Mississippi State University Alumnus Spring 2012

MISSISSIPPI STATE ALUMNUS Spring 2012

MISSISSIPPI STATE ALUMNUS Spring 2012

Spring 2012 | Vol. 88 | No. 3 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 Designer Matt Watson (’05)

02

America’s unique education system celebrates 150 years In 1862, American newspapers were full of reports from the battlefields of the Civil War, but there were other events that year that would forever change the nation. This year, MSU and universities in every state are celebrating the 150th anniversary of one of those events.

06

A half century of success in fundraising impacts university The Mississippi State University Foundation commemorated the 50th anniversary of its founding in February. Graduates and friends of the university have unselfishly supported the work of Mississippi State by giving through the MSU Foundation with loyalty, pride and passion since the organization’s incorporation in 1962.

14

30th Anniversary: CVM honors first graduates In 1981, the first 25 graduates of MSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine received their doctor of veterinary medicine degrees. In October 2011, 19 of them returned to campus to participate in the Pegasus Gala, a series of events celebrating the 30th anniversary of their graduation.

16

Mitchell Memorial’s unique collections house invaluable treasures For thousands of students and other patrons, Mississippi State’s Mitchell Memorial Library offers the gamut of resources anyone would expect at a major university. But many do not realize what vast treasures housed as part of MSU Libraries’ rare and eclectic collections are right at their fingertips.

22

Global Connections: University forms International Institute One major component of Mississippi State’s vision is to become a “leading public research university that is globally aware and involved,” and this has led to the creation of the MSU International Institute.

26 Campus news 36 Alumni news 44 Foundation news 46 Class news 48 In memoriam

Photographers Russ Houston (’85) Megan Bean Beth Newman Wynn Mississippi State University Alumni Association National Officers Jerry L. Toney, ’96, national president Camille Scales Young, ’94, ’96, national first vice president Tommy R. Roberson, ’67, national second vice president Jodi White Turner, ’97, ’99, national treasurer Karen Dugard Lawler, ’82, ’94, immediate former national president

ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

Cover illustration by 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 mississippi state A lumnus

1

Justin Morrill

LAND GRANTS:

AMERICA’S UNIQUE EDUCATION SYSTEM CELEBRATES

150 YEARS

By Bob Ratliff

Students at Mississippi State and other land-grant colleges were originally organized along military lines. At the outbreak of World War II, the schools’ Reserve Officer Training Corps provided a valuable resource as the nation mobilized for the war effort.

2

spring 2012

I

n 1862, American

education at 14, when he went to work as a store

newspapers were full

clerk. He went on to a successful career in business

of reports from the

and farming.

battlefields of the Civil War, but there were other

in 1858, he introduced legislation to create public

events that year that

schools of higher education in each state to provide

would forever change

training in the agricultural and industrial arts, as well

the nation. In 2012,

as the traditional liberal arts. Funding for the schools

universities in every state

would be provided by income generated from federal

are celebrating the 150th

grants of public land to each state. His first bill

anniversary of one of

narrowly passed in Congress, only to be vetoed by

those events.

President James Buchanan.

On July 2, 1862,

The idea of making higher education available to

President Abraham

people of modest means was both unique and radical

Lincoln signed the Morrill Act, and his signature

150 years ago, said MSU Department of History

began the process of making higher education

Head Alan Marcus.

possible for the sons and daughters of all Americans.

“The Morrill Act was the first in a series of steps

“Our graduates are leaders in business, education, engineering and the state’s and nation’s agricultural enterprises.

All of this began with the Morrill Act...”

— Mark E. Keenum, MSU president

In 1854, Morrill was elected to Congress, and

“The purpose of the Land Grant Act was to provide higher education to the sons and daughters

that created the nation’s land-grant universities, the

of working people, farmers and mechanics, people

largest and most effective public higher education

who usually didn’t have an opportunity to go to

system in the world and one that is uniquely

college,” he said. “Early on in the congressional

American,” said MSU President Mark Keenum. “As

debate, there was the argument that if you really

a land-grant institution, Mississippi State University

educated these young boys and girls, they would

is dedicated to academic excellence, research, and

pursue more prestigious occupations rather

service.

than applying their new skills to farming and

“Our graduates are leaders in business, education, engineering and the state’s and nation’s agricultural

manufacturing.

“The idea that finally prevailed, however, was that

enterprises. All of this began with the Morrill Act

extending education would prosper both individuals

and was expanded with other legislation, including

and the nation.”

the creation of experiment stations by the Hatch Act

Mississippi received its land grant following the

in 1887, which created the experiment stations to

state’s re-entry into the Union in 1870. Income from

provide agricultural research, and the Smith-Lever

the sale of the state’s land grant, which was located

Act in 1914, which established the Extension Service

in New Mexico Territory, was first used to create an

to provide university-based educational resources to

agricultural and mechanical program for whites at

the public.”

the University of Mississippi in Oxford and for blacks

The author of the first land-grant legislation was Congressman Justin Smith Morrill of Vermont.

The son of a blacksmith, Morrill ended his formal

at Alcorn University in Lorman.

In a 1979 journal article, “The Cow in the Front Yard: How a Land-Grant University Grew in

mississippi state A lumnus

3

Campus, circa 1930s.

Mississippi,” Mississippi historian John K. Bettersworth, described the effort to establish the program at the

were very vocal about what they wanted their children

University of Mississippi.

to learn,” Marcus said. “These types of groups were the

“(Professor of geology and agricultural chemistry Eugene Hilgard) strove valiantly to get something going, but students would have no part

land-grant schools’ earliest constituent group and remain strong advocates for the land-grant system.”

Mississippi A&M and other land-grant schools soon

of it,” Bettersworth wrote. “After five enrollments in

became important forces for economic development,

‘agriculture and mechanical arts’ in 1873, and only

Marcus said.

three in 1874, Hilgard left for California. In 1876, the whole program was abandoned.”

The program at Lorman was successful and continued

“In 1926, the Borden Company was looking for a site for a big new manufacturing plant for condensed milk,” he said. “Starkville was one of the sites under

as Alcorn A&M College. Efforts by the farm organization

consideration because of the willingness of farmers in

Patrons of Husbandry, or Grange, led the Mississippi

the area to produce milk in the quantities needed for the

Legislature to establish Mississippi Agricultural and

plant and the availability of the college to teach modern

Mechanical College in Starkville in 1878.

dairy production methods. When Starkville was selected

Mississippi A&M became firmly established under the leadership of its first president, Stephen D. Lee. President Lee, who served as a general in the

4

“The Grange and other agricultural organizations

as the site for the plant, a parade with the theme of ‘Prosperity’ was held to celebrate.”

Partnerships between Mississippi State University,

Confederate Army, recruited experienced faculty

agricultural organizations and businesses have

from northern schools. The new college also received

continued to strengthen and are today a key part of

continuing support from farm organizations.

Mississippi’s largest industry, said Greg Bohach, MSU

spring 2012

“Agriculture, including forestry and natural resources, is a $7 billion industry in Mississippi and provides 29 percent of the state’s jobs.”

— Greg Bohach, MSU vice president for agriculture, forestry, and veterinary medicine

Timeline

1862 The Homestead Act opened millions of acres of farmland in the West to settlement.

1862 The Morrill Act established the land-grant system of higher education.

1878 Mississippi Agricultural and Mechanical College founded.

1887 The Hatch Act gave federal funds to state land-grant colleges to create agricultural experiment stations.

1890 The Second Morrill Act required each state to show that race was not an

admissions criterion, or else to designate a separate land-grant institution for persons of color.

1914 The Smith-Lever Act established the Cooperative Extension Service as the outreach arm of land-grant colleges.

vice president for agriculture, forestry,

and fiber enterprises and our rich

and veterinary medicine.

natural resources.

“Agriculture, including forestry

“While the vision of Justin Morrill and

and natural resources, is a $7 billion

the other early leaders of the land-grant

industry in Mississippi and provides

movement has become a reality, it must

29 percent of the state’s jobs,” he said.

be our vision to continue to apply the

“Our two land-grant schools, MSU

resources, including new technology, to

and Alcorn State University, provide

ensure a food-secure future for our state,

essential support to Mississippi’s food

nation and world.” •

Left: Graduation program from first graduating class, 1883.

mississippi state A lumnus

5

A half century of success in fundraising Impacts university

By Amy Cagle

T 6

he Mississippi State University Foundation

It is perhaps fitting the then-Development Foundation was

commemorated the 50th anniversary of its

chartered in the month of February, which is when Mississippi

founding in February. Graduates and friends

State University also marks its 1878 founding. From Mississippi

of the university have unselfishly supported

Agricultural and Mechanical College to Mississippi State College to

the work of Mississippi State by giving through

Mississippi State University, the ever-evolving institution has come

the MSU Foundation with loyalty, pride and passion since the

to rely on the voluntary support of its graduates and friends through

organization’s incorporation in 1962.

service and philanthropic endeavors throughout its 134-year history.

spring 2012

Casey, H.B. Crosby, W.B. Donald, Lewis F.

In 1960, the incoming presidential

Over the years, Mississippi State has benefited

administration of Dr. Dean W. Colvard would

Mallory Sr. and T.K. Martin. Although now

university-wide from outright gifts and pledges

usher in a phase of growth for Mississippi

deceased, these men left their mark on the

paid over time as fundraising efforts increased.

State University like no other. The late

institution through their work to firmly

In recent years, gifts of property through the

Colvard believed an additional margin of

establish the Development Foundation and

Bulldog Properties program and timberland

excellence would set the established land-

implement its operating procedures.

accepted as part of the Bulldog Forest have also begun impacting the students, faculty

grant institution on a long-range course for

The early Development Foundation

exponential growth. Unlike his presidential

began its fundraising operations from two

and programs of the university. Deferred gifts

predecessors, Colvard was not an alumnus

small rooms of Lee Hall on the historic Drill

such as bequests and annuities have aided the

and not a Mississippian, but he was a

Field. From there, the organization moved

university’s progress, as have countless gifts-in-

visionary who held a most respected view of

to the Colvard Student Union, following

kind. The university’s endowment now exceeds

the institution and the state.

the building’s completion in 1966. By 1985,

$347 million.

“For Mississippi State University to reach its full potential and maintain that margin of excellence which will assure distinction, it must have extra support other than that provided by fees, grants and legislative appropriations.”

— Dean W. Colvard, MSU president, 1960-66

Although the MSU Alumni Association,

operations for the Development Foundation

When the Development Foundation was

through its foundation, had been awarding small

relocated to the Butler-Williams Center. From

chartered, Mississippi State University’s

student scholarships and assisting with securing

1962 to 1992, the Development Foundation

student enrollment topped 6,000 students.

funds for campus improvements for many years,

enjoyed great success as it evolved into the

Over the past five decades the university has

Colvard decided that a more organized group

MSU Foundation Inc. in 1993.

more than tripled its student body. In the

should be formed to solicit private gifts. These

The MSU Foundation would gain a

MSU Foundation’s 50th year, Mississippi State

contributions, he believed, would provide many

permanent home in 2002. The extraordinary

boasts an enrollment of over 20,400 students,

opportunities for alumni to impact the university

Hunter Henry Center, built entirely on the

coming from all 50 states and more than 70

in ways never before realized. A group of

strength of gifts, opened as a conference center

counties.

dedicated graduates shared his belief and worked

and special events venue. A cornerstone gift

to fulfill his vision.

from the late MSU engineering alumnus

history resulted in unprecedented growth for

Hunter W. Henry Jr., along with a matching gift

Mississippi State University. These decades

chartered on Feb. 5, 1962, with $120,000

challenge, financed the facility. The building

stand as a testament to the generosity of

from 200 founding members for its first three

houses offices for the MSU Foundation,

alumni, friends, and corporations as their

years of operation. Incorporators were well-

the MSU Alumni Association and the vice

gifts yielded the margin of excellence

known alumni: H.E. Allen, J.C. Redd, Louie C.

president for MSU’s Division of Development

necessary for Mississippi State as envisioned

Spencer Jr. and Charles S. Whittington, who

and Alumni. The upper mezzanine of the

by Colvard. Highlights of the past five

served as the organization’s first president.

building showcases lifetime recognition for the

decades follow in this special section of

Other early officers were Dorris Ballew, T.E.

university’s most loyal donors.

Alumnus magazine.

The MSU Development Foundation was

A half century of MSU Foundation

mississippi state A lumnus

7

THE Reflecting on our accomplishments: THE

EIGHTIES

sixties

THE FOUNDATION

the

nineties

Charles S. Whittington, seated, left, signs the charter as MSU President Dean W. Colvard, seated, center, and Louie C. Spencer Jr. observe. Standing, from left, are: W.B. Donald, H.E. Allen and J. C. Redd.

THE TWO

THOUSANDS1 THE FOUNDATION

the foundation

2

1 The first land gift accepted by the Development Foundation was from Floyd and Thera White of Okolona, who retained a life estate in the property.

8

spring 2012

3

2

3

A gift for the construction of the carillion tower for the Chapel of Memories came from George and Jane Perry.

The first contribution for a building, through the Development Foundation, was made by J.N. McArthur for McArthur Hall.

Dean W. Covard with Thera and Floyd White

The Development Foundation recorded 88 contributions for a total of $12,542 at the close of its first full year of operation.

Patrons of Excellence became the first donor club.

Members made 10-year commitments of $1,000 per year.

Alumni formed a group to assist with athletic fundraising, now the Bulldog Club.

THE

sixties 4

5

THE TWO

THOUSANDS

the

nineties

THE FOUNDATION

the foundation

6

E.B. McCool

7

4 MSU Development Foundation marks 10th anniversary on Feb. 5, 1972.

At the close of its first decade, the Development Foundation had raised over $4.5 million, and the university’s endowment approached $1 million.

5 Allen Hall took its place as the main administration building on campus. A portion of funds for the facility came through a bequest from H.E. Allen.

6

7

A gift from alumnus E.B. “Dutch” McCool constructed McCool Hall to house the then-College of Business and Industry.

He also supported MSU by funding lights for Dudy Noble Field and a scholarship fund.

MSU marked its centennial anniversary in 1978, and the Development Foundation’s accompanying fundraising project resulted in funds raised toward the construction of McComas Hall.

Graduates of the then-College of Agriculture and Home Economics began supporting scholarships through the first alumni association established within one of MSU’s academic colleges. Since then, contributions to the AG 100 Club have supported numerous annual scholarships.

mississippi state A lumnus

9

THE

Reflecting on our accomplishments:

EIGHTIES THE FOUNDATION

THE FOUNDATION

1 Schillig Scholars with Dr. Donald W. Zacharias, MSU’s 15th president

2

3

1 The Development Foundation marked its 25th anniversary with a celebration in the Colvard Student Union, named in honor of the late Colvard, MSU’s 12th president.

10

spring 2012

4

2

3

Charles H. Templeton Sr. donated his extraordinary collection of musical machines, recordings and period sheet music. The Charles H. Templeton Sr. Music Museum in the Mitchell Memorial Library now showcases the collection.

The Ottilie Schillig Leadership Scholarships began as MSU’s first effort to competitively pursue highcaliber students in Mississippi. The scholarships were the result of a trust from the Port Gibson opera singer.

4 A gift from alumnus Eugene Butler built the campus guest house adjoining the Butler-Williams Center.

The annual giving program was launched and replaced the “dues” membership being used by the MSU Alumni Association.

President’s Club was launched for donor recognition, as the Patrons of Excellence donor club continued to thrive.

THEthe FOUNDATION

nineties the foundation

5

Leo W. Seal Jr.

6

7

9 8

5

6

The late Leo W. Seal Jr. memorialized his father with a contribution to build the Leo W. Seal Sr. M-Club. The facility hosts M-Club members when they return on game days, and is also used for a variety of functions.

Jane Perry pledged $1.5 million to renovate the historic campus cafeteria in honor of her late husband, George D. Perry.

The facility was then named Perry Cafeteria.

7

8

The late engineering alumnus Dave C. Swalm made a $14 million gift for an endowment for the Dave C. Swalm School of Chemical Engineering, and a building to house the academic unit. An earlier gift from Swalm was the first contribution to the MSU Foundation in excess of $1 million.

The Joe Frank Sanderson Sr. Center, an indoor recreation complex, opened. A substantial portion of the cost of the facility was made possible by a gift from the late Sanderson.

The Development Foundation moved to a full-fledged constituency giving program with fundraisers in MSU’s academic colleges

The family of the late John H. Bryan Sr. provided funds for an Athletic Administration building to be constructed in his memory.

MSU publicly launched its first comprehensive capital campaign, The Campaign for Mississippi State, with a goal of $78 million. Alumnus James K. Ashford served as its national general chairman. The five-year effort shattered its goal by raising $143 million.

An endowment for the JĂĄnos Radvanyi Chair in International Security Strategies was created. The chair is a universitywide institute that provides students and faculty with opportunities to gain awareness of political, economic and security issues on an international level.

Best-selling novelist and accounting alumnus John Grisham and his wife, Renee, established the John Grisham Teaching Awards. The couple also established scholarships for highcaliber students and contributed to MSU athletics.

9

The Eternal Flame Monument and the 170-foot Walk of Honor were unveiled as a perpetual tribute to the thousands of Bulldog faithful who generously supported The Campaign for Mississippi State.

mississippi state A lumnus

11

THE TWO

THOUSANDS THE FOUNDATION

2

1 1

MSU’s largest gift, $25 million from

MSU marked its 125th anniversary in 2003 with a

engineering alumnus James Worth Bagley and

celebration in Humphrey Coliseum.

wife, Jean, created endowments to further engineering education at MSU. In Bagley’s honor,

The Maroon Mile program began as recent graduates

the engineering college is known as the James

and parents help pave the parade grounds of MSU by

Worth Bagley College of Engineering.

purchasing engraved brick pavers.

2

MSU stepped up its efforts to attract

MSU officially opened the Cullis Wade Depot and

A $10 million commitment from the Riley

top-echelon students with the launch of the

Welcome Center, which houses a clock museum.

Foundation renovated the 1890 Grand Opera

prestigious Presidential Endowed Scholars

The facility was built, in part, from a significant

House and the adjacent 1889 Marks-Rothenberg

program. The inaugural PES class entered MSU

contribution from Wade and his late wife, Gladys.

Building into the state-of-the-art Riley Center

as freshmen in 2001, with four-year scholarships

for Education and Performing Arts, which is an

funded by separate endowments.

New lifetime giving levels for donor recognition were

education and conference center for MSU and the

created to keep pace with the phenomenal growth

city of Meridian.

The MSU Foundation publicly launched State of the Future: The Mississippi State Campaign

in fundraising at Mississippi State.

The MSU Foundation was recognized nationally

with a $400 million goal. A volunteer steering

Joe Ann Ward established the College of

with a coveted Circle of Excellence Award from

committee, led by alumnus Richard C. Adkerson,

Veterinary Medicine’s first endowed faculty chair,

the Council for the Advancement and Support

secured $200 million in the silent phase. The

the Hugh G. Ward Chair in Small Animal Medicine

of Education, marking the first time organized

campaign concluded with nearly 60,000 MSU

in memory of her husband, who was instrumental

development efforts at MSU had been cited for

alumni and friends contributing $462 million, with

in the college’s founding.

this overall achievement.

half being first-time donors to MSU.

Engineering alumnus Jack Hatcher established

A $1 million gift from alumnus Hassell Franklin,

The first endowed position in the College of

the Jack Hatcher Chair for Engineering

along with state funds, built the Franklin Center

Architecture, Art and Design was the Crane

Entrepreneurship in the engineering college to

for Furniture Manufacturing and Management.

Professorship in Architecture established with a

create an environment that helps students better

gift from Johnny and Bessie Lynn Crane.

understand the business startup process.

3

The Richard C. Adkerson School of

Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field was enlarged to

Accountancy was named for alumnus Richard

incorporate sky boxes and new club-level seating. The

C. Adkerson, who created an endowment for

$30 million expansion was initiated with a contribution

accounting education at MSU.

in excess of $8 million from the late alumnus F. Davis Wade Sr., along with self-generated funds.

3 12

spring 2012

4

4

MSU broke ground for a band and choral

MSU debuted StatePride: An Initiative

MSU Foundation celebrated its highest giving

rehearsal facility to provide much-needed space for

for Student and Faculty Support with the

year in history with more than $80.3 million

the Famous Maroon Band and choral programs.

investiture of MSU’s 19th President Mark E.

raised during FY 2011.

The facility, built in part with gifts, aids in student

Keenum. The initiative, with a goal of $100

recruitment for the College of Education.

million, was launched to assist MSU as it works to prepare for further enrollment growth.

The first fully endowed faculty position in MSU’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences was established by Glover and Imogene Triplett. The Dr. Glover B. Triplett Endowed Chair in Agronomy

Beginning a new chapter

M

honors the longtime MSU faculty member.

The Seal Family Business Complex, a 52,000-square-foot addition to McCool Hall, opened as part of the MSU College of Business.

SU Foundation marked its 50th anniversary as total funds raised for MSU, through the organization, more than $1 billion.

As the MSU Foundation turns the page on its first 50 years, the organization’s story continues to bring more maroon and white moments to the university. Each year truly builds on the success of the previous

Generous gifts from a host of donors, as well

year, as the students, faculty and programs of Mississippi State continue to reap the benefits of

as the cornerstone contribution from the Seal

endowments and a steady stream of annual support from alumni and friends.

family, made the facility enhancement possible.

From our humble beginning in 1962 as the Development Foundation, into the full-service MSU Foundation, faithful contributors have provided MSU with the margin of excellence needed to fulfill

Waterfowl- and wetlands-related teaching,

the dream of Colvard and the founding fathers. Steadfast university leadership and volunteers have

research and service were greatly enhanced

shaped our efforts for half a century.

at MSU as James C. Kennedy established the

The MSU Foundation gratefully acknowledges the unwavering support of the many contributors

Kennedy Chair in Waterfowl and Wetlands

over the course of Mississippi State’s history. Through volunteerism and financial support, you

Conservation in the university’s College of

preserved the Bulldog traditions that make our institution special, and allowed us to further the

Forest Resources.

university’s mission of teaching, research and service.

The future of Mississippi State University and the history of the MSU Foundation remain forever

5

Alumnus Bobby Shackouls and his wife, Judy,

intertwined. In the next 50 years, the MSU Foundation will continue to work to keep pace with the

created a $10 million endowment transforming

growing needs of the university as Mississippi State strives to become one of the nation’s best

MSU’s honors program into the Judy and Bobby

education, research and service institutions.

Shackouls Honors College for the university’s

As we continue our quest to succeed beyond tomorrow, just as the chartering members of our

most talented students.

foundation paved the way, we pledge to remain good stewards of your investments in the future of

5

Mississippi State University. With your continued support, we will move Mississippi State forward with much-needed funds for scholarships for talented students, new and improved facilities, endowed positions for our acclaimed faculty, and enhancements for the university’s global programs.

The MSU Foundation is ready for the challenge of a rising generation. •

mississippi state A lumnus

13

30

CVM honors first graduates

YEARS

By Bob Ratliff | Photos By Beth Newman Wynn & Tom Thompson

I

n 1981, the first 25 graduates of MSU’s

organizer, said. “The gala celebrated the original class and our

College of Veterinary Medicine received their

entire faculty and staff who have made each graduating class

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees. In

possible through the years.”

October 2011, 19 of them returned to campus to participate in the Pegasus Gala, a series

graduates and the founding dean and faculty set the tone for

of events celebrating the 30th anniversary of

CVM for decades to come.

their graduation.

14

spring 2012

Kent Hoblet, dean of the college, said the first group of

“The contributions our graduates have made to their

“It was a landmark decision to bring a

communities, to science, to government, and to the military are

veterinary college to Mississippi,” Julie Burt,

extraordinary, and our first graduating class set a great example

CVM clinical services coordinator and gala

for others to follow,” he said. “There are only 28 colleges of

veterinary medicine in the U.S., so it’s pretty special to be one of those schools, but of course we think our program is pretty special on its own.”

The events were held over the Oct. 14–15 weekend and began with the Human-Animal Bond Lecture Series sponsored by Nestle Purina. Other events included a VIP dinner, tailgating, tours, and a program hosted by special guest Jack Hanna.

Hanna is director emeritus of the Columbus (Ohio) Zoo and Aquarium and host of the nationally syndicated TV programs Jack Hanna’s Into the Wild and Jack Hanna’s Wild Countdown.

He entertained Starkville-area school children with a show featuring exotic animals in the CVM auditorium. Hanna also hosted a show for guests at a Gala dinner held at MSU’s Hunter Henry Center. His visit was made possible through the support of Nutramax Labs Inc. The company researches, develops and markets high-quality health supplements for humans, animals and plants. Dr. Todd Henderson of the MSU-CVM class of 1992 is the company’s CEO. The weekend activities also included the unveiling of plans for a courtyard garden honoring the first graduating class. Following the unveiling, attendees enjoyed food and fellowship at a tailgate party before MSU’s football game against the University of

“The contributions our graduates have made to their communities, to science, to government, and to the military are extraordinary, and our first graduating class set a great example for others to follow.”

— Kent Hoblet, dean of MSU’s CVM

South Carolina.

“We are so proud of our

CVM CLASS OF 1981 Dr. Gary Allen Dr. Charles Blakeslee, Jr. Dr. Jerry Bounds, Jr. Dr. Karyl Buddington Dr. Mitchell Clemmer Dr. Janet Welter Dr. Robert Dennis Dr. Johnny Geotes Dr. LaJoyce Hathorn

Dr. Joel Josey Dr. Larry Kerr Dr. Joe Martin Dr. Thomas Pickering Dr. Lowell Rogers Dr. Thomas Smith Dr. Marlon Springer, Jr. Dr. Sylvia Stewart Dr. Cheryl Stroud

Dr. John Sullivan Dr. Sue Thomson Dr. Cory Langston Dr. John Hays III Dr. Lawrence Myers Dr. Mark Healey Dr. Lane Corley

founding faculty and first graduating class,” Dean Hoblet said. “They led the way for all those who came after them, and we were pleased to see them back here on campus.”

Donations will be accepted for the Class of 1981 courtyard garden.

For more information, contact Keith Gaskin at 662-325-3815 or kgaskin@ foundation.msstate.edu. • MSU President Mark Keenum and anniversary special guest Jack Hanna, director emeritus of the Columbus (Ohio) Zoo and Aquarium. mississippi state A lumnus

15

Mitchell Memorial’s unique collections house invaluable treasures

By Allison Matthews | Images courtesy of Mitchell Memorial Library

F

or thousands of students and other

as University Archives. Among others are the Ulysses S. Grant

patrons, Mississippi State’s Mitchell

Presidential Collection, the Congressional and Political Research

Memorial Library offers the gamut

Center, the Charles H. Templeton, Sr. Music Museum and the John

of resources anyone would expect at

Grisham Room. CHARM, which is an acronym for Consortium

a major university. But many do not

for the History of Agricultural and Rural Mississippi, is also housed

realize what vast treasures housed as

at the library to preserve the state’s rich agricultural heritage. The

part of MSU Libraries’ rare and eclectic

library’s digital collections reflect efforts to support teaching,

collections are right at their fingertips.

service and research by developing projects that provide greater

Traditionally referred to as “Special Collections,” the distinctive

access to unique university holdings.

resources now span the library physically, from top to bottom floors, as well as have an ever-expanding digital presence. The variety of materials represents the university’s broad reach and diverse constituencies.

Holdings range from historical documentation of life in the rural South to the modern collection of a nationally renowned theatrical costume designer, Myrna Colley-Lee. From Mississippi’s

Special Collections

E

ach year, the library assists countless researchers from MSU and other locations. Mattie Abraham, manuscripts coordinator for the Special Collections department, says whether library patrons are students

or faculty visiting the library at its physical location or whether they

own former U. S. Sen. John C. Stennis and former U. S. Rep. G.V.

are remote patrons who need assistance, library staff members are

“Sonny” Montgomery to bestselling author John Grisham, the

eager to help.

library is the repository for collections that represent not only jewels

“Our researchers work on books, genealogy and family history,

of Mississippi, but assets of national significance. A “cherry on the

theses and dissertations, documentaries and other films, and

sundae” for the library is the collection of Civil War general and

many other projects,” Abraham says. “Many of our researchers are

United States President Ulysses S. Grant’s papers and memorabilia,

distance researchers, like Emma Folwell of the U.K. who recently

illustrating that Mitchell Memorial’s unparalleled resources serve as a

came to do research in our political papers for her dissertation on

point of pride for the university and for the state.

modern conservatism in Mississippi.”

In fact, the name “Special Collections” really represents

Abraham cites Giselle Roberts of Australia as another recent

one department within the university’s many collections. It

researcher. “Nine of our collections are featured in her book,

encompasses manuscripts, Mississippiana and rare books, as well

Confederate Belle. She is currently working on another book that

16

spring 2012

will feature some of our materials,” Abraham says, noting that Roberts did not visit the campus location but received assistance from Mitchell Memorial staff entirely by email.

Last year, the Special Collections department

“Professional writers to arm-chair researchers find a great deal of fascination from viewing papers and memorabilia in the library’s collections.” ­ Sid Salter, — MSU journalistin-residence

Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station.

More than 650 collections of papers on individuals, families and organizations are contained within the department. The manuscripts document Mississippi and the South from the early

assisted researchers working on a segment for

19th century to the present, offering a wealth of rich historical

the “History Detectives” television show and also

materials for both research and general enjoyment.

seeking visual materials for the movie “The Help.”

Within Special Collections, Mississippiana

Some of the collections include papers by contemporary Mississippi journalists, such as Bill Minor and Sid Salter. Salter, a statewide

comprises published materials by and about

columnist and former Perspectives editor with the Clarion-Ledger,

Mississippi and Mississippians. Rare books, state

joined the university staff in 2011 as journalist-in-residence. With his

documents, genealogical materials, and subject

office in the library, he now works with the unique collections.

files on Mississippi topics are included.

“What separates Special Collections is that these materials are

University Archives, which is housed in the

not available anywhere other than this institution,” Salter says. He is

Congressional and Political Research Center on

charged with assisting in the acquisition of additional manuscripts,

Mitchell Memorial’s first floor, contains materials

as well as collections that would become part of the Congressional

that document Mississippi State University’s

and Political Research Center.

more than 130-year history. Publications by

Papers and memorabilia from author John Grisham and

faculty, staff and students, as well as presidents’

costume designer Myrna Colley-Lee are also part of the

papers are among the files. Additionally, maps,

manuscripts collections, some of which are on display in the

blueprints, visual media, oral histories, alumni

library’s John Grisham Room.

records and extensive subject files are housed,

Salter says from professional writers to “arm-chair researchers,”

as well as records of the Mississippi State

many people find a great deal of fascination from viewing papers

University Extension Service and the Mississippi

and memorabilia in the library’s collections.

Above, clockwise from left: Music poster, Grant portrait, sideline pass from 1940 Egg Bowl, Mississippi Press Association members Mary Cain, Hazel Brannon Smith and Lois Anderson, and postcard image of Great Southern Hotel, Meridian

mississippi state A lumnus

17

He notes that Dean of Libraries Frances Coleman, who was appointed head of all library units at the land-grant university in 1997, has provided critical leadership during a period when the library’s collections have greatly expanded.

novel – a baseball-themed novel called Calico Joe – is set for an April 2012 release.

The room, which opened in 1998, is often chosen as the location for many university special events.

“Dean Coleman is a visionary leader, who is always looking ahead. She has positioned MSU Libraries as a leader in technology, a strong collaborator with other libraries in the state, and she ensures the library meets standards of excellence so that it is not only an outstanding library today, but for the future, as well,” Salter says.

“Old memories fail, people’s recollections differ over time,

Congressional and Political Research Center

A

nchored by the collections of former U.S. Sen. John C. Stennis and U.S. Rep. G. V. “Sonny” Montgomery, the Congressional and Political Research Center was founded

but the files found in the collections throughout the library

in 1999. Numerous other legislators and staff intimately

are very accurate,” Salter observes.

involved with political processes have been added to the ever-growing collections. Among the papers are those of

John Grisham Room

T

Chip Pickering, Mike Espy, Charles Griffin, and Tennessee’s

he John Grisham Room contains displays from the extensive collection of papers and materials

U. S. Rep. Marsha Blackburn.

The library established the center with the major goal of

donated to the university by the author who

developing a repository of quality, significant collections

is also an MSU alumnus. In addition to the

in the field of politics and government from sources at

papers from Grisham’s literary career, his collection includes

all levels. The center also provides access via the Internet

materials from his service as 7th District representative in the

to researchers interested in materials on a broad range of

Mississippi Legislature 1983-90.

historically significant events and issues at the local, state,

Visitors to the Grisham Room can view literary

national and international levels. Subjects include civil

manuscripts for the author’s novels, correspondence with

rights, wars, women’s history, foreign relations, agricultural

editors, research materials, and other memorabilia. Fan

history, government functions, elections and major political

mail, reviews and articles, and even publicity materials

issues, as well as various

give insight into the process of producing

social issues. The

bestselling novels.

Photo by Megan Bean

After 24 best-selling novels and his

ongoing oral history

there are currently more than 275

program, portions of

worldwide. His latest

Above: A line of Grisham novels from the John Grisham Room exhibit

spring 2012

center also operates an

non-fiction The Innocent Man book, million John Grisham books in print

18

other economic and

which are available to researchers.

Rough draft of John Grisham’s novel The Associate, 2008

Below: Grant’s family Bible

Ulysses S. Grant Collection

W

related to Grant’s

hen the Ulysses S. Grant

military career and

Association selected MSU’s Mitchell

presidency, as well as

Memorial Library as home for the

papers from some of

U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant

Grant’s contemporaries,

Collection, some noted the irony of the former Union

make up the most

general’s papers being housed at a southern university.

complete collection

“The University of Tennessee has three collections from

of Grant material in

U.S. presidents that were Tennesseans, but we are the only

the nation. Some of

other SEC university that has presidential papers,” says

the documents are

Michael Ballard.

originals, but most of

With more than 28 years of service at Mitchell Memorial, Ballard wears several hats at the library, including coordinator

“We are the only other SEC university that has presidential papers.”

—Michael Ballard, university archivist

the collection consists of copies of every

of the Congressional and Political Research

known letter that Grant

Center, university archivist, and associate editor

wrote and received.

of the Ulysses S. Grant Publications.

“Becoming the host for this collection was

Ballard remarks that the archivists and historians

really great for the university and great for the

who have the privilege of

state. There is a lot of prestige in presidential

working with the Grant papers

papers, and I think it has enlightened a lot

and other collections “are

of people across the country that Mississippi

having a ball.”

has come a long way, and we don’t look back,”

Referring back to the Stennis papers, Ballard explains that reading letters, legislation, and even personal family

Ballard says.

Ballard says he has spent his career and

history of the political leader allows researchers to see

his preceding student years with long-time

American history unveiled right before their eyes as they

colleague and his former professor John F.

explore the materials.

Marszalek, who retired from MSU as Giles

“There is just documentation of so much,” he says. “It’s amazing.”

Distinguished Professor Emeritus in history.

A nationally renowned Civil War historian, Marszalek now serves as executive director and managing editor for the Ulysses S. Grant Association, which made Mitchell Memorial Library the home of its vast Grant collection in 2008.

The collection was previously housed at Southern Illinois University.

Correspondence, photographs, memorabilia, books, and other documents

Charles H. Templeton, Sr. Music Museum

T

he Charles H. Templeton, Sr. Music Museum is located on Mitchell Memorial’s 4th floor.

Visitors can step back in time to an era when many types of American musical influence

came together to form the distinctive sounds of ragtime in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The collection showcases more than 200 period musical instruments, 13,000 records and 22,000 pieces of sheet music.

Stephen Cunetto, library administrator of systems, says the late Charles H. Templeton, Sr. was a Starkville

Ulysses S. Grant

mississippi state A lumnus

19

businessman who loved the ragtime genre and combined

“Quite a large number of people use the collection itself as

business and music during a 40-year period. Templeton

a research tool when they are looking for materials for their

amassed one of the largest collections of instruments,

repertoires. Many performers want to see what pieces they can

recordings, and sheet music in the country and donated this

discover that they haven’t played before,” Cunetto explains.

collection to the university in 1987. The collection moved to

“During the Templeton Ragtime Jazz Festival, we’re

its home in the library in 2006.

able to promote the music genre itself, but it also helps in

Most of the music and instruments Templeton collected

promoting the collection at this university. We want people to

are circa 1895 to 1930. In describing his fascination and love

understand that this is a living collection, and by that I mean

for ragtime music, the late Templeton once explained that

it’s not just sitting in a vault somewhere.

ragtime and the musical instruments of the era were from

We want it to be used by historians and

a time period in history when music was rapidly changing

musicians, as well as everyday people who

and evolving, with significant invention and development.

love music,” Cunetto says.

Templeton once said, “Music is a language which has no barriers and has its own power. It creates moods for funerals and weddings, churches, victories in war, and romance.”

Mitchell Memorial continues to celebrate the love of ragtime with the annual Charles Templeton Ragtime Jazz Festival.

CHARM collection

A

nother fascinating collection housed at Mitchell Memorial is CHARM, the Consortium

“There certainly are a wide variety of people who come to

for the History of Agricultural and Rural

the festival, from renowned performers who play throughout

Mississippi. Hundreds of the state’s farm

the country and the world to attendees who just love the

families were featured during the mid

ragtime and jazz music. A lot of musicians enjoy attending,”

1950s through early 1960s on a “Farm

says Cunetto, who also serves as the festival’s coordinator.

Family of the Week” segment for WLBT-

Cunetto says the festival draws nationally known

TV in Jackson. Scripts and photographs

ragtime jazz artists and the event helps promote the unique

used during the program were donated by

Templeton collection.

producer Howard Langfitt. The collateral

Above: Artwork from sheet music in the Charles H. Templeton, Sr. Music Museum 20

spring 2012

“We want it to be used by historians and musicians, as well as everyday people who love music.”

—Stephen Cunetto, library administrator of systems

for a former television segment are now preserved and continue to document the roles of agriculture, forestry and rural life in Mississippi.

Established in 2002, CHARM includes an array of

rural life by the Agriculture Network Information Center,

documents and artifacts in numerous collections, such

a section of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National

as the Lenoir Family Plantation Records, the Fernwood

Agricultural Library.

Lumber Collection, and the Todd A. Herring Collection,

More than 10,000 digital items from 39 collections

which extensively documents Mississippi and Louisiana

in the CHARM database are available online at charm.

plantation culture and history.

msstate.edu.

The collection is available for teaching, learning and research, and individuals compiling information for their family histories have found it particularly helpful. Access to the materials is available online through the CHARM digital database.

In 2005, the CHARM project was designated a site for Southern regional

Above: Butter box stencil from Oktibbeha County dairy farm

Access

C

unetto says Mississippi State Libraries under the leadership of Frances Coleman, dean of libraries, has prioritized access to their unique collections.

The process for digitizing collections is ongoing

so that a vast amount of the materials are available literally at the fingertips of any Internet user.

For more information, visit MSU Libraries online at http://library.msstate.edu/. Online visitors can peruse resources,

agricultural

find staff contact information, and find out how to donate

history and

unique materials to the collections. •

Top center and right: Letterhead titles from the Todd A. Herring Collection, and photo-collage of the Noxubee County Club for the 1917 Reveille mississippi state A lumnus

21

Photo by Megan Bean

Global connections:

University forms International Institute

By Harriet Laird

T

o be successful, a clear vision is a must for any individual, small group, sizeable organization, or

in funding and decentralized priorities have prompted campus

multi-faceted institution. It’s a path for enriching

leaders to take a fresh look at becoming a more active leader

and expanding opportunities and improving

across the continents.

internal functions and external possibilities.

One major component of Mississippi State University’s vision

“If we look now at the international funding arena, there are tremendous opportunities related to global activities and events.

is to become a “leading public research university that is globally

With one of the university’s major goals to be a ‘Top 50’ university, we

aware and involved,” and this has led to the creation of the MSU

have to demonstrate that we are very active beyond our borders to

International Institute.

accomplish this,” Mikel said.

Led by Associate Vice President Benjy Mikel, who also is the

For the dream to become reality, Mikel lists several components

institute’s executive director, the newly formed, all-encompassing

that are necessary for climbing the ladder to MSU’s ultimate

program has been developed to focus and organize international

recognition as being internationally immersed.

academic, research and service activities carried out by Mississippi State.

22

While MSU has a strong history of global involvement, changes

spring 2012

“First of all, we are trying to make sure that our academic, research and service elements are linked and aren’t silos that just look at one

another. When you look at internationally

Research and Extension Center works with an

Montreal School of Audiology and several

successful universities, they include links

International Rice Leadership Development

other research and service organizations in

between all three,” he said, explaining that it’s his

Program sponsored by the Rice Foundation.

the areas of aging, blindness and low vision,

job to see and develop these connections.

The effort involves growing rice exports in

and/or deafness and hearing impairment

Mexico.

to submit a proposal entitled Self-Stigma in

Mikel also is adamant that MSU’s international activities be faculty driven,

• Fulbright scholar Jane Greenwood of the

Older Adults with Sensory Impairment.

• Merrill Warkentin of the Department

identifying this core group as the one which

School of Architecture is working in Armenia

should be “most engaged” in these efforts.

on the cultural identity of

of Management and

“I certainly see the institute as a unit that

the country’s vernacular

Information Systems

supports faculty and departments, and we are

architecture that has been

is conducting several

looking at how we can help them identify global

especially impacted by the

research projects which

opportunities. Whether it’s a research grant

Soviet regime.

address international

program, academic program, or work with such

• Jerry Belant of the

Greenwood

and cross-cultural issues in information

Warkentin

things as memorandums of agreement, we want

Department of Wildlife,

to make faculty aware and help save them some

Fisheries and Aquaculture works extensively

systems security. Working with scholars in

time in identifying options,” he explained.

on global mammal and carnivore conservation

Europe and the U.S., he has analyzed data

issues and recently co-published an article on

collected from employees of a large global

friendly” international concept, MSU professors

worldwide mammal extinction risk. He is chair

company with offices and facilities in more

and instructors have continued to carry the

of the International Union for Conservation

than 30 countries to assess the role that

Mississippi State name into other countries

and Nature/Species Survival Commission/

sanctions and deterrence play in preventing

and partner with foreign researchers and

Small Carnivore Specialist Group, an entity of

noncompliant workplace behavior in the

academicians from abroad. Some of these recent

more than 100 scientists from 30 countries, and

area of computer security.

projects include:

is charged with assessing the conservation status

• Keith Moser and Jack Jordan, both of

of 165 carnivore species worldwide.

While working to cultivate a more “faculty

the Department of Classical and Modern

• The Egyptian government is supporting a

• Sandra Orozco of the Department of Finance and Economics is focusing on the labor market effects of migration and

Languages & Literatures,

research graduate student

return migration of Mexican workers in

participated in a United

who is conducting fish health

the U.S. Preliminary findings suggest that

Nations literacy project in

work with Attila Karsi of

after adjusting for education, occupation,

Mauritius with 2008 Nobel

the College of Veterinary

and a host of other individual factors, legal

Laureate L.M.G. Le Clezio.

Medicine’s Basic Science

immigrants earn about a 10 percent wage

• Mark Welch of the Department of Biological

Moser

Department. Henry Wan of this same department is

Karsi

premium in the production sector and a 6 percent wage premium in the service

Sciences has studied the population biology and

collaborating with Chinese scientists to study

sector compared to otherwise equal illegal

conservation genetics of six

the spread of H5N1 influenza

immigrants. Further evidence suggests

endemic Caribbean iguanas

virus from birds to humans.

that return migrants possess a considerable

• The Rehabilitation

in collaboration with scientists working in five

Research and Training

Caribbean countries and

Center on Blindness and

the United Kingdom.

• Tim Walker of the Delta

Welch

Low Vision collaborated with the University of

advantage in marketable skills.

With so much current activity by MSU faculty, another important step to Mikel in Wan

building MSU’s new institute is “bringing everything international under one umbrella.”

mississippi state A lumnus

23

“There may be a lot of our students who never have the opportunity to go outside the U.S.,” he said, “but at least we can give them the chance to understand–to think internationally.”

– Benjy Mikel, Associate Vice President, MSU International Institute

Photos by Megan Bean

MSU graduate student Ademola Olandunjoye of Nigeria, above right, is the 2011 StudyMississippi International Student of the Year. He is congratulated for receiving the organization's inaugural award by faculty adviser Rama Nannapaneni. Photo by Beth Newman Wynn

Upon encouragement from MSU President

to the MSU campus and, at the same time,

Mark E. Keenum and with a “Top 5” strategic

providing international experiences abroad for

plan goal of being more globally competitive, an

current students.

for it, but the payoff can be huge.”

“Another part of what we truly want to do is get more of our students studying abroad and, if they can’t go oversees for whatever reason, then

increased emphasis has been placed on uniting

And it doesn’t end, according to Mikel, with

available resources and dedicated people in one

recruitment. He said once international students

we can inject more internationalization in the

cohesive unit.

are here, there is a responsibility to engage them

classroom curriculum,” Mikel said.

“We already have a lot of international activities and people in these areas, but there needs to be more synergy. We’re taking some

in the campus culture and in more student activities.

“There is a tremendous opportunity to look

He explained that there are many courses across campus where international topics can be discussed and that this brings a

baby steps and some giant leaps in this, with the

at how we can better recruit and work with

wealth of understanding to those in the

ultimate goal of pulling everything together to

undergraduate international students. We

classroom.

better support faculty and staff,” he said.

have current efforts along these lines, but we’re

“There may be a lot of our students who never

still formulating how our major emphasis is

have the opportunity to go outside the U.S.,” he

reputable institute of this type comes the urgent

going to be on this,” he said, adding, “We’ve

said, “but at least we can give them the chance to

objective of recruiting new international students

also got to understand how we’re going to pay

understand–to think internationally.” •

Along with the urgency in establishing a

24

spring 2012

Alumnus Magazine is now easier to view on the web.

Visit www.msstate.edu/web/alumnus to read the new Issuu-based format.

mississippi state A lumnus

25

Campus

NEWS

12 SPRING

ALUMNUS

English department announces Hargrove literary contests widely recognized former

A

honors over a long MSU career that

member of Mississippi

began in 1970.

continuing her lifelong mission of

American and British poetry and

service to the university.

drama, and Southern literature,

She is an authority in 20th century

State’s English faculty is

among other areas. She has written

Nancy D. Hargrove of Starkville, a William L. Giles Professor Emerita,

books on the poetry of T.S. Eliot,

is funding a twice-yearly literary

Sylvia Plath, and numerous essays on

contest organized through the

the works of major literary figures.

Jabberwock Review is a literary

university’s national literary journal, Jabberwock Review.

Her gift will support a poetry contest each spring semester and a

Hargrove A North Carolina native and

journal published semi-annually

by MSU students and faculty that features poetry, fiction, and

fiction competition each fall. The

University of South Carolina

nonfiction from around the world.

winner of the Nancy D. Hargrove

doctoral graduate, Hargrove received

For more, visit www.jabberwock.org.

Editors’ Prize will receive $500.

numerous teaching and related

msstate.edu. •

Dunaway named arts and sciences associate dean Mississippi State faculty

A

programs, including curriculum

member with an

issues, student advising and awards,

extensive background in

and scholarships.

criminal justice and sociology is the

With administrative offices in

new associate dean in the College of

Allen Hall, the college provides the

Arts and Sciences.

majority of the university’s general education courses. Among its separate

As associate dean of academic affairs and student services in the

14 departments are nearly two dozen

university’s largest academic unit,

academic degree programs, more than

Gregory Dunaway coordinates

5,200 students, and some 350 full-time

all aspects of the undergraduate

26

spring 2012

Dunaway

faculty members.

Former Gov. Winter

leads annual MLK program T he Mississippi governor

chaired the Southern Regional

considered to be among

Education Board, Appalachian

the most progressive state

Regional Commission, Southern

leaders of the 20th century was

Growth Policies Board, and

the keynote speaker in January for

Commission on the Future of the

Mississippi State’s annual Martin

South, among others.

After leaving office, he was

Luther King Jr. Unity Breakfast.

instrumental in founding the

A Grenada native who held

William Winter Institute for Racial

the state’s highest office 1980-84, Winter gained national recognition

Winter

for leading efforts that resulted

Reconciliation at the University of Mississippi, from which he holds

in groundbreaking passage of

the President and Diversity and

undergraduate and law degrees.

education reform legislation.

Equity Programs, along with the

The Profile in Courage Award

President’s Commission on the

of the John F. Kennedy Library

Status of Minorities.

Foundation is among many lifetime

MSU President Mark E. Keenum gave the program’s welcome and Starkville Mayor Parker Wiseman

Prior to holding the state’s

honors and recognitions he has received.

made special presentations. The

highest elective office, Winter

student Black Voices gospel choir

served as a member of the

also performed.

Mississippi Legislature, state tax

career as an attorney with the

collector, state treasurer, and

Jackson firm of Jones, Walker,

activities were sponsored and

lieutenant governor. Over a long

Waechter, Poitevent, Carrere &

organized by MSU’s offices of

public service career, he also has

Denegre. •

“The first thing on my agenda is to

coordinator of the sociology and

Additionally, he has been a research

learn as much as I can about individual

criminology programs, director of

fellow at the land-grant institution’s

departments,” Dunaway said. “I

the criminal justice and corrections

nationally recognized Social Science

also want to work with academic

certificate program and director of

Research Center.

coordinators to improve academic

sociology graduate studies. Several

advising and services for students and

years ago, he also served as the college’s

Maryland graduate who also holds

down the road, would like to assist in

interim associate dean.

master’s and doctoral degrees

The campus event and its

developing and enhancing programs

The Thomas Bailey Professor of

Winter continues a long legal

Dunaway, a Loyola University

from the University of Cincinnati,

Sociology and former sociology

succeeds Dave Breaux, who

department head, he was

recently became graduate school

career of more than two decades,

instrumental in creating the state’s

dean at the University of Louisiana

Dunaway has served as undergraduate

only criminology degree program.

at Lafayette. •

within departments.”

During a distinguished campus

mississippi state A lumnus

27

Campus

NEWS

12 SPRING

ALUMNUS

Martin Center administrator honored for advocacy Funded through grants from the Mississippi Arts

A case manager at Mississippi State’s T.K. Martin Center for Technology and Disability is being recognized for her

Commission and other sources, EXPRESS Yourself

efforts to improve the lives of people with disabilities.

has aided numerous persons in communicating and

Judy Duncan recently was honored as the Advocate of the Year by the Starkville Commission on Disability

expressing themselves who otherwise wouldn’t have had opportunities to do so.

Duncan expressed appreciation for the recognition,

for her role with a center program that helps people with significant physical disabilities to become artists.

The EXPRESS Yourself program works to unlock

especially since it helps bring additional awareness to the Martin Center and the EXPRESS Yourself program. The

the “inner artist” in those with cerebral palsy and other

real reward comes from working with dozens of artists

disabilities, which limit movement and communication.

over the years, she added.

“I believe everyone has wonderful things to say,” she

Program volunteers serve as “trackers,” developing communication with the participants and acting as their

explained. “I feel fortunate to help some people unlock

arms and hands to paint the canvases.

their gifts inside of them.”

MSU receives $3.7 million education grant to aid high-need schools major U.S. Department

A

than $3 million to be distributed over

the program is its distance-learning

of Education award to

the remaining four years.

structure. All of the classes are

of Education will aid in recruiting and

goal will be to train 125 Mississippi

training new middle school teachers

teachers and establish a self-sustaining

from some of the state’s poorest, most

program.

Mississippi State’s College

rural areas.

The department’s recent five-year

28

spring 2012

During that time, the two-pronged

The Transition to Teaching program specifically recruits

provided online, beginning with the summer of 2012.

Prior to entering the degree program, participants must take the state licensure examination in middle grades content knowledge.

The middle school alternate

Transition to Teaching grant for the

mid-career professionals, as well

Teacher Education for Rural Middle

as recent graduates with degrees

route degree program will be

Schools (TERMS) program is designed

outside of education. It also assists

available to anyone eligible, and

to provide an alternative route for those

participants to become teachers

special incentives will be offered

interested in teaching in rural middle

through alternative certification

through the TERMS program to

schools. The university has received

routes and helps place them in high-

match interested new teachers with

$446,893 for the first year, with more

need schools. A unique feature of

high-need schools in Mississippi.

Judy Duncan of MSU’s T.K. Martin Center, works with Thalamus Brown, who has cerebral palsy, to help him paint in the EXPRESS Yourself program.

Duncan holds an MSU master’s degree in

Duncan, along with fellow EXPRESS Yourself tracker Laurie Craig, are organizers of a permanent

counselor education from MSU. She also is a

art gallery at the Martin Center. Additionally, they

paralegal studies graduate of Mississippi University

collaborate with other locations to showcase the works.

for Women. •

These incentives include a $5,000

is associate dean of the College of

“There is a recognized need for a

scholarship and two years of

Education; Brenner, professor and

degree program such as this, because

mentoring after completion of

interim head of the curriculum,

of a teacher shortage, particularly in

the degree. TERMS participants

instruction and special education

rural areas,” Brenner said. “Many of

also will receive $5,000 worth of

department; Elder, associate professor

the school districts we are working

equipment for their classroom,

of educational psychology.

with are in the Delta.”

which will stay with the school.

A primary reason MSU

She said MSU will work with a

Scholarship recipients are required

received the TERMS grant was its

consortium of 19 school districts to

to teach in the schools for at least

administration of an earlier Transition

recruit and train new teachers. The

three years.

to Teaching program, which was

program targets individuals with roots

created three years ago for high school

in their local communities, making it

teachers.

a “homegrown” effort that encourages

As they enter the degree program, participants will be hired in a teaching position in fourth-

Well-documented needs of the state

teachers to remain in the area.

MSU’s TERMS grant is among

through eighth-grade classrooms.

and an established record of success

They may remain in those positions

with the Learning and Educating

30 national teacher training projects

after completing the degree.

through Alternative Programs were

funded this year. By the end of the five-

among major reasons the 133-year-old

year period, a total of nearly 4,800 new

Anastasia Elder are co-principal

land-grant institution’s education college

teachers are expected to be certified

investigators for the grant. Jayroe

received the grant.

throughout the country. •

Terry Jayroe, Devon Brenner and

mississippi state A lumnus

29

Campus

NEWS

12 SPRING

ALUMNUS

technology licensed for international energy market n innovative wastewater

A

technology enables wood producers

technology developed

to create value from what would

at Mississippi State is

otherwise not be used again.

market as part of a licensing

generated during production of

agreement with a Canadian

wood chips for power generation

company.

into oil for producing biofuels and

“This will convert wastewater

entering the international energy

a potential animal feed,” Hernandez

The university’s Office of Entrepreneurship and Technology

explained. “The integration of NFI

Transfer recently formed an

and MSU technologies will result in

agreement with Montreal-based

Hernandez

New Forest Industries to use

biofuel and bio-products.”

technology created by Rafael

Along with Hernandez and

Hernandez and Todd French,

French, Mark Zappi, now dean

associate professors in the Bagley

of the University of Louisiana-

College of Engineering’s Swalm

Lafayette’s College of Engineering,

School of Chemical Engineering.

also is a co-inventor of this fuel technology. They received funding

“This opportunity allows MSU researchers to implement unique

from the U.S. Department of

technology through a commercial

Energy with the goal of creating

venture that will provide a fuel

technology to find new methods of

product from sustainable sources,”

producing energy from alternative French

said Josh Jeanson, MSU’s licensing

sources.

The research and technology

associate. “This will also provide

generate an alternative fuel. The

a mechanism to build more

next phase for the company will

resulted from a scientific

relationships and technologies

include using the technology to

investigation by the university’s

through ongoing research.”

“optimize the process before wide-

Sustainable Energy Research

scale implementation happens,”

Center and the Swalm School to

Jeanson said.

find ways for creating additional

As part of the licensing agreement, New Forest Industries will build a commercial facility that

30 spring 2012 30 Alumnus SPRING 2012

more efficient generation of power,

Hernandez, whose research

energy products from sustainable

incorporates the MSU technology

specializes in biofuels and

sources, particularly waste

with other proprietary methods to

alternative energy, said the

products and biomass. •

Historian named 2011 Humanities Teacher of the Year An Ohio State University

ichard V. Damms is being recognized as the 2011

R

doctoral graduate, he has

Humanities Teacher

participated in several projects

of the Year by Mississippi State’s

designed to improve the quality of

College of Arts and Sciences and the

history education in Mississippi.

Mississippi Humanities Council.

These have included direction to the department’s Teaching

Presented annually at public and private institutions of higher learning

American History grant program

around the state, the award carries a

and service as editor-in-chief of

$500 honorarium and the responsibility

Mississippi History Now: The Online

to share humanities-based research in a

Damms

public setting with students, colleagues, and the community.

Damms, a history department

Journal of the Mississippi Historical Society.

Most recently, he has worked

faculty member since 1995,

with the Mississippi Department of

Macmillan, Dwight Eisenhower

specializes in American foreign

Education to revise the state’s U.S.

and the Romance and Reality

relations and 20th century U.S.

history curriculum.

of the Anglo-American ‘Special

political history. His current

Relationship’” was the title of the

research examines Anglo-

Kingdom, native who also

associate professor of history’s recent

American relations in the

graduated from the University of

presentation.

aftermath of the 1956 Suez crisis.

Durham. •

“Greeks and Romans: Harold

He is a Rotherham, United

student forestry group named best in nation All senior forestry majors, the 2011-

ississippi State’s student

the community, and the forestry

chapter of the Society of

program, among other criteria. Grala

12 officers include president Greg

American Foresters is

notes that service is one of the key

Bentley of Starkville, vice president

components in the chapter’s goals.

Jonathan Stoll of Columbus, secretary

M

once again the best in the nation. The chapter competed with 75 chapters nationally for the recognition.

“We are involved in several community projects including

David Ohlrich of Athens, Ala., and treasurer William Hunter of Brandon.

Habitat for Humanity, Adopt-A-

Founded in 1900, SAF is

championship win for the

Highway, and Project Learning

the world’s largest professional

28-member organization, placing in

Tree,” Grala said. “The chapter also

organization for foresters. Its 18,000

the top three over the last 11 years.

provides professional involvement

active members are engaged in a

Led by MSU associate forestry

for members including attendance

variety of programs to improve the

professor Robert Grala, the chapter

at professional meetings and guest

health, productivity and use of the

is judged on service to members,

speakers from the forest industry.”

nation’s forestlands. •

This is not the first national

mississippi stateSPRING A lumnus Alumnus 2012 3131

Campus

NEWS

12 SPRING

ALUMNUS

Day One student leaders leave positive impact on community As part of the 44 teams in the MSU Day One Leadership Community, the Happy Heroes led a book drive that collected more than 600 books, built two bookcases, and mentored children at the Happy Start Learning Center in Starkville. Students participating were, standing left to right, Michael Houston of Lyon; Tyler Howell of Orlando, Fla.; Joshua Mellott of Hoschton,Ga.; and sitting, Hannah Weisenberger and Ramsey Rankin, both of Clinton.

hen a group of five

W

contributed to the area in ways as

Mississippi State

diverse as the Starkville community

freshmen visited

itself. From helping build exercise

Happy Start Learning Center last fall,

areas for the local Boys and Girls

the preschool on Highway 182 had

Club to improving landscaping at

about 20 books.

the Oktibbeha County Humane

That’s not the picture the MSU

Society, students find ways to make

Day One Leadership team wanted

a difference in the community and

to see in a place where young

improve themselves.

their weekdays. Studies have shown

teamwork and leadership skills while

began the leadership program

children exposed to reading at early

contributing to worthy causes larger

as first-semester freshmen, they

ages perform better in school.

than themselves.

transformed during their time with

The college students wanted to help

Cade Smith, director of MSU’s

other group members. Even if they

give the children at the preschool and

Office of Student Leadership and

didn’t notice, others saw how their

their parents access to children’s books

Community Engagement, wants

shyness went away as they focused

and parenting materials.

students to get involved in leadership

on helping others.

During the fall semester, the

Alicia Barnes mentored the Happy

those around them as soon as they

Heroes, the group who built the

even converted a storage room at the

enroll at the land-grant university.

bookcases, held the book drive, and

“The community benefits in

mentored children at the preschool.

installed bookcases they built to hold

many ways,” Smith said. “Teams

As an employee of the Mississippi

more than 600 books they collected.

of students work with partners to

Child Care Resource and Referral

develop and deliver projects that

Network, housed at MSU Extension

invested 20 hours of time mentoring

bring new value to the organizations

and the university’s School of Human

kids at the center, reading to them,

and others who live in the area.”

Sciences, she knows the benefits for

Each of the five students also

assisting staff, and generally helping however they could.

In fact, since August MSU students in the Day One Leadership

the children and the students.

She smiled recently when

Community have contributed about

discussing how she has seen students

Community helps accomplish. Since

5,000 hours of community service

in her group change during the

2007, the student leadership program

in Starkville to about 30 different

semester.

has partnered with community

organizations.

That’s what the Day One Leadership

organizations to help students learn

spring 2012

training and opportunities to help

students organized book drives and center into a library. The students

32

For many of the students who

children spend significant parts of

Nearly 250 students have

“They’ve really become confident with each other,” she said. •

student entrepreneur finding ‘elevator’ to success esus J. Valdez knows two

chief operating officer of the company,

things about people who

Valdez travels to key events for the

can help his business--

music instrument industry.

J

they’re busy and need convincing.

A Mississippi State MBA graduate,

Along with helping sell units of the different guitar pedals

“I wanted it to sound like the first time I said it,” he added.

Gerald Nelson, who directs

Valdez’s interest in business and

with unique artistic designs, he

MSU’s Office of Entrepreneurship

marketing developed even before

recently took time to successfully

and Technology Transfer, said

he enrolled at the university as an

showcase his sales acumen at the

successful business leaders must

undergraduate. Now, he works as

2011 Elevator Pitch Competition,

possess many qualities and

a marketing research associate for

held by Collegiate Entrepreneurs’

characteristics. The ability to

MSU’s Thad Cochran Endowment for

Organization, in Fort Worth, Texas.

communicate a company’s product

Entrepreneurship.

He placed in the top six among 128

or service in the most succinct way

competitors.

is among the most important skills,

For the Pascagoula native, however, actually “doing” business

The Elevator Pitch helps prepare

he said.

“If you can’t boil it down to a

has proved quite different from

budding entrepreneurs for the

studying in the field.

“fast pitch”--a quick information

minute or two, you may not get

delivery persuasive enough to

the sale or the right meeting,” said

the campus’ then newly formed

convince venture capitalists or other

Nelson, who works with business

Entrepreneurship Center to hone his

professionals to take some type

leaders throughout the state.

experience in the field. The center

of positive action. Valdez and the

helps students, faculty and staff

other participants had 90 seconds to

Spears received first place honors

members interested in creating their

explain their business idea.

from the Mississippi Technology

Two years ago, he partnered with

Earlier this year, Valdez and

“I can speak, maybe, 200 words

Alliance’s business plan competition.

a minute,” said Valdez, discussing

The company also received financial

companies to help them prepare

his pitch prowess. “But, if you want

and other support valued at about

to enter the marketplace. For the

to add character and charisma, you

$10,000 from MSU’s Thad Cochran

novice entrepreneurs, the assistance

can’t speak as fast.”

Endowment for Entrepreneurship.

own businesses.

He worked with different

Competitors in the challenge

In addition to working with

accounting, logistics, and other areas

received scores based on content

The Juliet Collective and Cochran

necessary for success.

and pitch delivery. Judges

Endowment, Valdez takes courses

included venture capitalists and

toward a second bachelor’s degree,

entrepreneurs.

this time in psychology. He wants

included start-up planning,

That experience led Valdez to a partnership with Robbie Spears, a

MBA graduate Jesus J. Valdez, left, with Gerald Nelson, director of MSU’s Office of Entrepreneurship and Technology Transfer

to learn as much as possible about

senior interdisciplinary studies major

Valdez said his pitch for guitar

from Meridian, who created a high-

pedal products seemed like second

consumer behavior and why

end, custom-design guitar pedal

nature, even if he practiced dozens of

people have particular purchasing

company, The Juliet Collective. As

times in front of others and mirrors.

patterns. •

mississippi state A lumnus

33

Campus

NEWS

12 SPRING

ALUMNUS

Corinth High School Alumni Association honors Keenum ississippi State

He is the son of Charles and

President Mark E.

M

Shirley Keenum, now of Belzoni.

Keenum is Corinth

“This is a great honor, and it is

High School’s 2011 Distinguished

especially meaningful because I owe

Alumnus of the Year.

so much of my personal development

The university’s 19th chief

Keenum

to my experiences at Corinth High

executive was selected for the honor

School,” Keenum said. “Strong

as well as lifelong friendships made

by the Corinth High School Alumni

academics and my involvement as an

there. On the Corinth Warriors

Association. A 1979 CHS graduate,

athlete at CHS helped shape me into

football team, he played center and

he formally accepted the award in

who I am today.”

on the defensive line. He earned

October during halftime activities of

Keenum praised his alma mater

a football scholarship and played

the school’s home football game with

for the many important lessons

two years at Northeast Mississippi

Amory High School.

learned from teachers and coaches,

Community College. •

band director

honored with inaugural award M ississippi State Director

Lance said. “Her knowledge of the

ensemble, teaches methods classes

of Bands Elva Kaye

instruments and her demanding style

and assists with student-teacher

Lance is being honored

have challenged and supported me

supervision in the MSU music

throughout my career.”

department. Additionally, she

with the first Edythe McArthur Lance

Appointed 2002, Lance is the

Given by the Mississippi

first woman among eight Famous

adjudicator for concert and marching

Bandmasters Association during

Maroon Band directors in the

band events throughout the country.

its recent state clinic in Natchez, the

program’s more than 100-year-long

A 1976 MSU graduate and

honor is a memorial to the longtime

history. She also is the only female

former Famous Maroon Band

state band director who died in 2009.

serving currently as director of

member, Lance was a selection

It recognizes outstanding women in

bands at a Southeastern Conference

for Who’s Who and Hall of Fame

the field.

university.

as an undergraduate. She also is

“Edythe McArthur was my teacher, my mentor and my friend,”

34

spring 2012

serves regularly as a clinician and

Outstanding Director Award.

A music educator for the past 35 years, she also conducts the wind

a Southern Oregon University graduate. •

CAVS Extension

wins economic development honor he university’s Center

T

for Advanced Vehicular Systems Extension is a

major honoree of the Mississippi Economic Development Council.

The Canton-based office recently accepted the Community Economic Development Award for its work with Nissan at its auto assembly plant in central Mississippi. The

The project also is being

the coalition provided instruction

MEDC recognition specifically cited

submitted to the Southern Economic

through a three-phase curriculum:

the “Enhancing On-the-Job Problem

Development Council for regional

instrumentation and diagnostics,

Solving” training program.

competition.

problem-solving methodologies and

“MEDC is proud to honor this

CAVS Extension is a major unit

teaming topics.

outstanding community and the

of the Engagement and Outreach

Bagley faculty and researchers

people who have been involved in

Service at MSU’s Bagley College

trained students to use specialized

the planning and implementation

of Engineering, which developed

data-gathering equipment and

of this worthwhile project,”

and delivered the training program

analysis software. CAVS Extension

said council executive director

with CAVS Extension and Holmes

provided specialized problem-

Carol Hardwick. “We applaud

Community College, whose primary

solving training and spawned

their commitment to excellence

service area includes Central

projects, with ongoing coaching,

in moving their communities

Mississippi.

to solve chronic “live, on-the-job”

forward.”

In addition to more than 400

problems from students’ companies.

employees at Nissan’s Canton facility,

Holmes enhanced students’

of MSU’s commitment to service,

it provided skills training for the

communication, leadership and

said Clay Walden, CAVS Extension

vehicle manufacturers’ in-state

collaboration skills.

director and a research professor at

suppliers and related high-growth

the land-grant institution. “CAVS

companies.

The training program is an example

Extension and the university as a

As the training program began,

MSU's Clay Walden and Robert Sheely, center left and right, respectively, accept the Community Economic Development Award from MEDC board president Tom Troxler, left, and MEDC executive director Carol Hardwick. Troxler is executive director of the Rankin First Economic Development Authority.

The Mississippi Development Authority and Mississippi Department of Employment

whole are actively engaged in the

an initial analysis revealed that

Security shared oversight

lives of Mississippians,” he said. “This

only 5.8 percent of Mississippi’s

responsibilities for the 15-month

recent work with Nissan is a perfect

automotive workers possessed

project that was competitively

example of the assistance we can

higher-order skills--a rate well

funded by a $660,000 federal

provide, as well as the partnerships we

short of the 10.5 percent national

stimulus grant administered by

develop with employers in the state.”

average. To help overcome the gap,

MDES. •

mississippi state A lumnus

35

Alumni

NEWS

12 SPRING

ALUMNUS

Rouse

receives top alumni award ississippi State

M

University recently honored a 1962

industrial management graduate with its highest alumni honor. James J. “Jim” Rouse was named 2012 National Alumnus of the Year in February.

Born in Libertyville, Ill., Rouse was raised in Germantown, Tenn.

He came to Mississippi State as a freshman in 1958, where he was a member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity, president of the Interfraternity Council, and cadet

company. Rouse served in various

extends to both athletics and

brigade commander for the Army

positions at Exxon across the

academics. In 2009, he and Julia

ROTC. He was also listed in the

country in marketing, supply and

created an endowed professorship

Who’s Who Among Students in

transportation, human resources,

in the management department at

American Universities and Colleges.

and government relations. He

MSU. The couple has also funded a

retired as corporate vice president of

9,000-square-foot weight room in the

ExxonMobil in 2004.

Holliman Athletic Center, and donated

While in school, he met Julia Ann Bennett of Laurel, who was an elementary education student

a 1929 replica Model-A Roadster now

mater, Rouse currently serves as

used in campus events. Most recently,

Women. The Rouses married in

president of the MSU Foundation

a gift from the Rouses supports the

1962, and have two daughters, Lisa

board of directors, and is on the

strength and conditioning center in

and Connie.

boards of the Bulldog Club and

the Leo Seal Jr. Football Complex, now

Alumni Association. He also serves

under construction.

Rouse and his wife live in

Humble Oil and Refining Co.,

on the dean’s advisory board for the

which later became Exxon USA.

College of Business, and in 2010, the

Houston, Texas, and enjoy spending

He took two years of military leave

college honored him as its Alumnus

time with their six grandchildren,

to serve as a lieutenant in the U.S.

of the Year.

attending MSU athletic events, and

Army, and then later rejoined the

spring 2012

An active volunteer for his alma

at then-Mississippi College for

Upon graduation, Rouse joined

36

MSU President Mark E. Keenum, left, presents the Alumnus of the Year award to James J. “Jim” Rouse.

Rouse’s philanthropic support

traveling. •

Young honored for service to alumni chapter ew York, N.Y., Alumni

Young, who has served as

Group, where she helps underwrite

Chapter president

N

chapter president since 2008, has

directors and officers insurance

Ameilia R. Young was

been instrumental in spreading

for financial institutions and real

recently named the 2011 Outstanding

the maroon and white spirit in

estate partnerships. She is also a

Young Alumna by Mississippi State

the Big Apple. She organizes

member of the National Association

University. Young, who earned a

game watching parties, social

of Insurance Women and the

degree in risk management, insurance

events, and assists with the annual

Professional Liability Underwriting

and financial planning in 2006,

Mississippi in the Park celebration.

Society.

received the award at the annual

She also organizes the annual SEC

alumni awards banquet in February.

alumni touch football game and

the Alumni Association, Young

softball teams in conjunction with

volunteers with Forefront Church

ZogSports NYC.

and New York Cares, the city’s largest

A native of Maumelle, Ark., Young graduated summa cum laude, and was a member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor

In New York City, Young is an

Young

Apart from her service to

volunteer organization, running

Society and Golden Key International

assistant regional underwriting

volunteer programs for 1,200

Honor Society at MSU. She was also a

manager with the Chartis

nonprofits, city agencies and public

member of Delta Gamma Sorority.

Insurance Executive Liability

schools. •

Distinguished Service

Award winners recognized F our alumni were honored

board of directors, and served as

of Mountain

as the 2011 Distinguished

president for both the Oktibbeha and

Air Products

Service Award winners

Lee chapters.

and served as

an industrial risk

at the Alumni Awards Banquet in

A 1998 alumnus served as the

February. Chosen for their years

driving force behind revitalizing the

of service and dedication to the

Alcorn County Chapter. Christopher

MSU Alumni Association, these

E. “Chris” Carson of Corinth is

Robert P. “Patrick” White of Houston,

individuals represent the most

currently president of the chapter.

Texas, for his service in the role of

excellent alumni volunteers.

He is an office manager for a retail

chapter president. White, a 1990

grocery chain.

communication graduate, is an

Tupelo native Betty Latimer Black was awarded for her service to the

John F. “Jack” D’Arcy was honored

insurance account manager.

Finally, the association honored

2011 Distinguished Service Award winners, left to right, White, D’Arcy, Carson and Black.

account executive with LSI Industries,

Lee County and Oktibbeha County

for his work with the Atlanta, Ga.,

Inc. in Houston. He was instrumental

chapters. Black, who graduated

Alumni Chapter. D’Arcy, a 1964

in bringing an M-State license plate

in 1974 with a degree in music

engineering graduate, has been

to Texas, with proceeds benefitting

education, is a former national

involved with the chapter since

prospective high school students in

president for the Alumni Association

1962. Now retired, he was owner

Texas who wish to attend MSU. •

mississippi state A lumnus

37

Alumni

NEWS

12 SPRING

ALUMNUS

2012 College

Alumni of the Year architectural studies and an emphasis

E

enforcement, wildlife and fisheries.

and community accomplishments.

Sciences – Newsome earned a

worked for Public Broadcast Service

These individuals truly represent the

master’s degree in animal science

(PBS), and is currently vice president

mission and values of Mississippi

in 1985, and a doctoral degree in

for the media operations center and

State around the state, nation and

nutrition and agricultural economics

engineering. She also oversees the

world. The 2012 College Alumni of

in 2001. He also holds a bachelor’s

PBS media library, which includes

the Year were named in February.

degree in food and resource

the Library of Congress contractual

economics from the University of

agreement.

ach year, outstanding alumni are recognized for their personal, professional

Larry E. Castle, College of

Dr. James E. “Jim” Newsome,

in digital visualization, design and

College of Agriculture and Life

technology. Since 2001, Allen has

Dr. Donald L. “Don” Hall, College

Forest Resources – Castle is a

Florida. A member of the MSU

1976 and 1978 graduate with a

Foundation board of directors, he

of Arts and Sciences – A 1962

bachelor’s in education and master’s

is the retired president and CEO of

graduate, Hall was a board certified

in wildlife ecology, respectively. He

the New York Mercantile Exchange,

doctor of ophthalmology at the Steen-

is director of technical programs

Inc., and former chairman of the

Hall Eye Institute in Shreveport, La.

for the Mississippi Department

U.S. Commodity Futures Trading

Now retired, he was also a clinical

of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks in

Commission. Newsome and his wife,

associate professor at Tulane University

Jackson. Castle began working for

Mary, live in Mendham, N.J., with

Medical School in New Orleans and

the department in 1978, and has

their two daughters, Molly and Riley.

Louisiana State University Medical

served as a wildlife biologist, white-

Wendy J. Allen, College of

tailed deer program coordinator

Architecture, Art and Design

and bureau wildlife chief. He

– Allen, of Arlington, Va., is a

now oversees state wildlife law

1998 graduate with a master’s in

School at Shreveport. He is a native of Vicksburg.

Cornelious D. “C.D.” Smith Jr., MSU-Meridian – Smith, a

Larry Castle, Jim Newsome, Wendy Allen, Don Hall, C.D. Smith, Locke Karriker, Franc Lee, Henry Blakeslee.

Not Pictured – Corey McKern

38

spring 2012

Meridian campus alumnus, earned

finance in 1989. He and his wife,

medicine in 1999 and 2000, respectively.

his bachelor’s degree in business

Shirley, divide their time between

He serves as director of the Swine

and industry in 1991, and an MBA

Rankin County and Starkville.

Medicine Education Center at the Iowa

in 1995. He is a regional director

Henry E. “Ed” Blakeslee III,

State University College of Veterinary

with AT&T Mississippi, as well as

James Worth Bagley College of

Medicine, where he is also an associate

member of the Mississippi Board

Engineering – A 1963 electrical

professor of veterinary diagnostic and

of Trustees of State Institutions of

engineering alumnus, Blakeslee is a

production animal medicine.

Higher Learning and chair of the

retired vice president of Mississippi

Corey M. McKern, College

G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery Institute

Power Company. During his nearly

of Education – McKern, a 1999

board of directors. Smith and his

40-year career, he served in various

music education graduate, is a

wife, Linda, have three children,

positions in engineering, accounting

rising New York operatic baritone.

Cynthia, Drew and Danielle.

and administration. He is currently

He has performed with opera

vice president of the Mississippi

companies and orchestras in New

of Business – Since 1999, Lee has

Board of Trustees of State Institutions

York, New Mexico, Ohio, Tennessee,

served as president and CEO of First

of Higher Learning. Blakeslee is

Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Nevada

Tower Corp., a consumer finance

married to fellow MSU graduate,

and Nebraska, among other

company that owns and operates

Marilyn, and lives in Gulfport.

states. Recently, McKern made his

Francis C. “Franc” Lee, College

158 loan branches throughout

Dr. Locke A. Karriker, College of

international debut with Opera

Louisiana, Mississippi and Missouri.

Veterinary Medicine – Karriker earned

Hong Kong. Also, he has been seen

He earned a bachelors of business

a doctorate in veterinary medicine

at Carnegie Hall as the baritone

administration in banking and

and Master of Science in veterinary

soloist in Faure’s “Requiem.” •

2011 Outstanding Chapters named ach year the Alumni

Silver chapters included: George-

Lauderdale County

Association recognized

E

Greene, Panola County, Central

Lee County

chapters for their

Mississippi and Atlanta, Ga.

Leflore-Carroll

dedication to MSU throughout the

Bronze chapters included:

Memphis, Tenn.

state and nation. This February,

Covington County, Lincoln County,

Mobile, Ala.

more than 30 chapters were honored

DeSoto County and Birmingham, Ala.

Nashville, Tenn.

at the annual alumni awards banquet. Gold, silver and bronze

Also recognized were the honor chapters, which included:

Northeast Florida Scott County

cowbells were given to chapter

Alcorn County

South Texas

representatives in appreciation for

Attala County

Southeast Mississippi

their service.

Chickasaw County

Southwest Mississippi

Houston, Texas

Warren County

Jefferson Davis, Hancock County,

Huntsville-Decatur, Ala.

Washington County

Oktibbeha County and East Texas

Jackson County

Washington, D.C. •

Gold chapters included: Lawrence-

mississippi state A lumnus

39

Alumni

NEWS

12 SPRING

ALUMNUS

Alumni Association

exceeds 2011 active member goal T he MSU Alumni

Association. “Year after year, we

and association without our

Association has

celebrate the overwhelming generosity

members.”

broken its membership

of our alumni and friends.”

A gift or pledge of any amount

to the MSU Foundation or Bulldog

record for a third consecutive

Since 2006, the association has

year. As of December 31, the

grown its membership by more than

Club qualifies a person for active

association boasted 41,216 active

10,000 individuals, an increase of

membership. Membership lasts

members, breaking its yearlong

over 32 percent.

for one year and may be renewed

40,000-member goal.

“We are thankful for continuous

“By offering financial and volunteer support, MSU alumni

annually with additional financial support.

For more information on the

support by our active members,” said

play a vital role in the success of our

Dr. Jimmy Abraham, associate vice

university,” continued Abraham.

MSU Alumni Association, visit the

president for development and alumni

“We simply could not achieve our

website at www.alumni.msstate.edu

and executive director of the Alumni

mission and goals as a university

or call 662-325-7000. •

Association welcomes

93rd chapter in Tuscaloosa alumni and friends from that area.

Because of its close proximity to the

40

spring 2012

Tuscaloosa chapter to our alumni

Birmingham chapter, Tuscaloosa has

association family,” said Jimmy

never formed its own group. However,

Abraham, associate vice president

several hundred Bulldog alumni in

for development and alumni and

the area proved reason to establish a

executive director of the MSU

new charter.

Alumni Association. “Mississippi

After several months of planning Alumni Association Executive Director Jimmy Abraham, left, and Jerry Toney, association national president, right, present a banner to Tuscaloosa Chapter President Andy Ryder, center.

“We are so happy to welcome the

State is proud to be represented by

n Friday, Feb. 10, the

O

and gaining local interest, the

such dedicated and loyal Bulldogs in

Alumni Association

newest chapter was made official at

our sister state of Alabama.”

officially welcomed its

the recent meeting of the national

93rd chapter in Tuscaloosa, Ala.

board of directors. The Tuscaloosa

chapter, contact chapter president,

The foundation of this chapter has

chapter will include the Alabama

Andy Ryder, at aryder@cedtuscaloosa.

been in the works since 2010, when

counties of Tuscaloosa, Pickens,

com. You may also find them on

alumni staff were approached by

Hale and Greene.

Facebook. •

For more information on the new

Bulldogs travel to the Derby ast spring, a group of

L

Louisville, each focused on breeding,

Bulldog alumni and friends

training and retirement.

to experience a true American

was touring a local rescue farm for

tradition – the 137th running of the

retired horses, and seeing the care

Kentucky Derby.

they receive after their breeding

took the trip of a lifetime

MSU alumnus James J. “Jim” Rouse, and his wife Julia, were among a group of six travelers

“One of my favorite experiences

or racing career has ended,” Julia commented.

The Rouses described the day

affiliated with Mississippi State

of the Derby as a carnival like

who attended the event, which was

atmosphere. Guests are dressed

hosted by Premiere Global Sports.

in their finest spring dresses and suits, and the show of hats is

universities such as Texas A&M,

in our life, and I found this one to

almost as exciting as the beautiful

Oklahoma and Tennessee.”

be as well organized as any we have

thoroughbreds racing that day.

“Julie and I have taken many tours

been involved with,” stated Jim.

“It is an electrifying experience

Each year, the MSU Alumni Association sponsors several trips

“The company held an orientation

when several hundred thousand

like the Kentucky Derby through the

meeting to tell you everything that

people are watching the beautiful

Traveling Bulldogs program. In 2012,

was going to happen and where we

thoroughbreds coming around

there are several trips across Europe

would go. Everything was handled

the bend,” said Jim. “You hear the

and the United States, including the

for us.”

thunder of the hooves and the

Kentucky Derby. For a listing, please

people cheering, and it is an exciting

visit alumni.msstate.edu/travel2012.

The trip included tickets to the world famous Kentucky Derby, as

experience.”

Bulldog alumni visited Churchhill Downs and witnessed the 137th running of the Kentucky Derby.

For information about the

well as a tour of a local distillery.

“We really enjoyed the entire

Traveling Bulldogs program, contact

A highlight of the trip was a tour

trip,” added Julia. “We met new

Libba Andrews at landrews@alumni.

of three horse farms surrounding

friends from MSU, as well as other

msstate.edu or 662-325-3479. •

2012 banquet, conference a success n Feb. 10-11, hundreds

O

outstanding alumni and friends, and

to watch the MSU men’s basketball

of alumni and friends

also offered informative sessions for

team play a couple of Southeastern

gathered on the Mississippi

chapter volunteers.

Conference games at the Hump against

annual awards banquet and

enjoyed networking and sharing ideas

conference. The Alumni Association

with other alumni in attendance.

awards banquet and conference, visit

recognized some of its most

Participants also had the opportunity

alumni.msstate.edu. •

State University campus for the

Honorees and conference attendees

Ole Miss and Georgia.

For more on the 2012 alumni

mississippi state A lumnus

41

Alumni

NEWS

12 SPRING

ALUMNUS

Alumni to host all SEC conference in August his summer, the MSU

T

and communication, alumni relations,

Alumni Association will

and more.

alumni professionals within the

our colleagues from around the

Southeastern Conference. Titled

conference and showcase our

APSEC, the annual event will take

beautiful campus and community,”

place August 6-8, and welcome the

stated Dr. Jimmy Abraham, associate

Professionals of the Southeastern

newest members of the SEC – Texas

vice president for development and

Conference. Each year, a different

A&M and Missouri.

alumni and executive director of the

university hosts the event.

MSU Alumni Association. “APSEC

Mississippi State last hosted this

and brainstorm on alumni activities

allows each university to come

conference in 2000.

with peers from each of the 14 SEC

together and share ideas and best

For more on the MSU Alumni

universities. Sessions include topics

practices, as well as build lifelong

Association, visit alumni.msstate.

on chapters, alumni events, marketing

relationships with our peers.”

edu. •

“We are very excited to host

host a conference for

Conference attendees will network

APSEC stands for Alumni

MSU names

alumni delegate officers

Left to right, Guyton, Faccini, Uithoven and Kent

senior chemical engineering major

serve as student liaisons between

and the son of Cheryl and Mark

the land grant university and its

Guyton of Starkville; Claire Faccini,

more than 121,000 living graduates.

vice president for public relations, a

Their purpose is to improve the

junior anthropology major who is the

understanding of the role of the MSU

daughter of Patricia and Peter Faccini

Alumni Association by education

of Moss Point; Rivers Uithoven,

and involving students in activities

secretary, a junior kinesiology and

and events of the association. The

clinical exercise physiology major

new officers are part of a 40-member

he 126 year-old MSU

T

who is the daughter of Susan and Joe

group of delegates who were chosen

Alumni Association

Uithoven of Brandon; and Jacob Kent,

through a highly selective process

has named officers for

vice president for education, a junior

from among nearly 300 applicants.

its student liaison group for 2012.

secondary education and English

For more information on the MSU

Leading the MSU Alumni Delegates

major who is the son of Kevin and

Alumni Association and the delegates

in the group’s 31st year are, left to

JoAnne Kent of Tupelo.

organization, visit www.alumni.

right, John Guyton, president, a

42

spring 2012

Founded in 1980, Alumni Delegates

msstate.edu/alumnidelegates. •

Alumni website goes mobile Alumni Association. “As we grow, it

he Mississippi State

T

The mobile website, which

University Alumni

features only a portion of the

Association recently

information available on the full

launched a mobile-friendly version

website, will continue to grow and

on the mobile website, e-mail

of the organization’s website. Located

change over time. Users will navigate

spape@advservices.

at www.alumni.msstate.edu/mobile,

between the mobile site and full

msstate.edu. To view

the new site features important

website depending on which section

the website, visit www.

links and information about the

or feature they are trying to access.

alumni.msstate.edu/

association, alumni chapters and

The site is best viewed on iPhones

mobile. •

university.

and Android phones, but can be

“Our goal is to stay on the cutting edge of communication and

will continue to evolve.”

For questions or to offer feedback

accessed on any mobile Internet browser.

“The mobile site will be a

marketing in order to keep our over 121,000 alumni informed about

dynamic tool used to communicate

MSU,” stated Sheri Pape, marketing

our message, news and event

and communication coordinator.

information to alumni and friends,”

“The new mobile site will allow our

said Jimmy Abraham, associate

alumni to access information on the

vice president for development and

go in an easy format.”

alumni and executive director of the

rediscover DOWNTOWN JACKSON

308 E. PEARL ST., SUITE 101 JACKSON, MS 39201

www.ITSDOWNTOWN.com

· 25,000 people work Downtown · Apartments are 100% leased · Over 100 events annually mississippi state A lumnus

43

Foundation

NEWS

12 sPRING

ALUMNUS

Foundation names officers,

incoming members for 2012 n its 50th year, the MSU Foundation board of directors is being presided over by

I

James J. “Jim” Rouse, who enters his third term as president. Rouse is a 1962 industrial management graduate and a retired vice president of ExxonMobil Corp.

Rouse is joined by returning officers Bobby Shackouls of Houston, Texas, a 1972 chemical

engineering graduate, and D. Hines Brannan Jr. of Atlanta, Ga., a 1970 industrial engineering graduate, serving as vice president and treasurer in their third terms, respectively. Brannon also received an MBA at MSU in 1971. Shackouls is the retired chairman, president and CEO

Rouse

of Burlington Resources Inc., and Brannan is a retired partner with Accenture. Each began a new oneyear term January 1, along with Rouse.

Other leadership for the 45-member board of directors

Brannan

Mills

McDaniel

Gwin

Jordan

Parker

Sanders

Starr

Taylor

Puckett

Shackouls

includes John P. Rush, MSU vice president for development and alumni, who serves as CEO; David Easley, executive director of finance, who serves as CFO; and Jack McCarty, executive director of development, who serves as secretary. Mitchell All three are MSU graduates.

New board members who began three-year terms in January include two Mississippi residents, Richard Mills Jr. of Flora and William C. “Bill” Mitchell of Gulfport. Mills is a 1980 petroleum engineering graduate and founder and manager of Tellus Operating Group LLC. A 1975 civil engineering graduate and 1987 master of public policy and administration graduate, Mitchell is vice president of Brown, Mitchell & Alexander Inc. A third new member,

44

spring 2012

Mike M. McDaniel of Houston,

senior managing director of energy

1964 physical education graduate who

Texas, is a 1979 MSU mechanical

research for International Strategy &

is chairman of Jimmy Sanders Inc.,

engineering graduate who is currently

Investment.

while Starr, a 1980 general science

CEO of M3 Resources LLC.

Mississippi residents rejoining the

graduate, is a periodontist with

Members of the MSU Foundation

board are Mark S. Jordan of Canton;

Golden-Triangle Periodontal Center.

board may serve again after vacating

Hal Parker Jr. of Bolton; Michael W.

Taylor, a 1977 general business

their board seats for a one-year

“Mike” Sanders of Cleveland; John

administration graduate, is chairman

period. Those rejoining the board

Walter “Walt” Starr Jr. of Columbus;

and CEO of the Taylor Group.

in three-year appointments include

and William A. “Lex” Taylor III of

two out-of-state residents and five

Louisville.

Mississippi residents.

A 1976 MSU landscape architecture

Another 1977 general business administration graduate, Richard H. Puckett of Ridgeland, will fill the one-

graduate, Jordan puts his degree to

year term of the late Hunter W. Henry

and Douglas T. “Doug” Terreson of

use as a real estate developer of Mark

Jr. Puckett is chairman and CEO of

Point Clear, Ala., are returning to the

S. Jordan Companies. Fellow board

Puckett Machinery Co.

board. Gwin is a 1971 banking and

member Parker is a 1969 general

finance graduate who is managing

business administration graduate and

of the MSU Foundation, individuals

director of Morgan Keegan Co.

managing partner of Parker Land

should visit www.msufoundation.

Terreson is a 1984 MSU petroleum

LLC.

com or follow us on twitter @MSU_

Jan L. Gwin of Memphis, Tenn.,

engineering graduate, and the

Incoming member Sanders is a

For more information on the work

Foundation. •

New student organization to assist MSU Foundation ississippi State students

“We are excited to have our

will play a more active

students play an integral role in

role in the MSU

raising private funds at Mississippi

M

Foundation starting this spring.

State University,” says Jack McCarty,

The Foundation Ambassadors

executive director of the MSU

Ambassador President Jessica Hearn.

is a new student organization that

Foundation. “Mississippi State

“Additionally, I’m eager to meet

will assist the MSU Foundation in

students benefit greatly from gifts,

influential alumni and friends while

its mission to build relationships

and now they have the opportunity

building a professional fundraising

between the institution, its donors and

to interact with our donors who

background.”

prospective donors. The students who

make their education possible.”

serve as Foundation Ambassadors

Not only will the Foundation

The inaugural class of Foundation Ambassadors was appointed in

will assist in fundraising initiatives,

Ambassadors group serve as a valuable

February. Students will serve for the

and communicate with donors and

resource to the MSU Foundation, but it

remainder of 2012, and new members

potential donors. In addition, the

will also provide students with beneficial

will be selected in January 2013.

Ambassadors will raise awareness of

skills and experiences.

For more information on the

“I look forward to helping MSU

Foundation Ambassadors, contact

among current students and campus

attain its fundraising goals through

Barbie Hampel at 662-325-5975 or

organizations.

this organization,” says Foundation

bhampel@foundation.msstate.edu.•

the importance of giving back to MSU

mississippi state A lumnus

45

Class

NEWS

12 SPRING

ALUMNUS

’59 Ed Echols

’87 Marilyn Crouther

’93 Dorsey R. Carson Jr.,

’06 Reid Stone

of Houston, Texas, recently made

has been named senior vice

a partner in the Jackson office of

co-founder of the New Orleans

a hole-in-one at the BraeBurn

president and general manager of

Burr & Forman LLP, has been

marketing strategy and design

Country Club. It is his sixth hole-

HP Enterprise Services, U.S. Public

named a 2011 Mid-South Super

agency HERO-farm, has been

in-one in his 50-year golf career.

Sector region.

Lawyers Rising Star.

named to YFS Magazine’s Top 20 Young Entrepreneurs of 2011 list.

‘68 Harris H. Barnes

Kim Correro Fandel

Cheri L. Gatlin,

of Jackson, president of Barnes

(M.S. ’94), a first grade teacher

a partner in the Jackson office of

’11 Gray Marchetti

Law Firm, has been named a

at Carver Elementary School in

Burr & Forman LLP, has been

is currently serving handicapped

Mid-South Super Lawyer by Super

Tupelo, has been inducted into

named a 2011 Mid-South Super

and disabled children at Joytown

Lawyers magazine.

the Mississippi Hall of Master

Lawyers Rising Star.

Primary School in Thika, Kenya.

Harry Dendy of Clinton, retired president of Farm Credit/Capitol Agricultural

Teachers. She also has been named Tupelo’s Teacher of the

’94 Hal B. Clark

Year.

of Nashville, Tenn., a landscape

ANNOUNCEMENTS

(M.A. ’90) of Arlington, Va.,

Group, a civil engineering,

Lyndi Kate Pape, July 6, 2011, to

has been promoted to brigadier

planning and design firm.

Joey Pape (’05) and Lauren Brown

William L. Stoppel

4-H Hall of Fame.

’74 Llana Smith

BIRTH

principal at Civil Site Design

Services, has been named to the

general with the Army National

architect, has been named a

Pape (’05) of Raymond.

of Memphis, Tenn., owner of

Guard. He now serves as Chief of

’00 Richard Russo,

Broadway Travel, has been named

Staff with the Guard.

football defensive coordinator

2011, to Helen Moore Parker (’98,

of the Water Valley Blue Devils,

M.B.A. ’00) and husband Gordon

has been elected a member of the

of Chattanooga, Tenn.

the first female president of Skal

Nicolas Buck Parker, Oct. 13,

International-USA, a professional

Michael Watson

organization of tourism leaders.

of Shelbyville, Tenn., has been

Mississippi Association of Coaches

Thomas Andrew Peacock,

named vice president of the

Region 2-3A Coaching Staff of the

July 25, 2011, to Andrea Peacock

Duck River Electric Membership

Year.

(’01) Marcus Peacock (’02) of

’76 Barry Lipsky of Bayport, N.Y., is president

Corporation. He previously was

of Lipsky Enterprises, which

director of operations for DREMC.

recently received the Jeffrey J. Zogg Build New York Award from the

Anthony Wilson

Associated General Contractors of

has been named executive vice

New York State.

president, customer service and

’80 Tim Rosenbury of Springfield, Mo., a lead principal

‘01 Brian S. Shelton

2011, to Art Smith (’01) and wife

named a partner with the law firm

Emily of Brandon.

of Bradley Arant Boult Cummings.

Aiden Peay Thompson, June

operations for Georgia Power. He

’05 Drew Muirhead

previously served the company as

of Brentwood, Tenn., a civil engineer

vice president of transmission.

with Barge, Waggoner, Sumner and Cannon, has achieved the designation

architectural firm, has received

of Professional Engineer.

Architects’ Missouri Distinguished Service Award.

46

spring 2012

Avery Leigh Smith, Oct. 27,

of Nashville, Tenn., has been

with Butler, Rosenbury & Partners the 2011 American Institute of

Dallas, Texas.

29, 2011, to Abby Lammons Thompson (’10, M.B.A. ’11) and husband Brent of Starkville.

Warm up with Beef Chilly Day Beef Chili(Makes 6 to 8 servings)

Ingredients: 2-1/2 pounds boneless beef chuck or round, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 2 cans (15-1/2 ounces each) black beans, rinsed, drained 1 can (15-1/2 ounces) chili-style tomato sauce with diced tomatoes 1 medium onion, chopped 2 teaspoons chili powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1 cup prepared thick-and-chunky salsa 1. Combine all ingredients except salsa and toppings in 4-1/2 to 5-1/2-quart slow cooker; mix well. Cover and cook on HIGH 5-1/2 to 6 hours, or on LOW 8 to 9 hours, or until beef is tender. (No stirring is necessary during cooking.)

2. Just before serving, stir in salsa; cook 2 to 3 minutes or until heated through. Serve with toppings, as desired.

Toppings: Shredded Cheddar cheese, diced red onion, diced green onion, diced avocado and dairy sour cream

For great BEEF recipes and nutrition information go to:

WWW.msbeef.org Mississippi Beef Council • 680 Monroe St. Suite A • Jackson, MS 39202 • (601) 353-4520 Sponsored by Mississippi’s Beef Producers through the Beef Checkoff Program

Students, alumni and friends of Mississippi State now can leave a permanent mark on the university’s campus. Through a gift to the MSU Annual Fund, your name or message can become a part of the Maroon Mile. Donors may select from two sizes of pavers to place on MSU’s historic parade grounds. Call 662.325.5975 or visit msufoundation.com.

mississippi state A lumnus

47

In

MEMORIAM

12

summer / FALL

ALUMNUS

James Kellum (’39)—94, Jackson;

Dan C. Meacham (’49)—Scooba;

Gerald A. Matthews (’59, M.S. ’63)—

Marisa Christiane Loftis Bruner

owner of Bet-R-Value Produce and

retired cattle farmer, teacher, and

81, Starkville; associate professor

(’78, M.E. ’79, Ph.D. ’87)—56,

World War II veteran, Dec. 2, 2011.

principal and World War II veteran,

emeritus of computer science and

Starkville; retired director of Cady

Clifton Arlie Wilson (’40)—

Aug. 28, 2011.

director of the Computing Center at

Hill Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation

Starkville; professor emeritus of

Homer C. Dickinson (’50)—

Mississippi State, July 19, 2011.

in Columbus, Nov. 6, 2011.

entomology at Mississippi State, Dec.

Blacksburg, Va.; retired chemical

Sue V. Oliver (’60)—74, Louisville;

Kent Hull (’84)—50, Greenwood;

1, 2011.

engineer for Hercules, Inc. and

retired county supervisor for the state

retired center for the NFL’s Buffalo

Wilbur L. Harper (’41)—89,

World War II veteran, June 19, 2011.

Welfare Department, Sept. 29, 2011.

Bills, member of the MSU Sports

Raymond; retired geophysicist and

Billy L. James (’50)—Petal; retired

William Randolph Oliver (’60)—72,

Hall of Fame and the Mississippi

World War II veteran, Feb. 11, 2010.

physician, July 17, 2011.

Ridgeland; retired employee of

Sports Hall of Fame, and was owner

Leon Paulette (’43, M.S. ’52)—90,

James Paul Richie (’50)—86,

Mississippi Vocational Rehabilitation

and operator of Hull Farms in

Hattiesburg; retired Mississippi

Corinth; retired, Sept. 30, 2011.

Services, Sept. 29, 2011.

Vaiden, Oct. 18, 2011.

Cooperative Extension Service

Joseph J. Cornish III (’51, Ph.D.

Gerald L. Tutor (’60)—St. Louis,

Jeff David Rhodes (’84)—50,

employee, January 2012.

’60)—86, Marietta, Ga.; retired

Mo.; retired research chemist for

Corinth; president of Rainbow

William Bruce P’Pool (’43)—90,

vice president for engineering for

Anheuser-Busch, July 7, 2011.

International, a subsidiary of General

Baton Rouge, La.; retired from Grant

Lockheed Aircraft Co. and former

Rodney L. Mansfield (’61)—

Construction Services of Memphis,

Chemical Divide Ferro Corp. and

head of aerophysics at MSU, Jan. 3,

Pascagoula; retired senior marine

Nov. 6, 2011.

World War II veteran, July 7, 2011.

2012.

engineer for Litton Ship Systems,

Berry Lawrence Chesser Jr. (’92)—

Nicholas Rodgers Stevens Jr.

Jack Davis (’51)—83, Miami, Fla.;

May 3, 2011.

54, Ridgecrest, Calif.; aerospace

(’46)—Jackson; retired executive

retired from Kraft Foods Inc., Aug.

Charles C. Nelson III (’64)—68,

engineer for Jacobs Naval Systems

director of the Mississippi Veterans

5, 2011.

Charleston; retired president of

Group, June 24, 2011.

Home Purchase Board and World

Joseph Robert Davis (’52, M.S. 54)—

Cason Financial Corp., Dec. 25,

Casey Cameron Dunagan (’02)—34,

War II veteran, Dec. 15, 2011.

83, Eupora; retired Webster County

2010.

Fairfax, Va.; program analyst for the

William Hunter Eubanks (’47)—89,

superintendent of education and

Don Nevels (’65)—Foley, Ala.;

Bureau of Safety and Environmental

Tampa, Fla.; retired department head

NAEP supervisor, June 15, 2011.

retired Mississippi Forestry

Enforcement, U.S. Department of the

of engineering graphics at Mississippi

Lenard G. Elder (’52)—80, Deering,

Commission employee, Jan. 21, 2012.

Interior, Nov. 30, 2011.

State and World War II veteran, Oct.

Mo.; retired school teacher and bus

Bryant Moore Barron (’66)—73,

22, 2011.

driver and Korean War veteran,

Liberty; retired from State Farm

Paul J. Brignac Jr.

Omar D. Craig (’49)—84, Oxford;

March 17, 2010.

Companies Foundation, Jan. 16,

(faculty member)—67, Starkville;

attorney, MSU Alumni Association

Hugh Evans Scott (’52)—81,

2012.

analytical chemist and professor at

national president in 1970, and

Benton, Ky.; retired electrical

James William Gordon (’68)—

MSU and associate state chemist,

World War II and Korean War

engineer for Tennessee Valley

Maryville, Tenn.; retired industrial

Nov. 13, 2011.

veteran, Dec. 1, 2011.

Authority and Korean War veteran,

hygienist for Celanese in Dallas,

Henry Lyman Havens (’49)—94,

Jan. 14, 2012.

Texas, Jan. 13, 2012.

Pascagoula; retired U.S. Army

John T. Alford (’57)—Ridgeland;

Larry Melvin Clanton (’69)—65,

lieutenant colonel, Ingalls

retired executive director of the

Gore Springs; owner of Clanton

Shipbuilding employee and World

Mississippi Food Network, Oct. 1,

farms and former forester, Sept. 22,

War II and Korean War veteran, Dec.

2011.

2011.

3, 2011.

John Allen Gilliland Jr. (’57, M.P.A.

Janice Lynn Howard Delk (’72)—

G.C. McLeod Jr. (’49)—Lucedale;

’60)—76, Laurel; retired certified

Ellisville; retired teacher at Beat Four

retired farmer, timberman and state

public accountant, Nov. 30, 2011.

High School in Wayne County and

senator, Sept. 5, 2011.

South Jones High School in Jones County, Dec. 6, 2011.

48

spring 2012

PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES A powerful resource for Mississippi

A D VA N C I N G O U R S TAT E T O G E T H E R

Contributing to per capita income, providing brain

to need government programs and more likely to read to

power for the state’s business and industry, encouraging

their children, vote, and volunteer. Collectively, they are a

better health and education, volunteering to improve their

powerful force for advancing Mississippi.

communities. Mississippi Public University graduates are involved in all aspects of civic and community life.

The return on investing in public higher education?

Mississippi’s future.

Studies have shown that college graduates are less likely

ADVANCING OUR STATE TOGETHER Alcorn State University | Delta State University | Jackson State University | Mississippi State University Mississippi University for Women | Mississippi Valley State University | The University of Mississippi | The University of Southern Mississippi

www.mississippi.edu

NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID BIRMINGHAM, AL PERMIT NO. 159 Post Office Box AA One Hunter Henry Boulevard Mississippi State, MS 39762-5526 www.alumni.msstate.edu CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

Made with recycled paper.

Discrimination based upon race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or veteran’s status is a violation of federal and state law and MSU policy and will not be tolerated. Discrimination based upon sexual orientation or group affiliation is a violation of MSU policy and will not be tolerated.

Draft a winning charitable gift plan with our help.

You probably know that Mississippi State University thrives with gifts from alumni and friends like you. But, you might not realize that by making a planned gift, you can often create a much larger impact on MSU’s tomorrow, without sacrificing as much today.

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.”

Don’t stand on the sidelines… get in the game!

MSU is an AA/EEO university.