Alumni News Spring 2010

Alumni News S o u t h ea s t e rn L o uisi a na Uni ve rsit y • Hammond

INSIDE • • • •

Coping with a shrinking budget Admission standards increased Student cited nationally for playwriting Construction started on nursing structure

Spring 2010

Alumni News Southeastern Louisiana University Dr. John L. Crain ’82, ’84 President Dr. Tammy Bourg Provost/Vice President, Academic Affairs Stephen Smith ’76, ’82 Vice President, Administration & Finance Dr. Marvin L. Yates Vice President, Student Affairs Wendy Johns-Lauderdale '93 Vice President, University Advancement Alumni Association Kathy Locascio Pittman ’71 Director B.J. Lorio ’68 President Rita Bertolino ’78, ’96 President-elect Tony Schillage ’88 Treasurer Steve Parrill ’96, ’98 Secretary Board Members Gwen Barsley ’73, ’76 Dick Covington ’71 Marcia King Galatas ’79 Richard Himber ’00, ’02 George Ibert ’70 Pat Macaluso ’70 Emily McKneely ’02 Bill Murray ’76, ’78, ’01 Gayle Neal ’74 Stacey Duvic Neal ’91 Reggie Sanders, ’93 The Southeastern Louisiana University Alumni News, published four times annually by the Association, was entered as third-class matter, May 9, 1949, at the Post Office in Hammond, LA, under the amended act of June 11, 1934. The office of publication is Hammond, LA 70402. Annual dues of $30 include subscription to Southeastern Alumni News.

Produced and edited by the Southeastern Louisiana University Office of Public Information.

cover Zachary Boudreaux, a Southeastern junior communication student from Walker, won one of the top awards given by the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival for his original play Parking Lot Babies. He credits the mentoring he received from his Southeastern theater instructor and the input and collaboration from the cast and crew for his success. Read the story about this young man's accomplishments on page 1.

A message from President John L. Crain “Do more with less.” That’s a phrase heard frequently, especially in times of tightened budgets that universities as well as many businesses are facing during this period of economic downturn.

Like other colleges and universities in Louisiana, Southeastern sustained its third consecutive budget cut in fewer than 18 months, reducing our state appropriation by a total of nearly $14 million. That is a very significant reduction to absorb in a relatively short period of time. It has required reductions in nearly every expense category: supplies, travel, maintenance and acquisitions and the elimination of approximately 100 vacant positions and the termination of 45 employees.

“Doing more with less,” is not an easy task, especially for an institution of higher learning where the biggest expenditure is in instructional personnel. So far, Southeastern has avoided major reductions in our faculty or cuts in academic programs.

However, budget reductions to date in combination with anticipated future reductions mean we are looking closely at our programs and will make some truly serious decisions about what we offer. As part of a strategic budget planning process, the university assembled two task forces to develop criteria to evaluate both academic and non-academic outreach programs. These criteria will be used to make data-based decisions about reductions in programming.

In this issue of Alumni News, we look at how Southeastern is managing its tightening budget, while always keeping in sight our ultimate goal of helping students succeed.

We hope that our alumni will help us maintain the level of academic success that Southeastern has achieved by joining with their colleagues and becoming a member of our new ROAR Network. Your alma mater needs your support like never before.

A message from your Alumni president In my last message, I mentioned that soon you would be asked to stand up for your university and let your voice be heard. That time has come. The Louisiana legislature has continued to badger higher education through astronomical budget cuts. A few years ago, the state told us that the engine that drove economic development was education. What happened? When did that change?

Recently the Alumni Association implemented the ROAR Network, but this time roar doesn’t stand for our normal, spirited lion’s roar. Instead ROAR is an acronym for Reach Out, Advocate, Rally. This ROAR Web site will allow you to learn more about what is going on concerning the budget cuts and how they will affect your university. It is a user friendly site and can be accessed by clicking on www.selu.edu/alumni/roar. By joining ROAR, you can receive messages about what is happening as it is happening, and find ways to assist or voice your opinion to those that can make a difference in the decision making for our state.

B.J. Lorio '68

This university has been led by leaders that were pioneers in running our alma mater as a business. Their wise business acumen made us efficient and lean before others.

The students we serve are mostly working individuals who want to make a better life for themselves, their families and our communities. Southeastern helped you. Now it’s your turn to stand up for Southeastern. ROAR!

Members of the cast and crew of the award-winning play Parking Lot Babies take a break during rehearsal.

The play, written by a Southeastern communication student, has won numerous awards.

Student recognized nationally for original play Zachary Boudreaux, a Southeastern student from Walker, added a national accolade to his collection of awards for his play Parking Lot Babies when he was named in March as one of three students to a National Selection Team Fellowship by the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival.

That means Boudreaux will travel to Washington, D.C., for the National Festival at the Kennedy Center in April, where he will participate in master classes and workshops presented by some of the top writers in the country and attend the productions at the festival. Boudreaux will also have the chance to interview for internships with theaters across the country.

“It’s a great opportunity and a very impressive achievement for a young writer,” said Jim Winter, a Southeastern theater instructor who originally directed Boudreaux’s play. “As a playwright myself, I would have done anything for this opportunity.

Zach deserves all the accolades he is getting.”

Boudreaux was cited for his playwriting skills at the KCACTF state festival in November and in February at the regional event in Amarillo. The play, considered by KCACTF as one of the top 12 university productions, also received awards for graphic design, theatrical production, and support of original works.

“The cast and crew are responsible for this success, hands down,” said Boudreaux. “Without all the creative collaboration and input from all involved, none of this would have been possible. They brought their respective characters to life.”

Boudreaux, a junior communication major who plays one of the leads, said the play is about a young man trying to write about his relationship with his girlfriend.

“It’s about ‘20-somethings’ and their lives after high school,” he said. “The idea came from observations of my own friends’ experiences and their stories that I’ve fused together.”

Winter said Boudreaux brought the play to his attention a

couple of years ago, and “I sort of mentored it along. I knew as soon as I read it that it was good. Then I had some students do a live reading, and that confirmed my original thoughts. The students were buzzing about the script.”

“Jim has really been great to work with,” Boudreaux said.

“I’ve gotten the chance to meet many directors, playwrights and actors and I can tell you, humility matched with an incredible amount of experience is a rare trait to have in this business. Jim is the model for that.”

Getting to the Amarillo festival was not easy; due to Southeastern’s budget cuts, travel funds were severely restricted.

“I told the students we would not be able to make the trip to the festival,” Winter said. “They met on their own and said they would raise the money. And they did; they raised approximately $9,000 from parents, friends and other students. A lot of people believed in this group and this play and wanted to see it performed at the regional festival. We all traveled to Amarillo in a caravan of seven vehicles.”

The next step? Winter will continue to work with Boudreaux as he polishes Parking Lot Babies to take it to its final form. Next year he expects the play to be published.

“Then Zach will start getting paid royalties when the play is performed by other groups,” Winter said. “That’s a great accomplishment for a student.”

“I am continually dazzled by the talent and dedication of our theater students and faculty, who have confirmed what many have already noticed: Southeastern theater more than holds its own against larger and longer-established theater programs,” said David Evenson, head of the Department of Music and Dramatic Arts. “A special comment must be reserved for Zach, who in his debut as a playwright has contributed a vital addition to the theater repertory with his brilliant play.”

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While cuts to its operating budget have been significant, Southeastern has remained focused on maintaining its core academic mission.

Coping with shrinking dollars Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal’s proposed executive budget for fiscal year 2010-2011 contained no new reductions for higher education institutions.

The announcement triggered a collective sigh of relief from the state’s colleges and universities, which have been hit with three budget cuts in the last year and a half.

And while the Legislature – which began meeting in March – will have considerable input into the final budget, the governor’s announcement was the first good news about budgets the higher education community has heard in months. However, a possible revenue shortfall for the rest of the fiscal year announced in March carries the threat of additional reductions in the future.

After the cuts in state allocations – amounting to approximately $250 million statewide and nearly $14 million to Southeastern alone – the public institutions have been operating with about 17 percent fewer dollars from the state, a figure that has cut significantly into Southeastern’s operations.

“We’re grateful that the governor chose to spare higher education from further direct budget reductions,” said Southeastern President John L. Crain. “We are aware, however, that this is just the beginning of the process; some legislators are saying that additional cuts may be necessary.”

He said projections for the 2011-2012 fiscal year point to even greater financial challenges for the state due to the loss of federal stimulus funds and a major increase in Medicaid costs.

The cumulative impact of the cuts on Southeastern so far has meant the elimination of 99 faculty and staff positions, the termination of 45 employees, faculty and staff furloughs and significant reductions or elimination of funds for equipment and library acquisitions, travel, supplies, maintenance and repairs, 2

and athletics.

The latest budget cut in December affected academic areas as well, causing the reduction or reassignment of more than 40 courses taught by part-time faculty.

“This is a concern for a number of reasons,” Crain explained, “including possible non-compliance with accreditation standards in some areas, loss of revenue from eliminated courses, and a reduction in course availability that will impact students.

“These were hard decisions to make,” he added, “and we particularly regret the impact the terminations have had on our colleagues. Unfortunately, we had no choice.”

The Southeastern president has been open in his communications about the impact of the cuts. Through communications with faculty, staff and students, interviews with the news media, talks to community groups and meeting directly with legislators and other elected officials, Crain has outlined the crisis in clear, unvarnished terms.

“If there had been any fat in the university’s budget, it has been cut in the three reductions,” he noted. “Pretty much everything we cut from now on is people and programs,” he said.

LaPERC Commission The budget reductions are having a significant impact on the future of higher education in the state, forcing discussions about governing boards and how colleges and universities are funded.

The Louisiana Postsecondary Education Review Commission (LaPERC), a body authorized by the Legislature last year, met several times and developed a number of recommendations for legislative action. Among the recommendations are a reduction in the number of governing boards for the higher education systems, moving authority to set tuition and fees from the Legislature to the institutions themselves with some restrictions, an

emphasis on improving graduation rates, and a shift in funding philosophy of institutions based more on performance and less on enrollment.

LaPERC also recommended a review and refinement of each institution’s role, scope and mission and a review of academic programs for quality, non-duplication, cost effectiveness and workforce and economic development alignment.

In a related move, Gov. Jindal unveiled a proposal to give institutions more control over tuition and fees. The Louisiana GRAD Act (Granting Resources and Autonomy for Diplomas) would allow institutions some flexibility to raise tuition, eventually, to the average of their southern regional peers, as long as they meet certain performance goals: increasing admission standards and graduation rates, eliminating low completer programs, and phasing out developmental education at four-year institutions.

Louisiana is one of only a few states where the Legislature continues to set tuition for colleges and universities.

“This is an unprecedented time for higher education,” Crain said. “We cannot stick our heads in the sand and hope this just goes away.”

Strategic approach to budgeting Crain said the university is taking a strategic approach to budget planning that involves evaluation of both academic and non-academic outreach programs for possible reductions or elimination.

Other parts of the plan include increasing the use of appropriately qualified non-tenured instructors and parttime faculty, evaluating faculty and staff workloads and assignments, and offering early retirement incentives for some highly-paid tenured faculty.

“As a result of the budget reductions, Southeastern has fewer resources, and consequently we are shrinking the operational footprint of the institution to better fit our limited resources,” he said.

“Despite the challenges we face, we are absolutely committed to the success of our students and the ongoing viability of the university. Our decisions will always be based on what is in the best interest of the university and our students.”

He said by focusing on student success, Southeastern will meet the higher expectations being set for higher education by the state.

ROAR Network to advocate for Southeastern Southeastern is calling on its friends to join the new ROAR Network.

An acronym for “Reach Out, Advocate, Rally,” the online network was created through a partnership with the Alumni Association and the university to aggressively support Southeastern, especially in the legislative arena.

“The ROAR Network was established to engage our university’s greatest assets – our alumni and community friends – to bolster support for our proud institution and to make certain our institution’s message is heard loud and clear,” said Southeastern President John L. Crain and B.J. Lorio, president of the Alumni Association, in a joint announcement.

The network cooperates with the university administration in a coordinated effort to make certain supporters are kept abreast of legislative issues that can and will impact higher education in general and Southeastern in particular, according to Erin Cowser, executive assistant to President Crain.

“The network was created as a means to provide information and engage its members in the legislative process,” she added. “It is maintained through the university’s non-profit alumni association as an educational outlet.”

Open to alumni, parents, students, faculty, staff and friends of the uni “With increased importance placed on graduation rates, we are concentrating our efforts on recruiting students who have the preparation necessary to succeed in the university environment,” he said. (See related story, page 4.)

Crain expects the university to continue to serve the region, even with its shrinking resources.

“We are fortunate that Southeastern serves a dynamic region of the state.

Unlike much of our state and country,

versity, ROAR is designed to unite the Southeastern “family” in advocacy efforts on behalf of the university.

Cowser stressed that although faculty, staff and students are welcome and urged to participate, their universityprovided email addresses should not be used to register for or access the network.

An initial invitation to join was sent to alumni with active email addresses with the Alumni Association.

Those registering will be invited to participate in programs to enhance the image of Southeastern and thereby influence legislation and other legal or policy changes to benefit the university.

In addition, ROAR members will be invited to indicate relationships they already have with elected officials.

“From time to time, members may have the opportunity to reach out to elected officials to voice concerns, critique or compliment their actions regarding proposed legislation,” she said.

The network Web site, www.ciclt. net/southeastern, provides access to information on the status of bills that could impact Southeastern, as well as news articles with pertinent information. Individuals can join by visiting the Web site and completing the on-line form.

southeast Louisiana continues to show growth and economic promise. Our future as a university is inextricably tied to the future of this region.

“I believe we must remain focused on serving the region and ensuring the success of our students and other constituents. I have no doubt we ultimately will succeed and prosper if we remain committed to these objectives; but it will take all our energy and effort to do so,” he said.

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Southeastern increases admission standards for fall 2010

Professor of Nursing and Interim Department Head Cynthia Logan talks with Crystal Cavalier, a senior at Baton Rouge Magnet High School, at Scholars Showcase. Listening in are Crystal's parents, Joseph and Pamela Cavalier. With a state emphasis on improving graduation rates, Southeastern has made recruitment of well prepared students a priority.

Southeastern is increasing its admission standards for the 2010 fall semester, a move approved in February by the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors.

The major changes approved are increases in the minimum high school grade point average from the current 2.0 GPA to 2.5, or an ACT composite score from the current 20 to 21, or placement in the top 25 percent of the student’s high school class versus the 50 percent placement now required.

In addition, students cannot have a GPA below 2.0, require no more than one developmental course and must have completed the state Board of Regents Core Curriculum.

“This is a change we have been evaluating for some time,” said President John L. Crain. “It has always been planned as the next step designed to improve our graduation rate.”

He stated that the admission status of any students already accepted and who do not meet the new criteria would not be affected.

“With increased importance being placed on graduation rates, we are sharpening our focus on recruiting students who possess the academic preparation to succeed in a university environment,” Crain said. “We are moving aggressively, ahead of the recommended timelines to accelerate improvement in our graduation rate.”

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Crain said the best indicator of a student’s success is his or her preparation in high school.

Southeastern moved from an open admission institution to one with admission standards in 2000, ahead of requirements set out in the Louisiana Master Plan for higher education. The university gradually increased its standards until reaching its current criteria in 2005.

“We did see a slight decrease in enrollment each time new admission standards were introduced, and we expect to see some decrease this fall,” he said. “In time, however, we would expect enrollment to stabilize with the increased retention and progression of the better prepared students we are recruiting.”

Crain said new performance measures will likely have universities focus on the number of students who successfully progress and eventually graduate rather than the number enrolled.

Crain explained that in addition to adding admission standards, Southeastern has introduced a number of initiatives designed to improve student success. These include additional student support services, such as enhancements in academic advising and tutoring, a Web-based academic program mapping system that students begin using at freshman orientation, a redesign of freshman math courses

that incorporate technology to provide students with instant feedback on their work, and a mandatory freshman success course designed to help connect students with the university and guide them through their transitional first semester.

He said as the state moves increasingly toward performance-based funding for colleges and universities, it is vital that institutions like Southeastern continue to find ways to utilize limited resources as efficiently and effectively as possible.

“These are unprecedented times for higher education in Louisiana,” he added.

“We are working to ensure the continued success of Southeastern in its unique role to serve the dynamic region of southeast Louisiana.”

Crain said that with the expansion of the state’s community college network, students who do not qualify for admission to Southeastern will have access to postsecondary educational opportunities with the option of transferring to Southeastern or other four-year institutions once their basic course work is completed.

He added that, as the university has done every time admission standards were increased, Southeastern will work closely with high schools in the area to inform counselors and students about the changes and with area community colleges to ensure student access to postsecondary education.

New standards adopted

The new admission standards approved for Southeastern go into effect for the Fall 2010 semester.

Grade Point Average - 2.5 OR ACT Composite Score - 21 OR Top 25% of high school class AND A GPA no less than 2.0 AND No more than one developmental course AND Completion of the Board of Regents Core Curriculum

Kinesiology expansion Construction initiated for nursing addition

Worksite clearing has started and construction will soon begin on an addition to the Southeastern Kinesiology and Health Studies building that will house the university’s nursing program.

The $13 million project is funded by state capital outlay monies. The project, which has been on the drawing board for several years now, will add nearly 35,000 square feet of offices and classroom space to the current 55,500 square foot building.

When completed in spring 2011, the School of Nursing will move into the facility, making it the new home for the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, the School of Nursing, and the athletic training program. Currently the School of Nursing is housed in Mims Hall, a two-story facility built in 1948 as a dormitory. The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, another element of the college, will remain in its current location in Campbell Hall.

The contractor for the construction work is D. Honore Construction, Inc. of Baton Rouge, and architects were Holly and Smith of Hammond.

“It is a long overdue and much needed project,” said Southeastern President John L. Crain. “The addition has been in the planning stages for nearly a decade and has gradually moved up the state’s priority list for capital outlay projects.”

The state’s capital outlay budget is different from the general operating budget, which has seen significant cuts in the last two years due to a tightening of state revenues. Under the state capital outlay process, agencies and institutions submit proposals that undergo tight scrutiny, then are prioritized according to need.

The last state-funded capital outlay construction program on

Southeastern’s campus was the renovation of the Science Annex Building on the south end of the campus. That project was completed in 2007.

“The School of Nursing is one of Southeastern’s foremost academic programs, supplying much needed health professionals for our area,” Crain said. “The nursing shortage continues to impact the operations of area health care facilities. This program serves as an important workforce development initiative for our region and state.”

Barbara Moffett, interim dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, said the two-story facility will include state-ofthe-art, technology-rich classrooms, as well as the latest simulation laboratories to enrich nursing education.

“We’re excited about the prospect of a new facility that will enhance the teaching and learning environment for our students,” Moffett said. “Having more of the college under one roof will provide us with a more efficient operation and promote greater faculty collaboration. It also allows us to better accommodate the increased numbers of students choosing a major in kinesiology, health studies or nursing.”

In addition to the building on the Hammond campus, the School of Nursing operates a center in Baton Rouge where many upper-level students have the opportunity to attend classes. The program also offers numerous clinical opportunities for students at hospitals and health care facilities in Baton Rouge and the north shore parishes.

Established in 1963, the program has over 1,800 majors and annually graduates approximately 150 undergraduates and 15 to 20 masters level nurses in functional areas such as nurse educator, administrator and nurse practitioner.

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Campus Headlines Bourg appointed provost

Tammy Bourg, who has served in an interim capacity as provost and vice president of academic affairs at Southeastern since June 2008, has been named permanently to the position following a nationwide search.

Bourg, a native of Dulac, La., served as dean of the Southeastern College of Arts and Sciences from 2003 to 2005 and as dean of the new College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences from 2005-2008. She is also a professor of psychology.

“We are pleased to have Dr. Bourg serve as the university’s chief academic officer,” said President John L. Crain.

“She has proven herself over the past 18 months in helping Southeastern maintain its level of academic excellence in the face of significant budget cuts. Her strong background in teaching and research and her experience in

handling faculty and academic issues made her the ideal candidate for this position.”

“I’m honored to have been selected to serve as Southeastern’s provost,” said Bourg. “While we have challenging times ahead of us, I will work diligently with President Crain, the other university administrators, faculty, and staff to ensure Southeastern continues to provide high-quality academic programs for our students. Aside from dealing with the current budgetary situation and its impact on academic programs and operations, our primary immediate focus will be to develop further initiatives designed to increase graduation rates and the academic support students need to be successful while maintaining academic quality and rigor.”

Prior to joining Southeastern, Bourg served on the psychology faculty at California State University, Sacramento, for 17 years and headed its Department of Psychology during her last four years there.

In 1992 and 1993, she was a visiting scholar at the Center for Research in Learning, Perception, and Cognition at the University of Minnesota.

Bourg holds doctorate and master’s degrees in psychology, with a specialization in child development, from the University of Houston and an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of New Orleans.

New e-brochure to aid recruitment Southeastern has launched an electronic brochure to enhance its student recruitment efforts.

The Web-based brochure can be viewed at www.selu.edu/ebrochure.

“Most perspective students today are evaluating colleges and universities, at least in part, by their on-line presence,” said Tammy Bourg, Southeastern provost and vice president for academic affairs. “In addition to our general Web site, which provides comprehensive details on all aspects of the university, we wanted to have an on-line brochure to give prospective students a quick overview of Southeastern.”

The new Web site includes pages that address general information and “quick facts” about Southeastern, including information about admissions, financial aid, tuition and fees. Also included are brief academic department-by-department profiles and pages dedicated to student organizations, athletics and general student life.

“We recognize that today’s students want information that is on-line and easily retrievable,” said Jeff Rhodes, dean of enrollment management. “We designed this site to achieve that goal, providing links that students can go to for additional information.”

The new site eventually will replace the university’s traditional “viewbook,” which was generally used at high school recruiting visits and in response to inquiries from prospective students.

Southeastern's spring enrollment shows increase over last year Total enrollment for the spring semester at Southeastern is up over last year, according to university officials.

According to official records, 14,117 students are enrolled in spring classes, which got underway Jan. 19. Compared to last spring’s enrollment of 13,447, this represents an increase of five percent. Spring enrollment at most colleges and universities is traditionally less than fall enrollment, which at Southeastern 6

this past fall was 15,160. Compared to last spring, the overall number of freshmen is up eight percent. New graduate students increased nearly 12 percent.

“We are very pleased about the enrollment figures for spring,” said John L. Crain, president. “In spite of the well publicized budget challenges we are facing in higher education, students continue to be attracted to the academic programs Southeastern offers. We have

remained committed to our core academic mission and student success and have prioritized that mission while managing budget cuts.”

St. Tammany Parish continues to be the top feeder parish for the university with 3,174 students enrolled this spring. The other top parishes include Tangipahoa, 2,337 students; East Baton Rouge, 1,960; Livingston, 1,765; Jefferson, 943; and Ascension, 801.

Campus Headlines Study confirms Maurepas Swamp in danger

Without a diversion from the Mississippi River or the introduction of other sources of fresh water in the near future, the Maurepas Swamp in southeast Louisiana will continue on a clear path toward becoming marsh and open water, a new study by Southeastern biologists and other scientists confirms.

Writing in the Journal of Coastal Research, Gary P. Shaffer, professor of biological sciences, notes that the Maurepas Swamp complex, the second largest coastal forest in Louisiana, has been radically reduced due to excessive logging, development, changing water levels, nutrient deprivation and saltwater intrusion. The paper was co-authored

with other scientists from Southeastern and LSU. “Much of the swamp is in a severe state of deterioration,” Shaffer said.

He explained the establishment of levees over the last century along the Mississippi River to eliminate natural flooding removed a once reliable source of fresh water, sediments and nutrients that healthy swamps require.

“This has enabled salt water from the Gulf of Mexico to make further inland intrusions,” he said. “Consequently, most of the swamp appears to be in transition to marsh and open water.”

The findings are based on comparisons of selected sites in the Lake Maurepas wetlands with different levels of water quality. Salinity levels appeared to be the main factor causing sites to deteriorate.

“The Maurepas Swamp is in a steady state of rapid decline, and that’s evident by the loss of much of the baldcypress and water tupelo forests that were a mainstay of the swamp,” Shaffer said.

A Mississippi River diversion – under

study for several years now by the Environmental Protection Agency and scientists at Southeastern and LSU – would decrease the salinity, increase the levels of nutrients, and provide much needed sediment necessary to rebuild the subsiding swamp, Shaffer explained.

“It is likely that influences of freshening would be felt in wetlands as distant as Lake Pontchartrain,” he said. “Even the smallest diversion would replace all of the water in Lake Maurepas twice each year, and it can only exit to Lake Pontchartrain.”

The study also evaluated the region following the 2005 hurricanes, with the scientists concluding that the extensive lateral root systems of baldcypress and water tupelo can hold an entire ecosystem together, while also serving as valuable natural storm buffers.

“If we want to reverse the decline of coastal swamps, we have to find and use sources of fresh water that currently are being wasted, including water from the Mississippi River, as well as treated sewage effluent,” he said.

Delgado graduate discovers easy transition to Southeastern After working as an income tax preparer for a number of years, Dana Alfred believed she could do so much more with a better education.

“I realized how much I enjoyed helping customers,” said the Slidell resident.

“So I became very eager to learn more about accounting.”

Alfred enrolled in Delgado Community College taking courses in Slidell and New Orleans. With a career path in mind, she wasted no time andtargeted the classes she would need to earn an associate’s degree in accounting. Last fall, she enrolled at Southeastern to begin work on her bachelor’s degree in accounting.

She is one of a growing number of students in Louisiana taking advantage of an expanding community college system to earn credit and associate degrees before transferring to four-year

institutions. Articulation agreements and close relationships between the colleges and four-year institutions are making that transfer as smooth as possible.

“We welcome transfers from community colleges,” said Tammy Bourg, Southeastern provost and vice president for academic affairs. “Southeastern has a long history of working with our two-year partneers through articulation agreements, 2+2 programs and other arrangements. This cooperative spirit makes the transition of these students nearly seamless.”

“The transfer to Southeastern was easier than I expected,” Alfred said. “I qualified to enter as a junior and this allowed me to take upper level classes.”

Alfred is making her mark in her short time at Southeastern. Last fall she made a 3.75 grade point average and earned a place on the President’s List.

“Dana has transitioned very successfully to Southeastern’s College of Business and continues to excel academically,” said Lynn Stirling, management instructor. “She is a very focused student with clearly defined academic goals. She has demonstrated the motivation and initiative to ensure she’ll reach her academic goals.”

Alfred said she appreciates the support she has received since transferring to Southeastern.

“This is my second semester and I feel right at home,” she said. “The students are friendly and helpful. An iIf there is one word I could use to describe the faculty, it would be ‘passionate’. Every instructor is highly connected to what they teach. You can tell they love what they are teaching and are able to relate their subject matter to what is going on in our society today.”

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Faculty and Staff News Historian recognized with Hardeman Prize for book Keith M. Finley, an instructor of history and the assistant director of the Center for Southeast Louisiana Studies, has been awarded the D.B. Hardeman Prize for his book Delaying the Dream: Southern Senators and the Fight against Civil Rights, 1938-1965.

The prize, named after Congressional researcher and assistant to Speaker of the House Sam Rayburn, includes a $2,500 award given by the Lyndon B. Johnson Foundation for what is considered “the best book that focuses on the U.S Congress, from the fields of biography, history, journalism and political science.”

Prize candidates are judged on the importance of an author’s contribution to scholarship on the Congress, as well as literary craftsmanship, origi-

nality and depth of research.

“It’s an honor to be recognized by a distinguished national panel that included people inside and outside of the university setting,” said Finley.

Published in 2008, Finley’s book focuses on the purposeful delay of Civil Rights advancement by Southern Senators.

As the realization occurred that the Jim Crow laws were at risk, segregationists devised new tactics to impede the progress of civil rights reform.

Finley’s work discusses the successful tactics used by Southern senators as well as the Constitutional defenses used to maintain their policy, laws and beliefs.

“Delaying the Dream is the product of research I began while working on my master’s degree at Southeastern and finished as a graduate student at LSU,” Finley said. “The award reflects on the quality of the education provided at both those institutions.”

SBDC at Southeastern recognized with awards The Louisiana Small Business Development Center awarded the SBDC at Southeastern two awards – including its prestigious “Big Deal Award” – at its meetWayne Ricks ing in Lafayette.

The “Big Deal Award” recognized the Southeastern center’s comprehensive retail study of the Hammond area that has served as a critical marketing tool to recruit major new retailers to the city.

“We’re proud to be recognized for our efforts to enhance economic development in the area,” said William Joubert, director of the center. “This was a massive project that required considerable research and work by our staff, but it has paid off with the introduction of several new area businesses and a boost in construction and permanent jobs.”

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Assisting the SBDC in crafting the study were representatives of the City of Hammond, the Southeastern Business Research Center, members of the College of Business, including Dean Randy Settoon, John Giamalva, Rusty Juban, and Robert Cope, and SBDC business consultant Wayne Ricks.

The state group also recognized Ricks, naming him to the Million Dollar Club for the second consecutive year.

Ricks’ efforts helped area businesses obtain nearly $1.5 million in financing to initiate or expand operations.

An SBDC consultant since 2005, he assists clients with start-up and existing businesses, executes business plans and assists in gaining financing. He also works with area economic development agencies.

He is a Southeastern graduate with a degree in finance and a master of business administration degree.

Parton, Hancock honored for technology innovations

Becky Sue Parton and Robert J. Hancock, assistant professors in the Department of Educational Leadership and Technology, were recognized as the Technology Educators of the Year by the Louisiana Technology Council.

They received the award for their development of a technology system to improve instruction in sign language for deaf children.

Their system, the Language Acquisition Manipulatives Blending Earlychildhood Research and Technology, (LAMBERT), links radio frequency identification tags to common objects to help deaf children learn American Sign Language more efficiently.

Parton was also named this year’s Postsecondary Educator of the Year for Region 2. The award is sponsored by the Louisiana Association of Computer Using Educators (LaCUE), a professional nonprofit organization which promotes the use of computer technology in education.

Compton appointed to State Dietetics Board Terry Compton, a diabetes educator with Southeastern’s School of Nursing, has been appointed

by Gov. Bobby Jindal to the Louisiana State Board of Dietetics

and Nutrition.

The seven-member board regulates the practice of dietitians and nutritionists by granting licenses to qualified applicants. Compton was nominated by the state nursing association.

Prior to joining the faculty in 2006, she was the diabetes nurse coordinator at Children’s Hospital in New Orleans for 16 years. She is a certified diabetes educator and currently is president of the Southeast Louisiana Association of Diabetes Educators.

Association News Alumni hosts reception for Opera/Music Theatre alumni The Alumni Association hosted a reception in October for Opera/Music Theatre Workshop alumni who returned to celebrate the Music Department’s 75th Anniversary with a gala at the Columbia Theatre. Alumni and current students performed arias, songs and scenes from favorite operas and Broadway shows. Former faculty member and workshop founder/ director Scharmal Schrock was honored as a special guest at the event, where there were over 200 in attendance.

Alumni Ring Ceremony

The Alumni Association hosted the Senior Ring Ceremony in December.

At the ceremony students received their new Southeastern rings, learned the significance of the symbols on the rings, and enjoyed a dessert reception.

Tangi Chapter hosts event

Alumni and Friends go cruisin' in Bahamas Over 40 alumni and friends joined the Alumni Association for a weeklong cruise to beautiful Key West and the Bahamas in January. The group traveled aboard the Carnival Cruise ship Triumph. Above are, top row, from left, Sam Houston, Sonny Chandler, and Louis Wiginton. Second row, from left, June Barrett, Clara Houston, and Marion Ruth Chandler.

Third row, from left, Gloria Durbin, Shirley Wiginton, and Gloria Parent. Fourth row, from left, Dolores Wiginton, Glen Bowman, JoAnn Bowman, Leila Walker and Betty Holden.

Fifth row, from left, Margaret Harmon, Betty Meador and Donnie Booth. Sixth row, from left, Vergie Sanders, Louis Booth, and Ed Nettles. Seventh row, from left, Mary Herrin, Bill Herrin, and Darnell Nettles. Eighth row, from left, Pat Forbes, H.P. Forbes, Jim Kinnison, Jeremy Sadden and Jerry Sadden. Ninth row, from left, Norma Bryan, Buck Bryan, Ruth Kinnison, and Leah Sadden. Tenth row, from left, Mike Lee, Kathy Kinnison, Kathy Meyers and Donald Meyers. Eleventh row, from left, Barbara Lee, Viola Swift, Pat Williams, and Alumni Association Director, Kathy Pittman.

The Tangi Chapter hosted a dinner theater in October at the Columbia Theatre for the performance of Capitol Steps.

This was a sold out event, and everyone enjoyed the hysterical political satire.

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Association News

Golden Grads celebrate 50 years Southeastern alumni who graduated 50 years ago or more and their guests attended the Golden Grads luncheon in December. The Golden Grads from the honored class of 1959 received honorary diplomas and gold robes and all had a chance to renew old friendships and remember their days at “SLC.” A group of 20 Golden Grads returned the next day to the University Center to lead the processional at the commencement ceremony.

Lady Lions Basketball reunion

Alumni hosts Senior Salute

The Alumni Association teamed up with the PRIDE organization to host former Lady Lions basketball team members in January at the University Center. Attendees enjoyed watching the current team as they played conference foe Nicholls State. They also attended a special dinner provided by PRIDE after the game.

Some of Southeastern’s newest alumni were recognized in December at the Alumni Center. They celebrated graduation with a gumbo dinner, cake, and a mini-diploma compliments of the Alumni Association. President John L. Crain congratulated them on their accomplishments.

Alumni hosts tailgate at McNesse State

Champagne Bingo a success Nearly 500 FE-Lions and their friends experienced Champagne Bingo on Jan. 23. The ladies had a wonderful time as they sipped champagne served by Southeastern football players and played bingo. All proceeds from Champagne Bingo benefit Lion Athletics.

Special guests included Football Coach Mike Lucas, Wendy Lucas, and new Athletic Director Bart Bellairs and his wife Jacki.

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Alumnus of the year

The Alumni Association hosted a tailgate in Lake Charles in October when the Lions took on the McNeese Cowboys. Many Lion fans came out to tailgate and enjoy good food and good friends before the game.

Nominations now being accepted.

Please submit a resume to kpittman@selu.edu.

Keeping in Touch what are you doing? ’57 Dr. John Kenelly Jr., Seneca, SC, was the winner of the Clemson University Emeritus of the Year Award for Community, University, and Professional Services. ’70 Pat Macaluso, Hammond, LA, recently had her art featured on the cover of Inside Northside magazine. ’70 Dan Watsky, Metairie, LA, recently joined Fidelity Homestead as manager of SBA lending. ’74 David Hal Perry, Abbeville, LA, is currently serving as a seaman on board a U.N. grain ship. ’76 Reggie Harper, Hammond, LA, received the Community Service Award at the recent Hammond Chamber Installation and Awards Luncheon. ’77 Samuel Alsgood Jr., Ocean Springs, MS, was recently promoted to Vice President of Finance and Controller at Northrop Grumman Corp. ’77, ’82 Ella Bickham, Franklinton, LA, is currently serving as Literacy Coach at Franklinton Elementary School. ’77 Matthew T. Faust, Covington, LA, has recently joined First Community Bank in Hammond. ’83 Robin Roberts, Farmington, CT, is the 2009 recipient of the Walter Camp Football Foundation Distinguished American Award. She is only the second female to be honored with this prestigious honor. ’85 Huey Kinchen, Tomball, TX, has been named deputy superintendent for Tomball ISD. ’86 Danny Heitman, Baton Rouge, LA, recently published an opinion column in the Wall Street Journal entitled “Audubon, Haiti and Cruel Fate.”

The author of the book A Summer of Birds: John James Audubon at Oakley House, he is an editorial writer for the Baton Rouge Advocate. ’87 Rachel Jenkins, Albany, LA, was honored as 2009-2010 Middle School Principal of the Year for Livingston Parish. ’88 Tina Fandal Neal, Covington, LA, was named 2008-2009 Elementary Teacher of the Year for St. Tammany Parish. ’90 Michelle Oubre, Luling, LA, is manager, instructor, club coach and senior fitness director at Anytime Fitness in Luling. ’91 Amy Bumgarner, Burleson, TX, recently graduated with a masters degree in stabilization and reconstruction from the Naval Postgraduate School. ’92 Daryl Ferrara, Hammond, LA, received the Chairman of the Board Award from the Hammond Chamber of Commerce for his outstanding leadership as 2009 Chairman. ’92 Resa Fry, Biloxi, MS, has been promoted to senior vice president at Hancock Bank. ’92 Liz Sawyer, M.Ed., LPC, Covington, LA, has been named executive director of the New Horizons Youth Service Bureau, a local nonprofit United Way agency that provides counseling and therapy to troubled children and their families. ’95 Dr. Troy Hoover, Baton Rouge, LA, recently opened a new dentistry office in Walker, LA. ’01 Cristina Abreu, Tampa, FL, was a recipient of the Tampa Bay Business Journal 2009 Up & Comers under 30 Award. ’04 Jason Ourso, Walker, LA, is currently a label executive at Phantom Party Records, an independent record label. ’07 Jennifer O’Neil, Hammond, LA, has joined Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center as its new development officer serving the greater north shore and Tangipahoa areas. ’08 Sandy Chester, Loranger, LA, was recently named advocate supervisor in the Amite office of Child Advocacy Services.

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deceased ’33 Alfred W. Dubuisson, November 14, 2009 ’36 Rebecca Pemble Israel Baxter, November 1, 2009 ’44 Nellie Louise Woodward Traylor, December 20, 2009 ’46 Bobbye McMichael Hall, January 17, 2010 ’48 James G. “Jug” Odom, January 3, 2010 ’50 Curtis Eugene “Jack” Blalock, October 5, 2009 ’51 Felix Francis Laiche, December 9, 2009 ’58 Roland McNeil Kemp, November 9, 2009 ’63 Robert Booda Hoyt Schexnailder, Ph.D., December 27, 2009 ’66 Kenneth Wayne Morris, Sr., December 4, 2009 ’67 Mary Ann Kasischke Koon, January 3, 2010 ’70 Roseanna “Rosie” Ragas-Triche, October 15, 2009 ’71 Reggie Dewitt Pete Jenkins, October 17, 2009 ’74 Loree’ LeBlanc, December 26, 2009 ’75 Olivia Porche’ French, December 30, 2009 ’77 Lewis L. “Jake” Olmsted, December 4, 2009 ’81 Lisa Easley Houston, November 10, 2009

weddings ’99 Tuesdai Belle and Jeff Miller, November 14, 2009 ’03 Henry Noto and Jen LeBlanc, November 6, 2009 ’05 Kristina Hender and Marco Rodriguez, January 29, 2010 ’05 Wesley Porta and Leigh Hargroder, February 19, 2010 ’06 Laura Gueringer and Brett Haase, January 2, 2010 ’06 Matthew Magnuson and Susannah Lazar, December 19, 2009 ’06 Hunter Perrin and Whitney Boudreaux, October 17, 2009 ’06 Laura Sisco and Joseph Biddle, November 21, 2009 ’06 David Young and Alice Godown, December 22, 2009 ’07 Jaime Quave and James Lewis, November 14, 2009 ’07 Victor Mathew Bernier, IV and Kathryn Dowd, March 13, 2010 ’08 Brandt Moran and Kelli Davidson, January 15, 2010 ’08 Stephanie Myers and Jami Harpole, November 20, 2009 ’09 Jeanie Pourciau and Dustin Tucker, February 5, 2010 ’09 Stephanie Powell and Matthew Smith, November 21, 2009

It's never too late Order your official Southeastern ring today.

1-866-Balfour or balfourcollege.com

11

Development Lillie Abels Maurin Professorship in Secondary Education is announced

The Southeastern Development Foundation is pleased to announce the establishment of the Lillie Abels Maurin Professorship in Secondary Education.

The recognition has been generously given by her sons, Jimmy and Robert Maurin III and her daughter-in-law, Lillian Maurin.

Born and raised in Springfield, La, Maurin attended Springfield High School and Southeastern Louisiana College, graduating in 1942 with a degree in education. She spent 33 years teaching high school in Livingston Parish, mostly at Holden High School, where she taught a variety of subjects, including English and bookkeeping.

The Maurins’ gift of $60,000 will be matched by $40,000 from the State of Louisiana’s Education Quality Support Fund to establish the professorship.

Alumni, Parents, Faculty and Staff: Take the AT&T-Southeastern Golden Silence Matching Challenge Donate today and double the impact of your gift to the Southeastern Annual Fund!

Recently AT&T made a generous commitment of $20,000 to the Southeastern Annual Fund. But, with this gift comes a challenge – the AT&T-Southeastern Matching Challenge.

AT&T made this contribution with a very strategic intent. First and foremost, they wished to make an impact on the university by supporting the Southeastern Annual Fund. Second, they wanted to inspire alumni, parents, faculty and staff who have not given to Southeastern in the past three years to donate now. The gifts will be matched 1:1; therefore, gifts of $25, $250, or $500 will provide $50, $500, or $1,000 in vital support for the Southeastern Annual Fund, which affects every aspect of the university and our students.

Any new gifts to the Southeastern Annual Fund made on or before June 30, 2010 will qualify for a match via the AT&T Challenge up to $20,000! At a time when these funds are most crucial, think of the good that can be accomplished with your support!

So why not take the AT&T Challenge? Make your gift online now at www.selu.edu/givenow or call 866.474.4438.

14 12

Myra LaRue committed to giving to alma mater Some call Myra LaRue feisty, but we call the former Southeastern cheerleader, spirited for her love of children, education, and especially her alma mater.

An alumnus and great friend of the university, she has expanded her philanthropy by establishing an estate gift that provides future resources for academic excellence at Southeastern.

LaRue, who graduated in 1942, has also endowed two scholarships for majors in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. The endowed scholarships were established in memory of her beloved husband, Robert E. LaRue and her brother, Fritz “Tootsie” Darouse. She is a dear friend and valued member of the Southeastern family.

Fred Trapp Family establishes scholarship

Southeastern graduate and former Alumni Association President Fred Trapp established a second scholarship at the university. He took advantage of the IRA Rollover provision, which exempts from taxable income any funds transferred from an IRA directly to a charitable organization. The Fred Trapp Family Scholarship in Athletics will benefit a deserving Southeastern athlete. Trapp attended Southeastern on the G.I Bill and knows the difference financial assistance makes toward turning a college education into reality. Fred’s legacy will help other students realize their dream of a college education from Southeastern.

Development

The Power of "we"

Manzellas recognized for academic support

The Dorothy Blossman Charitable Foundation

Boards from several divisions of Southeastern presented a united front by participating in a recent workshop on the topic of resource development, fundraising and memberships. The multiboard workshop, held in Southeastern President John L. Crain addresses participants January, was underwritat the university's first multi-board workshop. ten by a capacity-building grant from the Dorothy L. Blossman Charitable Foundation.

“The Blossman Foundation is committed to supporting program initiatives such as Southeastern’s board building workshop, where they can demonstrate that volunteer engagement and training will advance the organization’s mission and thereby benefit our community,” said Chuck Reese, a trustee of the foundation.

Dorothy Blossman was a true philanthropist, spending her life addressing the needs of others, including Southeastern. Through the establishment of the Dorothy L. Blossman Charitable Foundation, a lasting legacy exists that will continue to sustain her efforts for many years to come.

As a result of this grant, 50 key volunteers representing alumni, friends and community leaders, from the local region and as far away as Houston, attended the interactive workshop held in the Alumni Center, facilitated by the Great Lakes Entrepreneurship Center, in Tiffin, Ohio. Volunteers learned about evolving plans at the university, the changing role of volunteers, Louisiana philanthropy markets and the structure of cross-functional teams in identifying and securing resources for Southeastern.

“To the best of my knowledge, this is the first time we have brought together volunteers serving on four distinct boards at Southeastern (Columbia Theatre, Athletics, Alumni, and the Development Foundation) to forge a united front in securing resources for Southeastern. Informing and engaging our volunteers remains a high priority in addressing the university’s educational, cultural, economic and athletic importance to our region and various constituents,” said Wendy Johns-Lauderdale, vice president for university advancement.

Workshop participants also had the opportunity to interact with President John L. Crain as he spoke on recent budget restructuring and the potential impact to Southeastern’s programs.

The call to action seemed evident as the audience broke into several rallying calls – “I believe in Southeastern!”

John Manzella (’77) and his wife Beverly recently endowed a scholarship to provide financial assistance to deserving Southeastern students. The John and Beverly Manzella Endowed Scholarship in Business becomes their fourth endowment, following the establishment of the Gregory Caballero Endowed Scholarship in History in memory of their son; the Lura Hornosky Endowed Scholarship in Baseball in memory of John’s mother, and the Beverly L. Manzella Endowed Scholarship in Nursing in honor of Beverly. The Manzellas’ generosity in spirit and devotion to Southeastern has provided perpetual support to address the needs of Southeastern students.

Hammond Police Union establishes scholarship

The Hammond Police Officers Union Local 345 presented a donation to fund scholarships annually to criminal justice students from Tangipahoa Parish.

Participating in the presentation are, from left, Myles Miller, union sergeant at arms; Officer Kelvin L. James, secretary; Union President Charles Deliberto; scholarship recipients Whitney Mayers and Brandon Manton; and President John L. Crain. Funds for the scholarship are raised primarily through the union’s annual ball.

15 13

Student Focus Nursing students look to curb texting and driving among teens

Senior nursing student Christina Donze is interviewed by reporter Doug Mouton of WWL-TV, New Orleans, on the project she and other Southeastern nursing students adopted to help limit texting and driving among teenagers. Looking on is Southeastern nursing instructor Terry Compton.

Texting while driving: it’s illegal in many states, Louisiana included, but many drivers continue to use cell phones to text messages. And the habit is especially prevalent among teenage drivers.

A group of Southeastern nursing students scrutinized the problem recognizing that texting while driving is equivalent to driving with a .08 blood alcohol level. Some were also motivated by personal knowledge of a 19-year-old who lost control of her vehicle and was killed while texting.

Christina Donze and seven other nursing students chose the practice for their Capstone project, a community outreach research course required of all senior Southeastern nursing students.

“Teenagers believe ‘it can’t happen to them;’ they think they are impervious to injury.” Donze said. “We want them to know it can happen to them.”

The team researched the topic and found many interesting points: 80 percent of crashes and 65 percent of near crashes are caused by driver inattention within three seconds of the event; drivers who use cell phones are four times as likely to get into serious crashes compared to those who don’t; 62 percent of high school drivers say they can talk on a cell phone while driving, and 24 percent believe it is safe.

Field research included “windshield surveys,” where student nurses stationed themselves by high schools to see how 14

many students were texting while driving as they entered and left school grounds.

Based on that initial study, they decided to focus on students at Fontainebleau High School in Mandeville.

Donze said the windshield survey showed about 40 percent of Fontainebleau students were texting or talking on a cell phone while driving in the morning. A student pre-survey indicated 80 percent admitted to texting while driving; 80 percent also admitted they knew the practice was dangerous.

The educational program, called “Drive Safer-Text Later,” targeted junior and senior high students at Fontainebleau and included a state trooper presentation, a presentation by the nursing students, a short video, and a testimonial by the aunt of a young person killed while driving and texting.

ted while driving one week later, and another 37 percent greatly decreased the amount of texting while driving.

“We know some students will still text while driving,” said nursing student Amanda Lusk. “We just wanted to make an impact on them; I believe we did.

“We’re all guilty of using the cell phone while driving,” she added.

“Everyone is texting too much, even though most Americans see the danger.”

“Once the students saw how prevalent the problem was, they took ownership of it, set goals and overcame obstacles,” said Southeastern instructor Terry Compton. “I’m proud of the effort they put into the project.

“Part of the criteria for a Capstone project is it has to focus on effecting a change,” she added. “The emphasis is for students to look at the nursing role in a community health setting, not just taking care of individuals, but looking at a target population and how you can make behavioral changes. This group had a definite impact with their project.”

Project promoted in media

The students also worked with a local billboard company to post a free advertisement with the theme “Is any text worth dying over … don’t text and drive” and appeared on several radio and TV programs. Their project was featured in the Hammond Daily Star and the New Orleans Times Picayune, including a followup editorial that cited the students’ work at Fontainebleau.

The presentation had an immediate impact. A follow-up student survey revealed that 45 percent had not tex-

Nursing students trying to decrease teen texting while driving included, from left, front row, Elizabeth Jenkins, Kayla Rebaldo and Kristine Bourlet; second row, Brittany Sessions and Amanda Lusk; third row, Christina Donze and Keremeche Brown; fourth row, nursing instructor Terry Compton and student Chad Wilson.

Student News Fall President's medal winners

Le Souvenir honored with top award

The university awarded its highest academic honor, the President’s Medal for Academic Excellence, to seven students with the highest cumulative grade point averages in the university’s five colleges and Division of General Studies at December’s commencement ceremony. Seated from left are Gail E. McWilliams of Covington, Jamie Renee Koester of Richmond, Ind., Katherine Ann Boudreaux of Mandeville, Aimee E. Chavers of Denham Springs, and Caitlin V. Craddock of Hammond. Back row, left, are President John L. Crain, Elise Burkhalter, member of the board of the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors, Terrence Stehlik of Baton Rouge, Milton Thomas III of Walker, and Andre Coudrain, a member of the UL System Board of Supervisors.

The latest edition of Le Souvenir, Southeastern’s student yearbook, earned a first place award from the American Scholastic Press Association for its ninth consecutive year.

The association presents the first place award for publications which are “outstanding overall examples of a scholastic publication in format, content and presentation.”

Over 2,000 entries nationwide were reviewed by the judges.

“It’s nice to be recognized again for our work,” said Allyson O’Keefe of Metairie, a Southeastern graduate student in psychology who served as editor. “A great deal of work went into making the 2009 edition, and I think it came together nicely.”

O’Keefe was assisted by Patrick Costilow of Slidell, a senior in visual arts, who served as layout editor and who is serving as editor of the 2010 edition of Le Souvenir.

Scholar Showcase 2010

Piano student wins state competition

Daniel McCarthy, dean of the College of Science and Technology, discusses some of the offerings through the college to Brittany Alker of North Lake Christian School in Covington and her mother Sherrie Alker.

More than 470 top high school seniors from around the state were offered Southeastern scholarships at Scholars Showcase in February.

A Southeastern student received the grand prize in the 2010 Caudell Cup Piano Competition held at Louisiana College in Pineville in March.

Benjamin Rhinehart, a junior piano performance major from Lafayette, won the competition in a field of 12 undergraduate piano students. He received a $400 award and will perform a solo recital engagement in Alexandria later this year.

The Caudell Cup competition was first held in 1922. This year’s competition was judged by Pamela Mia Paul, recognized internationally as a performer and teacher from the University of North Texas.

Rhinehart is a student of Kenneth Boulton, Southeastern associate professor of piano.

15

Athletics Bellairs named director of athletics W. Bart Bellairs, former director of intercollegiate athletics at Savannah State University in Savannah, Ga., and former senior athletics administrator at Virginia Military Institute, has been selected to serve as director of athletics.

Bellairs succeeds Joel Erdmann, who accepted a similar position at the University of South Alabama.

Southeastern golf coach Tim Balwin has served as interim director since Erdmann’s departure.

“We are excited to welcome Bart Bellairs to our staff,” said President John L. Crain.

“He has a broad range of accomplishments in athletic administration and shares Southeastern’s focus on the ‘student’ part of the student-athlete equation. He has a proven track record

in inspiring his athletes and staff to achieve their full potential, whether in the classroom or in athletic competition. And he has experience in handling marketing, promotion, fundraising and budgetary issues.”

“I liked what I saw at Southeastern from the start, but when my wife Jacki and I met the people, we knew we had found a home,” Bellairs said. “When I started preparing for the interview I was very impressed with the campus and the attention Southeastern paid to supporting the students; when I met the people here, I wanted to be a part of it.”

At Southeastern, Bellairs will oversee 15 NCAA Division I programs that compete in the Southland Conference.

Bellairs had been at Savannah State, an NCAA Division I program with 15 teams, since July 2008. There he implemented an academics success plan that included an academic “road map” for each student-athlete from registration to graduation. During his tenure there, football, men’s basketball, softball and women’s volleyball teams all saw significant improvement in seasonal wins.

Shallow shatters conference record Southeastern junior Adonson Shallow destroyed his own school and conference record to win the weight throw competition at the Southland Conference Indoor Track and Field Championships. His effort helped the Lions end opening day in third place.

Shallow put up a mark of 68 feet 11.75 inches (21.02 meters) on his second throw of the day, beating his previous best of 65 feet 10.25 inches (20.07 meters), set at the LSU Purple Tiger Invitational on Jan. 22, 2010. Shallow also won last year’s conference weight throw event, which helped him capture the SLC Newcomer of the Year award.

ReC Sports Join now!

Now is the best time to sign up at Southeastern's state-ofthe-art fitness center featuring exciting new renovations and equipment to whip you into shape!

Visit the Pennington Student Activity Center or call the Membership Desk at 985-549-5734.

16

Lucas named top coach by state sports writers Southeastern head football coach Mike Lucas was named Coach of the Year by the Louisiana Sports Writers Association.

The state team was announced after a series of nominations from the football-playing sports information directors and subsequent voting from a panel of LSWA members. The result was one of the most diverse teams in recent history, as nine schools had at least one first team member.

Lucas joins former Southeastern legend and 1981 recipient Oscar Lofton in claiming the state’s top coaching honor. Lucas was joined on the team by first-team selection Mark Newbill at linebacker, second-team selection Re’Keem Wilson at defensive back and honorable mention picks David Ward (offensive line) and Simmie Yarborough (wide receiver).

Sullivan named to NABC first team Senior center Patrick Sullivan was named a first-team member on the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Division I AllDistrict 23 squad.

Sullivan concluded his career after the Lions’ 88-85 loss to eventual Southland Conference champion Sam Houston State.

“This is a well deserved honor for Patrick and a reflection of the hard work that he put in during his time here at Southeastern,” head coach Jim Yarbrough said.

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Southeastern merchandise makes great gifts. Please consider these local merchants that carry Southeastern merchandise when making purchasing decisions. (1) Painting with a Twist in downtown Hammond hosts painting parties for groups, such as the Southeastern FE-Lions. For private parties call (985) 345-3747. (2) Southeastern athletic visor $16.99 and (3) Southeastern baseball cap $16.99, (buy one, get the second half off) available at N’awlins Sports. (4) Southeastern large tumblers, set of two $19.99 and (5) small tumblers, set of four $29.99, available at the Ultimate Party Store.

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Southeastern community contributes to Haitian relief Students, faculty and staff combined forces to send aid to Haiti. The campaign combined a traditional fund raising effort undertaken by students with collection of items to make small health and hygiene supply kits sent directly to the Haitian people. Above: Miss Southeastern 2010 Lacey Sanchez of Baton Rouge, right, collects donations for the “Southeastern Supports Haiti� campaign from students gathered in the Student Union mall. From left are: Sandra Valdes of Hammond and Abby Sease and Alyssa Ranzino of Mandeville.

The funds and kits were turned over to the United Methodist Committee on Relief to aid in relief efforts.

Non-Prof. Org. U.S.Postage Presorted Standard Permit No. 54 Hammond, LA