STATEMENT MOR E HE A D S TAT E UNI V E R SI T Y A L UMNI M AG A Z INE
MUCH
MORE
IN THIS ISSUE
■■ Dr. Mayim Bialik (p. 8) ■■ By Any Measure (p. 11) ■■ Eagle Eye (p. 22) ■■ Annual Donor Repor t (p. 34)
VOL . X X X I, NO. 2
ON THE
RIGHT NOTE
MSU’s tradition of excellence in music
Fellow Eagles and Friends of MSU, I am excited and privileged to serve as your Alumni Association president for the next two years. This wonderful institution has had a positive impact on my life and produced graduates who have gone on to leave indelible marks in Kentucky and beyond. To be able to lead our alumni and help contribute to MSU’s growing legacy is a real honor. One of my top priorities as president is to increase alumni participation. I would love to see my fellow Eagle alums return to our Alma Mater and make their presence felt in our campus community by participating in various MSU functions, attending athletic events to support our student-athletes, and engaging with our current students, faculty and staff. I would also encourage you to show your enthusiasm for Morehead State by giving to the MSU Foundation. Your financial contributions and generosity can help provide scholarships to promising young students and allow them the opportunity to pursue higher education and achieve their dreams. Your gifts will also go to support the construction of a brand new Alumni Welcome Center. This facility will serve as a primary destination for visitors, as well as a gathering place for Eagle alumni and friends. You will be able to reconnect and explore the University’s storied history through historical documents, displays and a museum dedicated to key events in MSU’s history, hall of fame members and other notable alumni. Morehead State University has come a long way since its founding in 1887. With your help, we can go even further. Our brightest days are ahead of us and I look forward to serving you. I hope to see you at an event in the future.
Eric E. Howard (81) President, MSU Alumni Association
MSU’s Alumni Welcome Center #BuildTheBuzz e a grand The construction of an Alumni Welcome Center will provid s from the entrance to campus, give prospective students and visitor State community the chance to learn much more about Morehead alumni University and welcome generations of returning and future home to their “Eagles’ Nest.” www.moreheadstate.edu/alumniwelcomecenter
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STATEMENT
MOR E HE A D S TAT E UNI V E R SI T Y A L UMNI M A G A Z INE
V OL . X X X I, NO. 2
www.moreheadstate.edu/statement
8
8
Dr. Mayim Bialik delivers “Big Bang” at MSU
11 By any measure: music has taken Jay Flippin on an amazing ride
President, Morehead State University Dr. Wayne D. Andrews Chair, Board of Regents Paul C. Goodpaster (89)
16 Landis finds her swing with Columbus Jazz Orchestra President, MSU Alumni Association Inc.
18 Palas owes success in music to MSU support 19 Eagle gets an “Idol” education
11
Eric E. Howard (81) Chair, Board of Trustees, MSU Foundation Inc. Steve Hicks (77)
21 MSU graduates first students from new traditional music program
Publisher James Shaw
28 Eagle volleyball gets new facility for new era
21
30 Todd to lead Eagles as new women’s basketball coach 31 First Eagle mascot served both MSU and his country 34 Annual Donor Report
34
39 Collis receives unexpected honor an endowed scholarship
Editors Mindy Clark Highley (91) Jami Hornbuckle (96) Tami B. Jones (82) April Hobbs Nutter (97) Art Director Toni Hobbs (02) Creative Services
4
AROUND MSU
Tim Holbrook (94), Photographer
22
EAGLE EYE
Guy Huffman (02), Photographer
26
FAME & GLORY
43 CLASSNOTES 48
IN MEMORIAM
51
SAVE THE DATE
David Moore (09), Designer Production Manager Amy Riddle (00) Contributors Jason Blanton (03) Allison Caudill (05)
ON THE COVER This recording of Morehead State University’s Alma Mater and Fight Song, along with the Fight Song’s original sheet music, are not only historic University documents, they symbolize a musical legacy that goes back to the early years of MSU.
Blake Hannon Matt Schabert Matt Segal
Morehead State University is committed to providing equal educational opportunities to all persons regardless of race, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disabled veterans, recently separated veterans, other protected veterans, and armed forces service medal veterans, or disability in its educational programs, services, activities, employment policies, and admission of students to any program of study. In this regard the University conforms to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. This includes: Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Executive Orders 11246 and 11375, Equal Pay Act of 1963, Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, Sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and Kentucky Revised Statutes 207.130 to 207.240. Vocational educational programs at Morehead State University supported by federal funds include industrial education, vocational agriculture, business education, and the associate degree program in nursing. Any inquires should be addressed to: Affirmative Action Officer, Morehead State University, 301 Howell-McDowell, Morehead, KY 40351, 606-783-2097. STATEMENT is published two times a year by Morehead State University through an off-campus printing contract with Jeffrey Fannin Enterprises, Morehead, Kentucky. STATEMENT is distributed to alumni, faculty, staff, benefactors, parents, and other friends of Morehead State University. Articles may be reprinted without permission. We appreciate notification of reprint use. Opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the official policies of Morehead State University. Inquires should be addressed to: STATEMENT, Office of Alumni & Constituent Relations, 358 University St., Morehead, KY, 40351, 800-783-ALUM, statement@moreheadstate.edu.
Summer 2 014 | 3
AROUND MSU
House Majority Floor Leader Rocky Adkins, Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers, Alliance Resource Partners CEO Joe Craft and MSU President Wayne D. Andrews announced the establishment of the Craft Academy for Excellence in Science and Mathematics.
The Craft Academy for Excellence in Science and Mathematics established Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers, House Majority Floor Leader Rocky Adkins (82), Alliance Resource Partners CEO Joe Craft and MSU President Wayne D. Andrews announced the establishment of the Craft Academy for Excellence in Science and Mathematics, a dual-credit residential high school for academically exceptional Kentucky students at a press conference this spring. The Craft Academy for Excellence in Science and Mathematics is scheduled to open in August 2015. Students will live on campus in a newly renovated residence hall designed for high school-aged students. The facility will have meeting and social space and be staffed 24/7. “I am excited to be a partner with Morehead State University in making this program available to exceptional young men and women to develop their God given talents. My passion is to provide opportunity for people that want to help themselves and develop professionally,” said Craft. State lawmakers budgeted $2.3 million to establish the Academy. Craft has pledged $4 million during the next several years in support of the Academy. This is the single largest cash gift in the history of the University. The Craft Academy will meet the unique educational needs of academically gifted and talented high school juniors and seniors in the Commonwealth. A college-level curriculum will allow students to finish high school while also completing up to two years of university coursework. It will offer a residential college experience and environment that promotes excellence, innovation and creativity while developing the full potential of the state’s brightest minds and most promising future leaders. “A lot of hard work is ahead of us before we open the Academy, but it provides an opportunity for MSU to develop and deliver a program that will be transformational for the young men and women in our region and across Kentucky for generations to come,” said Dr. Andrews. For more information, please visit www.moreheadstate.edu/craft-academy. 4 |
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AROUND MSU
MBA ranked as a ‘Best Buy’ at GetEducated.com Morehead State University’s online Master of Business Administration program has been independently reviewed and ranked by GetEducated.com as a “Best Buy” for students seeking an online MBA degree. The website surveyed 93 business schools to develop a fact-based, data-driven ranking of Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) online MBA degrees. In the recent survey, MSU was ranked No. 18, which was the highest ranking for any AACSB accredited program in Kentucky. The University received an overall grade of “A-minus.” In public perception, MSU received an “A” while in affordability and student satisfaction, MSU earned an “A-minus.” “At Morehead State University, we place great importance on offering high-quality graduate programs with a strong commitment to student access and affordability. Receiving this type of recognition from an organization like GetEducated.com confirms we are meeting those goals,” said Dr. Bob Albert, College of Business and Public Affairs dean.
MSU receives renewal on NCAA academics grant The NCAA has renewed Morehead State’s Accelerating Academic Success Program grant for the 2014 calendar year. MSU is one of six institutions involved in a three-year pilot program aimed to increase student-athlete academic performance. Morehead State is expected to receive $360,000 from the NCAA from 2013-15. The money is being used to enhance all aspects of the athletic department’s academic unit. The University will also contribute $180,000, which pushes the total to $540,000. “We are very grateful to the NCAA and our university leadership for their generosity and commitment to our studentathletes,” MSU Assistant Athletic Director for Student-Athlete Services & Senior Woman Administrator Sara Larson said. “Our recent academic improvement has been very obvious to those involved. This money is certainly taking our success to another level.” As part of the grant, Morehead State added a full-time academic learning coordinator to its athletic department staff. The money has also helped maintain the EAGLE Center, which features 7,000 square feet of computer labs, learning labs, study space and offices. The grant program assists institutions in further developing systems and enhancements that help schools meet the requirements of the NCAA’s Academic Performance Program, including increasing the graduation rate and academic success of student-athletes.
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AROUND MSU
MSU implements two new science programs Year after year, Morehead State is constantly growing, changing and improving its offerings to give students the best college experience possible. Beginning Fall 2014, this change will include two very promising new programs. With the approval of Kentucky’s Council on Postsecondary Education, MSU will offer students the chance to earn two new degrees: a Master of Science in Space Systems Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience. Both of these programs have been years in the making and are the first academic programs of their kind in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The Master of Science in Space Systems Engineering continues to build upon MSU’s standout space science program. Dr. Ben Malphrus, chair of the Department of Earth and Space Sciences, said the degree is ideal for graduate students studying electrical engineering and aerospace engineering, but also fields like physics, math and computer science. It will have extensive research and development opportunities for students while providing a greater knowledge of the overall design of aerospace technologies. He hopes that this program, coupled with Kentucky’s booming aerospace industry, could lead MSU students to promising opportunities and help the Bluegrass State flourish. “This is a program that will produce design-level and systems-level engineers for the space science industry,” Dr. Malphrus said. “There’s quite a number of opportunities.” The new Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience degree should appeal to a wide variety of students due to its interdisciplinary approach, according to Dr. Ilsun White, professor of psychology. “This is one of the fastest growing majors in the United States,” Dr. White said. “I think we’re very lucky to have it.” Dr. White said the program will appeal to students interested in fields like neuroscience, chemistry, biochemistry, psychology, health science, math and computer science. She said earning this degree could help graduates pursue jobs in research and lab positions or take a step toward earning a Ph.D. in disciplines like biochemistry and pharmacy. “These two programs will greatly enhance the academic offerings in space science and psychology and demonstrates Morehead State’s commitment to developing new and innovative programs to prepare students for 21st century jobs,” said Dr. Roger McNeil, College of Science and Technology dean.
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RAM to bring free health care to region Remote Area Medical (RAM) is scheduled to be at the
having been asked to be part of one of the clinics here in
Rowan County Middle School in Morehead Oct. 25-26,
Morehead.”
to offer free vision and dental care, along with medical screenings.
Along with MSU, partners will include St. Claire Regional Medical Center, Rowan County Schools, Maysville
“We are happy to come to this area,” said Stan Brock,
Community and Technical College, University of Kentucky
president/founder. “We know that a lot of people need
Dental School, University of Louisville Dental School and
help with vision and dental care. The big thing today
Gateway District Health Department.
is to meet the people that we will be working with, see the site, and map out where are we going to put the equipment.” Brock founded RAM in 1985. The non-profit organization was originally designed to bring health care to Third World countries, but now serves people in need across the United States. RAM Kentucky was founded in December 2008. “Morehead State University has been involved with the RAM clinics since they became involved in Kentucky,” said Dr. J. Marshall, executive director of MSU’s Center
More than 1,700 patients are expected for the Rowan County event. “This is a very organized event that really helps a lot of people,” said Dr. Wayne D. Andrews, MSU president. “People will come from a long distance to get free health care. Our nursing students and faculty, Center for Regional Engagement and other volunteers will take part in the clinic.” To learn more about the Morehead RAM clinic, visit www.moreheadstate.edu/ram or call 606-783-5087.
for Regional Engagement. “We are really proud of
MSU, UK and St. Claire to form Appalachian Health and Research Center Morehead State University, St. Claire Regional Medical
“The primary mission of the AHRC is to increase the
Center and University of Kentucky’s Institute for Rural
capacity for innovative collaborative research based
Health Policy signed a “memorandum of understanding”
out of Morehead, which directly addresses health
Wednesday, April 30, to form the Appalachian Health
issues faced by residents of Appalachian Kentucky
and Research Center (AHRC). Participating in the signing
and beyond,” said Dr. Michael Henson, MSU associate
ceremony were Dr. Wayne D. Andrews, MSU president;
vice president for research and dean of the graduate
Mark J. Neff, president and CEO of St. Claire Regional
school. “AHRC will seek to improve local educational
Medical Center; and Dr. Brady Reynolds, Foundation for
opportunities related to health research and to facilitate
a Healthy Kentucky Endowed Chair in Rural Health Policy
the translation of research findings into local health
and co-director of the University of Kentucky Institute for
policy.”
Rural Health Policy. Summer 2 014 | 7
Dr. Mayim Bialik delivers “Big Bang” at MSU On Jan. 30, nearly 2,500 people attended a special event
As part of MSU’s Presidential Lecture Series, Bialik’s
at Morehead State University’s Academic-Athletic Center
speaking engagement and reflection on her life, career
(AAC). They came to see a famous actress from what
and diverse background proved to be a highlight of
is currently one of the biggest shows on television, a
MSU’s academic year and left a lasting impression on
professor who earned a doctorate in neuroscience, an
those who attended.
author, the former spokesperson for the Holistic Moms Network and a proud mother of two.
turned toward booking a speaker for the Presidential
The featured guests were Dr. Mayim Bialik, Dr. Mayim
Lecture Series, a component of the President’s
Bialik, Dr. Mayim Bialik, Dr. Mayim Bialik and Dr. Mayim
Performing Arts and Speakers Program (PASP). Each
Bialik.
event in the series is coordinated with and co-sponsored
That’s because Dr. Bialik isn’t just one of those things,
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As the 2013-14 academic year got under way, thoughts
by an academic college and the Division of Student Life.
she’s ALL of those things rolled into one. Granted, most
The theme for the Spring 2014 series was “Intersections”
people know her as either Amy Farrah Fowler from
and was co-sponsored by the College of Science &
the CBS comedy “The Big Bang Theory” or as the title
Technology. The University tried to find someone who
character from the early ‘90s NBC sitcom “Blossom.”
could talk about some aspect of science but whose
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“
Having them learn a lot more about me and the kind of choice s people make, especially academically, I think really is a great opportunity. Dr. Mayim Bialik
“
appearance at MSU could get the students and the community excited. That’s when Jami Hornbuckle (96), assistant vice president of communications & marketing
hopes people get a sense of her life beyond
at MSU, threw out a suggestion.
the characters she’s portrayed.
“When I was trying to think of someone to nominate
“There’s a specific and very broad interest in who I
in the field of science that might appeal to a broad
am and what my story is,” Bialik said. “I like being an
audience that fit the theme, Mayim Bialik almost
academic and also getting here and having a lot of
immediately came to mind,” she said. “Once people
people come because they know me from television.”
were drawn in, they’d discover she had a Ph.D. in neuroscience and really was ‘much more’ than just a celebrity.”
During her appearance at MSU, Bialik touched on her success in television, her Jewish upbringing and faith, and juggling a career while being the mother of two sons.
Both student-level and university-level committees soon
But Bialik also spoke about her decision to leave acting
agreed that Bialik would draw a big crowd, and they
after “Blossom” to earn her science degree at UCLA.
scheduled her appearance for Jan. 30 at the AAC. Word
College may have been where she “fell in love with the
started to spread through social media and media outlets
neuron,” but Bialik said she struggled with math and
throughout Eastern and Central Kentucky were covering
science at a young age and had to seek out tutoring.
the upcoming event. Andrew Abbott (14), president of the Student Government Association, said that while students may not know Bialik, they certainly know her character. “Students didn’t know her as Dr. Mayim Bialik, they knew her as Amy Farrah Fowler,” Abbott said. “Once that got around, there was a big buzz.”
Those involved with bringing Bialik to MSU thought that both her love of science and math, along with her early struggles to learn it, provided invaluable lessons to the audience. “She was someone who was willing to say up front, ‘I had trouble with science and math, but I kept at it,’” said Dr. John Ernst, executive assistant to the president at
In a press conference prior to the event, Bialik expressed
MSU. “Both of my kids took away, if I keep plugging away
how she enjoys speaking for university communities and
at this math, I’ll be OK.”
Summer 2 014 | 9
“She talked openly about how she didn’t think science
MSU couldn’t have been more pleased with how
was for her initially, and how chance encounters with the
things went. All of the hard work behind the scenes
right teacher using the right teaching strategies changed
and successful cooperation across campus turned
everything for her,” said Dr. Laurie Couch, associate
into a successful event, where Bialik received a warm
professor of psychology at MSU. “After hearing her
reception on a cold January night as she conveyed her
speak about it, then it convinces even people who are
unique and affecting story.
not typically drawn to study science that maybe they could do it, too.”
“I don’t think we could have gotten a better speaker to fit what we wanted,” Ernst said. “In many ways, she really
In Bialik’s blog on the Jewish parenting website, Kveller,
cast the American success story. That you can really get
she wrote at length about her enjoyable experience at
there through some hard work. Hard work can still carry
Morehead State, which she stated was the largest crowd
you a long way.”
she’s ever had for one of her speaking engagements.
Bialik is best known for her lead role in the 1990s NBC sitcom “Blossom,” as well as her portrayal of the young Bette Midler in “Beaches.” She appears on CBS’s “The Big Bang Theory” as Amy Farrah Fowler. She received her B.S. degree in neuroscience and Hebrew and Jewish Studies from UCLA in 2000 and earned a Ph.D. in neuroscience in 2007 from UCLA, specializing in obsessive-compulsive disorder in adolescents with Prader-Willi syndrome. She has served as the celebrity spokesperson for the Holistic Moms Network, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting holistic and green parenting and living.
Summer 2 014 | 10
By Any Measure Music has taken Jay Flippin on an amazing ride He’s toured and played with some of the most talented
teaching students about music. It continues to provide
musicians on the planet, written radio and TV jingles that
him with happiness and sanctuary even as his current
get stuck in your head, arranged hundreds of pieces for
circumstances present him with challenging times.
various groups and written Emmy-winning compositions.
Flippin grew up in the small town of Stuart, Virginia,
But if you ask retired Morehead State faculty member
which was “60 miles from anywhere.” He started off as
Jay Flippin (70), all of the success he’s had comes down
a church musician, playing organ for a local church at
to not just how well you play, but how many ways you
age 10. He soon fell in love with jazz and learned R&B
can play.
piano, copying Ray Charles’ style by listening to records
“I always thought, coming up, that good musicians
his cousin gave him.
should do whatever you ask them to do,” Flippin, 68, said.
While he was in high school and attending college at
“If they want you to stand on your head and play ‘Dixie’
Mars Hill College in North Carolina to study classical
with your feet, you should be able to do it.”
piano, Flippin made a living and helped finance his
He has amassed an array of achievements since first deciding to introduce his fingers to the piano. Now, even in retirement, Flippin continues playing, arranging and
college education as a working musician, playing sometimes five nights a week in various bands at watering holes and fraternity parties in the North Carolina/Virginia area.
Summer 2 014 | 11
Flippin eventually completed a Bachelor of Music degree
years ago for composing the score for the West Virginia
in piano performance from Mars Hill, but before he
Public Television documentary, “Steve Cares: See Them
graduated, he got a call from the people representing
Dance.”
famed R&B singer Wilson Pickett, who was looking for his own piano man.
beyond the Bluegrass State, but he still finds time to
“They called me and said, we’re getting ready to take a
share his talents with the community and surrounding
tour and Wilson would like you to play,” Flippin recalls. “I
areas. He has long served as the organist and minister
thought about it for five minutes then said, ‘well, if I can
of music at First Baptist Church in Morehead and
get out of my final exams ... ”
accompanist and arranger for the Lexington Singers in
Flippin toured with Pickett throughout the summer of 1968
Lexington, where he’s done more than 500 pieces.
before coming to Morehead State in 1969, where he went
Despite having a career that most musicians could only
on to earn a Master of Music in piano performance. This
dream of having, he sees his most important offering
was where Flippin began a teaching career that spanned
to the music world as the times he’s been able to teach
more than three decades.
a student techniques and knowledge they can use to
He was an accompanist for choirs and essentially
achieve their own success.
founded the University’s jazz studies program. He also
“In the arts, you deal with these kids one-on-one every
taught music theory, jazz piano, jazz keyboard, glee club,
week. They’re like your kids,” Flippin said. “The trick
formed both jazz vocal and jazz fusion ensembles and
is you have to love them. You can’t look at them as
conducted four of MSU’s big bands.
problems to be solved. If you actually care whether they
Flippin’s musical life extended well beyond the classroom. He’s played as a soloist or accompanist in
do well or whether they learn anything, they respond to it. And when they do, they remember it.”
various ensembles in the U.S., Europe, South America
Flippin formally retired from teaching at Morehead State
and Africa. He performed and toured with countless
in 2001, but it didn’t take long for him to find his way back
musicians across a variety of genres, including the Count
into the classroom.
Basie Orchestra, Ricky Skaggs, Rosemary Clooney, The Platters and the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra. As a composer, he’s penned radio and TV jingles, a few of which were in national campaigns for companies
“I told my wife Nancy, I retired when I was 55 and I think I retired 10 years too early,” Flippin said. “I just figured out how to teach. You get better at it when you practice.”
like American Airlines, Rotorooter and Kentucky Fried
Since his retirement, he’s continued to teach part-time at
Chicken.
MSU while also being a part-time instructor at Marshall
“When you turn on the radio or the TV and hear something you wrote, it really is a thrill ... at least the first few times you hear it,” Flippin jokes. Speaking of TV, Flippin has acquired dozens of regional Emmy nominations for his compositions, including a Daytime Emmy nomination for Best Original Song for the soap opera “Passions” in 2002. He has a handful of gold statuettes to his name, with his most recent win two
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Flippin’s career may have taken him and his music
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University and Kentucky Christian College. He still continues his duties at First Baptist Church and with the Lexington Singers while finding time to keep his playing chops up gigging with the Lexington blues band, RC and the Nightshades. Flippin’s wide-ranging musical background has enabled him to play almost any gig that comes his way, but even he wasn’t fully prepared for the music he had to face this past February.
Rich Copley/Lexington
Rich Copley/Lexington
Herald-Leader
Herald-Leader
For a long time, Flippin had to deal with being diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes, but when he unexplainably lost upwards of 80 pounds over a six-month period, he made a call to his doctor. Eventually, they told him that he had an advanced form of liver cancer and he would have to start undergoing chemotherapy immediately. Thanks to his faith, Flippin is taking the news in stride. He jokes that the cancer won’t affect his hair loss, since he didn’t have much to begin with. He still keeps a very full schedule, only dropping his part-time teaching post at Marshall so he can have weekly chemotherapy. “When they told me that the chemo would do some good, that I have a chance, I thought I owe it to myself to fight this,” he said. “I plan to fight as hard as I can for as long as I can, but I accept it.” When news of his cancer diagnosis got around, the outpouring of support has been overwhelming. He’s received hundreds of cards and thousands of phone calls from friends and family, along with current and former students all over the world. And then, there are the emails, which he may actually spend the rest of his life trying to respond to. “I try to answer at least 100 a day, and I’ve got 2,300 to go. And every 100 I answer, there’s 200 more,” he said. “I don’t have any idea how many people are praying for me, but it must be about 100,000 people by now, and I can feel it.” As Flippin continues to battle cancer, it’s only made him value the relationships he’s built over the years. He’s taught at MSU since he was 23 years old, dealing with students more as a friend than a superior. He’s proud of being able to influence young musicians in a positive way and proud of how Morehead State continues to produce quality performance artists. But as time goes on, he’s only come to better appreciate his relationship with music and the amazing life it’s given him in good times and in bad. “From the time I was a little kid, if I came home from school and I was frustrated and I was angry and I was sad, I could sit down at the piano and feel great,” Flippin said. “I don’t think any musician is going to be without recourse as long as they can play or sing or even listen.”
Summer 2 014 | 13
Exterior: Music Academic and Performing Arts Building
New performing arts facility is much more than a dream
or
ademic and Performing Arts Building
te University
Morehead, Kentucky
11.13.13
Whether it’s the institution’s rich heritage in music or recent success stories like Tony Award-winning actor Steve Kazee (02), Morehead State University’s Department of Music, Theatre and Dance has a proven history of quality exemplified by the talents of its students. MSU has now made a commitment to give these students and the community that appreciates them a venue they deserve. The newly proposed Music Academic and Performing Arts Building will be a state-of-the-art instructional and performance space located on the corner of Main Street and University Boulevard on the site of what is currently the Laughlin Health Building and Wetherby Gym. The University is currently in the initial design phase with a projected estimated cost of $50 million. MSU President Wayne D. Andrews said the University will attempt to raise $5 million through private donations before going to the state for additional funds. Dr. Don Grant, chair of the Department of Music, Theatre and Dance, said this new facility is long overdue and once completed will provide an optimal performance venue for students and faculty. “Right now, we have a hundred yard football field and we’re playing on ten yards,” Grant said referring to Baird Music Hall, which was originally built in 1954. “This building will get us across the goal line.” 14 |
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The faculty, administration and facilities management staff have been working with RossTarrant Architects, Charles R. Bonner – Acoustician, and Malcolm Holzman, FAIA, to design the building. RossTarrant Architects and Charles R. Bonner – Acoustician were the project team most recently involved in the construction of the Kentucky Center for Traditional Music. The building’s location would also serve as a gateway to campus, showcase the institution’s love for the arts and increase the department’s recruitment potential. “What would happen if we had this building, we’d have the icing on the cake,” Grant said. “It will enhance the student’s connection to the performing arts and increase their passion for Morehead State’s programs.” Morehead State University has long been seen as a “light to the mountains,” and upon the completion of the Music Academic and Performing Arts Building, that light will only shine brighter. “The people who come and experience this facility will be awed.” Grant said. “In Eastern Kentucky, there is not anything like this. That’s what we need.”
Interior Lobby
Interior
Music Academic and Performing Arts Building Morehead State University
Morehead, Kentucky
11.13.13
Concert Hall Summer 2 014 | 15
Landis finds her swing with Columbus Jazz Orchestra Compared to other brass instruments, the trombone
opportunities weren’t available after graduation, she
certainly stands out from the bunch. Even the way it’s
moved back to the Dayton area and worked in banking
played, with its slide jutting out into the air with each
as a commercial loans operation specialist for 19 years
changing note, is practically begging for attention. It
while picking up whatever gigs she could.
certainly had no trouble getting the attention of a young Linda Landis (78).
she stumbled upon a newspaper ad from the Columbus
“I thought that looked like a pretty cool thing to do, and
Jazz Orchestra, widely considered one of the best
that’s all I wanted to play,” she said. “The trombone just
jazz orchestras in the country. They were seeking a
looked like fun.”
lead trombonist in 2004, and Landis pounced on the
Landis grew up on a farm in Pleasant Hill, Ohio, and
opportunity.
started playing trombone in the fifth grade. She spent lots
“I just wanted to be in that band so bad,” Landis said.
of time sitting on the fence playing scales for the family’s
“I decided to go after it with a vengeance, and I won.”
livestock.
Landis is now a full-time working musician, splitting
“Dad was so afraid I’d scare the cows,” she said. “They
her time between the Columbus Jazz Orchestra and
stood in the barn with those great big eyes and just
performing and conducting with various groups in the
listened. They were my first live audience.”
Dayton area. She still gives private brass and flute
As she continued to play trombone, her high school band director took her class to MSU’s Band Clinic, where she “wigged out” at the sight and sound of the MSU Jazz
lessons, which she’s done since 1971. Despite landing her big gig later in life, she thinks MSU has played a vital role in any success she’s had in her career.
Ensemble. It was Landis’s desire to play in that group that
“Morehead State was a really big influence on how
led to her becoming an Eagle and ultimately earning a
things worked out to me, as far as anything I’ve ever
bachelor’s degree in music education.
done,” she said. “Everybody else is thinking about
Landis’s dream to get a regular gig as a working musician would require some patience. When performance
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As Landis continued looking for opportunities to perform,
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retiring and I’m just getting started.”
Turner finds his voice conducting opera Kids often gravitate toward the stars in music that are holding a microphone. When Adam Turner (04) was five or six years old, he gravitated toward a musical performer who was holding a baton. “I just saw the conductor and said, ‘I want to do that when I grow up,’” Turner said. Turner’s passion for music led him to MSU, and what he learned from MSU helped him fulfill a childhood dream of becoming a professional conductor. The Louisville native initially wanted to study jazz piano at Morehead State under instructor Jay Flippin. But Turner “fell in love with the human voice” and participated in both concert and chamber choirs on his way to earning a bachelor’s degree in music with an emphasis in piano performance. He later earned his master’s degree in orchestral conducting from The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., and found his strengths in conducting opera. Turner’s music and conducting career led to a life largely spent on the road. But in 2010, he found a home in the Virginia Opera in Richmond, Virginia, where he started as resident conductor and chorus master before being promoted principal conductor and artistic adviser in 2014. Turner is excited for this opportunity to live out his dream, but wherever his career takes him, he’ll always take a piece of Morehead State with him – literally. “It’s funny. Right now, I’m holding a Fuzzy Duck mug,” Turner said, mentioning Morehead’s local coffeehouse. “All those teachers, I’m still in touch with many of them and even the ones that don’t teach there anymore, I still stay in touch with them. I look back proudly at my Morehead days.”
Eagle student marches for an audience of millions You may have seen freshman and music education major Brandon Hildebrandt playing saxophone in various MSU performances with the marching band. But in November, all you had to do was turn on your television to see the Erlanger native perform as a member of Macy’s Great American Marching Band during the 87th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The Great American Marching Band is comprised of 245 high school students selected from all 50 states. Hildebrandt was a senior at Dixie Heights High School and a member of Kentucky’s All-State Band when he learned his application for the band was accepted in September 2013. The band opened up the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with a rendition of the Macklemore and Ryan Lewis hit “Can’t Hold Us,” and marched the remainder of the two-and-a-half hour parade performing a medley of popular Christmas songs. Hildebrandt said seeing how people reacted to the Macy’s Great American Marching Band’s performance only reaffirmed his educational goals. “To have so many people excited about a marching band walking down the street, it was eye opening and showed that music is still an important part of the world and people appreciate it,” he said. “Music can change your life and I think everyone should have that opportunity. And if I become a music teacher, I can give them that opportunity.”
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Palas owes success in music to MSU support What is it that makes an individual like a song?
“She calls me up and said, why didn’t you tell me you
Lisa Palas (72) certainly thinks a rhythm, melody, hook
wrote songs,” Palas recalled. “I told her why and she
or lyric can catch a listener’s ear, but as a successful
said, ‘that’s what I thought ... and that’s why I’m going to
songwriter, she said its something much deeper.
help you.’”
“Emotion is what makes a person want to hear songs
Hupp put her in touch with her publisher, and Palas
over and over,” Palas said. “It’s what strikes an emotion.
moved to Nashville in 1981. She found her way into the
It’s something that people can relate to.”
Music City songwriting community, signing a deal with
Palas, born in Cynthiana before moving to Richmond, Kentucky, grew up in a musical family and began taking classical piano lessons in the second grade. She started trying to write her own songs at age 7 inspired by the pop, rock, R&B and country she heard on the radio. The reputation of MSU’s music department and the welcoming campus atmosphere ultimately led to her becoming an Eagle. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music and later a master’s in higher education with an emphasis in music in 1974.
country group Alabama’s publishing company. She penned her biggest hit when she co-wrote Alabama’s “There Is No Way,” which went to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1985. She would later go on to write hit songs for legendary country music performers like Randy Travis, Reba McEntire, Kris Kristofferson, Conway Twitty and the Oak Ridge Boys. Palas currently resides in Lakeland, Florida, where she splits her time between modeling, acting and running her own company, The Music Palas. She believes she’s had some lucky breaks in her career, but she said everyone
After moving to Louisville, she became director for the
she encountered at MSU gave her the motivation to fully
Kentucky State Fair Youth Talent Contest in the late
pursue her dreams.
‘70s. She asked Debbie Hupp, a Louisville native and Grammy Award-winning songwriter, to help judge the contest, neglecting to mention her own songwriting aspirations. But a song Palas wrote for Jack Daniels whiskey eventually made its way to Hupp through a local Louisville DJ.
“Sometimes, what one person says to you can make the difference between not having confidence and having the confidence to try,” Palas said. “I’m so grateful for the encouragement I received, not just from the faculty and staff in the music department but throughout the University. That’s one of the things that’s really great about MSU is that it nurtures people.”
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Eagle gets an ‘Idol’ education As a vocal student, sophomore Zach Day is currently
of the celebrity panel of judges. He said he took his initial
getting the opportunity to receive instruction and
rejection in stride.
guidance from MSU’s esteemed music program. But recently, Day got to receive some musical instruction and guidance of a different sort ... from three of the biggest stars in music ... on one of the biggest television shows in the country. Day made it past the audition rounds and was a contestant on this season of the popular singing competition “American Idol,” and got his chance to
“In the moment, I was immediately like, OK, I’m going to come back,” he said. “I wanted to come back, but I wanted to make sure I was ready.” Day spent his down time playing guitar and writing songs, honing in on a style that mixed traditional R&B with his country roots. He came to MSU in 2012 and, in 2013, he decided to audition for “Idol” once again.
showcase his personality and passion for millions of
Only this time, Day got to sing in front of Keith Urban,
viewers.
Jennifer Lopez and Harry Connick Jr., in Detroit. Despite
Growing up on a small farm in Stern, Day was inspired to try singing after watching his aunt perform in local choirs. He later went on to learn to play both piano and
being “terrified,” his rendition of Amy Winehouse’s “You Know I’m No Good” got all three judges to agree he should go on to Hollywood week.
guitar. But “American Idol” first came to his attention in
Unfortunately, Day’s “Idol” dreams were dashed when he
the fourth grade when he was listening to its successful
didn’t advance to the next round, but he still considered it
results.
a winning run. Between his “American Idol” experience
“I remember hearing Kelly Clarkson on the radio and somebody told me she won this show called ‘American Idol,’” Day said. “I could remember sitting in front of the TV ... being drawn to stuff like that at a very young age.” Day first auditioned for season 10 of “Idol” when he was 16. His aunt took him to Nashville, but he didn’t make it past the first round of auditions or get to perform in front
and his continued education at Morehead State, he thinks he’ll be even more prepared when another opportunity for him to shine comes his way. “The professors here have taught me so much about my voice. My voice is much bigger than I thought it was,” Day said. “I’m trying to mesh all this help together. I’ve learned a lot, so I’m excited about what’s to come.”
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Kline’s composition performed by Lexington Philharmonic Many students have
“I wanted to study with her. I wanted her guidance. So
attended classes at
that’s how I ended up in Morehead.”
Morehead State University and were impacted by the school’s experienced and gifted faculty members. In the case of Tyler Kline (13), they put him on the path to an avenue for creative expression. Kline grew up in Mt. Sterling and started playing music in his middle
Kline came to MSU and went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts in Music with a minor in general business and participated in the University’s Undergraduate Research Fellowship program under the mentorship of Dr. Deborah Eastwood. Currently studying musical composition at the University of Southern Florida, his piece “Sinfonietta” was recently performed by The Lexington Philharmonic this past April as part of its “New Music Experiment.” As Kline looks forward to other opportunities, the positive influence of MSU’s faculty will always stay with him.
school’s band. He played trumpet and the euphonium,
“They’re role models,” Kline said. “There’s a good
and Kline started to get private euphonium lessons from
possibility that I’ll be in that position one day, and I have
MSU professor of music Dr. Stacy Baker.
them to look up to when I pass on those values to my
“Right away, she had just this tremendous impact on
students.”
my life before I graduated high school,” Kline recalls.
MSU Foundation funds community symphony orchestra Thanks to a generous donation from the MSU Foundation, MSU was able to help give Eastern Kentucky it’s own community orchestra. Dr. Donald Grant, chair of the Department of Music, Theatre and Dance, and retired physician and Morehead resident Dr. Ewell Scott came together to form the Cave Run Symphony Orchestra in August 2013. When it came down to financing the orchestra’s inaugural performance, the MSU Foundation stepped up and donated a grant of $4,000 to help fund the orchestra’s first concert on Dec. 7, 2013, at the Morehead Conference Center. “We thought that the concert would help our strings program, our students and our faculty polish their skills, give them opportunities to perform and it would be a good outreach opportunity to support the community,” said Jim Shaw, vice president of university advancement. Dr. Scott said the Cave Run Symphony Orchestra will take on the task of raising money to fund any future concerts. He believes the campus, community and region can all see the value in what a symphony orchestra can offer. “A live symphony concert is a special event, and there are not too many places in Eastern Kentucky you can see that,” Dr. Scott said. “It’s a different experience. It’s an enjoyable, uplifting activity and when you listen to it, it’s unlike anything else.” For more information, visit www.thecrso.com. 20 |
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“
The fact that I am one of the first graduates is just a huge honor. I was excited to start learning traditional music and to actually ha ve a degree in something I never thoug ht I would be able to have a degree in.
“
Cody Pearman
Bachelor of Arts in Traditiona
l Music graduate
MSU graduates first students from new traditional music program There have been many musicians from Kentucky who have gone on to leave an indelible mark in the world of music by spreading the state’s musical roots in bluegrass and other forms of traditional music across the globe. Cody Pearman (14), Tyler Mullins (14) and Thomas Albert (14) are three talented musicians who have similar aspirations. However, when they go on to pursue their musical careers, they will do so with something only the three of them currently possess: a Bachelor of Arts in Traditional Music from Morehead State University. This unique degree marks yet another milestone in the growth and evolution of the traditional music program at MSU. Kentucky natives Pearman (from Vine Grove) Mullins (from Richwood) and Albert (from Morehead) were all minoring in traditional music but originally had different majors. When the University announced the establishment of a four-year degree in traditional music in 2012, they all jumped at the opportunity. Throughout their time in the program, all three students became proficient in guitar, mandolin, banjo and upright bass, learned about many aspects of the recording process and received expert guidance in performing on stage, which they have been able to utilize in numerous shows both on campus and on the road. “A lot of it has definitely been how to think as a musician, keeping the right frame of mind and how to connect with your audience,” Mullins said. “To go to school for a program like this, you don’t have to stumble upon that knowledge. They prepare you for that.” Pearman, Mullins and Albert all plan to play professionally and/or go into private instruction after graduation. Raymond McLain, director of KCTM, has seen all three graduates progress both in the classroom and on stage and is confident their talents and what they’ve learned at MSU will help them succeed. “I think they embody the life, the spirit and the excitement of this new program,” McLain said. “I think they are remarkable young people. We’ve toured together and performed together. My feeling is they are more than just good entertainers. They really have something more to offer.” Learn more at www.moreheadstate.edu/kctm.
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EAGLE EYE
HOMECOMING Eagles both past and present came out in droves for tailgating prior to the MSU football game.
David Blevins (89), Nathaniel Lee (77) and Gregory H. Wing (76), pictured with President Wayne D. Andrews, were recognized as the newest members of the MSU Alumni Hall of Fame.
Eagle wide receiver Cryus Strahm of Carey, Ohio, goes up for a catch in a hard-fought match with the University of Dayton.
President Wayne D. Andrews (far right) and MSU First Lady Sue Andrews (far left) stand with the 2013 Homecoming Queen Casey Sturgill (14) (Delta Zeta) and Homecoming King Jake McKay (Delta Tau Delta).
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COMMENCEMENT FALL 2013
L-R: Sen. Robin Webb (83) (D-Grayson), Sen. Walter Blevins (72) (D-Morehead), Lacey Blevins (13) and MSU President Wayne D. Andrews pose for a picture during MSU’s commencement event.
MSU’s past chair of the Board of Regents John Merchant (79) (far left) and Dr. Andrews (far right) presented honorary degrees to Linda and Jim Booth (70) (center, left to right) during the University’s commencement ceremony.
Dr. Andrews presents a degree to Dayton, Ohio, native and MSU graduate Chango Noaks (13).
Student Speaker Amy Lane Storner (13) of Lexington, and Dr. Andrews pose for a picture during MSU’s graduation ceremony.
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EAGLE EYE
SPRING GALA CARNIVAL!
MSU First Lady Sue Andrews and President Wayne D. Andrews donned festive masks to get in the spirit of Carnival during the 2014 Spring Gala.
WKYT news anchor Amber Philpott (03) served as host for the evening’s entertainment.
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Guests were treated to colorful decorations and a lavish dinner inspired by the flavors of Latin America.
True to its Carnival theme, the show for the 2014 Spring Gala featured an energetic mix of Latin music and dancing performed by our talented students.
COMMENCEMENT SPRING 2014
Buckner (Buck) Hinkle Jr. of Lexington (center) was presented an Honorary Doctor of Public Service degree. Pictured with Paul Goodpaster (89), Board of Regents chair (left) and MSU President Wayne D. Andrews.
Faith Brown (14) of Liberty Township, Ohio, was the morning student speaker. During her time at MSU, Brown was named Outstanding Student of Spanish, Outstanding Undergraduate Student in Secondary Education, and Outstanding Undergraduate Student in the Department of International and Interdisciplinary Studies.
Sofia Pettersson (14) of Täby, Sweden, was the afternoon student speaker. She was named Outstanding Undergraduate Sport Management Student.
Lt. Col. Robert Mason (far left) chair of MSU’s Department of Military Science, administered the Oath of Office (from left), Jared Branson (14), Elizabeth Hampton (14), Tyler Mercer (14) and Matthew Frisby (14) making them Second Lieutenants in the United States Army. Summer 2 014 | 2 5
FAME & GLORY
MSU student-athletes have winning academic year For Morehead State University athletics, the emphasis has always been to put forth a championship effort in competition and in the classroom. MSU student-athletes took that to heart in 2013, setting a noteworthy example and even breaking an academic record in the process. The Eagles had a school-record 21 student-athletes earn an Ohio Valley Conference Academic Medal of Honor in 201213, with nearly 100 earning spots on the Commissioner’s Honor Roll. Medal of Honor recipients all earned a 4.0 GPA and were rewarded for achieving the highest grade point average in a conference-sponsored sport. Students on the Commissioner’s Honor Roll were required to earn at least a 3.25 GPA. In the fall of 2013, MSU student-athletes recorded a 3.17 cumulative GPA, with 11 athletic programs managing at least a 3.0 GPA and 39 individuals registering a 4.0 GPA. In the spring of 2014, 12 teams tallied better than a 3.0 GPA and 32 individuals recorded a 4.0 GPA. “I am very proud of the academic achievements of all our student-athletes,” said Sara Larson, assistant athletic director for student-athlete services and senior woman administrator. “The commitment they have in the classroom and on the field is tremendous, and it is nice to see them recognized for all of their hard work. Academics are a priority in the athletic department, not only for our administrative staff, but for our coaching staff and student-athletes as well.”
2012-13 OVC Medal of Honor Winners •
Baseball – Kellen Begeman, Aaron Goe
•
Women’s Basketball – Mackenzie Arledge, Allie Turner
•
Women’s Cross Country/Track and Field – Lindsay Marcum, Natalie Norman, Taylor Lowe
•
Men’s Golf – Michael Fehrenbacher, Logan Hogge
•
Women’s Golf – Sofia Pettersson, Linnea Scholin
•
Soccer – Kimberly Borys, Karen Hilt, Elizabeth McSparin, Samantha Toepfer
•
Men’s Tennis – Ji Hoon Heo
•
Volleyball – Aryn Bohannon, Colbey Cameron, Laura McDermott, Leslie Schellhaas, Courtney Smith
2013-14 Teams with GPAs of 3.00 or better: Baseball Men’s Basketball Men’s Cross Country/ Track & Field 26 |
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Women’s Cross Country/ Track & Field Men’s Golf Women’s Golf
Soccer
Women’s Tennis
Softball
Volleyball
Men’s Tennis
FAME & GLORY
Volleyball notches another highly successful season The Morehead State volleyball team is becoming accustomed to being No. 1, and this year’s team proved no different. The 2013 Eagle netters won their fourth straight Ohio Valley Conference regular season championship and made their second NCAA Tournament appearance in the last four years. MSU concluded the season 27-8 overall and was 15-1 in the OVC, marking the eighth straight 20-win season for Head Coach Jaime Gordon. MSU continued its nation-best conference-match regular season winning streak. Before the Eagles dropped a 3-2 decision at Eastern Kentucky on Nov. 12, MSU held a 36-match winning streak in OVC contests. Morehead State is also now 67-3 in league matches in the last three years, marking the best winning percentage in Division I for conference matches. The Eagles swept through the OVC Tournament Nov. 21-23, defeating SIU Edwardsville 3-0 for the title. MSU drew Big Ten foe Illinois in the NCAA Tournament and fell 3-0 on Dec. 6. Leslie Schellhaas (14) was named OVC Tournament Most Valuable Player, as well as becoming the first player in program history to be named OVC Defensive Player of the Year. In addition, she earned an AVCA Honorable Mention All-Region nod and ended her career as the Eagles’ all-time leader in digs. Senior outside hitter Aryn Bohannon also joined an exclusive list during the season, becoming just the 10th player in program history to record at least 1,000 career kills and 1,000 career digs. “Coming into this season, we really had a lot of things to prove to everybody and to ourselves,” said Bohannon. “I’m very blessed to have been a part of this team. There’s not going to ever be a team that’s like this.” “I think this team is unique in the sense that we stick together through hard times and easy times, and I don’t think a lot of teams can say that,” Schellhaas said. “I’m really looking forward to seeing what this team and the future teams pull together for Morehead State. There’s here’s a lot to be said for what is becoming of this program, and I think that’s very exciting to look forward to.” Summer 2 014 | 2 7
FAME & GLORY
Eagle Volleyball gets new facility for new era The Morehead State University volleyball team has dominated the OVC by bumping, setting and spiking its way up the national ranks while setting a gold standard at MSU for student-athletes with continued success on the court and in the classroom. To reward our Volleyball Eagles’ passion and dedication, MSU will be building a new facility that will help usher the team into a new era of excellence. The former location of the McClure Pool in the Academic-Athletic Center will be turned into a facility featuring a main playing court, practice courts, a weight training room, student lounge, locker rooms, office space and expanded two-level seating for fans. Jaime Gordon, head coach of the Eagle Volleyball squad, said for the University to put this much time, effort and financial resources into building a place the Eagle Volleyball team can call “home” is an overwhelming gesture. “It’s unbelievably humbling. We’re so excited about what it could mean for our program but also for the athletic department and the region,” Gordon said. “This could very well become the top volleyball school in the country and to have it in Eastern Kentucky and Morehead State is pretty special.” The new volleyball facility will encompass all of the team’s needs into one location, and Gordon said this would give MSU a huge advantage as it seeks to maintain and build upon its success.
This new home is a dream that will become a reality through the support of our faithful alumni and friends. Join us in ensuring that future Eagles have a state-of-the-art facility in which to carry on the rich tradition of MSU Volleyball. Several naming opportunities are still available. For more information on how you can contribute to the new facility, contact the Office of Development at 877-690-GIVE or giving@moreheadstate.edu. 28 |
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“It gives us the opportunity to recruit on a national stage,” he said. “I think it shows the University’s commitment to athletics, but specifically to volleyball. It’s a valued sport here.” Aryn Bohannon, redshirt senior and outside hitter, has been with the team since she was a freshman and has witnessed the team’s growth firsthand. “We’re playing big teams and being competitive with these teams,” Bohannon said. “That’s a total reflection of our program and how we’ve put so much hard work into it.” A new volleyball facility will give some of MSU’s student-athletes a well-deserved gift, and Gordon thinks this will also be a gift to the entire University, the fans and the region. “What we’re doing is creating a team and group of women and student-athletes that fans want to follow and want to cheer for,” Gordon said. “It’s going to be a great place for our fans and alumni and residents of this part of the state to really enjoy a top-notch volleyball program in a top-notch environment.”
(Right) Middle Blocker Hannah Sigala goes up for a spike during a battle between the Eagles and Marshall University.
(Below) The entire MSU volleyball squad poses for a group photo after winning the 2013 OVC Championship.
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FAM E & GLORY
Todd to lead Eagles as new women’s basketball coach for a new coach,” they didn’t have to travel too far to find the right person for the job. Greg Todd, who has served his entire head coaching career in Kentucky, recently became the 10th head women’s basketball coach in Morehead State University history.
“
“
When the Morehead State Women’s Basketball team began looking
I want a coaching and sup port staff filled with tireless workers wh o will give everything they have to make us be tter. I want to create a family atmosphere here. This program is not about me. It’s about our student-athletes. That’s why I’m in this bu siness. Greg Todd Head Coach, Eagle Women’s Basketball
“We are very excited to have Greg as our next head women’s basketball coach,” said Brian Hutchinson, director of MSU athletics. “He’s been a winner his entire coaching career, and he’s a high-quality person. Greg is the ideal candidate for getting our program to the next level and helping us sustain that success for many years to come.” Todd spent his previous eight seasons at Transylvania University in Lexington, where he led the Pioneers to four Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference championships and three NCAA Division III Tournament appearances. Prior to that, he spent seven years as head coach at Lexington Catholic High School, where he claimed three state titles and won 90 percent of his games. He began his head-coaching career at Berea High School, leading the program to seven 20-win campaigns. “Everyone has been absolutely wonderful,” Todd said. “Morehead State is my dream job in many ways. I am thrilled to be this University’s next head women’s basketball coach. We have a lot of work to do, but I’m excited about the challenges ahead.” In 22 seasons as a collegiate and high school head coach, Todd owns a record of 548-144 (.791 winning percentage). A native of Berea, Todd graduated from Eastern Kentucky University. He and his wife, Renee, have three children, Brooke, Katie and Robert.
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FAME & GLORY All-Girl Cheer Squad claims national championship The Morehead State cheerleading team claimed the 2014 All-Girl Division I National Championship and placed second in the Division I coed competition at the Universal Cheerleaders Association College Nationals. The win by the all-girl squad was the 35th championship in the history of the program. MSU narrowly missed its 24th coed championship in school history after finishing as the runner-up to Delaware. The Morehead State dance team also competed at the Universal Dance Association College Nationals for the second time in 13 years.
Women’s Basketball senior Terrice Robinson scores 1,000th career point Senior guard Terrice Robinson (14) scored a game-high 26 points, including her 1,000th career point at MSU, in an 87-70 setback at Tennessee State on Jan. 25. Robinson, who scored less than 200 points in her first two seasons, ranked third in the Ohio Valley Conference with 524 points in 2012-13 and added 408 in 2013-14. She is the 21st member of the 1,000-point club in MSU women’s basketball history.
Eagle Soccer earns NSCAA academic honor MSU soccer recently collected a team honor, as it was named among the 2012-13 College Team Academic Award Winners by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America. The award is earned by teams that achieve a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or above for an entire academic year. “I am very proud of our young ladies for their accomplishments in the classroom,” Head Coach Warren Lipka said. “They compete on and off the field and are the true meaning of student-athletes.”
Mraz celebrates 25 years as “Voice of the Eagles” Chuck Mraz, the play-by-play announcer for Morehead State football and men’s basketball, celebrated his 25th year as “Voice of the Eagles” in 2013-14. Mraz, whose full-time position is news director at Morehead State Public Radio (MSPR), has broadcast more than 900 Eagle athletic events, which is the most of any announcer in the athletic department’s history and ranks near the top of the chart for all current Ohio Valley Conference announcers. Summer 2 014 | 31
FAM E & GLORY
First Eagle mascot served both MSU and his country Of all the students who have graduated from Morehead
Whatever trepidations Wilkinson had about becoming
State University, a few can say they served as the MSU
MSU’s mascot didn’t last long. He became a staple at
Eagles’ mascot. But before the University had a mascot,
kickoff and halftime and would lead the football team
someone had to be brave enough to put the costume on
on the field during home games. He was the University
and see what would happen.
mascot until 1971. Thanks to the encouragement of his
That someone was Jeff Wilkinson (76), and his stint as MSU’s first-ever mascot was not only a thrilling experience, it helped shape his entire life. Wilkinson grew up in Crosspoint, Indiana. A selfproclaimed “jock,” he first heard about Morehead State when his best friend, Chuck Lee (71) became an Eagle. Wilkinson transferred from Vincennes University to MSU in 1969 and wasted little time making a name for himself on campus, starting the Sigma Pi Fraternity in 1970 and becoming a walk-on for the school’s football team, where he played linebacker. A knee injury cut his playing days short, but he found a way to get back on the field halfway through the football team’s season in the fall of 1969 when MSU band director Dr. Robert “Hawk” Hawkins approached Wilkinson and asked him to suit up in an entirely different way. “He had a concept of a war eagle and he bought this very expensive, hand-made outfit to support the band,” Wilkinson said. “I had to think about it because I’m supposed to be a football player. I’m not supposed to be someone who runs around in an eagle suit.”
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professors and a newfound appreciation for serving others, he left MSU to join the Marines. He served for three years and was able to come back to MSU in 1974 to finish his degree in physical education and recreation. What would follow was a military career that lasted 30 years, including a period stationed in Guantánamo Bay Naval Base (Cuba). He retired with the rank of lieutenant colonel in 2000 in Carmel, Indiana. He later went on to become superintendent of Indiana Soldiers and Sailors Children’s Home, earned his MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University and recently worked as a senior defense contractor in Iraq and Afghanistan. Currently living in Tuscon, Arizona, Wilkinson is proud to have served his country, but he credits his unique experience at MSU with giving him an invaluable lesson. “It’s all about giving back to an organization or a person that supports you,” he said. “Ultimately, it became my ethos because that’s what the Marine Corps was about. It was about selfless service. It’s making a contribution, no matter where it might be, to the institution.”
FAME & GLORY
Fundraiser scores big for Eagle Football Before Phil Simms was an NFL Giant, he was a
“I’ve communicated with Rob several times since he
Morehead State Eagle – and he hasn’t forgotten his
took over as head coach (in 2013), and this is something
roots.
we both wanted to do,” Simms said. “I’m excited to do
The former MSU standout was featured at the football program’s fundraiser on Saturday, March 29, at MSU’s
what I can for Morehead State football. I want to help the program moving forward.”
Academic-Athletic Center. More than 300 people were
A graduate of Southern High School in Louisville, Simms
on hand for the event and the two-time Super Bowl
lettered for the Eagles from 1975-78. He tallied 5,545
champion raised $136,700.
passing yards, 32 touchdowns and was named Ohio
“Tonight was a milestone event,” Head Coach Rob Tenyer (07) said. “We can’t thank Phil enough for his generosity and support of Morehead State football.” The festivities began with a meet-and-greet session. The program featured dinner, a live auction and five award presentations. Simms, Tenyer, President Wayne D. Andrews and Director of Athletics Brian Hutchinson (96) addressed the crowd. The live auction featured a touchdown experience versus Eastern Kentucky, Homecoming guest coach opportunity, Simms autographed helmet and jersey, and tickets to an NFL game with a behind-the-scenes tour from Simms. Former players from the past six decades were in attendance. Postseason team awards bearing the names of Simms, Dave Haverdick (70), John Christopher (83), Jim Appel (91), Mike Appel (97) and Mike Gottfried (66) were introduced and plaques were presented.
Valley Conference Player of the Year as a senior. He was inducted into the Morehead State Athletic Hall of Fame in 1995. Playing for the Giants from 1979-93, Simms shattered 19 franchise records. He led the Giants to Super Bowl victories at the end of the 1986 and 1990 seasons and was selected to the Pro Bowl following the 1985 and 1993 campaigns. His jersey numbers have been retired both by the Giants (#11) and by Morehead State (#12). Simms currently works for CBS Sports on the network’s lead NFL broadcast crew. He was visiting his alma mater for the first time since 2011. “The Morehead State campus looks great,” Simms said. “This place looks better and better each time I come back. It’s been awesome seeing so many great friends, former players, former coaches, current players, current coaches and supporters of Eagle Football.” Summer 2 014 | 3 3
There’s no MSU without U! We need U to help us reach our alumni participation goal by June 30! Are you an active alumnus? Maintain your status as an active alumni by making a yearly contribution of at least $25 to the MSU Foundation Inc.
www.moreheadstate.edu/alumni
As an active alumnus, you’ll enjoy: • 10% discount on MSU merchandise at the University Bookstore • 10% discount on a membership to the Recreation & Wellness Center • Discounts at Eagle Trace Golf Course • Discount on season tickets for Eagle Football & Basketball
100% 75% 50% 25%
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MOREHEAD STATE UNIVERSITY
2013 ANNUAL DONOR REPORT Now available online: www.moreheadstate.edu/donorreport The 2013 Donor Report, which includes gifts made between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2013, is now available. Visit our website to see who made a difference last year.
We couldn’t do it without YOU!
Much more than a gift. We are enormously grateful to all those who believe in and support MSU. Every gift – whether $5 or $5 million – makes a significant difference to Morehead State University. Our momentum is phenomenal, and we owe this to the strong support of our alumni and friends. Thank you!
If you don’t have access to the online version of the 2013 Donor Report, please contact the Office of Development at 877-690-4483 to request a printed version.
Summer 2 014 | 3 5
What is included in the 2013 Annual Donor Report? www.moreheadstate.edu/donorreport
The 1887 Society The 1887 Lifetime Giving Society is Morehead State University’s most prestigious donor recognition organization. Individuals become members of the 1887 Society based on their cumulative giving over time to MSU through the MSU Foundation Inc. The1887 Society recognizes four levels of lifetime cumulative giving, beginning with a total of $50,000.
Circle of Excellence Gifts of $1,000 or more to any operating account are qualified for membership in this premier annual giving society. Beginning in 2014, gifts to any fund, including departmental funds and scholarship and endowment funds, also qualify for Circle of Excellence membership. Alumni who attended the University in undergraduate programs 10 or fewer years ago are eligible to participate in any of the Circle of Excellence levels for a contribution of half the stated level. Membership in the Circle can be achieved through a one-time annual gift, quarterly or monthly installments.
The MSU Annual Fund Clubs Donors who contribute gifts between $250 and $999 are recognized at one of three levels. • Benefactor’s Club: $750 - $999 • Patron’s Club: $500 - $749 • Supporter’s Club: $250 - $499
MSU strives to ensure our annual reports are accurate. Unfortunately, we inadvertently omitted a few donors in the 2012 report. We would like to recognize the following individuals for their support during 2012. •
Ernst and Sara Volgenau, new members of the 1887 Society with cumulative giving in the $50,000 – $99,999 category.
•
William L. Bowers, 2012 member of the Circle of Excellence at the Bronze Level
•
Shirley Parker, lifetime member of the MSU Fellows Society
Will your name be in the 2014 Annual Donor Report? Make a gift to MSU online by visiting www.moreheadstate.edu/giving.
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Creating A Legacy for
Future Generations . . . Wayne (68) and Brenda Judy (68) both have great affection for Morehead State University and all it has done for them. The Judys are both natives of Gallatin County, Kentucky, and both graduated from Gallatin County High School in 1964. They have been together since they were 16 years old and married during their sophomore year at MSU. Wayne earned his B.S. in chemistry and Brenda earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education before getting her master’s degree in elementary education from MSU in 1971. “We were taken under the wing by everybody there,” Brenda said. “It was just a welcome environment and it opened up the world to myself and my husband.” “Everything went well for us and we really credit Morehead State with giving us the foundation,” Wayne adds. The couple is currently retired and living in Brandenton, Florida, but every time they return to MSU, it feels like coming home. As members of the Visionary Society, the Judys provided the initial donation of $25,000 as seed money to start the Allen Lake Professorship Endowment Fund and made arrangements to ensure they would help contribute to the University and future generations of Eagles. “Morehead State University meant the turning point in both our lives,” Brenda said. “MSU gave us a great foundation on which to start and maintain our careers. Our experiences there, both academic and life, were so fundamental to our future lives that we chose to provide initial funding honoring a favorite professor and have the University recognized prominently in our wills.”
The Visionary Society includes individuals who remember MSU through planned gifts such as bequests, gift annuities, trusts, life estates, life insurance, or another planned gift vehicle and therefore provide for the future beyond their years. If you have chosen to include MSU in your estate plans, we want to recognize you. Please contact the Office of Development at 1-877-690-4483 so we can add your name to the Visionary List!
What will your legacy be? Summer 2 014 | 3 7
It’s a great time to make a gift to MSU! Memorial and Honorary Gifts Memorial gifts are a special way to honor a friend, loved one, teacher or student who has passed away. Memorial funds are often designated by friends and families for contributions in their loved ones honor. These gifts ensure a legacy for the one who has passed that extends far into the future, also while supporting the University’s mission. Similar to memorial gifts, honorary gifts are a generous and thoughtful way to recognize a person’s life and accomplishments. Many gifts to the Foundation are made to honor a friend, commemorate an important holiday or life event, or pay tribute to a special teacher. An honorary donation to the MSU Foundation is a popular alternative to traditional gifts on birthdays, anniversaries and special events such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. The MSU Foundation sends a special card to the family of the remembered or the honoree when a memorial or honorary gift is made.
J. B. Blakeman Memorial Scholarship One of the most recent scholarships established in memory of an MSU alumnus is the J. B. Blakeman Memorial Scholarship. This special scholarship was established in 2012 in memory of Jeffery Scott “J.B.” Blakeman (81). A graduate of Morehead State University with an industrial technology degree, he was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and a Chi Omega sorority big brother. He passed away September 2011 at the age of 52. Upon his passing, the Blakeman family, in conjunction with the MSU chapters of Sigma Phi Epsilon and Chi Omega, organized a charity golf outing. The money raised from the outing was contributed to the MSU Foundation to support annual scholarships in his memory. These scholarships are awarded to active members of the Kentucky Zeta chapter of Sigma Phi Epsilon who actively participate in a variety of community service initiatives. The 2014 recipients were announced in Atlanta at the Carlson Leadership Academy hosted by Sigma Phi Epsilon.
The 2014 Blakeman Golf Outing will be held Saturday, Sept. 13, at Eagle Trace Golf Course. For more information on the scholarship or the golf outing, contact MSU’s Office of Advancement at 606-783-2033.
From left, Taylor Blakeman Barney, recipient Trey Swartz, Vicki Collins Blakeman (81), recipient Dalcus Sparks, and Kennedy Blakeman.
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Collis receives unexpected honor an endowed scholarship Some do this actively and intently. That being said, others change people’s lives by simply living and setting an example that has a positive and lasting effect on others. In a way, John E. Collis (49) falls into both categories. As a student, former employee, proud alumnus and
“
Abbie Chandler, Char
First recipient of the
leston, WV
“
People have the ability to change the lives of others.
I felt very grateful to get it. Just to kn ow that I’m getting m oney that’s helpin g m e and knowing som eone is acknowle dging my achievements felt really great.
John E. Collis Scholar
ship Endowment
constant supporter of Morehead State University and the community, he’s been a fundamental figure on campus. When the John E. Collis Endowment Scholarship was
going to work as the office manager of his dad’s firebrick
established, it was an unexpected honor for him, since
plant in the evenings.
he didn’t initially know the people who established it or their reasons for doing so.
He was a student-athlete and attended Ohio University in 1940 to play football before enlisting in the Navy during
“I must have done something that was of some help,”
World War II, serving as a communications specialist
Collis said. “It’s kind of embarrassing to say to them,
aboard naval planes on missions in Australia and the
‘Thank you for doing this ... but what did I do?’”
South Pacific. After serving for nearly five years, he
Actually, Collis has done quite a bit in his long life. He spent his childhood in Southern Ohio and split his days
came back to the states to attend flight school and met his late wife, Dorothy “Dot” Canyus.
growing up between going to school in the mornings and
Summer 2 014 | 3 9
The two of them came to MSU in 1946 when Collis
The John E. Collis
received a football scholarship. He went on to earn a
Endowment Scholarship
degree in business in 1949 and, upon graduation, he was
was established in 2013.
called to the president’s office and offered the job of
The $25,000 scholarship
managing the University’s bookstore.
was created through
Collis accepted the position and held it for four decades before retiring in 1988. As the years went on, his responsibilities expanded to include managing
donations from the Kerrs, along with family, friends and other alumni.
concessions for football and basketball games for
Collis still tries to show
Breckinridge Training School, MSU and Rowan County
his public support for
High School. He also ran the campus’s post office and
Morehead State whenever he can – especially at athletic
supplied caps and gowns to graduates. All in all, as long
events. Since first attending MSU, he’s only missed five
as he was helping students, Collis was happy.
football games and, at age 90, he still finds a place in the
“I have enjoyed my job and the responsibility I’ve had for
stands to cheer on his fellow Eagles.
all this period of time,” Collis said. “If you keep dealing
“I came here on a football scholarship, and it became my
with the same age group, you never get old yourself and
desire to support the football team ... and not just support
there’s no better group of people to deal with than young
it, but enjoy it,” Collis said.
people.”
Collis is no stranger to being honored for his time at
But Collis did a lot more than just “deal with” students
Morehead State. In 1989, the MSU Board of Regents
if you ask Dr. George Kerr (58) and his wife, Sally, who
gave Collis the Founders Day Award for University
established the John E. Collis Endowment Scholarship.
Service. But Collis admits there’s something particularly
Sally first encountered Collis as a third grader at
rewarding and touching about the gesture of starting a
Breckinridge Training School when she went into the
scholarship in his honor because long after he’s gone,
bookstore to buy materials for her music classes.
he’ll still be helping young people succeed.
“We were always treated as if we were college
“I don’t think anything is comparable to my responsibility
students. He seemed to make no difference,” Sally said.
to students,” Collis said. “I don’t know of anything I
“I admired him even as a child. I recognized this special
would have appreciated more than knowing there will
quality about him because he was always so pleasant.
be somebody out there that benefits from a scholarship
For a long time with me, Mr. Collis was the bookstore.”
that’s started in my name.”
George had a similar experience when he was deciding on which college to attend. Collis’s kindness and helpful nature when he visited the bookstore was one of the reasons he chose Morehead State, but George’s encounters with Collis throughout college and witnessing his dedication to serving the campus community stayed with him. “John really spends his life in service of Morehead State,” George said. “Sally and I really wanted to give back in a meaningful way.”
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For information on how to make a contribution to the John E. Collis Endowment Scholarship fund, contact the Office of Development at 606-783-2033, 877-690-GIVE or giving@moreheadstate.edu.
MSU students show their appreciation 1,000 times over It’s hard to put a number on the amount of appreciation
Lawson said more attainable numbers were tossed
Morehead State University’s students have for the many
around until they settled on a more ambitious goal.
private donors who show their passion for this great institution.
“We wanted to set our goal high to ensure we were thanking as many donors as possible, but we also knew
However, MSU’s Student Alumni Ambassadors (SAA)
we needed to be realistic,” he said. “We felt like 1,000
thought the number “1,000” is a good place to start.
thank you notes was ambitious, yet attainable.”
In coordination with the second annual Student
On Feb. 27, SAA set up tables in the Adron Doran
Engagement and Philanthropy Day held on Feb. 27,
University Center, spending a good portion of the early
SAA organized an event called “1,000 Thanks for 1,000
morning and afternoon hours getting students to fill out
Donors” in order to show their gratitude for donors in a
thank you cards until they reached their goal. Allison
unique way.
Caudill, assistant director of donor relations at MSU,
Student Engagement and Philanthropy Day was started by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education’s Affiliated Student Advancement Programs
said this project was an effective way to make students aware of the impact private donations have on their MSU experience.
(CASE ASAP). Chan Lawson (14), a former member of
“The concept was not only to thank donors but to also
SAA and MSU graduate, said they came up with an idea
educate the students on how private money makes a
for a memorable gesture.
difference here on campus,” Caudill said.
“I personally think hand written thank you notes are very
The SAA hope that with an event like “1,000 Thanks
meaningful,” Lawson said. “I believe that small personal
for 1,000 Donors,” it will not only show appreciation
gestures make a big impact.”
for private donors and educate students on private
Once they decided on hand-written thank you notes, a goal of how many to write still needed to be determined.
donations, it will hopefully plant a seed so these students will become future donors themselves. Summer 2 014 | 41
Holton receives national attention as sports announcer Losing his eyesight at 10 years old due to a brain tumor near his optic nerve didn’t stop Judge David Holton (84) from achieving success. It didn’t prevent him from being elected student body president at MSU during his college tenure while earning a bachelor’s degree with a double major in government and politics. It didn’t prevent him from later earning his law degree at the University of Kentucky, becoming a successful attorney and later a district court judge in Louisville. So, it’s certainly not going to stop him from calling a football game. With friend and attorney Thomas Patteson as his spotter, Holton, 51, has been calling high school football games for the past few years. The father of two boys, oldest son, Brooks, and youngest son, Max, the boosters from
“I couldn’t believe all the publicity,” Holton said. “It’s crazy
Manual-Pleasure-Ridge Park High School in Louisville
the amount of attention this silly thing’s gotten. I’m just
asked him to call the action for the junior-varsity games
calling a football game.”
during Brooks’ sophomore season. He did that for two years before being asked to call the varsity games.
others, but what’s been most rewarding about his role as
Now, he’s in the press box every Friday night calling
announcer was getting to feel close to his boys as they
neighboring Western-Central High School’s football
played the game.
action, and his extracurricular activity has become an inspirational story. It’s resulted in coverage from various news outlets in Kentucky and even a video feature on TIME magazine’s website. Once the story went national, Holton began receiving calls and notes from people as far away as Hawaii, Washington and New York.
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Holton likes that his story has had a positive effect on
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“The best call you can make if you’re a dad is to call your own son’s name making a tackle.” Holton said. “I was never a coach for my sons when they played sports, and the next best thing to being on the field coaching was being in the press box announcing the game.”
CLASSNOTES Joe Bayless (58) was recently inducted
She married her husband, Jim Mortimer,
Wendell S. Meyers (73) was recently
into the Illinois High School Scholastic
earlier this year. Her late first husband,
appointed as the director of tech prep for
Bowl Coaches Hall of Fame. While
John Michael King (62), passed away
Sinclair Community College in Dayton,
teaching biology at Oblong High School in
from lung cancer in 2011. The couple had
Ohio. Prior to that, Meyers had retired
Oblong, Illinois, he founded the school’s
two children, Jeanie and John Michael
from Centerville City Schools in 2010 and
scholastic bowl program in 1980. He went
Jr., and three grandchildren.
later served in a tech prep position with
on to coach for nine seasons and had an overall record of 220-51, notching several wins in large tournaments and qualifying
Bruce Rutherford (71), a retired Navy Captain, was named a 2013 Lifetime
Edison State Community College in Piqua, Ohio.
Achievement Award winner by the Armed
Earl “Mickey” McGuire (74) was
Services Blood Program. His long and
re-elected to a two-year term on the
distinguished military career included
Kentucky Bar Association’s Board of
Gail Salyer King Mortimer (62) has
numerous long-lasting contributions to the
Governors. The Prestonsburg attorney is
taken a part-time position working for
military blood banking community. In 1990,
one of 12 people selected for leadership
the Magoffin Adult Learning Center as a
he was selected as the seventh director of
positions with the KBA. The Board of
teacher of English as Second Language
the Navy Blood Program before becoming
Governors oversees management of
(ESL) and family literacy. Mortimer is
the 12 director of the Armed Services
the Bar, an independent agency of the
a retired teacher who taught English,
Blood Program in 1995.
Kentucky Supreme Court with more than
for the National Academic Championship tournament three times.
French and journalism at Magoffin County High School for 17 years. She was also the school’s guidance counselor for 15 years.
th
Marianne Taylor Castillo (73) recently
17,400 members.
published a book of Christian poetry entitled, “From the Heart.” The book is currently available for purchase on Amazon.com.
Yates finds success in serving cyclists Billy Yates (95) was first introduced to cycling in the early ’90s as a student at Morehead State University. A friend offered to let Yates ride his mountain bike, and it didn’t take long for him to become hooked. “I immediately fell in love ... I’ve ridden bikes all my life, but I’d never ridden a good one. This was a good one, and it was like totally night and day — a different experience,” Yates said. Now the owner of a successful bike shop, Yates spends his days helping those who are already hooked on the roads or the trails. But equally as important is serving the customer who is new to biking and trying things out for the first time, he said. Meeting the needs of local bike riders has kept Pedal Power in Lexington in business for 40 years, as cycling’s popularity has experienced the ebb and flow of changing times and hobbies. Yates first came to Pedal Power in 1995, working for the original owner, Gary Collins. After five years, the opportunity to buy the shop presented itself, and Yates said he and his wife decided to try running the business themselves. Staff members at Pedal Power are trained to help customers select the right bikes for their needs and to maintain those bikes for optimal performance. Ultimately, Yates said, the shop’s success depends on knowing the product and listening to customers to better serve their needs. “We feel if we take care of them, they’ll want to do business with us,” Yates said. Pedal Power is located at 401 S. Upper St. in Lexington. For more information, visit www.pedalpowerbikeshop.com. Summer 2 014 | 4 3
CLASSNOTES Smith earns national recognition for role in affordable education Elmer R. Smith (71) came to Morehead State because he knew it offered a quality education at an affordable cost. Now, Smith‘s current role in helping students get an affordable education has earned he and his institution national recognition. Smith is president of Interactive College of Technology (ICT), an accredited institution that offers both associate degrees and diploma programs for high-demand careers. ICT was recently ranked 17th by the U.S. Department of Education’s Top 20 Best Values in the Private-for-Profit, Two-Year College sector for lowest tuition. Smith, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Education from MSU, started off teaching in public schools, later moving up the ranks working for private colleges before becoming president of ICT. Smith knows the cost of higher education can be a substantial burden on college graduates, but he’s happy that his institution is doing its part to lighten the financial load for students while giving them skills and knowledge that could propel them to future success. “You never tire of seeing a student come in, apply themselves, work hard and achieve whatever their goal or objective is,” Smith said. “It’s extremely rewarding to see that happen. That’s what sort of keeps you going every day.”
Wendell C. Perry (74) published his third
and with creative educational products.
astrology book, “Father Sun, Mother
Prior to this, he pioneered the field of
Moon: Astrology’s Dynamic Duo.” Perry is
international arts administration and
retired from Fayette County District Court
management when he founded IAA CO.,
as a deputy court clerk and currently
40 years ago.
works part-time within the Lexington Public Library System in Lexington, Kentucky. He also blogs for his website GoodGollyAstrology.com.
the Board of Directors of the Bluecoats Drum and Bugle Corps of Canton, Ohio. The corps consistently earns top placing
Donald Lillie (76) was promoted to
in the Drum Corps International World
associate professor of theatre, cinema
Championships, where it placed 5th in
and dance at Missouri Western State
2013. He was a director of bands at
University in 2013. This promotion included
Newark High School in Ohio, where his
an appointment to chairman of theatre,
bands rated superior over 40 times in state
cinema and dance in the university’s
finals in both marching and concert band
new School of Fine Arts. Prior to working
events. The marching band also received
at Missouri Western State University,
32 Grand Champion awards.
he opened an original play, “Marlowe,” in London in 2010, the same year he was presented in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, for the Shakespeare Birthday Celebration. Dr. Kevin Scott “Cody” Regan (78) was named CEO of Silon Entertainment Co., in Phoenix, Arizona. The company works in the entertainment industry, music industry
44 |
Randall Lamb (80) was recently named to
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Dr. Frances Hardin-Fanning (81) received the 2013 American Public Health Association (APHA) New Investigator Award for Public Health Nursing at the APHA’s annual conference in Boston. She also accepted the 2013 Spirit of Philanthropy Award for the Delta Psi Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honor Society at the international conference in Indianapolis. Dr. Hardin-
Since retiring in 2008, he serves as a judge
Fanning is currently an assistant
and performs as timpanist with the Heisey
professor at the University of Kentucky
Wind Ensemble and as drummer with
College of Nursing, where she teaches
the HWE Big Band while also serving as
undergraduate nursing research and
chairman of the 2014 Ohio All-State Band.
conducts independent studies with graduate nursing and nutrition students.
CLASSNOTES Carol Kulp-Shorten (81) was the
championships and prize fights. He is
inspiration for her husband, David
currently sports editor at Memphis’s
Shorten, to scale Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa
daily newspaper, The Commercial
this past January in an effort to raise
Appeal. His fiction has been published
money and awareness for the American
by Harper Perennial’s Fifty-Two Stories,
Diabetes Association. A dermatologist
The Pinch, The Common and Night Train.
in Louisville, she is diabetic and was
He blogs about music and writing at The
diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age 43.
Soundcheck & The Fury and tweets fiction
Leading up to the climb, Shorten was able
on Twitter @damnshortstory.
to raise more than $10,000 in donations.
Deborah Dunaway (92) recently had her first novel published. It is entitled,
Carlton Hughes (86) was awarded
“Bound by Blood and Brimstone,” by D.L.
David Wesley Williams (83) had his first
the Shepherd’s Cup for Excellence in
novel, “Long Gone Daddies,” published
Children’s Ministry at the 2013 FOCUS
by John F. Blair, Publisher, in March. The
Conference in Greenville, South Carolina.
novel tells the story of three generations
The Shepherd’s Cup is the highest honor
of musicians and the old family guitar.
for Children’s Ministries in the Church of
It’s set in Memphis, where he currently
God (Cleveland, Tennessee) denomination.
Set in 1950s West Virginia, the coming-
lives, and is steeped in the music of the
Eligible nominees must have served at
of-age tale follows twin sisters as they
American South, from blues and soul to
least 10 years in ministry. Hughes has
are terrorized by a school bully. When a
country and early rock ‘n’ roll.
served as children’s pastor at Lynch
final confrontation turns tragic, the sisters
Church of God in Harlan County for
must keep a deadly secret or face life-
more than 12 years and is a professor of
shattering consequences.
He had a 30-year newspaper career with stops in his hometown of Maysville, Kentucky; York, Pennsylvania; and Memphis. As a sports writer, he has won national awards and covered three Olympics, the Kentucky Derby, national
Dunaway. The book is now available in
communication at Southeast Kentucky and his wife, Kathy, have two sons, Noah Kentucky.
com, BarnesAndNoble.com and several other online sites.
Dunaway is a native of Eastern Kentucky
Community and Technical College. He and Ethan, and reside in Cumberland,
paperback and for download at Amazon.
and a single working mom who works with troubled youth at a local community action agency.
Fox honored with OAK Award Virginia “Ginni” Fox (91) has received various honors from MSU and other institutions for her accomplishments and her contributions to Kentucky’s educational system. Fox received one more honor, this time from the Commonwealth of Kentucky, when the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education named her the recipient of the 2013 Outstanding Alumnus of
Photo credit: Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education
Kentucky (OAK) Award. “I am pleased that the CPE recognized a very deserving member of our Morehead State University family for this prestigious award,” said MSU President Dr. Wayne D. Andrews. “Ginni’s career exemplifies how MSU graduates use their education to build outstanding careers and improve the lives of the citizens throughout the region and the Commonwealth.” Fox’s career in education has centered on a commitment to providing educational access to as many people as possible. As director of Kentucky Educational Television (KET), she created GED on TV, which is now utilized in all 50 states and is available online. As CEO of KET, she created KET 1 and KET 2, allowing the network to be the most prolific producer of educational and local programming in the nation and one of the first public television networks to broadcast digitally. She also served as secretary of education under Gov. Ernie Fletcher when he appointed her to his cabinet in 2003 and continued to make great strides in the interconnectedness and overall improvement of P-20 education. Summer 2 014 | 4 5
CLASSNOTES Fraley Nominated for Kentucky Agricultural Leadership Program Joseph Fraley (94) went from being an MSU student excited to learn all he could about the agriculture industry to being the current farm manager of the University Farm. His breadth of knowledge and experience led to his nomination to the Kentucky Agricultural Leadership Program (KALP) Class X for 2012-14. Founded by the University of Kentucky, KALP was created to bring together potential leaders from across the state to address Kentucky’s agricultural needs. Fraley was one of 22 people nominated for the two-year program, which also included a two-week trip to South Africa to collaborate with the country’s farmers and work to solve the region’s various agricultural issues. Fraley said he gained a great deal of insight from his involvement with KALP and the trip to South Africa left him with something he will carry with him through his role in MSU’s agriculture program. “It opens your eyes up to how what I do may affect someone in another state, another county, even another country. Rather than making the world bigger to me, it made it smaller,” he said. “We’re affecting the students and they are affecting a lot more people when they go out into careers in agriculture.”
Retreat Center. He is an avid amateur photographer and is employed with Half Price Books, Inc. The couple plans to reside in the greater Cincinnati area. No date has been set for the wedding.
Erin Kidd (96), a publisher at Lucky Lady
Shannon Hunt (04) has released her first
Press, has partnered with novelist Cherie
book, “A Back Pocket Full of Poems.”
Kay (98), to release the romantic comedy
The book can be found on Amazon.com,
novel, “Browse.Click.Love.” It is available
BarnesAndNoble.com, Vook.com and
in print at Amazon.com and as an e-book
the Apple iBookstore. She began writing
for Kindle, Nook, iBook and Google Play.
at the age of seven and was further
This novel is Kidd’s first foray into the publishing world and she and Kay already have plans for a second book in the
joined Family Allergy & Asthma as an
fueled by writing classes taught by MSU professor George Eklund. She has been published in more than 10 anthologies
“Novel Adventure” series.
allergy, asthma and immunology specialist
Dale Marie Prenatt (02) of Cincinnati,
immunology at Tulane University in New
Amy J. Staton (04) was named the
Ohio, and Brian Botts of Lexington,
Orleans, Louisiana. She will see patients
2013 Kentucky Veterinary Technician
Kentucky, are pleased to announce their
in Family Allergy & Asthma offices in
of the Year by the Kentucky Veterinary
engagement. She is the only daughter of
Lexington, Richmond, Somerset and
Technician Association (KVTA). Staton
Gail V. Amburgey of Frankfort, Kentucky,
Corbin.
also recently earned her Doctor in
after completing her fellowship in allergy/
both in the U.S. and internationally.
and the late Russell L. Prenatt of Edinboro,
Education in Educational Leadership
Pennsylvania. Her fiancé is the oldest son
Tech in 2013 from Morehead State. Staton
of the late Jean Palmer and the late Albert
is currently an instructor of veterinary
Botts of Lexington. She continues to
technology in the University’s Department
write and publish poetry and is presently
of Agricultural Sciences.
employed with Grailville Program & 46 |
Dr. Brandi Hunley Dyer (04) has recently
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CLASSNOTES Horn finds career answers in questions of philosophy The study of philosophy isn’t about definitive answers as much as infinite questions. Those questions can lead a person down a variety of paths, and in the case of Josh Horn (07), it was the subject of philosophy that made him change paths at Morehead State and eventually led to his dream job. Horn, a native of Inez, initially aspired to a career in criminal law and came to MSU to earn a bachelor’s degree in government before applying to law school. But on the way to earning that degree, he took a philosophy class out of curiosity. Curiosity eventually turned into fascination. After switching majors, Horn graduated with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and he went on to earn both his M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Kentucky. After graduate school, Horn not only found a job; he may have found his ideal job when he was hired last year as an assistant professor of philosophy at the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point. As Horn continues to develop as a professor, he often looks back to his time at MSU and instructors like Dr. Scott Davison, Dr. Ric Caric, Dr. Pamela Ryan and Dr. Wendell O’Brien as examples of the instructor he’d like to become. “When you’re first starting to get your feet wet, you go back and think of the kinds of professors you want to be like and the ones that stuck with you,” Horn said. “They never forced their ideas on me, they helped me become who I am. I try to model that on my students.” Heidi McKenzie (11) is in the process of
Glenn L. Means (11) was one of three
starting her own clothing line specifically
young people from across the country
designed for people in wheelchairs.
selected to participate in the 2013
She is a former contestant in the Miss
Health For America fellowship program
Wheelchair America Pageant and
in Washington, D.C. The program was
has become an advocate for those in
designed to get the input of recent college
wheelchairs. She showcased some of
graduates in order to reinvigorate the
her first designs this past September at
United States healthcare system. In
the Lyric Theatre at the Lexington Fashion
addition to earning a bachelor’s degree in
Collaborative’s Future of Fashion Show.
psychology, Means also went on to earn
Much more about you. Share your story. Email your classnote to alumni@moreheadstate.edu.
a master’s in public administration from MSU in 2013.
Is there a future Eagle in your family? Share your baby announcement with us and we’ll mail a “Future Eagle” baby bib to celebrate your newest family member! To request a bib, email alumni@moreheadstate.edu with “Future Eagle” as the subject line. You may also post pictures of your little one in the bib and share it with us on Facebook (search for “Official Morehead State Alumni & Friends” and become a fan). This is open to both parents and grandparents who are MSU alumni. Future Eagle Hayden Frick, son of Nick Frick (02).
Summer 2 014 | 47
IN MEMORIAM The Morehead State University family remembers ...
48 |
Steven E. Harris Sr.
Gary R. Burton
1963
Edith B. Bell Hall
1978
John Michael King
Katherine Orme Rogers
1963
Edward T. Lundergan
1979
Leonard Kocis
Polly H. Tucker Fullington
1964
John H. Hitzel Jr.
1980
Johnny K. Maynard Jr.
Jewell Mabry Hale
1964
Christopher W. Hogg
1980
Melissa D. Gilliam Sabon
John S. Mayo
1965
Joseph K. Slone
1980
William R. Stephens
Kenneth A. Starnes
1966
Shelby Stamper Jr.
1981
Roger S. Young
Phyllis Pierce Wisecup
1966
Joy B. Brumagen Gilbert
1982
Martha A. Wellman Hanson
1947
Patricia A. Bolen Hogan
1967
Barry G. Ellington
1985
John R. Hartig
1949
Charles D. Salisbury
1967
John K. Williamson
1985
Franklin H. Moricle
1951
Linda L. Love Allen
1968
Katherine H. Coleman
1988
Lorraine Brammell Criswell
1953
James W. Weldon
1968
Darrin K. Hale
1989
Ruth Phillips Parrish
1953
Alice E. Williams
1968
Deanna P. Porter Arrington
1991
Albert H. Ratliff
1953
Steven A. Dunker
1969
John G. Hardin
1991
James R. Reynolds
1953
Burdette (Bud) G. Greenman III
1969
Joyce B. Phillips Rutherford
1992
Jim B. Bowling
1955
James C. Porter
1969
Brian K. Haggard
1993
Joyce A. Standiford Romano
1955
William J. Donofrio
1970
Belinda D. Slone Mabry
1995
Sonia A. Ward Holbrook
1956
Coleene B. Hampton
1970
Adam S. Smith
1997
Betty L. Johnson
1958
David A. Law
1970
William B. Mineer
1998
Edith M. Burns Gunnell
1959
William L. Riley
1970
Christopher Jared Maynard
2000
Opal B. Boggs Jett
1959
Patricia A. Watts
1970
Larissa F. Crank
2003
Gary V. Branson
1960
James K. Walden
1971
Jeffrey A. Cantrell
2005
Sidney R. Cure
1960
Jacklynn K. Scott Darling
1972
Joyce A. Bentley Salyers
1960
Jack G. Maynard
1972
Ruby L. Lewis Vencill
1960
Clyde Porter
1972
Dorothy T. Hay
1961
Raymond L. Woolum
1973
Judith E. Lee Creech
1962
Lisa B. Byron Amburgey
1974
Gary N. Knight
1962
Plummer Mason Jones III
1975
Faye (Donna) M. Thomas Sykes
1962
Dallas June Craft
1976
Robert I. Brown
1963
Anthony S. Caudill
1977
Virginia (Jenny) Klaren Buckner
1963
David E. Plemen
1977
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To make a gift in memory of one or more of these individuals, call the Office of Development at 877-690-GIVE.
IN MEMORIAM Dr. Franklin Mayer Mangrum Dr. Franklin Mayer Mangrum, 88, of Lexington, passed away Friday, Oct. 4, 2013. He was born on June 1, 1925, in Graves County, Kentucky. Mangrum was a World War II veteran, having served during the last sixth months of the European Campaign ending in May 1945. He graduated from Lowes High School in Graves County, Kentucky, before earning his Bachelor of Arts from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri in 1949 and his Ph.D. at the University of Chicago in 19578. In 1957, Mangrum began his teaching career at Shimer College in Illinois before coming to Morehead State College and establishing the school’s philosophy department in 1959. He was one of the members of the faculty committee, which established the Honors Program in 1960. He served as a faculty advisor to the philosophy club and was the first faculty representative to the MSU Board of Regents. After 36 years as a full-time professor, he retired in 1995. After his retirement, he continued to teach part-time at MSU for four years before ending a 40year career at MSU in May 1999.
Edward Thomas Lundergan Edward Thomas Lundergan (79) of Maysville, passed away on April 17, 2014, after a long, hard-fought battle with multiple myeloma. He was 56. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Science from Morehead State and later obtained a Master of Science in Vocational Education/Agriculture from MSU in 1992. Lundergan was manager at the University Farm for two decades from 1982 until his retirement in 2012. During that time, he was an agriculture leader on and off campus. He was instrumental in the improvement of the University’s renowned Black Angus herd and initiated fresh water shrimp production while also serving as co-founder, advisor and co-manager of the Northeast Kentucky Junior Livestock Expo. He received MSU’s Distinguished Staff Service Award in 2005.
Gary Neal Knight Gary Neal Knight (62), 79, of Paintsville, died Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2013, at his home. He was born in the town of Dunham in Letcher County, on May 12, 1934. He was the son of the late Olen Albert and Willa Mae Knight. Knight was a graduate of Paintsville High School. He was a member of the first University of Kentucky Allied Medical School Physical Therapy class in 1973. He served as the first physical therapist at Highland Regional Hospital in Prestonsburg, and at Mountain Manor Rest Homes from 1973 until he went into private practice in Prestonsburg in 1986. He was a teacher and coach at Paintsville High School and a lifetime member of that school’s Hall of Fame. He inducted into the Paintsville Sports Hall of Fame in 2013. He served as president of both the Big Sandy alumni chapters of Morehead State University and the University of Kentucky for many years.
Summer 2 014 | 4 9
MOREHEA D STAT E UNIV ERSITY
Much more about you.
Our graduate courses are not limited just to the main campus in Morehead. MSU offers you the flexibility to explore an array of graduate and post-graduate degree programs at our regional campus centers. Many programs are offered completely online or through a mix of face-to-face and interactive television (ITV) classes. Whatever your needs, you’re sure to find the right fit for you.
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr, Tumblr & Foursquare.
For more information, call 606-783-2039 or visit
www.moreheadstate.edu/gradschool. MSU is an affirmative action, equal opportunity, educational institution.
50 |
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SAVE THE DATE
Much more Eagle pride.
SEPT. 5-7 Family Weekend
SEPT. 28 Browning Orchard Festival
Kentucky residents, show your Eagle pride with a newly redesigned Morehead State license plate. A portion of the fee will benefit the University.
OCT. 2-4 Homecoming The time for MSU alumni to come home, come together and celebrate Eagle pride is coming up sooner than you think. Make sure you join us for Homecoming 2014!
For more information, visit mvl.ky.gov or call your local county clerk.
Is the MSU Alumni Association hosting an event in your area? Connect with us on social media for the latest event information!
To receive monthly updates on MSU news/events, sign up for
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Summer 2 014 | 51
SlideShare
Google Talk
TM
DIVISION OF UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT
NON-PROFIT ORG.
PALMER DEVELOPMENT HOUSE
U.S. POSTAGE
150 UNIVERSITY BLVD.
PAID
MOREHEAD, KY 40351
FLORENCE, KY PERMIT NO. 313
HOMECOMING 2014 OCT. 2-4 THURSDAY, OCT. 2 • ART EXHIBITION (Claypool-Young Art Gallery) 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. • MSU HOMECOMING PARADE (Main Street) 6 p.m. • NEARLY NAKED MILE (AAC) Registration 8:30 p.m. Presented by Student Alumni Ambassadors
FRIDAY, OCT. 3 • BLUE AND GOLD DAY • ART EXHIBITION (Claypool-Young Art Gallery) 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. • MEMORIAL BRICK CEREMONY (Little Bell Tower Memorial Plaza) 10:30 a.m. • CLASS OF 1964 50TH REUNION LUNCHEON (Heritage Room, ADUC) Noon • MSU ALUMNI ASSOCIATION WELCOME RECEPTION (3rd Floor, ADUC) 5-7 p.m. • *HOMECOMING BANQUET (Crager Room, ADUC) 7 p.m. ALUMNI & ATHLETIC HALLS OF FAME AND THE FOUNDERS AWARD FOR UNIVERSITY SERVICE • HOMECOMING KICKOFF CELEBRATION (Buffalo Wild Wings) 7 p.m. Alumni Association and Joey Wagner (01) of J Wagner Group promoted event
SATURDAY, OCT. 4 • HOMECOMING TAILGATE (Eagle Rally Zone-beside Smith-Booth Hall) 11 a.m. DJ music provided by Joey Wagner (01) of J Wagner Group and Free Food • *EAGLE FOOTBALL (Jayne Stadium) 1 p.m. • *CROWNING OF THE HOMECOMING KING & QUEEN (Jayne Stadium) Halftime *Indicates ticket required.
For additional information, contact the MSU Alumni Association at 606-783-2080 or 800-783-ALUM.
Join us for the 2014 Marching Band Alumni Reunion. For more information, contact Dr. Susan Creasap at 606-783-2488 or s.creasap@moreheadstate.edu.