Southeastern Magazine: Fall/Winter 2021

SOUTHEASTERN LOUISIANA UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE FALL / WINTER

2021

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SOUND OF SUCCESS

BEHIND THE BRICKS

GROOVING INTO A GRAMMY

Southeastern researchers develop national awardwinning cochlear implant sound technology

From love and cherished memories to accomplishments and more, the bricks in Southeastern’s Friendship Plaza have many stories to tell

Renowned jazz musician and class of ’84 alum Craig Klein achieves the American music industry’s top honor

Contents.

SOUTHEASTERN LOUISIANA UNIVERSITY FALL /WINTER

2021

MAGAZ I N E P RESI D EN T

Dr. John L. Crain PROVOS T & VI C E P R E S I D E NT F O R AC A D EM I C A F FA I RS

Dr. Tena L. Golding V ICE P R E S I D E NT F O R AD MI N I S TR AT I O N & F I N A N C E

Sam Domiano V IC E P R E S I D E NT F O R U N I VE R S I T Y A DVA N C EM EN T

Wendy Lauderdale, CFRE

See Yourself?, pg. 44-45

VI C E P R E S I D E N T F O R S T U D EN T A F FA I RS

Dr. Eric Summers S E NI O R D I R EC TO R, U N I V ERSI T Y MAR K E TI NG AN D CO M M U N I C AT I O N S

Mike Rivault ED I TO R I N C H I EF

Sheri Gibson P H OTO GRA P H Y

Randy Bergeron CO N T RI B U TO RS

Kemmler Chapple, Allen Cutrer, Olivia Graziano, Mary Grace Kelley, Tonya Lowentritt

Submissions: Southeastern Magazine welcomes photographs, alumni news, story suggestions, and letters of 300 or fewer words.

Items may be used for publication unless the author requests otherwise and are subject to editing. Send submissions to Editor, Southeastern Magazine, Office of University Marketing and Communications, SLU 10784, Hammond, LA 70402 or editor@southeastern.edu.

Southeastern Magazine Online: Visit southeasternmagazine.blog to view and share the stories in this magazine or explore past issues.

Printing and distribution for the Southeastern Magazine is provided by the Southeastern Foundation—southeasternfoundation.org.

COV ER P H OTO : Grammy Winner Craig Klein, class of ‘84, demonstrates the soul of New Orleans jazz and brass band traditions while also making his own unique mark on the area’s musical landscape.

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SOUND OF SUCCESS

CAREER CLOSET

BEHIND THE BRICKS

A student/faculty team of researchers team up to develop award-winning cochlear implant sound technology.

A new Southeastern program is helping students put their best foot forward by dressing them for career success.

Embedded in the heart of campus, Friendship Bricks tell the stories of generations of alumni.

34 38 GROOVING INTO A GRAMMY

HEALTH SCIENCES PROGRAM

Class of '84 alum and professional jazz musician Craig Klein has taken home the music industry's top honor: a Grammy.

A new program in the College of Nursing and Health Sciences is helping students achieve a strong, interdisciplinary foundation in healthcare.

LEGEND IN THE MAKING

Quarterback Cole Kelley is a fierce example of excellence on the field, earning him the prestigious Walter Payton Award.

president’s message

&

Alumni, Friends, Supporters,

Alexis

GENOVESE

out & about

Sophomore // Communications Hometown // Husser, LA How Southeastern changed me The experiences and opportunities I’ve had at Southeastern have made me a better leader and communicator. Attending Southeastern also made me realize that I chose the right major, and I am on the path that I am meant to be on.

Favorite spot on campus I hope this issue of the Southeastern Magazine finds you doing well despite these challenging times.

While many of the difficulties that emerged during 2020 still linger, on many fronts, we continue to move in a positive direction and have accomplished much since our spring issue.

Vaccination rates continue to rise both among our University and local communities, while strong adherence to mitigation measures, such as mask wearing and sanitation procedures, remain in place. Thanks to these efforts, most students are now on campus, attending classes and connecting with their friends and professors, as well as taking advantage of the exciting, welcoming atmosphere and opportunities of life on Southeastern’s campus.

The achievements of those within our University community not only endure but are ever increasing. In countless ways, our alumni, students, faculty, and staff are making profound impacts on their chosen fields and the world around them. At the same time, our physical landscape and branding are also witnessing new enhancements.

This issue of the Southeastern Magazine provides a brief glimpse of some of these stories. I invite you to spend time with this issue, and when you are finished, please be an advocate for Southeastern by passing it along to someone else to explore and by sharing individual articles and accompanying videos via our magazine webpage.

I hope you enjoy this fresh sampling of what makes our University such a special place and what we can achieve through determination, innovation, and working together.

My favorite spot on campus is the University Center, specifically the basketball court. I've spent many hours practicing my camera work while filming basketball games for Athletics.

Dream job My dream job is to work as a newscaster for a major news corporation.

What do you think of Southeastern’s faculty and staff?

Southeastern’s faculty and staff go above and beyond to make sure students have everything they need to not only succeed, but also excel in college and beyond. They genuinely care about student success and devote so much time and energy to ensure we have everything we need, as well as make Southeastern a beautiful place for all to enjoy.

Favorite thing about my major Working at the award-winning, student-run Southeastern Channel is my absolute favorite part of my major. Getting to work in a real-life television studio gives me priceless hands-on experience that is incredibly beneficial to helping me grow and learn about my major.

Current involvement on campus I am a 2021 Orientation Leader, film sports games for Athletics, and am a reporter for the Southeastern Channel.

In 15 words or less, what is great about Southeastern?

Southeastern has a small town feel with big city resources and opportunities.

John L. Crain PRES ID EN T 2

SOUTHEASTERN MAGAZINE

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social media

Create a ROA R BRINGING THE GREEN AND GOLD TO SOCIAL MEDIA

baileystrotherrr Our favorite thing to do is #lionup

Todd Gee's Integrity A/C Had a great time at Gnarly Barley Brewing supporting SLU last night! #lionup

sstuprich14 Wish I knew what he was thinking but have an idea... must be so cool to have a big bro pitching in college and also be his role model.

Gameday and a win for the Lions...#bigbrolittlebro #lionup 4

SOUTHEASTERN MAGAZINE

koya_k28 Happy Birthday Roomie #lionup

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news in learning

Achieving the Lowest Student Loan Debt in the State Introducing New Logos Southeastern has reinvented its visual identity with the creation of new logos for both the University and athletics.

The change comes as the University approaches its 100th anniversary in 2025.

“For over 95 years now, Southeastern has been dedicated to our students’ success,” said Southeastern President John L. Crain. “Part of that focus on student success is sensitivity to the cost of a college education. A Southeastern education is an incredible value and always has been. We have a long-standing tradition of programs and initiatives that help keep a Southeastern degree accessible and affordable.”

He pointed to two examples: the Southeastern Promise, which provides a four-year path to degree completion that comes with a fixed net tuition guarantee for participants, and the University’s textbook rental program, which saves students thousands of dollars while attaining their degrees.

"Drawing from iconic elements of Southeastern’s identity, campus, and heritage, the new logos bridge Southeastern’s history and future," Crain said.

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SOUTHEASTERN MAGAZINE

In Louisiana, the average debt per student borrower is $23,855, the seventh lowest in the nation. Fifty-one percent of Louisiana students graduated with debt.

Southeastern graduates reported an average debt of $19,356, 1.93 percent less than the previous year.

“Since its opening in 1925, Southeastern has had a long and storied history of empowering generations of students to reach for and achieve their best future,” said Southeastern President John L. Crain. “As we are in the final years of our first century and beginning to envision our second century, the time has come to update and unify the University’s brand and identity.

“Logos should reflect our character, strengths, excellence and values. These new logos do just that,” added Crain. “The logo change is merely the beginning of a process to give Southeastern a modern brand identity that will lead us into the centennial anniversary.”

Southeastern graduates have the least student loan debt out of all the universities in the state. The average debt per borrower for Southeastern’s graduating class of 2019 was ranked No. 1 for least debt in Louisiana and No. 36 for lowest debt nationwide, according to statistics released by LendEDU.

Scan here to learn more.

The project will focus on the use of posterior predictive methods for assessing which models are most appropriate for a particular dataset. The work will provide practical guidance and research software tools for researchers to perform more complex model assessment in systemic biology.

news in learning

Generating World-Class Research and Student Learning Opportunities Through $1,125,000 National Science Foundation Grant The National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded a Southeastern biologist and specialist in evolution, computational biology, and phylogenetics a grant of $1,125,000. Phylogenetics is the study of evolutionary relationships among biological entities—often species, individuals, or genes.

Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences April Wright received the five-year grant to integrate information from the fossil record with data collected from living species to infer phylogenetic relationships.

The grant was one of only two CAREER grants awarded in the state. NSF CAREER awards are in support of junior faculty who exemplify the role of teacher-scholars through research and education, and the integration of these endeavors in the context of their organizations’ missions.

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SOUTHEASTERN MAGAZINE

“I will be working with statistical methods to integrate fossil data with extant molecular data to estimate dated phylogenetic trees,” said Wright. “Phylogenetic trees are one of our key ways of understanding the evolution of organisms, form, and function. And fossils are often our only direct source of information about past organisms. What we’ll be doing in the lab is evaluating different mathematical models for estimating phylogenetic trees from joint fossil and molecular data.”

Wright added that both the research and educational missions of the project will substantially improve their respective fields.

“The research objectives of the project will inform researchers of how to appropriately model complex and heterogeneous data in a hierarchical model,” she explained. “The educational components also address key gaps in the literature on how to incorporate computation in undergraduate biology education.

In particular, code-to-learn approaches are currently understudied in biology."

“This grant will allow us to grow into a nationally recognized university for computational biology, which is an exciting and rapidly changing field,” McCarthy said. “This is a tremendous opportunity for Dr. Wright, Southeastern, and especially for our students.”

Wright said she is looking forward to the educational component of the grant.

“To do the work I do, researchers have to be competent at statistics and computation,” she said. “We’ll be taking a look at ‘code-to-learn’ approaches where students use code to discover insights about biology. This should help us integrate more crucial skills development into lower-level curricula without losing biological information.”

Along with the effects of incorporating code-to-learn principles into lower division coursework, Wright plans to study if early exposure to computation in the classroom can lead to improved student retention by helping students develop important research skills early in their careers.

Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences April Wright has been awarded a five-year grant of $1,125,000 by the National Science Foundation to integrate information from the fossil record with data collected from living species to infer phylogenetic relationships.

“This is a big deal. CAREER awards are the most prestigious grants awarded by NSF, and they typically go to researchers at Research I universities, not at a regional principally undergraduate university like Southeastern,” said College of Science and Technology Dean Daniel McCarthy. “This is a testament not only to the world-class level of Dr. Wright’s research, but also to the novel educational approach she is taking with this project.”

“Retention of underrepresented minority students is at the heart of my educational plan. As an assistant professor, I observe very clearly the issues with retention of vulnerable students,” she said. “I propose to leverage existing recruitment networks for vulnerable students to identify those who are interested in scientific computing.”

Alumni Center Renovations and New Home Big changes are coming to the Alumni Center! The structure, originally opened in 1994, will soon be undergoing a wave of updates to better serve visiting and soon-to-be graduates. The renovations are scheduled to begin in January 2022 and be completed by the summer.

While the improvements take place, the temporary Alumni Association offices will be in White Hall, 300 W Dakota St, Hammond, LA 70401. Alumni staff can also be contacted via 985.549.2150 or alumni@southeastern.edu.

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news in learning

OSH&E Program Ranked Among Top in the Nation

Southeastern’s Occupational Safety, Health, and Environment (OSH&E) program has been ranked in the top 10 in the nation for affordability by College Values Online.

The organization ranks schools and programs, highlights features of the college experience, and provides career information for prospective students.

The only university in Louisiana included, Southeastern’s program was ranked ninth in the nation among 65 colleges and universities listed by the Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator and reputable online sources that offer affordable occupational safety degree programs for less than $15,000 per year.

“This ranking can be attributed to the rigorous program that we offer, the standards that our faculty apply, the continuous improvement of curriculum and infrastructure, and the professional ties that we built with key industrial partners and employers,” said Mohammad Saadeh, Industrial and Engineering Technology department head. “The collective impact of these efforts is manifested in this ranking, especially that the program was ranked nineteenth in 2015.

It is remarkable to see this leap in a relatively short period. News like this brings attention to the great work that our faculty do in preparing qualified safety professionals equipped with relevant education according to the needs of the workforce.”

The criteria for ranking included regional or national accreditation, full or part-time completion pathways, and program and/or school rankings with U.S. News and World Report.

Southeastern’s program is nationally accredited by the Applied Science Accreditation Commission of ABET, Inc. The program grew from a two-year associate’s degree program to a fouryear bachelor of science program following considerable input from managers at area industries that reported a significant need for health and safety professionals. The program prepares students for a variety of positions, including roles of safety engineers and safety supervisors.

For more information about the OSH&E program, email ietech@southeastern.edu or call 985.549.2189.

Serving as the Gulf South’s Sole International Baccalaureate Certification University Southeastern remains the only university in the Gulf South authorized to offer courses leading to the International Baccalaureate (IB) Educator Certificate in Teaching and Learning. The University is one of only 50 IB authorized certification institutions in the United States.

The certification, which is granted by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), prepares teachers to use advanced academic techniques in the growing number of IB schools. IB programs offer students in elementary through high school a comprehensive, demanding curriculum of advanced studies for highly motivated students.

“It’s such an honor to know that Southeastern is in this elite number of universities offering the International Baccalaureate Educator Certificate (IBEC),” said Paula Summers Calderon, dean of the College of Education.

“As the only accredited university in the Gulf South approved to offer the IBEC, Southeastern has earned a stellar reputation.”

Cherissa Vitter, IB coordinator for the University’s Department of Teaching and Learning, has worked to recruit both pre-service and in-service teachers to seek certification in international education. “Her students hail from all over the world and range from undergraduate students to students who already hold doctorates," said Calderon. "In the IBEC program, teachers learn best practices for all content areas and grade levels regardless of whether the teachers teach in an IB school.”

“IB Programs are inquiry based and teach students how to learn,” Vitter explained. “The curriculum is worldwide and teachers must attend IB sanctioned training to teach IB courses at an IB World School. This training is standardized across the globe.”

The IB program started in 1968 as a diploma program in the United Kingdom, France, and the United States as educators looked to develop an academically challenging program to prepare students for success at the university level and beyond. IB programs are now offered worldwide at schools that meet the rigorous IB standards.

The program at Southeastern has verified the course completion for candidates in over nine countries, including the U.S. “It is quite incredible to reflect upon the fact that teachers in China and India are able to teach at IB World Schools because of their courses from Southeastern,” Vitter said.

The entire program is two semesters online. After two semesters, candidates receive a Certificate of Course Completion from Southeastern and the IB Educator Certificate in Teaching and Learning from the IBO. Candidates may also pursue a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, International Baccalaureate Education with additional courses.

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Featuring a New App for Southeastern Connect

news in learning

The Southeastern Alumni Association has officially launched an app for its Southeastern Connect platform, a network that helps members connect, give back, explore career opportunities, and get ahead.

Generating Support for Students Through Chefs Under the Stars Chefs Evening is a decades-long Southeastern tradition, bringing members of both the University and area communities together each spring for an elegant evening of food and drinks from some of the region’s best restaurants and caterers. While COVID-19 prevented Southeastern from holding the 2020 edition, the event was able to return for 2021 with a unique spin—held outside on the field of historic Strawberry Stadium and titled Chefs Under the Stars.

Nearly 400 guests attended the April 30 event, together contributing over $75,000 to Southeastern students. All funds raised help provide vital student scholarships and support.

Organized by the Southeastern Foundation, Chefs Under the Stars featured many familiar elements, including opportunities to indulge in a wide variety of delicious cuisine or take home a prize from the raffle. New for this year’s special edition event were performances by the University Jazz Ensemble and the Faculty Jazz Quartet, creating a one-of-a-kind dining and entertainment experience under the evening sky in the heart of Southeastern’s campus.

Visit southeastern.edu/chefs for exciting upcoming announcements on next year’s event—returning March 27 at The REC! 12

SOUTHEASTERN MAGAZINE

Southeastern Connect is an online community that allows our alumni to connect with each other and offer or find mentorships, internships, and jobs. Alumni register on the site, set up a profile, and can indicate that they are willing to help in a variety of ways. Southeastern alumni can elect to offer career advice, review resumes, conduct mock interviews, be guest speakers, offer internships, or offer oneon-one mentoring.

The site provides users with the ability to post and/or search for jobs and connect with others in groups, such as alumni association chapters, fraternity/sorority alumni, and industry specific groups. There is also an event feature, allowing alumni to obtain information on chapter events and share photographs and updates on their various activities.

To join Southeastern Connect, visit southeasternconnect.org.

“By creating a free account, alumni, faculty, staff and upper class students can unlock an online business directory featuring alumni owned businesses; a job board highlighting jobs and internships available in their area; access to a calendar of upcoming events and learning opportunities; and a diverse, growing community of members looking to connect with other alumni,” explained Executive Director of Alumni Relations Michelle Biggs.

Welcoming Back Golden Grads Members of the class of 1970 and 1971 will be honored this December during the Alumni Association’s annual Golden Grad weekend, a reunion and celebration for those who have reached their monumental 50-year milestone of being a Southeastern alum. Since the 2020 event was postponed due to COVID-19 precautions, the class of 1970 will be able to celebrate in person this year along with the class of 1971.

These special guests will be able to enjoy a luncheon reunion on Friday, December 17, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Student Union Ballroom before leading the Commencement procession on December 18, helping usher in the newest generation of alumni as part of a long-held Southeastern tradition.

If you are a member of the class of 1970 or 1971, please contact the Alumni Association at 985.549.2150 or alumni@southeastern.edu for more information.

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feature story

A Southeastern professor and two student researchers teamed up to develop beyond gold standard cochlear implant sound technology in only eight weeks, earning a national award.

Southeastern Professor of Physics Sanichiro Yoshida and graduate students Anthony Calmes and Conor McGibboney, both of Hammond, are making waves in research that could one day help others. Their efforts were recently recognized on a national level, earning an honorable mention in the first Cochlear Implant (CI) Hackathon. The team, with no prior experience in cochlear or sound technology, achieved better than the “gold standard,” a reference implementation of a fully featured cochlear implant sound coding strategy.

The CI Hackathon used a crowdsourced ranking structure to judge entries against each other and against a baseline, which essentially gives an approximation of what a cochlear implant sounds like today.

“Southeastern’s entry performed better than the baseline in the category of simple words.

Essentially this means that their improved algorithm outperformed what the cochlear implant can do today in that sound category,” explained CI Hackathon Project Leader Leah Muller. “This is a huge feat in itself. We as organizers were both surprised and excited when we started seeing teams perform better than baseline, because that meant we were succeeding in the second part of our mission with the Hackathon: to generate promising new strategies that may improve hearing for real cochlear implant users.”

THE SOUND OF Southeastern Professor of Physics Sanichiro Yoshida (center) teamed up with graduate students Conor McGibboney (left) and Anthony Calmes (right) to create national award-winning cochlear implant sound technology.

SUCCESS

BY TONYA LOWENTRITT

Cochlear implants are electronic devices that restore hearing to people who are born without hearing or who lose their hearing over time. The implants allow some deaf people to hear sounds by overriding the innate hearing mechanisms of the ear. Although cochlear implants can restore or improve hearing, some users may experience difficulty, especially with hearing speech in a noisy environment and enjoying music.

Held virtually, the CI Hackathon encouraged national participation with contestants from five continents. Top tier entries represented academic institutions, commercial entities, and individuals. The Southeastern team placed in the top four against sixty registered teams from universities all over the world, as well as private biotech firms and other tech companies.

The competition was a joint effort between Advanced Bionics, University of California San Francisco, and University of Minnesota with a goal to inspire members of the public to improve CI sound processing. The hackathon ranked entries based on their performance in four sound categories—a series of three unrelated one-syllable words, natural speech, speech in a noisy background, and music across a wide range of styles. Advanced Bionics, one of three FDA-approved CI manufacturers, sponsored the contest and provided the gold standard reference.

Advanced Bionics and the University of Minnesota further provided a software framework for contestants to develop and test their own algorithms, including an acoustic simulation of the sound percept produced by a CI in order for normal-hearing listeners to be able to optimize and ultimately judge the sound quality of the CI sound processing algorithms.

Yoshida, whose expertise is in optical interferometry and field theory, heard about the competition and was intrigued by it. The opportunities it presented to bring together many different discipline backgrounds and fields for a common purpose was particularly enticing. Yoshida connected with Calmes and McGibboney, who were current graduate students in his department, and formed a team to dig deeper into this project. Dean of the College of Science and Technology Dan McCarthy encouraged him to enter the competition.

McGibboney said that what inspired him to compete at the CI Hackathon is general curiosity about the human brain. “Humankind has progressed so far, yet a lot of the mystery about what life is and how humans will continue to evolve is locked inside the human brain,” he said. “It was an excellent opportunity to take some of the knowledge we learned in physics and other areas and see what we could uncover or how we could apply it to the human brain.”

Yoshida, Calmes, and McGibboney worked on the project over winter break. Yoshida explained that the software his team developed for the competition included basic strategies, such as increasing the gain of part of the control unit. Next, Calmes and McGibboney tested the software FA L L / W I N T E R 2 0 2 1

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Did you KNOW? THE REC Warm up this holiday season with our signature cocoa recipe! This little gift from your Southeastern Family combines the flavors of mint and vanilla, creating the perfect accompaniment for building fresh new memories with family and friends or relaxing with fond thoughts of times past.

82,000

Fill your heart and your belly with merriment by trying the recipe below, or scan the QR code for this how-to video and more. Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS 5 2/3 c. milk (whole or 2%) 1.5 tsp. pure vanilla extract 11 oz. bag white chocolate chips (about 1 2/3 cups) Green food coloring Whipped cream

pieces of cardio equipment

strength training stations

4

25-yard pool

7

different types of GroupX classes offered during the Fall 2021 semester

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4,000+

3

Scan here to watch the video!

Gold sugar dust

INSTRUCTIONS COOK CAREINGLY Warm milk on medium until hot but not boiling; stir regularly.

Slowly stir in white chocolate chips until melted and thoroughly mixed with the milk.

FLAVOR FIERCELY Add in mint and vanilla extracts.

Add food coloring until desired color is achieved.

CONSTRUCT CREATIVELY Pour gold sugar dust on a small plate. Lightly dip the rim of the glass in the Merry Mint Cocoa, then onto the gold sugar dust for a golden rim.

Pour cocoa into glasses, and then top with whipped cream and green or gold sprinkles.

70+

square feet

basketball courts

2 tbsp. mint extract

50+

different intramural leagues or tournaments per semester

intramural participants per semester

45

student employees

personal trainers on staff

by the

numbers

The Lion Pride Career Closet was soft-launched in May 2021.

It is designed as a boutique-style shopping experience and is currently located in room 2017 of McGehee Hall. Students are able to make an appointment via sluwesley.org to assemble their new work-ready wardrobe at the Career Closet.

out there

The initiative is being managed by Wesley, a United Methodist-sponsored campus ministry open to all students and housed across the street from Southeastern’s campus.

Wesley Foundations are located at countless universities across North America and the United Kingdom. Along with the Career Closet, Southeastern’s Wesley Foundation also oversees the Southeastern Food Pantry; provides free lunch every Wednesday; operates a non-profit coffee shop, Kairos Koffeehouse; houses up to 12 students at a time; and provides student work and social opportunities.

“We always say we exist to serve the students, faculty, and staff of Southeastern body, mind, and soul, and this is such an amazing and much-needed way for us to do that,” said Guerra.

Lion Pride Career Closet

BY SHERI GIBSON

A new Southeastern initiative is outfitting students for career success.

For many college students in the U.S., financial worries are an everyday burden. And once all the costs associated with earning a degree are paid, both monetary and in terms of hard work and time, there can still be one more barrier to landing that first big job—the need for professional clothing.

According to a 2016 report from CareerBuilder, over a quarter of surveyed job seekers spent more than $200 on interview attire and other related expenses. While this might not feel like a significant hit to someone who is already in a financially stable position and able to invest in finding the next step in their career, it can hold back a student or recent graduate trying to progress on their path.

Upon identifying this problem, Southeastern—which has also been ranked as the number one university in Louisiana for least student loan debt, thanks in part to the Southeastern 20

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Wesley collects items for the Career Closet and then organizes and stores them at the Wesley Center until they are able to be displayed in the Career Closet. Donations of gently used professional clothing, shoes, and accessories for both men and women are requested to help serve as many students as possible. Drop-off sites are available on campus at the Southeastern Alumni Center and the Wesley Center, as well as across the region at Amite City Chamber of Commerce, Livingston Parish Literacy Center, Tangipahoa Chamber of Commerce, Ponchatoula Chamber of Commerce, FUMC Covington, St Tammany Chamber of Commerce in Covington, and the St Tammany Chamber of Commerce in Slidell.

“Students should know someone cares about them and their success, not just their academic success but their all-around success in life,” said Guerra. “After four or more years of hard work, clothing should not stop you from reaching that next step in your life.”

Promise, textbook rental program, and advanced scholarship opportunities—developed the Lion Pride Career Closet to meet this need. The Southeastern Wesley Foundation, Southeastern Foundation, and the Office of Career Services partnered together to provide professional outfits to members of the campus community.

“It’s something we all feel very strongly about—helping students be as successful as possible in every way,” said Melissa Guerra, associate director of the Southeastern Wesley Foundation. “We all know that professional clothing is expensive, but it’s especially so for college students who are barely making ends meet with part-time jobs. We wanted to be able to provide this service to help the Lion Nation look and feel confident going into a job interview, career fair, or even giving a class presentation after all the hard work they’ve been putting into getting their degree.”

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look at us now

THE SUNFLOWER A new entrance to the Sustainability Center features a bright focal point, the “sunflower.” Installed in March 2021 and consisting of 18 photovoltaic solar panels, 6 in the middle surrounded by 12 “petals,” the 26-foot structure generates a total of 5.25 KW of energy. This renewable energy powers an electric vehicle charging station and the Center’s Tesla Wall, which is used for testing storage energy. An edible landscape surrounds the sunflower and new entrance, demonstrating how edible plants can be used to create ornamental landscape.

Renee Picou ('16) and her father Lamar Picou ('79) reminisce about their days at Southeastern near their bricks in Friendship Plaza.

Southeastern’s Friendship Bricks solidify cherished memories and create lasting legacies in the heart of Southeastern’s campus.

BY OLIVIA GRAZIANO

Friendship Circle is the heart of campus, and its pulse is embedded in the memories of Southeastern’s students, alumni, and community friends. Nestled between the area’s legendary Friendship Oak and new Lion statue sits Southeastern’s Friendship Brick Plaza.

Graduation recognitions, memorials, marriage proposals and more line the pavement of the plaza. Under foot, the messages are both clever and sincere. Some engravings are cryptic, while others are obvious.

“UNIVE R SI T Y SO N I C E, I GRADUAT E D T W I C E LAUREN BU C H A N A N , M BA” “IN LOV I N G M E M ORY OF GLEN DAV I D H U N T E R 9/ 17/ 61- 9/ 19/ 19” “CH RIST I N A B R I SI N G RISING TO BE ”

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No matter the message, each brick shares one commonality: pride.

For ZYRIA GUILLORY, her brick symbolizes her proud journey of “firsts.” The Lafayette native earned a degree in business management and the title of first-generation graduate in spring of 2020. She was part of the first class to graduate during the COVID-19 pandemic, a group that will be remembered for their resiliency and perseverance. During her time at Southeastern, Zyria was also a member of the first Lionette Dance Team to win a national championship. “My brick inscription reminds me of all of the memories and important milestones I experienced at Southeastern. I'll forever be a Lion, and I can’t wait to visit my brick in Friendship Circle whenever I’m back on campus! “

For many families, bricks are a special way to honor their loved ones in a permanent way.

“ARTH UR & EVA H OOVER LOVE, GENNY, JAMES, & TH E CH ILDREN” “TH E SH ARP FAMILY LOVES TH E LIONS”

For the PICOU FAMILY, the Friendship Bricks they hold dear symbolize the family legacy they have created here at Southeastern. Alumni Lamar and Stacy gifted a brick to their daughter, Renee, as a reminder of her time and success she experienced while at the University.

“I thought it was the best thing ever for them to donate a brick with MY name on it,” said the former Miss Southeastern, Alpha Omicron Pi alumna, and member of the Thirteen Club. “It meant the world for my parents to gift it to me. It’s extra special for me because I’m a secondgeneration Lion!”

Renee grew up with Lion pride. Her mother is a former Southeastern Livingston Parish Alumni Chapter president and her father is a former Lions Basketball player, Thirteen Club member, and Roy E. Hyde Sociology Award honoree. In 2018, Stacy purchased a brick as a gift for her college sweetheart, cementing Lamar’s name and his accomplishments in Friendship Brick Plaza.

“Stacy surprised me with the brick one Christmas. What a unique gift!” recalls Lamar. “It was very touching to see my name on the campus where I played ball, studied, and then graduated. A kind of marker to show I was part of a great university. The Christmas present of that brick was super and totally unexpected! One I will never forget.”

Friendship Bricks are, indeed, an unforgettable gift, one that calls our Lion family back home to remember their time on campus.

Because of its proximity to Strawberry Stadium, Friendship Circle is a major part of the game day experience, and the bricks have become a fan favorite at football tailgates. It’s not uncommon to see Lion fans hunched over the concrete, searching for their brick, reading engravings of those they may know or studying a message that belongs to someone they’ve never met. One of the most memorable tailgate searches belongs to MEGAN AND HAYES WALKER, who got engaged at Friendship Brick Plaza in 2015.

The pair met in Dr. Laver’s military history class in spring of 2013. Hayes sat behind Megan, and his Theta Chi fraternity brother formally introduced them a few weeks into the semester. “Because we met and dated at Southeastern, I felt it appropriate to incorporate the University into the proposal," Hayes said.

While in college, some of Megan and Hayes’ favorite memories were centered around Homecoming. Hayes saw the event as an opportunity to pop the question and left a special note for his bride-to-be to find at the 2015 tailgate.

“M EG AN M B O N C K W I LL YO U MARRY M E ?

YO U R MA RI NE ”

When asked about the proposal experience, Megan describes it as being unreal. “Hayes had me unknowingly invite our friends and family to tailgate with us for the homecoming game. Of course, they were all in on it. Seeing the brick surrounded by friends, family, fraternity brothers and sorority sisters was just so surreal. It was something I never knew I wanted.”

Today, these Southeastern sweethearts have a little Lion at home and another on the way! They love knowing that their children can go see the brick whenever they visit campus.

DICKIE WHITSON has considered Southeastern home since 1968.

Fraternity events, football games, Friendship Oak, Homecoming festivities, and the lifetime friendships formed while at Southeastern are all wonderful memories the former Alumni Board president cherishes from his collegiate days.

“Southeastern has provided me a quality education and an enormous amount of enjoyment as both an undergrad and alum,” said the ’71 graduate who currently serves on the LAA board as well as countless Southeastern committees. “Now in my retirement, the University affords me the opportunity to benefit our studentathletes, fans, and alumni through volunteer service, all of which helps fill a huge void in my life since the passing of my beloved spouse, Sylvia, in 2011.”

His brick inscription recalls the treasured memories of being a newlywed living in an on-campus married student’s apartment with his wife in 1971.

OUR FIRST H OME SYLVIA & DICKIE 19 WH ITSON 71

“While I was completing my final semester, Sylvia would commute five days per week by car, bus, or train to New Orleans, where she was employed at Chevron Oil,” said Whitson remembering fondly. “On weekends we enjoyed quality time together and with friends.

After one semester there, we vowed to return one day to live in the Hammond area. That brick serves as a constant reminder to me of the humble beginning to my adult life, where together with Sylvia, Southeastern, and God was formed a solid foundation for a lifetime of success and happiness.”

The love, determination, and success denoted within these bricks showcase Southeastern’s strong foundation of caring and excellence.

Lion pride resonates through the engravings, celebrating the milestones, memories, and people that make our University great.

Cement your legacy on campus by purchasing a Friendship Brick at southeastern.edu/friendshipbricks.

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SOUTHEASTERN MAGAZINE

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27

athletics

COLE IN THE MAKING COLE KELLEY

Southeastern quarterback Cole Kelley continues to demonstrate excellence on the field, recently taking home the prestigious Walter Payton Award.

BY KEMMLER CHAPPLE

When the 2021 Southeastern football season kicked off on September 4 in Strawberry Stadium, the Lions featured the best player in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) under center.

Senior quarterback Cole Kelley received the Stats Perform Walter Payton Award—the Heisman Trophy of the FCS—in May. After the 2020 football season was moved to the spring of 2021, Kelley thrived in his first full season as the Southeastern starter.

The Lafayette, Louisiana, native threw for 2,662 yards, accounted for 27 touchdowns (18 passing, 7 rushing, and 2 receiving) and topped 300 yards passing in all seven games of the spring campaign on the way to being named the Southland Conference and Louisiana Offensive Player of the Year.

“Winning the Walter Payton Award has truly been a blessing,” Kelley commented. “I was honestly surprised when I found out I was a finalist, so when I won it meant a lot to me. But I looked at it as a team award, because without our receivers making plays when I get them the ball and our offensive line giving us time and room to execute, I wouldn’t be able to win any of these individual honors.”

Kelley’s teammates rejoiced in his victory, which made him only the third student-athlete in the history of the Southland Conference to take home the nation’s biggest individual prize.

“My teammates’ reaction might have been the best part of the

whole experience,” Kelley stated. “Everyone was so excited for me and congratulated me through calls, text messages, and social media. Our program is so special because of the family-like environment we have here at Southeastern. My teammates are my brothers.”

Heading into the fall, Kelley led a Lion team that featured a league-best 16 preseason all-conference selections, was ranked in the top 15 in every national preseason poll, and was picked to win the Southland Conference.

Last spring, Southeastern was one of the last four teams out of the FCS postseason field and all three of its losses came on the road to nationally-ranked opponents, including a narrow 43-38 defeat at eventual national champion Sam Houston in the season opener.

“We watched the playoffs last spring and knew we belonged on the biggest stage,” Kelley said. “We’re just focused on getting one percent better every day. We’ve proven we know how to handle adversity, but handling success will be our next challenge.”

Kelley started his collegiate career at Arkansas and came to Hammond prior to the 2019 season. After splitting time with then-starter Chason Virgil on the way to a FCS playoff berth, Kelley took over the reins as the full-time starter and has never looked back. His final season in Hammond this fall has also proven to be one to remember.

“Southeastern means the world to me,” Kelley commented.

“The people of our University and the Hammond community make Southeastern such a special place. God blessed me when he placed me here, and I couldn’t have picked a better place.”

Following the season, Kelley will look to become the third Lion selected in the NFL Draft since the return of football

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29

prior to the 2003 season. Kelley will be looking to join former Southeastern cornerbacks Robert Alford, a second round pick of the Atlanta Falcons in 2013, and Harlan Miller, who was selected in the sixth round of the 2016 draft by the Arizona Cardinals.

Southeastern head coach Frank Scelfo, who has coached in the NFL and also mentored several future pros on the collegiate level in a career that has spanned more than three decades, believes Kelley has a chance to perform at the next level.

“Kelley has demonstrated he can build on and improve what he did this spring,” Scelfo commented. "This fall they've been

A somewhat scientific polling of ALUMNI What do you usually do for dinner?

you said it

At the end of a long day, how do you like to unwind?

EAT A HOMECOOKED MEAL

STOP AT A DRIVE-THRU

you know it

70.98%

6.64%

looking to see if he can not only continue to perform at a high level, but does he show

A HARD WORKOUT

improvement in all facets of his game

3.18%

moving forward.”

DINE OUT

In August, Kelley was listed as one of 35 players on this year’s Walter Payton Award Watch List, a further indication of his potential for both more distinguished awards and a successful professional football career.

28.98%

POP SOMETHING FROZEN INTO THE MICROWAVE

13.99%

DINNER AND DRINKS WITH FRIENDS

CURLING UP WITH A GOOD BOOK

A TV MARATHON

ART OR CRAFTING

34.98%

3.53%

OTHER

15.90%

13.43%

8.39%

Which annual event did you most look forward to while attending Southeastern?

6.51%

52.87% RAVENCLAW

15.24%

FALL WELCOME WEEK

GRYFFINDOR

21.26%

40.10%

STRAWBERRY JUBILEE

HOMECOMING DAY

Which Harry Potter house are you?

HUFFLEPUFF

17.82% SLYTHERIN

8.05%

1.92%

14.09%

22.14%

THE BIG EVENT

OTHER

GUMBO YAYA

What is your favorite day of the weekend?

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SOUTHEASTERN MAGAZINE

17.61%

61.62%

20.77%

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

Most common write-in answers: Fanfare, theatre performances, Greek Week, first and last day of classes

What is your favorite festival food?

40.67%

FUNNEL CAKE

20.51%

ANYTHING FRIED AND ON A STICK

16.48%

KETTLE CORN

11.72%

ONION BLOSSOM

10.62%

COTTON CANDY

FA L L / W I N T E R 2 0 2 1

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Tinsley Learning Center for meetings due to the spaciousness and adaptability of the room.”

A College Reading and Learning Association certified lab, TLC offers a variety of educational resources where students are empowered to cultivate the skills needed for life-long learning.

These resources include tutoring by appointment, drop-in tutoring, supplemental instruction, the Speech Critique Hub, peer assisted study sessions, French and Spanish conversation hour, Capstone presentation assistance, and a variety of study skills workshops. In addition to the TLC, Tinsley Hall offers a student lounge, computer lab and student accessibility services.

More than 40 student workers are employed at the TLC during the fall and spring semesters, and students are taking advantage of and benefitting from the resources it offers.

The enhancement of TLC to better meet the needs of today’s students and offer a more visually welcoming space is a physical extension of Southeastern’s core values. As even the initialism reflects, TLC is intent on providing caring, as well as innovative, programs to help students achieve all of their goals.

Tinsley Learning Center

BY SHERI GIBSON AND TONYA LOWENTRITT

Southeastern’s new Tinsley Learning Center is helping enhance student learning opportunities and success.

Tinsley Hall reopened this past year after undergoing a suite of renovations. A campus landmark for over 60 years, its array of physical updates were designed to better meet the needs of today’s campus community—and to provide even more opportunities for deeper learning and increased academic achievement through its new Tinsley Learning Center.

The building has emerged as a student center that includes an expansion of the Center for Student Excellence along with transformed tutoring spaces, a computer lab, and an SGAfunded lounge and meeting room.

Greater energy efficiency was also a goal in the renovation of Tinsley Hall, with changes including replacement of the original single-paned glass with modern energy-saving windows.

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SOUTHEASTERN MAGAZINE

Along with contributing to Southeastern’s efforts to become an even greener and more energy-efficient campus, one feature of the freshly remodeled building, which sits adjacent to historic Friendship Circle, is also making an impact.

The Southeastern Tutoring Center was reimagined and renamed upon its reopening in Tinsley Hall in August 2020.

Measuring 3,076 square feet, the Tinsley Learning Center (TLC) is located on the second floor of the newly renovated building and creates a warm, welcoming space.

“The TLC overlooks the beautiful oak trees that line Friendship Circle,” said Marie Bernard, Tinsley Learning Center coordinator. “The Center has an abundance of natural light that the students and staff love. Many of our students remain in the TLC to study because they love the beautiful space and friendly environment. Several departments have utilized the

“Our impact on the academic success of our students cannot be overstated,” said Bernard. “One former client, for example, escorted two incoming freshmen to our office for introductions because our help was instrumental to his success as a student at Southeastern. He explained that when he was a student, he lived at the Tinsley Learning Center and wanted others to benefit from it as well.”

BY ALLEN CUTRER AND SHERI GIBSON

Southeastern alum and New Orleans jazz musician Craig Klein is making his mark on the city’s brass band tradition and earning recognition for it, including by taking home the music industry’s top honor.

Craig Klein embodies the spirit of New Orleans music—a unique mash-up of skill, soul, creativity, and endurance that draws from diverse influences. A class of ’84 marketing major who also played at Southeastern throughout his college career, he has combined the knowledge obtained from this degree with his talent and passion for jazz to achieve a highly successful and storied career as a professional musician. His most recent album with his band New Orleans Nightcrawlers helped solidify his place in the national spotlight, earning a Grammy.

A born musician, Craig grew up in New Orleans and embraced the area’s thriving arts scene from the time he was a small child.

His uncle Gerry Dallmann, whom Craig always looked up to, was a professional trombonist. By third grade, Craig had begun following in his footsteps—taking up the trombone himself.

Throughout his teenage years, he immersed himself in a world of improvisation, rhythm and swing, instruments, harmony, and form, often within the walls of Preservation Hall.

With the goal of being a professional musician but also enticed by the career opportunities of marketing, Craig began Southeastern in 1980. He was personally recruited by then Director of Bands Ron Nethercutt. Along with the personal faculty connection, Craig chose the University for its excellent music program and performance opportunities combined with an ability to achieve a solid foundation in marketing. The school’s convenient proximity to New Orleans’ rich music scene further enhanced the draw.

“[My time at Southeastern] kept me reading music. It really was a pivotal part of helping me to stay in music and keep my flow going because it provided me with the opportunity to continue playing,” Craig said.

Along with playing in several bands on and off campus while a student, Craig served as a member of Delta Tau Delta and as a KSLU DJ, helping implement a jazz program for the station. “When I started at KSLU there was no jazz program, so I went to the director and asked to start a jazz hour—or three hours. Because such a program didn’t yet exist, I started with Southern rock—which I knew nothing about—while we worked on creating the jazz program. Man, I love KSLU. You can bet every time I am driving down I-55 that I am tuning in!” Craig said.

In his free time, Craig often visited New Orleans, where he began discovering and falling in love with the brass band scene. His uncle Jerry, who had initially sparked his passion for music, convinced him to join his brass band The Paradise Tumblers. Enjoying his time with this band and ready for an additional avenue for creating and performing, Craig started The Storyville Stompers. This traditional brass band remains together to this day, performing over 6,000 times and secondlining in the streets of New Orleans for 40 years and counting.

By the time Craig earned his Southeastern degree in 1984, he had already begun making a name for himself. He performed regularly with his bands, while also using his marketing skills to sell real estate. Then in 1990 he was hired as trombonist for Harry Connick Jr. He soon embarked on an international tour, playing alongside the legendary musician for several years.

While Craig enjoyed performing with Harry and felt honored at the opportunity, the bug to channel his creative energy into projects of his own began chasing him. After leaving Harry’s band, Craig returned home to New Orleans and began implementing these new projects: Bonerama, The New Orleans Jazz Vipers, and a little side project called New Orleans Nightcrawlers.

Fellow current members of the Nightcrawlers are Matt Perrine, Kevin Clark, Barney Floyd, Jason Mingledorff, Brent Rose, Cayetano Hingle, Kerry Hunter, and Miles Lyons—the latter of whom also attended Southeastern before earning his own renown as a professional musician.

“The Nightcrawlers started as a side project because all nine people in this band are first-call players; it was almost impossible to book gigs for the Nightcrawlers because of our schedules. One person may be on tour here and another on tour there. So sometimes we would only play twice a year at French Quarter Fest and Jazz Fest, and that would be it all year long. When the pandemic suddenly hit, it cleared up space in everybody’s schedule. Then we received the [Grammy] nomination, and it blew it up,” explained Craig.

With natural talent, well-refined skills, and an unbreakable passion for creating and performing music, Craig may one day have another Grammy to add to his shelf. The Nightcrawlers have been hard at work on a new album, which is expected to drop before the end of the year.

Because of the acclaim received, the once side project has now become each member of the band’s main focus.

“Without Southeastern, we may not have had this opportunity,” he said. “Big thanks to Southeastern and the experience it gave me; it allowed me to play and learn and become a better musician.”

Craig and the Nightcrawlers' response to the pandemic and cancellations—and desire to still bring new music to people— is part of what helped them earn the nomination.

“We recorded this record in 2019 in three different sessions,” he said. “The idea was to put this record out for French Quarter Fest and roll with it. We liked it and knew it was a good one. When French Quarter Fest was canceled, everyone else was holding their records so they could use them for tour. But we decided to go ahead and put ours out so people could hear it.”

But despite the national acclaim, Craig remains humble, crediting Southeastern for helping him get to where he is today.

Scan here to explore more.

After hearing the record, titled Atmosphere, a local record producer and Recording Academy member submitted the Nightcrawlers for consideration for Best Regional Roots album for the 2020 Grammys. Craig commented how, after remaining dedicated to his calling for decades, he will never forget the moment he learned his passion project was nominated for the biggest honor in the American music industry.

“I’m in the grocery store shopping, buying some food. The next thing I know I’m getting messages saying we are nominated!

My phone was blowing up, and I was so excited in the store that I wanted to tell someone in person, so I walked up to one of the guys stocking shelves and tapped him on the shoulder.

I said ‘Hey man, can I share something with you?’ And from there, it just started unfolding,” Craig said.

The marketing savvy he obtained during his time at Southeastern and put into practice throughout his career to promote himself and his bands was utilized to help secure the win.

“There are only 10,000 people who can vote, and of the 80 categories, there are a limited number they can actually vote in. But they can choose where they want to vote,” Craig explained of the process. “For the category we were in, Best Regional Roots Album, we felt the need to really get the word out. We hired a publicist and began working the phones.”

On the night of the Grammys, the Nightcrawlers hosted a joint watch party with Cameron Dupuy and the Cajun Troubadours, a fellow New Orleans band nominated in the same category.

Because of COVID-19 restrictions, they were unable to attend the ceremony in Los Angeles, but still made the most of it at home in New Orleans—where it all began. Sitting on stage with their families behind them, the Nightcrawlers received word they had won Best Regional Roots Album for the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards.

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Department Head of Kinesiology and Health Studies Dr. Charity Bryan explained how this is preparing Southeastern students for the next step in their education, offering “a flexible curriculum to complete requirements for admission into physical therapy, physician assistant, dental hygiene, public health, and athletic training programs.”

Southeastern has already seen an interest in the program from the community. Bryan said, “The new Health Sciences program has proven very popular with over 235 majors.” In response to the growth and interest, Southeastern has welcomed new faculty members to “expand our class offerings and provide additional research opportunities for students.”

The faculty members are knowledgeable about the program and excited to share their knowledge with future health professionals. Professor of Health Sciences Dr. Ralph Wood said, “This is the perfect degree for students who want to pursue careers in public health and healthcare-related fields, such as health coaching and patient navigation.”

HEALTH SCI EN CES PRO GRAM Providing New Educational and Career Opportunities Across the Healthcare Industry

BY MARY GRACE KELLEY

A new program in Southeastern’s College of Nursing and Health Sciences is helping students achieve a strong, interdisciplinary foundation in healthcare, providing them flexibility to pursue fulfilling careers in a wide variety of healthcare settings.

The Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences program, part of the Kinesiology and Health Studies Department, began in the Spring of 2020 to help students broaden their knowledge and obtain a cutting edge in the ever-changing and multifaceted healthcare field. This contributes to not only better career opportunities for students but also a stronger workforce that is able to tackle the unpredictable challenges of today and tomorrow.

The Health Sciences degree will have a direct benefit to our local and state community. According to a study published in 2018 by the United Health Foundation, Louisiana was ranked the unhealthiest state. The program aims to help alleviate this problem. “The Health Science degree will allow graduates to specifically address health problems and help individuals pursue better health outcomes, improve health literacy, and make healthier choices for themselves and their families,” said Bryan.

health programming; health disparities; minority health; stress and health risk behaviors; and other research topics.

Students are encouraged to engage in learning opportunities beyond the classroom and interact with other students and health professionals through attending professional conferences. Some of the conferences include the National Health & Physical Literacy Summit, Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE), American School Health Association (ASHA), and American Public Health Association (APHA).

The career options post-graduation for students obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences are bright.

“Graduates will be prepared with a solid undergraduate foundation to pursue careers in public health, health education, and health coaching, as well as graduate study and/or professional degrees in pre-health, such as occupational therapy, physical therapy, physician assistant, dental hygiene, public health, and athletic training,” said Edwards. Students completing this program will be equipped to take the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) examination to become CHES certified.

For more information on Southeastern’s Health Sciences program, email carrie.edwards@southeastern.edu or visit southeastern.edu.

This program gives students the opportunity to pursue many career paths across the health field. It includes a solid foundation in public health courses including epidemiology and two course sequences on chronic disease management; a course solely focused on motivational interviewing and health coaching; and the necessary training to plan, implement, manage, and evaluate evidence-based programs.

The flexibility throughout the program offers students the opportunity to choose 22 hours of health science electives.

They can pick from courses in athletic training, biology, physics, chemistry, kinesiology, health systems management, psychology, nursing, microbiology, zoology, and family and consumer sciences. The electives provide students the option to complete coursework to gain prerequisites required for graduate school programs in athletic training, occupational therapy, physician assistant, physical therapy, or other allied health professions. Students can also complete the requirements to earn a certificate in digital health management or population health management. Program Coordinator Carrie M. Edwards said, “The 22 hours of electives provide a framework for students to not only complete prerequisites for graduate programs in the allied health sciences but also the flexibility to choose courses of interest in health and wellness to create a more holistic health degree.”

Students can collaborate with nationally recognized faculty through research opportunities. Faculty members within the program have research experience in health coaching and counseling; drug, alcohol, and tobacco prevention; chronic illness in children; nutrition and physical activity; worksite FA L L / W I N T E R 2 0 2 1

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giving back

Freda Oddo Green and Ruth Settoon Kenelly

BY SHERI GIBSON

Two beloved members of the Southeastern community have left a lasting legacy on students, the University, and those who knew them, embodying the spirit of giving back and of true Lion Pride.

Some people become members of our Southeastern Family by earning their degree here, some by joining the ranks of staff and faculty. Others are initially drawn to becoming part of the community on their own through a variety of reasons—an appreciation for or interest in helping boost the economic and cultural impact the University has on the region, the fun and welcoming atmosphere, a desire to help current students successfully achieve all of their goals, and even love.

This past year Southeastern lost two very special members of its community: Ruth Settoon Kenelly and Freda Oddo Green. Each became a deeply rooted member of the Lion Pride through a beautiful, social personality; a desire to give back; and love for a fellow Lion. And each left an indelible mark on the institution and on those who knew them.

Freda was a force of nature. Born January 19, 1923, as an only child, she was a woman before her time—independent, strong, hard-working, determined, and not afraid to speak her mind, but also always displaying an impeccable sense of fashion and etiquette.

Freda had a passion for teaching younger generations the importance of etiquette, for traveling, and for spending time with family and friends. Wherever she went, she would form lasting friendships with the people she met, and she traveled the world.

After living in New York and New Orleans, Freda moved to Hammond from Amite for the great granddaughter she raised, Michelle, who was attending Trafton Academy.

Freda was first introduced to campus through Michelle, whose school used the facilities at Southeastern for running track. As Freda increasingly became involved in the local community with organizations like the Greater Hammond Chamber of Commerce and her church, she began meeting proud Lions. Recognizing Freda’s talent for getting

RUTH SETTOON KENELLY

FREDA ODDO GREEN

things done, they invited her to join their activities at the University. When it was time for Michelle to enter college, she chose to attend Southeastern, strengthening Freda’s ties to and love for the University.

Freda had a strong philanthropic spirit, and she never hesitated to lend her time and talents to organizations across the region. At Southeastern, she served as a member of the Community Advisory Council, a charter and past board member of F.E.Lions (Female Enthusiasts for Southeastern Athletics), a past mentor of the Women’s Basketball team, and a member of the Columbia Theatre Advisory Board.

Ruth was born in Denham Springs, Louisiana, on July 13, 1929, to Carl Chambers and Lela Barnett Chambers, the latter of whom started the family’s Lion legacy by becoming a 1934 graduate of Southeastern. After graduating from Denham Springs High School, Ruth attended Baton Rouge Business College. In 1947, she married V.E. “Son” Settoon. The pair owned and operated a general goods store together in Springfield, Louisiana, for close to 40 years, until Son’s passing.

In April of 1990, Ruth married legendary Southeastern director of athletics and Hall of Fame coach Pat Kenelly, attending almost all Southeastern home football and baseball games from then on. She also became a warm friend, generous supporter, and advocate of Southeastern, getting to see her two daughters, three granddaughters, and a grandson-in-law earn their degrees from the University.

“Whether she was called ‘Mama Ruth’ or the ‘Queen of Hammond,’ to know her was to love her,” said Mary Hannah (Prevot) Johnson, her granddaughter and the prior assistant athletics director for athletic advancement at Southeastern.

As a loyal supporter of Southeastern over the years, Ruth made a profound impact on countless students and the University through the establishment of the Pat Kenelly

Endowed Scholarship in Baseball in 2004 and the naming of the Coach Pat Kenelly Baseball Diamond in 2006, along with additional annual program support. And, her memory keeps on giving through the newly initiated Ruth Settoon Kenelly Memorial Scholarship in Baseball, currently being funded by her devoted family and friends.

“Ms. Ruth was loved by her Southeastern Family,” added Wendy Lauderdale, vice president of University Advancement.

“She had a way of making everyone feel special. And, she had an amazing ability of always reaching out and showing love and support at just the right time. It was like she was emotionally connected to all of us.

“Ms. Ruth could usually be found having breakfast with one of the members of the Southeastern Family at Yellow Bird, a local establishment in Hammond. She invited President Crain every time, hoping to have yet another opportunity to let 'John' know just how special she thought he was. Ms. Ruth loved everything about Southeastern and Southeastern loved everything about Ms. Ruth. We have all been blessed to have known her and rest assured that her memory will live on for generations to come in the hearts of her Southeastern Family.”

KEEP I N G

class notes

'66 RANDOL PH M. H OW ES,

a retired surgeon, invented the Triple Lumen Venous Catheter. Since it was patented in 1978, the catheter has become the number one venous catheter in the world, helping save the lives of over 200 million critically ill patients worldwide.

' 89 K R IS F RYOUX, R N , B S N,

has been named director of the Telemetry and Medical/Surgical units at Lane Regional Medical Center.

She has over 31 years of healthcare experience and was the prior director of nursing at the NeuroMedical Center Rehabilitation Hospital.

' 73 S. G ARY POLOZO L A

recently published the book How to Stuff in Italian, consisting of recipes that were handed down through the generations of his Sicilian family.

The book was inspired by his strong appreciation of his family while growing up in Baton Rouge.

' 91 AMY LI NN was recognized by

Ochsner for her leadership as an advanced practice provider in 2020 and recently accepted a position at Magnolia Obstetrics. She consulted for Ochsner as a preceptor for medical, nurse practitioner, and nurse-midwifery students.

' 73 B R E N DA B E DSO L E R IC K S, the first female elected Judge in the 21st Judicial District since 1950, became chief judge in the tri-parish district of Tangipahoa, Livingston, and St. Helena parishes on January 1. She is working to establish a Veterans Court and a Mental Health Court.

'95 ST E P H A N IE L E IB E has been reappointed to the State Pension Review Board in Austin, Texas.

The board reviews all Texas public retirement systems, both state and local, for actuarial soundness and compliance with state law.

in touch '8 2 D O U G L A S SCH MIDT has served as the city clerk for the City of Mandeville, Louisiana, for the past 12 years. He is also the current president of the Louisiana Municipal Clerks Association.

'98 W E N DY M A L L A S has been promoted to the position of director of leisure sales and marketing at The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa in Avon, Colorado. She previously spent nearly 20 years launching new properties for Vail Resorts and overseeing the Ritz-Carlton Residences in Vail.

'10 JENNIFER BONAVENT URE, a nursing

graduate, was recently hired by North Oaks’ Magnolia Obstetrics as a certified nurse-midwife. She has worked for North Oaks since 2011, and in 2016 she was awarded the system’s Nurse Excellence Award.

'15 BECKY T ENNISON was

recently hired at Lakeview Regional Physician Group to work alongside a vascular surgeon to treat all vascular-related patients. She is also an acting member of the Louisiana Association of Nurse Practitioners and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.

'11

'13

JUL IET T E NESSMIT H

was named the vice president of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce in Texas. She has been with the Chamber for more than seven years and previously worked as the director of programs.

'15

KIMBERLY A MMONS

was recently appointed as principal of Praireville Primary School. She previously worked as a fourth and fifth grade teacher, a mentor teacher, an instructional coach, and an assistant principal.

' 13 SEAN GOWAN has been

named the 2020 St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office Deputy of the Year. He has previously mentored recruits, served as an active field training officer, and served as a member of the Field Training Officer Board.

'18

MICH A EL VINSA NAU, an expert journalist and communication specialist, has been named director of public information/public information officer for St. Tammany Parish government. He previously served as Northshore bureau chief at WDSU-TV.

MICH A LYN OURSO was recently appointed as Prairieville Primary School’s assistant principal.

She previously served as a science and social studies teacher, instructional coach, and a teacher coach at Prairieville Primary.

'20 J ULIE F. ZEN O was recently named program director at Apollo Behavioral Health Hospital. She previously worked as a managed healthcare professional, a director of mental health services, and a behavioral healthcare manager, in addition to being the founder of Live To Win Academy, LLC.

A LU M N I SP OT L IGH T ' 14 H A L EY A RCENEAUX, a physician assistant at St. Jude Children’s Research

' 9 9 & ' 19 LAUR A FR EEM AN was

recently appointed as assistant principal of Sugar Mill Primary School. She has previously worked as a mentor teacher, a master teacher, and has served at Galvez Primary, Central Primary, Sorrento Primary, and Donaldsonville Primary.

'01 & '07 AMANDA J ONE S, a teacherlibrarian at Live Oak Middle School, was recently named one of the 2021 national School Librarians of the Year by the School Library Journal. She recently joined the Louisiana Educator Advocacy Development Fellowship (LEAD) to help elevate student voices in Louisiana.

'07 B L A K E H E B E RT has

been named general manager of the General Cargo Division of Associated Terminals. He brings more than 13 years of experience in operations, logistics, and customer service to the position.

'0 9 TA R A M E LVI N has recently

been named the director of community partnerships and education at the New Orleans Opera. She plans to create opportunities for individuals to access and engage in the art form of opera and believes in the power of the arts to change people’s lives.

Hospital in Memphis, was selected as one of four crew members to visit space as part of Inspiration4, the first all-civilian mission to orbit Earth. As a former cancer patient who was treated at St. Jude, Haley was inspired by those who helped save her life to one day similarly help others. She recently became the first person with a prosthesis to visit space.

Inspiration4, named for the four-person crew and funded and commanded by Jared Isaacman, aims to help raise awareness and funds for St. Jude in addition to becoming a new milestone in human spaceflight and exploration. The crew flew on SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, launching from Kennedy Space Center on September 15 and returned to Earth on September 18. To learn more, visit inspiration4.com.

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See Yourself ?

96 YEARS, ONE PRIDE Many generations of students have not only earned their degrees but have formed unbreakable friendships and memories at Southeastern over the past 10 decades. These archival pictures impart a glimpse into some of their stories. If you know any names or specifics related to these snapshots, please share them by emailing editor@southeastern.edu.

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SOUTHEASTERN MAGAZINE

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