Prospective Student Referral Form!

18 | GEM OF THE HILLS

Sign up to work with our admissions counselors to engage prospective Gamecocks in your area!

J A X S T AT E I S A N O R D S J O FA M I LY T R A D I T I O N

BY BUFFY LOCKETTE

It’s not uncommon for the children of Jax State alumni to follow their parents to campus from Rome.

But the journey is usually a one-hour drive across the Georgia state line, not a Transatlantic flight from Italy.

Dr. Egil Nordsjo, originally from Sweden, lived in Jax State's International House from 1978-1979. He said it was one of the best years of his life.

“It's difficult to sort out the best memories, but I guess getting to know all these boys and girls from different parts of the world with so many different backgrounds was the most exciting thing,” Dr. Nordsjo said. “I am still in touch with many of them.”

When he returned home, he earned a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree with a special interest in implant surgery. He and his wife, Stefania, moved to her native Rome, Italy, where he now performs dental implant surgery. He enjoyed his experience on Jax State’s campus so much that he sent his sons, Fredrik and Patrik, over to participate in the International House program.

Fredrik lived in the International House in 20151016. He said the program taught him to be more understanding of other cultures.

“It meant a lot for me – not knowing so much about Asian, South American and African cultures – to learn about other ways of thinking, dealing with problems and life while living together,” Fredrik said.

“I truly believe that’s beautiful; that’s the one of the purposes of the program.”

Fredrik initially followed in this father's footsteps when he returned home, enrolling in dental school.

He realized it wasn't the right path for him and is now studying economics in Rome. He is scheduled to graduate this year.

The latest Nordsjo to cross the Atlantic is Patrik, who has spent the past academic year on Jax State’s campus. Dr. Nordsjo moved him into the International House at the end of last summer.

"Being the third makes me really proud and happy to continue the tradition," Patrik said. "For many years,

especially when my brother was there, I've heard just good stuff about Jacksonville and the International Program. When they accepted me, I didn't hesitate one second.”

Patrik has enjoyed many of the International House traditions his father and brother did before him, like the annual UN Day Tea. He will return home soon, with not only a new global perspective, but a common bond to share with his family.

“It makes me smile to think that we all share a very similar but not identical experience,” Fredrik said. “I am always going to be grateful to my father for recommending the program, and to Jax State for giving me the chance to live it.”

*

PICTURED ABOVE: (Top) Dr. Egil Nordsjo, who lived in

the International House in 1979, moved his youngest son, Patrik, to campus last summer. His eldest son, Fredrik, also completed the program in 2016. (Bottom) The Nordsjo family, from left: Stefania, Patrik, Egil and Fredrik with the family dog, Toby.

SPRING 2024 | 19

WITH ALUMNI

ROMAN GAMECOCKS:

MARK YOUR CALENDAR Stay up to date on alumni chapter events at jsu.edu/alumni

SEPT. 20-22

OCT. 24

Homecoming Weekend, Family Day, Jax State Preview Day for Prospective Students, Black Alumni Weekend

President Killingsworth’s 4th Annual Cocky Classic Golf Tournament

OCT. 6

NOV. 15-16

UN Day Team presented by the International House and Programs

Marching Southerners/Ballerinas Reunion Weekend

OCT. 23 Jax State Preview Day for Prospective Students

Connect with the Alumni Association! /JSUALUMNIASSOCIATION /JSUALUMNI

/JSU_Alumni

DID YOU KNOW THE NATIONAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION HAS SEVERAL ALUMNI NETWORKS FOR YOU TO CONNECT WITH? The Atlanta Area Alumni Network has been reorganized into the North Metro Area, led by Chris Stokes (’11), and the South Metro Area.

We are currently seeking leadership team members for both areas. Let us know if you are interested in getting involved.

ADDITIONAL ALUMNI NETWORKS:

LEARN MORE ABOUT EACH NETWORK AT JSU.EDU/ALUMNI

• Art • North Metro Atlanta Area • South Metro Atlanta Area • Auburn/Opelika Area • Ballerina Alumni • Birmingham Area • Black Alumni • Blount County • Calhoun County • Central Alabama Area • Color Guard Alumni • Etowah County • GOLD (Graduates of Last Decade)

• Greek Alumni • Grey Echelon • Huntsville Area • J-Club (former athletes) • LatinX Alumni • LGBTQ+ Alumni • Marshall County • Omega Psi Phi Alumni • Rome, GA Area • ROTC Alumni • Sigma Phi Epsilon Alumni • Society 24 (Student Alumni Chapter) • West Georgia Alumni

SEPTEMBER 2 0 - 21

FRIDAY, SEPT. 20 » Class of 1974 “Golden Gamecock” 50-year Celebration » ROTC Alumni Banquet » Soccer Alumni Game

SATURDAY, SEPT. 21 » Homecoming Parade » Jax State Family Day » Jax State Preview Day for Prospective Students » Jax State vs. Southern Mississippi with Halftime Recognition of Alumni of the Year Award Winners and Homecoming Court For more details on Homecoming, visit jsu.edu/homecoming

Please note, the International House and Program’s annual UN Day will be held on Sunday, Oct. 6 this year.

N O M I N AT E S O M E O N E F O R T H E

ALU M N I O F T H E YEAR AWARD S Help us recognize our outstanding alumni by nominating someone you know for the 2025 Jax State Alumni of the Year awards organized by the Alumni Association.

Categories include: » Alumnus of the Year » Alumna of the Year » Military Alum of the Year » Young Alum of the Year (ages 40 and younger) Visit jsu.edu/alumni for awards criteria and nomination forms.

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PICTURED ABOVE: 2023 Alumni of the Year with President Killingsworth.

From left to right- Susie Pinkard, Col. Peter Hu, President Killingsworth, Megan Treglown, and Mike Suco.

SPRING 2024 | 21

WITH ALUMNI

S AV E T H E D AT E

HOMEcomimg '24

J A X S TAT E V S . S O U T H E R N M I S S

REUNITING WITH GLOBAL GAMECOCKS Nearly a hundred International House alumni and their guests visited campus in October for a stateside reunion weekend. Festivities included a campus tour, a reception at the President's House, a picnic at the International House and a reunion dinner featuring performances by international students.

Working to engage our young alumni, in April the university hosted a Young Alumni Reunion at the International House. A great group of alumni joined us on campus for a reception and a cookout.

This summer, we are hosting an international reunion in Paris to mark the 75th anniversary of the program. Established on campus in 1946 at the end of World War II to foster global peace and understanding, the International Program's first participants were from France. Due to the global pandemic, the 75th anniversary reunion was postponed in 2021 until June 2024.

This is the second International House Reunion to be held in France.

In 2006, we celebrated the 60th

22 | GEM OF THE HILLS

anniversary of the program in Paris as well - with alumni joining us from throughout Europe. We are excited to welcome alumni to Paris again this summer, in conjunction with the Marching Southerners' trip to Normandy and France to perform at the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

Celebrates

50 YEARS

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On May 12, 1973, seven trailblazing women came together to charter the first black Greek letter organization on Jax State’s campus. The chartering line of the Kappa Beta chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Ufor R more BEG I NGreek NING Sorority, Inc. opened a O door black organizations to establish themselves at Jax State.

Today, there are eight National Pan-Hellenic Council chapters on campus with more than 100 student members. In Fall 2023, current chapter Jacksonville Statemembers University and alumnae of Kappa Beta May came 12, back1973 to campus to celebrate this 50-year milestone. Congratulations to the women of ladies Deltachartered Sigma Theta Inc.!

These the firstSorority, Black Greek Organization on the campus.

SPORTS WITH ALUMNI

DELTA SIGMA THETA

CHARTER LINE

PICTURED ABOVE: Top Left: Current members and alumnae returned to campus to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Kappa Beta chapter. Top Right: On May 12, 1973, Glenda Green Elston, Yvonne Green Gilley, Sandra Lanier Gunter, Carole Jackson, C. Denise Jackson, Sandra Isom Jackson, Sidney Fox Reid Long chartered the Kappa Glendaand Green Elston Carole Jackson Beta chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the first black greek organization on Jax State's campus.

Looking for a tax-savvy way to make charitable contributions? A Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) allows individuals, aged 70 or older, to donate funds from their Individual Retirement Account (IRA) directly to a qualified charity. The distribution isn't included in your taxable income, providing a tax benefit while also fulfilling your philanthropic goals.

Yvonne Green Gilley

C. Denise Jackson

Sandra Lanier Gunter(ΩΩ)

Sandra Isom Jackson

Protect What Matters Most

Sidney Fox Reid Long

Scan to make your Planned Gift today

Making a planned gift is a wonderful way to show your support and appreciation for Jax State and its mission while accommodating your own personal, financial, estate-planning and philanthropic goals. With smart planning, you may even increase the size of your estate and/or reduce the tax burden on your heirs. Just as important, you will know that you have made a meaningful contribution to Jax State and its students.

SPRING 2024 | 23

Alan Medders NAMED VICE PRESIDENT FOR PHILANTHROPY

D

BY BUFFY LOCKETTE

r. Alan Medders, who served as interim vice president of advancement from July to November 2023, was appointed vice president for philanthropy by the Board of Trustees – bringing with him 30 years of higher education leadership experience.

This decision reflects a title change for the Jax State Division of Advancement as well as its senior leader.

The division is now be known as the Division for Philanthropy, led by the vice president for philanthropy.

“The board and I are pleased Dr. Medders agreed to continue serving in this role for the long term,” said Jax State President Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. “He has a strong track record of securing major gifts at peer universities throughout his impressive career. We feel he will play a vital role in advancing the university in the years ahead.”

Medders has served as vice president of advancement at three universities over his career, including Campbellsville University in Kentucky, the University of North Alabama and Columbus State University. Since 2017, he has served as principal of Higher Education Leadership Search.

Native to Anniston, Medders completed his undergraduate education at Samford University upon graduating from Anniston High School in 1980. After receiving a Bachelor of Arts, he began his career in ministry, earning a Master of Divinity and a Doctor

of Ministry from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kentucky. He received a Ph.D. in higher education administration from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville in 2013.

In his new role, Medders provides senior leadership for the Division for Philanthropy, with oversight of the university’s fundraising, alumni relations, and marketing and strategic communications efforts.

He also serves as executive director of the Jax State Foundation.

“I was honored to serve in the interim role as I am now to assume the permanent position,” Medders said. “I am excited about the university’s philanthropic opportunities and what I believe we can achieve at Jacksonville State.”

Medders resides in Anniston with his wife of 38 years, Jax State alumna Denise Huckaby Medders, with whom he shares two daughters, Alison and Andrea, as well as two grandchildren.

The Office for Philanthropy, rebranded from the Development Office in November 2023, serves as a strategic hub for fundraising, donor relations and stewardship activities - ultimately advancing the mission, vision and goals of the university. This newly revamped department is designed to foster a culture of cultivating and stewarding relationships with alumni and donors in an effort to help them achieve their philanthropic goals. All philanthropic efforts are aimed at ensuring long-term financial sustainability for the university, allowing it to continue investing in academic programming, student scholarships, faculty development, facilities and so much more.

PHILANTHROPY

Kelli J. Holmes N A M E D A S S O C I AT E VICE PRESIDENT FOR PHILANTHROPY

BY BUFFY LOCKETTE

Kelli J. Holmes has joined Jacksonville State as associate vice president for philanthropy. The Jax State alumna returns to campus from the University of Montevallo, where she served as executive director of advancement and adjunct professor of marketing in the Michael E. Stephens College of Business.

“Kelli has a genuine passion for philanthropy and a proven track record of fundraising success as well as developing and implementing successful fundraising strategies,” said Dr. Alan Medders, vice president for philanthropy. “We are excited to have her on board and returning to her alma mater and believe her experience in stewarding donor relationships, leading crossfunctional teams and campaign execution will be a major asset as we work to increase the level of philanthropy at Jax State.”

Native to Pelham, Ala., Holmes earned a BA in communication from Jax State in 2000. She also

earned an MBA from the University of Montevallo and a certificate in nonprofit management from UAB. Holmes began her career in public relations as an account supervisor at O2ideas. After seven years with the Birmingham-based agency, she joined Easter Seals of Birmingham to serve as director of development and marketing.

Using her talent for relationship building, she served as director of employer outreach at the University of Alabama at Birmingham before joining the University of Montevallo in 2015.

Her many accomplishments at Montevallo included acquiring the university’s largest cash gift, $1 million, and second and third largest planned gifts, totaling $3.5 million. She also led a $32 million capital campaign for the university and served as a co-writer of a groundbreaking seven-year, $25 million Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) grant.

In her new role at Jax State, Holmes oversees the university’s fundraising, alumni relations and communications efforts, working collaboratively with all university colleges and departments to provide strategic direction and support in addressing fundraising and communication initiatives that meet their individual needs.

“I’m thrilled to be returning to my alma mater as associate vice president for philanthropy, a role that allows me to give back to the institution that shaped my journey,” stated Holmes. “My past 23 years of experiences have uniquely prepared me for this position, and I am honored to contribute to the growth and success of the institution that has always held a special place in my heart."

Holmes currently resides in Helena with her husband, Daniel, and their two children.

SPRING 2024 | 25

Young Alum Supports Three Scholarships on Campus

BY BRETT BUCKNER

B

y his own admission, Philip Tice was that student in class. The one who always had his hand raised. The one who read the chapter before class, not after.

“I’m a very deliberate person,” said Tice, who graduated from Jax State in 2019 with a finance degree. “When I was in class, I was fully present. I was there to learn the skills I needed

26 | GEM OF THE HILLS

to succeed. In that, Jax State gave me everything I wanted.”

Tice wanted to give back to the school that has given him so much, so he’s made a donation to support three scholarships on campus.

“My parents couldn’t afford to send me to college,” said the first-generation college graduate. “I was given this opportunity, and I

“I really enjoyed it,” he said. “I was good at it, made pretty good money doing it – enough to pay for my housing during the first year of school.”

Tice received a full scholarship to Jax State in 2015, but things could have turned out differently. He almost attended Troy University – he had even gone so far as to register for classes – when he and a friend decided to take a last-minute summer road trip to Jacksonville.

As soon as he arrived on campus, he felt at home.

“It just felt right,” Tice said. “The campus was homey and had a real small-town feel.

I knew it was a place where I could make connections with professors and other students.”

He was active in student life during his four years on campus. In addition to serving as president of the Student Alumni Association, he was a member of the Financial Management Association and a founding member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. He even rents an offcampus property to its members, which serves as its unofficial fraternity house.

“I always wanted to invest in real estate,” he said. “Because it’s basically student housing, there’s a guarantee of tenants, the rent is good.

It just made a lot of sense.”

Given his early aspirations, it’s no wonder Tice chose to major in finance at Jax State.

“I wanted something that, no matter what I chose to do after school, would be beneficial for the rest of my life,” he said. “I’d long decided that I’d never work for somebody, I was going to be an entrepreneur. So, with finance, I’d learn how to invest and do the most with my money.”

Tice takes that same pragmatic approach to donating to his alma mater.

“We all play a role in something bigger than ourselves,” he said. “We all have a responsibility to help pave the way for the people who come after us. And that’s not just at Jax State. That’s everything in life – leave it better than you found it.”

SPRING 2024 | 27

PHILANTHROPY

want to try and repay that by investing in those who come after me. I can’t control what they do with that opportunity, but I can make sure it’s there.”

Tice stipulated that one of the scholarships be named in honor of Alan Renfroe, who retired from Jax State as the assistant director of the Office of Alumni Engagement the year Tice graduated.

Renfroe advised the Student Alumni Association and Tice served as its president.

“He was a really good friend and helped me a lot during my time at Jax State,” Tice said. “I wanted him to have a legacy.”

Hunter Turner, a Jax State philanthropy officer and former classmate of Tice, said it’s inspiring to see one of her peers give back at such a young age.

“It's remarkable to witness recent graduates stepping up to support their alma mater so early in their careers, showcasing their appreciation for the education they received and their commitment to giving back to the university that played a pivotal role in shaping their lives,” Turner said. “This dedication is a true testament to the quality of education and the enduring bond forged between alumni and their alma mater.”

Tice, 27, lives in Dallas, Tex., where he’s a sales professional with Cutco Cutlery, a company he’s worked for since the summer he graduated from Sylacauga High School.

Red Tie

DINNER + AUCTION The Office of Alumni Engagement hosted Jax State's seventh annual Red Tie Dinner and Auction on Feb. 2. The donor recognition and fundraising event generated more than $236,000 benefiting specific colleges, departments, programs and scholarships across campus through the Jax State Annual Fund. A record-setting crowd of around 360 guests established and fully funded a brand new Red Tie Endowed Scholarship during the live auction at the event.

An elite group of Jax State supporters kicked off a new year of annual fundraising while recognizing loyal annual donors. The formal event featured dinner, silent and live auctions, and entertainment. The guest list for this invitation-only event includes leadership level annual donors and university leadership. Corporate and individual sponsorship donations help manage the

28 | GEM OF THE HILLS

cost of the event, ensuring that all proceeds go directly enhance the Jax State student experience.

The eighth Red Tie Dinner and Auction is scheduled for Feb. 7, 2025, in the Jax State Recreation and Fitness Center. The Office of Alumni Engagement encourages all those who support Jax State with annual gifts to consider maintaining and increasing leadershiplevel giving of $2,500 or more in the calendar year to secure your invitation to next year’s Red Tie event.

The Annual Fund is the cornerstone of philanthropy at Jax State. Through various means, the Jax State Annual Fund solicits gifts annually from alumni, friends, corporations, foundations and government entities to support and enhance the various colleges and programs of the university.

BIRTHS 2020-2023 1 Brittany Harper White (’21) and Justin White (’21) welcomed Joseph Baker White into their family on September 13, 2023.

Brittany is a sister of Zeta Tau Alpha and has worked as assistant director of engagement in the Alumni Office at Jax State for two years.

Justin was in the Honors Program, was involved with Baptist Campus Ministry, and is a brother of Pi Kappa Alpha. He is a real estate agent with Keller Williams Realty Group and a labor and delivery nurse at Anniston RMC. 2 Bart Tapp (’11) and his wife Ashley Tapp welcomed Knox Elise Tapp into their family on January 26, 2023.

3 Meg Nevels Nippers

('15) and Joshua Nippers ('15) celebrated the first birthday of their daughter, Addison Elsie, on June 14, 2023. Joshua is a project manager for Northrop Grumman.

Meg was a member of the Student Alumni Association and served as president of Zeta Tau Alpha.

4 Katie (Little) Calvert (‘20) and Joseph Calvert welcomed their first baby boy, Townley Jay

Calvert, on September 4, 2023. Katie is a sister of Zeta Tau Alpha and works for Southern Veterinary Partners as a recruiter.

5 Aubrey Traffanstedt

Nelson (’22) and Tanner Nelson (’19, ’22) celebrated the arrival of baby Grayson Traff Nelson on August 25, 2023. Tanner is the head football coach at Sylvania High School.

Aubrey is a sister of Zeta Tau Alpha and teaches at Collinsville Elementary School.

WEDDINGS 6 Cara Davis Bishop (‘09, ‘11) and Charley Bishop (‘10) married on November 4, 2023. Cara was a member of Phi Mu Fraternity and currently teaches first grade at Boaz Elementary School.

Charley was a member of Delta Chi fraternity and currently serves as a safety consultant for Lyons HR. 7 Kelly Nicole Martin (’15) married Fernando Sebastian Mendez (’15) on December 31, 2023.

Kelly was a GO! Leader, Ambassador, and president of Spanish Club.

Sebastian was a member of the International Student Organization, lived at the International House for four years, and is now president

of the Latinx Alumni Chapter. Dr. William A. Meehan, 11th president of Jax State, performed the wedding ceremony.

8 Rebecca Turner ('10) married Andrew Williams ('89) on March 19, 2022. Rebecca was an employee of Jax State for 18 years as a career advisor. Andrew is Chief Operating Officer at Libra Industries.

9 Jasmine George (’11) married Ellaway Amiker, IV on September 30, 2023. Jasmine was involved in SGA, was a Peer Educator, and a Resident Assistant. She is also a sister of Delta Sigma Theta sorority.

The couple own The Milan Method Aerial Dance and Fitness Studio and The A-team Event Rental and Decor in Atlanta, Ga. 10 Bailey Harper Wallace (’23) and Cole Wallace (’21) married on December 17, 2023.

Bailey is a sister of Zeta Tau Alpha and works as a kindergarten teacher while Cole teaches world history in middle school.

and five grandchildren.

They reside in Antioch, Tenn. Bill was Jax State's first track and field athlete to qualify for the National Track and Field Championship, as well as the first Jax State track athlete inducted into the Jax State Athletics Hall of Fame. He still holds the Jax State record in the men's high jump.

12 Lauren Watson Myrick (’23) and Mason Myrick (’22) were married on November 11, 2023. Lauren is a sister of Phi Mu, and Mason is a brother of Pi Kappa Alpha. While at Jax State, Lauren and Mason were both Gamecock Orientation Leaders.

Mason was also in the Honors Program.

13 Bethany Johnson Wooten (’23) married Jacob Wooten (’22) on December 9, 2023.

Bethany is a sister of Zeta Tau Alpha and teaches preschool.

Jacob is a brother of Pi Kappa Alpha and works as a financial aid counselor at Jax State.

11 William “Bill” Anthony Smith (’72) and Margaret Williams Smith (attended 19701971), celebrated 50 years of marriage on September 29, 2023.

They share two sons, William “Billy” Smith II and Kristofer Smith,

SPRING 2024 | 29

ALUMNOTES

ALUMnotes

1

2

3

6 4 5

10

1. Joseph Baker White 2. Knox Elise Tapp 3. Addison Elsie Nippers 4. Townley Jay Calvert 5. Grayson Traff Nelson 6. Cara Davis (‘09, ‘11) and Charley Bishop (‘10)

30 | GEM OF THE HILLS

9

8

7

11

12

13

8. Rebecca Turner ('10) and Andrew Williams ('89)

11. Bailey Harper Wallace (’23 and Cole Wallace (’21)

9. Jasmine George (’11) and Ellaway Amiker, IV

12. Lauren Watson (’23) and Mason Myrick (’22)

10. William “Bill” Anthony Smith (’72) and Margaret Williams Smith (attended 1970-1971)

13. Bethany Johnson Wooten (’23) and Jacob Wooten (’22)

Jennifer Baker (’98, ’01, ’03) has been named Uniserv director for the Alabama Education Association, District 14, serving all members in Calhoun, Cleburne, and Randolph Counties.

Brooke Beecham (‘05) has been named the academic director of the Alabama School for the Blind. She has also served as an elementary education teacher at Victory Christian School in Pell City, Ala., and a collaborative special education teacher at Oxford Middle School in Oxford, Ala. Ken Boyd (’74), a renowned photographer, had his work featured at Sloss Furnaces in Birmingham in July and August. His work, techniques and reviews have been extensively published in books, magazines and journals. He is the author of several commercially released and widely distributed books, including “Historic Watermills of North America,” “Historic North American Locomotives” and “The Art of the Locomotive.”

He currently teaches photography courses at Samford University and previously taught at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Thomas “Tab” Brown (’12, ‘14) was named director of bands for the Sound of the Seven Hills at Rome High School in Rome, Ga., where he

has served as assistant director since 2016.

The former Marching Southerners drumline captain also works as a professional musician, performing with the Sugar Hill Gang, Trapt, Theory of a Deadman and Aclarion.

Dr. Frank Buck (’81) was inducted as an honorary member into the Rho Chapter of Phi Beta Mu, an honorary organization for outstanding band directors. He served as a middle school band director for 12 years before becoming a school administrator.

His honorary induction is for work as historian for the Alabama Music Educators Association and similar work for Phi Beta Mu. He was a member of the Marching Southerners.

Najsha Corbett (’13, ‘17) has been named community development planner for the City of Gadsden, after serving as community development director for the East Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission.

Spann Cordle (’12), a nationally recognized disability spokesperson, and his late service dog, Finn, were honored for their advocacy in Summerville, Ga., in February 2023. Spann and Finn are known for being the first associate/service dog team in Walmart history.

Stacey Crabtree (’89) has been promoted to

Senior Vice President at First Southern State Bank.

Dr. Steven Craft (‘02) has been named assistant superintendent for student services and activities for Dalton Public Schools in Dalton, Ga. He has more than 24 years of education experience, most recently serving as athletic director for Fulton County Schools in Atlanta.

Deidra Walker Crain (’04) has earned her Ph.D. in educational policy from Texas Tech University. She currently works as the principal of Pelham, Alabama Virtual School.

Emily Bonds Davey, J.D. (‘87) was selected as the director of clinics, externships and public interest at Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law. She is a sister of Alpha Xi Delta and was a Marching Ballerina and active in Baptist Campus Ministry.

Cynthia Bailey Denham (’68) retired as director of the Humanities Division and English instructor at Snead State Community College after 52 years of service.

She earned a Master of Arts in English from the University of Alabama in 1970 and a Ph.D. in English from Auburn University in 1986.

14 A song by James Mason Fox (’19), “Fall Again,” was featured on the Season 5 Finale episode of Netflix’s “Love is Blind” in October.

He wrote “Fall Again” while attending Jax State, where he was a member of the Marching Southerners Color Guard.

15 Kelly Raw Gindlesperger (’07, ’08) published a children’s book, “Meet Me in my Dreams,” with her daughter, Bailey, in December. The book is inspired by the many creative stories Bailey describes to her parents at bedtime. While at Jax State, Kelly played on the softball team and was involved with the Baptist Campus Ministry.

Her husband, Derek, was a member of the Marching Southerners.

16 Eddie Gwin (’87) and his wife, Chandra, opened Pizza Ed in Hartselle, Ala., in 2019, and added a second location in Guntersville in August 2023. Eddie is a brother of Pi Kappa Phi.

Monaleto C. Irby (’97) was elected international director of collegiate affairs for Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., during the fraternity’s International Conclave held in Houston in July.

In this role, he is responsible for the expansion and revitalization of collegiate chapters. At Jax State, he was president of Phi Beta Sigma, a member of the football team, sang in the Gospel Choir and was involved with SGA. Coach Bill Jones (’66) has been named to the Gulf South Conference 2024 Hall of Fame Class.

SPRING 2024 | 31

ALUMNOTES

ALUM NOTES

17 Alli Davis Justice (’15) was selected by the Delta Zeta sorority as a 2023 recipient of the 35 Under 35 award. She teaches special education for Fort Payne City Schools

Dr. Lester Laminack (’77, ’78) is celebrating 46 years in the education field. He earned a doctoral degree from Auburn University in 1983 and has worked as an elementary school teacher, a college professor and department head. He continues to work with children and educators today as a consultant and writer, publishing more than 25 books for children and teachers. Learn more at www.lesterlaminack. com.

Karissa Lang (‘09) has been named Alabama’s 2023 National Distinguished Principal by the National Association of Elementary School Principals. She is principal of Crestline Elementary School in Hartselle, Ala. Buffy Lockette (’21) has been named Manager of Associate Communications at Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED, Inc. Dr. Joshua Lowe (’99) has been named Chief of Staff for the Forsythe County School Board.

Brandi Maiorino (’05) became a partner in Husch Blackwell law firm’s real estate team in September. Based

32 | GEM OF THE HILLS

in Nashville, she is a transactional real estate attorney who advises developers, owners, investors and tenants on a variety of real estaterelated transactions. She is a sister of Alpha Xi Delta.

Marie Manning (’70, ‘78) has been elected to the Alabama State Board of Education, representing District 6. She is the first woman to serve on the board from St. Clair County, where she has spent most of her five-decade career in education - serving as a middle science teacher, librarian, assistant principal, principal and county superintendent before retiring. She has spent the past 12 years on the St. Clair County Board of Education.

18 Steve May (’81) was appointed as vice president and general manager of Conecuh Brands LLC. He is a brother of Kappa Sigma and was involved in Baptist Campus Ministry and SGA while at Jax State.

Captain Emily McCullars (’06) has become the first woman to earn the rank of Captain in the Anniston Police Department.

Dr. Emily Messer ('05, '07) was named the first woman president of Texas Wesleyan University in Fort Worth, Tex. She previously served as vice president for advancement and enrollment management at Jax State.

19 Randee Jeske Miller (’16) was selected by Delta Zeta sorority as a 2023 recipient of the 35 Under 35 award.

She is a solution engineer at GEO Jobe GIS Consulting. She was a member of the Student Alumni Association.

Joseph Munster (’05, ’08) has been promoted to Senior Philanthropy Officer at Jacksonville State University’s Division of Philanthropy.

Dr. Eric V. Muth ('91, 93', 06') was awarded a Ph.D. in interdisciplinary engineering, environmental health, from the University of Alabama at Birmingham on in 2022.

His dissertation was “Evaluation of a Living Shoreline Technique on a Southeastern United States Reservoir.” He has been marred to fellow Jax State alum Ashley ('93, '96) for 29 years and has two children, Talon and Ty. Willie Orr (’99) has been named chief deputy of the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, where he was first hired as deputy sheriff in 2017 before being promoted to patrol lieutenant in 2019 and chief investigator in 2021. Though native to the area, he has spent most of his law enforcement career in Calhoun, Cleburne and Talladega Counties.

Sam Payne (’21, ‘23), a former member of the Gamecock Rifle Team, has been promoted to product specialist at

Creedmoor Sports in Anniston, Ala. Dr. Jennifer Mueller Phillips (’94) has been appointed as Dean of the Auburn University Raymond J. Harbert College of Business.

Lisa Puckett (‘06) has been named coordinator of the South College and Career Academy at Carroll County Schools in Georgia. She previously served as assistant principal of Mount Zion High School in Carrollton, Ga. Evelyn Rucker (’15, ‘17) has been named director of intercultural affairs at Western Carolina University. She began her career in student affairs at Eastern Kentucky University.

Coach Mark Sanders (’97) coaches Helena High School softball.

At Jax State, he played on the baseball team.

He and his wife, Dawn, recently established a scholarship at Jax State, the Coach Mark and Dawn Sanders Scholarship, for students studying health and physical education.

Teresa Sauls (’93, ‘95) has been named principal of East Newton Elementary School in Covington, Ga., after serving as assistant principal at three area schools: Clements Theme School, West Newton Elementary and – most recently – Mansfield Elementary.

She is a sister of Delta Zeta.

14

ALUMNOTES

15

17

16

18

19 20

21 22

14. James Mason Fox (’19) 15. Kelly Raw Gindlesperger (’07, ’08) 16. Eddie Gwin (’87) 17. Alli Davis Justice (’15) 18. Steve May ('81) 19. Randee Jeske Miller ('16) 20. Brandon Tyler Sims ('19) 21. Hardy Smith's ('75) "Stop the Nonprofit Board Blame Game: How to Break the Cycle of Frustrating Relationships and Benefit from Fully Engaged Boards" 22. Keith Young's (’85) “The Instructional Coaching Handbook: 200+ Troubleshooting Strategies for Success”

SPRING 2024 | 33

20 Brandon Tyler Sims (’19) is a physical education teacher at TR Simmons Elementary in Jasper, Ala. At Jax State, he was the first African American male student to win the Most Outstanding Student Award in Human Sciences, as well as the first male and first African American male to serve as a representative on the Advisory Board for the Family Consumer Sciences/ Human Sciences Concentration.

100 athletes from 1883 to 1983 at Jax State.

21 Hardy Smith (’75) published, “Stop the Nonprofit Board Blame Game: How to Break the Cycle of Frustrating Relationships and Benefit from Fully Engaged Boards,” in 2023. After a long career in NASCAR racing, the Talladega native now works nationwide as a consultant and speaker for nonprofits, associations, and chambers of commerce. He was on the track and field team at Jax State.

Bryant Whaley (’11, ‘13) has been selected as economic director of the City of Prattville, Ala., after serving in the same position in Randolph County, Ala., for the past five years. In addition to his bachelor’s in political science and MPA from Jax State, he is pursuing a Ph.D. in public administration at Liberty University. He served as SGA president in 2010 and 2012 and is a brother of Kappa Alpha.

Gary Wagner (’77) was inducted into the Huntsville-Madison County Athletic Hall of Fame in April 2023, noted for his quickness and ability. He ended his football career at Jax State with a combined punt/field goal/ extra point block record of 17 in two seasons, which helped him make the Gulf South All-Conference Team, Little All-American and Most Valuable Defensive Lineman. He was selected as one of the best

(’85), published “The Instructional Coaching Handbook: 200+ Troubleshooting Strategies for Success” in March 2023. The handbook addresses common hiccups that prevent productive coaching conversations from happening in the first place. He was involved in Baptist Campus Ministry at Jax State.

34 | GEM OF THE HILLS

Nicole Killough Walden (’92, ’93) has been named associate commissioner of the Alabama Department of Mental Health, Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Division.

She previously served as the substance abuse treatment and development director for the agency. She is married to Scott Walden and has two children, Nicholas and Ava.

22 Keith Young

OBITUARIES

Roger Measles, 9/15/2023, Building Services

EMPLOYEES Dr. Jerald Abercrombie (’64), Mathematics and Computer Science Professor Kay Gray Hutchison Baggett (’68), 2/13/2023, Instructor Dee Anne Stokes Barclift (’75), 5/2/2023, Social Work Professor Dr. Ralph Brannen (’55), 8/30/2023, History Professor Ret. Col. Buford “Pete” Brooks (’54), 2/7/2024, Alumni Director, Football, Basketball, ROTC David Ronald Copeland (’62), Basketball, Continuing Education Stanley Evan Easton, 7/10/2023, Education Professor

Dr. Sandra McCurdy Stone (’69, ’73, ’80), 7/18/2023, Child Development Center, Alpha Xi Delta Lt. Col. William E. “Bill” Stone (’69), 10/25/2023, Professor of Military Science, Football, ROTC, Delta Chi Dr. Thomas Leyden Padgett (’53), 11/16/2023, Education Professor Bonnie Elizabeth Brewer Thornhill, 1/6/2024, Nursing Professor

UNKNOWN/ATTENDED, NO DEGREE William P. Alixiou, 1/27/2023 Cynthia Kay Baggett, 9/17/2023 Gary Dale Battles, 10/6/2023

Dr. Portia L. Foster, 8/15/2023, Nursing Professor

Roger Lamar Beck, Sr. ,11/23/2023

Helen Marie Phillips Hilton, 1/11/2023

Leslie Ray “Les” Boling, 6/18/2023, Southerners

Barbara Powell LeMay, 3/23/2023, English Professor

Toni Box, 5/14/2023

Mary Virginia “Ginger” Ryan Matthews (’66), 1/31/2023, Business Professor

Dixie Brown, 9/4/2023

Tonya McGowan (’10), 6/30/2023, Jax State Small Business Development Center, Alpha Kappa Alpha

Rudolph Lee Braden, 10/17/2023

Wayne Leroy Brown, 1/23/2024 Phillip Wayne Campbell, 11/1/2023

Dora Nesbitt Chaffin, 3/5/2023 Kathryn Chastain, 11/25/2023 Kelly Mitchell Cobb, 7/24/2022 Tim Davis, 8/30/2023, Southerners Gary Clinton Dickey, 2/11/2024 Elbert Allen Dodd 10/10/2023 Robert R. Durfield III, 2/1/2024 Rebecca “Becky” Witherspoon Elkins, 6/23/2023 Virginia CarolDeJarnette Elliot, 11/11/2023 Thomas Lane Farmer, 10/25/2023 Jack Christian “Cliff” Furr, Jr., 8/1/2023, Football Paula M. Hagan, 2/3/2024, Southerners/ Ballerinas

Dr. Thomas Edward Hughes, 10/9/2023, Southerners Danny Homer Jacks, 12/10/2023 Suzanne Jackson, 12/7/2023 Staff Sgt. Brent Allen Jones, Sr., 6/6/2023 Michelle Denise Hamilton Johnson, 6/22/2023 Sharron Elizabeth “Beth” Jones, 3/31/2023, Southerners

Shane Edward Nixon, 1/18/2024

Kenneth V. Tankersley, 1/20/2024

Michael J. Parker, 1/21/2024

Hoyt Lee Taylor, II, 1/17/2024

Sara Hampton Patterson,1/21/2023

James Albert “Jim” Taylor, 10/26/2023

Carolyn Phillips, 4/13/2023

John Allen Teague, Sr., 5/14/2023

Steven Lee Poe, 1/9/2023

Thomas Lewis “Tommy” Thompson, Jr., 12/4/2023

Anne Elizabeth Little Priest, 2/5/2023

Michael Anthony Urioste, Jr., 7/26/2023

Wanda Sue Reaves Ray, 1/16/2024

Carl E. Vann, 12/26/2023

Rose Elizabeth Shewbart Ledbetter, 12/9/23, Southerners

Sally Jean Redden, 2/17/2023, Southerners

Dane Calvin Vickers, 3/17/2023

Robert Thomas “Bobby” “Red” Lee, 8/18/2023

Allison LaShaun Parker Reynolds, 3/5/2023

Dustin Scott Warren, 10/7/2023

Earl Franklin Lockette, 10/17/2023

Robert “Bobby” Rigsby, 3/21/2023

Norma Joyce Watson, 12/23/2023

Britt Brown Madden, 2/16/2023

Brian Harold Roper, 1/24/2023

Carolyn Pitts Weader, 10/28/2023

Robert Allen Malone, 10/6/2023

Senior Airman Terry Earl “TJ” Sams, Jr., USAF, 3/26/2023

Elizabeth Ann Weaver, 1/13/2024

Sylvia Strickland Malone, 11/20/2023 Alexander S. Mandli, Sr., 1/11/2024, Football

Bobby Leonard Sanderson, 8/11/2023 Sara H. Shaddix, 1/19/2024

Betty Ann Weaver, 1/21/2023 Ralph Ernest Whitmore 6/3/2023, BCM

Carey Lee Harden, 11/13/2023

Thomas Edward Maxwell, 6/19/2023, Baseball

Laurey McCarley Snider, 9/9/2023

Samuel Edward “Bo” Williams, 9/23/2023, Football

Richard Isaiah Harlan, 9/27/2023

Jackie Shipp McDaniel, 1/7/2024

Florella “Flo” Maddux Smith, 6/27/2022

Dorothy Nicole Gladden Winston, 12/23/2023

James Lamar Harris, 10/12/2023, Southerners

James Edward McDaniel, 10/15/2023

Carl James Stedham, 9/22/2023

Carolyn Curry Wilson, 11/4/2023, Southerners

Roderick Leon Henderson, 12/22/2023

David Lee “Mac” McKenzie, 1/6/2024, Southerners

Robert Daniel “Dan” Stubblefield, 9/7/2023

Harlan L. “Peaches” Winston, 5/17/2023

Lee James Stubbs, 3/14/2023

Margaret Louise Moore Woodall, 8/28/2022

Harold Neil Horton, 2/23/2023

Janet T. Morrow, 7/2/2023, Delta Zeta

SPRING 2024 | 35

ALUMNOTES

Carolyn Pounds Casey, 11/24/2023

Gretchen Noffinsinger Zeigler, 8/29/2023, Alpha Xi Delta, SGA 1940-1949 Eva Lee Parton Smith (’49), 3/30/2023 Carolyn Eloise Curry Wilson (’49), 11/4/2023 1950-1959 Martha Nell Avans (’58), 12/4/2023 James P. Bolling (’59), 7/27/2023, ROTC

Ellis Ray Johnson (’54), 11/3/2023

Ted Wilson, Jr. (’57), 11/6/2022, ROTC

Katerina “Katie” Goulielmi Johnson (’58, ’72), 3/15/2023, Phi Mu, International House

Virginia Lester Yates (’56), 6/15/2023

William Branham Jones (’53), 1/26/2023, International House

Carolyn Cain Abood (’66), 1/28/2024

Elizabeth Kerr Cunningham ('50), 10/1/23 Herbert M. Cunningham ('50), 2/25/24

Lotice Marie Lovvorn Benefield Jones (’60), 4/28/2023 Jethro Stevie Harbison (’63), 4/1/2023, BCM

1960-1969

John Hermon Blackwell (’67), 3/2/2023 Diane Redfearn Broome (’69), 9/12/2022, BCM Gene Bussey (’65, ’74, ’92), 1/15/2024

Linda Vines Hardy (’64), 3/24/2023 Francis Gail Hayes (’69), 9/11/2023 Donald Sims Henley (’62), 3/19/2023 Charles Gary “Butch” Hill (’66), 10/8/2023, Football

Louis S. Butterworth (’54), 9/22/2023, ROTC

Peggy Jean Lackey Kittler (’53), 1/5/24, Cheerleader

Sarah Annette Hilley Cavender (’59), 12/27/2023

Jean Elizabeth Pittman Lisenby (’55), 12/25/2023

Robert M. Cheatwood (’62), 3/26/2023

Bobby Chappell (’57, ’60, ’85), 7/31/2023

Elizabeth “June” Lee Moore (’57), 1/13/2024

Donald Edwin Crow (’68), 4/2/2023

Irene Herrera Cole (’57), 6/1/2023

Charles Ray Perry (’58), 1/13/2024, ROTC, BCM

Phyllis Norton Cosper (’68, ’87), 4/23/2023

Phillip Dennis “Coach” Love, Sr. (’66), 5/31/2023, Baseball

Elizabeth Kerr Cunningham (’51), 10/1/2023, International House

George Floyd Nancarrow (’52), 2/5/2023

Henry Culp, Jr. (’64), 2/4/2024, Southerners

Richard Evan Madden, Sr. (’61), 7/30/2023

Bettye Joyce Pace (’56), 12/10/2023

James Elvin Douthit (’69), 5/17/2023

Donna Jean Maynard (’60, ’76), 1/19/2024, Cheerleader, BCM

Joan “Jo” Florey Pumroy (’53), 5/4/2023

Donnie Ray Echols (’64, ’76), 4/1/2023

James Taylor Smith (’53), 10/19/2023

Bernard Eugene “Bernie” Emerson (’64), 5/14/2023

Claire Jo Dunn (’53), 10/29/2023 Horace Daniel Forsyth (‘59), 11/9/2023 Mary Ann Gann (’56), 5/5/2023 Frances Gerstlaur (’54), 2/13/2024 Ardath Land Grizzell (’53), 7/16/2022 Arlie Lawayne Gunter (’54), 7/20/2023, ROTC, SGA

36 | GEM OF THE HILLS

Col. John M. Castleberry (’65, ’70), 7/25/2023, Cheerleader, BCM

Martha Louise Davis Spraggins (’59), 3/24/2023

Frank Winston Ezell (’62), 8/17/2023

Ann Trumbly-Barker (’53), 8/1/2023

James Kent Gibbs (’67), 12/7/2023

William “Bill” Glenn Ward (’56), 9/20/2022

Bobbie Glassco (’61), 2/20/2023

Rexford “Wayne” Washam (’58), 3/5/2023, Southerners, Phi Mu Alpha

Joseph Clifton “J.C.” Holmes (’60), 11/12/23, ROTC, Tennis, BCM

Jerrell Hodges (’65), 11/16/2023 Jimmie Darrell Hyatt (’64), 1/4/2024 Jimmy Van Lindsey (’65), 9/4/2023

Sarah Jean Guthrie McDonald (’68), 11/30/2023 Maggie Naylor Muegge (’65), 2/26/2023, Southerners, Ballerina Col. Grover C. Prickett, Jr. (‘65), 12/26/2023 Edward Neal Rodgers (’67), 1/8/2024 Edward Zack Roberson (’64), 6/29/2023, Football

Billie Ann Segler (’64), 9/3/2023 James “Jimmy” Lamar Silvers (’63), 4/2/2023, Tennis Stephen Campbell Smith (’61), 12/6/2023 Marion Watson (’66), 11/28/2023

Mari Heines Culver (’74), 7/9/2023

Arlina Wilkerson Jones (’77), 5/16/2023

David F. Peoples (’76), 2/9/2023

Ann Davidson (’74), 1/19/2024

William Marty Jones (’74), 2/14/2024, Pi Kappa Phi

Sonia de Morales Pitombo (’78), 4/3/2023, International House

Charles Edwin Kearley (’71), 6/3/2023

Robert “Bob” Nelson Pritchard (’78), 1/12/2024

Jerrold William Denson (’74), 1/20/2024 Richard Allen Drawdy (’71), 1/25/2023, Football Mickey Dwayne Elliott (’71), 4/1/2023 Allison Noble Garrett (’72), 10/23/2023

1970-1979 Ronald Thomas Becton (’74), 12/19/2023, Southerners Michael Reed Bowdoin (’73), 6/16/2023 Dr. James Donald “Don” Brady (’70), 6/8/2023 Gerald N. Brewer (’74), 8/23/2023, Cheerleader Pearly Reeves Brown (’75), 2/4/2024 Warren Aubrey “Buck” Buchanan (’70), 8/3/2023 Steve Callaway (’74), 2/1/2023

Robert Douglas “Bob” Germany (’75), 6/1/2023, Football Elizabeth “Beth” Collier Gorey (’71), 7/21/2023 Arthur “Buck” Delmar Grant (’74), 1/20/2024 Rubert Q. “Bob” Haight, Jr. (’78), 7/26/2023 Sherry Stedham Hamilton (’79), 9/6/2023 Linda Wells Hauck (’74), 3/21/2023 Jane Hartsook Herb (‘73), 5/2/2023 Paul Bruce Hicks (’71), 9/10/2023

Michael Canada (’76), 4/6/2023, Jax State Radio Station, Football

Cheryl T. Hines (’79), 11/6/2023

Linda Carroll Cullars (’78), 1/25/2023

Doris Jean Hyatt (’78), 2/13/2024

Sally Ann Bagley Lewis (’77), 6/6/2023 Sydney Fox Long (’73, ’76), 9/21/2023 Susie Anne Bartley Lowery (’72), 7/13/2023 Cynthia Denise Jackson Martin (’76), 12/18/2023 Margie Nell Scott Mayberry (’77), 8/23/2023

Patricia Neal Hendrix Putman (’78, ’87), 4/3/2023, Southerners, BCM Donald Cary Robinson (’78, ’82), 12/22/2023, Southerners John Edmond Robinson (’74), 1/26/2024 Broughton Wilkinson Rogers (’71), 10/13/2023, Baseball, ROTC

Mary Genelle Glenn Mayfield (’72), 12/21/2023

Ruby Nell Schell (’79, ’81), 10/7/2023

Marilyn Sue Milam (’73), 12/22/2022

Malinda Young Smith (’75), 10/8/2023

Arvis Lauren Stewart Morris (’70), 12/17/22, Alpha Delta Kappa

Raymond Stanberry, Jr. (’71), 10/13/2023

Mary Overton Musick (’73), 4/19/2023, Southerners Carol Lee Welden Nettles (’72), 10/15/2023 Keith Carter Nichols (’79), 1/17/2024, Southerners

John Wesley Triplett (’75), 1/24/2024 Cathy Oliver Vanderford (’72), 11/2/2023, BCM Harriet J. Brown Vaughn (’70), 9/20/2023 Billy Mack White (’72).

12/23/2023

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JAX STATE ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT 700 PELHAM ROAD NORTH JACKSONVILLE, AL 36265 SPRING 2024 | 37

ALUMNOTES

Bruna Loretta Camp Segers (’69, ’76), 6/30/2023

Col. Harold B. Wilbur (’79), 4/3/2023

Jo Anne McKay Holt (’87), 9/24/2023

Katherine “Kathy” Louise Forster (’96), 1/31/2024

Laura Kristen “Kristi” Grimes (’06), 2/2/2024

Clara Ann Willis (’73), 8/7/2023

Bernice Julia Coan Lee (’81), 10/16/2023, BCM

Marc Christian Frandsen (’97), 6/19/2022

Eric L. Mikell (’00), 8/18/2023, Sigma Nu

Donald Curry “Don” Wilson (’75), 12/20/2023

Sara Winelle McEachin Marsengill (’81, ’83), 1/12/2024

Teresa Lynn Loar Gossett (’93), 2/21/2023

John Adam Mitchell (’08), 6/27/23

Christopher Scott “Chris” Green (’97), 5/15/2023

Carolyn Faye Myles (’05), 1/16/23

Jessica Downes Gross (’96), 8/5/2023

Marla Jo Baerenwald Settle (’04, ’06), 6/2/2023

1980-1989 David Wayne Bice (’83), 10/26/2023, Football Selwyn M. “Roho” Bolton (‘81), 9/22/2023 Sharon Pinson Branstetter (’85), 1/7/2024 Jennifer Wells Burdick (’80), 5/18/2023 Sharon Clifton Collins Carpenter (’89), 7/10/2023 Gunnery Sgt. Larry Joe Chatman (’84, ’97), 11/2/2023, Alpha Phi Alpha Mary Ann Cottles (’84), 9/15/2022 Mark Carter Craddock (’82), 6/1/2023, Southerners, International House Program

Debra Buckner Nolen (’88), 9/20/2023 Woodrow Lawrence “Larry” Powell (’81), 5/20/2023 Kathy Prince (’83, ’88), 9/14/2023 Raymond Stanberry, Jr. (’88), 10/14/2023, Rifle Team, Alpha Phi Alpha Donald “Duck” Stephens (’85), 10/22/2023 Wesley Charles Thornton (’80), 12/17/2023, Alpha Tau Omega Hugh Harvard Warnock (’84), 10/27/2023 Clara Jane Williams (’80, ’86), 1/22/2024

Syed Ayaz Ali (’94, ’99), 1/26/2024 Mary Elaine Lockridge Bishop (’91), 12/7/2023

Connie Richards Doyle (’86), 5/11/2023

Helen Curry Calhoun (’97), 1/8/2024

Ronnie Keith Harrelson (’89), 6/11/2023 Gretchen Ann Yost Haught (’87), 9/7/2023

Dr. Jimmy “Jim” Wayne Shurbutt (’03, ’05), 3/23/2023

Phillip Scott Jones (’92), 3/11/2023

Susan Renee Warren Taylor (’02), 12/30/2023

Carole Gardner LaReau (’95), 9/10/2023

Mildred “Millie” Roach Threeton (’04, ’05), 6/4/2023

Dianne P. Milam (’98), 4/20/2023 Lori Phillips Samples (’91), 4/3/2023

Belinda Dawn Butler Wadford (’05), 1/21/2024 Garry Dale Young (’01), 5/12/2023

Neal Lee Scott (’93), 1/15/2024

2010-2019

Gwendolyn Sewell Smith (’97, ’99), 12/27/2023

Kristopher Jason Prickett (’11), 9/10/2023

2000-2009

Ashley Renee Woody (’11), 4/8/2023

1990-1999

Willis Murray Curls (’81), 4/4/2023

Melvin Gene Gillespie (’82), 5/23/2023

Tina Lankford Herring (’98), 5/19/2023, Delta Zeta, Southerners, Ballerina

Rev. James F. “Jim” Cook (’91, ’93), 10/26/2023 Sherri Denise Anderson Cunningham (’99, ’03, ’08), 2/11/2024, Southerners, Sigma Alpha Iota

Phillip Raymond Allen (’02, ’04), 3/21/2023 Stephen Ray Benefield (’04), 8/1/2023, Jax State Radio Station Julie Ewton Bishop (’00), 1/17/23 Sarah Taylor Galloway (’02), 6/2/2023, Volleyball

2020-present Zane Levy Dill (’21), 11/2/2023 Savannah Gilbert (’23) 9/22/2023 Branson Thomas Oliver (’20), 1/10/2024

178-24 University Publications 5/24 JSU is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution and does not discriminate based on age, religion, race, color, sex, veteran’s status, national origin, or disability. Pursuant to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Title IX Coordinator, Suite 301-A Angle Hall, phone (256) 782-5769 is the coordinator for Section 504/ ADA. Jacksonville State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist, and doctoral degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Jacksonville State University.

38 | GEM OF THE HILLS

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION EXPANDS BENEFITS!

Join the Jax State Alumni Association! Membership Categories: Jax State’s National Alumni Association has added valuable benefits to its membership program.

In addition to the current discounts at restaurants, take advantage of these new benefits now available with Jax State Alumni Association Membership packages.

» Gem of the Hills alumni magazine » Use of the Jax State Recreation and Fitness Center (membership fees required)

» Jax State t-shirt, car decal and other giveaways for Annual Memberships

» A Jax State pullover, car decal and other giveaways for Lifetime Memberships

» National Discount Program » Discounted rates on select Alumni Association event registrations

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP: Single: $35; Joint: $50 for you and your spouse

GRADUATES OF THE LAST DECADE (GOLD) ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP: Annual Single: $10 for first 5 years following graduation, $20 for 6-10 years after graduation Annual Joint: $20 for you and your spouse for the first 5 years after graduation, $40 for the first 6-10 years after graduation

LIFETIME MEMBERSHIPS: Single: $500; Joint: $750

DON’T MISS OUT ON THESE DISCOUNTS AND MORE!

Join Today!

Text JSUFAMILY to 91999, visit jsu.edu/alumni/get-involved/ become-a-member.html or scan QR code

SPRING 2024 | 39

ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT 700 Pelham Road North Jacksonville, AL 36265-1602 P. 256.782.5404 F. 256.782.5502 www.jsu.edu CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

PARENTS: If this issue is addressed to a son or daughter who no longer lives at home, please send the correct address to alumni@jsu.edu. Thank you.

The Growing Gamecocks program is open to all alumni and friends of Jax State for the special children in their lives! Enrolled children will receive Jax State promotional items and/or a birthday card each year. Enrolled high school seniors will also be eligible to apply for Growing Gamecocks Legacy Scholarships upon being accepted to Jax State.

If you have a Growing Gamecock in mind, scan the QR code below or text GROWJSU to 91999 to complete the interest form.