Mississippi State University Alumnus Spring 2013

MISSISSIPPI STATE ALUMNUS Spring 2013

Leading Ladies

MSU women leaders set course for success

“I stay involved because Mississippi State University had such a huge impact on the person I became. From academics to athletics, Julie and I share a passion for ensuring the growth of the university. It seems appropriate to give back financially so that others can hopefully have a similar experience.�

Jim Rouse ('62), retired exxon mobil corp. vice president and Julie Rouse, former teacher Houston, Texas

post office box 6149 | mississippi state, ms 39762 | 662.325.7000 | www.msufoundation.com

MISSISSIPPI STATE ALUMNUS Spring 2013

Spring 2013 | Vol. 89 | No. 2

USPS 354-520 This is Our State.

President Mark E. Keenum (’83, ’84, ’88) Vice President for Development and Alumni John P. Rush (’94, ’02) Alumni Association Executive Director and Associate Vice President, Development and Alumni Jimmy W. Abraham (’75, ’77) twitter.com/drjimmyabraham Editorial offices: 102 George Hall, P.O. Box 5325, Mississippi State, MS 39762-5325 Telephone, 662-325-3442 Fax, 662-325-7455 E-mail, snowa@ur.msstate.edu www.msstate.edu Advertising: Contact Libba Andrews at 662-325-3479 or landrews@alumni.msstate.edu.

Editor Allen Snow (’76) Associate Editor Harriet Laird Designers Matt Watson (’05) Hal Teasler (’12) Photographers Russ Houston (’85) Megan Bean Beth Wynn Mississippi State University Alumni Association National Officers Camille Scales Young, ’94, ’96, national president Tommy R. Roberson, ’67, national first vice president Ron E. Black, ’80, national second vice president Jodi White Turner, ’97, ’99, national treasurer Jerry L. Toney, ’96, immediate former national president

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Leading Ladies: MSU women leaders set course for success With learning, research and service at the heart of Mississippi State’s success, a key component intertwined with these hallmarks is the institution’s focus on diversity. One area impacted by this effort is the university’s advancement of women in leadership roles.

10

Former MSU President Zacharias remembered as visionary leader Donald W. Zacharias, the president emeritus of Mississippi State who served from 1985-1997, died March 3 at the age of 77 of complications from multiple sclerosis. Second in tenure only to Stephen D. Lee, MSU’s founding president, Zacharias brought the university to a new level of prominence during his 12 and one-half years of service.

14

Zacharias book touts Mediterranean diet Many people ask their healthcare providers, “What’s the best diet for my health?” While there may not be any one answer, MSU alumnus Eric Zacharias outlines a tasty option in his book The Mediterranean Diet: A Clinician’s Guide for Patient Care.

16

Love of 4-H leads a Bulldog to Gator country Some people just sit on the edge of the pool and dangle their feet in the water, while others jump right in. When faced with a major career choice, Cassandra Weston took the plunge.

20

MSU Police Department has seen dramatic evolution As a result of the hard work and dedication of administrators from the President’s Office on down, the MSU Police Department has evolved over the years into a modern law enforcement agency serving the needs of a diverse 21st century community.

24

Public service just a way of life for Holland family Some may call members of the Holland family “politicians,” but others would call public service the vocation of a Mississippi family with roots in agriculture, a sprinkling of musical talents, and an outlook on life that finds uncommon meaning in common, everyday life.

26

Improving the gameday experience with expanded facilities The football fan experience is going to be enhanced in a big way beginning in the fall of 2014, thanks to ongoing construction at Mississippi State’s Davis Wade Stadium.

34 Campus news 46 Alumni news 57 Foundation news 62 Class news 64 In memoriam

Cover photos and Illustration by Megan Bean and Matt Watson

Mississippi State Alumnus is published three times a year by the Office of University Relations and the

Mississippi State University Alumni Association at Mississippi State, Miss. Send address changes to Alumni Director, P.O. Box AA, Mississippi State, MS 39762-5526; telephone 662-325-7000; or e-mail fcarr@advservices.msstate.edu. alumni.msstate.edu // twitter.com/msstatealumni // facebook.com/msstatealumni m ississippi state A lumnus

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Ladies

L E A DI NG

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Camille Scales Young

Shelby Balius

Dr. Meghan Millea

Beth Clay

MSU women leaders set course for success

W

By Harriet Laird and Allison Matthews | Photos By Megan Bean ith learning, research

“It was always the place I wanted to be

Young since she made that fateful switch in the

and service at the heart

from as far back as I can remember,” she said,

mid 1990s. She worked as a graduate assistant

of Mississippi State

explaining that as a child her parents brought

in the state’s 4-H office on campus and in

University’s success,

her to many of the university’s sports events.

the university’s agricultural communications

a key component intertwined with these

Also a very active participant in her county’s

department, a combination that helped her

hallmarks is the institution’s focus on diversity.

4-H activities that were held on the MSU

land her first job with the Mississippi Farm

One area significantly impacted by this effort

campus, Young said her regular visits to

Bureau Federation in Jackson.

is the university’s advancement of women in

Bulldog Country “made it seem like home.”

leadership roles.

It was as a high school senior, though,

Then, in 2001, she rekindled a relationship she had formed when interviewing many

Camille Scales Young, Shelby Balius,

that the 1994 MSU alumnus honestly knew

years earlier for the Coca-Cola Scholarship.

Meghan Millea and Beth Clay are four

Mississippi State was her college destination

It was happenstance that former Mississippi

matchless examples of the expanded influence

after she was highly recruited by colleges

Gov. William Winter was on the scholarship

and increased visibility of women leaders

nationwide as a prestigious Coca-Cola Scholars

interview panel, and the two had met on a tour

on campus. Their deep connections to their

Foundation award winner, one of only 100 in

of the Atlanta Botanical Garden.

historic land-grant institution, combined with

the U.S. receiving the $20,000 award.

their integrity, determination and humility,

Young said, “Certainly I was considering

“While at Farm Bureau, I had begun to do some state and federal government relations

make them four stars that the MSU family

other places, but none of them felt right.

work that had me constantly traveling. As I

embraces as leading ladies.

Mississippi State still felt like home, just like all

started to have children, I realized I couldn’t

of the other times I’d visited there.”

keep up that pace and that I wanted to stay

Camille Scales Young

Starting out at MSU in the field of aerospace

local,” she said, adding that she

For a woman who grew up “way out in the

engineering, the 18-year old college student

didn’t hesitate to contact her

country,” MSU Alumni Association President

thought her background in mathematics was

friend, Gov. Winter, for

Camille Scales Young has proven, both

going to send her into the world of science and

advice.

personally and professionally, that success is

technology, but the communication elective

about family tradition, ambition and support

courses she was taking at the time sent her in a

from others.

different direction.

A native of Shannon and graduate of

“I remember my dad saying, ‘So you’re going

Shannon High School, Young admits she

to be a communicator?’ It’s become a family joke

didn’t have many of the options that young

now when I’m home,” said the communications

people from larger communities possessed.

management graduate, who also received a

However, one of the places that did offer her

master’s degree in agriculture and extension

opportunity as a youngster was Mississippi

education in 1996.

State University.

Communication has definitely been good to

m ississippi state A lumnus

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For the next 10 years, Young worked

of Jackson, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.,

alongside Gov. Winter at the Jackson law firm

Madison County School District Parent/Teacher

of Watkins Ludlam Winter and Stennis as a

Organization, among others.

member of the government relations practice

“It’s important to me to help everybody I can,

group. In 2011, she moved to Washington D.C.-

one person at a time,” she said in describing her

based Cornerstone Government Affairs, which

philosophy on being a leader in life. ”I’m a firm

operates a Jackson office.

believer in the saying, ‘To whom much is given,

As a government relations practitioner, she works to make sure laws that are beneficial to her clients are drafted, introduced and passed in the Mississippi Legislature, while also seeing that any

much is required.’”

Shelby Balius

Even though Shelby Balius grew up two states

laws that could be detrimental to her clients are not

away, Mississippi State University has always been

passed or minimized.

part of her family.

Young believes she has an innate ability to be an

When the Georgia Bulldog fan seemed set as

advocate or leader for others, many who are less

a high school student on going to the University

fortunate or underrepresented.

of Georgia in her home state, her father, an MSU

“Being raised by parents who have always been so giving of their time and talents, I knew that helping others was what I wanted to be able to do

alumnus, said she had the right mascot, but needed to adjust her school colors.

Balius made her first official visit as a

on a daily basis. I wanted to do something that

prospective student with the Distinguished

would never feel like work, and I absolutely love

Scholars Program. She said it was then that she

what I’m doing,” she said.

truly fell in love with Mississippi State.

With a busy work schedule and life of a working

Being selected as the Charles and Pat Lee

mom, Young said she never hesitated when asked to

Scholarship recipient for the Distinguished Scholars

lead the MSU Alumni Association as its president for

Program was a good indication of Balius’ leadership

the 2012-13 year. Having been an Alumni Delegate

potential. The program offers a significant scholarship,

as a student and a longtime member of the Central

and students engage in community service projects,

Mississippi Alumni Chapter, she said she was

monthly meetings with mentors and annual travel

actually looking for more ways to be involved.

programs to visit other institutions of higher learning.

“Before I was married, before I had children, and

But when Balius first arrived on campus, the

before I had a career–I had Mississippi State,” she

homesick freshman felt anything but confident.

said. “I’m one of those worker bees, and I don’t mind

“I spent much of the first three weeks in my room

doing whatever needs to be done.”

crying,” she said. A talk with her father encouraged

She gives credit to her husband, Keith, who helps manage school days and activities for the couple’s three children, Amber, Will and Kayla.

“He allows me to do all the extra things that I

her, and his advice was to get out and get involved.

It was then that the 2012-13 Student Association president first connected with the SA. Once she got a taste for service with the

do,” she said, mentioning her many other volunteer

organization that is the representative body for

roles with groups such as the Junior League

MSU students, she couldn’t get enough.

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“I have the notion that I want to give back because Mississippi State has made me the person that I am today. It has given me opportunities that I never would have been able to experience.”

– Shelby Balius, 2012-13 Student Association President

“My friends joke that I major in involvement and minor in business,” Balius laughed.

“I have the notion that I want to give back because Mississippi State has made me

differences by working with administrators

Her work in the SA has definitely shown

and bringing issues from a student perspective

Balius first hand that it takes a team to

to the forefront.

accomplish goals. But the SA hasn’t been her

“Seeing that the president could have impact,

only extra-curricular activity as a student. She also has served MSU as an Orientation Leader.

the person that I am today. It has given me

it made me want to be that student,” Balius

opportunities that I never would have been

said. She explained that while a one-year term

able to experience,” she added.

is a relatively short time period to accomplish

students who I probably would never have met

major platform issues, the generations of leaders

otherwise,” she said.

Balius became the third female SA president

“It exposed me to a really diverse set of

As an Orientation Leader, Balius frequently

and first female non-Greek president when she

handing down the SA administration from

was elected in spring 2012. In her position, she

one class to another allows the organization

thought back to her own initial perceptions

has directed a 40–member cabinet and eight-

to persistently pursue common goals among

of campus. “It was the atmosphere that I

member executive council in programming,

successive leaders.

experienced when I came for my campus visit.

event planning and execution, and advocacy for student interests.

In her earlier SA positions as chief

“It’s multi-year team work. A lot depends

Every single person made eye contact and asked

on the ability from one administration

me how I was doing. It exudes an atmosphere of

to the next protecting and passing down

friendliness and camaraderie,” she said.

As she nears graduation, Balius has many

administrative officer, director of academic

institutional knowledge,” Balius said. She

affairs on the SA cabinet, and a member

explained that it’s helpful to the SA to engage

choices ahead. Her interests are broad, but

of the history and traditions committee,

lower classmen, and to retain those who are

her most immediate goal is to work toward

Balius watched previous SA presidents and

involved throughout their undergraduate

an MBA in the next few years. She envisions a

admired how they were able to make positive

years. She said she was very fortunate to work

career in a large corporation.

closely with her predecessors Rhett Hobart and Thomas Sellers.

She said one initiative started in previous

“I really like the fast-paced nature of the private sector,” she said.

Because businesses have great opportunities

administrations, which she has continued to

to make a positive impact on the communities

pursue, is the implementation of online teacher

they serve, Balius said she likes the idea of

evaluations. She said that effort is nearing

helping a corporation identify service and

completion, and this spring a pilot program

philanthropic opportunities. She said her work

tested its effectiveness.

always will be motivated by service.

“It is rewarding to see a goal met and to

“That’s what it all goes back to for me,” she

know it’s the fruition of efforts that have been

said. Balius said she believes she was put on

made over time. I have been part of the team

Earth for a reason, and that reason is to make a

working on it for some time through the SA,”

difference for others.

Balius said.

As a double major in finance and

Balius said her biggest take-away from her time at MSU includes an appreciation for

management, Balius studies the effects of

interacting with different people, from MSU

various leadership styles.

President Mark Keenum, Vice President

“You can study it all day long, but you never

of Student Affairs Bill Kibler and other

understand unless you’re actually a part of it or

administrators, to her fellow students who

watching it happen,” she said.

have similar goals of service.

m ississippi state A lumnus

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“Certainly I was considering other places, but none of them felt right.

Mississippi State still felt like home, just like all of the other times I’d visited there.”

– Camille Scales Young, MSU Alumni Association National President

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objective. As a professional, the

landscape in the Midwest, made

have been most impactful for me

process of identifying a goal and

the subsequent job offer even more

personally. I value getting to know

then working passionately toward

inviting.

people from all different worlds, but

the prize of achieving it is ongoing,

finding a common thread in such a

regardless of whether it relates

great university,” Balius said.

to teaching, research, service or

“The relationships that I’ve built

Meghan Millea

personal responsibilities.

When interviewing for a faculty

“Fortunately, they decided I was a good fit as well,” she said.

The professor of economics has established herself as a Bulldog.

She is popular among students and

Dr. Meghan Millea has achieved

position at Mississippi State after

in 2012 received the Excellence in

many of the goals that she

earning her doctorate from the

Undergraduate Teaching Award. Not

envisioned when selecting

University of Nebraska at Lincoln,

only is she talented as an educator

an academic career as an

Millea found what she was looking

who can convey economics in a way

undergraduate.

for—other professionals who

that often stimulates those light-bulb

loved their jobs, the discipline of

moments for both business majors

Western Kentucky University, Millea

economics, their students and their

and other students, Millea has put

did something common among

university.

her skills to work in numerous

As an undergraduate student at

many who earn success in their

The fact that her February

careers—she simply decided upon

interview at MSU featured a campus

a career path and set a goal which

that she said was “fabulous and

she kept in sight until attaining her

green,” a contrast to the winter

leadership positions, all for the purpose of helping MSU. Millea is currently serving her second year as president of the

Faculty Senate. She began her

recommendations to President

participation from the university

previous role as vice president just as

Keenum.

community to share their expertise

Dr. Mark Keenum was joining MSU

She said the opportunities to serve

as the institution’s 19th president.

the university in roles outside of her

Millea said the university faced

teaching position have helped her

significant budget cuts, and Keenum

grow.

put together the Committee on

“This job has so much

and experience to the benefit of the institution.

Millea said through the faculty senate, she has enjoyed being a representative voice.

“To me, the faculty represent

Efficiencies and Innovations, which

opportunity for learning” she added.

included Millea.

She’s also appreciated forming

the front line of the university and

stronger professional relationships

are at the heart of its mission. The

experience. We had to meet the

with other people across the

fundamental role of the faculty

budgetary restraints imposed,

university who make huge impacts

senate is to provide as productive

but still protect the core mission,”

through their roles. “The university

an environment as possible which

Millea said. She emphasized that

is made up of extraordinary, smart,

touches on facilities planning, faculty

serving on the Committee on

passionate, dedicated people who

assessments, and interactions with

Efficiencies and Innovations was

can think creatively and practically

students. The senate achieves these

an experience in which she got to

about problem-solving.”

objectives through conversations,

“It was a significant learning

work with “amazing people” who

She said that the president and

worked together for many, many

provost have created a university

hours to make credible budgetary

climate that invites broad

committees, and operative policies,” Millea said.

She added that the organization

m ississippi state A lumnus

7

“To me, the faculty represent the front line of the university and are at the heart of its mission.

The fundamental role of the faculty senate is to provide as productive an environment as possible which touches on facilities planning, faculty assessments, and interactions with students.”

– Meghan Millea,

2011-13 MSU Faculty Senate President

collaborates with the Student

said. “Satisfaction lies in inherently

MSU degree—the first in her

Association and Staff Council and

enjoying your work and family

family to earn a college degree—to

has representation on nearly every

responsibilities.”

obtaining a law degree and later

committee at the university.

One of the interesting things

of her success in life to personal

university in various capacities is

has always felt a deep sense of

commitment, self-determination

that she has to be very conscientious

responsibility. Consistently, the

and a desire to treat people fairly.

of her different “hats” as she engages

Mississippi State University

in different roles. For example, she

alumnus has chosen to meet those

describe it, but I’ve always been

represents the College of Business on

responsibilities with hard work and

willing to work hard and to help

the Faculty Senate, but as president,

leadership. That credo has led her

people. I just enjoy it,” said the

she represents the faculty at large.

to a position as one of Mississippi’s

founding partner of The Clay Firm,

She admits that being a voice of

most influential movers-and-shakers

which she established in 2001.

the faculty is sometimes especially

in the fast-paced and tumultuous

challenging because of the diversity

public policy arena.

of opinions that are held by the

Few individuals have had more

“I don’t really know how to

In addition to her many professional responsibilities, Clay has a generous heart and spends time

faculty. For many issues, it’s hard to

impact on the fine points of public

serving on boards for many civic and

represent one collective voice of the

policy in Mississippi over the last

charity organizations, such as the

“the faculty,” she said.

quarter century than Clay, whose

Eudora Welty Foundation. Another

dynamic abilities have pulled her

organization which is very special

responsibilities with her husband,

into the orbit of some of the nation’s

to her is Hope Village, a home for

associate professor Jon Rezek, head

most successful corporations and

neglected and abused children in her

of the university’s international

some of Mississippi’s most powerful

hometown.

business program. The couple are

public officials and public bodies.

parents of two boys. Millea said she

Recognized as one of Mississippi’s

Clay didn’t hesitate when the MSU Bulldog Club asked her a few

has learned that achieving balance is

most respected and most effective

years ago to help build the Maroon

a long-term concept. Balance is not

lobbyists, the West Lauderdale High

and White fan base and raise funds

achieved over a day or a week, but

School graduate recognized at an

for the MSU Athletic Department.

rather in recognizing ebbs and flows

early age that she possessed a deep

Asked to originally serve as a

over a longer time horizon.

desire to achieve and to serve others.

member of the board, she became

As a youngster, she traveled 15

the organization’s president in 2011.

of effort in terms of university

miles to school each day, excelled in

When asked about her involvement,

service, sometimes teaching is more

academics and, as a senior, received

she quickly pointed to her strong

time intensive, and other times

the American Legion Award for

belief in the Bulldog Club’s mission.

research projects are the focal point.

her leadership, scholarship and

Balance is achieved over periods

citizenship.

“Sometimes work claims a lot

of years and over a career,” Millea

sp ring 2013

relations firm, Clay attributes much

Since childhood, Beth Clay

Millea notes about serving the

Millea balances her personal

8

Beth Clay

opening her own government

From earning an undergraduate

“A successful athletics program is a tremendous asset for any university, and MSU is no different. Quality

athletics creates an atmosphere of

understatement, as she instilled

excitement and attracts prospective

in the commission’s workers a

students to campus which, in turn,

profound pride for the upkeep of

increases enrollment. MSU’s many

the State’s buildings and grounds.

nationally recognized academic

She also served and helped secure

programs complemented by our

funding during a major renovation

successful athletics provide our

of the Capitol.

students with the ultimate college experience,” she said.

In the back of her mind, though, she knew that if she was going to

Clay’s lifelong connection to

ever practice law she needed to do

MSU began when she transferred

so while those skills were still top-

from East Mississippi Community

of-mind, so she joined the Jackson

College in Scooba to the Starkville

firm of Thomas Price Alston Jones

campus on an academic scholarship.

& Davis, rising to partner status.

Graduating with a bachelor’s degree

At the time, she was the only one

in English, she began a seven-year

at the firm doing government

stint as a teacher in the Jackson

relations and spent many hours at

area schools while her husband

the Capitol on behalf of clients who

completed medical school.

were trying to see that certain laws

why I’m doing this today. One client

passed or failed.

recommended me to another, and

Following her husband in a couple of professional moves back

Her first taste of victory came

my client base just began to grow.”

Clay made the decision to open

and forth from Jackson to Meridian,

when she represented the Motion

Clay completed her law degree as

Picture Association of America.

her own firm in 2001, and today

a commuter from the Mississippi

Her task was to defeat a bill that

represents such entities as Fortune

College School of Law and then,

would have required her client to

500 corporations, hospitals and

upon returning to Jackson, landed

bring in every movie produced for

health care providers, professional

a job as assistant Secretary of State

a screening by the movie theater

associations, nonprofit organizations

in 1980.

owners before it could be shown

and public utilities.

It was her first taste of capital

in Mississippi. She was able to

Clay has built a reputation as a

city politics and was also her

successfully defeat the bill with

leader in government relations in

introduction to the Capitol

a very close vote in committee.

Mississippi through her openness

Commission, which managed all

Since this was a very intense and

and honesty, developing lasting

state facilities and coordinated the

high profile issue, Clay interfaced

friendships and cultivating a strong

space accommodations for state

with most every member of the

network of colleagues. Her

agencies. In 1983, she became the

legislature during that session.

“normal” days during the legislative

commission’s executive director.

To say that Clay was “hands on” in that appointment is an

“By the time that session ended,

session begin around 5 a.m. and

the legislative members knew me,

end when the lights go out at the

and I knew them,” she said. “That’s

Capitol.

“A successful athletics program is a tremendous asset for any university, and MSU is no different. Quality athletics creates an atmosphere of excitement and attracts prospective students to campus which, in turn, increases enrollment.”

– Beth Clay,

2011-13 MSU Bulldog Club President

m ississippi state A lumnus

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F ormer M S U P resident

Zacharias

remembered as visionary leader

By HARRIET LAIRD and allison matthews

D

onald W. Zacharias, the

visit during the Christmas holidays, Dr.

president emeritus of

Zacharias was still providing valuable,

Mississippi State University

thoughtful counsel to me and still had

who served from 1985-97, died March

the welfare of MSU students at the top

3 at the age of 77 of complications from

of his mind. I counted him as a friend, a

multiple sclerosis after an extended

mentor, and an inspiration. Don Zacharias

illness. Second in tenure only to Stephen

was a man of great courage and dignity,

D. Lee, the founding president of the

and he was one of the most influential

state’s land-grant institution, Zacharias

leaders in the history of Mississippi higher

brought Mississippi State to a new level of

education.”

prominence during his 12 and one-half years of service.

Zacharias became a visionary for higher education in Mississippi when he was

Enrollment, private contributions,

named MSU’s 15th president in 1985 after

research and athletic achievement all

coming to the Starkville campus from the

grew significantly as part of Zacharias’

presidency of Western Kentucky University

legacy; one unmatched in the history of

in Bowling Green, Ky. During his tenure,

the university and one that the current

Zacharias raised MSU’s visibility and

MSU leader says will definitely stand the

reputation nationally. Enrollment climbed

test of time.

to the largest in the state at almost 16,000

MSU President Mark E. Keenum

and African-American enrollment more

said, “Dr. Donald Zacharias was a

than doubled to 2,200, 15 percent of the

transformative figure at Mississippi

student body and the highest percentage

State University. He really helped bring

among SEC schools.

MSU into the modern era, and he did

Private support surged under Zacharias,

so by developing a broad vision for

as annual contributions rose from $4

the leadership that Mississippi needed

million at the start of his presidency

from a land grant university. At our last

to more than $42 million in 1996. He

Donald W. Zacharias served as MSU president from 1985-97, second in tenure only to the founding president Stephen D. Lee.

10

sp ring 2013

oversaw the first major gifts drive at

Mitchell Memorial Library. He also was

the university, the five-year Campaign

instrumental in the construction of the

for Mississippi State, which had more

Joe Frank Sanderson Center, which

than $143 million committed from

opened in 1998.

alumni and friends when he left office in 1997, shattering the initial goal of

from Georgetown College in Kentucky

$110 million. Also, the university’s

in 1957 and a master’s degree from

endowment grew six-fold over a dozen

Indiana University in 1959, where he also

years to almost $130 million.

completed a doctorate in communication

In research, funding from external

Law from Georgetown for distinguished

million in one year. The university

contributions to the college. career in 1963 as a faculty member in

by the National Science Foundation, and

communication at Indiana University,

MSU became nationally known for use

he served until 1969 when he joined

of technology in the classroom. Under

the University of Texas communication

his tenure, the university created the

department, attaining full professor rank

state’s first site on the Internet.

before entering administration.

In administrative roles with the

Final Four and Sweet Sixteen were

University of Texas System, he held

among the outstanding athletic

positions as executive assistant to

accomplishments listed among

the chancellor of the 14-campus

Zacharias’ successes, as student-athletes

statewide system and as assistant to

also excelled academically. Football team

the president of the Austin campus.

members reached a graduation rate of 70

He then spent six years as Western

percent for six consecutive years, placing

Kentucky’s president, creating the first

them near the top among all Division

comprehensive development program

1 programs. Other notable athletic

and significantly raising academic

endeavors included College World Series

standards before taking the helm at

appearances in baseball, bowl games

Mississippi State.

in football, and SEC titles in tennis and

Bottom, Acclaimed author John Grisham, an MSU alumnus, spoke at the Zacharias Memorial Service in March.

Beginning his higher education

Engineering Research Centers funded

Trips to the NCAA men’s basketball

Center, Dr. Zacharias welcomed U.S. President George H.W. Bush as a graduation speaker in the late 1980s.

in 1963. He held an honorary Doctorate of

sources doubled, seeing a high of $80 became home to one of a handful of

Top, the Zacharias family, from left, Leslie, Eric, Dr. Zacharias, Alan, and Tommie.

Zacharias received a bachelor’s degree

Born in Salem, Ind., in 1935,

golf. Zacharias also saw that women

Zacharias is survived by his wife of 53

athletic offerings were expanded under

years, Tommie Kline Zacharias, and

his guidance.

their three adult children, Eric, Leslie

From the beginning of his tenure,

and Alan, and three grandchildren, all of

Zacharias understood the importance

Boulder, Colo. He is also survived by a

of enhanced campus buildings and

sister, Mary Catherine Zacharias Collier,

grounds in recruiting and retaining

of Yucaipa, Calif.

students at MSU. He saw the completion of an expansion and renovation to

Upon his resignation from MSU in 1997, Zacharias said: “I saw things in

m ississippi state A lumnus

11

MSU opened Zacharias Village in 2005, a co-educational residence hall complex.

Mississippi State University that others might not have seen. I felt that I had made the right decision to be at

at the right place and the right time and leaves a profound

this university because I liked both what it stood for and

impact on his institution.

its overall character. I liked its mission, and I liked the students and alumni. I saw the potential.”

At a public memorial service held on campus the week following his passing, friends and former colleagues spoke

remembered, and cherished, not only as a great leader, but also as a great person,” Grisham said.

Longtime MSU administrator and former interim president Roy H. Ruby said Zacharias had a broad

fellow man.

knowledge of higher education and a vision.

“When he came here, he had a vision of where he

part of the program. While Zacharias’s tenure as president

wanted to take Mississippi State, and with that vision

began after Grisham graduated from MSU in 1977 and

and his leadership, he impacted all areas of the campus,”

finished law school at Ole Miss, he got to know the future

Ruby said. Ruby is the namesake of one of the residence

author when he was a rookie member of the Mississippi

halls that now makes up Zacharias Village, a residence

House of Representatives. He said Zacharias would visit the

hall complex.

legislature in search of funding for the university.

“When he came to town, we’d go out and have long

sp ring 2013

“As long as this place is here, ‘Dr. Z’ will be

of his dedication to Mississippi State, his family and his Acclaimed author and MSU alumnus John Grisham was

12

Grisham said occasionally a university president comes

“He was a great college president because he loved and respected people, so he connected with people,”

dinners. We wouldn’t talk about politics. We’d talk about

Ruby said. “But perhaps more important than his

important things like college baseball, higher ed history

accomplishments as a college president was the kind of

and books.”

man he was,” he added.

Jimmy Abraham, executive director of the MSU Alumni Association, said Zacharias was a master communicator who used his many talents to share stories about the great things happening at the university, always giving credit to others.

He recalled Zacharias reading a letter from a parent at a general faculty meeting who praised a professor who had gone above and beyond the call of duty to help his son.

Abraham said, “After reading the letter, Dr. Zacharias paused, looked up, and said, and I quote, ‘This is a great reminder to all of us that nothing is routine when dealing with the lives of other people.’

“Vintage Dr. Zacharias--nothing was ever routine to him when dealing with the lives of others. He was committed to helping everyone as much as he could. Nothing pleased him more than to see others succeed,” Abraham said.

“As great a president as he was--and he was a great president--he was an even better person,” Abraham said. “His footprints will forever be on this campus, and all of us who love Mississippi State will never stop building on the foundation he helped lay.”

Zacharias’s son Eric Zacharias gave a response on behalf of the family and noted the many fond memories he and his brother, Allen, and sister, Leslie, have of their parents and their father’s long distinguished career as a professor and university president.

“What’s it like to have a father or husband who becomes a university president? We’re unanimous as a family: it was great, and it was mostly great because of all the Top, Dr. Zacharias in front of MSU’s Chapel of Memories.

wonderful people who brought us into their

Bottom, MSU Libraries was a passion and top priority for Dr. Zacharias.

Zacharias said.

world and welcomed us and embraced us,”

“As long as this place is here, ‘Dr. Z’ will be remembered, and cherished, not only as a great leader, but also as a great person.”

– John Grisham, MSU alumnus and best-selling author m ississippi state A lumnus

13

Eric zacharias’ book touts

d i e t

M

By Margaret Kovar | Photos by Megan Bean any people ask their healthcare

in biological sciences. He went on to attend Vanderbilt

providers “What’s the best diet for

University for medical school and the University of

my health?” While there may not be

Colorado for specialty training, where he maintains an

any one succinct answer, Mississippi

academic appointment as a clinical professor.

State alumnus Dr. Eric Zacharias outlines a tasty option in his book The Mediterranean Diet: A Clinician’s Guide

1996, Zacharias began his practice at the Boulder Medical

for Patient Care.

Center in 1999 after several years of private practice in

Published by Springer in May 2012, the book

Denver. He emphasizes preventative health care, health

explains to readers what a physician would want them

maintenance and early disease detection, and also

to know about their nutrition. It outlines the effects the

treats the spectrum of acute and chronic adult medical

Mediterranean diet has on specific diseases, including

problems.

heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s, depression, cancer, allergies, asthma, arthritis and diabetes.

A detailed analysis of the specific nutrients in a

To gather information for the guide, Zacharias and his family traveled through the Mediterranean for six months. They started in southern France and then

Mediterranean diet and the food groups containing them

traveled through Italy, Spain and Egypt, experiencing as

also is included in the guide. A daily meal plan and recipe

many different regions throughout the Mediterranean as

section that he prepared can be found in the patient

they could.

resources section.

The son of the late MSU president emeritus Donald W.

Zacharias wanted to observe how people in these regions eat during their daily lives and how they manage

Zacharias and his wife Tommie, Zacharias has had a long-

to eat healthy food that is also delicious. He found that the

standing interest in health and nutrition as a modality for

emphasis there was on the amount of flavor and quality

preventative medicine.

for the money, while in the U.S. the focus is often on the

“Most of the training that we do in U.S. medicine

volume of food for the money.

involves taking care of people once they already have

This, in part, showed that while the word “diet” in the

complex diseases,” he said. “But what we don’t spend

U.S. is often thought of in terms of deprivation, it doesn’t

enough time on is prevention and focusing on how you

have to be.

prevent these diseases in the first place.”

While an undergraduate at MSU, Zacharias majored

14

Practicing as an internal medicine specialist since

sp ring 2013

“In the places we visited, portions did tend to be significantly smaller, but it was hard to notice with such

“Most of the training that we do in U.S. medicine involves taking care of people once they already have complex diseases,” he said. “But what we don’t spend enough time on is prevention and focusing on how you prevent these diseases in the first place.”

– Dr. Eric Zacharias MSU alumnus and author

flavorful, rich food,” he said of his experiences.

Zacharias also pointed out that every single meal does not have to follow the diet perfectly.

“If you do well enough, that’s all you need to

book, using the same material but slightly reducing the academic tone and expanding the recipes and other sections.

Zacharias said his goal is to help people

do,” he said. “Long-term healthy eating is about

improve their diets to reduce their risk of

consuming less animal fats, less processed foods

preventable diseases.

and less simple and refined sugars.”

The book already sold more copies in its first

“It’s a privilege to provide care for an acute heart attack when someone needs it, but with

eight months than it was projected to sell in its

healthy eating, you can prevent dozens and

four-year run. Zacharias plans to write another

dozens of such events,” he said.

m ississippi state A lumnus

15

4-H agent Cassandra Weston, an MSU alumnus, doesn’t encounter many gators in her busy schedule of serving urban Dade County and Miami, Fla. residents.

16

sp ring 2013

Love of 4-h leads a bulldog to

gator country Story and photos By bob ratliff

S

ome people just sit on the edge of

Tallahatchie County when Weston was a member.

the pool and dangle their feet in

“Cassandra was willing to do whatever needed

the water, while others jump right

doing,” Radcliff said. “She always expected a lot of

in. When faced with a major career

herself and her peers.”

choice, Cassandra Weston took the plunge.

Weston received her bachelor’s in business management in 2007 at Mississippi State and worked in the university’s Academic Advising

Weston’s future changed in 2010 when she saw a notice of a job opening for a 4-H agent at the University of Florida.

“I wasn’t sure at first if I should apply, but

Center while trying to decide what path her career

everyone who knew my love for 4-H encouraged me

would ultimately take.

to apply,” Weston said. “I had been serving as a 4-H

“I thought I would find something in the business world, but the people who know me best, my friends and family, kept saying I needed to follow my heart,” she said.

Before she left home to attend MSU, Weston’s effervescent personality and a knack for never

volunteer in Lowndes County, which made me sure that I wanted a 4-H career.”

She did apply and was interviewed on campus in Gainesville and hired to serve as a 4-H agent in Dade County starting in January 2011.

Her parents, L.Q. and Wilma Weston, were

meeting a stranger had already expanded her world

concerned about the distance and the possible

beyond her tiny hometown of Cascilla on the edge

challenges of their daughter’s new job, but they knew

of the Mississippi Delta in Tallahatchie County.

she was well prepared.

The three big influences on her early life were her

“We know she loves working with the children

family, church and the MSU Extension Service’s 4-H

and that the Lord will provide her the strength to

youth development program.

meet any situation,” her mother said.

“I joined 4-H in the third grade, and 4-H was an

Dade County, which includes Miami, has a

important part of my life as I grew up,” Weston said.

population of 2.5 million and more than 100

“Participation in a variety of 4-H programs helped

schools, making it the fourth largest school district

me meet new people, adapt to different situations,

in the nation. While the 4-H mission of providing

and prepare for the future.”

hands-on learning activities in the areas of science,

She took every opportunity to learn and to serve in 4-H, said Sherry Radcliff, the 4-H agent for

citizenship and healthy living for young people aged 9 through 19 is the same nationwide, approaches

m ississippi state A lumnus

17

“Participation in a variety of 4-H programs helped me meet new people, adapt to different situations, and prepare for the future.”

Adult volunteers assist Weston with hands-on learning activities focused on science, citizenship and healthy living at open houses and other 4-H events. to programs are tailored to meet the

also my work family and my family

Mississippi because he had a friend

needs of rural, urban or suburban

of friends.”

who was stationed there while in

environments.

the military during the 1960s and didn’t like it,” she said. “I asked

group of students who welcome new

him how many people he knows

and prospective students to campus,

from Mississippi, and his answer

population in south Florida, but

conduct guided tours and provide

was ‘none.’ I told him, ‘well now

what surprised me the most is that

information on daily life on campus.

you know me, and I’ll change your

adapting.

“I knew about the large Latin

it’s not just the Latin culture here,” she said. “There are large numbers of Jamaicans, Haitians and Asians. In

She continues to be an ambassador for MSU and her home state.

Not long after starting her new job

fact, there are not too many cultures

in Miami, Weston was shopping for

that you can’t find in Miami.”

a special cake for a friend’s party. She

opinion of Mississippi.’ ” She did, and now his bakery is her source anytime an occasion calls for something special.

Her tenacity and natural Southern

found a small bakery that could make

charm also serve her well on the

friends in Mississippi, Weston has

just what she was looking for and was

job, especially when working with

made new friends and even been

quickly engaged in conversation with

teenagers.

“adopted” by some.

the owner, who is from Cuba.

While she misses her family and

“A Jamaican family in my church has adopted me,” she said. “There’s

sp ring 2013

At Mississippi State, Weston was a member of MSU Roadrunners, a

Weston also had to do some

18

– Cassandra Weston, MSU alumnus

“When I told him I am from Mississippi, he said he didn’t like

“We train teens to work with younger 4-H’ers because it’s easier for them to reach the younger kids,”

Top, Weston works with horticulturist Vanessa Campoverde and other members of the Dade County Extension staff to develop 4-H educational programs.

Right, Through programs emphasizing the “power of youth,” agents and volunteer leaders prepare club members to make positive contributions to their families and communities. she said. “When I do a program, I

in the county, and members exhibit

skills. That’s a big part of what 4-H

start by just sitting and talking with

their work at the annual Miami/

provides.”

the teenagers. It’s easier for them

Dade Fair, which is larger than many

to warm up to you when you find

state fairs.

Weston is still part of the Mississippi State family. She is working on her master’s degree in

common interests, like music.”

“Our members have 2,000 to

One of the big differences

3,000 exhibits at the fair each year,”

agriculture and extension education.

Weston said.

Her formal education and what

Weston has found between 4-H in Mississippi and in Dade County is livestock.

“There is a lot of 4-H participation in livestock shows in Mississippi, and

The biggest part of her job,

she is learning as part of one of

however, is providing enrichment

the world’s most culturally diverse

activities in the schools.

communities are helping her

“We provide programs on

prepare for a lifelong career.

“When you live and work in a

there are some horse clubs here but

healthy living, money management,

not a lot,” she said. “Dade County

nutrition, public speaking and

place like Miami, you quickly realize

is large, however, and extends well

other types of activities that help

that it’s not all glitz and glamor,” she

beyond Miami, so there are rural

kids with personal growth and to

said. “The people are real, and their

areas with a lot of fruit and other

become more involved in their

problems and ambitions are the same

horticulture crops.”

communities,” she said. “Kids want

as anywhere else. Once you realize

to express themselves, whether it’s

that and start to build relationships,

through public speaking, art or other

you begin to feel at home.”

Community gardens and crafts are popular parts of the 4-H program

m ississippi state A lumnus

19

MSU alumnus Dr. Ervin Fox, recipient of the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers, the highest honor given by the U.S. government to science and engineering professionals in the early stages of their research

MSU Police Chief Georgia Lindley with officers Martha Carradine, Bo Shelton and Bryan Farrar

20

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MSU

Police

department has seen dramatic evolution

Verification of just how far things have evolved over the decades was recognized officially in early 2005 when the department, under the leadership of then-chief Tom Johnson, became the first at a Mississippi institution of higher learning, and only the third law enforcement agency in the state, to gain accreditation from the Fairfax, Va.-based Commission on the Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies.

Even today, the MSU and Starkville police departments, along with the Oktibbeha County Sheriff’s Office, are among less than a dozen Mississippi agencies holding the certification.

“Our department is comprised of professional commissioned police officers and support staff,” said Chief Georgia Lindley, who succeeded Johnson in 2005. She proudly points out that MSU now is in its third consecutive CALEA re-accreditation period, adding, “It is a highly prized recognition of law

By Sammy McDavid | Photos By Beth Wynn

A

enforcement excellence throughout North America.”

Participation is voluntary. To be accredited, a department

mong articles in the 1978 spring edition

must meet or exceed more than 440 standards representing best

of Alumnus magazine was a feature that

practices agreed upon by the International Association of Chiefs

highlighted the history and operation of what

of Police, National Organization of Black Law Enforcement

then was called the Mississippi State University

Executives, National Sheriff ’s Association, and Police Executive

Security Department.

Early on in the piece, Burrel S. “Bill” Hood, the legendary silver-

Research Forum.

When Hood retired as chief, MSU had a full-time staff of about

haired former chief who was not long retired, openly lamented how

20, with two part-time secretaries and four student employees

often students, faculty and others only associated the department’s

who served as night radio dispatchers. That, in itself, was a major

work with the many traffic citations that found their way onto

improvement from, say, 1940 when then-Mississippi State College

vehicle windshields. Pointing out that “we have to give them or

only employed a couple of night watchmen who primarily looked

traffic couldn’t move on campus,” the veteran law officer expressed

out for fires. In the early 1950s, a now-designated campus police

exasperation that “there are so many other things we do that people don’t know about.”

Thirty-five years later, tickets still are being written—though now primarily by members of the Office of Parking Operations staff—and vehicle traffic remains a major campus challenge.

There have been many significant changes, however. As a result of the hard work and dedication of leaders like Hood, his successors and other administrators from the President’s Office and Division of Student Affairs on down, the MSU Police Department today is regarded as a modern law enforcement agency serving the needs of a diverse 21st century community.

Police Sgt. Virginia Rich teaches a self-defense class.

m ississippi state A lumnus

21

Police Officer Thad Edwards directs traffic on “Movin’ You to MSU” day, a busy time when residence halls open to students for the fall semester. department was placed under the Dean of Students Office, with Dean D.W. Aiken—

1979 as one of the first female officers.

A Starkville native, Lindley holds MSU

another legendary campus figure—holding

bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social

the additional title of police chief.

work and rehabilitation counseling,

Officers Bo Shelton and Bryan Farrar patrol campus as part of their daily duties. the Starkville Police Department, Oktibbeha County Sheriff ’s Office and Mississippi Highway Patrol.”

A campus tragedy last year illustrated

respectively. She’s both a law enforcement

both how far the university, state and nation

Patrol officer, became chief in 1960 and soon

academy graduate and a licensed social

have evolved since panty raid days, and how

changed the department’s name from “police”

worker.

effective the local law enforcement agencies

Hood, a former Mississippi Highway

have become.

to “security.” He said at the time that he felt

“Even now, some people still refer to us

the new designation “was a more accurate

as ‘security,’ even though in the mid-1980s

reflection of the department’s goals.”

we transitioned back to being a police

university experienced its first on-campus

department,” Lindley said.

student murder. Lindley and assistant chief

Hood might have been influenced, in part, by the fact that his first night on the job, Oct.

At present, the department has an

During the 2012 spring semester, the

(and fellow MSU alumnus) Kenneth L.

16, saw what since has come to be regarded

authorized strength of 32 officers, a full-time

Spencer led the investigative operation, in

as the largest panty raid in campus history.

support staff of 13 and a number of student

close cooperation with their local police,

employees. Six patrol officers are assigned to

sheriff and highway patrol colleagues. The

Hood was reorganized along professional

each of the day, evening and midnight shifts.

combined effort, along with invaluable

law enforcement lines. Among the changes

The remainder of the staff includes a crime

assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service,

was a requirement that officers be Mississippi

prevention coordinator, along with several

resulted in the quick arrest of three suspects.

Law Enforcement Academy graduates.

administrators and investigators.

Whatever its name, the department under

The shooting at Evans Residence Hall was a shock and grave loss to the campus

Assistant chief John C. Moore Jr., a

“We are a full-service agency that is

Northeast Mississippian previously with

available 24 hours a day throughout the

community, but it also must be considered as

the Memphis, Tenn., Police Department,

year,” Lindley said. “We have worked hard to

an anomaly in the land-grant institution’s more

succeeded Hood in the top position. He was

build partnerships with the campus and local

than 130-year history.

department leader when Lindley joined in

communities. We work especially close with

22

sp ring 2013

Naturally, the tragedy grabbed headlines

Officer Emmitt Johnson hones his skills during a Law Enforcement Bicycle Association class.

around the country. Fortunately, quick

course, there are the continual vehicle and foot

apprehension of the suspects generated positive

patrols, and, since the mid-1990s, bicycle patrols.

responses throughout the campus community and beyond. Likely some praising the effort also had

effective that, by 1996, the department could

held the same limited-knowledge opinions about

report that the silent and highly mobile two-

the MSUPD once lamented by Hood back in the

wheel cruisers had helped lower the number of

1970s.

campus larcenies, particularly those occurring at

As with any law enforcement agency, the

“Even now, some people still refer to us as ‘security,’ even though in the mid-1980s we transitioned back to being a police department.”

– Chief Georgia Lindley, 1989 MSU alumnus

Lindley said bike patrols so quickly proved

night, by nearly 70 percent.

department’s day-in, day-out duties don’t draw

Were he alive today, Hood surely would be

the attention of a major news event, but they are

flashing his broad grin as he bragged about how

essential to the operation of a major university.

far things have improved from his days on the

Basically, those duties center on one thing: safety.

campus beat. He, Moore and Johnson helped

“Being safe means different things to different

lay the groundwork and develop a modern

people,” Lindley observed. “Here, our department

police department, one Lindley and her team of

collaborates with others in the Division of

professionals works daily to enhance and improve.

Student Affairs and around campus to provide a

Hood also would be impressed that, thanks to

number of programs and features to continually

instantly available, hand-held communications,

enhance a safe environment.”

anyone wanting to know more about the

Among them are the blue-light, quick-dial

department, its many services and other

emergency telephone stations located near most

aspects of its operation no longer must rely on

residence halls, an escort program, ongoing

magazine articles or other traditional media

crime prevention sessions presented at the

delivery systems.

halls and other locations, and a rape aggression defense program for female students and staff. Of

As Lindley pointed out, it’s as easy as http:// police.msstate.edu/ or 662-325-2121.

m ississippi state A lumnus

23

Holland family By allison matthews

Photo By Beth Wynn

Public service just a way of life for

Members of the Holland family include, seated, Sadie Holland, and standing from left, Billy Joe Holland, Gloria and Steve Holland.

“politicians,” but others would call public

S

branches of government, people may guess the

service the vocation of a Mississippi family

Hollands have a lot to talk about. In fact, they do;

with roots in agriculture, a sprinkling of musical

however, conversation seldom revolves around

talents, and an outlook on life that finds uncommon

politics, the family says.

ome may call members of the Holland family

meaning in common, everyday life.

With an unusually high number of family

With close family members serving in the three

“I think we just take it for granted,” Sadie Holland said.

“A lot of things we talk about, but there’s some

members holding public office, the family includes

things you don’t need to talk about,” said Billy Joe

Sadie Holland, Lee County Justice Court Judge; son

Holland.

Billy Joe Holland, a Lee County Supervisor; son Steve

After all, the family does have other points of

Holland, Dist.16 Representative in the Mississippi

conversation, such as the non-stop nature of the

legislature; and daughter-in-law Gloria Holland,

funeral business. When Sadie and Steve aren’t

mayor of Plantersville. Billy Joe and Steve are among

judging and legislating, they’re more than likely

six sons raised on a Lee County farm. Sadie decided

tending to the business that helps keep life in

one of her children must learn piano, and Steve

perspective. The mother and son are co-owners of

to this day continues his talent as organist at the

Holland Funeral Directors in Tupelo, with chapels

Plantersville United Methodist Church, where his

also in Okolona and Nettleton.

wife is the pianist.

24

sp ring 2013

Sadie says serving people is what life is about, from

“I treat everyone the same. I don’t care if they have patches on their clothes or if they have a tuxedo. I always try to listen to both sides with an open mind.”

– Sadie Holland, Lee County Justice Court Judge

caring for families during a time of grief, to, in her case,

holds in high esteem. He aspired to run for office while

treating everyone fairly when judicial decisions are at hand.

working as an assistant road manager for several years.

“I just love to deal with people. I love peace. I try to make people see what they’re doing,” she said. “They should love each other instead of fight,” she said.

The judge also is a former mayor of Nettleton. At the time she served in that capacity, the mayor also served as a judge. She developed a taste for the role.

“I do try to be fair, and I treat all people the same,

In the 2011 general election, he won the seat for 5th district supervisor.

“Supervisors are the legislative body of the county.

It’s a really important job,” he said.

His brother Steve has served as a member of the Mississippi House of Representatives for 30 years.

Known as an expressive man who enjoys people just as

no matter what,” she said, adding that sometimes

much as do his other family members, he’s never been

decisions don’t come easily.

afraid to do things his way.

What she loves the most about her job is being there

After high school, when his father offered him a car

for people to count on. “Sometimes people can have

as a graduation gift, Steve instead asked for his father’s

a problem, and just being able to talk with someone

shares in an area funeral home. The 1977 Mississippi

makes them feel better. People feel comfortable talking

State University graduate also has an associate’s degree

with me,” Sadie said.

in mortuary science form Northwest Mississippi

“I treat everyone the same. I don’t care if they have

Community College and a master’s degree in Southern

patches on their clothes or if they have a tuxedo,” she

studies from the University of Mississippi. After

said. “I always try to listen to both sides with an open

years of working in funeral services, Steve established

mind.”

Holland Funeral Directors in 1991.

Sadie said that there is a great commonality between

Now, the veteran legislator continues to speak his

her public service and her private business roles. That

mind in the political arena, and he still pours himself

common factor is people.

into his other job – which he says is no job at all, but

“You cry with them. It can be very stressful,” she said.

rather, “a ministry of spiritual proportions which

She explained that some funeral services are harder

requires extraordinary skills, compassion and tons of

than others, such as when the life of a young person is

emotional and physical energy.” Steve says he’s learned

cut short.

how to live by looking death in the face every day.

While Sadie, a licensed funeral director, just recently

Steve’s wife, Gloria Temple Holland, is a second-

celebrated her 80th birthday, she has three years left

generation mayor in Plantersville. Her father, Pete

before completing her term as judge.

Temple, served in the same role about four decades

Billy Joe, the oldest son in the family, said he enjoys

prior to his daughter’s election to office. Now in her

the public service aspect of getting out and meeting

second term, the 1973 MSU alumna says she is proud

people, even when it involves taking care of their

to follow in her father’s footsteps of serving a town and

complaints.

people she loves. The avid MSU sports fan is also a

“People are going to call the supervisor about anything,” he said. “We never ignore them. You’ve got to meet them and hear them out.”

Billy Joe said the role of county supervisor is one he

MSU yearbook photos of Gloria Temple and Steve Holland in the 1970s.

mental health therapist. The mayor says she was born a social worker, with an intrinsic desire to help people.

“That’s what I’m doing as mayor. I’m helping people.

I’m not a politician, but a public servant.”

m ississippi state A lumnus

25

IMPROVING THE

GAMEDAY EXPERIENCE WITH EXPANDED FACILITIES

By lEAH baRBOUR | Architectural drawings by ThreeSixty Architecture and LPK Architects

T

he football fan

people you have, the more fun gameday is and

experience is going to

the more energy that’s created in the stadium.”

be enhanced in a big way beginning in the fall of 2014, thanks to ongoing construction at

Mississippi State’s Davis Wade Stadium.

The expansion and renovation project broke

Seating More than 6,000 seats will be added, for a grand total of 61,337. Along with more seats will come more elevators, more bathrooms and more concession stands. Additionally, a

ground last August, and Mississippi State

range of premium seating will be available, and

athletic leaders are enthusiastic that additional

the finished product is going to be beautiful,

seating and new amenities will not only make

Stricklin said.

the stadium bigger, they will also make it better.

Athletic Director Scott Stricklin recently shared details about the new amenities set

Premium seating is set to increase dramatically:

“It’s going to be more of an upscale, clublike setting,” he said.

New skyboxes in the north end zone will seat between 12 and 18 people, in contrast to the 50 skyboxes already in place on the east side of

altogether, 22 new suites will be available, along

the stadium, which seat about 24. This change

with 1,100 club seats and 236 loge seats.

will better accommodate those fan groups who don’t need so many seats, Stricklin emphasized.

to make the gameday experience better

“The loge seats are a unique concept: Only

for all fans—from additional elevators,

a handful of schools have these,” Stricklin said.

bathrooms and concession stands to a new

“It’s a little more room than you would have in a

improve when the additions and renovations

video board in the north end zone, people

club seat, and it’s semi-private—you’ve got a half

are complete.

who come to Davis Wade are going to have

wall around you. You’ll be covered and out of the

a great time, he said.

elements, so you won’t have to worry about rain.

effective from a consumer standpoint than what

You’ll have your own TV screen right there in

we currently have on the east side—it’s going

more people to come and participate—literally,

your loge box and you’ll have a club behind you

to be cheaper to get into it, but it’s still going

the more the merrier,” Stricklin said. “The more

to service your food and beverage needs.

to provide you all you can expect from a club

“We’re going to provide more opportunities for

26

sp ring 2013

Also, the overall club experience will

“The club itself is going to be more cost-

With an expected completion date of fall 2014, MSU’s Davis Wade Stadium expansion includes premium seating, additional sky boxes and a north end video board. experience. We’re going to have chair-backed

much easier for people who need better

something that sounds simple, but the role of

seats; we’re going to have cupholders; and we’re

accessibility to maneuver around that part of

the stadium and making sure folks are enjoying

going to have a place where you can eat and

the stadium,” Stricklin said.

themselves on game day can’t be understated.”

Even with all these improvements, Stricklin

watch other games on TVs and have a locker.

Even as more people can enter Davis Wade

“We continue to see a lot of demand from

Stadium and get to their seats more easily, the

doesn’t expect to see ticket prices change

people who want that kind of experience on

fans who sit in the south end zone and don’t get a

dramatically; instead, prices will follow the

gameday, and we’re excited to have some other

good view of the video board there will be able to

regular supply-and-demand pattern that

options but still have the level of quality that

watch replays on a new video board in the north

reflects the rising cost of doing business.

fans expect,” he said.

end zone. That way, every person in the stadium

Amenities Another notable addition to the stadium will be six more elevators, for a total of 11, to

will have a great view of the action.

Overall, all fans’ experience will improve with the expansion of the stadium and its amenities.

“There’s not any expansion surcharge that’s going to be tacked on to ticket prices. They should cost what they would normally be if there hadn’t been an expansion,” he said.

“More restrooms and more concession

Parking

meet fans’ needs. Also, the west concourse will

stands just make it easier for folks to go get

be smoothed out and leveled.

that hotdog and get back to their seats and not

Parking continues to be a challenge, he said,

miss much of the action,” Stricklin said. “That’s

and the parking areas under the scoreboard will

“These changes are going to make it so

m ississippi state A lumnus

27

MSU Athletic Director Scott Stricklin

Stadium expansion project goes

‘green’ A

s Mississippi State football fans prepare for the enhanced gameday

experience sure to result from the stadium Architectural drawing of the stadium’s new front entrance.

expansion project, civil engineers are focused on making the new concrete strong, long-lasting and sustainable.

not be returning since the stadium will take

place to come to a game. We have so much

its place. However, Mississippi State staff will

green space around this stadium, and you

do all they can to ensure that fans have a good

don’t see that in very many places. The

as a teacher and a student, have collaborated

parking experience.

Junction and all the other adjacent areas

to develop environmentally friendly concrete

create this really fun tailgating area.”

mix designs that use a new, green combination

“As more and more people come to games, it stresses the traffic and parking

University money is not paying for

In fact, two Mississippi State alumni, as well

of cement materials. The new combination

infrastructure, but we’ve got a great group

these stadium improvements, Stricklin

takes less energy to produce, has lower

on campus that’s managing that and trying

said. Instead, additional new ticket sales

associated greenhouse gas emissions, and uses

to make it as pleasant an experience as

are funding most of the $75 million

recycled byproduct materials.

possible,” he explained. “That’s something

project. Overall, institutional support

we’ll have to continue to try to get ahead

has been one of the biggest drivers for

the Materials and Construction Industries

of—to continue to provide quality parking

these improvements, not least the direct

Chair holder in civil and environmental

for our fans.”

involvement of Mississippi State President

engineering, along with graduate student Jay

Mark E. Keenum.

Shannon and two alumni—Tim Cost, senior

Mississippi State has sold all its stadium tickets for 23 games in a row, and as season

“Dr. Keenum has been a big advocate for

Isaac Howard, MSU associate professor and

technical service engineer at Holcim Inc.

tickets continue to sell out, the athletic

what we’re trying to do in the Southeastern

and Mark Stovall, quality control manager

department maintains its waiting list for

Conference, and he wants us to have the best

at MMC Materials Inc.—have developed

people who want to purchase them. University

of the best,” Stricklin said. “He encourages us

the new concrete mixtures for use at Davis

officials hope to continue this trend with the

to do whatever we need to do from a

Wade Stadium. Development of these

addition of new seats, Stricklin said.

revenue-generation standpoint, from a

concrete mixtures has been conducted

planning standpoint, and from a

alongside other project participants such as

construction standpoint to make sure those

Harrell Contracting Group, the construction

young athletes—those young men and

company heading the expansion project.

The overall experience

“Our gameday experience, not just in

Cement is the solidifying ingredient in

Mississippi, but also in the SEC, is one of

women wearing the maroon and white—

the unique ones out there. We’re not the

have the very best and hold their heads high

concrete, and the key component in the

biggest, but the energy in our stadium

and go out and compete and win

special concrete is a new type of cement,

and the noise of our fans makes it a fun

championships.”

Howard explained.

28

sp ring 2013

EF

“Making ordinary portland cement, or OPC, requires heating limestone and other raw materials to extreme temperatures with a fossil fuel, like coal, in a kiln,” he said.

This process creates clinker, which is ground into powder—OPC. A great deal of carbon dioxide is released in this process, but the environmental impact is significantly reduced when some of the clinker is replaced with raw limestone.

OPC contains less than five percent raw limestone, but portland-limestone cement, or PLC, contains up to 15 percent limestone, and that’s one of the materials the Mississippi State team has used to create the more sustainable, environmentally-friendly concrete.

“The least sustainable part of concrete is the clinker in the portland cement, and we’re trying

Mississippi State alumni Mark Stovall, left, and Tim Cost, center, are working with associate professor Isaac Howard, Materials and Construction Industries Chair holder in civil and environmental engineering, to develop environmentally friendly concrete as part of the Davis Wade Stadium. expansion project.

to remove as much of that clinker as we can by

around 25 percent, but Mississippi State is taking

replacing it with other materials,” Howard said.

OPC replacement to a much higher level.

“We are trying to use more environmentally

traditional concrete because properly designed,

sustainable concrete works, and it works well.” _REH3818.NEF

“For the Davis Wade Stadium project, the

Howard and his colleagues look forward

sustainable approaches to provide performance

typical concrete mix design used thus far has

to inspiring upcoming generations with this

and durability that is equal to or better than

50 percent replacement, using a combination

project, one of the first of its kind, he said.

that of traditional concrete without impacting

of both fly ash and slag. It is anticipated the

construction costs.”

concrete used for the remainder of the project

great service to the construction industry by

will follow this same trend,” Tomlinson said.

providing a vehicle to study this by using it

When the stadium renovation specifications

“Mississippi State’s leaders are doing a

Not only is the new concrete cheaper

in the stadium. Once this gets implemented,

in August 2012, Mississippi State leaders

because it’s composed of fly ash and slag,

other designers and contractors can say, ‘This

recommended aggressive replacement of OPC

it’s also more environmentally friendly,

was successful in Davis Wade; why not use

with fly ash, a byproduct of coal combustion,

Tomlinson and Howard agreed.

it in house slabs or commercial buildings or

were determined, prior to the groundbreaking

and/or slag cement, a byproduct of iron

“PLC interacts with fly ash and slag cement

bridges?’” Howard said.

When people come to the stadium and

production, said Bobby Tomlinson, associate

extremely well; combining PLC with these

athletic director for facilities planning and new

byproducts is what makes concrete in the Davis

look at the north end zone, they’ll see just how

construction.

Wade Stadium project more sustainable than

successful sustainable concrete can be.

Fly ash and slag cement significantly reduce

concrete made almost any other way,” Howard

“If you have a glaring example of success, it

the cost, carbon dioxide emissions, embodied

said. “This will be, from an environmental

can translate outside of the community, and

energy and raw materials used in the project,

perspective, close to as sustainable as anything

the stadium gives us the forum to make this

he said. Since both are byproducts from other

that’s been built.”

change. If we can make this concrete more

processes, incorporating them into the concrete

“This is pushing the limits of “green”

sustainable and better performing with

mix allows them to be recycled. Historically,

concrete for large structural projects. The

portland-limestone cement, more

OPC replacement has usually been limited to

resulting product will be indistinguishable from

widespread use is not far away.”

m ississippi state A lumnus

29

MSU, UM announce

MS Excellence in Teaching Program

Ole Miss Chancellor Dan Jones and MSU President Mark E. Keenum officially announced the METP at a February press conference.

M

ississippi’s two largest

college for education majors, the program

universities have joined

seeks to increase interest in middle and high

forces to create an

school teaching as a career for top incoming

innovative program

freshmen and community college transfer

designed to attract the state’s best and brightest

students. The initial goal will be to attract

students into the field of education through a

high ability students who want to become

private gift totaling more than $12.9 million.

mathematics and English teachers and to

will help fulfill that idea. It is appealing to our

The Mississippi Excellence in Teaching

help meet the needs of new Common Core

board that the program is a joint effort between

Program, or METP, is a joint effort by the

standards introduced in Mississippi last fall.

two of Mississippi’s leading universities.”

School of Education at the University of

“For years, our foundation has been focused

Mississippi State President Mark E. Keenum

Mississippi and the College of Education at

on education as the best pathway to economic

and University of Mississippi Chancellor Dan

Mississippi State University (MSU) and is

prosperity for Mississippi,” said Foundation

Jones said their universities have accepted

funded by the Robert M. Hearin Support

Chairman Bob Hearin. “We believe this

responsibility for producing the very best

Foundation in Jackson.

program, which is focused on attracting the

teachers and will use the grant to attract

best and brightest to the profession of teaching,

the best and brightest to the profession and

Designed to be the equivalent of an honors

30

sp ring 2013

increase the prestige of teaching as a career choice.

interview process will help identify students with

“For years, our foundation has been focused on education as the best pathway to economic prosperity for Mississippi.”

“This joint effort by our two universities should

a passion and dedication for improving public

send a strong signal about the importance of this

education in the state, they added.

– Bob Hearin, Chairman, Robert M. Hearin Support Foundation

issue and our commitment to addressing it,” the

Both universities hope to recruit 20 students at each campus per year. Over a five-year period,

university leaders said.

Financial and professional incentives for

the plan is to produce up to 160 new teachers. All

students are significant, according to MSU Dean

graduates make a five-year commitment to teach in

Dr. Richard Blackbourn and UM Dean Dr. David

Mississippi after graduation.

Rock. Accepted education students will receive

During their course of study, students will gain

full scholarships and room and board for up to

exposure to faculty and fellow METP students at

four years. The program also provides money for

Ole Miss and MSU during cross campus visits each

study abroad or off-campus learning activities

semester and weeklong summer residencies, the

such as visiting high-performing schools around

deans said. In addition, during their senior year

the nation or abroad.

METP students will have the opportunity to attend

The deans said that to gain admission to the METP students must possess grades and test scores that are comparable to admission requirements for both MSU and Ole Miss’ honors colleges. An

a national or regional professional conference relevant to their teaching discipline.

The METPs first class will begin at the Oxford and Starkville campuses in fall 2013.

Additional grant awards from the Robert M. Hearin Support Foundation to Mississippi State University College of Architecture, Art & Design $900,000

James Worth Bagley College of Engineering $6,000,000

• Architecture and Building Construction Collaborative Practice Studios

• Educating the 21st Century Engineer Project will be a new required

will allow faculty to instruct students in two design studios to improve

common freshman learning experience that includes the creation of

the quality of the design and construction workforce in Mississippi.

new student learning communities that integrate in-class and co-

• Rural Sustainability Project will address economic and environmental viability issues particular to Mississippi’s rural

curricular activities.

• Cultivating a Diverse and Robust Workforce Project will increase

counties and educate residents and community leaders on how to

diversity in engineering through use of public relations and media,

improve quality of life.

events including the college’s Distinguished Lecture Series, and

• Continuation of Economic Development Outreach Projects within the CAAD Research and Outreach Centers will assist with costs such as student travel expenses and materials for models and studios.

• Intern and Scholarship Program will provide funding for students

expansion of the professional development program for K-12 teachers to encourage teacher certification.

• Strengthening and Expanding Mississippi’s Economy Project will establish a program to facilitate new business start-ups and

associated with the Gulf Coast Community Design Studio, the

commercialization, and to expand collaborative university-

Design Research and Informatics Laboratory, and the Carl Small

industry research and development to promote new products and

Town Center.

services.

m ississippi state A lumnus

31

MSU residence hall dedication honors California alumnus, wife

By Harriet Laird

M

ississippi State formally named a state-of-the-art residence hall in April in honor of Mary Lyn Moseley and Dr. Niles R. Moseley of Los Altos, Calif.

Speakers included university President Mark E. Keenum; William L. “Bill”

Kibler, vice president for student affairs; John P. Rush, vice president for development and alumni; and Student Association president Michael A. Hogan of Memphis, Tenn. The Rev. Chip Stevens of Starkville’s First Baptist Church gave the invocation.

Dr. Moseley is a Mississipi native and 1962 MSU aerospace engineering graduate. He is a retired broker with Moseley Investments and Real Estate.

Educated as a nurse, Moseley’s wife Mary Lyn, is a United Airlines flight Photo By Sid Salter

attendant who continues to serve on select international flights.

The couple has supported major MSU scholarships and projects for a number of years, the latter of which include renovation of McCain Hall and construction of Moseley Plaza, a fountain and green space area between Simrall Mary Lyn and Niles R. Moseley

32

sp ring 2013

Photo By Russ Houston

Vice President for Student Affairs Bill Kibler directly thanked the Moseleys for their interest and commitment to the university’s Promise Program, which assists students from low-income backgrounds.

Electrical Engineering Building

philanthropic support for higher

and John C. Stennis Institute of

education programs at Rice and

Government.

Stanford.

Designed by the Meridian-

$3.15 million to establish the Mary

based Luke, Peterson, & Kaye, P.A.,

Lyn and Dr. Niles R. Moseley Promise

architectural firm, the residence

Support Fund. The gift provides

hall is a 350-bed, co-residential

endowed scholarships and counseling

facility. Individual private baths and

services of the MSU Promise

controlled heating and air, wireless

Program, which was created to assist

Internet access, refrigerators,

MSU freshmen and community

microwaves, and cable television

college transfer students who enroll at

connections are among room

State from low-income backgrounds.

amenities.

A member of the Kappa Alpha

Photo By Megan Bean

Most recently, they committed

The four-story building, whose

Order fraternity while at MSU, Dr.

general contractor was Harrell

Moseley went on to earn a master’s

Contracting Group LLC of Jackson,

degree from Rice University and a

also houses offices and student

doctorate from Stanford University,

programs of the Day One

both in electrical engineering.

Leadership Community and

The Moseleys have also provided

Maroon Volunteer Center.

MSU pedestrians enjoy the Niles R. and Mary Lyn Moseley Plaza next to Simrall Electrical Engineering Building. The Moseleys have supported many MSU projects and scholarships for a number of years.

m ississippi state A lumnus

33

Campus

NEWS

13 Spring

ALUMNUS

Former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice spoke to more than 4,000 at MSU’s Humphrey Coliseum.

Photo by: Megan Bean

Condoleezza Rice:

Democracy requires responsibility

F

Rice asked students to lay the foundation now

ormer Secretary of State Condoleezza

explained that a mature and stable democracy

Rice told a Mississippi State University

cannot be the tyranny of the majority, and it

for fulfilling their responsibility to democracy

cannot be the strong exploiting the weak.

by taking actions to help those who are less

audience in March that a mature democracy requires that individual citizens understand not

“Dignity only comes when the people who

fortunate. She said helping others is important

only their rights, but also their responsibilities.

would govern you have to ask for your consent,”

for keeping perspective and avoiding attitudes

Rice said.

of entitlement.

Rice spoke about current world events, saying

Just over 4,000 students and guests attended

the United States and the world are facing some

The United States is a great paradox, she

very difficult times, yet with great opportunities

said. “We are very individualistic, but we’re the

Rice’s address. The nation’s 66th secretary of

that suggest optimism.

most philanthropic.”

state was a guest on campus participating in

“Whenever I visit a place like this, a great

Rice said a great American concept is the idea

the university’s Global Lecture Series. The

university where our best and brightest are

that, “It doesn’t matter where you come from; it

public address culminated a visit that also

studying, I am indeed optimistic,” she said.

matters where you’re going.” The idea that every

included a question-and-answer session with

life is capable of achieving has brought many

first-generation college students, student

messy,” Rice said. “What you’re seeing in the

immigrants to the U.S. over the generations, but

veterans and honors students, as well as a

Middle East today is what happens when people

she said those who live as Americans need to

reception with alumni.

seize their rights.”

continue to believe they are capable of breaking

“People are seizing their rights, and it’s

Rice said democracy takes time, and freedom and democracy are not the same thing. She 34

sp ring 2013

Rice served as secretary of state from January

out of life circumstances, such as class, to

2005-2009. She was the second woman and first

achieve their own individual goals.

African-American woman to hold the post.

She also served as President George W. Bush’s national security advisor from January 20012005, the first woman to hold the position.

MSU President Mark E. Keenum said Rice’s

University unveils new STAR Scholarship

levels of our government during a tumultuous

M

an unprecedented new MSU scholarship

Scholarships, we expect that each of

and dangerous period in world events, and

program that will partner with the Mississippi

these students will already be eligible for

she was a forceful proponent for the spread of

Economic Council’s highly successful

scholarships at Mississippi State ranging from

democracy and the establishment of freedoms

Student-Teacher Achievement Recognition or

$12,000 to $34,000, in addition to the $6,000

around the world,” Keenum said.

STAR program.

experiences have given her a unique perspective on the global challenges of the 21st century.

“Dr. Condoleezza Rice served at the highest

ississippi State University

“Based on the ACT score and grade point

President Mark E.

average criteria for the STAR designation,

Keenum announced

and the criteria for our Freshman Academic

STAR Student Scholarship,” he said.

Rice currently is the Denning Professor

The announcement

in Global Business and the Economy at the

came during the MEC’s

Graduate School of Business at Stanford

Capital Day event in early

Mississippi Economic Council

University; the Thomas and Barbara

January in Jackson.

and its M. B. Swayze Foundation

Stephenson Senior Fellow on Public Policy

“Today I am very

have brought well deserved

at the university’s Hoover Institution and a

pleased to announce

professor of political science. She is also a

that Mississippi State University will offer

achievement to students and their teachers.

founding partner of RiceHadleyGates LLC.

a scholarship worth $6,000 to every STAR

More than 300 public, private and parochial

student in Mississippi,” Keenum said. “The

schools in Mississippi participate in the

books, including two bestsellers, “No Higher

Mississippi State STAR Student Scholarship

program, and typically one student from each

Honor: A Memoir of My Years in Washington”

will be awarded in addition to any other

high school is honored each year, along with a

(2011) and “Extraordinary, Ordinary People:

scholarship offers these outstanding students

teacher chosen by the student.

A Memoir of Family” (2010). Others include

have from our university.”

She has authored and co-authored numerous

“Germany Unified and Europe Transformed: A

The scholarship targets the state’s most

For the past 46 years, the

recognition for academic

“This provides another important recognition of these students’ superior

Study in Statecraft” (1995) with Philip Zelikow;

academically talented students. STAR

achievement,” said Blake Wilson, president

“The Gorbachev Era” (1986) with Alexander

students have a minimum ACT of 25 and

and chief executive officer of the Mississippi

Dallin; and “Uncertain Allegiance: The Soviet

minimum high school grade average of 93.

Economic Council. “Mississippi State today

Union and the Czechoslovak Army” (1984).

With Keenum’s announcement, MSU

has helped send a signal to these students

Born in Birmingham, Ala., Rice earned

becomes the state’s first university to

we want them to continue to achieve

her bachelor’s degree in political science, cum

create a scholarship for all Mississippi

without leaving our borders.”

laude and Phi Beta Kappa, from the University

STAR Students. “We do so in the hope

of Denver; her master’s from the University of

that it will encourage more of our best and

been the voice of Mississippi business since

Notre Dame and her Ph.D. from the Graduate

brightest to attend college here in their

1949. MEC deals with broad issues that relate

School of International Studies at the University

home state, which increases the odds that

to businesses through advocacy, research,

of Denver.

they will also make their careers here in

resources and leadership. MEC has more

Mississippi,” said Keenum.

than 8,000 members from more than 1,100

MSU’s Global Lecture Series previously has hosted Gen. Colin Powell and Nobel Peace Prize

Keenum stressed that the new scholarship

The Mississippi Economic Council has

member firms in 2,400 locations throughout

recipient F.W. de Klerk, the seventh and last

would augment existing scholarship

Mississippi. For more information, go to

State President of apartheid-era South Africa. •

opportunities for the state’s top students.

www.mec.ms. • m is s is s ip p i stat e A lumnus

35

Campus

NEWS

13 Spring

ALUMNUS

MSU partners to host American Legion Boys State

M

ississippi State University has been selected as the 2013-15 host campus for Mississippi’s

American Legion Boys State program—the nation’s premier program for teaching how government works, developing leadership skills, and nurturing an appreciation for the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.

Boys State Director Neal Boone, MSU President Mark E. Keenum and Boys State Chairman Donald Cabrol of the American Legion signed the three-year agreement in January. Some 350 rising high school seniors from across the state will gather on MSU’s campus this summer to learn about state and local government and the electoral process.

“We see this new partnership with the

Boys State Director Neal Boone, left, MSU President Mark E. Keenum, center, and Boys State Chairman Donald Cabrol of the American Legion signed the three-year agreement in January. Photo by: Beth Wynn

Boys State program and the American Legion

president for campus operations, for her role

State director, said that the organization’s

in Mississippi as a tremendous honor for

“as a champion for this project.”

agreement with MSU represented an “opportunity to take the Boys State program

our university,” said Keenum. “The young

After the signing, the Boys State and

people participating in this program truly

American Legion leadership delegation

represent the best of the best in terms of

toured the MSU campus and viewed the

those who are likely to choose careers in

facilities that would be utilized by the week-

of leaders and, with Mississippi State,

public service or other significant leadership

long program.

we believe we can significantly grow the

to the next level.”

“Boys State reaches our next generation

program to reach more young people. The

roles. This partnership gives Mississippi State

“It was obvious from their proposal that

an opportunity to engage these quality young

Mississippi State really wanted to be more

resources offered by the university will

people and to showcase the magnificent

than a host for Boys State—they wanted to

help us in recruitment and, in turn, we

opportunities for further leadership

be a partner and that’s what we were looking

think Boys State will help Mississippi State

development that MSU offers.”

for,” said Cabrol, representing the veteran’s

influence young leaders who are making

Keenum said the university community

organization that has long been the national

decisions about where they will further their

and its resources are committed to making

sponsor of the Boys State program. “I’m very

educations,” said Boone.

the Boys State experience at MSU “second to

impressed with what we’ve seen and with the

none.” The MSU president thanked former

commitment Mississippi State has made.”

Lt. Gov. Amy Tuck, currently MSU’s vice

36

s p ring 2013

Boone, recently named Mississippi’s Boys

For more information on the Mississippi Boys State program, visit www.msboysstate.com. •

Alum, doctor named new MSU health services director D r. Clifton W. Story, a staff

Broyles, assistant vice president

missionary physician in Colombia

physician at Mississippi

for student affairs.

and Costa Rica.

State’s Longest Student Health

Story, who holds American

Story said he plans to continue

Center, is being promoted to

Board of Family Physicians

initiatives begun under Collins’

executive director of University

certification, returned to campus

leadership, including a strong

Health Services.

as a physician in 2008. An MSU

commitment to fostering a

alumnus, he is a 1991 general

culture of health and wellness on

May, succeeding Dr. Bob Collins

science graduate who went on to

campus, as well as continually

upon his retirement. Collins

earn a doctor of medicine degree

educating students, faculty

joined the MSU medical center

from the University of Mississippi

and staff members about

staff in 1977 and became its leader

Medical Center in 1995.

preventative measures to

He will assume his new duties in

in 1988.

“Dr. Story has worked closely with Dr. Collins through the spring semester to ensure that we

He additionally completed a family practice internship and residency at UMMC. Prior to joining the MSU staff,

preserving good health.

Story practices what he preaches, having lost more than 60 pounds since 2010 by

have a smooth transition in the

Story practiced in West Point,

incorporating a rigorous exercise

leadership of this vitally important

Madison and Oneida, Tenn.

routine into his lifestyle. He now

service to our campus,” said Bill

He also spent two years as a

regularly competes in triathlons. •

Dr. Story Photo by: Russ Houston

m is s is s ip p i stat e A lumnus

37

Campus

NEWS

13 Spring

ALUMNUS

STUDENTS FOR A SUSTAINABLE CAMPUS

PROMOTE ENERGY EFFICIENCY “Twenty percent of funding will

During the 2013 spring semester,

go toward student interns, 30 percent

Masters and Crawford said the group

will go toward the Green Power

is planning a series of fundraising

the Green Fund, a student-run

Switch, and 50 percent will go toward

activities, including collecting

reserve that would purchase

sustainability projects on campus,”

donations at the MSU Barnes &

renewable energy and fund energy-

said SSC co-president Brittany L.

Noble bookstore; tabling on the

efficient campus projects.

Walters of Crawford.

Drill Field to advocate SSC and

Mississippi State student group continues its efforts to implement

Since fall 2010, members of

Walters, a senior psychology

sustainability each Thursday from

Students for a Sustainable Campus

major, said the organization works

12-2 p.m.; holding specialized events

have worked to raise environmental

closely with the MSU Office of

for Earth Day on April 22; and

awareness among university faculty,

Sustainability to sponsor “green”

attending the Mississippi Alumni

staff and students.

campus programs and projects.

and Students for Sustainability

“Our goal for this semester is to

From directly soliciting donations

conference this month to learn more

raise as much money as possible

to organizing benefit concerts, the

about current sustainability issues,

for the Green Fund,” said SSC co-

group has, to date, raised more

as well as raising environmental

president and senior sociology major

than $4,200 dollars for MSU’s

awareness and funds for

Katie Masters of Collierville, Tenn.

Green Fund initiative.

campus sustainability projects.

“Green energy and the environmental crisis are something we have to face globally. Groups like SSC are the movements that potentially have the fire to get people to notice these things,”

MSU 2012-13 Student Association President Shelby Balius "opts in" as a supporter of the Green Fund, an initiative of Students for a Sustainable Campus.

Photo by: Megan Bean

38

s p ri ng 2013

said SSC outreach leader Grant Beatty, a sophomore philosophy major of Starkville.

For more information on SSC, visit www.ssc.org.msstate.edu. •

Three faculty earn major distinctions as

AAAS FELLOWS T

hree Mississippi State

Advanced Vehicular Systems

2006 by the American Society for

faculty members are

Chair, and serves as chief technical

Testing and Materials.

Novotny has headed the physics

being honored as new Fellows of

officer for CAVS. He additionally

the American Association for the

serves as an adjunct professor in

and astronomy department since

Advancement of Science.

the agricultural and biological

2001. From 2002-05, he also

engineering department. Since

directed the High Performance

mechanical and computational

joining the Bagley College of

Computing Collaboratory Center

engineering, James C. Newman Jr. of

Engineering faculty in 2002,

for Computational Sciences. Before

aerospace engineering and Mark A.

Horstemeyer has been named a

coming to MSU, he was a scholar and

Novotny of physics and astronomy

Giles Distinguished Professor, the

scientist at Florida State University’s

are receiving the high honor awarded

highest academic rank on campus,

Supercomputer Computations

by their peers in recognition of

and been honored with the Ralph E.

Research Institute. A Fellow of

scientifically or socially distinguished

Powe Research Award.

the American Physical Society,

Mark F. Horstemeyer of

Newman is both a Giles

efforts to advance science

Novotny also recently was named

Distinguished Professor and holder

a Dynasty Foundation Visiting

Based in Washington, D.C.,

of the Bagley College’s Richard

Scientist. Last year, he was among 40

the AAAS is the world’s largest

H. Johnson Chair of Aerospace

foreign physicists, mathematicians

general scientific society. The

Engineering. Principal investigator

and biologists receiving full travel

organization publishes the

of research grants totaling more

grants to speak at academic

prestigious journal Science, as well as

than $3.6 million, he is a specialist

institutions in Russia.

Science Translational Medicine and

in fatigue and fracture mechanics

Science Signaling.

of materials and aircraft structures.

includes 261 affiliated societies

He led the development of a fracture

and academies of science, serving

computation solid mechanics

standard test method for thin-

10 million individuals around

program, holds the Center for

sheet materials that was adopted in

the world. •

or its applications.

Horstemeyer chairs the

Founded in 1848, the AAAS

From left, Horstemeyer, Newman and Novotny m is s is s ip p i stat e A lumnus

39

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NEWS

13 Spring

ALUMNUS

Keenum elected to SACS leadership role T he president of Mississippi

SACS is the recognized regional

three-year term on the SACS board

accrediting body in the 11 U.S.

executive council member of the

of trustees. He will serve through

Southern states (Alabama, Florida,

top accreditation body for regional

2013 on the 77-member body

Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana,

institutions of higher learning.

representing some 800 institutional

Mississippi, North Carolina, South

members. Keenum is in his fourth

Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and

elected to a term on the Southern

year as the 19th chief executive

Virginia) and in Latin America for

Association of Colleges and

of MSU, from which he holds

those institutions of higher education

Schools’ Commission on Colleges’

bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral

that award associate, baccalaureate,

Executive Council. The 13-member

degrees in agricultural economics.

master’s or doctoral degrees.

State is a newly elected

Mark E. Keenum recently was

Keenum

In 2011, Keenum was elected to a

council is the executive arm of the

As a commission trustee, Keenum

Mississippi State University

board of trustees with primary

helps determine policy, and reviews

is accredited by the Southern

responsibility for interpreting

and make decisions regarding the

Association of Colleges and Schools

commission policy and procedure.

accreditation of member institutions

Commission on Colleges to award

It also functions on behalf of the

awarding associate, baccalaureate,

baccalaureate, masters, specialist and

commission between sessions.

master’s or doctoral degrees.

doctorate degrees. •

Dickerson returns to campus as new MSU registrar A former student recruiting

of Mississippi College and Hinds

leader at Mississippi State has

Community College.

returned to his alma mater as the

for enrollment services. Prior to that,

Gilbert, provost and executive

vice president of Copiah-Lincoln

he had been Mississippi College’s

vice president. In making the

Community College’s Simpson

associate dean of students.

announcement, Gilbert specifically

County Center, began his new MSU

At MSU, he earned successive

cited Dickerson’s extensive

promotions—including the

experience in the admissions, student

directorship of enrollment services—

orientation, scholarships and student

Hill High School, Dickerson holds

until achieving the office of senior

recruitment areas.

master’s and doctoral degrees from

associate director for admissions and

MSU in counselor education and

scholarships, the post he held before

who retired earlier this year after

community college leadership,

joining the administration at the

working in the registrar’s office since

respectively. He also is a graduate

South Mississippi community college.

1995 and leading it since 2002. •

duties in January.

A 1986 graduate of Jackson’s Jim

s p ri ng 2013

former employee in the Division of Student Affairs,” said Jerry

John R. Dickerson, previously

40

that he is an active alumnus and

campus in 1997 as associate director

university’s new registrar.

Dickerson

Dickerson came to the Starkville

“He has deep roots at MSU, in

Dickerson succeeds Butch Stokes,

Dunlap named first MSU

ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE A

fter a career spanning more

of experience will really make a

than three decades as an

difference in a student’s life.”

While at MSU, Dunlap will utilize the department’s studio spaces to work with ceramics, sculpture and

artist, arts commentator and

Born in nearby Webster County

educator, Mississippi native

in 1944, Dunlap is a 1966 Mississippi

printmaking and provide art majors

William “Bill” Dunlap now will help

College art graduate who went on

the opportunity to work alongside

set the bar for students as Mississippi

to receive a 1969 master’s degree at

and experience his creative process.

State’s first artist-in-residence.

the University of Mississippi. He

Over his long career, Dunlap has

taught at Hinds Community College

received awards and fellowships

recently established the artist-in-

before moving to Appalachian State

from the Rockefeller Foundation

residence program to enhance its

University in North Carolina from

and the Lila Wallace/Reader’s Digest

mission of preparing students for

1970-79 and Memphis State from

Foundation for study and travel in

careers or advanced studies. The

1979-80.

Southeast Asia. Other recognitions

The university’s art department

program emphasizes studio practice,

His paintings, sculpture and

have come from the Warhol

liberal arts, visual language and

constructions are included in

Foundation, Virginia Commission for

exposure to regional, national and

prestigious national collections,

the Arts and Mississippi Institute of

international artists.

including the Metropolitan Museum

Arts and Letters.

“We have established the program

of Art, Corcoran Gallery of Art,

Dunlap in his Mississippi studio.

Photo by: Megan Bean

He has been a selection for

to allow the artist-in-residence

Lauren Rogers Museum, Mobil

the Southeastern Center for

to work on special projects or

Corp., Riggs Bank, IBM Corporation,

Contemporary Art/RJR Nabisco

techniques alongside our students,

Federal Express, The Equitable

Visual Artists Award and Mississippi

which will be an invaluable benefit

Collection, Rogers Ogden Collection,

Governor’s Award for Excellence in

to everyone,” said department head

and the U. S. State Department and its

the Arts. •

Lydia Thompson. “Having this kind

embassies worldwide. m is s is s ip p i stat e A lumnus

41

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ALUMNUS

Federal Reserve president leads forum J

ames Bullard, president and chief executive

and its branches in Little Rock, Ark., Louisville, Ky.,

officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis,

and Memphis, Tenn.

was a special guest in February at a campus forum organized by Mississippi State’s College of Business.

Bullard spoke at a luncheon at the Hunter

Bullard

An economist and monetary policy scholar, Bullard joined the Federal Reserve Bank in 1990.

He is an honorary professor of economics at

Henry Center given by the college’s finance

Washington University in St. Louis, where he also

and economics department.

serves on the advisory councils of the economics

An Indiana University doctoral graduate in

department and of the Olin Business School’s

economics, Bullard shared his insights on the U.S.

Center for Finance and Accounting Research. He

economic climate and current monetary policies.

also is a member of the University of Missouri-St.

A member of the Federal Open Market

Louis Chancellor’s Council and the boards of the St.

Committee, he directs activities of the Federal

Louis Regional Chamber and Growth Association

Reserve’s Eighth District head office in St. Louis,

and the United Way of Greater St. Louis.

Administrator, alumnus named chief diversity officer Mississippi State administrator Tommy J. Stevenson is taking on an expanded role as the university’s new chief diversity officer and director of the recently renamed Office of Institutional Diversity and Inclusion.

The new administrative unit previously was called the Office of Diversity and Equity Programs.

As a member of the MSU President’s Cabinet,

Stevenson

42

sp ri ng 2013

his numerous responsibilities associated with opportunity and inclusion on campus.

MSU President Mark E. Keenum said, “As the most diverse of the nation’s original land-grant universities and the most diverse institution in the Southeastern Conference, meaningful diversity and inclusion are bedrock values of Mississippi State University. We

Stevenson will advise the university’s president and

believe a more comprehensive approach to embracing

provost/executive vice president on diversity issues, one of

those longtime values is needed, and we believe this

MSU graduate programs ranked by U.S. News & World Report M

“As chief academic officer, I

ississippi State is listed

courses have gone above and

in the 2013 U.S. News

beyond to meet student learning

am proud of the rankings of the

& World Report rankings on the

needs with new technologies

various MSU programs by U.S.

nation’s colleges, getting especially

and tools to reach engineering

News & World Report. Ranking

high marks for online engineering

students across the nation. We can’t

12th in two online graduate

and business graduate programs.

thank them enough.”

programs in engineering is quite

The College of Business also

The university’s James Worth

an accomplishment and a tribute

Bagley College of Engineering ranks

earned a No. 38 rank for Best Online

to our fine distance programs. I am

No. 12 among the 2013 Best Online

Graduate Business Programs.

likewise very proud of the other ranked programs in engineering,

Graduate Engineering Programs

Additionally, MSU’s College

and also ranks No. 12 among the

of Veterinary Medicine is listed

business and veterinary medicine,”

Best Online Graduate Computer

No. 23 among the top ranks

said Jerry Gilbert, provost and

Information Technology Programs,

for graduate schools.

executive vice president.

Other MSU rankings

which includes Bagley programs in

Established in 1933, U.S. News

computer science and electrical and

include the Bagley College of

& World Report releases annual

computer engineering.

Engineering’s placement among

rankings of universities and

best graduate school rankings

individual academic programs

is a great achievement for our

with the biological/agricultural

from across the country. To

engineering distance learning

engineering program at No. 19; the

access the complete rankings

program,” said Sarah Rajala, dean

industrial engineering program

or find more information about

of the college. “Our faculty who

at No. 48; and the aerospace

U.S. News & World Report, visit

teach these distance learning

engineering program at No. 49.

www.usnews.com. •

“The newly released ranking

new organizational structure will facilitate the appropriate results.”

Among Stevenson’s other duties are the

of a university-wide diversity strategic plan.

Stevenson holds a doctoral degree in higher education administration from Bowling Green

James Worth Bagley College of Engineering.

Previously, he was an admissions counselor in the Division of Student Affairs.

recruitment and retention of faculty, staff

(Ohio) State University. He received a bachelor’s

In 2010, Stevenson was honored as a

and students from diverse and under-

degree in industrial technology and a master’s in

“National Role Model” by Minority Access

represented population groups, enhancement

education administration, both from MSU.

Inc., a non-profit educational organization that

of partnerships with communities to promote

A Brooksville native, Stevenson served

supports individuals, academic institutions, and

diversity as an essential element of the university

for more than two years as assistant dean for

federal, state and local government agencies and

mission, and development and implementation

diversity and student development in the

corporations. •

m is s is s ip p i stat e A lumnus

43

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NEWS

13 Spring

ALUMNUS

Gov. Phil Bryant rings a cowbell during Mississippi State University fall commencement ceremonies after MSU President Mark E. Keenum, right, presented him with the bell and a certificate declaring the governor an "Honorary Bulldog." The university conferred degrees upon nearly 1,400 graduates.

Photo by: Megan Bean

BRYANT touts education plan, asks GRADS to help A

The governor said open enrollment, merit

ddressing nearly 1,400 Mississippi

own times of trial, the governor said his

State graduates at the 2012 fall

parents' generation often talked in terms

pay for teachers, and honoring craftsmen

commencement ceremonies, Gov. Phil

of "before the flood" and "after the flood."

who want to become educated in a trade,

Bryant conveyed the state's pride in its

The Moorhead native described how

such as plumbing or electrical technology,

graduates.

Mississippians had worked through the

are all important factors in moving

Great Depression and the Civil Rights

Mississippi's schools forward.

The governor said one day after the tragic school shooting in Connecticut that the

movement, when a "shadow" was cast across

whole country is experiencing a time of

the state.

national sorrow, and he offered a prayer

He said through hard work and

Bryant encouraged the audience to seek wisdom and share their talents with others.

"We need your talent and your leadership

for the pain and anguish of the parents and

determination, Mississippians had been

to help us continue pushing forward,"

community affected. However, he went on

successful to rise above past hardships.

Bryant said.

to tell graduates that victories also must

Touting his recently announced education

MSU President Mark E. Keenum

be celebrated, and their achievements

plan, the governor said that as graduates of

presented Bryant with a framed certificate

should not be diminished during their

MSU, which holds the highest designation

declaring him an "Honorary Bulldog," along

time of recognition for such an important

from the Carnegie Foundation that any

with a cowbell.

achievement.

research university can hold, the new

"We must remember tragedies and celebrate victories," Bryant said. "We all come together in difficult times."

Referring to his inaugural theme, "Rise Together," and reflecting on Mississippi's 44

s p ri ng 2013

Keenum, upon congratulating the newest

alumni clearly understand the importance of

graduating class, said the new graduates, like

educational achievement.

him, are among more than 125,000 living

Improvements to the state's education system, "will bring a melody to children's lives—a melody of success," he said.

alumni whose lives have been transformed at MSU. •

Director says parks embody American values When so many issues seem to

and a luncheon with President

“These are our American

divide Americans, National Park

Mark E. Keenum and faculty and

cathedrals. We as a nation have a

Service Director Jon Jarvis said

administrators from the College of

strong bond with the land,” Jarvis

there are 398 national treasures

Forest Resources. Jarvis spoke with

said. He said these sites have

which represent the values that

students in the colleges of Forest

been set aside for the enjoyment

bind the nation together.

Resources and Arts and Sciences,

of all Americans.

Freedom, equality, pioneering

answering questions about his

For more information about

spirit, ingenuity, hard work and

career, which spans nearly four

the National Park Service,

leadership were among those

decades. He also gave advice to

visit www.nps.gov. •

Jarvis described as core American

students seeking to achieve their

values that are embodied by parks

own career goals after graduation.

Jarvis concluded his visit with

and historical sites throughout the nation. Sites included in the

a public address titled, “National

National Park Service system have

Parks & American Values: A

been set aside by Congress or by

Field Guide.”

For many Americans who think

presidential proclamations.

The director visited Mississippi

National Park Service Director Jon Jarvis spoke to MSU students answering questions about his career and giving advice on achieving career goals.

Photo by: Megan Bean

of the National Parks, natural

State in January, and enjoyed a full

beauty comes to mind, along with

day’s schedule which included a

images of Yosemite, Yellowstone

visit to the Natchez Trace Parkway

and other iconic sites.

MSU implements three-year degree programs

C

ollege students wanting a faster

will receive in pursuit of their degrees. I am

evolve, innovative nontraditional strategies

alternative to traditional four-year

pleased that Mississippi State University is

are necessary to empower students and deliver

undergraduate programs will have the option

taking a leadership role in offering this new

opportunity. This program helps Mississippi

of earning a bachelor's degree from MSU in

opportunity in our state."

State be on the vanguard of that movement. "

just three years beginning in fall 2013.

Jerry Gilbert, MSU provost and executive

Among the 23 programs being offered,

vice president, said the university is

three are in the College of Agriculture and Life

said the new programs may especially appeal

developing the special programs to allow

Sciences; three within the College of Arts and

to students who want to begin graduate school

highly motivated and hard-working students

Sciences; three within the College of Business;

or enter the workforce sooner. Saving a full

the opportunity to complete a degree a full

and 14 within the College of Education.

academic year in undergraduate school also

year ahead of traditional course curriculums

will offer the financial advantages of saved

by attending two summer semesters in

year degree program advisors for help in

living expenses and some tuition savings.

addition to six fall and spring semesters,

planning high school courses that will

depending on the program.

complement their intended college major.

Administrators announcing the offerings

MSU President Mark E. Keenum said, "This

High school students may contact three-

For more information about MSU's

three-year program offers our students the

"We believe there is a strong demand for

prospect of cost savings without sacrificing

this type of program," said Gilbert. "As the

three-year degree programs, visit www.

the world-class level of instruction they

process of higher education continues to

threeyeardegree.msstate.edu. • m is s is s ip p i stat e A lumnus

45

Alumni

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13 spriNG

ALUMNUS

Alumni award EVERETT top honor

George T. “Tommy” Everett is presented the MSU National Alumnus of the Year award by Jimmy Abraham, associate vice president for development and alumni and MSU Alumni Association executive director.

G

eorge T. “Tommy” Everett III earned the distinction of National Alumnus of the Year at

“During my first year, I remember Coach McKeen stopping me during sprints and yelling that I was one

the Mississippi State University Alumni Association’s

of the slowest men he had ever seen,” said Everett. “I’m

2013 awards banquet. A 1950 graduate, Everett has spent

not really sure why I stuck around for a second year. It

more than 60 years serving his alma mater as a local

took a little while to get through to me that my football

and national level

career was over before it really got

volunteer.

started!”

Everett is a native of Magee and came to MSU after serving with the U.S. Navy in World War II. Part of a family of Bulldogs, he followed in the

“His love for MSU is unquestioned, and he has dedicated much of his life to serving his university.“ Jimmy Abraham

MSU Alumni Association Executive Director

studies and earned a business degree. After graduation, he returned home and again followed in his father’s footsteps by joining the family business,

and two uncles, who also attended MSU. While a student,

married his high school sweetheart after college, the late

Everett played for two years on the Bulldog football team

Willie Grace Horn.

under coaches Allyn McKeen and A.W. “Slick” Morton.

s p ring 2013

Everett went on to excel in his

Magee Auto Supply. He also

footsteps of his father

46

Despite a short athletic career,

Everett’s service with his alma mater began after a

visit with his friend and fellow Bulldog, D.W. Skelton.

Skelton was retiring from his position with the Alumni Association, and suggested Everett run for the office of Southern District committeeman. He did, and thus began a long career with the Alumni Association.

As a volunteer, Everett has held a number of roles on both the local and national level. Most importantly, he spent more than 20 years as treasurer for the national board of directors and served as the 1973 national president.

Everett has many fond memories of his volunteer service with MSU, including presenting Gov. Bill Waller with a live bulldog and honoring Jack Crystal for 25 years of service as a broadcaster. However, it is the family ties that Everett holds closest to his heart.

“My wife and I enjoyed going to all of the many alumni functions and ball games through the years,” he stated.

“She was my partner, involved in all the success I’ve had in life, and now I see that reflected in the lives of my children and grandchildren.”

Everett and Willie Grace had two children who

C O LL E G E S N A M E

ALUMNI OF THE YEAR Each year, outstanding alumni are recognized for their personal, professional and

attended MSU, Susan Everett Yates, a 1979 alumna, and

community accomplishments. These individuals truly represent the mission and values

John Thomas Everett, a 1984 alumnus. Both Susan and

of Mississippi State around the state, nation and world. The 2013 College Alumni of the

John’s sons joined the Bulldog family. Spencer Yates

Year were named in February. The recipients include (front row, left to right): Houston,

graduated in 2011, and Houston Everett is currently a

Texas, resident Thomas B. “Tommy” Nusz, was honored by the James Worth Bagley

junior at MSU.

College of Engineering. Nunz is a 1982 petroleum engineering graduate; MSU-Meridian

Because of his love and devotion to MSU, Everett was

selected Kim S. Benton of Hickory as their honoree. Benton, an elementary education

named the top alumnus of 2013. Surrounded by family

graduate, earned a bachelor’s in 1982, a master’s in 1986 and a doctoral degree in

and friends, he accepted the award on Feb. 1 at the annual

1991. George T. “Tommy” Everett III is MSU’s National Alumnus of the Year (see

alumni banquet.

opposite page); Kerrville, Texas, resident Donald R. Ford, was honored by the College

“I’ve had a lot of wonderful things happen in my

of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Ford earned a degree in general agriculture on 1960;

lifetime, but being selected for this honor is one of the

The College of Arts and Sciences honored 1949 petroleum geology graduate John D.

best,” Everett explained. “During my involvement at State,

“Jack” Sistrunk Jr. He currently resides in Madison. (Back row, left to right): Paul B.

I’ve met so many dedicated people who have done more

Murphy Jr., of Houston, Texas, is alumnus of the year for the College of Business. A 1981

than I. To be included with these great alumni before me

graduate, he earned a degree in banking and finance; Joe A. Haynes, of Jackson, earned

and after me is very humbling.”

a doctoral degree in educational leadership from MSU in 1983. He is the alumnus of the

“This is such a well-deserved honor for Tommy. His

year for the College of Education; William L. “Bill” Polk III, of Atlanta, Ga., was named

love for MSU is unquestioned, and he has dedicated

for the College of Architecture, Art and Design. Polk is a 1984 architecture graduate; The

much of his life to serving his university. We are so proud

College of Forest Resources named Charles David Barge, of Macon, as alumnus of the

to recognize Tommy as our National Alumnus of the

year. He earned a bachelor’s in forestry and a master’s in forestry business in 1976 and

Year,” stated Jimmy Abraham, associate vice president for

1977, respectively; Dr. Rodney A. Christmas, a 1993 graduate, has been selected as the

development and alumni and executive director of the

honoree by the College of Veterinary Medicine. He is a resident of St. Joseph, Mo.

MSU Alumni Association. • m is s is s ip p i stat e A lumnus

47

Alumni

NEWS

13 spriNG

ALUMNUS

Sanders honored as Outstanding Young Alumnus T he Alumni Association recently honored

in Washington, D.C., where he is involved with

Edward A. Sanders of Arlington, Va., as the

the local chapter. Currently president, he has also

2012 Outstanding Young Alumnus.

held the role of chapter vice president and served

A native of Leland, Sanders earned a bachelor’s

on the national board of directors. He has been

degree in political science from MSU in 2006. While

instrumental in growing the D.C. chapter and

a student, he was active with a number of campus

raising money for student scholarships.

“Edward has been a great asset to our chapter in

organizations including the Alumni Delegates,

Camille Scales Young, right, MSU Alumni Association national president, presents Sanders, left, the 2012 Outstanding Young Alumnus award.

Student Association, Stennis-Montgomery

the nation’s capital,” said Jimmy Abraham, associate

Association and The Reflector. He also interned

vice president of development and alumni and

as a student with the U.S. House of Representatives

executive director of the MSU Alumni Association.

Committee on Veteran’s Affairs and Sen. Thad

“He is very deserving of this prestigious honor.”

In addition to his volunteer service with MSU,

Cochran’s office.

In August 2006, Sanders received a presidential

Sanders is a member of the Young Professionals

appointment to serve on the staff of President

in Foreign Policy and an officer for the Mississippi

George W. Bush in the White House, and later

Society of Washington, D.C. He is also an

at the State Department in the legislative affairs

independent scholar and researcher on life in the

bureau. He now serves as a political consultant

Antebellum South. •

Alumni Association breaks all-time membership record The MSU Alumni Association recently announced that it surpassed its annual membership goal for a fifth consecutive

vice president for development and alumni and

to 92 groups in the United States, with an

executive director of the Alumni Association.

additional chapter in South Korea. In 2013, they

As the Alumni Association has seen a rise in

chartered two additional chapters in Orlando, Fla., and St. Louis, Mo.

year. Breaking the all-time record for

membership, the university has also celebrated

active alumni, 2012 welcomed 43,568

an increase in private support in recent years.

members into the association.

Mississippi State has raised more than $60

financial support to MSU, but they also

million in private gifts for four consecutive

volunteer their time in our many alumni

is based on financial contributions to the

years. In addition, the alumni giving rate

chapters,” Abraham said. “Our more than

university. A gift or pledge in any amount

experienced an upward trend and rose from

125,000 alumni worldwide are literally

through the MSU Foundation or Bulldog Club

14.7 percent in fiscal year 2009 to 18.1 percent

Mississippi State’s voice around the world.”

qualifies a person for active membership.

in 2012.

Membership in the MSU Alumni Association

“Our alumni and friends are very loyal and

The MSU Alumni Association also grew its

“Active members not only provide critical

Membership lasts for one year and may be renewed annually with additional financial

passionate, and year after year they continue to

total number of chartered chapters in 2012.

support. For more information on the MSU

support the university, its students, faculty, staff

In February, they welcomed a new chapter in

Alumni Association, visit the website at www.

and programs,” said Jimmy Abraham, associate

Tuscaloosa, Ala., bringing the total number

alumni.msstate.edu or call 662-325-7000. •

48

sp ri ng 2013

Chapter volunteers honored with Distinguished Service Award T

hree alumni were honored

was honored for her many years

in February as the 2012

of service in the George-Greene

Distinguished Service Award

Chapter. Now retired from

winners at the awards banquet.

teaching, she graduated from

Chosen for their years of service

MSU in 1978 with a degree in

and dedication to the MSU

elementary education. Smith

Alumni Association, these

is currently chapter president,

individuals represent the most

and has also served as vice

excellent alumni volunteers.

president, secretary and recruiting coordinator.

Michael W. “Mike” Criswell, a

“These three outstanding alumni

1980 business graduate, of Atlanta, Ga., Chapter is being honored

have done so much for Mississippi

for over a decade of service.

State through the years,” stated

Criswell served two terms on the Alumni Association national

2012 Distinguished Service Award recipients (left to right): Michael W. “Mike” Criswell, Brenda M. Smith and Robert R. “Rob” Hamlin.

Jimmy Abraham, associate vice president for development and

board of directors, and has held

Chapter volunteer Robert R.

Hoover City Schools. He holds two

alumni and executive director of

roles as president, secretary and

“Rob” Hamlin was recognized for

MSU degrees, a 1992 bachelor’s in

the MSU Alumni Association. “We

membership chair for the Atlanta

service as student recruiting chair

social studies education and a 2005

are proud to honor and recognize

Chapter. He is currently a senior

in the Birmingham area. Hamlin,

master’s in history.

them for their dedicated service

systems analyst for SITA.

of Helena, Ala., is a teacher in

Brenda M. Smith of Leakesville

to our university.” •

Enthusiasm sparks two new alumni chapters parties, after-hours socials, and they have

the first official meeting was held in September

by two this February as it welcomed the 94th

participated in SEC-centered gatherings as the

2011. Since then, the group has gained

and 95th official chapters. Formed through the

official MSU representatives.

additional members and looks forward to being

The MSU Alumni Association grew its family

efforts of passionate and loyal Bulldog alumni,

“The Orlando group is very excited about

officially launched this year.

“We welcome these two new chapters

the St. Louis, Mo., and Orlando, Fla., chapters

beginning the chapter, and already have a strong

were officially voted in by the national board of

slate of officers in place to lead the charge,”

into our Alumni Association family,” said

directors during their spring meeting.

stated Michael Richardson, coordinator of

Jimmy Abraham, associate vice president

chapter programs for the Alumni Association.

for development and alumni and executive

Scott Polk, a 1995 business alumnus, is leading the Greater Orlando, Fla., Chapter.

In addition, a team of alumni from St. Louis

director of the MSU Alumni Association.

Polk, a die-hard Bulldog, contacted the

has joined together to launch another chapter.

“Mississippi State is proud to have another

Alumni Association about beginning a

Led by Tracy Whitehead, a 1994 alumnus, and

group of loyal alumni in Florida and charter

chapter, and things got rolling in 2012 when

Tracy Fortenberry, a 1991 alumna, this will be

new ground in Missouri.”

an interest meeting for alumni and friends

the first chapter located in Missouri.

was held in the area. The first meeting was a

Roots for the St. Louis chapter date back to

For information on how to join either new chapter, visit the MSU

huge success, and the group has since hosted

2010 when interest in forming a group was

Alumni Association website at

several events such as football game-watch

first expressed. After garnering local support,

www.alumni.msstate.edu/chapterlist. • m is s is s ip p i stat e A lumnus

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Alumni

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ALUMNUS

SEC commissioner headlines 2013 leadership conference from MSU Provost and Executive

is not only informative and helpful,

Association hosted representatives

Vice President, Jerry Gilbert, Director

but is also a great gathering of so

from chapters across the nation at

of University Relations Sid Salter, and

many faithful Bulldogs.”

the annual leadership conference.

a number of MSU staff members and

Conference attendees and guests

Headlining this year’s event as

association volunteers. Roy Ruby, vice

attended the annual awards program,

the keynote speaker was Mike

president for student affairs emeritus

where MSU honored some of its

Slive, commissioner of the

and dean of the College of Education

most outstanding alumni. The night

Southeastern Conference.

emeritus, was the luncheon speaker.

began in the Hunter Henry Center

The National Alumni Association

with a reception featuring music by

also held its annual business meeting

Bill Cooke. The dinner and awards

during the conference.

presentation followed in Colvard

This February, the MSU Alumni

TALKING SEC — Southeastern Conference Commissioner Mike Slive was on MSU’s Starkville campus in February to address the MSU Alumni Association’s Leadership Conference. The commissioner and MSU President Mark E. Keenum talked in Colvard Student Union just before Slive’s presentation to MSU’s alumni leadership.

Photo by: Megan Bean

Held in Colvard Student Union, the conference also featured reports

“The leadership conference is

Student Union, with an after dinner

an excellent way for our volunteers

party back at the Hunter Henry

to connect with other alumni

Center. Guests enjoyed celebrating

leaders and learn best practices for

with live music by the band

organizing and running a chapter,”

Kannawermz.

said Jimmy Abraham, associate

For images and videos of

vice president for development

the weekend’s events, visit

aand alumni and executive director

alumni.msstate.edu or the Alumni

of the MSU Alumni Association.

Association Facebook page at

“This annual gathering of friends

facebook.com/msstatealumni. •

MSU participates in alumni career fair in Nashville The MSU Alumni Association is proud to partner with the Career Center on activities and events

in the area. The event was held in the Maddox

promoting professional development and networking

Grand Atrium in the Curb Event Center at Belmont

for alumni. Recently, the two campus organizations

University. Other universities such as Vanderbilt,

came together with MyWorkster in support of an

Tennessee, Florida, Emory and Alabama also

alumni-only career fair hosted in Nashville, Tenn.

participated in the career expo.

Held in December, “Recruit Tennessee” allowed

50

s p ring 2013

alumni to interact face to face with top employers

More than 70 MSU alumni, ranging from recent

MSU rings in

2013 at Gator Bowl

Mississippi State began the New Year in sunny Florida with events surrounding the 2013 TaxSlayer.com Gator Bowl. Though the Bulldogs were not victorious against

MSU fans gather at Jacksonville Landing for a pep rally

the Northwestern Wildcats, the maroon and white family enjoyed a host of events sponsored by the university.

The Office of the President, Foundation, Student Association, Bulldog Club and Alumni Association sponsored a party allowing fans to come together and celebrate the Bulldog spirit in Florida. Fans enjoyed “A Bulldog New Year’s Eve” with live music and fireworks at Jacksonville Landing along the St. Johns River downtown.

Earlier in the day, an MSU pep rally and the Gator Bowl parade were also held downtown.

Prior to the game, Dawg Walk, a pep rally and tailgate, allowed MSU alumni and friends to show their support to the team.

For photos from the Gator Bowl activities, visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/msstatealumni. •

grads to older alums, registered for the event. Many were

The Famous Maroon Band performs in the Gator Bowl parade

The MSU Career Center is dedicated to providing alumni

local residents, while others traveled from Arkansas,

with support and assistance for professional development

Georgia, Mississippi and Alabama to attend.

and job opportunities. Alumni seeking employment can find

“It is always good to know that your university is willing to help their alumni no matter what the age,” said Frank

an array of services available by visiting career.msstate.edu.

Alumni also can help assist other Bulldogs as they

Lacey of Adamsville, Tenn. Lacey is a 1984 political science

begin their careers by posting open positions at

alumnus.

HireADawg.msstate.edu. •

m is s is s ip p i stat e A lumnus

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Alumni

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Officers named for 2013 Alumni Delegates The Alumni Association’s student organization recently elected the 2013 slate of officers.

Founded in 1980, Alumni Delegates serve as student liaisons between the university and its alumni.

Their purpose is to improve the understanding of the role of the Alumni Association by educating and involving students in activities and events of the association.

The student branch of the Alumni Association has 44 members, and serves the campus and community by participating in a number of events. They are the

From left, Casey McGee, Samuel Bragg, Vijay Kannuthurai and Mary Lowry Nemeth.

first point of contact for events such

education is Samuel Bragg of

such a talented group of student

as the Alumni Association’s football

Rienzi. Bragg is a junior civil

leaders for 2013,” said Jimmy

tailgate at home games, the annual

engineering major, and the son of

Abraham, associate vice president

awards banquet and leadership

Jamey and Kevin Bragg.

for development and alumni and

conference, class reunions and

Hazlehurst, will serve as Delegate

Alumni Association. “The Alumni

alumni leaders.

president in 2013. The son

Delegates have served as an integral

of Chandra and Thiruvarasu

part of our association for 32 years,

led by a new group of students.

Kannuthurai, he is a junior

and we are grateful for their service

Incoming officers include:

majoring in biochemistry.

and dedication to our university

Casey McGee, vice president

Mary Lowry Nemeth will take

and its more than 125,000 alumni worldwide.”

of public relations, is a Starkville

on the role of secretary. A native

native majoring in communication

of Starkville, she is the daughter

with a concentration in public

of Renee and Mike Nemeth.

the Alumni Delegates, please

relations. McGee, a sophomore,

She is a junior majoring in

visit www.alumni.msstate.edu/

is the daughter of Kristie

kinesiology with an emphasis in

alumnidelegates. •

and David McGee.

clinical exercise physiology.

Serving as vice president of

sp ring 2013

executive director of the MSU

events for national and chapter The 2013 Delegates are being

52

Vijay Kannuthurai, of

“We are very excited to have

For more information on

Mississippi State’s All-SEC team captain Stan Brinker, left, and Loyola All-American Jerry Harkness, right, met at center court in Michigan State’s Jenison Field House for the tipoff for the historic 1963 NCAA Basketball Tournament game. Gold extended his hand and Harkness shook it - making national headlines as MSU’s administration and coaches defied the state’s political power structure aligned against integration to compete for a national championship.

Alumni pay tribute to

HISTORIC ATHLETIC ANNIVERSARY On Dec. 15, 2012, Coach Rick Ray

“We enjoyed a great dinner with

McCarthy and MSU President Dean

and the Mississippi State basketball

the Chicago Chapter remembering

W. Colvard, a plan was devised for

team traveled to Chicago, Ill., for a

this significant event in Bulldog

the team to sneak off campus and

historic matchup against the Loyola

history,” Abraham said. “The players,

play in the tournament. With the

University Chicago Ramblers. The

coaches and university administrators

plan successful, the game between

Alumni Association, along with the

who helped make this game happen

the Bulldogs and racially integrated

Bulldog Club and the Office of the

in 1963 are to be commended for

Loyola became a watershed moment

President, hosted a social for alumni

their courage.”

for the state of Mississippi and the

in the Chicago area the night before the game.

In 1963, MSU’s basketball team was invited to play in the NCAA

civil rights movement.

The 2012 rematch was played in

tournament. The Bulldogs, under

Joseph J. Gentile Arena on Loyola’s

Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse to

Head Coach Babe McCarthy, were

campus. The Bulldogs fell to the

remember the groundbreaking game

slated to play Loyola College, a team

Ramblers 59-51.

between the two schools in 1963.

that started four black players. At the

Athletic Director Scott Stricklin and

time, state law prohibited Mississippi

game, watch the “One Night

Jimmy Abraham, executive director

teams from playing against integrated

in March” documentary at

of the MSU Alumni Association,

athletic teams.

http://vimeo.com/52326856. •

More than 50 Bulldogs gathered at

addressed the crowd.

To learn more about the 1963

With the support of Coach

m is s is s ip p i stat e A lumnus

53

Alumni

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MSU alumnus forges path in

MEDICAL FELLOWSHIP For alumnus Dr. Seth Christian, graduating Christian

from Mississippi State University was the

completing an anesthesiology residency, he was

beginning of an unexpected journey. Though

awarded the first Tulane Anesthesia Freeman

his path began like most biological engineering

School of Business Scholarship, which provided

graduates, Christian has since built a career

funds for him to pursue an MBA at Tulane

around a unique set of opportunities and

University.

educational experiences.

person to ever get an MBA during residency

and found his niche in the small, yet successful

training,” he commented. “The scholarship

biological engineering department on campus.

enrolls one resident each year in the professional

After graduating in 2003, he and many of his

MBA program while simultaneously completing

peers enrolled at the University of Mississippi

the final two and a half years of residency.”

Jackson.

“Medical school was a great experience and

During this time, Christian also was accepted to the Perioperative Management Fellowship at Tulane, which is one of the few programs of its

the clinical education I received at UMMC was

kind around the country. The fellowship consists

second to none,” stated Christian.

of approximately 50 percent non-clinical time,

When preparing for his residency after medical

which is spent learning the fundamentals of

school, Christian thought back to his studies at

operating room metrics, operations management,

MSU, and how they prepared him for the next

scheduling, staffing, quality improvement,

step in his education.

regulatory policy and billing and coding. Fellows

“My engineering background definitely

spend time shadowing executives from Team

influenced my decision to pursue

Health, a large practice management firm, during

anesthesiology during residency,” said Christian.

site visits, mergers and new practice acquisitions.

“Anesthesiology requires a strong scientific

Fellows also lead quality improvement projects,

background in physics, chemistry, physiology

author book chapters, and provide practice

and pharmacology, and MSU provided a solid

management lectures to the residents.

foundation for that.”

Christian’s next step took him to Tulane

s p ring 2013

“To my knowledge, I am probably the only

Christian attended MSU in the late 2000s,

School of Medicine in Christian’s hometown of

54

University Hospital in New Orleans, La. While

“The Tulane Department of Anesthesiology has a strong interest in developing physician

leaders, and it was the perfect opportunity to immediately apply the concepts I was learning in the MBA program,” Christian stated.

After finishing his residency and the fellowship, Christian accepted a position as a clinical instructor and as the director of quality in the Department of Anesthesiology at Tulane University Hospital. He owes much of his success to lessons learned at MSU. “I have been amazed to find a career path that is able to combine my undergraduate degree in engineering, my medical degree and MBA,” he said. “I have a strong interest in improving the efficiency and delivery of healthcare, and plan to focus on improving the quality of care offered at Tulane through improved clinical metrics

Top, Christian participates annually in a mission trip to the Dominican Republic.

and increased operational efficiency.”

Bottom, Christian and teammates enjoy a relay race competition.

Christian is engaged to Pia Smith, and the two will be married in April 2013. Outside of the hospital, he enjoys competing in triathlons, marathons and Crossfit.

He also participates in a yearly surgical mission trip to the Dominican Republic. •

m is s is s ip p i stat e A lumnus

55

Alumni

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ALUMNUS

Outstanding Chapters

named for 2012 Each year, the Alumni Association recognizes chapters for their dedication to MSU throughout the state and nation. In February, more than 30 chapters were honored at the annual alumni awards banquet. Gold, silver and bronze cowbells were given to chapter representatives in appreciation for their service.

Gold chapters included East Texas Chapter, LawrenceJefferson Davis Chapter, Oktibbeha County Chapter and Pearl River County Chapter.

Silver chapters included Atlanta, Ga., Chapter, Central Mississippi Chapter, George-Greene Chapter and Tishomingo County Chapter.

Bronze chapters included Covington County Chapter, HuntsvilleDecatur, Ala., Chapter, Panola County Chapter and Southeast Mississippi Chapter.

56

s p ri ng 2013

Also recognized were the honor chapters, which included: Alcorn County Attala County Baton Rouge, La. Birmingham, Ala. Bolivar County Charlotte, N.C. Chickasaw County DeSoto County Fort Worth, Texas Hancock County Harrison-Stone Houston, Texas Jackson County Lauderdale County Lee County Leflore-Carroll Lincoln County

Memphis, Tenn.

Mobile, Ala. Montgomery, Ala. Nashville, Tenn.

Northeast Florida Northwest Florida Prentiss County Quitman County Scott County Simpson County South Texas Southwest Mississippi Tippah County Tuscaloosa, Ala. Union County Warren County Washington, D.C.

Foundation

NEWS

13 SPRING

ALUMNUS

ALEWINES further science education with scholarship

A

desire to provide a four-year university, science-oriented education to talented Mississippi

students led Ralph and Betty Alewine to establish a scholarship at Mississippi State University. The Alewines wanted the scholarship to attract top Mississippi high school science students to enroll in a curriculum of hard sciences offered by the university’s College of Arts and Sciences.

From left, Betty Alewine, scholarship recipient Hannah Harrell, and Ralph Alewine.

on academic performance.

Alewine’s personal interest in the sciences was

secretary of defense, responsible for nuclear

cultivated by his early experience with MSU. As

arms control and nuclear non-proliferation

a high school student in Jackson, he was selected

programs for the U.S. Department of Defense.

years ago to incoming freshman Hannah

to attend a summer program at Mississippi

He attributes much of his professional success to

Harrell from Pontotoc. Harrell was selected

State organized by Professor Clyde Q. Sheely

the sound academic foundation that he received

for the scholarship based on her academic

of the chemistry department and supported by

at MSU. Alewine was honored as the 1993

accomplishments and her commitment to

the National Science Foundation to introduce

College of Arts and Sciences Alumni Fellow and

rigorous coursework.

gifted high school students to studies and

is now a member of the MSU College of Arts

careers in science and engineering. The

and Sciences advisory board.

summer study program, called the SCIENEER

Betty Alewine also has enjoyed an extremely

The first scholarship was awarded four

“After visiting the campus when I was a senior in high school, I knew I wanted to be at MSU,” Harrell said. “Later, I received notification that

Program, also oriented the group to life on the

successful career. She is the retired president

I had received the Alewine Scholarship and that

MSU campus. Many of the graduates of the

and CEO of COMSAT Corp., which provided

just made my decision perfect.”

program subsequently enrolled in science and

global satellite and digital network services and

engineering programs at Mississippi State.

technology. She is currently a director of the

the Outstanding Freshman Chemistry Student.

New York Life Insurance Co., the Brink’s Co.

Harrell is currently completing her studies as a

and Rockwell Automation Inc.

senior chemistry major and has plans to enter

“I thought the concentrated program was outstanding and the learning experience, which included small research projects in a number

“Following our initial retirements, we decided

In her first year at MSU, Hannah was named

the medical field.

The Alewines, now Florida residents,

of academic departments at MSU, sparked my

that we wanted to give back to MSU by setting

interest in the sciences. I received an invaluable

up a scholarship that would attract the most

have received much gratification from their

preview of what I could look forward to as a

talented science students from Mississippi high

relationship with Hannah, and they look

student at MSU,” Alewine recalled.

schools to study at MSU,” Alewine said.

forward to her graduation ceremony in May.

Alewine went on to earn a bachelor of science

By working with the MSU Foundation, they

“I receive encouragement from the Alewines

in physics from Mississippi State, a master’s of

established the Betty and Ralph Alewine Merit

frequently,” Harrell said, “whether it is a note

science in geophysics from Brown University

Scholarship in the College of Arts and Sciences.

for getting good grades or congratulations

and a Ph.D. in geophysics from the California

The scholarship provides annual tuition and

on being able to receive the scholarship

Institute of Technology. Prior to his retirement,

housing for an in-state resident, and the award

for another year. They have been among

he served seven years as deputy assistant to the

is renewable on a year-to-year basis contingent

my biggest supporters.” • m is s is s ip p i stat e A lumnus

57

Foundation

NEWS

13 SPRING

ALUMNUS

MSU Foundation announces

2013 OFFICERS, INCOMING MEMBERS As the Mississippi State University

Houston, Texas, and is the retired

Assuming the position of treasurer

Foundation enters its 51st year of

chairman, president and CEO of

is Mary M. Childs of Ripley, who

operation, a slate of loyal alumni and

Burlington Resources Inc.

is president, CEO, COO and vice

friends of the university are serving

Incoming vice president is

chairman of The Peoples Bank. She is

as board leaders and members. New

Earnest W. “Earnie” Deavenport

a 1980 banking and finance graduate,

leaders and incoming members for

of Kiawah Island, S.C., who is a

who just completed her first term on

the 45-member group began new

1960 MSU chemical engineering

the board.

terms on January 1.

graduate. Deavenport concluded a

MSU staff members make up the

Mississippi native Bobby S.

successful business career in 2001

remaining board officers. John P.

Shackouls begins his first term as

when he retired as chairman and

Rush, vice president for development

board president, following several

chief executive officer of Kingsport,

and alumni, is the Foundation

terms as vice president.

Tenn.-based Eastman Chemical

board’s CEO; David Easley, executive

Co. He later completed a master’s

director of finance, its chief financial

science degree from Mississippi State

degree at the Massachusetts Institute

officer; and Jack McCarty, executive

in chemical engineering in 1972, and

of Technology. He was awarded an

director of development, serves

was awarded an honorary doctor

honorary doctor of science degree

as board secretary. They, too, are

of science in 2010. He resides in

from MSU in 2011.

MSU graduates. •

Shackouls earned a bachelor of

Chartered in 1962, the MSU Foundation has raised more than $1 billion in its history. It closed fiscal year 2012 marking the largest giving year ever recorded for Mississippi State, with more than $86 million raised. The Foundation administers most of the campus-based fundraising activities and endowment funds. • 58

sp ring 2013

Incoming members who will serve three-year terms include: Linda F. Parker of Bolton

Wallace L. Seal of Bay St. Louis

is secretary of Sunbelt Wholesale and active with area

earned a bachelor of science in geoscience from MSU

organizations. She is a longtime friend of the university.

in 2000. He is manager of North Beach Haulers LLC.

Nancy Qualls of Little Rock, Ark.,

Milton Sundbeck of West Point

is president of Qualls and Associates. She

is president and CEO of Southern Ionics Inc. He

holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from

studied chemistry at the University of Texas and

Oklahoma City University.

accounting at West Texas A&M.

Individuals returning to the board for new three-year terms include: John N. “Nutie” Dowdle of Columbus

Richard H. Puckett Sr. of Jackson

is chairman of the board of Dowdle Enterprises.

is chairman and CEO of Puckett Machinery Co.

He earned a bachelor of science degree in

He earned a bachelor of science in general business

marketing in 1965.

administration in 1977.

Haley R. Fisackerly of Jackson earned a B.B.A. in management from MSU in

Richard A. Rula of Jackson

1987. He later earned an M.P.A. in public policy

is president of Hemphill Construction Co. He earned

administration from George Washington University.

a bachelor of science in civil engineering in 1970.

He is president and CEO of Entergy Mississippi.

Hassell H. Franklin of Houston

Turner A. Wingo of Collierville, Tenn.,

is chairman and CEO of the Franklin Corp. He

earned a bachelor of science in general business

earned a bachelor of science in management in 1959.

administration in 1967. He is the retired owner of Sherry’s Hallmark.

Wilbert G. “Mickey” Holliman Jr. of Belden is the retired chairman and CEO of Furniture Brands International. He graduated in 1960 with a bachelor of science in management.

m is s is s ip p i stat e A lumnus

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Foundation

NEWS

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ALUMNUS

StatePride boasts

$118.3 MILLION final total

Mississippi State University has concluded StatePride: An Initiative for Student and Faculty Support with

2012. The total number of contributors giving through

more than $118.3 million in contributions from

StatePride totaled 7,781, with 1,779 of those being first-

generous alumni and friends. Over the past four years,

time donors to the university.

StatePride’s success has been evident in the significant growth in university scholarships, faculty development

$83 million raised in student scholarships, shattering the $70 million originally

endowed positions.

sought. Also, faculty support eclipsed the $30

assisted Mississippi

million expected, reaching

State with its steady

more than $35 million.

growth in enrollment,

StatePride was launched

which has climbed to more than 20,000 students.

with the investiture of Mark E. Keenum as MSU’s 19th

Beginning in 2009, the endeavor focused on raising

president, and during its four-year run became a unified

funds for two core areas—students and faculty. Gifts

fundraising effort between the MSU Foundation and

for StatePride also provided a steady stream of annual

athletics. A portion of the annual revenue from MSU

support.

athletics matched certain gifts through the initiative.

The initiative surged past its $100 million goal well

s p ring 2013

Final totals for StatePride translated into more than

opportunities and The initiative has

60

ahead of schedule and closed out its run on Dec. 31,

Strides in student scholarships: At the heart of Mississippi State are students who come

will allow Mississippi State to lure top educators to the academic community, who in turn attract significant

to the state’s leading university to pursue degrees. StatePride

research support, outstanding graduate students and other

enabled MSU to award need-based scholarships for

distinguished faculty.

deserving students and academic scholarships to compete for the best and brightest students.

StatePride emphasized three annual scholarships to

As a result of StatePride commitments, 22 endowed positions were funded across the university. In all, six endowed chairs and 16 professorships were created,

help recruit new students to Mississippi State. Funds for

bringing the university’s total to 69. However, 12 of the 69

scholarships established Legacy Scholarships, Loyalty

are from planned gifts not yet realized.

Scholarships and Promise Awards, and student recipients

Beyond StatePride:

across the university benefited from these financial awards.

In all, 241 endowed scholarships were established for

Although StatePride has drawn to a close, specialized

students through StatePride, and 336 annual scholarships

fundraising efforts at Mississippi State will continue as the

were created. The total number of MSU students receiving

MSU Foundation works to cultivate additional support

scholarship funding over the course of StatePride reached

from private gifts for the university’s priorities.

11,882.

Strides in faculty development: StatePride also included support to recruit and retain

As MSU prepares for the future, scholarships will continue to be priority for fundraising. Gifts for scholarships are needed university-wide and, in particular, for general university. The general scholarships, established

esteemed faculty members and increase faculty research

through the university’s new Compass Scholars Program,

and development opportunities in all areas of study.

may be awarded to students in any academic discipline.

During StatePride, Mississippi State continued its work to compete for, and retain, distinguished faculty

Gifts of any amount are welcomed annually.

The MSU Foundation will also focus efforts on securing

in a time without competitive salaries. By recognition of

gifts for additional endowed positions in crucial areas.

their accomplishments and support of their teaching and

Minimum amounts are in place for donors to contribute

research endeavors, StatePride acknowledged selected

for these positions, and amounts may vary depending on

members of the MSU faculty base with one-time financial

the college, school or area. Typically, $500,000 will endow

awards for outstanding performance.

a professorship, and $1.5 million will create a chair. These

Gifts from donors, coupled with an athletic match,

positions provide competitive salaries and resources for

comprised an individual’s faculty award. The awards

research, travel and professional development, and afford

were apportioned on the basis of a college’s number of

opportunities to invest added resources in a promising field

faculty and that unit’s ability to raise contributions to

or discipline.

secure matching funds from MSU Athletics. The awards

Besides scholarships and endowed positions, many other

were distributed over MSU’s eight academic colleges

giving opportunities exist at Mississippi State. Alumni and

and the MSU Library. MSU-Meridian faculty members

friends may request a copy of the MSU Foundation’s Guide

were eligible to apply through their home college on the

to Giving by telephoning 662-325-7000 or accessing the

Starkville campus.

publication online at www.msufoundation.com. •

It takes esteemed faculty throughout Mississippi State to challenge students to excel in all learning environments.

Additional endowed positions achieved through StatePride

m is s is s ip p i stat e A lumnus

61

Class

NEWS

13 SPRING

ALUMNUS

’65 Hartley Peavey

’73 Thomas L. Hengst

of Meridian, founder and CEO

has been chosen chief of river

of Blacksburg, Va., has been named

of Peavey Electronics, has been

operations at the Vicksburg District

assistant vice president of human

honored by the Mississippi Arts and

of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

resources at Virginia Tech.

Entertainment Center with a bronze

Prior to his appointment, he

star on the center’s Walk of Fame.

served as chief of flood control and

’99 Joe Green

At the same time, Gov. Phil Bryant

hydropower.

(M.P.A. ’00) of Ridgeland has

honored Peavey Electronics with

’85 Jim Richmond

Trail, a program of the Mississippi

of Ridgeland, has been named

accounting and business advisory

Development Authority.

vice president of corporate

firms. Green specializes in assurance

communications for C Spire

advisory services.

published her first novel, That

Wireless.

HORNE LLP, one of the nation’s top

’00 Will Carpenter

Summer, in December 2012. She is

Jeff Trotter,

the author of three nonfiction books

a partner with law firm Adams

vice president at Trustmark Bank in

and more than 200 articles and short

and Reese LLP, has been named

Meridian.

stories. That Summer is available

the firm’s special business services

through online bookstores Amazon,

practice group leader.

Barnes & Noble and Christian Books.

’69 Thomas McKnight (Ph.D. ’75) of Spokane, Wash., has been elected to the board of directors of the American Academy of Clinical Psychology.

Daniel F. Whalen

(M.B.A. ’02) has been promoted to

Derrick Pratt has been named zone general manager for International Paper,

of Cleveland has been promoted to

reporting to the regional general

president of Cleveland State Bank.

manager-east.

’89 Thomas Peyton Kendall

’01 Will Gilmer of Sulligent, Ala., has been selected as one of only four participants in

’70 Jerry G. Brewer

has been named community bank

the Faces of Farmers and Ranchers

president of Trustmark National

program by the U.S. Farmers and

of Senatobia has been inducted

Bank in Vicksburg.

Ranchers Alliance. He will share his

into the Mississippi Association

experiences on a national stage to

of Realtors’ Hall of Fame. He has

’94 Chad Gartrell

been a Realtor in Senatobia since

(M.S. ’07) has been named chief of

about how food is grown to feed the

1971 and is past president of the

the Geotechnical Engineering and

nation.

Mississippi Association of Realtors

Geosciences Branch, Geotechnical

and past national president of the

and Structures Laboratory, U.S.

Realtors Land Institute.

Army Engineer Research and Development Center in Vicksburg.

s p ring 2013

been named a partner within

a marker on the Mississippi Blues

’66 Jo Huddleston

62

’97 Yohna Chambers

help answer consumers’ questions

’02 Joy Davis Herndon of Lucedale has graduated from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College with an associate degree in funeral service technology.

Stephen T. Masley

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS Hattie Fate Abraham, Feb. 28, 2013, to Joshua W. Abraham (‘03) and Morgan Dawson Abraham (‘08) of Tupelo.

of Jackson has been elected a member of

James Caden Abraham,

the law firm McGlinchey Stafford. Masley

Feb. 24, 2013, to Jasen S. Abraham (‘08) and wife Whitney of Starkville.

joined the firm in 2006 as an associate.

’09 Elaine Hulitt of the U.S. Army Engineer Research and

Thomas Darcy Dixon-Gordon, Dec. 4, 2012, to Thomas Duane Gordon (’96) and Matthew T. Dixon (’96) of Middletown, Ohio.

Development Center in Vicksburg has

Raylee Alise Hollinghead,

been named a Modern-Day Technology

Aug. 1, 2012, to Elisabeth Hollinghead (’09) and Drew Hollinghead (’09) of Leakesville.

Leader for 2012 by the Council of Engineering Deans of Historically Black

Jenna Jacobs Mathis,

Colleges and Universities, Lockheed

March 16, 2012, to Jennifer Mathis (’99) and Jeff Mathis (’00) of Lucedale.

Martin Corp. and US Black Engineer and Information Technology magazine.

’11 Kellon Lawrence

Mason Grant Nichols, June 13, 2012, to Donnie Nichols (’98) and Diann Mills Nichols (’97, ’98) of Golden.

(M.B.A. ’12) of Flowood has joined a

Payton Dempsie Ward,

subsidiary of energy company Delek

Aug. 29, 2012, to Russ Ward (’11) and Emilie Morrison Ward (’00, ’12) of Vicksburg.

US Holdings as a fuel pricing analyst in Brentwood, Tenn.

m is s is s ip p i stat e A lumnus

63

In

MEMORIAM

13 SPRING

ALUMNUS

Harvey B. Vanderford (’34, M.S. ’39)—102, Murfreesboro, Tenn.; professor emeritus of agronomy at Mississippi State, June 29, 2012.

Matthew D. Baine Jr. (’38)— Round Rock, Texas; retired sales representative for Leffler Millwork Co., Sept. 6, 2012.

C.B. Duke (’47)—89, Hermitage, Tenn.; retired district agent for the Mississippi Cooperative Extension Service, Dec. 9, 2012.

James Elton Brown (’48)—92, Lucedale; retired forester for International Paper Co. and World War II veteran, April 20, 2012.

Hermon W. Odom (’49)—Bay City, Texas; retired collection and office manager for Wells Fargo and GMAC, June 15, 2012.

John Henry Wright Jr. (’50)—87, Gulfport; retired geologist and World War II veteran, Nov. 16, 2012.

David Julius Etzold (’51, Ph.D. ’68)—86, Pass Christian; retired electronics engineer and university professor and World War II veteran, Nov. 6, 2012.

Jack W. Lemmons (’51)—Meridian; retired BellSouth engineer and World War II veteran, Dec. 7, 2012.

s p ring 2013

Frank Henry Laakso Jr. (’59)—80, Cedar Park, Texas; retired personnel manager and recruiter, Jan. 12, 2013.

Charles A. “Chuck” Jordan (’68)— Greenville; Greenville mayor and retired president of Planters Bank’s Greenville office, Nov. 13, 2012.

George L. Ewing Jr. (’70)—72, Clinton; sales representative and custom home builder, Jan. 14, 2013.

Sue Schmitt (’84)—66, Seattle, Wash.; dean emeritus and professor in Seattle University’s College of Education and former Leadership Fellow at Mississippi State, Sept. 28, 2012.

Patricia Palmer Parker (’85)—78, Philadelphia; retired accountant, Oct. 10, 2012.

William Anthony Nichols (’88)—49, Conroe, Texas; senior executive with Accenture LLP, Jan. 21, 2013.

C. Gary Jones (’70)—64, Fairhope, Ala.; chemical engineer and executive for Chevron, March 24, 2012.

Sidney Wayne Howell (’72)—62, Ocean Springs; retired chief accountant for Blossman Gas Co., July 11, 2012.

Lowell Douglas Carter (’74)—61, Utica; timber buyer and owner of Edwards Forest Products Inc., Jan. 7, 2013.

Fredrick Leroy Smith Jr. (’75)—61, Lincolnton, Ga.; electrical engineer for nuclear power industry, Sept. 3, 2012.

Billy Carroll Paul Sr. (’52)—Sulligent, Ala.; retired retired personnel manager for Hyster Company, Dec. 19, 2012.

John Heinrich (’76)—64, Springfield Township, Ohio; retired Delta Airlines captain and vice president and senior financial adviser with Heinrich-Kamal Group, Dec. 9, 2012.

Jim L. Montgomery (’53)—81, Little Rock, Ark.; retired employee benefits manager for Aetna Insurance Co., Nov. 22, 2012.

Rosemary Knapp Thompson (’76)— 89, Tupelo; retired publications editor for Mississippi State Extension.

Freda Brooks Wilbanks (’56)—95, Corinth; retired elementary school teacher, July 3, 2012.

Jason Pigg (’82)—52, Starkville; selfemployed forester and manager of Double Deuce Ranch in Shuqualak, Dec. 20, 2012.

David Wesley Evers Jr. (’57)—78, Starkville; retired senior marketing specialist for Exxon Corp., Jan. 6, 2013.

64

Robert S. Nicholson (’58)—77, San Jose, Calif.; retired mechanical engineer, Jan. 2, 2013.

John Seale Vaughan (’83)—51, Ponchatoula, La.; Parish National Bank officer, Dec. 28, 2012.

Celia Robson (former employee)—91, Starkville; former physical therapist at Longest Student Health Center, Jan. 9, 2013.

Geneva Harrison (friend)—74, Lucedale; medical office manager, Oct. 22, 2012.

Elaine McLeod (friend)—84, Leakesville; retired music teacher at Rocky Creek and Leakesville elementary schools, April 13, 2012.

•

McCain in Spring photo by Megan Bean

The Beaux-Arts architecture of Mississippi State’s McCain Hall is surrounded this time of year by a bouquet of yellow daffodils. Built in 1909, McCain Hall’s Beaux-Arts style could be found across the nation from the 1880s to the 1920s as architects embraced it for construction of many academic facilities. MSU’s James Worth Bagley College of Engineering is housed in McCain.

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Take that first step and start your charitable gift planning now. Contact the MSU Foundation’s Office of Planned Giving at 662.325.3707. Or, visit our website at msufoundation.com and click on “Planned Giving.”

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