Tarleton Magazine - Winter 2015

The Tarleton State University Magazine

Winter 2015

Repeating history Tarleton revives the Corps of Cadets

Tale of the Ringtail

Launching the state’s newest park

Dark Horse Dunker to Harlem Globetrotter

Davene Carter takes talents on tour

Volume 6 Number 3

Tarleton State University Magazine

Winter 2015 President Dr. F. Dominic Dottavio

Assistant Vice President, Marketing and Communications Harry Battson

Production Director Alyson Chapman

Associate Editor, Photographer Kurt Mogonye

Associate Editor Chandra Andrew

Contributors Cecilia Jacobs, Jessee Horwedel, Mary Saltarelli, Kathryn Jones Malone

Design Molly Murphy Blank Canvas Graphic Design

Division of Advancement and external relations Box T-0415 Stephenville, TX 76402 254-968-9890

Vice President, Advancement and External Relations Dr. Kyle McGregor

Assistant Vice President, Development Janice Horak

Assistant Vice President, Advancement and External Relations Sabra Guerra is published three times a year by the

Department of Marketing and Communications Tarleton State University Box T-0730 Stephenville, TX 76402

On the Cover: Members of the Corps of Cadets present the colors in front of the Agriculture Building. This photo is from the 1962 Grassburr.

Remember the days, recall the traditions!

Tarleton is unique. You’ve been an integral part of it; as alumni it’s been a major part of your life and career. Renew your connection!

Join the Tarleton Alumni Association and link to the friends, the memories, the events that are still Tarleton today.

Membership dues continue the tradition – 100% goes to scholarships for today’s students. Your dues can make a difference in the life of a Tarleton student.

As the new President of the Tarleton Alumni Association, I’m inviting you to reconnect and, in the process, help support current students. Memberships begin with as little as $50.

Contact us today –

www.tarleton.edu/giving.

Luke Lawson Class of ‘90

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Inside Developing Tomorrow’s Leaders

Former Corps of Cadets members recall organization’s past

6 8 14 16

With Stars in their Eyes Students create astronomy simulations

Tale of the Ringtail Launching the state’s newest park

From the ground up Alpha leader climbs company ladder

A bright light burns State representative finds opportunities to help his constituents

TEXANS 2

alumni survey

Complete the online survey

Shorts

Briefs on construction at agricultural center, Memorial Stadium renovation, campus food pantry, student work in the Dominican Republic and military alumni honored by the state.

18 class notes

sports

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20 Dark Horse Dunker to

win Tarleton merchandise!

Steve A. Steed: 40-plus years and staying

www.tarleton.edu/ alumnisurvey

Dr. Steve Steed takes a new role as dean of the College of Business Administration.

Davene Carter takes talents on tour

for a chance to

Harlem Globetrotter

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Construction begins on Agricultural Laboratory

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onstruction of the new $3.8-million Agricultural Field Machinery and Fabrication Laboratory is underway at the Tarleton Agricultural Center, with completion slated for January 2017.

The 24,000-square-foot facility will rise near the front entrance to the Agricultural Center at the intersection of FM 8 and College Farm Road (County Road 518).

The facility will include three 6,000-square-foot laboratories— one each for studies in metal fabrication, agricultural power applications and agricultural structures. Also included will be space for four classrooms, a computer laboratory, faculty offices and meeting spaces.

Funding for the project comes from Permanent University Funds granted by The Texas A&M University System and $277,863 in donations, predominantly from the Pevehouse Family Foundation, a supporter of Tarleton and its agricultural mechanics program.

The new facility will enable the college to unite activities occurring in three separate buildings. The programs currently are housed in two structures off Washington Street adjacent to the Tarleton Horticulture Center and a third location west of the Equine Center.

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Regents approve $24 million for Memorial Stadium renovation

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arleton will begin renovation and expansion of Memorial Stadium, President F. Dominic Dottavio announced in a September news conference on the Stephenville campus.

The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents has authorized $24 million to begin planning, designing and financing the project.

Initial plans include expansion of seating from 7,400 to about 10,000 and conversion of the west side stands to seating for home fans.

Additional plans will be finalized during the design phase of the project and donations will be sought to fully fund the project.

Renovations will include an expanded press box and suites, additional premium seating with chair backs, expanded entrances and ticket booths, and improved concession and other facilities. The football field and track-and-field surfaces will be replaced as part of the project.

Planning and design are expected to begin immediately and stretch through next fall. If all goes well, construction will begin after the 2016 football season.

Developed in the 1940s as a tribute to the 179 Tarleton faculty and students who died in World War II, the original Memorial Stadium opened in 1951. A major reconstruction was completed in 1977, when today’s features were created. In 1988-89, seating was expanded, the concession stand was remodeled, the current field house was built and track-and-field facilities were renovated.

Student elected president of National Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow

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aylor Kennedy, a senior agricultural communication student, was named president of the National Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow. The Paradise, Texas, native was elected in July during the 2015 Agricultural Media Summit in Scottsdale, Ariz.

Kennedy’s selection marks the fourth straight year a Tarleton student has been elected to serve on the national officer team. Last year, Kennedy served as the organization’s secretary/treasurer.

The National Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow’s officer team is elected by delegates representing collegiate chapters across the nation. Selections are based on service, leadership, involvement and passion for agriculture.

Throughout the next year, the officer team will oversee various organizational activities, concluding with the 2016 national convention in New Orleans.

Students work 375 hours in Dominican Republic

Go online!

ifteen Tarleton students traveled to the Dominican Republic for a week during which they provided 375 hours of environmental sustainability-focused service with peers from Escuela Ambiental, a national environmental resources and sustainability school.

Sponsored by Tarleton’s Student Success and Multicultural Initiatives (SSMI), the trip provided service-learning opportunities. The student volunteers planted a campus garden, painted trash barrels, created a water garden and assisted with removal of invasive plant species.

The service-learning trip, led by associate professor of communication Dr. Lora Helvie-Mason, director of Tarleton’s Office of Diversity & Inclusion, and Dr. Brenda Faulkner, director of Student Success programs, was designed as a hands-on academic experience and ecotourism initiative through EF Tours.

This marks the third year of service-learning efforts in the Dominican Republic.

“This year is the first time the Intercultural Communication course was partnered with the Social Psychology course, which led to a rich cultural dialogue while the students were in the Dominican Republic and after they arrived back in the U.S.,” said Helvie-Mason.

For information about enrolling at Tarleton, go to

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tarleton.edu/ becomeatexan

Food pantry aids students

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he Tarleton Food Pantry—a collaboration of the university’s Student Success & Multicultural Initiatives, the Division of Student Life and other campus groups, including H.O.P.E. Inc.—opened on Aug. 7.

The goal is to make healthy, nourishing food available to students who might otherwise not have enough to eat, helping them stay enrolled and enjoy academic success.

The Tarleton Food Pantry will rely on donations of food and money.

Alumni Kyle, Dyess receive state’s highest military honor

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hief Petty Officer Christopher Scott Kyle and Col. William Edwin Dyess, Tarleton alumni, posthumously received the state’s highest military honor—the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor.

The Texas House of Representatives and Senate each adopted resolutions to honor the two Tarleton alumni and directed Gov. Greg Abbott to award the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor.

Kyle, nominated for his exceptional dedication over the course of his service, was specifically cited for conspicuous gallantry and self-sacrifice during the battles of Fallujah in 2004 and Ramadi in 2006.

Kyle, author of the top-selling book, American Sniper, attended Tarleton from 1992-1994 before joining the U.S. Navy and being assigned to SEAL Team 3. He served four tours of duty in Iraq, and was awarded two Silver Stars and five Bronze Stars. He’s credited with being the deadliest sniper in U.S. military history.

In 2013, Tarleton honored Kyle as its Outstanding Young Alumnus.

Dyess, was a native of Albany, Texas, and studied pre-law at John Tarleton Agricultural College from 1934-36. He joined the U.S. Army Air Corps upon graduation. During World War II, Dyess became a certified combat pilot, commanding the 21st Pursuit Squadron in the Philippines.

Nearby Dyess Air Force Base in Abilene bears the Tarleton alumnus’ name, honoring his memory and World War II heroics for which he received the Distinguished Flying Cross and Distinguished Service Cross.

Discover ways to give back to your university at

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TarletonState

texan facts

90 Percent of first-year

freshmen live on campus

1,722 Number of students

enrolled at the Fort Worth center

12,326

Number of students enrolled in Tarleton for fall 2015

23,682

Number of service hours volunteered in 2015

by Tarleton Transition Mentors to help the Class of 2019 transition to university life

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Retired USAF Col. Weldon to lead renewed Corps of Cadets

Faculty Focus

Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Kenny Weldon was tapped to lead Tarleton’s Corps of Cadets, a program being re-established at the Stephenville campus.

A native of Stephenville, Weldon retired in 2011 after serving 26 years in the Air Force. While on active duty, he served as an Air Force civil engineer officer and led organizations at the installation, military department and Secretary of Defense levels.

Weldon’s military decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal and Legion of Merit.

Tarleton’s historic Corps of Cadets, which dates back to 1917, will open to students this fall.

Members will enroll in military science classes, but not be required to join the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC). The lower floor of a new residence hall, Traditions, will house the corps office, and cadets will live together there. Through structure, discipline and a code of ethics, Tarleton’s Corps of Cadets will enhance student leadership skills.

The colonel is a 1985 graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, with a bachelor’s in civil engineering. He also holds a master’s in engineering and environmental management as well as a master’s in national security strategy from the National Defense University, Washington, D.C.

Tarleton names new director of Student Financial Aid Sean View was selected as the new director of Student Financial Aid. Most recently, View served as a higher education consultant for Financial Aid Services Inc. and deputy director of Financial Aid for the University of Rochester (NY). His prior experience also includes serving as director of Financial Aid at Westminster College (Salt Lake City) for five years and for two years as associate director of Financial Aid at Hobart and William Smith Colleges (Geneva, NY).

View received a bachelor’s degree in Information Management & Technology from Syracuse University and a MBA with Certificate in Financial Planning from Westminster College.

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Steve A. Steed 40-plus years and staying

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B y C ec i l i a J ac o bs

hen Dr. Steve A. Steed joined Tarleton in the early 1970s, he thought he might stay a couple of years. More than four decades later, he’s taking on a new role as dean of the College of Business Administration.

Decades of “coincidences,” Steed says, have brought him to his new position.

When Steed arrived, the business college was located on the third floor of the agricultural building.

Tarleton’s enrollment hovered around 1,700— compared to a record 12,326 this fall—and many students either were returning from Vietnam or headed that way.

“I was getting married and finishing my master’s when Tarleton contacted my graduate advisor and my undergraduate advisor looking for someone to teach summer accounting,” Steed recalls. “Both advisors recommended me.

“That was definitely a twist of fate. I never expected to teach, especially accounting. My eyes were on Dallas and putting my degrees in general business and marketing to use in the private sector.”

Steed promised Tarleton two years, expecting that he and wife, Mary—from Chicago—would move north.

That didn’t happen. Mary, a Tarleton volleyball player and later coach, fell in love with Stephenville and the university.

Fact is, Steed met Mary (coincidentally, he says) while coaching volleyball. He likes to tell people he picked her up at the airport because that’s exactly what happened.

She flew in from Chicago to play in NORCEA International Volleyball Tournament in Mexico City. Part of Steed’s job was to meet arriving athletes.

With computers new on the scene, Steed became one of the first at Tarleton to own one. That “accident”—as he calls it—led to a 30-year stint heading the university’s Computer Services Committee. When Tarleton opened its first microcomputer labs in the ’80s, Steed convinced participating departments to order the same unassembled units and put them together on arrival, stretching university dollars. Faculty members unloaded the truck, received training on assembly, and three computer labs emerged.

“I’m sure I hold the record for the number of interim administrative positions held at Tarleton,” Steed says.

“Five in all, four times as a department head and once as dean.” His six-month interim as a director of Tarleton’s Center for Agribusiness Excellence in 2002 turned into a two-year stay.

One of his first jobs as business dean is to file Tarleton’s eligibility for accreditation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. AACSB endorsement represents the highest standard of achievement for business schools worldwide, with less than 5 percent of the world’s 13,000 business programs earning approval.

“While Tarleton is sanctioned by the ACBSP (Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs), certification by the AACSB will make Tarleton graduates more desirable to employers,” Steed explains.

“The university will enjoy greater access to the business community and increased potential for national, even international, research collaboration.”

This fall the number of business majors reached an all-time high, nearly 3,000 at Tarleton’s Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Midlothian and Global campuses. The college offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in all things business, from accounting to economics to human resource management to computer information systems.

Along the way, Steed has served the Stephenville community as a board member of Texas Health Resources, the Optimist Club and as a university volleyball coach. His 15-year stint with Texas Health Resources (board chairman from 2011-2014) inspired his current research on the availability of health care providers in rural Texas.

“My heart is here—in Stephenville, in Texas,” he explains. “If I can make the world a better place for Tarleton students or the folks who call this area home, then I can say my efforts have been worthwhile. I’m here to stay.”

Laura Boren named Vice President for Student Life Dr. Laura Boren became Vice President for Student Life in July.

Boren leads the Division of Student Life, which includes Student Engagement, Residential Living and Learning, Transition and Family Relations, The Thompson Student Center, Student Leadership Programs, Health Services, Student Counseling Center, Student Publications, Recreational Sports, Rodeo, University Police and Parking, and Judicial Affairs, among other student service areas. She sits on the President’s Executive Cabinet.

In addition to her executive leadership role, Boren’s experiences include compliance administration and accreditation, membership on state boards and task forces, strategic planning and budgeting, student recruitment and persistence, emergency and crisis response, and health and wellness. She leads institution priorities focused on recruiting students, student persistence toward graduate, health and wellness and civic engagement.

Boren earned her Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from Texas A&M. She obtained her master’s degree in College Student Personal Services and her bachelor’s degree in Meetings and Destination Management from Northeastern State University in Oklahoma.

Professor elected associate fellow of Center for Great Plains Studies Dr. T. Lindsay Baker, history professor, recently was elected to membership as an Associate Fellow of the Center for Great Plains Studies at the University of Nebraska—Lincoln.

Established in 1976, the Center exists to foster the study of the people and the environment of the Great Plains. Serving as an Associate Fellow is the highest rank the Center offers to scholars from outside the University of Nebraska.

Baker holds the W.K. Gordon Endowed Chair in History at Tarleton. He has written over 20 books on the history of Texas and the American West. He lived on the Great Plains for 20 years while associated with Texas Tech University in Lubbock and West Texas A&M University in Canyon. An authority on American windmills, he delivered a lecture on this topic at the University of Nebraska in September 2014, his second time to speak there.

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Students create astronomy simulations

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B y K at h ry n J o n es - M a l o n e

nside the darkened room of the Particle Modeling laboratory in the Tarleton Mathematics Building, computer monitors glow as students unravel mysteries of the universe. On the projection screen, two balls of light—representing a large star

and a smaller one—appear to chase each other as they orbit a common center.

Undergraduate students majoring in computer science, math and physics spent the summer building this electronic model to better understand the evolution of paired stars known as “binary star” systems. This fall, they ran simulations.

At Tarleton’s Hunewell Observatory, researchers look at such stars and “see the light get brighter or dimmer,” says Department of Mathematics Chair Dr. Bryant J. Wyatt, who oversees the lab. Since that’s all researchers can see, “they really don’t know what’s going on, or what’s the mechanism that makes binary stars do what they do.” The models simulate “what we think happens, to get a little better understanding.”

The student researchers hope to plug real data into the simulations. “The final goal is to see if we can create models that will take real data and allow us to predict what’s going to happen to those systems in 200 million years,” explains Dr. Shaukat N. Goderya, director of Astronomy Education and Research and associate professor of physics. He collaborates with the Particle Modeling Group on the binary star project.

“They want to solve the big problems in understanding binary stars,” Goderya said. “Some questions that are unsolved need more information and data.” More than 70 percent of

With 6

Undergraduate students (l-r) Taylor Hutyra, Edward Smith and Baylor Fain are part of Tarleton’s Particle Modeling Group, which created a computer simulation to better help understand the evolution of binary star systems.

the stars in the galaxy are binary, he notes. “We want to understand why they are born either as Siamese twins or born together” as one body and then separate.

Students in the group also have worked for several years on another project, the “giant impact hypothesis” of the moon’s creation. The hypothesis proposes that the Earth and moon were formed when Earth collided with a Mars-sized planet called Theia.

Typically, exploring such questions would require a supercomputer. But under Wyatt’s supervision, the students built a powerful, much cheaper system using hardware designed for the computer gaming industry. They wanted to explore not only how the moon was formed, but why it was so large yet had a small inner core, why soil samples taken from the moon were so similar to Earth’s, and how the Earth’s equatorial plane became tilted.

By smashing planets together in the simulation, students demonstrated how a stable Earth-moon system was formed from a giant impact, something never before achieved in a simulation, and how an off-center collision would be the likely scenario to explain Earth’s equatorial tilt.

The group shared its findings in scientific papers and informational posters and won several awards, including best master’s poster among 176 presented at The Texas A&M University System annual student research symposium.

It’s unusual for undergraduates to have the opportunity to work on such “big questions,” Goderya says. “This is something unique at Tarleton.” And while students explore even a small portion of the big picture, they contribute to a greater understanding of how the universe works.

Stars in their Eyes

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Tale of the 8

Launching the state’s newest park

by K u r t M o g o n ye

This is the tale of the Ringtail and the girl who left a big piece of her heart and a few thousand footprints in what’s destined to become one of Texas’ favorite state parks.

Actually, it’s not a tale at all, but a story of great truths―like, we all can do something to make our small part of the world a better place; we should leave things better than we find them; and, sometimes, nature can use a helping hand. 

Ringtail 9

The story begins with Caitlin Pyle, a biology graduate student, the not-yet-opened Palo Pinto Mountains State Park, and the unique partnership between Tarleton and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD).

Caitlin grew up on Mustang Island, in the front yard of Port Aransas, Texas, digging her toes in the sand, mining her share of seashells and crabs, and falling in love with all things living.

She learned that little things, like collecting a bag’s worth of trash before darting into the surf — her parents’ mantra to always leave a place better than they found it — can make a big impact in protecting flora and fauna.

Fast-forward 15 years and, Pyle, who receives her master’s degree this December, brings her passion for conservation to the Palo Pinto Mountains.

Her year-long graduate research survey is providing TPWD with an understanding of the mammals, habitats and vegetation that live in the 4,400 acres destined to become the state’s newest park.

Pyle, guided by Dr. Christopher Higgins, assistant professor of biological sciences, and Park Superintendent John Ferguson, documents the mammals living within the park to guide planners and plans monitoring stations for future comparative studies.

Funded by a TPWD grant, Pyle and three undergraduate assistants spent weekends at the park identifying suitable areas for surveys, setting traps and capturing new species, or documenting and photographing previously caught species.

The Tarleton students recorded mammals in a variety of habitats by deploying traps and game cameras, and geotagging the location of each specimen.

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Pyle’s work lays the foundation for a long-term survey that will aid the state park in developing recreational areas, trails and facilities, and provide data for TPWD conservation efforts.

The study’s efforts are focused on small- and medium-sized mammals, Higgins says. “We did capture evidence of larger mammals with the use of game cameras. We chose these plots to capture as much vegetative and topographic variability within the park as possible.”

Pyle documented 19 species of mammals, representing six orders and 12 families. Most abundant were rodents, although Pyle was elated to capture the elusive nocturnal Ringtail (Bassariscus astutus)—the first official sighting within Palo Pinto County.

“The Ringtail was the biggest surprise,” she says. “Their range is here, but they’re so elusive that I didn’t expect to find one at all.”

“Our goal is to create a long-term grid, so that we can come back in the same spots and examine the diversity of mammals after the park is fully functional,” says Pyle. “In 10 to 15 years, another grad student can build from my initial study, comparing post-development changes.”

Pyle, as an undergraduate at Tarleton, assisted Higgins with a research project on blacktail shiner, sparking her interest in a graduate degree.

“I wanted a project that made a difference and complemented who I am trying to be as a scientist,” Pyle says. “If we don’t conduct surveys like this, we won’t know what’s here to conserve.”

With so many nocturnal mammals, “if we don’t see them, we believe they’re not there — unlike birds, which are active most of the day,” she adds.

Superintendent Ferguson noted the special challenges a new park provides. “This opportunity of getting a relatively pristine chunk of land, beginning the planning and inventory process, and then moving forward with development is new.

It’s a great learning experience for TPWD and, as we’re finding out, a great learning experience for partners in the area such as Tarleton and students like Caitlin.”

Palo Pinto Mountains State Park is years from a public opening. “Now in the formative stages, it serves as a scientific laboratory,” Ferguson says. “We could easily destroy some of the things here if we don’t conduct these types of surveys and determine sensitive habitat areas during the

planning process.

“Where we find concentrations of mammals through Caitlin’s survey, we might have a hiking path through there, and we might not,” Ferguson says.

Pyle’s information will be considered. “We don’t want to build something where deer bed down or where high concentrations of animals congregate and live. This process is valuable. Caitlin is breaking ground between the park and Tarleton.”

“State parks are important,” Pyle says. ”They help people appreciate nature. They’re important for providing recreation and protecting the land. When people come to parks, they can see the wildlife and plants and leave knowing that it’s worth conserving -- thanks to a better appreciation of what surrounds them.

From left, Palo Pinto Mountains State Park Superintendent John Ferguson, Tarleton graduate student Caitlin Pyle, undergraduates Vanessa Hays and Allen Williams pose near the temporary entrance to Texas’ newest state park just west of Strawn.

Planning a future state park

P Graduate student Caitlin Pyle uses a range finder to assist in setting a series of traps in a uniform grid at Palo Pinto Mountains State Park.

“I want to be a biologist,” she adds. “When people ask me what I want to do, I tell them I want to make the world a better place — not the whole world, but a small part of the world.”

Like the new park. “We’ve fallen in love with Palo Pinto Mountains, the scenery and the lake,” Pyle says. “It has such rugged beauty and is mostly untouched. Because of this study, I definitely have a piece of my heart here in the park.”

alo Pinto Mountains State Park, located just west of the tiny town of Strawn— famous for the chicken fried steaks served at Mary’s Café—consists or more than 4,400 acres acquired by the state in 2011.

Officials believe Palo Pinto Mountains will become one of Texas’ most visited parks because of easy access from Interstate 20 and its location midway between Dallas-Fort Worth and Abilene.

Eight million people live within a 150-mile radius and a daily average of 16,000 vehicles pass on I-20 a few miles from the park entrance.

Dark skies will draw amateur astronomers; Lake Tucker will lure those interested in fishing, kayaking and canoeing.

Park Superintendent John Ferguson expects 75 percent of the park to remain undeveloped.

The Tarleton survey found 19 species of mammal in the park:

 Virginia opossum  nine-banded armadillo  Eastern cottontail  Eastern fox squirrel  American beaver  Southern plains woodrat  Texas mouse  white-footed mouse  deer mouse

Tarleton student researchers prepare traps for deployment within Palo Pinto Mountains State Park in an effort to collect data on the various mammalian species that call the property home. During her study, Caitlin Pyle documented 19 species of mammals.

         

white-ankled mouse hispid cotton rat coyote Ringtail common raccoon striped skunk Eastern spotted skunk bobcat feral pig white-tailed deer

Palo Pinto Mountains may be home to nearly 55 different mammalian species during certain times of year, based on known county records.

The Tarleton study will aid planners in preserving the park’s biodiversity.

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Developing Tomorrow’s Leaders

Former Corps of Cadets members recall organization’s past

B y C h a n d r a A n d r ew

A

n old adage says, “Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.”

Fortunately for Tarleton and its students, one historical group worth duplicating returns to campus this fall in the form of a prestigious leadership organization.

“It is a significant decision to revive a Corps of Cadets program at Tarleton,” says Col. Kenny Weldon, program commandant.

The organization’s history with Tarleton dates to 1917, when joining the Corps of Cadets was a requirement for all male students. During the mid-1950s, the nation experienced a significant change in philosophy and the Corps experience ended on many college campuses.

As part of reestablishing the Corps, Weldon met with members of the 1950 Tarleton class, Ben Baty, Allen Bennett and Prosper Walker, to gather their advice on bringing back the Corps of Cadets and how it could benefit current students.

“It is an extraordinary opportunity to assist in developing young men and women as they prepare for future leadership positions, both in the military and civilian sectors,” Weldon said.

While the trio of alumni agreed with Weldon’s sentiments, the men expounded on the benefits students would receive from participating.

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“The Corps will give students an opportunity to learn how to speak, how to think and how to resolve a problem—not always in the easiest way, but in a successful way,” Walker said.

“Students will learn to walk with a military stature and always be on alert for situations in which they might be able to help.”

Participation in the Corps also will provide benefits in the classroom.

“The Corps gives students a broader look at what college life can be like,” Bennett said. “It stretches their ability to study a variety of subjects as well as teaching discipline across all areas of their lives.”

In addition to the academic aspects, students will benefit by gaining a foundation as well-rounded individuals.

“Students will get a great education at Tarleton and the Corps will offer them an opportunity to develop the essential qualities to attaining success,” Baty said. “Students will learn how to extend themselves and how to communicate. The Corps will instill the ability to set high expectations for themselves as well as the confidence to know they will achieve their expectations.”

Ben Baty

Hometown/Current Residence Stephenville Major at Tarleton Pre-Law Baty was a charter member of the Wainwright Rifles and served as a platoon leader. After Tarleton, Baty spent time in the military as an airborne school instructor before attending Texas A&M University. Upon graduation, Baty joined Shell Oil Company for an impressive 38-year career, serving as sales manager and regional sales manager for several areas of the U.S. before being assigned to Houston as the manager for the Strategic Planning and Research Department for Marketing. Baty has served as president of the Stephenville Historical House Museum, the Tarleton Alumni Association, and the Tarleton Foundation.

Allen Bennett

Hometown Moran Current Residence Abilene Major at Tarleton Business Administration

Ben Baty and his future wife, Nellie, relax at Jake and Dorothy’s Cafe in Stephenville.

“Both the private and public sectors today are in need of strong leadership,” said Dr. Alex del Carmen, executive director of the School of Criminology, Criminal Justice and Strategic Studies, which houses the Department of Military Science and the Corps of Cadets. “Tarleton’s Corps of Cadets will nurture individuals who will go out into society and become our future leaders.”

Students who choose to participate in the Corps of Cadets will enroll in military science classes, but not be required to join the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC). The lower floor of a new residence hall, Traditions, will house the Corps office, and cadets will live together there. Through structure, discipline and a code of ethics, Tarleton’s Corps of Cadets will enhance student leadership skills.

“The United States military ethos is built on clearly articulated values meant to serve the greater good and elevate service above self,” Weldon said.

“The Cadet Corps will have a unique opportunity to promote those values through leadership and character development, combined with the pursuit of academic excellence. These elements, expressed through the students who will choose to participate in the program, should produce outstanding graduates and enable the Cadet Corps to become a standard bearer of excellence for Tarleton State University.”

To hear more from these three former cadets about their experiences and life impact, visit www.tarleton.edu/cadetsvideo.

After Tarleton, Bennett entered the Air Force ROTC program at Texas Tech University. He flew for 23 years as an Air Force pilot, including several missions supporting the atomic test and also in the Vietnam war. Bennett taught for three years at Mississippi State ROTC and opened his own flight school in Abilene after retiring from the military. One of the pilots who flew over Memorial Stadium when it was rededicated, Bennett continues to fly today, including, weather permitting, on his birthday each year and on Dec. 17― the anniversary of the Wright Brothers’ first flight.

Prosper ‘Prop’ Walker Hometown Moran Current Residence Belton Major at Tarleton Social Science

Walker was selected as the student commander in his second year at Tarleton. After Tarleton, Walker attended the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. He served 32 years in the military field artillery. After his service, Walker worked for about 30 years with one of the largest construction companies in the world.

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From the ground up Alpha leader climbs company ladder

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hen Kathy Acock went to work in her father’s NASA-based construction office for a little more than four bucks an hour, she had no idea what the future held.

Not one to give extra perks to family, her father started her at a dollar less an hour than her predecessor. Seems he couldn’t verify her skills. She had to prove herself.

Today, Kathy is chief executive officer of Alpha Building Corporation—the firm her father founded in 1969—and the reason Alumni Island is home to a 10-foot bronze statue of John Tarleton.

Fortunately, it wasn’t long before Kathy was on her way to the top of the company ladder. “My opportunities really started when they moved me into the main office,” she notes.

“Mother taught me bookkeeping and accounting; Dad taught me the operations side of the business.”

Over the years, Kathy progressed through the organization and gained a thorough knowledge of every aspect of the business.

In 1989, she led Alpha in the pursuit of bidding a program

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called job order contracting. Kathy explains. “The program was to provide construction services for under a certain dollar amount and was recurring in nature.”

Similar to Alpha’s work for NASA, she bid the project and won. Later, the company secured a job order contract with Texas A&M University. That got the ball rolling on job order contracts with multiple universities in The Texas A&M University System, including Tarleton.

Today, Kathy oversees the entire corporation, using more than 40 years of construction management skill, knowledge and experience. She focuses on marketing and business development, based on the ethical and guiding principles her father laid down when he founded the firm to support NASA at the Johnson Space Center in Houston—work that continued from the Apollo to the Shuttle programs.

“It was in this environment,” Kathleen notes, “that we developed our philosophy of customer service, process, quality assurance and safety. These continue today as the hallmarks of our construction experience.”

An active force in the industry, she is a board member and former chair of the South Texas chapter of Associated Builders & Contractors, a founding member and 2016 chair of the

Construction Industry Advisory Council for the College of Architecture, Construction & Planning at the University of Texas at San Antonio and a member of The Texas A&M University Construction Industry Advisory Council. She also is a national board member of the Institute for Leadership in Capital Projects.

Like father, like daughter, Kathy brought her son, Jonathon Rogero, into the firm and made him ‘verify his skills’ over the years before becoming Alpha’s president, bringing the third generation into company management.

Alpha now has completed more than $1 billion in construction projects, growing from a single office contractor into one of the most respected general contractors in the South.

Alpha Building has looked for ways to support the communities and universities where it does business. That sense of “ethics and giving back” prompted Kathy’s decision to fund the casting of the bronze John Tarleton statue that graces the center of the newly dedicated Alumni Island.

“The larger-than-life founder’s statue is the centerpiece of the project,” Kathy notes. “When Tarleton asked if we could give back to enable John Tarleton to stand tall over the university that he launched, the decision was easy. I wanted to contribute.”

It’s the kind of gift that she’s been proud to make as the leader of her firm.

Kathy Acock poses in the Learning Commons area of the Dick Smith Library, which her firm, Alpha Building Corporation, renovated.

Kathy Acock shakes the hand of President F. Dominic Dottavio after presenting him with a copy of the Eagle award for the Alumni Island project.

An Eagle for Alpha When Alpha Building Corporation undertook the Alumni Island project, CEO Kathleen Acock knew the project was an award-winner.

Maybe even an Eagle from the Associated Builders and Contractors.

She was right.

At the unveiling of the bronze statue of John Tarleton, made possible by a donation from Alpha, Kathleen sort of let the cat—Eagle—out of the bag without sharing the details.

She kept quiet until this past October, when she presented President F. Dominic Dottavio a copy of the Excellence in Construction Eagle Award at the Alumni Island dedication ceremony.

“We wrote up the story of Alumni Island and, of all the submissions, we came home with the Eagle.”

The award—among the most prestigious in the construction industry— celebrates the work of the architects, engineers, facilities team and subcontractors who contributed to the project.

In addition to Alumni Island, Alpha has completed a significant number of Tarleton projects, including: 

Dick Smith Library renovation, creating the Learning Commons area



Rome Street renovation

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Lower Level Thompson Student Center



Trogdon House renovation

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Center for Instructional Innovation (CII) renovation

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Tarleton Center renovation, creating a one-stop-shop for students seeking assistance with admissions, housing, financial aid, registration and other services

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Parking expansion, and

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Numerous deferred maintenance projects.

For more on Kathy Acock and the Alumni Island project and the Eagle award, see www.tarleton.edu/abcvideo.

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Growing up on a farm outside Cleburne, DeWayne Burns knew God had a plan for his life. He didn’t know it involved being a state representative.

Or that there would be opportunities to help families in Johnson and Bosque counties (District 58), or to aid his alma mater in gaining millions of dollars.

It’s on the floor of the Texas State Legislature that his light shines bright.

A Bright Light B Y C ec i l i a J ac o bs

DeWayne Burns (second from right) with a few of his Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity brothers at Tarleton.

BURNS

DeWayne had no idea the plan would bring him to Tarleton State University after a year at Texas A&M, that he’d marry high school sweetheart Jennifer Ormsby or that they’d have three wonderful children: Parker, Austin and Emma.

He did know the plan had everything to do with what he learned at New Hope Baptist Church—make life better for others and do it in a way that best reflects the example of Jesus Christ. It’s a lifestyle DeWayne calls ministry. The way he lives day in, day out.

When it comes to faith and family, Tarleton and Texas, DeWayne burns with passion. Every pun intended.

During the most recent legislative session, the 1994 Tarleton graduate helped secure almost $40 million for the first building on the university’s planned campus in southwest Fort Worth.

DeWayne and his wife, Jennifer “As the only state-supported university providing bachelor’s degrees in Fort Worth, Tarleton helps the region meet its workforce needs and improves overall quality of life,” DeWayne said. “Tarleton gave me one of the best educational experiences in America. I’m grateful to give something in return.”

Recalling his days as an agricultural services and development major, DeWayne praised Tarleton’s real-world, hands-on learning experiences, rich traditions and life-long friendships forged as a member of Lambda Chi Alpha—one of the university’s oldest fraternities. An unpaid Tarleton internship with the Texas Department of Agriculture ultimately led to a career in state government.

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DeWayne Burns (far right) with a group of college friends at Tarleton.

DeWayne worked with then-agriculture commissioner Rick Perry, researching proposals for the 74th session of the Texas Legislature.

“I can’t tell you how much I appreciate that internship,” he said, “or how it changed my life. It was part of God’s perfect plan and started the ball rolling toward a life of public service.”

Eventually, DeWayne was promoted to coordinator for special issues in the department’s Intergovernmental Affairs Division. He later served as an inspector responsible for weights and measures compliance, crop and seed certification, and enforcement of Texas’ plant and pest quarantine laws, among other tasks over a 10-county area.

Along the way, the Republican freshman representative has served the Cleburne Independent School District as vice president of its board of trustees and Johnson County as a member of the Economic Development Commission, president of the Farm Bureau and fire commissioner for Emergency Services District No. 1.

“The Bible teaches us that what our hands find to do, to do it with all our might,” he explained.

“When I see a need, I try my best to meet it.

“Whether it’s defending the rights of land owners, reducing property taxes, securing our border, ensuring religious liberty, guaranteeing children access to a quality education, constructing and maintaining roads and highways, co-authoring a landmark piece of legislation known as Open Carry or protecting the most defenseless members of society, everything I do is a ministry. Success belongs to God.” DeWayne isn’t sure what the future holds, but he plans to seek a second term.

“Everything in my life—from the family farm to my first stint in the Texas House of Representatives—has prepared me for this time,” he said. “I look forward to doing everything I can to make the lives of my friends and neighbors even better.

“To be a bright light.”

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s s a l C tes N� On May 26, 1968, Tarleton commissioned these 10 young men as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army. On Aug. 29, the men held a reunion at David and Rose Ann Kincannon’s home in Morgan Mill. A feeling of anticipation preceded the reunion, but friendships were quickly renewed once the men came together. The men hope to make it an annual or bi-annual event. The only missing member of the group was Bill McLennan, who died in combat during the Vietnam War. The men are standing in the same position in both photos, which is as follows:

’71 James Whitehead, B.S. in mathematics and ’75 M.Ed. in educational administration; ’68 Alan Waters, B.S. in general business; ’68 Jim Robinson, B.A. in English; ’68 John Norman, B.S. in history; ’68 David Kincannon, B.A. in government; ’68 Mike Hennech, B.A. in history and ’75 M.Ed. in educational administration; ’68 Don Grissom, B.A. in English and ’75 M.Ed. in educational administration; ’68 Jerry Golden, B.A. in government; ’67 Kent Donaldson, B.S. in biology; and Bill McLennan (deceased)

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’69 Terry Leflar, B.S.

in industrial technology, is the owner of Leflar Insurance Agency and has more than 30 years of insurance experience.

Leflar and his team recently launched a charity drive in support of a young wife and mother who was diagnosed with cancer. Leflar’s agency is also launching social media presence to garner more support. Their efforts have grown into a campaign called “Agents of Change.”

’87 Gary Gerber, B.M

in music, was named dean of the School of Fine Arts at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Ark. Also, Gerber is the Chair of the Division of Music, Director of Choral Activities and professor of music at Ouachita Baptist University. In addition to his degree from Tarleton, Gerber received his master’s and doctorate degrees from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in choral conducting.

Lew Hunnicutt, M.S. in teaching agriculture, was named as the assistant provost and campus director at the University of Georgia’s Griffin campus. Prior to this, Hunnicutt was the vice president of extended services at Frank Phillips College, where he was responsible for the operation of branch campuses in Perryton and Dalhart and where he oversaw extended education programs such as continuing education and corporate development. In addition, Hunnicutt received his bachelor’s degree from Tarleton in agriculture, his master’s from New Mexico State University and his doctorate from the University of Wyoming.

’89 Billy Kniffen, M.S.

in teaching agriculture, is a water resource specialist and recognized expert on rainwater harvesting. Kniffen spoke about “Roof Reliant Landscaping” at the Riverside Nature Center in Kerrville as part of the center’s series “Conversations with Conservationists.”

Kniffen has more than 30 years of experience as a water resource associate in the biological and agricultural engineering department with the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service. In addition to his degree from Tarleton, Kniffen received his bachelor’s from Abilene Christian University.

Kristi (Throne) Strickland, M.A. in history, was named Texas Association of Secondary School Principals Region 11 Outstanding High School Principal of the Year. Strickland has guided the leadership team at Lake Dallas High School since 2010. Under her leadership, Lake Dallas High School was recognized in 2013 and 2014 by U.S. News and World Report as one of America’s Best High Schools, established four new Career Tech Academies, and established a Collegiate Academy with North Central Texas College that enhanced dual credit offerings. Strickland also earned her bachelor’s in business administration from Tarleton and her doctorate in American history from the University of North Texas in 2000.

’91 Dotty (McDaniel) Woodson, M.S.

in teaching agriculture, a well-known water specialist with the Texas AgriLife Extension Service, was the guest speaker for a program hosted by the Native Plant Society of Texas’ Cross Timbers chapter. She spoke on using native plants to save water as well as landscape design and basic plant care. Woodson also received her bachelor’s in horticulture and landscape from Tarleton as well as her doctorate from Texas A&M University.

’00 Sonny Cruse, M.Ed.

in educational administration, was named as the superintendent of Graham Independent School District.

Cruse taught and coached in Temple before he worked as an administrator in China Spring. He went on to Bonham where he served as superintendent for five years. Cruse also received his bachelor’s degree from Tarleton in physical education.

’01 Natalie Davidson, B.S.

in exercise and sports studies, was named as the new executive director for the Central Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church and Glen Lake Camp and Retreat Center. Prior to accepting the new position, Davidson served as a director of Glen Lake for six years. In addition to her degree from Tarleton, Davidson received her Master of Christian Arts in Education from Asbury Theological Seminary.

’08 Mary Boedeker, M.Ed.

in educational administration, was named as the principal of Marti Elementary School. Prior to accepting the position, Boedeker served as the principal of Adams Elementary since June of 2011. She began her career with Cleburne ISD in 1996 as a math teacher at Cleburne Middle School.

Boedeker served a total of 12 years at the middle school level, the majority of that time teaching seventh grade reading and literature. In addition, Boedeker received her principal’s certification from Tarleton and graduated Summa Cum Laude from Texas Wesleyan University for her bachelor’s degree.

Celia (Avant) Drews, Ed.D. in educational leadership,

principal of Lorena Middle School was chosen as the Region 12 Outstanding Principal of the Year by the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals. Drews has been a member of the leadership team at Lorena Middle School since 2009. In addition, Drews earned her bachelor’s degree from Baylor University and her master’s from Tarleton in guidance and counseling.

’14 Hannah Chambers, B.S.

in agricultural services and development, was hired by the Medina Independent School District as its FFA sponsor and the high school’s agricultural teacher. Before transferring to Tarleton, Chambers attended Schreiner University in Kerrville for one year.

’15 Cody Propps, B.S.

in kinesiology, returned to his hometown of Benjamin as the new head girls’ athletics coach and fifth grade teacher at Benjamin ISD.

Berdie Thompson, M.B.A. in business administration,

was hired as the human resources coordinator at the Day Nursery of Abilene. In addition to her degree from Tarleton, Thompson has a bachelor’s in business administration from the University of Phoenix.

’05 Crystal (Dail) Rose, M.S.

in counseling psychology, was named as the director of Ranger College’s Learning Frameworks program, which is designed to help new students adjust to college life. Prior to the position, Rose worked as an adjunct faculty member for Ranger College. In addition to her degree from Tarleton, Rose earned her bachelor’s from Howard Payne University.

Justin Zielinski, B.B.A. in business, graduated as a guard specialist in the U.S. Army from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C.

Contact us

Send your alumni and class updates to Tarleton State University Box T-0730, Stephenville, TX 76402 media@tarleton.edu | (254) 968-9460

Texans 19

Davene Carter takes talents on tour Former high-flying Tarleton basketball star Davene Carter will continue to display the talents that helped the Texans reach the Final Four last season, joining the legendary Harlem Globetrotters for a world tour.

One of four rookies joining the renowned basketball entertainment company, Davene gained national attention in the 2015 college slam dunk competition as the “Dark Horse Dunker,” ultimately finishing third.

The 6’ 6” Dallas native helped lead Tarleton to a 106-23 record during his four-year career, with last year’s team setting a school record of 31 wins in reaching the NCAA Division II Final Four for only the second time in Tarleton history.

“We can’t wait to hit the floor and celebrate our 90th year with families around the world,” said Globetrotters Legend Sweet Lou Dunbar, the team’s director of player personnel, “and we are excited about what these outstanding rookies will bring to the court.”

Tarleton associate head coach Chris Reisman says the team is “ecstatic” that Davene has joined a first-class organization.”

“Davene is a tremendous young man who has worked extremely hard and deserves this opportunity,” Reisman continues. “His work ethic and leadership were two major reasons we went to the Final Four last season.”

Davene agrees that his work ethic and passion for the game attracted the Globetrotters, “as did my personality off the court. The Globetrotters look for three things in an athlete: a great basketball player, a great entertainer and a great person. My family and Tarleton have instilled in me the right core values that have led me to where I am today.”

The Texan shot 66 percent from the field during his Tarleton career, led the team in rebounding his last two seasons, and was a Lone Star Conference All-Defensive Team selection as a junior.

After Tarleton’s season ended, a Globetrotter scout contacted Davene, encouraging him to try out. “It was an easy decision for me— the Harlem Globetrotters are world famous—and I was honored for the opportunity.”

Davene and the Globetrotters will play over 330 games in more than 260 cities in 48 states, eight Canadian provinces and Puerto Rico from December 26 through April 2016.

“We have a lot planned,” says Davene, “like our ‘Great Assist’ initiative, where we pledge to spread 100 million smiles over the next 10 years with acts of kindness and good will. I’m looking forward to everything there is to experience about being a Harlem Globetrotter.”

Reisman noted that “Davene is a quality person and one of the most popular players I ever coached. He always has been and will continue to be a great ambassador for Tarleton State University.”

Dark Horse Dunker

sports

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to Harlem Globetrotter To watch Davene Carter show off his dunking ability while on the Texan Basketball Team, visit www.tarleton.edu/globetrotter.

The Spirit of Tarleton

Your gift can make a great tax deduction while helping a Tarleton student!

Scholarships clear the path that leads to a degree and career success.

During the holiday season, won’t you consider a gift to support our students?

Your gift can make all the difference on campus today, in a career tomorrow, for a lifetime.

Help Tarleton stay student-focused—preparing tomorrow’s leaders.

Call us today, or visit

www.tarleton.edu/giving.

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Box T-0570 Stephenville, TX 76402 (2 54 ) 968- 9000 | www.tarleton.edu

The ring ceremony is another Texan tradition filled with meaning and memories for students who receive their beautiful commemorative ring marking their time and achievements at Tarleton.

The ring itself—first in the world with series numbering as part of the design— features the traditional border of the University seal encircling the Tarleton T and State of Texas, with the campus gates and cannon surrounded by oaks and antique lamp posts on one side and the impressive architecture of the administration building on the other.

Wear the ring with

Tarleton pride!

Order yours now!

1-800-854-7464 or visit www.jostens.com