TROY Magazine - Summer/Fall 2015

THE TROJAN WARRIOR SPIRIT LIVES HERE M A G A Z I N E Summer/Fall 2015

Vision becomes reality on the Phenix City riverfront Celebrating the band: 75th and 50th anniversaries Art donations build world-class gallery Sports Hall of Fame adds eight TROY family mourns Dr. Doug Hawkins

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Troy University Magazine Summer/Fall 2015 Publisher Donna Clark Schubert Editor Clif Lusk Publication Designer Rob Drinkard (‘09) Contributing Matt Clower (‘04), Andy Ellis, Marion Givhan, Adam Prendergast, Emily Price (‘09), Matt Mays (‘10), Whitney Hartselle Photographers Kevin Glackmeyer, Jonah Enfinger, Melissa Sullivan Printer Interstate Printing and Graphics Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. SVC for Advancement and Economic Development Walter D. Givhan (‘89) AVC for Marketing and Communication Donna Clark Schubert AVC for Development Dr. Jean Laliberte Alumni Affairs Director Faith Ward (‘81, ‘87) National Alumni Association President Bob Boothe (‘63, ‘78) Troy University Magazine is published three times a year for the alumni and friends of Troy University. For more information, contact the Office of University Relations at: 253 Adams Administration Building Troy, AL 36082 Phone: (334) 670-3196 Fax: (334) 670-3274 E-mail: troymagazine@troy.edu Troy University Magazine welcomes comments, ideas and suggestions from readers. Editors reserve the right to decide if letters to the editor will be published and to edit submissions for content and length. Copyright 2015 by Troy University, all rights reserved.

Troy University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist and doctoral degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Troy University. The Commission is to be contacted only if there is evidence that appears to support an institution’s significant noncompliance with a requirement or standard. www.troy.edu

Find us on:

Trojans are gearing up for football season under new head coach Neal Brown.

Season and single-game tickets are available from the TROY ticket office.

FEATURED STORIES 9

DONATIONS OF ART

Dali, Monet, Warhol, Matisse and Renoir are just a few of the pieces of art donated to the University.

TROY family mourns the death of longtime trustee R. Douglas Hawkins, DVM.

10 CELEBRATING THE BAND The first notes of a marching band

blew across TROY 75 years ago. This year, the Trojan Nation celebrates the band’s birth and the 50th anniversary of the Sound of the South.

15TroyVISION BECOMES REALITY” University opens its 48,000 square-foot

Riverfront Campus in downtown Phenix City and pulls together a vision for progress and growth for the east Alabama community.

23 HALL OF FAME ADDS EIGHT The Troy University Sports Hall of Fame inducted eight Trojans as the fourth Hall of Fame class in ceremonies in Trojan Arena.

IN EVERY ISSUE 5 TORCHLIGHT “Prince of Tides” author named

University’s Hall-Waters Prize winner

21 ATHLETICS

Season ticket packages available for football

27 ALUM NOTES News from TROY alumni

FROM THE DESK OF THE CHANCELLOR July 10, 2015, was a landmark day in the life of Troy University as we dedicated our new riverfront building on the Phenix City Campus. The opening of this beautiful building signals a new era in our 40-year service to the Bi-Cities of Phenix City, Alabama, and Columbus, Georgia.

The opening celebration was enhanced by the announcement that our friend and colleague from Xi’an, China, Dr. Huo Baozhu, will donate to the University and the city of Phenix City an eight-foot-tall statue of the Phoenix, the mythical bird that rose from its own ashes. Dr. Huo’s artwork already complements our new riverfront building, as his Trojan Warrior statue is the centerpiece of our Daniel Foundation Plaza that overlooks the Chattahoochee River. The building features artwork by New York artist and Phenix City native Mike Howard. This edition of the Troy University Magazine recounts the opening celebration and showcases this addition to our University.

The “Sound of the South” Marching Band is an institution at Troy University. Since the arrival of Dr. Johnny Long to TROY 50 years ago, the “Sound” has taken its place as an elite college marching band and is our largest student organization. I have met hundreds of Trojan alumni over the years who tell me that marching in Dr. Long’s band was a highlight of their undergraduate years. This edition features the golden anniversary of the SOTS, a milestone all Trojans will appreciate.

This edition also introduces our alumni to one of the new members of our leadership team, Dr. Felicia Bell, director of the Rosa Parks Museum. Dr. Bell brings both academic credentials and museum experience to the position, and we are looking for her to take the Rosa Parks Museum in new and exciting directions.

This issue also shines the spotlight on what was an exceptional spring sports season at TROY. Our women’s golf team won its second consecutive Sun Belt Conference tournament, and Coach Bart Barnes won his second Coach of the Year award from the league. Our first-year softball coach, Beth Mullins, won Co-Coach of the Year honors after leading our program to a 32-23 record, including two wins over top-25-ranked teams.

In closing, I urge all Trojans to keep in touch with your alma mater by sending the news of your career, family information or any milestones in your lives to our Office of University Relations for inclusion in an upcoming edition of this magazine by emailing alumniaffairs@troy.edu. We want to hear from you!

Sincerely,

Jack Hawkins, Jr., Ph.D. Chancellor Note: As this issue of the TROY Magazine was going to press, the University lost longtime trustee and friend Dr. Doug Hawkins following complications of open-heart surgery. “Dr. Doug” was a true Trojan and valued colleague whose legacy will be felt at TROY for generations to come. More information about Dr. Doug is found later in this issue. Memorial contributions may be made to the Troy University Foundation.

For more information, please call 334-670-3320.

3 · TROY Magazine

4TORCHLIGHT

Morris Turner (center right) and his summer roommate Chinese student Kai Chen, dive into the TROY experience during Spring Commencement with Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. and commencement speaker Lawrence Tynes during the pre-commencement breakfast.

STU DE NT ALU M NI PRESIDE NT CREATES CONN ECTIONS BETWEE N ALU M N I, STU DENTS Morris Turner smiles naturally, a grin that emits good will and understanding.

He’s unusual for a rising college senior; his words and actions give the impression of rare wisdom for a young man.

That wisdom, as well as an appreciation of the positive impact the University has on students, has led Morris to become the president of the Student Alumni Association (SAA), a chapter of the Troy University National Alumni Association.

Morris, a finance major with a minor in leadership, sees the full potential of the SAA for students. For a $25 membership fee, a student member receives TROY-themed goodies, discounts at the Troy Campus bookstore and area businesses and opportunities to earn practical leadership experience while at TROY.

by Marion Givhan Because membership is open to all students of any academic discipline, the inclusiveness goes along well with Morris’ appreciation for diversity—an aspect of TROY that makes the University special to him.

“I love the multiple perspectives of people from different backgrounds,” he said. “I think the opportunity to clash is beautiful.”

Morris has spent the summer living in one of TROY’s residence halls with a roommate from China who has provided him with opportunities to learn about a different culture and even more about his own.

“Whenever we don’t understand each other, we can ask,” he said. “It’s not a ‘you’re wrong, and I’m right’ situation. I think it’s fun.”

In addition to helping foster a stronger connection between the current student body and TROY’s beloved alumni in his role

Organized five years ago, the group’s main goal is to build

as SAA President, Morris also acts as a Supreme Court justice

Trojan pride and provide students a networking avenue with

for the Student Government Association and serves his fellow

alumni nationwide as well as build traditions and lasting

TROY students as a residence assistant in Gardner Hall.

relationships with the University.

As president, Morris provides leadership and foresight to his fellow officers; however, he does not view himself as the sole fuel of change for the organization.

“The student members are the fuel of change,” he said. “I’m an officer just like everyone else.”

“I think I understand the opportunities to take advantage of,” he said. “We’re creating that vertical connection between the student body and the alumni. We’re networking.”

Marion Givhan is an intern in the Troy University division of Marketing and Communication.

TROY Magazine · 4

Felicia Bell named Rosa Parks Museum Director by

Marion Givhan

Dr. Felicia Bell’s interest in history began at the age of 13 when her father handed her a book and said, “Read this.”

It was the autobiography of Malcolm

the museum’s director.

“I want the museum to become the nucleus for tough discussions, a place

X—heavy reading for a 13 year old—“but

for quality dialogue coupled with

I couldn’t put it down,” she said. “That

scholarship,” she said. “It should be

was when I started to be conscious of the

more than just giving tours.”

black experience in history.”

Today, heavy reading has led Dr. Bell to a

Scholarship is a key element in Dr. Bell’s plans.

doctorate in American history, a master’s in

“With the climate in America right

historic preservation and a new role as the

now—in the midst of this 21st century

director of the Troy University Rosa Parks

civil rights movement that we’re

Museum on the Montgomery Campus.

experiencing—we have the opportunity

“I’m so glad to have the confidence of TROY and Montgomery,” she said. “I’ve always wanted to be a museum director.”

Kicking off her time at the museum by

Felicia Bell

the goals Dr. Bell hopes to achieve as

commemorating the 60 th anniversary of Rosa Parks’ arrest could set the tone for

to do something with depth at the museum,” she said.

Marion Givhan is an intern in the Troy University division of Marketing and Communication.

“Prince of Tides” author Pat Conroy awarded Hall-Waters Prize Troy University awarded its HallWaters Prize to renowned author Pat Conroy at the Alabama Book Festival in Montgomery.

One of the most popular Southern writers in the past 40 years, Conroy’s works include the bestselling novels “The Great Santini” and “The Prince of Tides,” published in 1986 and adapted to the screen for the 1991 Academy Award-nominated film by the same title.

The Hall-Waters Prize

regularly to a person who has made significant contributions to Southern heritage and culture in history, literature or the arts. Past winners include Rep. John Lewis, Rick Bragg and Bobbie Ann Mason.

“Pat Conroy has produced an amazing body of writing over his 45-year career,” said Dr. Kirk Curnutt, chair of English at Troy University’s Montgomery Campus and a director of the Alabama Book Festival.

of The Citadel lends his work a powerful personal valence that enthralls his fans.

Because he is also a thoroughbred Southerner, his language rings with the charm and beauty of place. Simply stated, he’s an icon. We’re honored he would accept the Hall-Waters Prize and thrilled for him to appear at the Alabama Book Festival.”

“…Pat’s own background as a child of a career military officer and a graduate

was established by TROY alumnus Dr. Wade Hall, an author, former member of the faculty at the University of Florida and professor emeritus of English at Bellarmine University in Louisville, Kentucky.

Dr. Hall, a native of Bullock County, endowed the prize as a memorial to his parents, Wade Hall, Sr. and Sarah Elizabeth Waters Hall. The award is presented 5 · TROY Magazine

The Hall-Waters Prize for literature was presented at the Alabama Book Festival. Pictured (from left) is Dr. Kirk Curnutt, professor of English and Chair of English on the Montgomery Campus; Senior Vice Chancellor Walter Givhan; author Pat Conroy; and Mr. Greg Swem, a representative of donor Wade Hall.

Tanner Hicks joins Alumni staff TROY alumnus Tanner Hicks has joined

coordinator for the Alumni Association,

the Alumni Affairs staff as membership

I hope to contribute in a substantial

coordinator.

way to the development and growth of

In his new position, Hicks will assist

the University. It’s a blessing, and I am

chapters in managing and developing

proud to have the opportunity to give

alumni events, serve as a liaison

back to Troy University, which has given

between alumni chapters and the

me so much.”

Hicks (’14) holds the bachelor’s degree

University, promote University programs and events within the chapters, recruit

in sport and fitness management and is

new dues-paying members and

a former member of the TROY Trojans

further work to cultivate and maintain

baseball team.

relationships with alumni.

“I am extremely grateful for all of the opportunities I have been given by Troy University, and I am really looking forward to continuing my career as

Tanner Hicks

a Trojan,” he said. “As membership

McClain named Director of Athletics Jeremy McClain has been named Troy University’s Director of Athletics, a decision announced in an August 14 news conference with Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr. He comes to TROY from the University of Southern Mississippi where he oversaw day-to-day operations and licensing, corporate development, fundraising and ticket sales. He has also been A.D. at Delta State University and served as the Director of Development of the Delta State University Foundation. As a Division II All-American baseball player, he earned an undergraduate and master’s degree from Delta State and played five years of professional baseball. He’s the University’s ninth A.D. (Pictured below) Welcoming Jeremy McClain as the Trojans’ new Director of Athletics are Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr. and trustees (from left) Gibson Vance, Lamar P. Higgins, Allen Owen, Jeremy McClain, Karen Carter, Ed Crowell, Dr. Doug Hawkins and

Jeremy McClain

Sen. Gerald Dial, President Pro-Tem.

TROY Magazine · 6

Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr. and Dr. Doug Hawkins, then-President Pro-Tem of the Board of Trustees, review progress in Trojan Arena during its construction.

Doug Hawkins: A giant of TROY On Saturday, Sept. 5, the flags in the city of Troy and on the Troy University Troy Campus were brought to half mast, and in Raleigh, North Carolina, TROY Trojans’ football helmets had a new adornment on them.

“Dr. Doug” in simple, white letters paid homage to Dr. Robert Douglas Hawkins, the University’s longest-serving trustee

support on the Board of Trustees was invaluable, and I always knew where I stood with Dr. Doug. He was a true Trojan!”

There was no doubt “Dr. Doug,” as he was known around the Troy Campus, was a Trojan, although he had graduated from Auburn in veterinary science.

“The Troy University family lost a great Trojan who loved and

and long-time President Pro-Tem, who died earlier that day in

gave his all for the betterment of the University. At a pivotal

Montgomery from complications of open-heart surgery.

crossroad in Troy University history, he led the charge for the

A citizen of Troy, Alabama, for 57 years, Dr. Hawkins, a

selection of our current Chancellor, Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. That

veterinarian by trade and education, was involved in major

one act alone may be his greatest accomplishment,” said

initiatives in both the city and the University, spearheading

trustee Lamar P. Higgins, a former TROY SGA president.

TROY’s internationalization efforts, its move to Division I

“Doug Hawkins had a vision for Troy University to be the

athletics, the launch of the first doctoral program and the

best it could be, and he brought the right leader to make that

creation of the University’s Greek system. A native of Luverne,

happen,” Higgins said. “His presence is embedded not only in

Alabama, Dr. Doug served on the Board of Trustees for 35

Troy University as it stands now, but Doug Hawkins’ leadership

years, founded the TROY chapter of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity and

will continue to write the history of our beloved University. I

served as its advisor for more than 25 years.

was honored to serve with him on the Board of Trustees, but I

“We stand on the shoulders of giants at TROY, and foremost among these giants was Dr. Doug Hawkins. With his passing, we have lost one of the best friends and most loyal supporters a University could have,” said Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr. “On a personal level, I have lost a valued colleague and friend. His 7 · TROY Magazine

was blessed to call him my friend. If ever one person embodied a true Trojan, it was Dr. R. Douglas Hawkins.”

Trustee and friend Lamar Higgins with Dr. Doug Hawkins at recent commencement

A fitting tribute Funeral services for Dr. R. Douglas Hawkins were held Monday, Sept. 7, at Troy’s First Baptist Church where “Dr. Doug” served as a deacon. Among those who eulogized him were Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr. and University Trustee Lamar P. Higgins, who summed up his comments with the following: Robert W. Smith and Ralph Ford composed the alma mater.

I don't know who they had in mind, but it truly references my friend Dr. Doug Hawkins. When I think of Doug Hawkins and the alma mater, I will use the words to say: Upon the mighty walls of TROY, I met a lifelong friend, I grew in knowledge, truth and strength

(Top left) Dr. Doug Hawkins and Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. during a football game

Our friendship will never end.

(Top right) Spring Commencement speaker, alumnus and NFL great Lawrence

With the promise of the future

Tynes with Dr. Doug Hawkins during the pre-commencement luncheon

and the guidance he gave in the past

(Middle) Sharing in “Dr. Doug’s” honorary Doctor of Laws festivities are Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. and First Lady Janice Hawkins, and members of the Doug Hawkins family: (from left) Holly Anderson, Melanie Hawkins, trustee Lamar Higgins, Dean Hawkins, Dr. Doug Hawkins, Rob Drinkard, Morgan Drinkard and Martha Lynn Drinkard.

I pledge a solemn vow to Doug our friendship everlast.

When I raise our mighty Trojan Sword a beacon to the world throughout the ages brightly shines Doug Hawkins' guiding light of TROY.

(Bottom) Dr. Doug Hawkins, President Pro-Tem of the University’s Board of Trustees, congratulates Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr. on the unification of Troy University in 2005.

TROY Magazine · 8

Art donations build world-class gallery

Several donations of art will boost student learning at Troy University, bringing artists alive that otherwise would live only in classroom presentations.

Dali, Monet, Warhol, Matisse and Renoir will be matched with African artifacts and other artists in a gallery on the Troy Campus that will let students see the work of masters first-hand.

“These collections will give students a personal glimpse that they might otherwise never get to see,” said Dr. Jean Laliberte, Associate Vice Chancellor for Development. “The real value of the artwork is in its exhibit quality.”

Dr. Doug Hawkins, President Pro-Tem emeritus of the University’s Board of Trustees, believes the creation of a museum-quality exhibition will create something that will add considerable benefit to the University.

“This is the genesis of something that can put TROY on the map,” he said, “and donating artwork is a great way to help the University.”

Hawkins and his family have donated 11 pieces, including one by Rembrandt and another by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, in addition to two pieces by Andy Warhol and three by Salvadore Dali.

“It’s a great way for students to realize how art—especially in the 20th century—has affected mankind,” Hawkins said.

“Having art that will stimulate students’ creativity and donations that improve the Foundation’s net worth is a winning situation for the entire University community.”

(Top left to right) Ashley Blankenship, Sr. Clarinet – SOTS, Julia Trese, Jr. Clarinet – SOTS and Michaela Marston, Jr. Flute – SOTS enjoy artwork by Nall hanging in Long Hall.

(Bottom) Henri Matisse lithograph printed in color entitled portrait En Vert, Bleu, Et Jaune donated by Dr. Doug Hawkins

Joining the Hawkins family in donations of art has been John Crosby, a retired publisher from Atlanta, who recently donated

Beyond adding a depth of understanding for students, Dr.

artifacts from Africa, China and Turkey. Phenix City artist Mike

Doug Hawkins said he hoped the recent donations would

Howard, who splits his time between his Hurtsboro studio and

generate a new dimension of giving from alumni and friends.

his New York City environs, has donated art that will be housed

“I’m hoping these donations will initiate interest from others

at the new Phenix City Riverfront Campus. That donation has

in donating artwork and artifacts and spur the momentum to

been valued at $1.7 million. Pike County native Nall has donated

create a world-class gallery on the Troy Campus,” he said.

various pieces of his creation to the University over several years.

Alumnus Mack McLendon, of Birmingham, recently donated to the University’s art collection, including a work he commissioned specifically for TROY. 9 · TROY Magazine

75 50

Celebrating years of marching band & years of the Sound of the South

by Whitney Hartselle

The Sound of the South marches in Washington, D.C., for the 1980 inauguration of President Ronald Reagan. The appearance was the second time the Sound had appeared for the President of the United States, the first being the inauguration of Richard Nixon in 1969.

Former TROY band members and directors are preparing to converge on Veterans Memorial Stadium on Nov. 14 to celebrate 75 years of marching band memories and the 50-year legacy of the Sound of the South and its creator, Dr. John M. Long.

In 1939, Troy State Teacher’s College appointed Lawrence Peterson as the first band director. In 1965, Long, the college’s newly hired band director, renamed the band the Sound of the South. With half a century of leadership and service to Troy University behind him, Dr. Long’s contributions to the University are still appreciated today.

TROY Magazine · 10

The Sound of the South takes form to participate in the inaugural parade for Gov. Robert Bentley’s first term in downtown Montgomery.

The Sound of the South’s humble beginnings have given way to a modern-day, 350-member marching band.

Presently, every TROY band director since Dr. Long has participated in the band as a student or assistant director before taking over as head director and continuing Long’s legacy. “The truth of the matter is we’re all building upon what Dr. Long built,” said Ralph Ford (’86), director of bands from 1986-2011.

“When Dr. Long got here in 1965, he was the one who created the legacy and had the shoulders that we all have been able to stand on to continue to take the band forward.”

Approaching the age of 90, Dr. Long’s legacy can be seen on full display within his office in Hawkins-Adams-Long Hall of Honor. There, his walls are covered in awards from a lifetime of achievement. In 2012, 17 former students nominated Dr. Long for the prestigious Kennedy Center/Stephen Sondheim Inspirational Teacher Award—a recognition Dr. Long is most proud of. “The Kennedy Award is the greatest honor I have received,” Dr. Long said. “I knew it came with a cash prize, but the award means so much more to me than that.”

Throughout the years, Dr. Long said his band members have had

Dr. and Mrs. John Long

The Sound’s new home on the Troy Campus, John Maloy Long Hall.

11 · TROY Magazine

In 2015, Troy University celebrates 75 years of band room memories. The band room in Long Hall provides practice space for today’s Sound of the South. opportunities to play at big events and venues. “Playing for the pro games is a favorite memory of mine,” he said. “We played for the Atlanta Falcons, Miami Dolphins and Tampa Bay. We were all so excited to play at those games.”

Dr. Long said his career has been full of incredible music and students. “I never met a student I didn’t like,” he said. “I liked every single one of them.”

Former band member Earl Franks (’86) said Dr. Long had a profound influence on his life. “I learned as much about leadership and being successful in my administrative career from Dr. Long as I did about band and music,” Franks said. “Dr. Long was a doer who got things done. He never focused on how something could not be accomplished; he just devised a way to get the task completed and consistently demonstrated a philosophy of no excuses.”

That “can-do” attitude trickles down with successive band directors. Dr. Mark Walker, who joined the Sound of the South as assistant band director and lower brass instructor in 2002 and was promoted to director of bands in 2011, said he and his students plan to continue building on to Dr. Long’s continued legacy.

“We’ve built our foundation on what past band directors have done,” Dr. Walker said. “We keep that in mind as we work really hard and make sure that they’re proud of what we do. The current students have to be mindful that they’re going to leave a legacy

for future generations. We need to leave the band better than we found it so that future band members—some who aren’t even born yet—have a place in the Sound of the South.”

Harselle is a senior broadcast journalism major from Monroeville.

Band alumni reunion Nov. 13-14 Troy University Band Alumni (TUBA) Association members will tune up on Nov. 13-14 to celebrate the 75 th anniversary of the band and the 50 th anniversary of the “Sound of the South.”

“This year’s reunion is about closing one chapter in the history of the association and beginning a new one,” said Michael Bird, the association’s president (2013-15). “The reunion is there to get everyone connected—the older members who played under Dr. Long and the newer members under Robert W. Smith, Ralph Ford and Dr. Mark Walker.”

For the first time, the final home game of each season has been designated “Sound of the South Reunion” due to many members being high school band directors and school teachers who have early-October obligations. In year’s past, the reunion has taken place at Homecoming.

“TUBA has planned many activities for our alumni for the weekend,” Bird said. “As Dr. Long would say, ‘the moon is turning into a football,’ so we definitely want everyone to know about the Band Reunion.”

Highlighting this year’s reunion will be the unveiling of “Fanfare: The 75-Year Legacy of the Troy University Bands,” a coffee table book featuring 50 essays by past and present band members, neverTROY Magazine · 12

before-seen-pictures (more than 400 images) and new interviews with band directors Dr. Carl Vollrath, Dr. Johnny Long, Ralph Ford and Dr. Mark Walker.

Events get under way at 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13, with a mixer at the Courtyard by Marriott until midnight.

TUBA board members, University administrators and TROY band directors and spouses will have a breakfast at 8 a.m.

Saturday hosted by the Office of Development and Alumni Affairs while registration opens up until 8:30 a.m. in Long Hall. At 9 a.m., the Alumni Band will rehearse, followed by the association’s annual business meeting. At 9:30 a.m., the Alumni Band will rehearse on the band’s practice field.

An 11 a.m. cookout for members is tentatively planned for Tailgate Terrace, which will include a book signing with Dr. Vollrath, Dr. Long, Robert W. Smith, Ralph Ford and Dr. Mark Walker. At noon, the Alumni Band will combine with the Sound of the South for a pep rally and Trojan Walk.

Halftime will feature a show designed by Dr. Long “as if it was 1965 all over again,” Bird said.

Drum Major Mike Jordan, who was at TROY when Dr. Long first arrived, will lead with “Fanfare,” “Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines,” “I Can’t Stop Loving You,” “Shangri-La” and “Rockin’ Chair.” The original 13 band members will be honored with honorary life memberships in the association, and game balls will be presented to all five TROY band directors.

Following the game, TUBA board members will award two scholarships to deserving SOTS members after the post-game concert by the current band.

13 · TROY Magazine

2015 Odyssey Convocation

Members of a record-breaking freshman class took part in this year’s Odyssey Convocation for new students, which included remarks from Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor; Dr. Earl Ingram, Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs; Heath Barton, SGA President; Todd Watson, Director of Football Operations and High School Relations; and a keynote address from alumnus Patrick Claybon. Dr. Hal Fulmer, Associate Provost and Dean of Undergraduate and First Year Studies, served as emcee for the event.

Troy University alumnus and NFL Network News Update Anchor Patrick Claybon delivered the keynote address during the Odyssey Convocation for New Students at Trojan Arena on the Troy Campus. “You begin the journey to find yourself at Troy University,” said Claybon.

TROY Magazine · 14

‘Grand vision’ becomes reality

By Andy Ellis “A grand vision” became reality on July 10 when University and Phenix City officials formally dedicated the Phenix City Riverfront Campus on the banks of the Chattahoochee River.

The 48,000-square-foot, fourstory, $11.5 million building houses the Phenix City Campus’ business, nursing and social work programs

and will include three centers for excellence—the Center for Water Resource Economics, the Center for Risk Management Insurance and the Small Business Accelerator. The building also serves as the center of the Phenix City Campus’ community outreach program and is available for community-hosted events.

“What we will see is the rebirth of Phenix City. What this building represents is renaissance,” said Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor.

“We are excited about what this new facility means for this community and for Troy University,” he said. “This building will serve as the core of what will ultimately be a larger facility that will house all of our programs in Phenix City.

As Thoreau said, ‘It’s not what you are looking at, but what you see.’ This is the realization of a grand vision that began more than a decade ago, and it is only through strong partnerships and community support that we stand here today.”

The campus serves as an anchor point for the revitalization of downtown Phenix City that has brought a new hotel, a new parking garage and the revival Troy University and Phenix City officials formally dedicated the University’s of existing retail and new Riverfront Campus in downtown Phenix City on Friday, July 10. mixed-use commercial continued on pg 17

15 · TROY Magazine

River-side view of TROY’s Phenix City Riverfront Campus

Phenix City man brushes life into Riverfront Campus New York City avant-garde artist Mike Howard, whose Fluxus artwork adorns the Phenix City Riverfront Campus, is really a homegrown commodity.

Howard, a native of Phenix City, splits his time between the Big Apple and home. A former Marine, he attended the University of Georgia and received a bachelor’s degree in art education from Columbus State.

He completed a Master of Fine Arts at Rutgers and taught there for nearly a decade.

In addition to the new building, Howard’s artwork has been on display in Artwork Magazine in New York City and in the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego-La Jolla. His paintings also hang in Miami’s famed Rubell Family Collection, at the Don Judd Foundation in Texas, at Synovous in Columbus and the Mead Corp. offices in Phenix City—as well as in collections throughout the United States and Switzerland.

Howard’s artwork, which often requires the participation of the viewer to fully be completed, features themes varying from political and social progress to Southern life. life. In 2008, he created a series telling “The Phenix City Story,” and the assassination of Albert Patterson.

Artist Mike Howard donated large canvas works to the University for its Riverfront Campus in Phenix City.

TROY Magazine · 16

properties and some 40,000 square feet of new retail and mixed-use space in four new buildings all nestled about the 14th Street Bridge.

A new streetscape for 3 rd Avenue is under way, and new restaurants are locating in the immediate area.

Whitewater Express, a business that offers whitewater rafting and zip lining on the river, is drawing higher-than-expected crowds.

Chris Blackshear, Mayor ProTem of Phenix City, called the dedication of the building “an exciting day” in the life of Troy University and the city.

of the Chattahoochee River is a reality, and we are tremendously excited about the transformations that have taken place as well as those to come in the future.”

While Gerald Dial, President Pro-Tem of the Troy University Board of Trustees, said the July celebration was a great day for the University, the city of Phenix City and the surrounding area, he acknowledged his first priority— learning.

“This is a beautiful building and a beautiful location, but I am most excited about what will happen inside these walls,” Dial said. “The

“Idea s c om ea nd g o, b ut visions c om e w ith a b elieftha t w ith ha rd w ork a nd strong p a rtnership s they c a n b ec om erea lity,”

Blackshear said. “Over the last 20 years, it has been a vision of this community to transform this riverfront. Today, the vision of Troy University located on the banks

people of this region will have access to higher education inside these walls, and an educated citizenry leads to prosperous and committed communities.”

The road to opening new doors on the riverbank began more than a decade ago when Phenix City officials first approached the University’s leadership about the concept.

“Think about how much has changed over the last 11 years.

Progress doesn’t happen without hard work. This campus happened because of great partners,” said Dr. Dave White, Vice Chancellor of the Phenix City Campus, who served as emcee for the event.

To close the ceremony, officials dedicated the Daniel Foundation Plaza on the river side of the building, which includes a Trojan Warrior statue designed by TROY alumnus Larry Strickland and cast

by Dr. Huo Baozhu.

Bear Brothers Construction served as the contractor for the building, which was designed

by McKee and Associates architectural firm. The University will plan to expand the current building in the coming years to bring all of Phenix City Campus’ programs to the riverfront.

Formal ceremonies at Troy University’s Phenix City Riverfront Campus on Friday, July 10, included the dedication of the Daniel Foundation Plaza overlooking the Chattahoochee River. Participating were (from left) Army Maj. Anthony Randall, brigade chaplain of the U.S. Army Airborne and Ranger Training Brigade at Fort Benning, TROY Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., TROY First Lady Janice Hawkins, Lyndra Daniels, Bill Daniels, Ann Boothe and State Rep. Alan Boothe. The Daniel Foundation of Alabama, based in Birmingham, supports education, health, humanitarian and cultural activities throughout the state.

17 · TROY Magazine

Celebrating the dedication of the Riverfront Campus on July 10 were (from left) Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., trustee’s President Pro-Tem Sen. Gerald Dial, John Harrison, Karen Carter, Roy Drinkard, Charles Nailen, Gibson Vance, Dr. Doug Hawkins and Allen Owen.

Phenix City Mayor Pro-Tem Chris Blackshear (left), Troy University Board of Trustees President Pro-Tem Sen. Gerald Dial and Phenix City Campus Vice Chancellor Dr. Dave White unveil a photo of Hou Baozhu, a Chinese artist who has donated a sculpture of a phoenix that will be showcased at the University’s new Riverfront Campus.

TROY Magazine · 18

Alumni Association Chapter News

The Pensacola Chapter held its seventh annual Trojan Tribute Golf Tournament at Marcus Pointe Golf Club on May 15. The tournament is the chapter’s primary fundraising event, enabling it to fund more than $15,000 in annual scholarships in addition to building an endowed $20,000 scholarship known as the Pensacola Chapter/Lon Wise Memorial Scholarship. The scholarships are awarded in late July at the chapter’s scholarship dinner. Gold Sponsor for this year’s tournament and the $10,000 hole-in-one prize was Vince Whibbs Automotive. Silver Sponsor Vannoy Tires and Prize Sponsor Pete Moore Automotive Group led a group of other local businesses and individuals in sponsoring the event, organized by recent alumna Caitlin Drinkard with help from volunteer alumni, Pensacola site director Rick Puckett and former National Championship Trojan Golfer, Senior Tour player and Marcus Pointe pro Ben Bates. Former Member of Congress Earl Hutto took the top prize. Pictured are (left to right) Chapter President Steve Timberlake (’81), Hal Major (’79), Michael Myers (’07) and U.S. Rep. Clay Ingram (FL-1), executive director of the Pensacola Chamber of Commerce.

Members of the Henry County Alumni Chapter heard from Troy University coaches at the chapter’s general meeting.

(Left to right) Trojan Defensive Coordinator Vic Koenning, chapter Secretary Tom Solomon, Trojans Head Men’s Basketball Coach Phil Cunningham and chapter President Joe Bryan.

19 · TROY Magazine

The Vietnam Alumni Chapter visited Song Lieu Elementary School and awarded 21 study support gifts of textbooks, notebooks and stationery to needy school children. The chapter also presented two special scholarships to students and established a scholarship based on top academic performance at the elementary school. The event was organized

by TROY alumna Thai Minh Thuan and supported by faculty members Dr. Patricia Matuszek and Joann Rouse.

Attending the chartering party of the New York Chapter are (front left to right) Alumni Affairs Director Faith West Ward, Heather Hartwell, First Lady Janice Hawkins, Kara McDowell, Casey LaVres, Adrienne Hicks, Mack Westmoreland, Patrick Hall, Megan Murphy, Senior Vice Chancellor Walter Givhan, Tracie Dugas, Dr. Jeffrey Dugas (back) Former Athletic Director John Hartwell, Psacoya Guinn, Brett Warnke, Alex Piper, Unknown, Micah Grimes, Sean Hopkins and Bill Duffill.

In the last issue, the New York Alumni Chapter was included under a “new chapters” heading. The New York City Chapter was originally chartered June 2, 1996, largely due to the efforts of alumna Virginia Bush. The chapter was revitalized earlier this year with a meeting and the election of new officers.

TROY Magazine · 20

21ATHLETICS

FOOTBALL SEASON TICKETS For the first time in nearly a quarter of a century, a new man will roam the sidelines in charge of the TROY football team. Neal Brown may be entering his first season as a head coach, but the second youngest coach in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) knows TROY well. The 35 year old was an assistant coach for four seasons under Larry Blakeney, winning a Sun Belt title in each of those four seasons.

If you want to see Brown and the Trojans #RebuildTheWall, now is the best time to buy your season tickets. Packages start at just $50 for TROY’s five home games in Veterans Memorial Stadium. Fans can purchase season tickets throughout the stadium, including the Stadium Club, reserved and general admission sections.

In addition, TROY Athletics has announced two new season ticket packages: the Weekender—sponsored by Santa Fe Cattle Company— and the Young Alumni Section—sponsored by Guardian Credit Union.

The Weekender package is perfect for those who want to enjoy more than just the football game. Included with the $150 total ticket price are the following benefits: • Five $10 vouchers for use at Sweet Rack Rib Shack—one voucher for each game week (may be redeemed anytime between Friday through the following Thursday of game week) • Access to The Weekender pregame tailgate party featuring complimentary food and a cash bar • A season ticket within The Weekender section—Section 105 behind the visitors’ bench • Five $10 vouchers for use at Santa Fe Cattle Company—one voucher for each game week (may be redeemed anytime between Saturday Game Day through the following Friday The Young Alumni section will provide all TROY graduates from 2010 to present day with a way to relive their student years. For $50 per person, a Young Alumni membership includes: • A season ticket in Section 114—behind the TROY bench and facing the student section • A Young Alumni membership to the TROY Alumni Association—Enjoy all the benefits of Alumni Association membership, including access to their pregame tailgate party held before each game at the Alumni House on Highland Avenue “Throughout the 2014 season, we surveyed our fans in regards to their experiences at TROY football games, and one constant among the feedback was the request for more fellowship opportunities,” Senior Associate Athletic Director Steve Stroud said. “Our fans want to have easy access to pre-planned tailgate experiences, and we are happy to offer two separate options, both at affordable rates.”

To purchase your season tickets, contact the TROY ticket office at 877-878-WINS (9467) or visit TroyTrojans.com/tickets.

21 · TROY Magazine

Athletic Director John Hartwell leaves legacy of success John Hartwell, who served as Troy University Director of Athletics

while the men’s golf team received an at-large berth to the NCAA

for almost three years, left the University in mid-July to take the Vice

Regional, and Tolver Dozier competed at the NCAA Men’s Golf

President and Director of Athletics position at Utah State University.

Championship. The Trojan baseball team defeated Alabama twice

“In his tour of duty at TROY, John has provided great service to

en route to an appearance in the 2013 NCAA Tallahassee Regional

our athletic program, and this move is a positive reflection on what

Final while the women’s basketball team won 20 games this past

he has accomplished here,” Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. said.

year for the first time since 1996-97 and made its second postseason

“John has set the stage for our program to reach the next level, and

appearance in school history.

we wish him and his family well.”

With major facility enhancements, several prominent head coaching hires and an upward trend in academics, Hartwell’s time at TROY was one of progress.

Hartwell oversaw a rejuvenation of the TROY coaching ranks with the additions of Neal Brown (football), Phil Cunningham (men’s basketball), Mark Smartt (baseball), Beth Mullins (softball), Jason Hamilton (soccer), Scott Kidd (men’s

“TROY will always hold a special

tennis), Bart Barnes (women’s golf),

place in my family’s heart,” Hartwell

Marc Davis (track & field) and Rawia

said. “I can’t say thank you enough

Elsisi (women’s tennis) as head coaches.

to Dr. and Mrs. Hawkins, the Troy

Three of Hartwell’s new hires—Mullins,

University staff, the TROY community,

Kidd and Barnes—have been named

the fans and most importantly the TROY

Sun Belt Coach of the Year in their

student-athletes for their hard work and

respective sports, including back-to-

support during my tenure at TROY.”

back awards by Barnes.

During 2014-15, five TROY programs competed in postseason play highlighted by a pair of Sun Belt Conference championships by the women’s golf and men’s tennis teams.

The women’s golf program made backto-back NCAA Regional appearances

Former Trojan Clint Robinson takes the mound Trojan baseball standout Clint Robinson “pinched pitched” on May 12 as his Washington Nationals took a 14-6 loss against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

It was the first time since 1990 the club had pitched a fielder.

Trailing 14-4 in the bottom of the eighth inning, Nationals Manager Matt Williams brought left fielder Robinson, now a veteran of the Minor League who made the Nationals opening day roster this year, to the plate. Mixing an 81-mph fastball and a 72-mph slider, Robinson pitched a scoreless inning, giving up only one hit and striking out the D-Back’s second baseman Aaron Hill.

Robinson, a left-handed batter, was a .331 career hitter with 37 home runs and 178 RBIs in his time at TROY. He is second in TROY history in career hits (253) and runs scored (168); he was named an AllAmerican in 2007. The Dothan native spent eight seasons in the minors, getting his first MLB action in 2012 with the Kansas City Royals. He has also played for Pittsburg, Toronto and the L.A. Dodgers before signing up with the Nationals.

TROY Magazine · 22

EIGHT INDUCTED IN SPORTS HALL OF FAME

Seven former Troy University student-athletes and one administrator were enshrined in the Troy University Sports Hall of Fame in April.

The fourth class inducted into the Hall of Fame consists of Virgil Seay (football), James Batie (track & field), Ward Thigpen (baseball), Kathy Russell (women’s basketball), Freddie Thomas (football), Ronnie Mobley (men’s golf), Robert Earl Stewart (administration) and Ronnie Shelley (football).

Ja m es B a tie– Tra c k & Field

R onnieM ob ley – M en’s G olf

A five-time NCAA and NAIA All-American from 1970 to 1973, James Batie set TROY records the moment he stepped foot on campus. Rated as the sixth-fastest runner in the nation by Runner’s World, Batie held school records in the 50-, 60-, 100- and 200-yard dashes, in addition to being a member of three different school-record relay teams. A member of the U.S. Olympic Training Team, Batie finished just one-tenth of a second off the world record in the 50-yard dash in high school. The native of Columbus, Georgia, would improve his 50-yard time during his freshman campaign as he tied the world record with a time of 5.1 seconds. Batie helped lead TROY to the Alabama Collegiate Conference and NAIA District 27 championships. As a freshman, Batie finished second in the 100-yard dash at the NAIA National Meet and finished second in the 60-yard dash at the NAIA Indoor National Meet. He would go on to claim several other top-five national finishes in the 60- and 100-yard dashes over the course of his illustrious career.

The first student athlete to receive a golf scholarship at TROY, Ronnie Mobley did not disappoint as he went on to become a four-time NCAA Division II All-American and helped lead the Trojans to back-to-back NCAA Division II National Championships in 1976 and 1977. Mobley, a native of Brundidge, Alabama, won a remarkable 18 tournaments during his TROY career before going on to play on the PGA Tour for two years. The 1977 Alabama State Amateur Champion, Mobley won seven tournaments as a freshman during the 197374 season and was inducted into the Wiregrass Sports Hall of Fame in 2007. The first All-Gulf South selection in TROY history, Mobley coached the TROY men’s team for two seasons (1985-86) and earned Gulf South Coach of the Year honors both years. A three-time All-Gulf South selection, Mobley held five TROY school records when he took over as head coach, including single-season stroke average (71.5).

23 · TROY Magazine

Induction ceremonies for the 2015 class of the Troy University Sports Hall of Fame were held in the state-of-the-art Trojan Arena.

K a thy R ussell – W om en’s B a sk etb a ll The all-time leading rebounder in TROY history, Kathy Russell earned All-America honors and helped lead the Trojans to the 1981 AIAW State Championship. A native of Chicago, Illinois, Russell finished her career with 1,325 rebounds, which was one more than teammate and TROY Sports Hall of Fame member Denise Monroe. Russell’s tally has stood the test of time with the closest any other player has come to breaking the record being Angela Moore’s 1,000 rebounds. Russell, who was a two-time All-AIAW Conference selection, ranks seventh all-time in TROY history with 1,521 career points and has made the ninth most free throws in TROY history. She set the TROY singleseason rebounding record with 394 in the 197980 season; in fact all four of her single-season rebounding totals rank among the top 10 in school history. Russell went on to play semi-pro ball in the BASBA from 1987-93 before beginning a successful coaching career.

Virg il Sea y – Footb a ll One of the most dynamic players in TROY history, Virgil Seay parleyed an outstanding collegiate career into a pair of Super Bowl appearances with the Washington Redskins. Seay holds the TROY

career record as he averaged 16.66 yards per punt return over his two-year career. The native of Moultrie, Georgia, returned 47 punts for 783 yards and five touchdowns for the Trojans. His five touchdowns were the second most in TROY history, behind only Leodis McKelvin’s seven punt-return touchdowns. Seay ranks fourth all-time in puntreturn yards despite ranking eighth in punt-return attempts. He finished second nationally in 1979 when he averaged 18.28 yards per punt return, a mark that still ranks as the third highest in TROY history. Seay returned three punts for a touchdown that season, which is tied with McKelvin and TROY Sports Hall of Fame member Perry Griggs for the school record. A talented receiver for the Trojans, Seay is ninth all-time with his 19.74 yards-percatch average. He finished his NFL career with 43 receptions for 792 yards and five touchdowns. Seay founded and manages the Virgil Seay Sports and Activities Summer Camp.

R onnieShelley – Footb a ll One of the most feared defensive backs of his time, Ronnie Shelley still holds TROY single-season and career records for interceptions. A key piece of TROY’s 1968 NAIA National Championship team, Shelley earned All-America honors after TROY Magazine · 24

intercepting 15 passes during the 1968 season, including a single-game record of three against North Alabama. He broke his own school record that season as he established a new single-season mark with eight interceptions the prior year. Shelley finished his career with 36 interceptions, which is almost double that of the next closest player’s tally (Derrick Ansley’s 19). The Headland, Alabama, native returned 29 interceptions for a school record of 492 yards and was inducted into the Wiregrass Hall of Fame in 2003. Shelley went on to be a successful coach on the collegiate and high school levels. He led Southeastern Louisiana to an NCAA Baseball Regional, Ashford Academy to several basketball and baseball state titles and Houston Academy to a pair of softball state championships.

R ob ert Ea rl Stew a rt – A dm inistra tion No time period of TROY Athletics has seen more championships than during Robert Earl Stewart’s leadership. While serving as TROY’s athletic director from 1974-91, the Trojans won 10 NCAA Division II National Championships, 66 conference championships and eight All-Sports Trophies.

During his 17-year career, the men’s and women’s golf teams each won three national titles while the football and baseball teams each won two national titles. Stewart was responsible for the hiring of Troy University Sports Hall of Fame coaches Larry Blakeney, Don Maestri, Chase Riddle, Chan Gailey and Rick Rhoades. His impact was not only felt in the athletics department, but also in the academic realm as he came to TROY from Ole Miss to start the finance major in TROY’s Sorrell College of Business. The TROY women’s programs came under the banner of TROY Athletics in 1975 and grew into perennial contenders under Stewart’s guidance.

Stewart also founded TIPTAY (TROY, I Pay Thirty a Year) and the TSU Action Club, which was the booster wing of TIPTAY.

with 11 career interceptions, while checking in at 18 th in total tackles and 20 th in assisted tackles. A College Football Hall of Fame nominee, Thomas has dedicated over 25 years of his life to coaching youth sports and serving on various boards for youth sports organizations.

W a rd Thig p en – B a seb a ll Ward Thigpen turned in one of the best seasons in TROY baseball history as he posted an 11-1 record with a 2.12 ERA en route to Gulf South Pitcher of the Year and First Team All-America honors. Thigpen, a native of Greenville, Alabama, helped lead the Trojans to within one game of a trip to the NCAA Division II World Series in what turned out to be Troy University Sports Hall of Fame member Chase Riddle’s final season as head coach. Thigpen struck out 107 batters during the 1990 season, including a school record seven consecutive strikeouts against Montevallo. He also set single-game records with 17 strikeouts in a game and by retiring 19 consecutive batters. A member of the TROY Baseball Hall of Fame, Thigpen and the Trojans went 49-10 during the 1990 season and won a Gulf South Conference championship during his first season with the team in 1989. He currently stands sixth all-time in TROY history with three shutouts, while his .917 winning percentage in 1990 ranks fifth in a single-season.

FreddieThom a s – Footb a ll From walk-on to two-time All-American, Freddie Thomas is a true success story in the history of TROY Athletics. Simply known as “Bootsy”, Thomas earned Kodak All-America honors his junior season after recording 85 tackles, five interceptions, eight pass break ups and a blocked punt. He parleyed his outstanding junior season into an even better senior campaign where he was named captain of the 1987 NCAA Division II National Championship squad.

Thomas was a Consensus All-American that season as he finished with 85 tackles and an interception from his safety position. The Montgomery, Alabama, native currently ranks 12 th all-time in TROY history 25 · TROY Magazine

Kathy Russell receives her Troy University Hall of Fame award from Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr.

Head Softball Coach Beth Mullins

Women’s Golf Coach Bart Barnes

Tennis Coach Scott Kidd

SUN BELT COACH OF THE YEAR AWARDS

by Matt Mays

2015 has been a banner year for TROY Athletics with numerous Sun Belt championships, multiple NCAA postseason appearances and record academic numbers. For all of the success TROY’s student athletes are having, some incredible coaches have led them there. In fact, three of TROY’s coaches were recently honored with the Sun Belt Coach of the Year award.

Bart Barnes and his TROY women’s golf team are no strangers to the top of the Sun Belt Conference.

The Trojans won their second straight Sun Belt title in 2015, and in turn, garnered Barnes his second straight Sun Belt Coach of the Year honor.

The second-year head coach is now a perfect 2-for-2 on the award front and is there thanks to a Trojan team that posted the three lowest 54-hole scores in school history during the 2014-15 season in addition to posting the two lowest 36-hole scores and the lowest round in school history.

Just four days after the women’s golf team won its title, the men’s tennis team made it to two championships in one week as the Trojans beat rival South Alabama in the Sun Belt title match. The Trojans set a school record with 25 wins in 2015 and made the second NCAA Tournament appearance in program history.

Those accomplishments led to Scott Kidd, also in his second year, being named the Sun Belt Coach of the Year. TROY’s 17-win improvement from 2014 was the best turn around in the nation, and along the way, five different players earned All-Sun Belt honors.

The two second-year men weren’t alone in hauling in awards, however, as Beth Mullins also got in on the action. The first-year TROY softball coach led the Trojans to a fourth-place finish in the Sun Belt and was named the league’s Co-Coach of the Year.

Mullins led the Trojans to 32 wins—the most earned within the team’s past five seasons— including three victories over top-25 opponents.

She also helped her team launch a school-record of 51 home runs and also saw Jaycee Affeldt be named the Sun Belt’s Pitcher of the Year.

The success of TROY’s teams this spring is surely a sign of things to come. Fall sports are right around the corner, and closing 2015 the same way it began could certainly bring more accolades for the Trojan coaches and studentathletes.

TROY Magazine · 26

27ALUM NOTES ’50 Conrad B. Henderson (1957), legendary football coach and former principal at Stanhope Elmore High School in Millbrook, recently spoke to the high school’s graduating class.

Henderson was the school’s first football coach, and his name appears on the school’s stadium, Foshee/Henderson Stadium. During his time at TROY, Henderson lettered in baseball for three years. At 86, he is still active in the Millbrook and Coosada communities.

’80 Dr. F. Erik Brooks (1989, 1992) has recently published the book “Tigers in the Tempest: Savannah State University and the Struggle for Civil Rights,” through Mercer University Press. Dr. Brooks currently serves as a professor and chair of the department of African American studies at Western Illinois University. From 2002 to 2012, Dr. Brooks taught at Georgia Southern University and previously published the book “Pursuing a Promise: A History of African Americans at Georgia Southern University,” also through Mercer University Press.

Paz B. Gomez (1989) has been named the deputy chief operating officer of infrastructure and public works for the city of San Diego. Gomez will oversee engineering services, including technical and operational support, design and construction for the city’s capital improvements program and will also manage the development of public infrastructure and facilities. She has more than 30 years of experience in various leadership positions in public works, infrastructure, engineering, construction and contracting in both the public and private sectors. She most recently served as vice president of building engineering of AECOM’s Southern California and Southern Nevada Area.

27 · TROY Magazine

’90 Maj. Gen. Mark Brown (1992) serves as commander of the Second Air Force at Keesler Air Force Base. He is responsible for the development, oversight and direction of all operational aspects of basic military training, initial skills training and advanced technical training for the Air Force enlisted force and support officers. He holds a Master of Public Administration from TROY.

David Owen (1993) is the new high school administrator at Springwood School in Lanett. He retired in June after 29 years in public education in Alabama, having served as a teacher, coach, administrative assistant and assistant principal.

Tangela Durham (1993) has been named assistant principal of Griffin Elementary School in Lakeland, Florida. Durham was the acting assistant principal at the school and has been an educator for 22 years.

Lt. Col. Lyle “Chip” Finley (1993) has assumed command of the Warrior Transition Unit at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, and will oversee the care and transition of nearly 200 injured, ill or wounded soldiers receiving care at Blanchfield Army Community Hospital’s Warrior Care Clinic and supporting medical services. Commissioned in the Navy in 1986, Finley became a Naval intelligence officer and has served in multiple roles, including deployments to Afghanistan and Kosovo.

Col. William P. Davis (1994), United States Marine Corps retired, has been named national executive director and CEO of the Young Marines, a national youth organization designed to promote the mental, moral and physical development of young people, ages 8 through the completion of high school.

Trojan sworn in as municipal judge

Joseph Fitzpatrick (’94), a former Trojan football player, was sworn in as municipal judge in Union Springs, Alabama, in June.

A practicing lawyer for 16 years, Fitzpatrick said the municipal court system’s first term is set to begin in October, and he will hear court cases one day each month in the county commission chambers of the Bullock County Courthouse.

“The reestablishment of a municipal court for the city of Union Springs is truly a momentous occasion. I am deeply honored and grateful to be a part of this historic event,” he said. “It is my firm belief that the city of Union Springs Municipal Court is to be a court of the people, for the people and by the people of this great city.”

From 2011 to present, Davis has been the commandant of the New Orleans Military and Maritime Academy in New Orleans.

Lisa B. Coleman (1994, 2004) has been named the Georgia/Alabama District assistant superintendent for Fort Benning, Fort Rucker and Maxwell Air Force Base schools. An educator for 29 years, Coleman comes to the Department of Defense Education Activity Domestic Dependent Elementary and Secondary Schools from the Phenix City school system where she served as the district director of curriculum, instruction and federal programs since 2009.

Becky Birdsong (1996, 2011), superintendent of Geneva County Schools, was recently named Superintendent of the Year in District III by the School Superintendents of Alabama. With more than 20 years of experience in education, Birdsong has served as Geneva superintendent since 2012 and resides in Hartford with her husband, William, and their three children—Shelby, Bailey and Will.

Jennifer Coleman (1996) received the Outstanding CPA in Government Impact Award winner at the Federal

Level by the American Institute of CPAs, the world’s largest member association representing the accounting profession.

In addition to being a Certified Public Accountant, Coleman is a Certified Government Financial Management and a Chartered Global Management Accountant. Her government accounting career began in 1982, and she has worked for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Department of Energy, the Internal Revenue Service and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Rosemary Ragle (1996), primary trainer for the University of Connecticut’s women’s basketball team since 1999, was inducted into the New England Basketball Hall of Fame in Worcester, Massachusetts. Ragle is entering her 18th season as an assistant athletic trainer at UConn. During her work with the women’s basketball program, the team has won eight national championships.

Rebekah Herman (1999) is senior vice president and regional underwriting manager for PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. Herman started in the banking industry in 1999 and has been with PNC since 2010. In her current position, she oversees a team of underwriters who work with such issues as portfolio management and risk assessment for corporate clients.

’00

Aretha McDonald (2000, 2002) has been named principal

of Meadowlane Elementary School in Phenix City. McDonald previously served as assistant principal at Central Freshman Academy and has worked in the Phenix City Public Schools for 23 years.

Troy University alumna Minnette Rogers Wiggins (’82) was selected as Alabama’s Elementary Teacher of the Year 2015 and the state’s overall Teacher of the Year Alternate. A first-grade teacher at Trace Crossings Elementary School in Hoover, Wiggins is a National Board Certified teacher with 33 years of teaching experience. She joined the Hoover school system in 2001, spending 12 years at Rocky Ridge Elementary before transferring to Trace Crossings two years ago. She was selected from more than 130 nominees statewide.

Steven M. Davenport (2001) has been promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel in the Alabama National Guard.

He currently serves as the operations officer for the 31st Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear Brigade. He has served one tour of duty in Afghanistan with numerous awards to his credit, including the Bronze Star.

Dixie Cook (2001), senior employment manager for Mercy Care Rome, was recently recognized for 25 years of service at the St. Joseph’s Health System Employee Recognition Celebration in Atlanta. She was presented with a service pin and a Mercy Cross accented with a diamond.

Cook has been recognized numerous

times by the Georgia Division of Aging Services, including the agency’s Project Director of the Year. She resides in Cedartown, Georgia, with her husband, Tom.

J. Brent Harrison (2001) is the new principal at Charles Henderson High School in Troy. He came to CHHS from Enterprise High School where he served as one of five assistant principals. The former member of the TROY football team began his teaching career in Georgia in 2004 before moving to Enterprise in 2005 where he taught for six years before transitioning into an administrative role.

Sgt. Daniel King (2001) has been named as the new deputy warden for administration/care and treatment in Columbus, Georgia. An 18-year veteran of the Muscogee County Prison, King has served as a correctional officer, correctional counselor, correctional sergeant, shift supervisor, outside detail supervisor, firearms instruction and prison rape elimination act coordinator.

Capt. Joe Snowden (2002) recently took command of Coast Guard Sector Mobile. Sector Mobile includes responsibility for operations along the Gulf coastline and the adjacent offshore waters of the Gulf of Mexico as well as inland waterways systems. Snowden previously served as deputy commander of Sector Mobile.

Sammy Taylor (2002) was recently promoted to the rank of captain with the Lakeland (Florida) Police Department. Taylor began his career with the LPD in 1989 and has served as a lieutenant in the Uniform Patrol Division and Communications, as well as in his current position in the Criminal Investigations Division. He holds a Master of Public Administration from TROY.

Christina Hall (2002) senior product development manager for Total System Services, a U.S. credit card processor, merchant acquirer and bank credit card issuing company headquartered in Columbus, Georgia.

She is tasked with defining the company’s commercial payments strategy and working to deliver payment solutions for issuers who support the small business corporate and government sectors. Hall has more than 10 years of experience serving financial institutions and non-profit organizations.

TROY Magazine · 28

Veronica Crock (2006) has been appointed as executive director of the Ozark-Dale County Economic Development Corp. Crock previously served as the dean of planning, information services and institutional effectiveness at Enterprise State Community College and the Alabama Aviation Center of Excellence.

Capt. David A. Bacon (2006) is leading the men and women of Arab, Alabama’s National Guard Unit during a year-long deployment. The unit will be the communications link between different military bases and troops in the Middle East.

Laura Stair (2006, 2007) has been promoted to manager in the accounting firm of Draffin & Tucker LLP’s healthcare practice. She primarily focuses on audit, Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement, reports of authority finances, TRICARE reports and employee benefit plan audits for healthcare facilities.

Hans Lehman (2008) was recently promoted to the rank of captain with the Lakeland (Florida) Police Department. He joined the department in 1996 and currently supervises the Community Service Section consisting of the Community Service Unit, Police Athletic League and School Resources Officers.

Magi Ingram (2008) has been named vice president of client services for ShawHankins, a Marietta, Georgia-based full service benefits brokerage and consulting firm. Ingram has more than 15 years of experience in the employee benefits industry and is a member of the Society of Human Resources Management and the International Society of Certified Employee Benefit Specialists.

Chad Kendrick (2009) has been named principal of Rock Mills Junior High School in Roanoke. He had previously served as assistant principal at Wadley High School.

Dontavious Little (2010) was

recently named as the new director of the Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind’s Talladega Regional Center. Little worked in AIDB’s E.H. Gentry Technical Facility in the biodiesel program in 2010 before taking a position teaching business education at the Alabama School for the Blind in 2011. He also served as director of outreach for the We Care Community Development Center.

29 · TROY Magazine

Alumnus takes command of Army basic training base TROY alumnus Brig. Gen. Roger L. Cloutier, Jr. (’97) assumed command of Fort Jackson and the U.S. Army Training Center, the Army’s largest basic combat training site, on May 29.

Prior to arriving at Fort Jackson, Brig. Gen. Cloutier served as the director, force management. The Force Management directorate provides prudent adjustments to the existing force while balancing force structure requirements (manpower and equipment) within available and planned resources (people, equipment, time and resources).

Brig. Gen. Cloutier earned his Master of Science in International Relations from TROY in 1997.

Throughout his career, Brig. Gen. Cloutier has served in leadership positions and commanded from Brig. Gen. Roger L. Cloutier, Jr. (’97) company through brigade.

He commanded 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, at Fort Stewart, Georgia, while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn, Iraq, and 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry, 3rd Infantry Division, at Fort Stewart while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Iraq. His staff assignments have included serving as executive officer to the Supreme Allied Commander Europe, in Belgium, deputy commanding general of 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Stewart and chief of staff of 3rd Infantry Division.

Ray Eschmann (2012) has joined Afterhours Care of Americus, Georgia, as a nurse practitioner. He and his wife, Anna, resided in Leesburg, Georgia, and have two sons.

Staff Sgt. Shanae Sparks (2012), a native of Midway, recently returned home from a one-year deployment in Afghanistan with the 401st Army Field Sustainment Unit/4th Sustainment Brigade. Sparks has served in Iraq and Afghanistan and has been a member of the Army Reserve for 13 years.

Kyle Wilborn (2013) has joined the

Sun Belt Conference Championships staff and will assist in the daily duties of the championships staff such as handling of game management, meeting agendas, scripts and procuring officials for championship events.

Wilborn was a four-year starter on the offensive line at TROY and was selected to the Sun Belt All-Conference First Team in 2012.

Sunnie Cotton (2014) serves as community outreach manager at Sarrell

Dental Center in Anniston. After joining the dental office in January, Cotton presented an idea she called “Sarrell Serves” to the company’s marketing personnel. The idea of the program was to go beyond Sarrell’s outreach efforts such as providing informational packets and free toothbrushes and toothpaste and embracing projects that make a difference in the community. One such project has seen a team of 14 Sarrell employees paint and do remodeling work at a local elementary school.

James Edmonds (2014) was recently named the head coach of the Dale County High School varsity boys’ basketball team. He also teaches history at Dale County.

De’Shyla Steele (2014) serves as the juvenile officer in Greene County.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in human services with a minor in psychology.

Jason Hadden (2014) has been named as the new principal of New Brockton Elementary School. He previously served as assistant principal

at Rucker Boulevard Elementary School, interim assistant principal at Coppinville Elementary School and assistant principal and first-grade teacher at Zion Chapel School.

Chase Merritt (2015) was recently named as head coach of the junior varsity boys’ basketball team at Dale County High School. He will also serve as ISS teacher at Dale County.

WEDDINGS AND ENGAGEMENTS - Troy University Alumni Lindsay Nichole Barnes (2009) to Brandon Edward Lilley Lara Grade Teel to Brandon Michael Lee (2013) Cameron Elizabeth Johnson to Sean Christopher Weiler (2006, 2008) Pamela Lacey Bassett (2007) to Adam David Helms (2008) Laura Catherine Rutland (2010) to Joshua Petty Cobb Lara Kay Edgar (2004, 2005) to Robert Brandon Fincher Courtney LeGrace McLendon to Herbert Jason Holloway (2010) Megan Faith Hammond (2011) to Drew Steven Marchman Haley Lynn O’Hearn (2010) to Donald Lyn Edenfield (1993) MaryBeth Arrington (2013) to Taylor Brent Shiver (2014)

IN REMEMBRANCE - Troy University Alumni 1953 – Levy L. Foley

1993 – Jane Putnam Barr

1959 – Bobby Ross Phillips

1993 – Lorenza Patrick

1962 – Sherrill A. Fowler

1999, 2004 – Julie L. Hilburn

1973 – Quintus J. Fuller

2000 – Belverlyn Hill

1982 – Dianne B. Enslen

2005 – Donald D. Graham

1988 – John R. Graves Brayden Erik Groat, son of Jennifer Steinhilb and Erik Groat (’14), was born Dec. 8, 2014. Erik was formerly membership coordinator for Alumni Affairs. The family now resides in New Jersey.

IN REMEMBRANCE - Troy University Friends Travis “Bud” Casey

Dr. Milton McPherson

Dr. Doug Hawkins

Dr. John Hendrik Muller

Mary Frances Lovely Jones

Dr. James Rinehart

Terry McDuffie

Dr. Cozetta Shannon

Trojan to lead 'Marne Division'’ TROY alumnus Brig. Gen. James E. Rainey (‘98) has been tapped to take command of the 3rd Infantry Division by Army Chief of Staff Gen. Ray Odierno.

Brig. Gen. Rainey has been serving as the Commandant of the U.S. Army Infantry School at Fort Benning, Georgia, since 2014.

Rainey earned his master’s degrees in advanced military arts and science and public administration from Troy University.

He served as a platoon leader and company executive officer in the 3rd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division and then as a rifle platoon leader and company executive officer in the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. He also was assigned as a Joint Chiefs of Staff intern in Washington, D.C., and after his battalion command, he served as the chief of War on Terror plans for U.S. European Command.

The division, first organized in 1917 in Camp Green, North Carolina, earned its nickname “Rock of Marne” for its defense of Paris by the 30 th and 38th Infantry Regiments in the German thrust to capture Paris in 1918. In World War II, the division holds the distinction as the only division to fight Germany on all war fronts. In the Korean War, the division recaptured Seoul and pushed the Chinese to the 38th Parallel. Throughout the Cold War, the division was stationed in West Germany, defending Western Europe from the threat of attack by Warsaw Pact nations. Since 1991, the division has played pivotal roles in the Persian Gulf War, Operation Iraqi Freedom and the Global War on Terror.

Brig. Gen. James E. Rainey

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