ULM Magazine 2025-2026 • Volume 27

FROM BAYOU TECHE TO BAYOU DESIARD

DR. CARRIE L. CASTILLE — ULM’S TENTH PRESIDENT

Dear Warhawks and Friends,

There’s a renewed energy at the University of Louisiana Monroe—a spirit of possibility, courage, and bold vision that’s lighting the path ahead. Since stepping into this role, I’ve had the privilege of listening to our students, faculty, alumni, and partners, and what I’ve heard is clear: ULM is ready to soar.

Together, we’re shaping the future of this institution by honoring our history and by leaning into the power of who we are and who we’re becoming.

Shaped by the voices we’ve heard and the promise we hold, ULM is charting a bold and purposeful path forward:

• ULM will be a model for how regional universities uplift entire communities.

• ULM will prepare students not only for the workforce, but for meaningful lives.

• ULM will align our programs with

FROM OUR PRESIDENT

regional needs, national opportunity, and global prominence.

• ULM will become the place where innovation grows, belonging thrives, and leadership is nurtured from every corner of campus.

In the pages of our 2025-2026 magazine, you’ll find stories of recent successes and future hopes. You will learn how each of our four colleges is helping shape the future of this region and beyond. You’ll also see stories of generous donors who have chosen to partner with ULM for the ongoing success of our students through scholarships and other endowments. We are perpetually grateful to those who entrust us as stewards of their legacies.

I also hope this issue of the magazine serves as a way for you to learn more about me and what brought a first-generation college graduate from Bayou Teche to Bayou Desiard (with many stops in between). My enthusiasm and

commitment to serve as President of ULM have only grown since my first day in June. I am honored to lead our faculty, staff, and students. Together, we are forging a university whose structure mirrors its ambition, whose operations ensure sustainability, and whose future is defined by excellence and purpose. Our momentum is real. Our mission is strong. And our future is bright—because of advocates like you.

Thank you for your passion, your support, and your belief in this university. Let’s keep building a future worthy of our shared legacy—with purpose, pride, and unstoppable Warhawk spirit.

With gratitude,

Carrie L. Castille, Ph.D. ULM President

President Carrie L. Castille, Ph.D.

photo by Skylar Henry

ON THE COVER

The University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors has named Carrie Castille, Ph.D., the tenth president of The University of Louisiana Monroe. Castille is the first female president in the university’s 94-year history.

appointment

FROM BAYOU TECHE TO BAYOU DESIARD

WARHAWK INNOVATION STUDIOS GIVES STUDENTS AN ENTRYWAY TO THE FILM INDUSTRY

SCHOOL OF CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT DEVELOPS STUDENTS TO BUILD THE FUTURE ULM TOXICOLOGY PROGRAM PREPARES STUDENTS FOR VARIED CAREERS

DR. MICHELLE MCEACHARN NAMED PROVOST AND VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS FAN FOR LIFE: ULM BASEBALL'S MOST DEVOTED SUPPORTER

Castille’s

as president was made after the final round of interviews with the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors in Baton Rouge on Monday, May 19. Photo by Skylar Henry

MAGA ZINE

PRESIDENT

Carrie L. Castille, Ph.D.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

Brice Jones, Ph.D.

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF MEDIA RELATIONS

Adam McDonald, Editor (BA ’06)

EXECUTIVE CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Srdjan Marjanovic (BFA ’12)

GRAPHIC DESIGN COORDINATOR

Mandy Strickland

UNIVERSITY PHOTOGRAPHER

Alaina Herron

DIGITAL CONTENT SPECIALIST

Skylar Henry (BA ’23)

DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST

Molly Masters (BBA ’17)

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ULM ADVANCEMENT, FOUNDATION AND ALUMNI RELATIONS

Susan Chappell (BBA ’82, MBA ’87)

PRESIDENT, ULM ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

Maggie Sims Generoso (BA ’09, ME ’13)

DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI AFFAIRS

Medria Taylor Buford (BS ’18) CONTRIBUTORS

Shannon Banks, Lake Carpenter, Savannah Downey, Patrick Hargon, Heath Hill, Emma Monceaux, Jansen Nowell, Steven Palowsky, Luke Richard, Ann Rodriguez, Ph.D., Joseph Savoie, Nabin Tamang, Paul Ware, Vincent E. Winston II

IT'S A GREAT DAY ON THE BAYOU

At ULM, every day on the bayou is a chance to chase your dreams, to discover yourself, to lead with passion, and to take flight. The university's 2025 institutional commercial brings that message to life through scenes of everyday experiences that make life on the bayou so special.

The ULM® Magazine is published for members of the ULM® Alumni Association and friends of the University of Louisiana Monroe® Send letters & comments to: The ULM® Magazine Office of Marketing & Communications 700 University Ave. Monroe, LA 71209–2500

Email: ulmmagazine@ulm.edu

Any letters or comments may be published and edited for length and style.

Contents © 2025-2026 by the University of Louisiana Monroe® and the ULM® Alumni Association. All rights reserved.The University of Louisiana Monroe® is a member of the University of Louisiana System.

Whether you are jumping hurdles, celebrating with friends, or studying for finals in the library— it's the big moments and the small moments that make being a Warhawk unforgettable. - Molly Masters, Digital Media Specialist

FROM THE ALUMNI DIRECTOR

Dear Alumni and Friends,

The winds of change have swept through ULM recently—but at the University of Louisiana Monroe, we’re no strangers to rising above the unexpected. If there’s one thing our community knows how to do, it’s find a way to soar. I’m honored to work beside our new President, Dr. Carrie L. Castille, and I’m inspired as she so powerfully reminds us that, “Together, we are building a culture rooted in courage and shared commitment—and this is just the beginning of a bold, hopeful chapter for ULM.” Rest assured, the ULM Alumni Association remains resilient, determined, and more committed than ever to its mission of shaping bright futures.

This past year was proof that the heart of our university continues to beat strong. Case in point? Our 2025 Wine Over Water fundraiser drew record-breaking crowds—and no, it wasn’t just for the wine (although, let's be honest, it helped)! With your generosity, we raised over $50,000 for student scholarships and alumni programming, and had a fabulous time doing it. To every sponsor, volunteer, ticket buyer, and cheese enthusiast—thank you. You made it possible.

Meanwhile, our alumni volunteer program is growing faster than a freshman figuring out where Stubbs Hall is. Warhawks across the country are giving back through events, mentorship, and service —and we couldn’t be more grateful. Your passion is the fuel behind our progress.

We’re also thrilled to highlight the incredible students leading the charge through our 31 Ambassadors program. These rising stars are not only hosting impactful events but also championing the spirit of philanthropy across campus. Their work is introducing new faces to our mission and reminding others why ULM

is worth investing in.

So, what’s next for your ULM Alumni Association? In short: more connection, more celebration, and more opportunities to make a lasting impact. Our goals are rooted in expanding chapter and club engagement, growing scholarships, strengthening student support, and bringing more Warhawks home. Here’s how you can help:

• Stay connected by attending alumni events—we want to see you and hear your stories.

• Get involved by volunteering your time or talents—we promise no hazing.

• Join or establish a chapter or club—it’s easier than choosing a major (and way more fun).

• Help recruit future Warhawks—because great students often come from great alumni like you.

And here’s some exciting news: we’ve launched a new Reunion Support Program designed to help you return to campus and reconnect with your classmates. Whether you graduated five years ago or fifty, we’ve got the tools and support to make your reunion unforgettable.

ULM’s heartbeat is stronger than ever—thanks to you! Your commitment, your voice, and your support make every success possible. Let’s keep building the future together—soaring with passion, with purpose, and with pride.

With gratitude and Warhawk pride,

of Alumni Affairs

Medria Taylor Buford Director

Medria Taylor Buford, Director of Alumni Affairs

photo by Amanda Myree

BY ADAM MCDONALD

NEW TO MONROE, BUT NO STRANGER TO LOUISIANA OR HIGHER EDUCATION, DR. CARRIE L. CASTILLE TAKES THE REINS AS ULM’S TENTH—AND FIRST FEMALE—PRESIDENT.

You don’t have to travel very far in any direction in Louisiana to find yourself on the banks of a bayou. These slowmoving, winding bodies of water filled with all manner of wildlife are a unique staple of our state’s identity. At ULM, we are proud to stand alongside the “tranquil water” of beautiful Bayou DeSiard. A little further south in the Bayou State is the town of Breaux Bridge, home to Bayou Teche (pronounced “Tesh”) and the beginning of the story of how Carrie Castille followed her dreams and love for education across the U.S. and eventually back to her home state.

Family, Farms, and 4-H

Carrie Castille was born the youngest of two daughters to a very tight-knit family just outside the city limits of Breaux Bridge, La. Raised on several acres, with sugar cane fields nearby, Castille developed an appreciation for agriculture and the country life early on.

Like many in the region, Castille’s parents worked for the oil and gas industry, but she was taught a lesson in adaptability when during the workforce decline, her parents decided to open a café in downtown Breaux Bridge. Never one to shy away from hard work, as early as the fourth grade, young Carrie joined her dad at the café at 2:00 a.m. to help make the donuts for the day. “We would work until about 6:00 a.m. and then I would sleep on the flour sacks until it was time to go to school,” recalls Castille.

“I like to say I grew up with family, farms, and 4-H,” said Castille. Serving as the treasurer for her local club, she credits 4-H, an agriculturally focused youth organization that teaches students to use their head, heart, health, and hands to better their communities, with teaching her how to lead with character, serve others, and manage responsibility. She went on to show livestock in junior high, fondly remembering her first show lamb, Annie.

Castille went on to proudly become a first-generation college graduate, earning her bachelor’s in engineering from nearby University of Louisiana Lafayette (then named the University of Southwestern Louisiana). Her work ethic only grew during her college years as she worked sometimes three jobs, including work as a tutor, fitness instructor, and rescue diver and instructor at the Marine Survival Training Center.

After earning her bachelor’s, Castille took a job at the LSU Ag Center in Baton Rouge. The job led her to continue her education and obtain her master’s degree in environmental studies and her Ph.D. in renewable natural resources, and eventually work her way up as a faculty member at LSU.

Castille said she never imagined that she would get a Ph.D., but credits her mother for the encouragement and persistence she needed. ▶

“My mother was a very, very strong force in my life. She’s a lot of the reason I am where I am.”

Castille's father Curtis Castille sadly passed away in September 2025. She described herself as incredibly close to her father. "As my family laid our dad to rest, we felt the love from Breaux Bridge where he was born and lived, from Monroe where we now call home, and from this university community that continues to lift us up," she said.

Family remains important to Castille, who is married to husband Dr. Bobby Robichaux, a retired dentist and fellow first-generation college graduate. Together they have two

children. Their daughter Meg met her husband Joel in college, and they recently welcomed their first child, Bennett Andre. Their son Josh is a blues guitar player and musician and is a student at the Berklee College of Music.

“The common thread for me has been education. Being able to see the value of education, what it can do for you and your family, is central to everything that I am as a leader and particularly with the job of President of ULM,” said Castille.

“Just tell me ‘yes.’”

Following her time at LSU, Castille spent

seven years with the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry and eventually moved to a federal position as State Director of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development. Her time in the federal government led her to Washington, D.C., where she became the Director of the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), the first woman to lead the agency and manage a budget exceeding $2 billion. From NIFA, Castille re-entered the world of higher education, serving as Senior Vice Chancellor and Senior Vice-President at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture.

Dr. Castille and her husband, retired dentist Dr. Bobby Robichaux, have settled into Bon Aire, the president's home on Bayou Desiard.

photo by Skylar Henry

by

In early 2025, Castille was attending a function in the nation’s capital, a series of gatherings where advocates for Louisiana can interact with federal lawmakers. A friend approached Castille at one of the gatherings. “Just tell me ‘yes’,” said the friend. Castille was hesitant to reply, not knowing what she might be getting herself into. The friend then told her about the opening of the job of President of ULM. The opportunity certainly spoke Castille’s passion and skillset, but like any good researcher, she had to do her homework first.

“I held myself to the same standards as students in which you conduct your research.

“The common thread for me has been education. Being able to see the value of education, what it can do for you and your family, is central to everything that I am as a leader and particularly with the job of President of ULM.”

– PRESIDENT CARRIE L. CASTILLE

You do a thorough analysis, right?” said Castille. She asked questions, she began to meet with people, and listened with an open mind and heart. “There was a common theme amongst all of the individuals I spoke with about ULM. They all said, ‘This is my university. This is our university.’ ULM is the university of the people. When I heard those types of comments, I knew I could help make a difference for this university, and I proudly raised my hand and committed to the process,” she said.

The process was rigorous and involved many meetings with local stakeholders and interviews with the presidential search committee and the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors, including a public, on-campus interview and Q & A sessions. After being selected as one of two finalists, on May 19, 2025, Dr. Carrie L. Castille was officially named the tenth president of the University of Louisiana Monroe and the first female president in the institution’s 94-year history. Her first day in office was June 9.

The leader ULM needs

Though much has been made of Castille being ULM’s first female president—and rightly so— she doesn’t want to just be known for her gender. “When I applied, I didn’t apply as a female, I applied as the leader who can do the job. I wanted to make sure that the selection committee and the board knew that I was the most qualified candidate, male or female, to support this university, honoring tradition, but also moving forward with the future of ULM,” said Castille.

In fact, being a female trailblazer is not new territory for Castille, as she was the first woman inducted into the UL Lafayette College of ▶

Dr. Castille grabs a selfie with the incoming freshman class at the first PREP session of the year in June, during the first week of her presidency.

photo

Brice Jones

Engineering’s Hall of Distinction and the first woman to lead NIFA.

“I can appreciate and honor the fact that I am the first female in many roles. I’ve stood on the shoulders of many, many successful women and men. I gravitate towards roles where I know I can be successful and have an impact,” she said.

“From a leadership perspective, you have your foundational leadership philosophy and then you tailor that towards the needs of those you are serving and leading. Something that has been important to me throughout my career is

president, setting a bold goal of visiting with 50 CEOs in 50 days. “I needed CEOs to know that we are open for business, that we are committed to student success and serving the needs of the people, and creating the next generation of the workforce that is going to support our region,” said Castille.

She wanted to work quickly to build community buy-in, while also being willing to listen and ask for help from local business leaders. “You know, 99.9% of the time when you ask someone for help, they are going to help you in some way, especially if they share the same type of vision and dedication towards your cause and your passion, which is this university,” said Castille.

Through her meetings with CEOs and with other stakeholders in the region, Castille made notes of their feedback and thought about possibilities for collaboration. The process yielded what Castille refers to as four “Grand Challenges” for ULM. They are:

“I can appreciate and honor the fact that I am the first female in many roles. I’ve stood on the shoulders of many, many successful women and men. I gravitate towards roles where I know I can be successful and have an impact.”

– PRESIDENT CARRIE L. CASTILLE

open and clear communication,” said Castille.

She began her presidency with weekly updates to employees and students, keeping everyone clearly informed of her plans and goals during a transitional time for the university. As she has settled into the role, her emails have become less frequent, but it is important to Castille that she continue to provide updates and let faculty, staff, and students know the “why” of the decisions she makes. “I’m data driven. I don’t make personal decisions; I make functional decisions. It is critical and imperative to me that people see that,” she said.

Grand Challenges

Castille wasted no time once she became

• Advancing Regional Healthcare Innovation

• Enhancing Agriculture & Natural Resources

• Integration and Training for Data & Artificial Intelligence

• Implementng Workforce Readiness & Entrepreneurship

“These Grand Challenges are an opportunity for us to work cross-sector from a workforce development perspective, as well as across campus, involving faculty, staff, and students, regardless of their area, and then working with partners throughout the region to ▶

A self-professed "country girl", Castille makes herself more comfortable by kicking off her shoes as she welcomes faculty and staff at University Week in August 2025.

photo by Skylar Henry

photo by Skylar Henry

accessible,” said Castille.

work collectively on these goals that give us a purposeful path forward. They are very intentional and very deliberate, and I believe, very achievable,” said Castille.

“While they are bold, they are something people can see themselves in, and they will have an impact on the region and make lives better.” Castille harkens back to her 4-H roots as she echoes their motto, “To make the best better.”

“That’s something that I’ve carried forward with me throughout my life, and it’s something I want to see here as well,” she added.

Shared Governance, Visibility, and Accessibility

Within the second month of her presidency, Castille announced the creation of a new University Council, which will serve as a formal venue for cross-sector representation— including faculty, staff, students, administration, athletics, and community members—aimed at promoting collaboration and informed decision-making, directly advising the Office of the President.

“I believe in the power of shared governance. It’s a way to keep everyone accountable. The only way it works is if we have voices from throughout the campus representing everyone. The University Council elevates the student voice. If there are issues that we need to address, we can tackle them. Using this type of structure, my commitment is to all students, and I want to emphasize that all students belong on this campus. When it comes to voices being heard, it is my job to make sure that I’m listening to all voices and that I am visible and

In an email to the campus announcing the University Council, Castille stated that all University Council meetings will be open to the campus community. “Everyone will have the opportunity to hear, contribute, and stay informed. Transparency will guide our process, not just in policy, but in practice,” she said.

Castille is vocal that she wants to be visible on campus. “I want to make sure that I’m in the cafeteria. I’m going to be out there. Students and faculty shouldn’t be surprised if I pop into a class,” she said.

She has floated ideas such as “Pizza with the President” and even hopping on a kayak in Bayou DeSiard for “Paddling with the President”, hoping to engage with students, faculty, and staff in all areas of campus. “It’s my way of listening and learning and making sure that I’m creating opportunities for our students, but also addressing things that need to be addressed,” said Castille.

“Student Success Drives Everything We Do”

In addition to her grand challenges, Castille has also set forth four goals that help outline her institutional vision:

• ULM will be a model for how regional universities uplift entire communities.

• ULM will prepare students not only for the workforce, but for meaningful lives.

• ULM will align our programs with regional needs, national opportunity, and global prominence.

• ULM will become the place where innovation grows, belonging thrives, and leadership is nurtured from every corner of campus.

“I established these goals to be the pillars. We are going to take these goals and build them into

From day one, Dr. Castille has been one of ULM's most spirited supporters. Here she joins students for spirit day at a PREP session in summer 2025.

“I want students to know that we have caring faculty, staff, and leadership who are here to support you in everything you do. I want parents to know that we are here to support and take care of their students.”

– PRESIDENT CARRIE L. CASTILLE

"Students and faculty shouldn't be surprised if I pop into a class," said Castille. Here she addresses a class in the Marjorie S. Price Doctor of Physical Therapy program.

Dr. Castille mingles with students at the HUB during the first week of the semester. She has made student interaction a priority in her presidency.

everything that we do,” said Castille.

“Student success drives everything we do. If we don’t have students, we don’t have a university,” she continued. “I want students to know that we have caring faculty, staff, and leadership who are here to support you in everything you do. I want parents to know that we are here to support and take care of their students.”

The Power of Five

Castille’s natural traits of encouragement and lifting others up were on display in an early interaction she had with a ULM football player on the turf of Malone Stadium. Invited by Coach Bryant Vincent to join the huddle at the end of a hot summer practice, Castille introduced herself and energetically pumped up the team. After meeting everyone and giving countless high-fives, the team retreated to the locker room, but Castille noticed that one player remained on the field, on all fours, bear-crawling his way toward the endzone.

Castille asked Coach Vincent why the player had earned this extra work. “He blew off a five-point quiz,” answered Vincent. Impressed that Coach Vincent held his team to such high standards, Castille asked the coach if he minded if she joined the player. “Do I mind? Go for it!” said Vincent.

Castille kicked off her shoes and joined the player on the 30-yard line. As they bear-crawled together, she asked him, “Do you know who I am?” “Yes, ma’am, you’re our president,” he replied. “Do you know what the job of the president is?” she continued. “My job is to make sure that you’re successful, on the field and in the classroom. Your coach is holding you to a high standard, and I’m going to do the same,” said Castille.

“Let me tell you about the power of the number five,” said Castille. “Five points might be the difference between a D and a C, a C and a B, or a B and an A. It might be the last five cents you have in your checking account, or the last five dollars you need to be able to feed your family. Five points on the scoreboard might be the difference in our Warhawks winning. I never want you to underestimate the power of the number five,” she concluded.

A few weeks later, after the summer session had ended, Castille was back out at a football practice. She asked Coach Vincent how the student did in the class. Smiling he replied, “Dr. Castille, he made a 98!”

As Coach Vincent often says that his job as a coach is to “raise men,” Castille agrees that our job as a university is to raise adults, preparing them for the next phases of their lives. “My hope is that we’re not just part of their life as students, but through their entire life. Maybe as alumni, or seeing them at PREP, because their children have come to ULM.”

“College is a time in a student’s life where they have to learn to deal with disappointments,” said Castille. “They may not make the grade they expected, or they may have to change their major. But what they have here is the support of fellow students, staff, faculty, and leadership, all the way up to my office.

“On the flip side, we’re also here to celebrate the wins with you. And we are going to win, not just on the field, but we’re going to win in the classroom, we’re going to win with innovation, we’re going to win with healthcare, with agriculture and natural resources, with data and AI, and with business and entrepreneurship, because that’s who we are and that’s what we do.”■

photo by Skylar Henry

Representatives from the ULM School of Education traveled to Washington, D.C. on September 18, 2025, to receive the Frank Murray Leadership Recognition for Continuous Improvement from CAEP. Pictured L-R: Yuhang Rong, Chair of CAEP Board of Directors; Jayme Stokes, Certification Coordinator, ULM School of Education; Dr. Shalanda Stanley, Accreditation Coordinator, ULM School of Education; Dr. Myra Lovett, Director, ULM School of Education; Christopher Koch, CAEP President

BY ADAM MCDONALD

SCHOOL OF EDUCATION

NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE

THE SCHOOL CELEBRATED RECOGNITIONS FROM THE COUNCIL FOR THE ACCREDITATION OF EDUCATOR PREPARATION AND THE NATIONAL COUNCIL ON TEACHER QUALITY.

The ULM School of Education in the College of Arts, Education, and Sciences works each day to prepare the next generation of teachers and school administrators. This year, the school was nationally recognized for their excellence by two organizations.

The school received the Frank Murray Leadership Recognition for Continuous Improvement from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). They were one of only 22 programs nationwide to receive the recognition. Representatives from the school accepted the recognition in Washington, D.C. on September 18, 2025.

“We are honored to be recognized for excellence and innovation at a national level,” said Dr. Myra Lovett, Director of the ULM School of Education. “Earning this award could only be possible with the dedication of all of our stakeholders, both internal and external to ULM. Our K-12 school district partners, faculty, staff, and teacher candidates continuously collaborate to build and improve our practices to support K-12 learners. United and led by our accreditation coordinator, Dr. Shalanda Stanley, every stakeholder contributed a valuable piece of the puzzle. Receiving this award shines a light on the ULM School of Education's dedication and hard work in always pursuing continuous improvement,”

added Lovett.

“This recognition from CAEP is a testament to the School of Education’s continued commitment to excellence. I am incredibly proud of our faculty and administrators who have earned this recognition with their dedication to providing the highest caliber of preparation to our future educators,” said ULM President Dr. Carrie Castille.

The Frank Murray Leadership Recognition for Continuous Improvement is awarded to 22 educator preparation providers (EPPs) that achieved accreditation with no stipulations or areas for improvement by demonstrating strong evidence and data trends. Named after the founding President of the Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC), the award celebrates Murray’s legacy as a champion for rigorous educator preparation standards and his role in uniting the profession through

photo courtesy of the ULM School of Education

“This national recognition of the excellent job being done at ULM cements the School of Education’s reputation as a leader in providing K-12 schools with the quality teachers that are driving the increased rankings of Louisiana in K-12 education.”

– DR. JOHN PRATTE

the creation of CAEP.

“These providers are committed to preparing their candidates to make a positive difference in the lives of all K-12 students as soon as they enter the classroom,” said Yuhang Rong, Chair of the CAEP Board of Directors. “The Murray Leadership Recognition highlights their dedication to continuous improvement, accountability, and quality through purposeful use of evidence.”

The announcement of this recognition comes after the ULM School of Education was awarded a renewal of its accreditation from CAEP in spring 2025, which guarantees its accreditation status through spring 2032. The School of Education met all CAEP standards at both the initial-licensure and advanced levels.

“This recognition is further evidence of the incredible job that our faculty, staff, and students are doing in the School of Education,” said Dr. John Pratte, Dean of the ULM College of Arts, Education, and Sciences. “Besides bucking the national trend by continuing to increase the number of students in our education programs, our faculty and K-12 partners are providing the highest quality learning experiences that lead to our alumni consistently winning Teacher of the Year honors. This national recognition of the excellent job being done at ULM cements the School of Education’s reputation as a leader in providing K-12 schools with the quality teachers that are driving the increased rankings of Louisiana in K-12 education,” he continued.

CAEP is the only national accreditor for education preparation recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Accreditation is a nongovernmental activity based on peer review that serves the dual functions of assuring quality and promoting improvement. CAEP is a unified accreditation system intent on raising the performance of all institutions focused on educator preparation.

Earlier in 2025, the School of Education received an A+ rating in elementary math teacher preparation from the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ). ULM was one of only four universities in Louisiana to receive an A+ rating. The school previously received an A+ rating from the NCTQ for Reading Foundations in 2024.

“We are so pleased to be recognized for excellence in the School of Education

by NCTQ,” said Lovett. “With an A+ in preparing future teachers to instruct both Mathematics and Reading Foundations, ULM continues to demonstrate that we stand among the highest-ranked teacher preparation programs in the nation.”

The NCTQ assessment of elementary math teacher prep programs in Louisiana evaluated 17 elementary prep programs to determine whether they dedicate enough time to key math content topics and math pedagogy. The four math content topics include numbers and operations, algebraic thinking, geometry and measurement, and data analysis and probability.

“ULM’s undergraduate program is among the best in the nation for devoting sufficient time to math pedagogy and the four math content areas,” said Ron Noble, Chief of Teacher Prep at NCTQ.

A report from the National Assessment of Education Progress states that 25% of 4th-grade students in Louisiana lack basic math knowledge and skills, underscoring the need for excellence in preparation for math teachers.

“For the second year in a row, the NCTQ has awarded its highest rating, first in Reading Foundations and now in Mathematics,” said Pratte. “This is a great testament to the work of our faculty, students, and regional partners in changing the lives of children in our region and the state and for providing better outcomes for all of our citizens.”

“Dr. Myra Lovett and Dr. Shalanda Stanley provide the critical leadership for our School of Education to implement the time and pedagogy into our undergraduate teacher preparation programs,” said Jayme Stokes, Director of Teacher Certification and Professional Advancement in the School of Education. “ULM graduates have been educated rigorously to prepare them for their professional careers as educators.”

Jayla Anderson is a 2025 graduate of the ULM School of Education who is currently in her first year as a 5th grade math teacher at Cypress Point University Elementary in Monroe.

“The ULM School of Education is truly a full package. From our amazing instructors who taught us how to teach the subjects, to my personal favorite, our field experience, where we got to see how teachers run their classrooms. We got to take all of those experiences into the planning ▶

“It truly helped me with the planning of my classroom and how I wanted it to run. I am so thankful for those experiences because they helped me to have the confidence to be the teacher that I am now.”

– JAYLA ANDERSON

of our classrooms. It truly helped me with the planning of my classroom and how I wanted it to run. I am so thankful for those experiences because they helped me to have the confidence to be the teacher that I am now,” said Anderson.

In addition to their national recognitions, the School of Education received approval from the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) for new programs that will assist teachers in becoming certified. These programs are designed to create clear pathways to certification for uncertified teachers in area school districts.

These new pathways will assist teachers in receiving their Secondary Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in General Science, Middle School Language Arts, Middle School Mathematics, Middle School Science, and Middle School Social Studies.

“We are so excited to add online, cost-effective opportunities in obtaining middle school teaching certification to our alternative certification programs. With the current teacher shortage, this will meet an

important need in our region's K-12 schools,” said Lovett. The certification is a twentyfour-hour, three-semester program designed to last one year, with three classes provided in summer sessions, then one 8-week course in the following fall and spring semesters.

“This middle school pathway is needed in our community. Our middle school students are best served by teachers prepared for their needs. We are excited to be one of the few schools to offer this certification and the only one in north Louisiana. We received support in pursuing this proposal from our rural parishes and our city schools alike,” said Stokes.

The ULM School of Education will also offer free PRAXIS support for teachers applying for the program. The first cohort for the program began in May 2025.

The ULM School of Education currently offers Bachelor of Science degrees in Elementary and Secondary Education, as well as Master of Arts in Teaching and Master of Education degrees, and a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. Learn more at ulm.edu/education.■

Jayla Anderson, a 2025 alum of the ULM School of Education and current 5th grade math teacher at Cypress Point University Elementary in Monroe, is interviewed by KNOE-TV reporter Sophia Hauswirth.

photo courtesy of the ULM School of Education

When you purchase a ULM license plate, 96% of proceeds fund scholarships for ULM students. It’s more than a tag—it’s a symbol of spirit, legacy, and giving back.

ulm.edu/alumni/ulm_license_plate ORDER YOURS TODAY

BY ADAM MCDONALD

SCHOOL OF CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT DEVELOPS STUDENTS

TO BUILD THE FUTURE

THE ULM SCHOOL OF CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT HAS PRODUCED INDUSTRY-LEADING TALENT FOR DECADES. THEIR LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE NOW MEETS A GENERATIONAL OPPORTUNITY AS META ARRIVES IN NORTHEAST LOUISIANA.

A Reputation That Commands Attention

It’s a topic of conversation that has dominated the local community in recent months and will likely continue for years to come. Meta, one of the largest tech companies in the world and parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and more, is building its largest data center to date in rural Richland Parish, just about 30 miles from the ULM campus. The 4-million-square-foot facility is currently being built on a 2,250-acre site in Holly Ridge and represents a $10 billion investment from the company. A project of this magnitude will require a workforce of professionals with the training and expertise to meet the demands of the job. Early on in the process, officials from Meta realized that the ULM School of Construction Management (SOCM) would be a valuable partner in helping produce that workforce.

In the early summer of 2025, representatives from Meta reached out to the ULM School of Construction Management to set up a

meeting to discuss building synergy with the school, as well as ULM’s computer science department. Construction Management Instructor Adam Traweek, a ULM SOCM alumnus, helped facilitate the meeting with Meta on ULM’s campus in June. “They initiated the first step, and I think that’s important, because they recognize the quality of the program that we have here,” said Traweek.

DPR, Mortenson, and Turner are the three national construction firms that have been contracted by Meta for this project. Traweek noted that national companies of this magnitude have a history of hiring ULM construction management graduates and constantly praise the school for producing industry-ready construction managers. “The fact that some of the biggest players in the construction space in the entire country are coming back time and time again and telling us these things, it just cements what we already

know: that we’ve got something special here, and that got back to Meta,” added Traweek.

A Legacy of Groundbreaking Achievements

The ULM School of Construction Management’s history of excellence goes all the way back to its inception in 1966, under the guiding hand of founding Director Thurman Potts, who led the program until his retirement in 1987. In 1976, the school became the first of its kind in the U.S. to be accredited by the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE) and continues to maintain this accreditation. The school’s job placement rate is consistently high, with many seniors accepting positions prior to graduation from some of the nation’s top companies. “As the nation’s first accredited construction management program, we gained a first-mover advantage that established a trusted reputation for innovation and longevity. Sustaining that reputation for 60 years has built a nationwide

Representatives from Meta were hosted on campus in June 2025 by the ULM School of Construction Management. The meeting was to discuss how the company and its construction contractors can build synergy with the university as Meta builds its $10 billion Richland Parish Data Center just 30 miles from ULM's campus.

photo courtesy of ULM School of Construction Management

“The fact that some of the biggest players in the construction space in the entire country are coming back time and time again and telling us these things, it just cements what we already know: that we’ve got something special here, and that got back to Meta.”

– ADAM TRAWEEK

alumni network of industry titans who continually open doors for our graduates,” said Traweek. He adds that the advantage is significant due to construction management being one of the fastest-growing majors nationwide, with universities continually adding the degree program due to high industry demand.

Dr. Clint Martin, Director of the ULM School of Construction Management, says that the success of its students is due in part to the well-rounded nature of the curriculum and the variety of projects that students are exposed to. Additionally, Martin and his faculty work to produce graduates who are self-motivated and have critical thinking skills. “You have to be an autonomous problem solver,” said Martin. “That’s what we’re trying to produce. Companies don’t want to hire someone who needs to always be told what to do,” he added.

Part of building this type of graduate workforce comes from the background of the school’s faculty. Each faculty member is required to have at least 10 years of experience in the field of construction management, so they are teaching students from real-world expertise.

Marshall Hill, PE, PLS, is the Engineer in Residence at the School of Construction Management. Hill came to teach at ULM once he retired from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD)

after 31 years, serving as a project engineer and a district administrator during that time. “Our students are driven to succeed in this industry. As an instructor, I just have to lead them in the right direction. Students graduating from our program have almost unlimited opportunities and a very bright future,” said Hill.

Also important to the success of the program is the Industry Advisory Council (IAC), a group of dedicated alumni and current industry leaders committed to the program’s long-standing excellence. The council advises university and school officials on current industry trends and real-world developments to keep the curriculum aligned with field practice. Members travel from across the country for daylong meetings in Monroe to ensure the program continues to meet the needs of employers

“That level of industry alignment is a real differentiator,” said Traweek. “The outcomes reflect it: average starting salaries continuing to rise with total compensation packages exceeding six figures, many students obtaining multiple job offers before becoming seniors, and 40-50 recruiters on average that attend our job fairs with additional visits throughout the semester,” he added. The starting salaries of Construction Management graduates are among the highest of any of ULM’s undergraduate programs.

ULM SOCM graduates are hired by a ▶

ULM construction management students often receive multiple jobs offers before graduation and their starting salaries are among the highest of any of the university’s undergraduate programs.

photos by Skylar Henry

wide range of construction companies, public agencies, and real estate developers. These employers operate across the various commercial, residential, industrial, and civil sectors. Graduates help deliver projects such as international airports, high-rise mixed-use towers, healthcare campuses, professional sports venues, semiconductor and advanced manufacturing plants, and large public infrastructure projects.

“Employers tell us every time they come here that they often choose ULM graduates over those from other esteemed universities with construction management programs,” said Traweek. “Our competitors aren’t regional universities; they’re marquee, household-name institutions nationwide. ULM’s construction management degree delivers comparable outcomes for a fraction of the price at peer programs.”

Building a Bright Future

Martin is hopeful that the proximity of the Meta project will allow SOCM students to be more exposed to what is happening in their backyard. The school is working with all three of the prime construction companies hired by Meta to explore ways to keep students plugged into the project in Holly Ridge. The connection points could include field trips, guest lecturers, or even the hiring of adjunct faculty who are executives on the project.

Both Martin and Traweek point to the rise in the need for data centers in general as a megatrend for the future of the construction industry. ULM graduates who gain experience on the Meta project may be poised to become industry leaders as the trend continues into the future.

As data centers signal the growing demand for AI-powered products that will likely change entire industries, Traweek says the value of the construction managers of tomorrow will lie in their ability to manage and motivate people. “One thing I include in any lesson I teach is that you can have the best game plan in the world on paper, but if you can’t motivate anybody to go out and execute it on the job site, it’s worthless. Being people-centric is at the core of this major,” said Traweek.

The future of the ULM School of Construction Management is bright, as Martin says enrollment in the school has trended upward in the last few years. In 2024, ULM secured $5 million from the Louisiana Higher Education Campus Revitalization Fund for the new School

“You have to be an autonomous problem solver. That’s what we’re trying to produce. Companies don’t want to hire someone who needs to always be told what to do,” he added.”

– DR. CLINT MARTIN

of Construction Management practice lab, which will be built as an addition to the current Construction Building. The lab will be home to the Construction Practices class, which teaches hands-on, practical means and methods of construction, allowing students to be exposed to the type of work they will one day manage. The addition will also include a flex classroom and technology lab, among other program

photo by Skylar Henry

necessities. Bids for the project will be accepted in November, with construction expected to begin in 2026.

The ULM School of Construction Management has long referred to themselves as “The Groundbreakers.” Aside from the obvious construction tie-in, the program itself remains groundbreaking from its earliest days up to the present.

“We’ve always viewed ourselves as a leader in innovation, going back to being the first accredited construction management program,” said Traweek. “You take that same mindset into 2025, where data centers are the backbone of this AI trend, and you have companies like Meta that want to come meet with us. Rather than keeping pace, we aim to set it. Not just regionally, or even nationally, but on a global scale.”■

ULM construction management students learn from instructors with at least 10 years of experience in the construction management field. They are exposed to many facets of the industry, which prepares them for a variety of jobs after graduation.

BY ADAM MCDONALD

SEEING THE POSSIBILITIES

NEW EQUIPMENT ALLOWS RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM TO ACCOMMODATE GROWTH

Radiologic technology student Kylee Portilloz demonstrates the use of a new X-ray machine in Kitty DeGree Hall while fellow student Abagail Pace observes.

(Editor's note: Radiologic technology students do not perform X-rays on human patients using on-campus equipment. Students posing as patients are for demonstration purposes only.)

The workforce for many healthcare fields was decimated by the COVID-19 pandemic five years ago, and radiologic technology was no exception. As the world battled the deadly disease, many radiologic technologists were on the frontlines, conducting much-needed X-rays, CT scans, and other tests. The proximity to the virus left them vulnerable, with many contracting COVID and others deciding the risk was too great and seeking other career opportunities. Now in 2025, Louisiana is facing a shortage of healthcare workers, but enrollment in the ULM radiologic technology program has outpaced pre-COVID numbers as the program strives to meet the demand for these professionals in the state.

Students in the radiologic technology program at ULM are now experiencing the benefits of a brand new digital X-ray lab that was installed in Kitty DeGree Hall earlier this year. This fully digital lab contains a floormounted and wall-mounted X-ray machine

that is the same level of equipment used in hospitals and physicians’ offices today.

“In a rapidly changing field, it’s important that we train with equipment that is up to date, so that students are learning something that is pliable and usable when they get out into the field,” said Brett Bennett, Director of the radiologic technology program.

The $100,000 machine was funded by a grant from the Louisiana Workforce Training Rapid Response Fund, which was authorized by the state legislature. The fund is managed by the Louisiana Community and Technical College System (LCTCS). Four-year institutions on the I-20 corridor in Louisiana were invited by LCTCS to participate in the funding. Funds were awarded to ULM based on how well programs exceeded their average number of graduates.

“The goal of this funding from the legislature was to expand our healthcare workforce. Mr. Bennett and his faculty have consistently met

this objective, and with this new equipment will be able to continue to provide exceptional radiologic technologists for the future, who will have been trained on state-of-the-art equipment,” said Dr. Wendy Bailes, Dean of the ULM College of Health Sciences. “I want to thank Dr. Wendi Palermo from LCTCS. They did not have to include 4-year institutions in this funding, but Dr. Palermo has a vision for increasing the healthcare workforce in the state by any means possible,” added Bailes.

Anyone who has had an X-ray in the last decade knows that the technology has come a long way from grainy images printed on thin sheets of film and held up to a light source to be viewed. Today’s X-ray machines are 100% digital, using what are known as “image receptors”, which Bennett describes as “the device that captures the X-rays that pass through the patient.” The image receptors pass the data into a software system that creates the image that can be read by doctors.

Bennett says the field has changed unimaginably since he first began as a student in 1998. After graduating in 2001, Bennett became a faculty member and continued to work in the program until he became its director in 2007. Bennett has guided the radiologic technology program for 18 years now, while also continuing to work as a technologist in local hospitals on a part-time basis.

With five other faculty members in addition to Bennett, the program is one of only four bachelor’s degree programs of its kind in the state and continues to experience growth, recently expanding from just a junior and senior program, to now include a sophomore class as well. “Not only are the junior and senior classes larger than before, but the addition of the sophomore class makes the growth astronomical,” said Bennett.

He attributes the growth to the aforementioned need for radiologic technologists that Louisiana is currently experiencing. Not only are hospital jobs in high demand, but the proliferation of walk-in

“They’re telling us that our students are prepared. They don’t require a lot of on-the-job training and supervision. They can act independently relatively soon when they get out into the field.”

– BRETT BENNETT

clinics with X-ray machines within the state has increased demand for qualified radiologic technologists to operate them.

Students in the ULM radiologic technology program gain experience not only with X-ray machines, but also with fluoroscopy, which uses radiation to create video images and is used in procedures such as heart catheterizations and other procedures that require a scope to record imaging. Additionally, students receive field training working with computed tomography (CT) machines at local hospitals and clinics.

The result of this experience is graduates who make an immediate impression on their new employers. “That’s the response we get from our partners in the area. They’re telling us that our students are prepared. They don’t

require a lot of on-the-job training and supervision. They can act independently relatively soon when they get out into the field,” said Bennett.

“This program exposes students to stressors that help them learn to respond in an intense field where they have to make good decisions and produce good images,” said Bennett, adding that he often receives calls and emails from employers who praise the excellence of the program’s graduates. “I feel like that is a great testament to the quality of our students and our faculty,” he added.

Looking to the future, the radiologic technology program plans to add another fully digital lab with a state-of-the-art overhead X-ray machine which will be installed in Sugar Hall, which is currently undergoing a renovation. The renovated building will also be home to several other College of Health Sciences programs. The renovation is expected to be completed in time for the fall 2026 semester.

“The healthcare workforce deficit is very real and growing,” said Bailes. “It will require every institution collaborating to address the shortage. Funding opportunities that help provide for this new equipment for radiologic technology and the renovation of Sugar Hall, demonstrate what can happen when the legislature and education at each level work together to complete the mission.”■

Program Director Brett Bennett reviews an X-ray with students Lynda Nielsen and Olivia Dannehl. Modern X-ray machines do not use film, but rather use image receptors to create a digital image to be reviewed on computers.

Radiologic Technology students train on the the same level of equipment they will use in the field. Pictured L-R: Student Macy Reeves, student Lynda Nielsen, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rebecca Hamm, Program Director Brett Bennett, student Kylee Portilloz (on table.).

photos by Skylar Henry

BY ADAM MCDONALD AND SHANNON BANKS

ULM TOXICOLOGY PROGRAM

PREPARES STUDENTS FOR VARIED CAREERS

If you’ve brushed your teeth, eaten food from a grocery store, or taken medication today, you can thank a toxicologist for their role in making sure these activities are safe for you to do. Toxicology is the scientific study of the harmful effects of chemicals, substances, or environmental stressors on living organisms. The founding principle of toxicology is “Dosis sola facit venenum” or “The dose makes the poison.”

Toxicology teaches us that all substances can be toxic depending on the dose. It focuses on understanding the nature, mechanisms, and effects of harmful substances on biological systems. Toxicology covers everything from drugs, poisons, pesticides, environmental pollutants, industrial chemicals, and household products to naturally occurring toxins like snake venom or plant alkaloids.

The ULM toxicology program was

ULM toxicology seniors Katelynn Johnson (left) and Caroline Louviere (right) demonstrate toxicological experiments in Hanna Hall. Both plan to graduate in spring 2026.

photo by Alaina Herron

established in 1982 and is currently one of only ten in the United States to offer a Bachelor of Science in toxicology. Housed in the School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences within the College of Pharmacy, the toxicology program prepares students for a wide range of careers or sets them up to pursue a Doctor of Pharmacy degree (PharmD).

One of the most promising career paths for ULM toxicology graduates is industrial hygiene. Industrial hygiene is the science and practice of anticipating, recognizing, evaluating, controlling, and confirming controls of workplace hazards that may cause illness, injury, or impaired well-being among workers. It can be thought of as the application of toxicology to protect the health and well-being of workers in all types of jobs. Industrial hygienists focus on identifying and reducing hazards that can affect people’s health on the job. These include chemical, physical, biological and ergonomic hazards. The goal is to protect workers’ health, ensure regulatory compliance, and promote safe, productive workplaces.

“The mixture of toxicology, chemistry, and biology courses required to earn the ULM toxicology bachelor’s is the perfect mix of coursework to allow our students to excel after transitioning to the job market as an industrial hygienist or to graduate school while earning an upper-level degree in industrial hygiene,” stated John Herrock, ULM Toxicology Instructor. “Many of our graduates have chosen a career in industrial hygiene and are excelling in the field at all levels of industry, from being on the plant floor to holding important corporate safety and health positions.”

Additional career options for toxicology graduates include becoming an environmental toxicologist, who studies the impacts of pollutants on ecosystems and public health, a forensic toxicologist, who analyzes biological samples while working alongside law enforcement, a product safety specialist, who tests and certifies products such as cosmetics, food additives, and consumer products, or a public health scientist who develops policies, conducts risk assessments, and ensures food, water, and air safety.

Pharmacy emphasizes the therapeutic use of drugs, while toxicology emphasizes the adverse effects of drugs and chemicals. Toxicology is crucial to pharmacy because it ensures the safety and efficacy of medications by studying the harmful effects of drugs on living organisms. It plays a vital role in drug ▶

BY DR. KEVIN BAER

The ULM toxicology faculty have been awarded a grant in the amount of $134,299 to conduct water quality monitoring in the Upper Bayou Lafourche watershed. The funding source is the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency with a sub-grant agreement with the Gulf of America Alliance and the Morehouse Soil & Water Conservation District. This project will determine current water quality conditions in the Bayou Lafourche watershed and indicate potential changes in water quality, i.e., nutrient reduction, due to Best Management Practices (BMPs) implemented by area farmers and landowners. ULM toxicology will sample monthly for three years after BMP implementation has concluded.

The ULM toxicology faculty have been involved in numerous EPA and Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality grants over the years to determine baseline water quality criteria and the success of BMP implementation to reduce nonpoint source pollution and improve the “health” of our area water bodies. According to Dr. Kevin Baer, Professor of Toxicology and an Aquatic Toxicologist, “These projects have provided our students with valuable experience and expertise in water quality monitoring methods and techniques as well as educating the community on a variety of nonpoint source pollution issues.”

ULM toxicology faculty awarded grant to monitor water quality in Bayou Lafourche watershed

development from the initial preclinical stages to clinical trials and post-market surveillance. Together, they provide a full picture of how substances interact with the body.

The toxicology degree can also serve as a pathway for admission to pharmacy school. By following the toxicology curriculum, students fulfill the requirements for entry into ULM’s Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program. Students complete courses in general chemistry, organic chemistry, cell biology, microbiology, and anatomy & physiology — all standard prerequisites for pharmacy school. They also take specialized courses like Clinical Toxicology, General Toxicology, and Industrial Hygiene, which deepen their understanding of how drugs and chemicals affect health.

Students can apply to ULM’s College of Pharmacy after completing the prerequisites, which takes two to three years. If admitted early, students can transition directly into the PharmD program. Others finish the full B.S. in toxicology first, which strengthens their academic background and provides a competitive advantage. The standalone

MEET THE TOXICOLOGY FACULTY

Toxicology Instructor John Herrock is a two-time ULM alum who also works as a part-time industrial hygiene consultant, providing services to local industries.

bachelor’s degree opens doors to careers in government and industry, providing a strong backup plan if pharmacy school isn’t pursued or is delayed.

“Choosing this pathway keeps both options open — pharmacy school and toxicology careers. Toxicology graduates often enter pharmacy programs with a deeper understanding of drug safety and mechanisms of action. Student who are not admitted to pharmacy school still have excellent job prospects in labs, healthcare, and industry,” said Shannon Banks, ULM Toxicology Instructor.

Dr. Kevin Baer is a Professor of Toxicology and the Interim Director of the School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences. He is from Tampa, Fla. and earned his B.S. in biology and Ph.D. in pharmacology and toxicology from ULM (then NLU) in 1982 and 1988, respectively. He joined ULM as an assistant professor in 1994. His research focus has been in evaluating biomarkers to assess aquatic and environmental health.

Mr. Shannon Banks is from Crossett, Ark., and received his B.S. in Toxicology and M.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences at ULM (then NLU) in 1995 and 1998, respectively. He joined ULM as an instructor and academic advisor in 2007 after six years as an environmental toxicologist at Eli Lilly and Company and two years as a Project Research Associate at Elanco Animal Health. He is also a faculty advisor for Tau Omicron Chi.

The founding principle of toxicology is “Dosis sola facit venenum” or “The dose makes the poison.” Toxicology teaches us that all substances can be toxic depending on the dose. It focuses on understanding the nature, mechanisms, and effects of harmful substances on biological systems.

photos by Alaina Herron

Katelynn Johnson is a senior toxicology major from Baton Rouge, La. Though she began her college career as a pre-pharmacy major, she changed to toxicology during her first semester after taking her first toxicology class. “I like how toxicological knowledge applies to many areas, so I’m not confined to one path after graduating,” said Johnson. She said the major aligns with her desire to be in a profession that helps others. “At the root of every toxicologyrelated job, you are helping people, whether it is ensuring the health of employees in their workplace or forensic testing to help solve a criminal case,” she said.

Johnson also serves as the president of Tau Omicron Chi (TOX), a student organization for toxicology majors that serves as both an academic and social support network for students pursuing careers in toxicology, pharmacy, medicine, and related fields. TOX provides opportunities to participate in community projects, educational activities, guest lectures, and social gatherings. “Groups like TOX are important because students can find community within them. I met some of my very best friends through Tau Omicron Chi,” said Johnson. Additionally, TOX helps provide information to students about internships and employment opportunities beyond graduation.

Caroline Louviere is a senior toxicology major from Houma, La. who plans to attend pharmacy school at ULM after graduating with her bachelor’s in toxicology. “Mr. Banks and the rest of the toxicology faculty welcomed me with open arms and have made the coursework relatable and interesting,” said Louviere. She says having a toxicology degree will be beneficial for her as she enters pharmacy school. “Learning

“Toxicology is a broad science and the curriculum at ULM does a great job covering the various areas. Every new toxicology class I take seems to open up a new career possibility.”

– KATELYNN JOHNSON

Ms. Lauren Cramer is from Sterlington, La., and received her B.S. in Toxicology and M.S. in Biology from ULM in 2019 and 2022, respectively. She joined ULM as an instructor and academic advisor in 2023 after working for the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality as an environmental scientist in the Underground Storage Tank and Radiological Emergency Services divisions. She is also a faculty advisor for Tau Omicron Chi.

the different mechanisms for how chemicals and medications can harm certain organs will help me to know the adverse effects of medications on my patients, and it will help me to better educate my patients on these adverse effects,” she said.

Johnson says she is still deciding on her plans after graduating, noting that every new toxicology class she takes seems to open up a new career possibility. “Toxicology is a broad science and the curriculum at ULM does a great job covering the various areas,” said Johnson. She says that she does have a desire to continue her education, likely moving toward a master’s in industrial hygiene or a Ph.D. at ULM’s College of Pharmacy.

Louviere says that following her completion of pharmacy school, she’d like to return to her hometown and work in a hospital or retail pharmacy. “The toxicology program has taught me hard work, determination, and critical thinking skills to solve problems,” she said.

The career outlook for toxicologists is strong, with projected growth exceeding the average for all occupations, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “This demand is driven by the increasing awareness and need to manage the risks associated with chemicals and other toxicants in the environment and various products,” said Banks.

Toxicology is an important part of the ULM College of Pharmacy and remains consistent in preparing students for impactful careers with opportunities for growth. ■

Mr. John Herrock is from Butler, Pa., and received his B.S. and M.S. in Biology from ULM (then NLU) in 1985 and 1987, respectively. He joined ULM as an instructor in 1993, after six years as a corporate industrial hygienist for Manville Corporation. Mr. Herrock maintains his skills by continuing to practice industrial hygiene as a part-time consultant providing services to local industries.

BY ADAM MCDONALD

Rodriguez has served as a faculty member at ULM since 2007, most recently as the Director of the William D. Hoover School of Accounting, Financial, and Information Services, prior to his appointment as Dean.

DR. ARTURO RODRIGUEZ NAMED DEAN OF THE COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND

TAfter 18 years in various faculty roles at ULM, Dr. Arturo Rodriguez was named the new Dean of the College of Business and Social Sciences (CBSS) in June 2025.

"It is my sincere pleasure to announce Dr. Arturo Rodriguez as the next Dean of the College of Business and Social Sciences,” said Dr. Michelle McEacharn, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, upon his

SOCIAL SCIENCES

appointment. “Dr. Rodriguez brings a strong research background as well as consistent and engaged service to ULM and the external community. He is deeply committed to supporting and empowering future business and industry professionals,” she continued. Born and raised in Durango City, Mexico, Arturo Rodriguez grew up idolizing his older cousins. He particularly wanted to follow in the footsteps of his cousin who

“I want repeat business from local companies. I want the community to say, ‘You have a good product. Let me get some more of that.’”

– DR. ARTURO RODRIGUEZ

excelled at tennis. As a young athlete, Arturo showed great promise, and his skills earned him a scholarship to play tennis and get his bachelor’s degree at Harding University in Searcy, Ark. After a successful undergraduate career, Rodriguez opted to continue his education at Harding when a graduate assistantship with the tennis team allowed him to work on his MBA, which he earned in 1999.

Entering the workforce at the height of the dot-com boom, Rodriguez was full of hope to begin his career in the world of marketing and had offers from several companies. When the bubble burst in 2000, he was left looking for a job and unsure of his next step. He ended up in Colorado, where he says he got into banking “by accident.”

Rodriguez initially took the job just to make some money as he figured out what he would

his future at ULM began to fall into place. Rodriguez was introduced to then-ULM professor Dr. Roy Clinton, who in turn introduced him to Dr. Michelle McEacharn, who at the time was Associate Dean of the College of Business and has since gone on to be Dean of the College of Business and Social Sciences and currently serves as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs.

After earning his Doctor of Management degree from Colorado Technical University in 2007, Rodriguez was persuaded by his new friends to come to ULM, where he began his career in higher education as an instructor. He eventually became an assistant professor and associate professor before serving as Director of the William D. Hoover School of Accounting, Financial, and Information Services until his appointment as dean.

As he steps into the role of dean, Rodriguez

do next, but his bosses saw potential and put him in a management training program. The opportunity allowed him to see all sides of the banking business, and while he was enjoying the work, it wasn’t his passion. As he continued his work in the banking industry, he felt pulled to eventually go into teaching.

“I had some really good professors in my master’s program, and I felt like higher education was something I would like to explore at some point,” said Rodriguez.

The chance to work toward his doctorate came in the form of a program his employer offered that allowed managers to pursue a Doctor of Management degree. While pursuing his doctorate, Rodriguez wrote a paper for a class that was well-received, and he was encouraged by his professor and mentor to present it at a conference in San Diego. Rodriguez took the advice and made the submission, his first foray into academia. It was there in San Diego that the pieces of

says he hopes to maintain the momentum that the college has seen in recent years, following the dip in enrollment from the COVID-19 pandemic. He says the programs have found steadier footing, with some even experiencing increases.

Rodriguez says the need to keep up with current technologies will be at the forefront of his goals for the college. He hopes all of the CBSS programs will find ways to integrate new technologies to best prepare students for the workforce. Rodriguez is also keen to meet with local industry leaders to find out what problems need to be solved and create a pipeline of graduates with the skills to help meet the needs of businesses.

“I want repeat business from local companies. I want the community to say, ‘You have a good product. Let me get some more of that,’” said Rodriguez.

Mentorship and good working relationships are paramount to Rodriguez, who says he

has been mentored by several colleagues and leaders during his time at ULM. “I am grateful for the past eighteen years of mentorship I received from three highly capable CBSS deans, and many other colleagues with whom I closely worked; each with amazing abilities to connect students, faculty, and the broader community,” said Rodriguez. “That’s what’s so special about this place. It’s the relationships. It’s been a great experience,” he added.

Rodriguez carries out that mentorship as a leader in the way he interacts with his students as well. He credits his own professors for his interest and success in higher education, recalling how he could sit in their offices and pick their brains for hours. That experience has inspired him to be just as accessible. “I have a soft spot for student-athletes and international students because I was both,” he says, noting that he likes to help field their questions about getting internships and filling

Born in Durango City, Mexico, Rodriguez came to the U.S. in college to play tennis at Harding University in Arkansas. His personal experience as a student-athlete and an international student has prepared him to mentor students with similar backgrounds throughout his career.

out the correct paperwork.

In his time at ULM, Rodriguez earned the Foundation Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2018 and recently participated in the Management & Leadership Institute cohort through the University of Louisiana System in 2024-2025. He also recently served as the Chair of the University Academic Athletic Advisory Committee.

Rodriguez lives in Monroe with his wife of 25 years, and he continues to play tennis competitively in his free time, representing the state of Louisiana in tournaments across the south through the Louisiana Tennis Association.

Rodriguez says he finds excitement for his new role from the daily dedication of his CBSS colleagues. “My hope is that we all might feel encouraged about the future and continue to brighten our students’ career prospects,” he said.■

photos by Skylar Henry

BY ADAM MCDONALD

$96,000 IN PRIZES AWARDED

AT 4RD ANNUAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP PELICAN CUP

The Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup hosted its fourth annual awards luncheon on April 10, 2025, at ULM’s Bayou Pointe Event Center. The luncheon was the culmination of the entrepreneurship competition, with $96,000 in prize money awarded to the three top teams, including their faculty advisors, and the winner of the live elevator pitch competition, voted on by attendees of the luncheon.

FarmSmarter.ai, a team comprised of students from Louisiana State University, took home the first-place prize of $50,000. FarmSmarter is an AI-driven agricultural consulting tool that transforms complex farming decisions into accessible, actionable intelligence. FarmSmarter. ai features team leader Grant Muslow, team members Cole Lacombe, Colin Raby, Julius Pallotta, and advisor Fahimeh Abbasi.

“This is going to completely change the trajectory of our company so that we can add all of the features that will really change farmers’ lives,” said FarmSmarter.ai team leader Grant Muslow.

The second-place prize of $25,000 was awarded to UDOIT, a team from Louisiana State University Shreveport. UDOIT is a mobile app that helps families connect through fun, interactive physical activities, designed to make family time enjoyable for all ages anywhere. UDOIT features team leader Khaled Saif, team members Dana Bader, Eman Bader, Xzayvier Ford-Smith, and advisor Mike McDaniel.

Third place and a prize of $10,000 went

“Entrepreneurship comes from a single idea, the dedication to continue, modify, and grow that idea. There will be obstacles, and there will be failure, but many times we learn the very most through our challenges.”

– DHU THOMPSON

to AmbER, a team from Grambling State University. AmbER is a discreet, attachable safety device designed to provide immediate assistance in emergencies. AmbER offers AIpowered alerts, real-time GPS tracking, and satellite-enabled communication to ensure help is always within reach. AmbER features team leader Flyness Namatama, team members Tanyaradzwa Mangundhla, Mosopefoluwa John, Emmanuel Oladele, Daniel Osuoha, and advisor Derrick Warren.

The advisors from each of the top three teams also received a $3,000 prize.

The winner of the live elevator pitch competition was Colin Raby from FarmSmarter. ai. Raby won the $2,000 prize after receiving the most votes from attendees of the luncheon, who voted online after hearing 90-second pitches from each team.

The Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup is open to teams from any four-year university or college in the state of Louisiana. The contest received 34 entries from eight universities, including Grambling State University, Louisiana State University, Louisiana State University Shreveport, Louisiana Tech University, Northwestern State University, Tulane University, the University of Louisiana Monroe, and the University of New Orleans.

Dhu Thompson, Premier Sponsor and Founder of The Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup provided remarks at the luncheon.

After thanking those who helped make the competition happen and recounting his own entrepreneurial experiences, Thompson spoke directly to the student competitors. “The Pelican Cup is not merely an event, but it is a snapshot of our future,” said Thompson. “Entrepreneurship comes from a single idea, the dedication to continue, modify, and grow that idea. There will be obstacles, and there will be failure, but many times we learn the very most through our challenges,” Thompson added.

The luncheon also featured special guest speaker Rich Simmerman, CEO of Cantaloupe AI, the winner of the 2024 Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup first-place prize. He shared that future of tech innovation can exist in Louisiana. “Our win at the Pelican Cup changed everything for us. And while, yes, the prize money was a huge help, it was the people in this room who made the biggest difference. To the funders of the Pelican Cup and the University of Louisiana

FarmSmarter.ai took home the first-place prize of $50,000. Pictured L-R: Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup Founder and Premier Sponsor Dhu Thompson, team member Colin Raby, former ULM President Dr. Nick Bruno, team advisor Fahimeh Abbasi, team leader Grant Muslow, ULM Provost and VP for Academic Affairs Dr. Michelle McEacharn.

2026 ENTREPRENEURSHIP

PELICAN CUP EXPANDS WITH NEW CATEGORIES AND PRIZE AMOUNTS

The Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup, Louisiana’s premier business plan competition hosted annually at the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM), has announced an expansion for 2026. For the 5th year of the competition, contestants will be split into undergraduate and graduate categories. The overall prize pool will grow from $96,000 to $157,000. The application period for the 2026 competition begins on December 1, 2025, with the oral finals and awards luncheon taking place on March 25-26, 2026 on the ULM campus.

For the 2026 Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup competition, the graduate category prize amounts will be $50,000 for first place, $25,000 for second place, and $10,000 for third place. For the new undergraduate category, the prize amounts will be $25,000 for first place, $15,000 for second place, and $10,000 for third place. Graduates and undergraduates will compete in separate elevator pitch competitions at the Awards Luncheon, with a $2,000 prize on the line for each winner. Additionally, faculty advisors for the first, second, and third-place teams in each category will receive $3,000 each.

Cathi Hemed, ULM Director of External Initiatives, states that the new undergraduate category was created to allow for wider competition and more incentive for undergraduate students to compete. “By increasing the prize pool and separating the two divisions, we are touching more lives and encouraging more entrepreneurial creativity across this great state. Now our undergraduates, who may still be in the conceptual stages, are able to compete in their own division, intended to recognize their hard work and encourage them to keep growing,” said Hemed.

Dhu Thompson, founder and premier sponsor of the Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup, believes this new investment in the competition will help grow the entrepreneurial spirit that the competition has been fostering since the beginning. “This program has always had its sights on greater impact and more growth. This is a natural step that touches more lives and keeps our momentum going. We set out to change the landscape of entrepreneurship in higher education, and that’s what we will always strive to do,” said Thompson.

For more information about the Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup, including application and competition dates, please visit ulm.edu/pelicancup

Monroe, thank you for believing in slightly crazy entrepreneurs like myself,” said Simmerman.

About The Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup

Open to all majors with cash prizes totaling $96,000, The Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup is the premiere business plan competition for Louisiana. It provides an opportunity for students to develop critical thinking, team building, presentation, and other soft skills which are all important to career growth. The goal is to inspire participants and the community to think entrepreneurially by rewarding creativity, professionalism, and hard work. Thirty-four teams submitted written, formal business plans which were reviewed and scored independently by a panel of twenty volunteer judges made up of business owners and investors. The panel of judges later deliberated in groups to select the six finalist teams.

The six finalist teams presented in-person oral presentations, held March 25th at The Hangar on the ULM campus. Seven volunteer

judges dedicated their time to listening to each team present their business plan and supporting visuals. The judges then deliberated and selected the first, second, and third-place winners.

The Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup was founded by distinguished ULM alumnus Dhu Thompson. Thompson is the founder, past owner, and former chairman of the board for Delta Plastics, producer of agricultural irrigation tubing, and the largest recycler of plastics in Arkansas. He is also the former owner and past chairman of the board for Revolution Bag, which manufactures EPA-compliant trashcan liners. Thompson’s honors include 2004 Arkansas Business Executive of the Year and SBA Person of the Year. In 2019 he sold the Revolution brands to a New York private equity firm and now focuses on entrepreneurship growth in Arkansas and Louisiana. In 2023, Thompson received the Warhawk Ambassador Award, one of ULM’s highest honors. Earlier in 2024, Thompson was inducted into the Arkansas Business Hall of Fame. ■

AmbER, a team from Grambling State University, won third place and $10,000. Pictured L-R: Emmanuel Oladele , Tanyaradzwa Mangundhla, Daniel Osuoha, Mosopefoluwa John , advisor Derrick Warren, and team leader Flyness Namatama.

photos by Jansen Nowell

UDOIT, a team from LSU-S, took home the second place prize of $25,000. Pictured L-R: Xzayvier Ford-Smith, team leader Khaled Saif, Dana Bader. Not pictured: Eman Bader, advisor Mike McDaniel.

BY ADAM MCDONALD

BACK ON THE BAYOU

ULM WATER SKI GREAT MARTIN KOLMAN RETURNS TO BAYOU DESIARD AS THE NEW COACH OF THE TEAM

Aformer University of Louisiana Monroe water ski great is back on the bayou. Martin Kolman has been named the new head coach of the ULM Water Ski team. Kolman was the 2019 International Waterski and Wakeboard Federation (IWWF) Men’s World Overall Champion and is a two-time alumnus of the ULM kinesiology program, earning a bachelor’s degree in 2016 and a master’s degree in 2017.

“I am very excited to be the new coach of the ULM Water Ski team,” said Kolman. I was part of the ULM Water Ski team from August 2012 to December 2017. During my time at ULM as a student-athlete and a graduate assistant, we won five national championships. My time at ULM laid the foundation for me to become the 2019 World Overall Champion. I believe that I can lead the team to a bright future and bring the 30th national championship to Monroe, La.”

Kolman has previously served as the head coach for the Chilean Olympic Committee from 2019-2020 and is the current chairman of the IWWF Athlete Commission. He is the 2024 and 2021 European Trick Champion and the 2021 and 2014 European Overall Champion.

“The ULM Water Ski Team Booster Club formed in January 2023 to help support the

University to regain its national dominance that it has had over the past forty-five years in collegiate waterskiing,” said Perry Cox, President of the ULM Water Ski Booster Club. “The Water Ski Team Booster Club is excited to support hiring Martin Kolman, a former world champion three-event skier and world-class coach, to lead our program back to the preeminent program we have previously enjoyed.”

Kolman says that ULM shaped him as an athlete and a person and that coming back to Monroe to coach feels natural. “This program gave me so much, and now I want to give back and help the next generation reach their goals,” he added.

Sondre Stalheim, one of the captains of the water ski team, is a senior Kinesiology and Sports Management major from Oslo, Norway. He says he chose ULM because of the history and tradition of the water ski team and the chance to be part of one of the best collegiate programs in the world. “The combination of strong academics and the opportunity to compete at such a high level really made ULM the right fit for me compared to other schools,” said Stalheim.

Stalheim is excited about the hiring of Coach Kolman, calling him “a world-class skier with years of experience competing at the highest level.” “He understands what it takes to perform

under pressure, and he knows how to translate that into coaching,” Stalheim stated.

Kolman is thankful to start this new chapter as a coach and is grateful to his alma mater for believing in him. “Thank you to the university for their confidence in me and for their continued support of the water ski team. Thank you to the ULM Water Ski Booster Club for their continued support and to B & L Marine for sponsoring us with the best boat to train behind,” said Kolman.

Stalheim has high expectations for the season under Coach Kolman. “I think we’re going to see big improvements in how we train, prepare, and compete. He’s going to push us to raise our standards and bring a fresh perspective that will

“My number one goal is to bring the championship back to Monroe.”

– MARTIN KOLMAN

help us grow as athletes and as a team,” he said.

“My number one goal is to bring the championship back to Monroe,” Kolman added. “What excites me the most about coaching is part of the journey with the team—experiencing both the highs and the challenges together. In the end, a championship is simply the result of all of the hard work, dedication, and growth we put in along the way.”

The collegiate water ski season is split between the fall and the spring, with most of the major tournaments happening in September and October each year, leading up to the Collegiate Nationals in mid-October. In the spring, the team usually has two trainingfocused tournaments to prepare for the next fall and then All-Stars in mid-May. The team hosted their home tournament, Woody’s Classic, on September 20 on Bayou DeSiard. ■

photo by Molly Masters

BY HEATH HILL, WIS STUDIO MANAGER & ANN RODRIGUEZ, PH.D., COMMUNICATION PROGRAM DIRECTOR

WARHAWK INNOVATION STUDIOS

GIVES STUDENTS AN ENTRYWAY TO THE FILM INDUSTRY

Louisiana has long been a presence in the expansive, creative, and economically beneficial film industry. In recent years, its impact on Louisiana’s economy has accompanied significant growth in the film industry. This industry now extends to Monroe and to ULM’s campus where the Communication Program recently received a $750,000 grant from the Louisiana Entertainment Development Fund to create a new concentration in Film & Media Arts that will educate ULM students in the film industry, as well as the development of a professional studio that will not only support students’ film endeavors, but accommodate professional filmmakers’ projects as well.

Housed inside the Clarke M. Williams Innovation Campus, the studio space itself includes a 6,000 square foot production facility with a blackout sound stage, capable of being transformed into any set, a state-of-the-art editing suite, an audio recording booth, a film gear rental shop, and a variety of sets. An initiative supported by Louisiana Economic Development, the goal is to provide a knowledgeable, trained,

and professional local workforce who are already living in the area that will, in turn, attract professional film productions to the region, providing a boost to the local economy.

From ULM’s perspective, bringing professional filmmaking to the region allows its students the chance to gain practical industry experience while in school, and ultimately to find work in the film industry without having to move to New York, Atlanta, or Hollywood. “We are so appreciative for the state support we have received for this important initiative,” commented Dr. Ann Rodriguez, Director of the ULM communication program. “Our ULM students are a creative bunch and will take every advantage of the opportunities afforded them through this generous grant and the educational and career possibilities it creates.”

Christened Warhawk Innovation Studios (WIS) in 2024, the studio is poised to attract new productions that will serve as a gateway for Monroe and all of Northeast Louisiana to the film industry, as well as providing the crux of

ULM students' film and media arts education. Often, the best teacher is experience, and students will gain that experience by serving on these sets in a variety of capacities, from gaffers and camera operators to sound and production assistants, and offering post-production experience as well.

WIS operations also allow students opportunities for professional networking while honing their craft, and provide access to the studio to explore their own creative visions. This endeavor is planned as a true collaborative effort between the ULM communication program and industry professionals. The communication program, therefore, engages in ongoing outreach initiatives, developing partnerships with photographers, festivals, directors, content creators, and more.

This comes at an opportune time as Act 44, newly passed in Louisiana, will make bringing film productions to the state easier and more attractive than ever. Act 44 allows filmmakers to receive up to 40% in refundable tax credits. Additional incentives include bonus credits

Local high school students participated in the Filmmaking 101 Summer Camp at Warhawk Innovation Studios in July. The camp ended with the premeire of their short film Memento Mori in the Camille W. Currier Lagniappe Theatre in Bayou Point Event Center. The students and mentors are pictured at the premiere from L-R: Ryan Matthews, Catherine Coats, Kyle Gilmore, Kylie Daigle, Heath Hill, Braden Lofton, Rook Hargon, Amiyah McCray, Sam Heusel, Mae Operario, Brock Toth, Madison Spencer, Courtney Collins, Kodi Washington, Brendan McClain.

photos by Patrick Hargon

Memento Mori, the short film created by the high-school participants of the Filmmaking 101 Summer Camp.

for hiring local workers, using Louisiana-based scripts, and performing visual effects work within the state. These competitive advantages position Louisiana as “Hollywood South” and create a significant positive economic impact, building upon the already impressive 22,000 industry jobs created between 2020 and 2025.

As an accompaniment to the WIS production initiatives, the ULM Communication Program will also be spearheading the revival of an area film commission, which will provide further incentives for filmmakers to consider the Northeast Louisiana region for their work. Heath Hill, WIS Studio Manager, recently commented on the importance of having a local film commission. “Movies are about more than cameras and lights. They need construction workers, prop designers, location scouts, costume designers, caterers, and many other specialized services to bring movies to life. Monroe has the local experts equipped to handle these diverse needs, and a local film commission will connect movie productions with our qualified local vendors, making it easy for filmmakers to find and hire the support services they require right here in Monroe,” said Hill.

In support of the WIS effort, the ULM communication program is also in the process of starting a new registered student organization called the Warhawk Student Film Collective (WSFC) which will serve as a student focused and student run organization providing its members with a variety of professional opportunities, including career advice from industry leaders, internship opportunities, and film screenings to help students develop a critical eye for the medium. The WSFC also hopes to partner with local organizations to encourage community members to participate in the film screenings as well, thereby developing even more interest in film in our area.

In an attempt to further impact the readiness of a local workforce to support the film industry, the communication program has also committed to hosting an annual film summer camp for area high school students. With its inaugural Movie Making 101 Summer

Film Camp taking place in July of 2025, the ULM communication program introduced a handful of area high school students to the concept of filmmaking, informing them about the opportunities available all over Northeast Louisiana, exposing them to professional filmmakers who are currently working in the industry, and most importantly, showing them through hands-on training, that such a career is possible for them as well.

This summer, the Movie Making 101 campers started their two-week adventure by working together to develop an idea that would end up as their debut short film, Memento Mori. With the help of ULM faculty & staff mentors Dr. Pat McGuire, Heath Hill, Courtney Collins, and Brock Toth, and ULM Film & Media Arts students Ryan Matthews and Braden Lofton, along with input from current film industry professionals, the campers developed the characters and the storyline, wrote the script, handled the camera work for each scene, and edited the film.

The camp culminated with a red-carpet premiere event in the Camile W. Currier Lagniappe Theatre at Bayou Pointe on the ULM campus, where the campers premiered

their film for an audience of family, friends, and distinguished guests. The premiere event also included a Q & A session where the campers were able to discuss their creative processes and speak about the impact their camp experiences had on their higher education and career aspirations. Audience members were resoundingly impressed with the professional quality of the finished film product, but more so, with the poise and confidence with which the campers were able to discuss what they had learned during their time together, and the excitement that exuded from each and every camper as they talked about their futures in film.

Jennifer Malone, Director of Nontraditional Learning at ULM, who helped get the word out to the community about the camp, said, “So many high schoolers have no clue what careers exist that are related to a general topic like film or acting, and what the ULM communication program has done is opened a world of possibilities to them.”

Looking ahead, there are exciting growth opportunities for Warhawk Innovation Studios and ULM communication students in the film & media arts concentration, particularly as professional filmmakers learn more about the creative and production possibilities available in the northeast Louisiana region. As alumni emerge from ULM immediately prepared to enter the film industry, this region has the unique ability to establish itself as a film hub. The historical context of movie-making in our state positions the ULM communication program incredibly well to emerge victorious in preparing students for a creatively fulfilling career in film. Northeast Louisiana has unique filming locations and untapped cinematic potential. Warhawk Innovation Studios is poised to draw filmmakers to the area with skillfully trained students and a local workforce wellprepared to meet and exceed the demands of the creative industry that will drive economic development in the region and provide exciting career opportunities for years to come. ■

High school students participating in the Filmmaking 101 Summer Camp were able to see the entire process of making a film, from conceptualizing, to writing, shooting, and editing. They were assisted by ULM faculty and staff, as well as community mentors and local actors.

FIlmmaking 101 Summer Camp student Madison Spencer (left) gets a camera tutorial from volunteer mentor

Courtney Collins (right.)

“ Her broad leadership experience and strategic insight will significantly benefit the university as we continue our executive restructuring, ensuring thoughtful interdivisional integration and long-term success aligned with the needs of our students, faculty, and staff.”

BY ADAM MCDONALD

DR. ANNE CASE HANKS

NAMED ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT OF

ACADEMIC AFFAIRS

– DR. MICHELLE MCEACHARN

photo by Skylar Henry

As ULM began the process of leadership restructuring in the summer of 2025, it became clear to Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Michelle McEacharn that she needed to bring back the role of Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs. This integral administrative role would be necessary as the university navigated a new season. Dr. McEacharn found the perfect fit for the role in Dr. Anne Case Hanks, a 17-year veteran of ULM who most recently served as the Director of the School of Sciences in the College of Arts, Education, and Sciences.

“Dr. Case Hanks brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to academic excellence and innovation,” said McEacharn at the time of Case Hanks’ appointment in August. “Her broad leadership experience and strategic insight will significantly benefit the university as we continue our executive restructuring, ensuring thoughtful interdivisional integration and long-term success aligned with the needs of our students, faculty, and staff,” added McEacharn.

While the new role is one that Case Hanks is excited to fill, it’s not necessarily where she thought she would be when she began her career in higher education. She obtained her bachelor's degree in chemistry from the University of Toledo with hopes of becoming a doctor, but she realized the medical field was not in her future, and after a summer internship with the Department of Energy studying aerosols in the atmosphere, she pivoted to pursue her Ph.D. in earth and atmospheric sciences, which she earned from Georgia Tech in 2008 with a concentration in in atmospheric chemistry.

After earning her doctorate, Case Hanks knew she wanted to be a professor, which led her to ULM, home of the only atmospheric science program in the state of Louisiana. She quickly made an impact by helping revamp the program as a junior faculty member, as she wrote grants and published articles. “I sort of grew into my role in leadership because I’m a doer. If I saw there was a need, I would come up with a solution,” said Case Hanks.

She ascended into leadership first as the department head, and then the Associate Director, and eventually became the Director of the School of Sciences in 2017 . “That was a very great role because I learned how other disciplines functioned and worked. We had seven scientific disciplines in the school, and I got to see how they all related to each other and how they could work together. It was a great place for me to learn how to lead different areas with different needs before moving into my current role,” she stated.

“I like to see how we can do things more efficiently, how we can innovate and get people who may not even think their roles overlap to come together and solve problems.”

– DR. ANNE CASE HANKS

Throughout her time as an administrator, Case Hanks has continued to teach freshman and sophomore level classes that allow her to interact with a variety of students, which is an exciting part of the job for her. “I have this philosophy that any student can be successful in any of my classes. I look at myself as a coach, as someone who is encouraging and is going to help a student. It’s my job to help create relationships with students so they feel supported and are successful,” she said.

Case Hanks said that when she started out in higher education, she envisioned herself as a professor who would teach and conduct research, and didn’t see herself in administration. Now she has stepped into the biggest role of her career as Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs.

She says the new role allows her to have a wider perspective of the university and how all of its pieces fit together. “I like to see how we can do things more efficiently, how we can innovate and get people who may not even think their roles overlap to come together and solve problems,” she said. “Ultimately, every single one of us is here for students. We want to help them be the best version of themselves and give them the confidence and the skills they need so that when they go out into the workforce, they are representing ULM really well.”

In her new role, Case Hanks will oversee Dual Enrollment, Instructional Technology, the Office of the Registrar, the Office of Sponsored Programs and Research, and the Student Success Center. “Student success is exciting for me. How can we help students? If we get them here, we owe it to them to help them graduate,” she said.

As Case Hanks and McEacharn work together along with the rest of the Academic Affairs staff, they will continue to build the framework of how Academic Affairs will look and work under its new restructuring. “Once that structure is in place, we will start to look for those opportunities, innovations, and challenges. It doesn’t always necessarily take money to fix challenges; it could just be a need for realignment or approaching the problem in a different way,” said Case Hanks.

“We know change is going to be difficult. We want to lower the barriers by becoming more efficient and supporting faculty and staff in different ways, which ultimately will impact students. They are the heart of everything we do.”

Case Hanks is married to fellow educator Karari Hanks, who was named principal of Neville High School in Monroe in June 2025. They have one son, Julian, who began his freshman year as a mechanical engineering major at Louisiana Tech in fall 2025. ■

BY BRICE JONES, PH.D.

ULM SECURES KEY LEGISLATIVE SUPPORT IN 2025 SESSION

The 2025 regular session of the Louisiana Legislature brought significant and multifaceted support for ULM. While the completion of Sugar Hall’s long-awaited renovation gained considerable attention, the legislature’s commitment extended well beyond bricks and mortar. This year’s session resulted in substantial operational and academic support that will bolster ULM’s mission to provide high-quality education, advance healthcare training, and strengthen its overall fiscal health.

One of the most visible outcomes of the session was funding to complete the renovation of Sugar Hall. ULM initially sought $14 million in additional capital outlay funding, having received $16.7 million last year. After a careful reassessment, the project’s total cost was reduced to $25.7 million, leaving only $9 million needed. The legislature approved this amount, ensuring that construction will continue without interruption. The building, first opened in 1971 and once home to ULM’s

College of Pharmacy, is now being reimagined as a hub for health sciences. When renovations are complete in 2026, Sugar Hall will feature modern classrooms and laboratories for programs such as occupational therapy, dental hygiene, speech-language pathology, and radiologic technology. It will also house community-facing clinics, expanding healthcare access for the region while training the next generation of professionals.

Although the Sugar Hall project represents a milestone, ULM’s gains from the 2025 session are not limited to capital improvements. The legislature also allocated $2 million in supplemental funding for the College of Pharmacy, the only publicly supported pharmacy program in Louisiana. This funding will strengthen an academic unit that plays a critical role in addressing the state’s ongoing need for pharmacists, researchers, and healthcare leaders. With these resources, the college can expand opportunities for students, support faculty research, and ensure continued

The Northeast Louisiana Delegation Update Luncheon was hosted by the Monroe Chamber of Commerce on June 25, 2025. Pictured L-R: Rep Michael Echols, Monroe Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Roy Heatherly, Sen. Katrina Jackson-Andrews, ULM President Dr. Carrie L. Castille, Rep. Foy Gadberry, St. Francis Medical Center Regional VP Aimee Kane, Sen. Stewart Cathey, LDCC Chancellor Dr. Justin Hoggard, Rep. Pat Moore, First Methodist Monroe Exec. Pastor John O'Leary, Dean of VCOM-Louisiana Dr. Ray Morrison, Rep. Larry Bagley. Not pictured: Rep. Adrian Fisher, Sen. Jay Morris, Rep. Neil Riser, Rep. Francis Thompson, Rep. Chris Turner, and Sen. Glen Womack.

courtesy

photo by Skylar Henry

• Total Project Cost: $25.7 million

• Previously Received: $16.7 million

• Approved in 2025: $9 million

• Completion Target: 2026

• Purpose: Health sciences hub with classrooms, labs, and community clinics

College of Pharmacy Support

• Supplemental Funding: $2 million

• Focus: Expand student opportunities; Support faculty research; Address pharmacist shortages in rural Louisiana

Operational Support

• New Funding: $4.5 million

• Uses: Faculty/staff support; Technology infrastructure; Student success initiatives

Total New Legislative Funding in 2025: $15.5 MILLION

excellence in preparing graduates who often serve in rural and underserved areas.

In addition, ULM received $4.5 million in operational support. These dollars provide essential flexibility in addressing institutional priorities such as faculty and staff support, technology infrastructure, and student success initiatives. In higher education, reliable operational funding is as critical as capital projects. It helps stabilize the university’s financial foundation, ensuring ULM can invest in academic quality, student services, and competitive programs that attract and retain students. This operational support affirms the legislature’s recognition of ULM’s value to the region and the state as a whole.

Taken together, the $9 million in capital outlay for Sugar Hall, $2 million for the College of Pharmacy, and $4.5 million in operational support amount to a powerful demonstration of confidence in ULM. The funding touches nearly every dimension of the university: physical infrastructure, specialized academic programs, and day-to-day operations. Just as

importantly, it signals to students, faculty, alumni, and community partners that ULM is positioned for growth and sustainability.

As the university looks toward 2026 and beyond, the benefits of this legislative session will be visible in renovated facilities, strengthened academic programs, and improved support for students and faculty. For Monroe and the broader region, these investments mean more than campus improvements—they represent a stronger pipeline of skilled professionals and an enhanced resource for community well-being.

The 2025 legislative session was, in every sense, a pivotal one for ULM. While the transformation of Sugar Hall will stand as a symbol of progress, the broader array of funding ensures that ULM’s impact will continue to expand across disciplines and communities. With the legislature’s backing, the university is better equipped to fulfill its mission of changing lives and serving Louisiana. ULM is grateful to all members of its legislative delegation for providing this critical support. ■

Capital Outlay (Sugar Hall Renovation)

BY ADAM MCDONALD

GABRELLE MCLEOD CROWNED MISS LOUISIANA

ULM student Gabrelle McLeod was crowned Miss Louisiana 2025 on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the Monroe Civic Center. McLeod, a senior kinesiology and exercise science major from Vicksburg, Miss., competed as Miss Cane River. This was her second time competing at Miss Louisiana after placing in the top five in 2024 as Miss University of Louisiana Monroe.

“Congratulations to Gabrelle McLeod on being crowned Miss Louisiana. All of us at ULM are incredibly proud of her hard work and dedication. She is a true representation of the Warhawk spirit. I know that she will serve in her role with excellence,” said ULM President Dr. Carrie Castille.

In addition to the title of Miss Louisiana, McLeod also won the Overall Talent and Overall Fitness awards.

“I am over the moon, and I am ready to represent Louisiana with all that I have,” McLeod said in an interview with KNOETV immediately following her win.

McLeod’s platform as Miss Louisiana is “Head In the Game,” which aims to promote and encourage youth fitness and athletic participation across the state. Her efforts are designed not only to improve the health of Louisiana’s youth but also to break the barriers of fear when trying new things.

McLeod previously served as Miss University of Louisiana Monroe 2024, where she was an outstanding ambassador of the university throughout her reign. She also served as a member of the PREP staff, ULM’s freshman orientation team, as well as a member of the Black Student Union and Bayou La Belle choir.

“The University of Louisiana Monroe fuels my drive to lead boldly, uplift communities, and showcase the resilience, pride, and spirit that define the Warhawk legacy,” said McLeod.

McLeod represented Louisiana at the Miss America 2026 competition in Orlando, Fla., from Sept. 2-7, 2025. While she did not place in the competition, her participation served as a showcase for her passion and talent.

President Castille attended the competition in Orlando in support of McLeod. Following the competition, Castille said, “Gabrelle, you represented our state with unmatched pride, grace, and strength on the national stage, and we couldn’t be more proud. From your dazzling talent to your inspiring platform, you’ve shown the world what it means to lead with heart and purpose. I’m glad I could be here to see you shine. Your Warhawk family is beaming with pride!”

McLeod will continue her reign as Miss Louisiana through June 2026. ■

photo by Steven Palowsky, the official Miss Louisiana Photographer

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BY LAKE CARPENTER

FROM MISS ULM

Isigned up for Miss ULM for the scholarship opportunities, but it has come to be so much more than that. Being Miss ULM was a dream of mine, and that is because I thought it would change me as a person and prepare me for success–and it has. I am not the same girl who was crowned last fall; I am more confident, mature, and well-rounded because of this experience.

Serving as Miss ULM has stretched me in every direction. I’ve grown through the big moments, like hosting ULM’s Holiday Tree Lighting, emceeing ULM’s Got Talent, and representing ULM at Miss Louisiana. I have also grown just as much in the smaller moments, like speaking with the little kids who walk up to me or throwing the first pitch at the softball game. Every single appearance, no matter the size, helped shape me into the woman I am now.

One of the most rewarding and challenging moments of my year was speaking at ULM’s DREAMS Summer Camp to a group of middle schoolers. It was my longest speaking engagement to date, and I was admittedly nervous. But it turned out to be one of my proudest memories.

Getting to pour into our future generation and encourage them to chase their dreams reminded me why this title is so much more than a crown. It’s about service. It's about showing up.

One of my greatest passions is normalizing different family structures through my community service initiative, “We Are Family.” This message is deeply personal to me, and I’ve had so many people share how seen and understood they’ve felt because of it. Their words have meant everything. I found my family at ULM, and it means the world to be able to share that and encourage others to find the same during their time here. Remember this: family doesn’t have to look traditional. What matters is that they love and support you through your journey.

Miss ULM is a preliminary to Miss Louisiana through the Miss America Organization—the largest scholarship provider for young women in the country. I’m honored to return to the stage, this time as Miss Louisiana Watermelon Festival, but also as a former Miss ULM and proud ULM student. Representing this university at Miss Louisiana has been a true joy, and I’m grateful to carry the values of this campus with me every time I step onstage.

In every moment of this year, I’ve felt supported by the incredible faculty, staff, and students who make ULM what it is. I’m grateful to every professor and mentor who helped shape me. Not just as a titleholder, but as a future pharmacist and most importantly as a woman who believes in her own voice.

To the next Miss ULM: cherish every single day. It goes faster than you think. Wear the crown with pride, serve with your heart, and love this university with everything you have.

To ULM: thank you. I will carry this year with me for the rest of my life. ■

photo by Skylar Henry

BY VINCENT E. WINSTON II

FROM MR. ULM

Before competing in this pageant, I was seldom involved on campus. But winning this title pushed me out of my comfort zone and showed me how rewarding it is to get involved, to connect with others, and to be part of something bigger than myself. Now, I cannot imagine my college experience without it.

This past year has been filled with growth, learning, and self-discovery. Representing my peers and this university has been an honor beyond words. Whether it was standing in front of a crowd in my sash or simply laughing with friends in the quad, I have been reminded that leadership is not about being perfect, it is about being present.

Some of my favorite memories came from PREP sessions with incoming first-year students. Those wide-eyed new Warhawks reminded me so much of myself, excited, nervous, and unsure of what the future would hold. Being able to welcome them, ease their nerves, and let my personality shine in those moments reminded me why I love this campus so much. ULM is not just a university; it is a family.

As a Political Science junior, I have had the privilege of serving in many roles: President of the Career Ambassadors, a 31 Ambassador, and Peer Leader. Each position taught me something unique, whether it was professional growth, teamwork, or how to survive on three hours of sleep during homecoming week. These experiences shaped me not just as a student but as a leader.

One of my proudest endeavors has been my community service initiative, or CSI: Cookies and Conversations. I will admit, part of the idea was just an excuse to bake (because who can say no to cookies?), but the heart of it was always about creating safe spaces to talk about mental health. Over time, I have seen how a cookie and an open ear can spark conversations that truly matter. If you ask me, it is proof that sometimes the smallest gestures carry the biggest impact.

None of this journey would have been possible without the people who poured into me. To my supportive parents and family, thank you for being my foundation and cheering me on through every high and low. To my friends, thank you for keeping me grounded, laughing with me, and sometimes at me, but always standing by my side. To the office staff in Career and Student Development, you have been mentors, encouragers, and the ones reminding me to balance ambition with self-care. To my titleholder directors, thank you for guiding me through this experience, keeping me focused, and reminding me to represent this title with pride and purpose. And a special thank you to Dr. Valerie Fields, whose guidance, wisdom, and unwavering support made an immeasurable difference in my journey.

Though my reign as Mr. ULM 2025 will eventually come to an end, my involvement on campus will not. I plan to continue pouring into this university, serving in leadership, and uplifting my fellow Warhawks. This chapter may be closing, but my story here is far from over.

To future Warhawks, my advice is simple: say yes to opportunities, even if they scare you, do not be afraid to stand out, and when in doubt, bring cookies. College is short, but the memories and lessons will last a lifetime. ■

photo by Skylar Henry

How far would you travel to see your favorite team play? For one Warhawk baseball fan, the answer is around 90,000 miles. Bob Fenn, 91, is a resident of Winnsboro, La. Since 1992, Fenn has missed fewer ULM Warhawk baseball games than he can count on two hands. “About nine games in the last 33 years,” recounted Fenn when asked how many he had missed since he began making ULM baseball a way of life. To put Fenn’s attendance record in baseball terms, he’s batting around .991 when it comes to being there to see his beloved Warhawks play at Lou St. Amant Field, consistently making the 90-mile round trip from his home in Winnsboro for about 30 home games each season.

“I guess I’ve got a disease,” joked Fenn, noting that he can’t really put his finger on what keeps him coming back. In an age where nothing stays the same for very long, Fenn’s loyalty to Warhawk baseball is a rarity worth celebrating.

Seated in a barber’s chair in a small room inside “The Lou” about an hour before the first pitch of the Warhawks’ game against Louisiana Tech, Fenn tells the story of how an athletically inclined young boy from rural Mississippi ended up becoming one of the most prolific sports fans in the area.

Bob Fenn was born on October 19, 1934, in Amite County, Miss. His father was a sharecropper and Fenn’s family regularly moved throughout his childhood based on where his father was working. The middle child of seven, Bob, along with his siblings, was also expected to help in the fields in addition to his schoolwork. This learned and lived work ethic served Bob well as he grew into his teenage years and began to excel in athletics.

Fenn is a graduate of Mars Hill High School, where he played baseball and basketball, becoming a standout in both sports. Fenn says his favorite sport was whatever was in season. He was never able to play football in high school because Mars Hill didn’t have a team.

90,000 miles

Never one to let the matter of distance get between him and a good sporting event, Fenn and his friends would hitchhike 15 miles to and from nearby Liberty, Miss., to watch football games. This trend continued into junior college as Fenn would hitchhike to away football games and then stowaway on the team bus to get back home after the game.

Fenn’s baseball and basketball talents would land him a full scholarship to attend Southwest Mississippi Junior College (now Southwest Mississippi Community College) in nearby Summit, Miss. Attending from 1953 to 1955, Fenn made an impact in both sports, and in 2001, he was inducted into the Southwest Mississippi Community College

BY ADAM MCDONALD

Bob Fenn was an athlete in his youth and lifelong coach and fan of many sports.

Hall of Fame for both baseball and basketball.

Following his time at Southwest Mississippi, Fenn considered other options to continue his athletic career, including a basketball tryout at ULM (then Northeast Louisiana State College). Though he enjoyed his visit to Monroe, it was ultimately not to be. He ended up back in Mississippi, this time at William Carey University in Hattiesburg, where he played two seasons of basketball and one season of baseball. Once his college playing career ended, Fenn spent some time in the National Guard and then landed in southeastern Louisiana working for Shell Oil.

It was there while living in Morgan City, La., that Fenn’s life changed forever when he met a young lady named Carolyn Albritton from Winnsboro, La. Carolyn was new in town, working as a school teacher after graduating from NLSC (now ULM), where she was also a cheerleader.

After a short courtship, they were engaged to be married in June 1962, but when Ole Miss was selected to play in the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, the Fenns’ wedding plans were accelerated. Bob said he could not miss seeing Ole Miss in the Cotton Bowl (“I would have walked if I had to,” he noted), and Carolyn wanted to join him. In a foreshadowing of just how much this couple would grow to love traveling for sporting events, they were married on December 30, 1961, and included the Cotton Bowl in their honeymoon plans. The Fenns returned home to Morgan City with $2.43 between them as they began their family, which eventually included three children.

Bob Fenn’s love of athletics continued as he went on to serve as assistant recreation director for St. Mary Parish, coaching youth baseball for many years, often taking his allstar teams deep into the Southern Regionals and once to the Colt League World Series.

The Fenn family had always hoped to return to North Louisiana, but it took until 1988 for them to make the move. Carolyn finished out her career as a public school teacher in Franklin Parish. Since Bob could never stay away from baseball for too long, he became a regular fixture at ULM (then NLU) baseball games in 1992. Early on, he became part of the Coach’s Committee, a booster club that cheered at every game and encouraged community participation with the baseball team.

Part of being a baseball fan is giving the visiting team a hard time whenever possible. The Coach’s Committee had a tradition of tying an old boot to a rope and throwing it on the field whenever the opposing team made an error or “booted” the ball. The boot toss was always accompanied by shouts of “Boot!” Fenn contends that he was able to throw the boot as far as anybody. The tradition of the boot ▶

His wife Carolyn (right), was a ULM (then NLSC) alumna and cheerleader.

faded over the years, but it surely still rings in the memories of a generation of ULM opponents.

From their days as the NLU Indians to the ULM Indians to the ULM Warhawks, Fenn has stuck with the ULM baseball team through thick and thin. He has attended somewhere between 900 and 1,000 games over the last 33 years at Lou St. Amant Field. That’s not to mention the numerous road games he’s traveled to see.

High on the list of memories for Fenn is the 1999 season when future Milwaukee Brewers ace Ben Sheets was on the mound for the Indians. Sheets set the single game record for strikeouts with an astounding 20 Ks in a 6-2 victory over perennial rival Louisiana Tech. Fenn noted that any win over Louisiana Tech is a good win. (Note: On the night of this interview, the Warhawks defeated the Bulldogs 8-3.)

Just a week later, ULM’s career strikeout leader Kenny Holubec got the win, and Sheets recorded the save as the Indians defeated the LSU Tigers in Monroe, 6-5.

Another high point was the 2012 season, when the Warhawks clinched their first-ever Sun Belt Conference championship.

Jeff Schexnaider was the head coach of the Warhawks from 2006 to 2014. Schexnaider says he would visit with Fenn after almost every game. “I realized early on that if you go talk to Mr. Fenn after the game, be ready, because he’s going to be honest and tell you how it is,” said Schexnaider. “I laughed and I told him, ‘I love your honesty, because you’re here every day. I take it to heart, and I respect

“He’s a great human being, and the most loyal ULM baseball supporter of all time, most likely. He did a good job of making sure that he spoke to everyone. They knew him by name. He probably remembers every player from every year. He tries to make everybody feel at home in Monroe.”

– MICHAEL HARVEY

it.’ He’s a great fan for ULM and a great fan for baseball.”

Fenn’s son Mark, a local pastor, states that one of the most impactful elements of Bob’s long-lasting support of Warhawk baseball is the number of connections that he has made with the players over the years. “They know where he’s sitting, and they’ll come by and say hello. He has gotten wedding invitations from guys he would have never known other than him supporting them and this team,” said Mark about his father.

“I meet just about every new player. I make it my business to go talk to them and thank them for coming to ULM,” said Bob. “He knows from his playing days what it’s like to be away from home and need some support,” said Mark.

Michael Harvey played catcher for the NLU Indians from 1994 to 1998, earning All-Southland Conference honors in 1996 and 1997. He’s one of the many players who grew to know and love Mr. Fenn.

“He’s a great human being, and the most loyal ULM baseball supporter of all time, most likely,” said Harvey. “He did a good job of making sure that he spoke to everyone. They knew him by name. He probably remembers every player from every year. He tries to make everybody feel at home in Monroe,” added Harvey.

Bob and Carolyn Fenn’s love of ULM athletics was not just limited to baseball. They could regularly be seen tailgating at ULM football and basketball games as well. ULM has continued to be a family affair for the Fenns, with Carolyn, one daughter, one

daughter-in-law, and three grandchildren graduating from the university.

Bob and Carolyn’s passion for baseball also extended to Omaha, Neb., home of the College World Series. The Fenns made the trip to Omaha for the World Series every year from 2004 to 2019, except 2013, when a medical issue made him miss the trip. Over the years, they developed friendships with

other tailgaters from across the country who came together around their love of baseball. Fenn likened it to a family reunion each year. Even as Bob entered his 80s, the tradition continued with Mark taking the wheel for the annual family trip.

Carolyn passed away in December 2023, just a few days short of her and Bob’s 62nd anniversary. Though the loss has affected Bob

profoundly, he has still continued his tradition of supporting the Warhawks and hopes to keep taking in every home game from his lawn chair down the first base line as long as he is able.

“It’s entertainment for me,” says Fenn of his many years at the ballpark. “I could just sit out here and watch them take infield.”

If Bob Fenn has a disease, maybe it’s one worth catching. ■

Fenn can always be found in his lawn chair down the first base line. On the night of his first pitch, he was joined by family members.

Pictured L-R: daughter and ULM alum Stacey Fenn Grieme, granddaughter and ULM alum Blair Grieme, Bob Fenn, daughter-in-law Anita Fenn, son Scott Fenn, granddaughter-in-law Adilia Fenn, son Mark Fenn.

Fenn poses with the 2025 Warhawk baseball team. He was given the honor of throwing out the first pitch before the game on May 15, 2025.

photo courtesy of ULM Athletics

BY ADAM MCDONALD

ULM WIND ENSEMBLE PERFORMS AT HISTORIC CARNEGIE HALL

photo courtesy of Manhattan Concert Productions

The ULM Wind Ensemble performed at the historic Carnegie Hall in New York City on June 24, 2025. The ULM Wind Ensemble was one of four featured performers in the grand finale of Manhattan Concert Productions’ 2025 season, titled “Songs of Peace, Hope, and Unity.”

“I’m so grateful that I got to experience this with our students and faculty,” said Dr. Nicholas Bratcher, Director of the ULM School of Visual and Performing Arts and Conductor of the ULM Wind Ensemble. “As a teacher, it’s a wonderful feeling, and honestly, a goal, to see and hear the growth of your students,” added Bratcher, noting that the Wind Ensemble received a standing ovation from each tier of the hall.

The ULM Wind Ensemble currently includes 44 students. In addition to Bratcher, ULM music faculty members Dr. Allen Parrish (guest conductor), Dr. Scot Humes (guest soloist), and Dr. Kathryn Irwin (percussion coordinator) also accompanied the students to New York.

The seeds of the Wind Ensemble’s performance at Carnegie Hall were planted in November 2023 when Dr. Bratcher submitted a video audition following the ensemble’s fall concert. After being accepted for the 2025 summer concert series, fundraising efforts began to ensure that the students could make the trip to New York. Through a variety of private donations and fundraisers hosted by the ULM Foundation, a total of $90,000 was raised. Because of the collaborative effort, students paid

“Watching our students rise to that moment, knowing how far they’ve come and how hard they’ve worked, was one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career.”

– DR. NICHOLAS BRATCHER

nothing out of pocket for the trip.

Emma Babcock is an instrumental music performance major from Pineville, La., and plays saxophone in the ULM Wind Ensemble. “As a musician, this experience was a full-circle moment for me, fulfilling a special dream— not just mine, but one shared by many of my colleagues. My favorite part was the moment

after we finished performing, seeing hundreds of people applauding us. It made me realize that all the hours of practice, hard work, rehearsals, and school that led me to this point were truly worth it,” said Babcock.

Christopher Bickley is a clarinet player in the ULM Wind Ensemble and an instrumental music performance major from West Monroe, La. “The experience of playing in Carnegie Hall means that all the years I have poured into my instrument have truly paid off, and that it was worth every second. My favorite part of getting to play at Carnegie Hall was walking across the stage as a three-tier audience was cheering for me as I took a bow,” said Bickley.

The Wind Ensemble performed a halfhour of music on the Carnegie Hall stage that included three works. The first was “Selections from Porgy and Bess” by George Gershwin, guest conducted by Dr. Allen Parrish. The second work was a two-movement piece titled “Come Sunday” by Omar Thomas. The closing piece was Scott McAllister’s “Black Dog: A Solo Rhapsody for Clarinet and Wind Ensemble,” with featured soloist Dr. Scot Humes.

“Professionally, it’s always a great thing to perform on one of the biggest stages in the world,” said Bratcher, with this being his second opportunity to conduct at Carnegie Hall. “For my colleagues Dr. Parrish and Dr. Humes, it would mark their Carnegie debut, and this performance wouldn’t have been possible without their work and efforts,” he added.

Bratcher says the experience meant so much to him because of the impact he saw it have on the students, stating that for many of them, New York was as far away from Louisiana as they had ever been. Bratcher videoed the students’ initial reaction when they walked into the hall for sound check, catching the awed expressions on their faces. “For me, that was one of the most rewarding parts of the trip,” said Bratcher.

In their limited downtime in New York, the students got to take in some sights of the city, including Times Square, and tickets to Chicago on Broadway, provided by the concert promoters.

Bratcher says the members of the ULM Wind Ensemble will continue to strive for new heights in the coming year. “I feel like the baseline has been established, and I always try to challenge them with pieces that push beyond the boundaries of traditional wind band repertoire. The ULM Wind Ensemble is poised for great things in the future, and I can’t wait for us to share those things with the campus and community,” said Bratcher. ■

The ULM Wind Ensemble performed in the legendary venue in June as part of its 2025 summer concert series. The Wind Ensemble was chosen on the strength of their audition tape in 2023 and prepared for the performance for more than a year.

BY ADAM MCDONALD

DR.

MICHELLE MCEACHARN NAMED PROVOST AND VICE PRESIDENT

FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS

photo by Skylar Henry

Michelle McEacharn, DBA, has been named Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs for the University of Louisiana Monroe. McEacharn has served in the role as interim since June 2025, and her appointment was made permanent by ULM President Dr. Carrie L. Castille on October 13, 2025. McEacharn was selected for the role following a national search.

"I am thrilled to announce the permanent appointment of Dr. Michelle McEacharn as Provost and Vice President for Academic

“ULM is my home and my heart. It is truly my honor to work each and every day for the ULM family in making sure everyone sees the value, quality, impact, and beauty of ULM and to continue to move the university forward.”

– DR. MICHELLE MCEACHARN

Affairs at ULM,” said ULM President Dr. Carrie L. Castille. “Dr. McEacharn has already made an impact serving as interim, and I am proud to work alongside her as we continue to better this university. Her years of experience and deep institutional knowledge of ULM will be invaluable to me and the entire university as she serves in this role.”

Prior to serving as interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, McEacharn served as Dean of the College of Business and Social Sciences for four years, and she is also

the Susan and William Banowsky Endowed Chair and Professor of Accounting.

“I am humbled by the trust and confidence that President Castille and the Search Committee have placed in me in my selection as the next Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs,” said Dr. McEacharn. “More so, the support and encouragement I have received from the deans, faculty, staff, and students has been energizing, uplifting, and extraordinary—that support has been humbling. ULM is my home and my heart. It is truly my honor to work each and every day for the ULM family in making sure everyone sees the value, quality, impact, and beauty of ULM and to continue to move the university forward.

McEacharn’s service to ULM began in 1989 as an instructor in the accounting program. She then progressed to assistant professor, associate professor, and attained full professorship in 2003. She has held many administrative titles. including Department Head, School Director, and Associate Dean, before becoming Dean of the College of Business and Social Sciences in 2021.

McEacharn earned her Bachelor of Business Administration and Master of Business Administration at ULM and her Doctor of Business Administration from Louisiana Tech. She is a Certified Public Accountant, Certified Internal Auditor, and Chartered Global Management Accountant.

“Beyond her academic contributions, Dr. McEacharn’s service to ULM and the broader community is extraordinary,” said Dr. Castille. “She has chaired numerous university committees, participated in accreditation visits as a peer review team member and chair, and served on boards for BRIP, Strauss Theater, the Society of Louisiana CPAs, and the Northeast Louisiana Cancer Foundation. Her dedication to accounting education has earned her the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Society of Louisiana CPAs, among other prestigious accolades.”

McEacharn is a first-generation college graduate, earning her bachelor’s degree after originally working at ULM as staff in the Controller’s Office and then Human Resources/Payroll. In 2022, she established the McPhearson/McEacharn Opportunity Scholarship to support non-traditional ULM students majoring in accounting.

“I believe that Dr. McEacharn is the ideal person for this job. This appointment is welldeserved, and her leadership will undoubtedly guide ULM to even greater achievements,” said Dr. Castille. ■

Camile Currier honored with naming of Bayou Pointe Theatre

Employees and friends of the University of Louisiana Monroe from past and present gathered on Friday, September 12, 2025, to celebrate the naming of the “Camile W. Currier Lagniappe Theatre” in ULM’s Bayou Pointe Event Center. Mr. Currier served ULM for 50 years in various roles before retiring as Vice President for Student Affairs in 2020. A plaque that will hang on the wall outside the theatre was unveiled at the ceremony.

“I think ‘grateful’ is the word that I’m looking for,” said Currier as he spoke at the ceremony. “I’m so grateful that I was able to work at my alma mater for 50 years. I’m so grateful to my colleagues, who, without their help and assistance, we would have never been able to accomplish what we did. I am truly honored by the recognition you’ve given me today,” he continued.

Guest speakers at the event included ULM

President Dr. Carrie Castille, former ULM

President Dr. Nick Bruno, former ULM Dean of Student Affairs Charles “Charlie Mac” McDonald, and longtime university employee and colleague of Currier, Treina Kimble.

“Your vision and your leadership have left an indelible mark on our entire campus,” said President Castille in her remarks to Currier and the crowd. “The renaming of this theatre is not

merely a change of name, but a celebration of your legacy. Let this serve as a constant reminder of the impact that one individual can have on our institution,” she continued. The naming of the theatre was initiated by former ULM President Dr. Nick Bruno prior to his retirement in 2020. In a letter to the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors requesting the naming, Bruno stated, “During his tenure, Camile was directly involved or part of the planning, and in some cases securing funding for the following facilities: The Activity Center, University Park, Masur Hall and Madison Hall renovations, Student Union Ballroom renovations, student parking garage, Health and Counseling Center, Ski Team House, SGA Dock and Hammocks on the Bayou, Food Bank located in the Activity Center, and Bayou Pointe Event Center. Camile is highly regarded at the university as well as in the Northeast Louisiana community, and he has served as an outstanding leader at the University of Louisiana Monroe.”

In his closing remarks at the ceremony, Currier said, “I am so proud of my university and our students, and I truly believe our administration will continue to move our university forward and that ULM’s brightest days are still ahead."

ULM TRIO SSS program receives $1.3 million grant from U.S. Department of Education

The University of Louisiana Monroe is among the institutions chosen by the U.S. Department of Education to receive a TRIO grant for Student Support Services (SSS). The University will receive $272,364 per year for five years, totaling $1,361,820, to enhance student support and assist first-generation, lowincome students and students with disabilities in achieving success and graduation. ULM has been a recipient of the federally funded TRIO SSS grant to support traditional and non-traditional students since 2015.

“We are incredibly honored to continue to serve students and support them on their way to a first bachelor’s degree at the University of Louisiana Monroe. A significant number of ULM students, as well as many faculty and staff members, are first-generation college students. As a first-generation college graduate, I am incredibly proud of the TRIO SSS and their commitment to serving ULM students,” said ULM President Dr. Carrie L. Castille.

The ULM TRIO SSS program will work toward increasing the retention, good academic standing, and graduation rates of eligible students and fostering an institutional climate that is supportive of low-income, first-generation, and students with disabilities. Additionally, ULM will provide flexible and affordable pathways to acquiring knowledge and skills while promoting the development of skills that prepare students to be informed, thoughtful, and productive individuals and citizens.

“This grant allows ULM to deepen our commitment to ensuring that all students— regardless of background—can thrive academically and personally,” said Dr. Catherine Estis, ULM TRIO Executive Director. “Student Support Services helps level the playing field and equips our students with the tools and confidence to graduate and lead.”

Camile Currier (left) and ULM President Dr. Carrie L. Castille (right) unveil the plaque for the “Camile W. Currier Lagniappe Theater” that will hang outside the theatre room in Bayou Pointe Event Center.

photo by Skylar Henry

Dr. Alexis Horace wins 2025 Agent of Change award from the University of Louisiana System

Dr. Alexis Horace, a professor in the University of Louisiana Monroe College of Pharmacy, received the 2025 Agent of Change Award from the University of Louisiana System on March 28, 2025, at the annual For Our Future Conference.

Molly Jeter McCullar(left), Director of Ticket Operations for ULM Athletics and co-founder of the Northeast Louisiana Music Trail, speaks at the unveiling ceremony on April 3, 2025. She is joined by Miss ULM 2025 Lake Carpenter (center) and former ULM Dean of Student Affairs Charles H. “Charlie Mac” McDonald (right).

Northeast Louisiana Music Trail

Historic Marker placed at FantEwing Coliseum

The Northeast Louisiana Music Trail placed its 22nd historical marker at Fant-Ewing Coliseum on the ULM Campus on April 3, 2025. The marker is placed at the corner of Northeast Dr. and Bon Aire Dr., in front of the Coliseum.

ULM Educators Rising and School of Education lead service initiative to support Northeast Louisiana families

The University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) Educators Rising Collegiate Chapter and the ULM School of Education successfully led a community-driven service initiative, collecting over 1,000 donated items valued at $4,000 and raising $340 in monetary contributions to support children and families in need across Northeast Louisiana.

This impactful effort was made possible by 40 dedicated volunteers who served both on campus and at The Center for Children and Families, demonstrating ULM’s commitment to service learning and community engagement.

The UL System Agent of Change Award recognizes faculty or staff who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision in driving transformational change that benefits their university’s culture and community. The award celebrates those who go above and beyond to inspire and enact positive, impactful change. Through their efforts, they exemplify the impact that higher education has in shaping lives and creating a better future for Louisiana.

Dr. Horace is a tenured professor in the School of Clinical Sciences in the ULM College of Pharmacy, currently providing direct patient care in New Orleans. She is also the project director for ULM HERO (Harm Reduction Education and Referral for Opioid Overdose Reversal). Horace received three nominations for the award and was selected as the winner by a committee composed of UL System employees.

According to the UL System, the nominators discussed Horace’s exceptional leadership and vision in connection with the ULM HERO program. Nominators suggested that the program, under Dr. Horace’s guidance, achieved transformational change through evidencebased education for first responders, scalable impact and progress, community-centric outreach, and student first responder training.

“At its core, ULM HERO is about harm reduction, education, and outreach— empowering first responders, students, and community members with the tools and knowledge to prevent opioid overdose deaths and improve the health of underserved communities across Louisiana. I’m honored to be a part of this great program,” said Horace.

The Northeast Louisiana Music Trail was founded in 2023 by Enoch Doyle Jeter and Molly Jeter McCullar and “seeks to honor the rich musical heritage of Northeast Louisiana by recognizing and celebrating the musicians, music, places, stories and people who make up this special area of the world,” according to its mission statement.

McCullar is the Director of Ticket Operations for ULM Athletics and works out of Fant-Ewing Coliseum. “Not only do I love the facility as my base of operations for work, and for the memories I have of attending concerts and games here over the years, I am also so excited to commemorate the Coliseum as a venue on the NELA Music Trail. Both ULM and our music trail project are dear to my heart,” she said.

The majority of concerts, speaker series events, comedy shows, and other events hosted at Fant-Ewing Coliseum over the years have been sponsored and hosted by the Campus Activities Board, formerly known as the Union Board, and in conjunction with Spring Fever week activities.

Charles H. McDonald was a special guest speaker during the unveiling ceremony. “Charlie Mac” as he is affectionately known, was a Coordinator of Student Activities, Director of Student Development, and Dean of Student Affairs before retiring from ULM in 2002. During his time at the university, he was also the advisor for the Union Board for 24 years and is directly responsible for creating and mentoring the Union Board as well as developing the Spring Fever tradition on campus.

In addition to the donation drive, two service-learning workshops were held to educate ULM students, faculty, and staff on the demographics and challenges faced by children and families in need throughout the region. These workshops provided valuable insights and fostered a deeper understanding of service-based education.

“The generosity and dedication displayed by our students, faculty, and community partners highlight the power of education and service working hand in hand,” said ULM Associate Professor of Education Dr. Amy Weems, who is the Adviser of the ULM Educators Rising Chapter. “This initiative not only provided tangible support to families but also reinforced the importance of civic engagement in shaping future educators,” added Weems.

ULM hosts DREAMS Summer Camp for local middle school students

The University of Louisiana Monroe partnered with the Let Us Dream organization to host the inaugural DREAMS Summer Camp, sponsored by St. Francis Health, on campus from July 21-25, 2025. DREAMS (Desire, Readiness, Empowerment, Action, and Mastery for Success) is a transformative three-year mentorship program designed to foster personal, social, and leadership development. The DREAMS Summer Camp hosted 25 sixth and seventh-grade students from the Ouachita Parish and Monroe City school districts.

Developed by ULM Alumni, Dr. Fr. Lijo Thomas, this evidence-based program pairs underperforming middle school students with mentors from college and senior adults in the local community. Focused on mentoring, modeling, and motivating, these mentors help guide, inspire, and empower young participants, supporting their growth and resilience. The program includes eight days of physical intervention spread throughout the year—five ▶

ULM Professor of Pharmacy Dr. Alexis Horace receives the 2025 Agent of Change award from UL System President Dr. Rick Gallot.

photo by Joseph Savoie

photo courtesy of Anne McKisson/UL System

days of summer camp, followed by three followup sessions in the fall, winter, and spring.

"The most significant part of camp for me was watching lives be impacted and changed through the power of mentorship,” said Kristin Chandler, DREAMS Camp Director and Executive Director of Career & Student Development at ULM. “Both the mentees and the mentors learned more about themselves and each other through activities that focused on values, goals, self-esteem, perseverance, managing attitudes and emotions, and empowering oneself. I also very much enjoyed watching the senior mentors interact with and encourage the college and middle school students,” added Chandler.

The DREAMS Summer Camp was made possible through the generosity of title sponsor St. Francis Health, as well as one other anonymous title sponsor. Lunches for the week were donated by the ULM Wesley Foundation, Chi Alpha, North Monroe Baptist Church, and Chris Lewis, owner of Coney Island Connection.

Dr. Ashanti Jones wins distinguished service award from state association

Dr. Ashanti Jones, Assistant Professor and Associate Program Director of the Marjorie S. Price Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at ULM, was recently awarded the Dave Warner Distinguished Service Award by the Louisiana chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). The award was presented to Dr. Jones on August 23, 2025, during the APTA Louisiana Annual Meeting in Baton Rouge, La.

“I am deeply humbled and honored to receive the 2025 Dave Warner Distinguished Service Award

from APTA Louisiana,” said Dr. Jones. “To be recognized by my peers at the state level is incredibly meaningful, because it affirms that the work I’ve devoted to advancing physical therapy, supporting students, and serving my community has made a lasting impact. It also reminds me that leadership is not about titles or positions, but it’s about service, advocacy, and lifting others up along the way.”

The Dave Warner Distinguished Service Award is one of APTA Louisiana’s highest honors. It is presented to an individual who has made outstanding professional contributions to APTA Louisiana and who has

had a lasting impact on peers, the community, and the profession of physical therapy. Dr. Jones was nominated for the award by Dr. Lisa VanHoose, Director of the Marjorie S. Price Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. “Dr. Jones embodies the spirit of excellence that defines our program,” said Dr. VanHoose. “Through her dedication, she demonstrates the profound impact that service can have, not only on the profession but on communities in need. Her work reflects the program’s vision of preparing practitioners who embrace service as a calling and commit to leaving the world better than they found it.”

ULM and LDCC signed an education partnership agreement on July 31, 2025. Pictured L-R: LDCC Dean of Instruction Frank Boone, LDCC Vice Chancellor of External Affairs and Public Relations Nathan Hall, LDCC Chancellor Dr. Justin Hoggard, ULM President Dr. Carrie L. Castille, ULM Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Michelle McEacharn, ULM Dean of the College of Arts, Education, and Sciences Dr. John Pratte.

ULM and LDCC sign education partnership agreement

The University of Louisiana Monroe and Louisiana Delta Community College (LDCC) signed an education partnership agreement at a press conference on July 31, 2025. The agreement provides a streamlined pathway for students who earn any Associate of Applied Science degree at LDCC to transfer to ULM and complete a Bachelor of Applied Sciences in organizational leadership.

"One of the goals of my presidency is that ULM will be a model for how regional universities uplift entire communities. I can’t think of a better way of uplifting Northeast Louisiana than linking arms with a strong partner like LDCC and providing the best educational opportunities for the students we serve,” said ULM President Dr. Carrie L. Castille. “This agreement will not only strengthen both of our

institutions, but it will also have lasting impacts on the workforce of our region.”

Both institutions are committed to seamless transfer so students may successfully complete their academic goals. The agreement ensures that each institution serves the needs of students by providing them with appropriate and accurate transfer and advising information.

“This opportunity to collaborate with the University of Louisiana Monroe to build stronger pathways for student success is exceptional. This opens new doors for students to continue their education and strengthen their skills through the Bachelor of Applied Sciences,” said LDCC Chancellor Dr. Justin Hoggard. “This is more than a partnership; this is a strategic and intentional investment in the future of Northeast Louisiana’s educational workforce.”

photo by Srdjan Marjanovic

photo courtesy of Dr. Ashanti Jones

Dr. Ashanti Jones, Associate Program Director of the Marjorie S. Price Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at ULM (left), poses with APTA Louisiana President Dr. Karl Kleinpeter. Jones was presented with the Dave Warner Distinguished Service Award in Baton Rouge on August 23.

BY ADAM MCDONALD

ULM

RELEASES UPDATED BRAND GUIDELINES HIGHLIGHTING

LEGACY OF THE WARHAWKS

“As we near our 100year anniversary as an institution, we reflect on everything this university has been and what it can be. Our brand is strong because of our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners who help us carry the spirit of ULM, honoring tradition and embracing what’s to come.”

– PRESIDENT CARRIE L. CASTILLE

The University of Louisiana Monroe has released an updated Brand Guide, which establishes the standard for the university’s brand and visual identity. This edition marks the first major update of the ULM Brand Guide since 2018 and focuses on realigning the ULM brand with the story of the P-40 Warhawk aircraft.

The updated Brand Guide summarizes 10 years of work by ULM’s Office of Marketing and Communications that included extensive research, user interaction, and collaboration among all university stakeholders (current and former), including the U.S. military, university leadership, students and student-athletes, coaches, historians, and alumni.

The new edition of the ULM Brand Guide introduces several new visual assets inspired by the P-40 Warhawk, the plane flown by General Claire Lee Chennault’s Flying Tigers of the American Volunteer Group in the Second Sino-Japanese War in China prior to WWII. Chennault is a Northeast Louisiana native whose connection to the area was a contributing factor to ULM selecting “Warhawks” as its new mascot in 2006.

“At ULM, we are proud to be Warhawks. We have a rich history and a bright future. As we near our 100-year anniversary as an institution, we reflect on everything this university has been and what it can be. Our brand is strong because of our students, faculty, staff, alumni,

and community partners who help us carry the spirit of ULM, honoring tradition and embracing what’s to come. This new Brand Guide ensures that we move forward as one brand, one voice, one university,” said ULM President Dr. Carrie L. Castille.

The new edition of the ULM Brand Guide was developed by Executive Creative Director Srdjan Marjanovic, who also designed all of the new P-40 related assets. Marjanovic says there has been confusion in recent years about whether the Warhawk is a bird or a plane. The answer? “We are both. This duality is central to the Warhawks’ identity and is uniquely ours at ULM. It honors both the vision, precision, and adaptability of the hawk and the legacy of the P-40 Warhawk aircraft flown by General Claire Lee Chennault and his Flying Tigers. This narrative is not just symbolic; it’s rooted in history and regional pride,” said Marjanovic.

Marjanovic says the purpose of this brand realignment is to introduce a flexible identity system that incorporates a wider range of supportive brand assets. Over the past three years, these new brand assets have been rolled out across uniforms, athletic facilities, recruitment materials, licensed merchandise, and more.

New P-40-inspired brand elements detailed in the Brand Guide include the shark mouth logo, a representation of the famous shark mouth graphics the Flying Tigers painted on their P-40s

Flying Tiger Emblem (ULM’s Identifier Symbol)

AVG Roundel (National Pride)

Aircraft Name (ULM’s Identifier Name)

Color Stripe (Squadron Code)

Serial Numbers (Uniform Numbers)

Victory Marks (Teams Achievement)

Cockpit Art (Home/State Pride)

Shark Mouth (Unity Symbol)

“Brand guidelines serve a critical role in protecting the integrity of an organization’s brand. A consistent and clearly defined brand provides the foundation for organizational stability and longterm success.”

– DR. BRICE JONES

before flying into battle, as well as several iterations of the P-40 in flight. Beginning in 2024, the ULM football team’s primary helmets featured the shark mouth design, gaining recognition from national media outlets. Additionally, the football team’s new black uniforms feature several of the P-40 design elements and were well received by the community. ▶

BUZZ IN THE SKY: ULM

TAKES

OFF WITH PRIDE

HERE IS A SNAPSHOT OF THE ONLINE REACTION

Also used as a supportive mark is a roundel, a five-point white star inside a maroon circle with a gold center. The original roundel featured a five-point white star inside a blue circle with a red center and was used as an identifier on the wings and fuselage of the P-40. The U.S. military has granted ULM special permission to use a variation of this retired mark in ULM colors in perpetuity. It currently appears on various athletic uniforms and licensed merchandise, as well as the turf of Malone Stadium and the floor of Fant-Ewing Coliseum.

“Thanks to the vision and support of President Castille and Dr. Brice Jones, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications, the expert guidance of Nell Calloway, Director of the Chennault Aviation & Military Museum, along with Bill Mahan, former Delta pilot and passionate Warhawk historian, this brand realignment is now officially recognized and grounded in both historical and cultural authority,” said Marjanovic.

“Brand guidelines serve a critical role in protecting the integrity of an organization’s brand,” said Dr. Brice Jones, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications. “A consistent and clearly defined brand provides the foundation for organizational stability and long-term success. These revised guidelines incorporate both existing and updated policies and procedures, while also providing the historical context that led to the adoption of the Warhawks name. The document is intended to ensure brand compliance and establish clear standards, presented within a framework that is both accessible and historically informed.”

The ULM Brand Guide is created and maintained by the ULM Office of Marketing and Communications. ■

MEET THE NEW COACHES WARHAWK ATHLETICS HAS WELCOMED FOUR NEW HEAD COACHES IN 2025

Phil Cunningham was named the eighth head men's basketball coach at ULM on March 18, 2025.

"It is an extraordinary blessing and privilege to be named the head coach at ULM," said Cunningham. “I really enjoy living in Monroe and becoming immersed in the ULM community, and I look forward to recruiting the type of players that can help us compete at the highest level of the Sun Belt Conference. I can assure you that nobody will outwork us."

Cunningham served as the assistant coach for the Warhawks during the 2024-25 season and takes the reigns of the storied ULM men's basketball program after Keith Richard announced his retirement following 15 seasons, four postseason appearances, and 170 wins as the head coach of the Warhawks.

Cunningham served as the head coach at Troy University for six seasons from 2013-19. He has also served as an assistant coach at Western Kentucky, Mississippi State, James Madison, and Georgia State.

Cunningham began his coaching career in 1990 as an assistant coach on his father’s staff at Campbellsville State University, after earning a bachelor’s in business administration. He also worked as a graduate assistant at Mississippi State, where he earned a master’s in physical education with an emphasis in sports administration.

Reid Gann, who led Blue Mountain Christian University to three NAIA National Championship Tournament appearances and won 130 matches in six seasons, was named head coach of the ULM indoor volleyball program before the 2025 season.

"I am truly honored to lead ULM volleyball and embrace the opportunity to build something special here," said Gann. "Our vision is to create a culture of excellence that our players, fans, alumni, and administration can be proud of – both on and off the court. We are eager to get to work and lay the foundation for a successful and competitive program."

Gann comes to ULM after leading the Blue Mountain Christian volleyball team and was the head coach for six seasons. Gann was the architect of the program at Blue Mountain Christian in Blue Mountain, Miss., and was the team's first head coach in its 2019 inaugural season.

A former student-athlete, Gann played baseball at Itawamba Community College in Fulton, Mississippi, and graduated with an associate's degree in 2008. He earned a bachelor's degree in physical education from the University of North Alabama in 2012 and a master's in athletic administration and coaching from Western Kentucky University in 2021.

Scotty Fletcher was named the 11th head coach of ULM Women's Basketball on March 28, 2025.

“My wife and I are very honored, appreciative, and thankful to join the elite family of ULM Athletics as your women’s basketball head coach,” said Fletcher.

“It was very evident when we stepped on campus that ULM is a gold mine. This is an opportunity I don’t take lightly, and we will work tirelessly as a staff to continue to move the needle in the right direction in a very challenging league with outstanding players and coaches.”

Fletcher comes to ULM after leading Pearl River to a historic 25-3 record, the fewest losses recorded in program history for a single season. Named the MACCC Coach of the Year for two consecutive years, he has led Pearl River to fourstraight 20-win seasons and three MACCC regular season championships in his 10 years at the helm. In 2024, Fletcher led the Wildcats to their first at-large bid to the NJCAA National Tournament since 2003.

Fletcher holds a bachelor's degree in physical education and recreation from William Carey, graduating in 2007. He then went on to complete a master's degree in education at William Carey in 2009.

SCOTTY FLETCHER

PHIL CUNNINGHAM

REID GANN

photos by Savannah Downey and Luke Richard

FORD PEMBERTON

Ford Pemberton, a well-respected recruiter, player development specialist, and Louisiana native, was named the 13th head baseball coach at ULM on June 11, 2025.

"My family and I are extremely excited about joining the University of Louisiana Monroe and its baseball program," said Pemberton. "I am grateful for this opportunity. We look forward to building and working with a staff in putting together a championship club and aim to play a brand of baseball that Northeast Louisiana, the city of Monroe, the university, fans, and alumni will all be proud of."

and Brooklin Lippert were named to the All-Sun Belt First Team, with Layla Thompson named to the Second Team.

"I couldn't be more elated for these young ladies to get this recognition," said head coach Molly Fichtner. "The Sun Belt is such a competitive conference, so it is an honor for each one of them. I'm very proud of their accomplishments, and more importantly, I am proud to work alongside each of them every day as we compete to be the best we can for our university and community."

Fichtner's honor is the first Coach of the Year award that ULM has received since joining the Sun Belt in 2007.

A native of Bossier City, Pemberton arrives in Monroe after spending two seasons on the Memphis baseball staff as the team's hitting coach and recruiting coordinator. Prior to Memphis, he served as the hitting coach and recruiting coordinator at Southeastern Louisiana.

Pemberton currently serves as a board member of the Louisiana Baseball Coaches Association, a position he has held since 2022. He was a featured speaker at the 2023 LBCA Convention.

Pemberton graduated from Haughton High School and earned a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Louisiana State University in 2013. He later completed a Master of Science in Sport Administration from Arkansas State in 2019.

ATHLETICS SPOTLIGHTS

Fichtner named Sun Belt Coach of the Year, four Warhawks named All-Conference

ULM Softball head coach Molly Fichtner was named the 2025 Sun Belt Coach of the Year, with four Warhawks named all-conference in the postseason, the Sun Belt Conference announced on May 6. Morgan Brown, Meagan Brown

Additionally, ULM softball players were named to the Louisiana Sports Writers Association’s 2025 All-Louisiana Softball Team. Megan Brown and Morgan Brown were named to the All-Louisiana First Team. Dakota Lake received second team honors, with Brooklin Lippert rounding out the recognition on the honorable mention squad.

In a record-breaking season for ULM, the 2025 Warhawks hold the single-season record in hits, runs, RBIs, doubles, batting average, slugging percentage, total bases, and saves.

ULM posted at 35-22 overall record, going 14-10 in Sun Belt play. The team went 22-3 at the ULM Softball Complex and set multiple attendance records, feats not achieved before. With the winningest Sun Belt season ever and the winningest season since 1997, the 2025 Warhawks have been cemented into history.

eight athletes in the finals for each event.

• Juwan Blignaut, a graduate student from Brits, North West, South Africa, set a ULM and Sun Belt Indoor record with a 3:58.02 mile at the Vanderbilt Invitational. He also posted a sub-4:00 mile at the BU David Hemery Valentine Invitational. Blignaut was the Sun Belt Conference Indoor Champion in both the mile and the Distance Medley Relay events. He also set a ULM outdoor school record with a 3:43.00 time in the 1500m at Wake Forest.

• Algirdas Strelciunas, a senior jumper from Pasvalys, Lithuania, was the Sun Belt Conference Indoor Men’s Elite Award Winner. He placed first in the long jump at the Sun Belt Conference championships with a personal best of 7.66m.

• Savanna Lawson, a senior from Albuquerque, N.M., won the gold in the women’s heptathlon at the Sun Belt Conference Championships. She took the firstplace spot with a personal best score of 5213. Within the seven events, she won the 100m hurdles, 200m, and long jump, while placing second in the 800m to secure the overall win.

Vincent named Interim Athletic Director

Head Football Coach Bryant Vincent was named as interim Athletic Director in August.

The Warhawks’ men’s and women’s track & field teams each produced standout performances for the 2025 season. Accolades for the team included:

• Stafon Roach advanced to the NCAA Championships in Eugene, Ore., in the triple jump. The junior from Georgetown, Guyana, placed eighth overall with a 15.99m jump. Roach was named First Team All-American for the triple jump, which is awarded to the top

“I am grateful to Bryant for stepping up to serve as interim AD. Not only is Bryant a leader, but he builds teams and communities,” said ULM President Dr. Carrie L. Castille.

Vincent was named the Head Coach of the ULM Warhawk football team in December 2023. The Warhawks posted a 5-7 record in Vincent’s first year at the helm. The team began the year 5-1, ULM football’s best start to a season since 1987.

FOOTBALL

GEORGE PRATTE MEMORIAL VETERAN SCHOLARSHIP

On December 10, 2024, the ULM Foundation held a ceremony to recognize the establishment of The George Pratte Memorial Veteran Scholarship to aid veterans and active-duty U.S. service members and their families in their pursuit of an undergraduate degree in the ULM College of Arts, Education, and Sciences (CAES). Dr. John Pratte, Dean of CAES, established the $25,000 endowment with other members of the Pratte family to honor their father and his service in the U.S. Navy during World War II. It joins a previous endowed scholarship, the Helen and Mimi Pratte Memorial Scholarship, that honors their mother and sister by making awards to non-traditional female students who are pursuing degrees in CAES.

“While they were unable to go to college when they graduated high school, both Mom and Dad were successful advocates for pursuing a college education, as evidenced by eight of their nine children doing so,” said Dr. Pratte. “They believed that a college education was key to a better life and career in the modern economy, and they did what they could to make all of us successful in pursuing degrees. As a firstgeneration family, we know the deep sacrifices that the two of them and others have had to make to help their children be successful in these endeavors. With this scholarship, we hope that the struggle will not be as great for the next generation of students to achieve this same goal,” he added.

DR. FRANK BRUSCATO ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP FOR EXCELLENCE IN CHEMISTRY AND LEADERSHIP

The University of Louisiana Monroe announced the creation of the Dr. Frank Bruscato Endowed Scholarship for Excellence in Chemistry and Leadership at a ceremony on March 10, 2025. Dr. Bruscato was a professor of chemistry at ULM for 43 years. He retired in 2007. The scholarship was established with a $25,000 gift from Dr. Vince Forte, a former student of Dr. Bruscato, and his wife, Lana Forte.

The scholarship is designated for deserving chemistry and/or pre-med students to enable them to pursue their college degree but, as importantly, give them awareness of the prerequisites necessary to make a formal application to medical school. This scholarship will recognize students who embody the core values of hard work, empathy, service to others, integrity, and honesty in their academic and personal lives.

Dr. Vince Forte is a locally practicing physician who credits Dr. Frank Bruscato with inspiring him to pursue a career in medicine. After Dr. Forte took Dr. Bruscato’s organic chemistry class at ULM (then NLU), the two formed a friendship that has lasted for 40 years.

“It’s an honor to stand before you today to recognize and celebrate an individual whose unwavering commitment to education, mentorship, and leadership has shaped the lives of countless people. Today we’re here not just to express our gratitude but to ensure that Dr. Bruscato’s impact will continue for generations to come through this lifetime endowed scholarship,” said Dr. Forte.

Dr. Bruscato expressed gratitude as he addressed the crowd gathered at the press conference. “I am humbled to the greatest degree by all of you that are here today and the generosity of a former student who made a difference in his life by coming here and developing his family and his practice. I was so fortunate to be on this campus for over 43 years. I’d like to thank you for the honor and recognition of this scholarship established in my name,” said Bruscato.

Representatives from the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors,

with ULM President Dr. Carrie L. Castille and Director of the ULM School of Construction Management Dr. Clint Martin.

LA. CONTRACTORS MAKE ANNUAL DONATION TO ULM SCHOOL OF CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT

The Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC) and the Contractors’ Educational Trust Fund (CEFT) presented a $262,000 donation to the ULM Foundation for the ULM School of Construction Management at a ceremony held September 11, 2025.

ULM President Dr. Carrie L. Castille thanked the groups for the donation and applauded what it will be able to do for the school. “We are really proud of our School of Construction Management,” said Castille. “It’s growing, and our goal is to make sure that we are meeting the needs of the industry. This type of support is exactly what we need to be able to continue to grow this program,” she added.

To date, the LSLBC and the CETF have donated more than $4 million combined to the ULM School of Construction Management.

“We do this because we are the end-users of the ‘product’ that is the graduates of this school,” said Ken Naquin, Secretary/Treasurer of the Contractors’ Educational Trust Fund, as he presented the donation. “The better you can make that product, the better it is for us. It is an honor that this industry I’ve worked in for over 45 years gives back to help prepare young men and women for the industry,” he added.

The funds for the donation come from licensing fees paid by contractors in the state to the LSLBC, which is then distributed to accredited schools of construction in Louisiana, including ULM, LSU, and Louisiana Tech, as well as a two-year accredited program at Baton Rouge Community College.

Dr. John Pratte, Dean of the ULM College of Arts, Education, and Sciences speaks at the ceremony announcing the George Pratte Memorial Veteran Scholarship.

(L-R) Lana Forte, Dr. Frank Bruscato, Dr. Vince Forte.

the Contractors Education Trust Fund, pose

photo by Paul Ware

photo by Brice Jones

photo by Nabin Tamang

(L-R): Jun Tan, Dr. Natalie Campbell, Xiaoan Wang, Hualian Liu, ULM President Dr. Carrie L. Castille, Anna Tan, Yan Liu, Andrew Tan, Caitlyn Campbell

TIANYU WANG ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP IN COMMUNICATION

The Tianyu Wang Endowed Scholarship in Communication has been established at the ULM Foundation thanks to a generous gift from The Tan Family. The announcement was made at a check presentation at the Laird Weems Center on July 2, 2025.

Mr. Tianyu Wang dedicated his life to documenting the lives, culture, and voices of the people in Shaanxi Province through photography and journalism. He believed strongly in the power of storytelling to connect communities and inspire change.

The scholarship was established by Tianyu Wang’s eldest daughter, Xiaoan Wang, BA, ‘97, journalism-public relations, and MA, ‘98, communication; his son-in-law, Jun Tan, MA, ‘91, communication, and PhD, ‘00, pharmacy administration; and his grandchildren, Anna Tan and Andrew Tan.

“On behalf of the ULM community, I extend our deepest gratitude to the Tan family for their extraordinary generosity and vision.”

– PRESIDENT CARRIE L. CASTILLE

“On behalf of the ULM community, I extend our deepest gratitude to the Tan family for their extraordinary generosity and vision,” said ULM President Dr. Carrie L. Castille. “This scholarship not only pays tribute to a pioneering figure in the world of photojournalism, but it also affirms the family’s enduring commitment to education, storytelling, and meaningful connection across cultures and generations,” she added.

The purpose of the scholarship endowment is to celebrate and honor Tianyu Wang’s contributions to the field of photojournalism and to empower future generations of students pursuing careers in communication, photography, journalism, film, media, or related fields. The scholarship will be awarded to a student in the final two semesters of their coursework who maintains a minimum 3.0 GPA.

“Our wish is that this scholarship helps them pursue their education with confidence, curiosity, and a commitment to making a positive impact—values that Mr. Tianyu Wang held dearly as both a journalist and a father,” reflected his daughter, Xiaoan Wang.

April 9, 2025.

SHARON GRIFFITH TURRENTINE SUPER ENDOWED CHAIR IN THE SCHOOL OF VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS

The University of Louisiana Monroe Foundation held a reception on April 9, 2025, to celebrate the creation of the Sharon Griffith Turrentine Super Endowed Chair in the School of Visual and Performing Arts. The $2 million endowment was made possible by a $1,000,000 generous donation from Sharon Griffith Turrentine and her husband, David Turrentine. The ULM Foundation added matching funds of $200,000 and submitted a competitive proposal to the Louisiana Board of Regents Support Fund for a match of $800,000. The endowment will provide funding for the expansion of educational opportunities in the School of Visual and Performing Arts.

Sharon Griffith Turrentine shared with the gathered crowd about her experience growing up on Bayou DeSiard near the ULM campus and how the university was interwoven with her youth. Despite leaving the area after high school to pursue a singing career, Turrentine stated, “Monroe has always been my home, and this university has always been a big part of my heart.”

She eventually returned to the area and married David Turrentine. Her continuing love of music and ULM led her to make the decision to donate to the School of Visual and Performing Arts.

“It means so much to me to be able to assist so many facets of the arts. Knowing that this contribution will touch so many lives for years upon years to come gives me a truly wonderfully great feeling,” said Turrentine.

The reception featured performances from Mrs. Turrentine, as well as ULM vocal students James Wright III, Addison Mitchell, Braden Tucker, and Morgan Meyer. The vocalists were accompanied on piano by ULM Instructor of Music Justin Havard.

Based on the ULM Foundation investment policy, the super endowed chair will provide $80,000 each year to be used at the discretion of the chair holder, with supervision from the ULM Foundation. Uses include the purchase of new equipment, the funding of educational travel, continuing education for the chair holder, and student scholarships. Since no expenditures will ever be made from the principal of the endowment, the fund will continue to support the ULM School of Visual and Performing Arts for generations to come.

The current holder of the Sharon Griffith Turrentine Super Endowed Chair in the School of Visual and Performing Arts is Dr. Nicholas Bratcher, who serves as the Director of the School of Visual and Performing Arts.

In her remarks, Turrentine shared about the scholarship opportunities this gift will provide and how much that could have helped a student like her in the past. “This opportunity for me to help students who cannot afford to be able to further their education means more to me than you can possibly know,” said Turrentine.

Sharon Griffith Turrentine and husband David Turrentine pose at the reception on

photo by Skylar Henry

photo by Nabin Tamang

ABOUT SHARON GRIFFITH TURRENTINE

Sharon Griffith Turrentine is a native of Monroe and a graduate of Ouachita Parish High School. She studied at Northeast Louisiana State College, then attended the University of Houston in vocal performance. Sharon continued her vocal studies at Columbia University in New York City. She performed nightly in Greenwich Village and worked full-time at an advertising agency. Sharon returned to Monroe and put her advertising experience to work at her father’s radio and television stations.

In the 1970s, Sharon developed a passion for physical fitness, including weight training and competitive bodybuilding. For nine years, her program “Shape Up With Sharon” aired on KNOE-TV. Her company designed physical fitness programs for women, and she trained contestants from every state for the Miss America Pageant.

Sharon was appointed to the Louisiana Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports and also taught weight lifting for women and water aerobics at ULM. Now retired, Sharon continues to motivate women to stay active at any age.

Sharon married her husband, David Turrentine in 1975. Together, they have a history of making generous donations to their alma mater. Among their many gifts are $1 million donated in 2020 to create the David and Sharon Turrentine School of Management within the ULM College of Business and Social Sciences and $60,000 donated in 2015 to create the David and Sharon Turrentine Endowed Professorship in the College of Business and Social Sciences.

LOUISIANA BOARD OF REGENTS SUPPORT FUND PROVIDES $660,000 IN MATCHING FUNDS TO ENRICH PRIVATE DONOR GIFTS

The Louisiana Board of Regents Support Fund (BoRSF) is funded through the interest earnings from a $583 million trust fund dedicated to the Louisiana State Constitution to the Board of Regents. Through the BoRSF, the Board of Regents operates four endowment matching programs: Endowed Chairs for Eminent Scholars, Endowed Professorships, Endowed Superior Graduate Student Scholarships, and Endowed Two-Year Student Workforce Scholarships. The following endowments at ULM have been matched with funds from the BoRSF.

THE SHARON GRIFFITH TURRENTINE SUPER ENDOWED CHAIR IN VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS

The Turrentine Super Endowed Chair received $400,000 to match a $1,000,000 private donation, plus a ULM Foundation matching contribution of $200,000. In 2026, the remaining match award of $400,000 from the LA Board of Regents will be received, bringing the Super Chair to $2,000,000.

KEN AND MARY RENWICK

Ken and Mary Renwick funded scholarships in six different schools each year until they decided to convert their scholarship fund into a Superior Graduate Student Scholarship endowment at ULM for Marriage and Family Therapy graduate students. Their $60,000 gift was matched with $40,000.

GENEVE CASTLES

Geneve Castles, who retired in 1980 from the Monroe City School System after 44 years of teaching, provided significant financial support through the establishment of endowments in memory of her brother Richard D. Castles. She was a member of the first graduating class of Neville High School and, in 1990, was the 6th recipient of an honorary doctorate from Northeast Louisiana University, now ULM. The R. D. Castles Superior Graduate Student Scholarship in Marriage and Family Therapy, established with $120,000 in private donations, received $80,000 in matching funds.

ADDITIONAL MATCHES

Each of the following endowments received $20,000 from the LA Board of Regents to match generous donor contributions, plus matching from the ULM Foundation:

• Lynn and James Moore Jr. Endowed Professorship of Distinction

• Louis J. St. Amant Endowed Professorship in Rehabilitative Sciences

• R. D. Farr First Generation Endowed Scholarship

Each of the following endowments received $20,000 in matching funds for donor private donations of $80,000 each that established the endowments:

• ULM Endowed Professorship in Health Sciences

• Deanie Baker Endowed Professorship of Distinction

• Marjorie S. Price Endowed Professorship in Physical Therapy

• William F. Sherman First Generation Endowed Scholarship

photo by Nabin Tamang

BY ADAM MCDONALD

ULM FOUNDATION CELEBRATES LIFE CHANGERS

AT ANNUAL EVENING OF THANKS

The University of Louisiana Monroe Foundation recognized donors and lifetime benefactors at the annual Evening of Thanks event on Friday, May 2, 2025, in the Terrace Room on the 7th floor of the ULM Library. The theme of the 2025 event was “Celebrating Our Life Changers.” Attendees enjoyed musical performances from the ULM School of Visual and Performing Arts and personal testimonies from Rosemary Manning, Amaya West, and Michael Crenshaw. Janet Durden and Paul von Diezelski were recipients of the 2025 Warhawk Ambassador Award.

Donors who reached new lifetime giving levels in The Kitty DeGree Bell Tower Society within the last year were also honored at the event.

Moving up to the Tower Society, with lifetime donations of over $1,000,000, were Mark and Mildred Maurer.

Moving up to the Bayou Society, with lifetime donations of over $500,000, were Marilyn and Lou St. Amant, Jeff and Denise Donald, Everett Stagg, Leslie H. Smith, Lori and Louis Ray, Ron and Cindy Mason, and Lee and Anna Denny.

Advancing to the Ouachita Society, with lifetime donations of over $100,000, were the Tom and Sue Nicholson, Leazel and Scott McDonald, Cindy and Dennis Rogers,

AmWins Group, Inc., and Harvey Marcus, Sr. New Cornerstone Society members, with lifetime donations of over $50,000, included Sherry and John Mark Wilhite, Michael W. Nolan, Blair Michel and the NLU Indians, Paul and Teresa von Diezelski, Stewart Causey, Bobby Craighead, Kenny and Jane P. Brown, Drs. Bethany Stillion and John M. Pratte, Marion State Bank, John M. Guice, Homeland Federal Savings Bank, and Sam and Sally Davison and family.

ULM Foundation Executive Director Susan Chappell announced that as of the end of 2024, the ULM Foundation reached $109.5M in total assets since its inception. “Tonight, we celebrate you who change the lives of students, teachers, administration, the community, state, nation, and the world. We can’t thank you enough!” said Chappell to the gathered crowd of donors.

Toni Bacon introduced the 2025 winners of the Warhawk Ambassador Award, Janet

Linda Holyfield (left), ULM Foundation Board of Trustees President Charles Jackson (center), and Dr. Gwenn Jackson (right), gather for the annual celebration.

Warhawk Ambassador Award winner Paul Von Diezelski receives a hug from Toni Bacon as he comes to accept his award.

ULM Advancement Officer Sarah Siereveld (left) enjoys the evening with Debbie and Bill Mahan.

photos by Skylar Henry

Durden and Paul von Diezelski. The ULM Warhawk Ambassador Award honors the individuals whose interests and loyalty are evident in their deeds and actions, reflecting and recognizing the importance of ULM in our local and global community and demonstrating pride in the University.

A native of Mississippi, Janet S. Durden served as the President of United Way of Northeast Louisiana from 1985 until her retirement in March 2025. In 2021, in collaboration with Janet and the United Way, ULM provided a book, authored by Cindy Foust and illustrated by Srdjan Marjanovic, to over 2000 area 3rd graders during the week of ULM’s 90th anniversary. Over 100 volunteers helped read the book on the university’s campus and in local classrooms. Printed on the first page of the book is a “2031 Centennial Scholarship” award amounting to $500.

Paul von Diezelski graduated from ULM in 1976 with a health/physical education degree and just a few credits shy of a dual degree in accounting. While attending college, he lettered in football and was a member of Kappa Sigma fraternity. Paul and his wife, Teresa, also a ULM graduate, recently joined the Cornerstone level of the Kitty Degree Bell Tower Society, which recognizes overall giving to ULM. He is a Lifetime member of the ULM L-Club. He also served on the ULM Athletic Foundation. He and Teresa often host softball players for dinner to give them a little taste of home.

Paul has advocated for ULM since his graduation, through years of being a season ticket holder in multiple sports, attending oncampus and community events that support ULM and quoting routinely, “I love this university and tell anyone who will listen.”

ULM Foundation Board of Trustees

ULM supporters from across the region joined together for a fun evening of food, drinks, and entertainment.

Pictured L-R: Louis Ray, Lori Ray, Patty Abell, Dixon Abell.

“Tonight, we celebrate you who change the lives of students, teachers, administration, the community, state, nation, and the world. We can’t thank you enough!”

– SUSAN CHAPPELL

President Charles Jackson concluded the evening with words of gratitude for the attendees. “I want to add my voice to those you’ve already heard from this evening and say Thank you!” said Jackson. “You’ve heard stories tonight of lives changed by this university in years past and seen that lives are still being changed today. More importantly, you’ve seen the promise of lives to be changed in the future.” ■

Scan & Watch! bit.ly/eveningofthanks

Scan the codes to watch a retrospective video that was played at Evening of Thanks, as well as personal stories from some of the evening’s special guest speakers. All videos were created by ULM Digital Media Specialist Molly Masters.

Scan & Watch! bit.ly/crenshaw2025

Scan & Watch! bit.ly/west-2025

Scan & Watch! bit.ly/manning2025

Warhawk Ambassador Award winner Janet Durden delivers her speech upon receiving her award.

Tom Nicholson (left), Sue Nicholson (center), and Mary Bernard (right), applaud during the presentation of awards.

BY ADAM MCDONALD

ULM CELEBRATES EMPLOYEES AT 2025 FOUNDATION AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

THE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA MONROE CELEBRATED THE SUCCESSES OF ITS FACULTY AND STAFF AT THE ANNUAL FOUNDATION AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE ON FRIDAY, MAY 2, AT BAYOU POINTE EVENT CENTER. THE UNIVERSITY BESTOWED EMERITI STATUS TO TWO PROFESSORS, HONORED EIGHT FACULTY AND STAFF WITH AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE AND PROMOTED 19 FACULTY TO FULL PROFESSOR, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, OR TENURE.

Professor Emeritus status was bestowed to Dr. Jose Cordova, Associate Professor of Computer Science, and Dr. Paul Sylvester, Professor of Pharmacy and Associate Dean for Research in the College of Pharmacy.

The following faculty members received promotions and/or tenure: promoted to professor (Dr. Anne Case Hanks, Dr. Ann Rodriguez, Dr. Will Rogers, Dr. Jun Yu), clinical associate professor (Dr. Ashley Barbo, Dr. Hanna Rotundo, Dr. Hilary Tice), and associate professor (Dr. Lyndsey Bamburg, Dr. Vonda Boone, Dr. Lee Ann Box, Dr. Donna Glaze, Dr. Leah Hawsey, Dr. Jessica Louque, Dr. Amy Miller, Dr. Heather Pilcher, Dr. Paula Robinson-Jones, Dr. Eric Siereveld, Dr. Marie Thomas, Dr. Amy Weems). Professors and Associate Professors awarded tenure included Rodriguez, Yu, Bamburg, Boone, Box, Hawsey, Miller, Robinson-Jones, Siereveld, and Weems

There were eight winners of the 2025 Foundation Awards for Excellence. Each winner was nominated by their colleagues. Upon receiving their awards, winners posed for photos with former ULM President Dr. Nick Bruno.

The Ken Clow Award for Excellence in Research went to Dr. Daniel Hummel, Assistant Professor of Political Science. The award is named after the late marketing professor who published multiple books and more than 200 journal articles and proceedings. Dr. Hummel has been teaching at universities since 2013 and at ULM since 2021. In his time at ULM, Dr.

Hummel has published a number of articles and book chapters, focusing primarily on state public policy, public administration, and public finance.

"Dr. Hummel’s exceptional research contributions, exemplary mentorship, and collaborative spirit make him the ideal candidate for this award,” said Dr. Leigh Hersey, Associate Professor of Political Science. “I am confident that his research will continue to make significant and lasting contributions to the field of public administration,” she added.

This year, there were two winners of the Florencetta Gibson Award for Excellence in Service. Named after the professor emerita of nursing, the award goes to a faculty member who is committed to service to the University in ways that positively impact the institution and community as a whole.

The first winner was Dr. Carl Thameling, Professor of Communication. Dr. Thameling began at ULM in 1998 and has served as a member of numerous college and program-level committees and as a mentor for the Emerging Scholars Program. He has worked in a volunteer capacity with both the National Communication Association and the Louisiana Communication Association. Dr. Thameling regularly participates at the ULM Catholic Campus Ministry (CCM) in many ways. Dr. Thameling retired at the end of the Spring 2025 semester after 27 years at ULM.

"Dr. Thameling’s impact at ULM is profound and multifaceted, spanning research, teaching, and leadership. His unwavering commitment to academic excellence, student mentorship, and

institutional development makes him truly deserving of this award. His legacy at ULM will continue to inspire future generations of students and faculty alike,” said Dr. Sovichan Scaria, Assistant Professor of Marriage and Family Therapy.

The second winner of the Florencetta Gibson Award for Excellence in Service was Dr. Ashanti Jones, Associate Program Director and Director of Clinical Education for the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. Dr. Jones has been at ULM since 2020 and served as the chair of the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education Committee from 2021 to 2023, helping the program to become fully accredited in 2025. She also serves on the Admissions Committee, Curriculum Committee, Faculty Senate, and the Opportunity Fund Committee. She will also serve on the National Board Appointed Committee of the American Physical Therapy Association from 2025 to 2027.

“Ashanti possesses a servant heart and demonstrates an admirable work ethic. She is consistently collegial and collaborative, fostering an environment of respect and teamwork. These traits not only make her an exceptional leader, but also an inspiring mentor to both faculty and students alike,” said Dr. Wendy Bailes, Dean of the ULM College of Health Sciences.

The recipient of the Foundation Award for Excellence in Teaching was Dr. Tammy Johnston, Professor of Economics. Johnston has been a faculty member at ULM since 1997. She

Associate Professor of Computer Science Dr. Jose Cordova was given professor emeritus status.

Professor of Pharmacy Dr. Paul Sylvester was given professor emeritus status.

Dr. Daniel Hummel received the Ken Clow Award for Excellence in Research.

photos by Emma Monceaux

has over 60 refereed journal publications and has presented at more than 70 conferences, including international conferences. She was nominated for Sun Belt Conference Faculty of the Year in 2024 by the ULM Athletic Foundation and received the Ken Clow Award for Excellence in Research in 2023 from the ULM Foundation.

“Dr. Johnston has distinguished herself by her excellent skills in teaching Economics courses to a diverse array of students of different majors. She is a very supportive mentor to her Business Administration advisees, and she always makes sure that she is available to her students to help in any capacity needed. She is definitely a valuable faculty member who deserves to be recognized,” said Dr. Arturo Rodriguez, Director of the William D. Hoover School of Accounting, Financial, and Information Services.

The Foundation Award for Excellence in Creative and Innovative Works was awarded to Dr. Jameshia Below, an Assistant Professor in the School of Clinical Sciences in the College of Pharmacy. Dr. Below values the use of innovative teaching methods in her classroom, including employing the use of AI to craft realistic case activities, the use of an “escape room” to help students develop teamwork and solve complex diagnostic problems, the building of computer algorithms, and the use of a game show model. Dr. Below also received the Educational Innovation of the Year Faculty Award from the College of Pharmacy in January 2025.

“Dr. Below is a forward-thinking educator, researcher, and leader whose dedication to advancing pharmacy education has profoundly impacted both students and colleagues. Her ability to integrate emerging technologies, innovative teaching methods, and studentcentered learning strategies has redefined classroom engagement, ensuring that pharmacy graduates are well prepared for the evolving healthcare landscape,” said Dr. Glenn Anderson, Dean of the ULM College of Pharmacy.

The Madelaine Lanham Award for Service by Classified Staff was awarded to Troy Drake, Maintenance Foreman for the ULM Physical Plant. Drake has worked at ULM since 2003. Drake oversees the coordination of resources for a variety of events on campus.

“Troy and his team have always cooperated

with some of the most outlandish requests, all the while with a smile and the reassurance that they would find a way to make it happen. He has a love for this university and the people who learn here or work here that is admirable,” said Lisa Miller, Vice President for Enrollment Management and University Relations.

The Alma Sewell Award for Service by Unclassified Staff went to Jacqueline Jones, Pre-Awards Grant Manager in the Office of Sponsored Programs and Research. Named after the staff member who dedicated more than four decades of service to ULM, the award goes to an employee who is an inspiration for their exemplary service, on- or off-campus. Ms. Jones has worked at ULM since 2005, and holds four degrees from the university, including two master's degrees. Ms. Jones has volunteered in the community as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for children in foster care, and with the United Way READ.LEARN. SUCCEED program. She has also written and published two children’s books and is working on a third.

“I truly admire Ms. Jones because of her extreme persistence to achieve. She has never wavered in her determination for success and even today continues to learn and share her knowledge with others,” said LaWanna Gilbert-Bell, Director of the ULM Office of Sponsored Programs and Research.

The Judy Smith Award for Warhawk Spirit, named after the late assistant director of the Office of Financial Aid who demonstrated selfless dedication to student fulfillment, was awarded to Kristal Anzalone, Executive Director of Recruitment. Ms. Anzalone began her career at ULM in 2003 and served in a variety of positions before leaving in 2013. She returned to ULM in 2018 as Assistant Director of Student Communications and became Executive Director of Recruitment in January 2025.

"For more than seventeen years, Kristal has been a champion for student success, always putting their needs first and ensuring they feel supported at every step of their journey. From campus traditions to everyday moments of support, she embodies what it means to be a Warhawk, not just in spirit, but in action,” said Sami Owens, Assistant Vice President of Admissions, Scholarships, and Operations. ■

Dr. Carl Thameling (center) was one of two winners of the Florencetta Gibson Award for Excellence in Service. Dr. Gibson (right) was on hand to help present the award.

Dr. Ashanti Jones (center) was one of two winners of the Florencetta Gibson Award for Excellence in Service. Dr. Gibson (right) was on hand to help present the award.

Dr. Tammy Johnston received the Foundation Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Dr. Jameshia Below received the Foundation Award for Excellence in Creative and Innovative Works.

Troy Drake received the Madelaine Lanham Award for Service by Classified Staff.

Jacqueline Jones received the Alma Sewell Award for Service by Unclassified Staff.

Kristal Anzalone received the Judy Smith Award for Warhawk Spirit.

ALUMNI CLASS NOTES

1982

Naomi Watson,PA-C (BS Botany), is now serving patients at The Pratt Clinic. A graduate of both the ULM and UT Health Science Center–Dallas, Naomi blends science, compassion, and curiosity to help patients get to the root of concerns like anxiety, chronic pain, and low motivation. Her innovative approach includes everything from nutritional support to red light therapy—offering real strategies for lasting wellness.

1983

Sherri E. Fleming (BA Journalism) started her journey at ULM, and that degree took her everywhere. After 33 years of impactful public service, including as the longest-serving County Executive for Travis County Health & Human Services, Sherri continues to lead with vision, strategy, and purpose. Now, she’s been appointed to the Strategic Advisory Board Committee for the Black Men's Health Clinic.

Andrea Kennedy (BA Public Relations) has built a career rooted in connection, community, and leadership. She’s now the Membership Chair for Fusion Five, Fundraising Chair for the Lake Charles Symphony, Committee Member for the West Cal Chamber + SWLA Youth Foundation, and the newest board member at SAFE Net.

2006

Kim Lowery (Social Work) was named President and CEO of United Way NELA on April 1, 2025. Kim, an adaptable and solutionfocused nonprofit executive, brings over 14 years of experience advancing community impact, resource

development, and organizational excellence at United Way of Northeast Louisiana.

2007

Jessica Helmer Brady (Pharmacy) was installed as National Vice President for Phi Mu Fraternity in July 2025 for a two-year term. This will be her second term, as she was first installed in July 2023.

2013

Rebecca Hood (BS Nursing) received a nurse spotlight at Ghattas Oncology. A proud ULM alum and experienced nurse practitioner, Rebecca brings both clinical excellence and deep compassion to every patient interaction. From hematology and oncology to women’s health and telemetry, her approach is always rooted in empathy, expertise, and whole-person care.

2015

Adebanjo Adedoja (BS Biology) has earned his Ph.D. in Biological and Biomedical Sciences from Harvard University. He was selected as Commencement Marshal and delivered the student address at the diploma ceremony, where he credited ULM professors for believing in him before he believed in himself. He gave special thanks to Dr. Srinivas Garlapti, Dr. Allison Wiedemeier, Dr. Ann Findley, and Dr. Debra Jackson.

2017

Chris Williams (BS Kinesiology) is the Director of Student Development at ULM. He was recognized by the Monroe Chamber of Commerce

as one of the Top 20 Under 40 for 2025.

2022

Zaria Tubbs (Secondary Education and Teaching) was named West Monroe High School Teacher of the Year for 2025-2026. “I am beyond thankful to be named West Monroe High School’s Teacher of the Year, and to work alongside some of the best of the best every single day. To my students, my colleagues, my administrators, and my family—thank you for believing in me and pushing me to grow. This honor is not just mine, but ours. Here’s to continuing to love, serve, and inspire—forever a Rebel!" said Tubbs.■

The ULM Alumni Association presented its annual awards at the 2025 Good Morning Gala on September 27. The winners were:

• AlumniLifetimeAchievementAward-BlakePitre

• Golden Arrow Award - Christina Davis

• Rising Young Alumni Award - Courtnei Davis

• Best on the Bayou Award - Cindy Foust

• Club of the Year - Water Ski Booster Club

• Chapter of the Year - Baton Rouge Chapter

photos provided by Special Collections & Archives

THE KITTY DEGREE BELL TOWER SOCIETY

The Kitty DeGree Bell Tower Society honor roll is named for the university’s most generous contributor, Dr. Kitty DeGree.

Bell Tower Society members have contributed at least $50,000 to the university and have extraordinary histories of support to ULM. Their names are permanently inscribed on ULM’s “Wall of Honor” located in the ULM Conference Center.

KITTY DEGREE

Investments by the Kitty DeGree Foundation recently established the College of Arts, Education and Sciences (CAES) Dean’s Priorities Fund and the Choral Music Endowment. The CAES Dean’s fund supports an employee professional development series and creates marketing materials for CAES majors explaining each major and potential career fields / employment possibilities. The Choral Music Endowment supports recruitment / retention of choral students to enable hosting, visiting, or traveling musicians, and travel for continuing education and/or sponsoring students at select music events or festivals for which they routinely qualify.

TOWER SOCIETY

$1,000,000 +

Susan Denmon

Banowsky William S. Banowsky, Jr.

Stephen W. and Ernestine M. Brown

The Darrell and Mary Calhoun Foundation

Milburn and Nancy Calhoun

CenturyLink

Chase Coca-Cola Refreshments

Contractors Educational Trust Fund

Jonathan and Sheila Davies

Kitty DeGree

Dr. Judy H. Diffley

Emy-Lou Biedenharn Foundation

Glenwood Regional Medical Center

The William D. Hoover Family

Ella S. Johnson

Nancy J. Johnston

LA State Licensing Board for Contractors

Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation

Linda and Eric Liew

Chip Lyman

Mark & Mildred Maurer

Monroe/West Monroe Convention and Visitors Bureau

John and Billie Smith

Estate of Hanna Spyker

St. Francis Medical Center

Charles Freeman Stamper

Thomas H. and Mayme

P. Scott Foundation

Dhu & Mary Ellen Thompson

David and Sharon Turrentine

Lallage F. Wall

BAYOU SOCIETY

$500,000 - $999,999

Bennie and Nelson Abell

Stephanie and Nelson Abell

Buck and Libby Anderson

Guy and Loura Barr

Bruce and Lizabeth Boulware

Capital One Bank

City of Monroe

Betty and Jay Cummins

Bruce and Carol Hanks

The Humane Society

Adoption Center of Monroe, Inc.

John E. Huntsman and Sharon D. Harrison

Johnny's Pizza House

Carole and Tex

Kilpatrick

Kilpatrick Funeral Homes

Louisiana Board of Pharmacy

Louisiana Department of Insurance

Louisiana Wholesale Drug Company, Inc.

The Martin Foundation

Mary Goss Charities

Bonnie and Frank Maxwell, III

Kay and Hugh McDonald

Patrick and Catherine Mitchell

James and Lynn Moore

North Louisiana Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Clinic

The Radio People

Regions Bank

Marilyn & Lou St. Amant

The Strauss and Mintz Families

Elsie Webb

Willis-Knighton Health System

OUACHITA SOCIETY

$100,000 - $499,999

Action Moving and Storage, Inc.

ADIDAS

Alltel Corporation

American Business Women's Association

AmSouth Bank

AmWins Group, Inc.

Aramark

Kirby and Susan Arceneaux

Mike and Loretta Ashbrook

AT&T

The Atrium Hotel and Conference Centre

BancorpSouth Bank

T. O. Bancroft, Jr.

Bancroft Bag, Inc.

Tommy and Mary Barham

Carolyn and Harold Bates

Don Beach

Drs. Ron and Christine Berry

Bernard W. Biedenharn

Jack and Debbie Blitch

The Blue Cross Blue Shield Louisiana Foundation

Larry and Cecille

Bradley

Tim and Jolie Brandon

Bob and Donna Brooks

Brookshire Grocery Company

Nick J. and Linda C. Bruno

Guy Campbell, III

Caridad Foundation

Geneve A. Castles

Catfish Cabin of Monroe

Stewart, Donna, Stewart, Jr. and Erich Cathey

Central Management Company

Christopher Youth Center

Clarion Inn and Suites

Justice Marcus R. Clark (Retired)

Comcast Cable

Dr. Joshua L. Comer & Dr. Cheyenne Comer

Como Charitable Foundation est by Luella Snyder

The Community Foundation of North Louisiana

CVS Health Foundation

Lawrence J. Danna

Thomas Dansby, Sr. Dansby's Taylor Rental Center

Glen L. Davison

Lev and Anne Dawson

Delta Ridge Implement, Inc.

Lee and Anna Denny

Dale and Jimmy N. Dimos

Dixie Shell Homes and Self Storage

Jeff and Denise Donald Jim Doull

Robert. R. and Bobbye Earle

Michael C. Echols

Entergy Services, Inc.

Evans Oil Company, Inc.

Randy and Rosemary Ewing

Drew and Joe Farr

Faulk Collier Moving & Storage

Paul Fink

Charles E. "Chuck" Finley

First National Bank

James Kurt and Irmgard Kahn Fisher

Stephen M. Futrell

John & Tasha Gardner

Geo Surfaces

Bertha Marie

Masur Gorn

Ronny and Judy Graham

Graphic Packing, Inc.

J . D. and Annie Greco

Marsha Dawn Griffin

Betty Caskey Gorsage

Frances Hammond

Cayce and Vicky Hand Family

Davis and Denise Hardy

The Hearn Family

Hertz Rent-A-Car

Hixon Autoplex

Susan & Frank Hoffmann

Chris & Andi Holyfield

Joe and Linda Holyfield

The Horrell Family Chris, Erin, Maddie & Gary

Kathryn Huff Insurance Agency

Ken and Kathryn Huff IberiaBank

InterMountain Management

Suzie Jackson

Joey and Cyd Jacobs

James Machine Works, Inc.

Jim Taylor Chevrolet

Evelyn and Jeff Johnson

Dan Johnston

Jody and Bishop Johnston

Sissie & Gary Jones

JPS Equipment and JPS Aviation

J.W. Wong Knowledge Enrichment Foundation

Loucille G. Kinsey

KNOE TV

KTVE Channel 10 and KARD Fox 14

Lamar Advertising

Land 3 Architect

Jay and Teri Lewis

Sally Liew and Kevin Koh

Lynn and Gail Lincecum

Lincoln

Associated General Contractors

Louisiana Cancer Foundation

Louisiana Independent Pharmacies Association - LIPA

Louisiana Lottery Corporation

Louisiana Pain Care

Gary and Jan Luffey

George & Jane Luffey

John and Debbie Luffey

John and Rosemary Luffey

The Matson Family Foundation

Harvey Marcus, Sr.

Marsala

Beverage, Inc.

Fred A. and Lillian Marx

Ron & Cindy Mason

Charles H. and Kay McDonald

Leazel and Scott McDonald

Duke and Liesha McHugh

Marty and Catherine McKay

Estate of Lewis Marvin McKneely

Mid South Extrusion

Mark and Janet Mitchell

James & Dot Mock

Monroe

Athletic Club

Brian and Maxine Laird Moreau

Randy Morris

Morris & Dickson Company, LLC

Shawn D. and Donna Kay Murphy

Rhonda Wray and Mark J. Neal

Newcomer, Morris, and Young, Inc.

The News-Star

Tom and Sue Nicholson

Noe Corporation, LLC

Freddy and Reba Nolan

Novartis

Nelda Oliver

ONB Educational Trust Fund

Origin Bank

Doug and Glenda Gates Otten

Ouachita Independent Bank

Ouachita Parish Chapter of the ULM Alumni Association

Ouachita Parish Women's Republican Club

P & S Surgical Hospital

Panel Truss

Texas

The Doug Pederson Family

Teddy and Susan Price

Progressive Bank

Raising Cane's

Adele W. Ransom

Lori and Louis Ray

Johnny and Carleen Reeves

Merlin Reiser

Ken and Mary Parnell Renwick

Jim and Debbie Rivers

Robertson Produce, Inc.

Lawrence A. and Elizabeth Ann Robinson

Mary Jo and B. J. Robison

Cindy and Dennis Rogers

Tag Rome

Ronnie Ward Toyota of Ruston

The Sol Rosenberg Family

Ryan Auto Group

Salvador Scaccia

Scott Powerline and Utility Equipment

Scott Truck and Scott Idealease

Ray & Melba Scurlock

John F. and Lucy Shackelford

Southern Pines f/k/a Calvert

Crossing and Pine Hills

Leslie H. Smith

The Phillip R. Smith Family

Sparks Nissan Kia

St. Francis

North Hospital

Auxiliary

The Stapleton Family

State Farm

Insurance Companies

Steel Fabricators of Monroe, LLC

Lenora Francois Stewart & David W. Stewart

Lawson and Sharon Swearingen

Estate of James S. Taunton

TBA Studio

The Toggery/ Her Toggery

Tom Scott, Jr. Scholarship Foundation

Joey & Holly Trappey

Elee and Terri Trichel

Harold and Helen Turner

ULM Bookstore

Vantage Health Plan, Inc.

Van-Trow Toyota

VCOMLouisiana

Walgreens

George Thomas & Mary Ellen Walker

Ronnie and Sharon Ward

Katherine and Jerry Warner Waste Management

Waterfront Grill

Julie and Dewey Weaver

Doug and Shannon Wells

John and Karen Wells

West Carroll Health System

Lawrence I. and Glenda S. White

Clark and Mary Kathryn Williams

Harry and Mary Lou Winters

John W. and Shiangling L. Wong

Michael H. Woods

Workforce Development Board 83

Carol L. Young

Ray & Dorothy Young & Family

CORNERSTONE

SOCIETY

$50,000 - $99,999

Aeneas Williams Dealerships

Institute

Yvonne and Kent Anderson

Dr. Judy Fellows & Tony Arpino

AT&T Wireless

Joe and Sandra Banks

Barnes & Nobles

College ULM Bookstore

Biedenharn Foundation

Kathy and Murray Biedenharn

Blue Cross Blue Shield Foundation of Louisiana

Bill and Scarlett Boles

Catherine and William R. "Billy" Boles

Shirley Boyce

Nolton & Lanell

Causey Steven & LeAnn Boyd

Ed & Mary Brayton

Kenny and Jane P. Brown

Lillian Inzina Brown

Shirley Buchanan

Busch Media Group

Ron & Liz Bush

Linda and George Campbell

Robert & Traci

Canterbury

Stewart Causey

Central Oil & Supply Corp.

Ryan & Susan Chappell

Mike & Kim

Clement

Dr. Henry S. and Ann Cole

Bob & Tracie Coons

Cooper Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Inc.

Bobby Craighead

Cross Keys Bank

William F. Crowder

Ray L. Crowell

Camile W. Currier

Sam & Sally Davidson and their family

Ed and Betty Davis

Thomas D. and Attie W. Day

Dickenson

Basil and Gail Doles

David Doles

Bart & Kay Dornier

Downtown Monroe

Lions Club

Eckerd

Corporation Foundation

Ecoutez

Press Ltd.

Michelle Egan

ESPN

R. Stewart Ewing, Jr.

Farmers Grain Terminal, Inc.

FedEx Express

Fiesta Nutrition Center, Inc.

Frenchmen's

Bend Golf & Health Club

GlaxoSmithKline

Estate of Gertie

M. Allen Green

John M. Guice

Guide Corporation

Steven & Denise Gullatt

Rusty and Lisa Haile

Billy & Earlene

Hannah

Tim R. and Wanda Holcomb

Ken and Carol Holland

Estate of Ernest Duncan Holloway

Home Builders Association of Northeast Louisiana

Homeland

Federal

Savings Bank

HomesPlus

Dr. Janet L. Hood-Hanchey, PhD

Judy and Francis Huffman

Peter and Nancy Illing

Independent Insurance

Agents & Brokers of Louisiana

Indian Aquatic Club

Interstate Automotive Group

John and Susan Jackson

KAQY TV

R. Britton Katz

Billy and Florinell Laird

Ivan R. & Patricia A. Landry

Estate of Louise Briley Leake

Lee Edwards

Mazda

Violet Little Liner

The Links at Muny, LLC

Louisiana Charities Trust

Louisiana

Machinery, Inc.

Louisiana Real Estate Commission

Louisiana Tom's

Vending

Louisiana

Workers' Compensation Corporation

Luv N' Care

Marion State Bank

Bobbie and Tommy Matthieu

McDonald's

Michael & Catherine

McKay

Nonie and Billy McKie

Robert E. Meyer

Blair Michel & the NLU Indians

C. Brad & Shannon Moncrief

Moore Oil Company, Inc.

Vivian Jircik

Muckleroy

Ronnie & Cathy Myrick

Kathleen Calhoun Nettleton

Michael W. Nolan

Northeast Louisiana

Arts Council

Northwest

Louisiana

Chapter of the ULM Alumni Association

Kurt & Sandy Oestriecher

OPUS

Broadcasting

Keith Ouchley

Outback Steakhouse

Overton Brooks VA Medical Center

Dr. Eric & Denise Pani

Van and Ann Pardue

Blake and Juanita Pitre

Drs. Bethany

Stillion and John M. Pratte

Darren & Nancy Rak

Richland

State Bank

Rig Site Rental, LP

Dan and Hope Robertson

Ammon Fuller Jack Robison

Kyle W. Russell

George & Stephanie Schaeffer

Elizabeth Ann Shaw

T.J. and Wanda W. Shuflin

Sara L. Simmonds

Simmons Sporting Goods

Estate of John H. Smith, III

St. Francis Medical Center

Auxiliary

St. Francis

North Hospital

Stagg Cattle Company

TEXO

James A. Thom, III

Thomas & Farr

Agency, Inc.

Tom and Katie Torregrossa

Robert B. and Susan L. Toups

Randy and Melanie Turner

Twin City Mayors' Committee on Disabilities

TXI Texas Industries

Doll & Ken Vines

Paul & Teresa von Diezelski

W. Elton

Kennedy Foundation

Wal-Mart Foundation

Clyde R. & Patricia H. White

Sherry and John Mark Wilhite

Sidney R. Wilhite

Kenneth and Anne Wilson

Wimbledon

Health Partners

Daniel and Trudi Wood

Builders, Inc.

Linda Noe Laine Foundation

William T. and Kandy A. Little

Louisiana

Scott and Livvy Nunnelee

OEDC Land Corporation

Dr. Paxton &

Everett Stagg

Lance and Tammy Jarrell

Stanfill

Stangier Wealth Management

Jim and Louise Altick

American Medical Response

American Petroleum

V. Gerald and Gretchen Dean

Professor Shane Desselle

The Dial Family Foundation

Richard and Cheryle

Anne and Elton

Kennedy

Scott and Wendy Kreps

La Capitol

Federal Credit Union

Dr. Thomas I. Parks

Jeanne R. and John H. Pere

John and Cyndy Perry

Bill & Kathy Pippin

Kevin and Nita Woods

Jackie and Ellen Yeldell

E. Orum Young

Your Local Dodge Dealers

THE GEORGE T. WALKER HERITAGE SOCIETY

The George T. Walker Heritage Society honors those generous donors who have included the university as a beneficiary in their wills or have made other planned estate gifts such as charitable gift annuities, life insurance policies, and charitable trusts. Dr. Walker, the university’s president from 1958-1976, is one of the individuals most responsible for the growth of this outstanding institution of higher learning. To learn more about the advantages of charitable estate planning, visit gifts.ulm.edu

Buck and Libby Anderson

Thomas O. Bancroft*

Guy and Loura Barr

Florence J. Blackstock*

Jack and Debbie* Blitch

Scherck Bogen*

Stephen* and Ernestine Brown

Carl* and Kaye* Cloessner

Toni Coble*

Curtis and Laurinda Crenshaw

Ray Crowell

Dr. Lawrence J. Danna*

Thomas* and Attie Day

Kitty DeGree*

Dr. Judy High Diffley

Jimmy* and Dale Dimos

Michael Echols

Douglas and Kristy Farr

James Kurt* and Irmgard Kahn* Fisher

Billy and Patti Gammel

Charlotte Diane Gilbert*

Mark Randall Gilley

Maurice L. Gold*

Ronald and Judith Graham

J.D. and Annie Greco

Marsha D. Griffin*

Frances D. Hammond*

Ressa* and Joe Harris*

Terry Michael Hays

Ernest Duncan Holloway*

John E. Huntsman* and Sharon D. Harrison

Suzzon Jackson*

John James

Nancy Johnston

Dan Johnston*

Britton Katz

Tex* and Carole Kilpatrick

William “Billy”* and Florinell Laird

Paul and Carolyn Lasseigne

Louise Briley Leake*

Betty Ley

Violet Liner*

Chip Lyman

Marjorie Malone*

Mildred Mauer*

Claxton* and Caroline* Mayo

Charles “Charlie Mc” and Kay McDonald

Hugh and Kay McDonald

Lewis Marvin McKneely*

James* and Dorothy* Mock

Shawn and Donna Murphy

Kathleen Nettleton*

Thomas I. Parks

Adele Ransom*

Lawrence and Ann Robinson

Tag Rome

Rodger Ross

Linda and Paul Sabin

Elizabeth Ann Shaw*

Brenda Hensley Smith

John and Billie* Smith

John H. Smith, III*

Leslie H. Smith

Hanna Spyker*

Charles Freeman Stamper*

Lawson and Sharon Swearingen

James Taunton*

Elee Trichel

George T.* and Mary Ellen* Walker

Jerry and Katherine Warner

Elsie Webb*

James Yeldell*

IN MEMORIAM

In retirement, Walker remained among ULM’s civic boosters and was a familiar face at Louisiana Monroe Warhawks football games and other university events.

Walker authored numerous academic and professional journal articles as well as several books on accounting and business education. Of his five copyrighted books, two were written during his retirement, The Building of a University (1991), which examines the early years of ULM, and the biographical Emy-Lou Biedenharn: Her Life and Legacy (1999).

Emy-Lou Biedenharn was a world-renowned contralto from Monroe and the daughter of Joseph A. Biedenharn, the first bottler of Coca-Cola.

In 1938, Walker married the former Mary Ellen Neal (1911–2002), his college sweetheart. They had a son, George T. Walker, Jr., of Monroe and a daughter, Ellen Claire Stephenson of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Walker died of a lengthy illness at the age of ninety-eight. In addition to his children, Walker was survived by five grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

In 1997, the Louisiana Board of Regents awarded Walker its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for his ongoing dedication to higher education. He is also honored by the Mary Ellen and George Thomas Walker Scholarship Endowment through the ULM Foundation.

THE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA MONROE ASSOCIATES

The following individuals and organizations deserve special recognition for their leadership support as University Associates. From January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2024, these Associates invested $1,000 and above to the following affiliate non-profit organizations: the ULM Foundation, the ULM Athletic Foundation, the ULM Alumni Association, and KEDM Public Radio. Our University Associates provide the majority of private support annually... we honor and thank you!

BUSINESS ASSOCIATES

ABG Professional Development Solutions

Action Mobility Services, LLC

AGRIOVUM, LLC

Alchemy LLC

Allen, Green & Williamson, CPAS, LLP

AMH Pharmaceutical Consulting LLC

AmWins Group, Inc

Anderson Community Development Foundation

Antares Ventures, LLC

Architecture + Argent Advisors

Leasing Services, LLC

Argent Financial Group, Inc.

Arkansas Capital Corporation

Atlas Integrative Medicine LLC

Aulds, Duchesne, & Griggs, LLC

B & J Pitre Pharmacy, Inc.

B&B Rentals and Investments, Inc.

Bank of Oak Ridge

Barnes & Noble College Booksellers, LLC

Bart Dornier Insurance Agency, Inc.

Bayou Park Apartments

Bayou Power Sports

Beau Rivage Resort & Casino

Ben Nelson Golf & Outdoor

Big Shot Bob Enterprise, LLC

Biomedical Research

& Innovation Park

Blue Cross of Louisiana

Boles Shafto & Leonard, LLC

Boogs & Poole

Booth Wealth Management LLC

Border Olympics, Inc.

Bradley Murchison

Kelly & Shea

BRC Therapy Services

BRF Building our Region's Future

Care Solutions, Inc.

Caridad Foundation

Carousel Recreation Centers, Inc

Bayou Bowl

Catahoula's of Monroe, LLC

Cathey Group, LLC

Central Management Company

Central Oil & Supply Corporation

Centric Federal Credit Union

Century Next Bank Ruston

Century Next Bank West Monroe

Charitable Adult Rides & Services, Inc.

CHC Partnership, LLP

Citizens Progressive Bank

City of West Monroe

Commercial Capital Bank

Como Charitable Foundation, Inc.

Contractors

Educational Trust Fund

Copeland Electric Company

Correct Commissary, LLC

Country Club of Louisiana Garden Club

Creighton Enterprises, LLC

Cross Keys Bank

Crossland Construction Company, Inc.

Crossland Heavy Contractors

CVS Health Foundation

D & H Sporting Goods

Danco Properties, LLC

David Lane Beaird & Associates Inc

Davidson Living Trust

DB Real Estate

Delta Healthcare Management, LLC

Discover-Monroe

West Monroe

Donald Farms Inc.

Downtown Art Alliance

DRP Masonry LLC

Drum Corps International

Eddie Flanigen Builders Inc

Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM)

Entergy Services, Inc.

Evans Oil Company, Inc.

Fabulous Fabric

Farmers Grain Terminal, Inc.

Federico Baseball Camp LLC

First Horizon Bank

First United Methodist Church Flair Jewelers

Fontel Foundation Forth Insurance

Friends of Black Bayou, Inc.

Graphic Packaging International

Greater Houston Community Foundation

Greg Manley, Jr. Insurance Agency, LLC

Gretchen Stangier Inc

Hand Construction, LLC

HCH, Inc.

Hearn Properties LLC

Holyfield Construction

Homeland Federal Savings Bank

Hopkins Dermatology

IBM

Inspections Unlimited Inspired by Giving

Insurance Systems, Inc.

J. E. Dupuy Flooring & Acoustical, Inc.

Jackson Construction

James Machine

Works, LLC

Jamie Dendy Consulting

Jay Russell Campaign

JBJ Foundation, Inc.

Jean and Saul A. Mintz Foundation

John F. Bruscato, Attorney at Law, LLC

John Rea Realty

Johnny's Pizza House

JRF OUTREACH

WILTEW

Kappa Kappa Psi

Key Marketing Solutions LLC

Kimpa Hayes Boyd, CPA, LLC

Kinetix Broadband LLC

Kitty DeGree Foundation

KMK Properties LLC

KNOE TV

KTVE-Channel 10 & KARD - Fox 14

LA Construction Group, LLC

LA Society of HealthSystem Pharmacists

LA State Licensing Board for Contractors

Lafayette Parish School System

Land 3 Architect

Larry Tubbs Farms

Learfield Communications, Inc

Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation

Lincoln Builders, Inc.

Louisiana BAM Fastpitch 98 Inc

Louisiana Board of Pharmacy

Louisiana Plastic Industries, Inc.

Louisiana Turf

Company-Celebrity Greens

Louisiana Wholesale Drug Company, Inc.

LuxGive LLC

Mabile's Corner

Pharmacy

Magic Grill, LLC

Marc Mashaw Campaign

Marion State Bank

Marsala Beverage, Inc.

Martinez Chiropractic

Mary Goss Charities

McKay Consulting

Meredith Dental, LLC

Michael McFerren Builders Inc

Mid South Extrusion, Inc.

Mildred Summers Maurer Testamentary Trust

Mixon Energy Consultants, LLC

Mixon, Carroll & Frazier, PLLC

Monroe Chamber of Commerce

Monroe Housing Authority

Monroe Kiwanis Club

Monroe Symphony Orchestra, Inc.

Monroe/West

Monroe Business & Professional Women's Org.

Morehouse Community Medical Centers, Inc.

Moss Eyecare

MWN, Inc

National Christian Foundation Alabama

National Public Radio, Inc. (NPR)

NE Delta Human Services Authority

NELA Dental

NELA Insurance

Agency LLC

Newman, Oliveaux, & Magee, LLP

Noe Asset Management, LLC

Northeast Louisiana

Arts Council

Northminster Church

Oestriecher & Company, CPAs

Opierx, Inc

Origin Bank

Ouachita Parish Police Jury

Ouachita Parish Women's Republican Club

Par Three Properties, LLC

Parkwood West Properties, LLC

Peregrine Corporation

Pinnacle Family Health

Poverty Point

Heritage Site

Pramukh West Monroe LLC

Pritchett Plantation

Progressive Bank

R&G Group LLC

R2 Rentals LLC

Randall's Captain Avery Seafood

Raymond Enterprises of Louisiana, LLC

Recland Realty LLC

Region 8 LaSTEM Center

Regions Bank

Reliable Auto Brokers

Robertson Fruit & Produce, Inc.

Rockland R. Burks Inc.

Ron Bush Insurance Agency, Inc.

Ronald C. Stratton Jr. DDS

Scott Powerline & Utility Equipment

Shastri West

Monroe Inc DBA

Home 2 Suites

Shawn Murphy

Insurance Agency, Inc.

Shriji West Monroe Inc DBA Hampton Inn

Silas Simmons

Southern Farm and Timber Corporation

St. Francis Medical Center

Stefan Green Realty & Construction, Inc.

Stephanie Smith Campaign

Sterling Surplus Underwriters

Tag Rome Insurance Agency, Inc.

TBA Studio Architecture

The Carpenter Health Network

The Children's Coalition for Northeast Louisiana, Inc.

The Cubhouse Early Learning & Afterschool Care Centers, LLC

The Humane Society Adoption Center of Monroe, Inc.

The Louisiana Cancer Foundation

The Martin Foundation

The Radio People

The Reserve on Bayou Desiard, LLC

The Toggery

The Tyler Law Firm, LLC

Thomas H. & Mayme P. Scott Foundation

Thrift Town Healthmart LLC

Tom Scott, Jr. Foundation

Towne Pharmacy, LLC

Traxler Healthcare, Inc.

Twin City Outdoor Equipment, Inc.

Twin City Shopping Center LLC

ULM School of Construction IAC Inc

University of

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

PRESIDENT

Maggie Sims Generoso (BS ’09, ME ’13)

VICE PRESIDENT – ADMINISTRATION

Kandice Nicole Hunter (BS ’09, BSN ’13, MSN-AGPCNP ’19)

VICE PRESIDENT – OPERATIONS

K. Shawn McCoy (BA ’85, MBA ’87)

VICE PRESIDENT – FINANCE

Ernest Finch (BBA ’09)

SECRETARY

Lacy Durham (BBA ’01)

PAST-PRESIDENT

Joseph Beard (BS ’09)

VICE PRESIDENTS AT-LARGE

Courtnie Beach (BGS ’08)

Robert Brown (BBA ’13)

Erick Burton (BBA ’21)

Dr. Brian Bush (BA ’06, ME ’13)

Twainna Calhoun (MA Ed ’99)

Josh Carroll (BA ’08)

DeJaneiro “DJ” Davis(BBA ’99, MAT’13, ME ’18)

Kalena Jackson (BS ’17)

Nicholas LeBas (BS Pharmacy ’97)

Javvi Lewis (BBA ’02)

Dr. Elliott McGlory (BBA ’95)

Nirali Patel (BA ’18, MPA ’20)

D’Mario Payne (BS ’08)

Tim Rightsell (BBA ’97)

David R. Smith (BGS ’82)

Dr. Areah Thompson (BA ’19)

RETIREMENTS

SEPTEMBER 2024

Faye F. Ainsworth

NOVEMBER 2024

Linda W. Pettes

DECEMBER 2024

Charles R. Hughes

JANUARY 2025

Alma F. Dunn

Lindsey S. Wilkerson

Vivian E. Broughton

James E. Tramble

Patricia Beacht

FEBRUARY 2025

Aubrey Ashton

APRIL 2025

Keith G. Richard

MAY 2025

Jose L. Cordova

Blair C. David

Candace L. Gandy

Donna R. Glaze

Jay A. Lewis

JUNE 2025

Sarah C. Byargeon

Trevor F. Melder

Carl L. Thameling

Nancy C. Purcell

Ruth E. Smith

Paul W. Sylvester

JULY 2025

Sharon Brown

Norma F. Flanagan

Felicia A. Henderson

Lisa F. Miller

AUGUST 2025

Jeremy Bell

SEPTEMBER 2025

Judith Naslund

IN MEMORIAM

David A. Adams

Ray O. Alexander

Nike P. Anderson

Leo D. Andrews

Rozel Arant

Susan B. Ator

Faye D. Avard

Sue A. Avery

Robert C. Bain

Ellen D. Balfour

Donald R. Ballard

Michelle L. Bass

Harold G. Bates

Neil J. Baudin

Florence Biggs

John G. Biglane

Brenda T. Blackman

Vicki M. Bonilla

Merry A. Bonin

William M. Bourn

Harry Boyd

Martha C. Brewer

Billie F. Brooks

Karen S. Brooks

Robert M. Brooks

Grover P. Brown

Jeffrey L. Brown

Nellen H. Brunson

Dona R. Bryan

Edwin R. Bryan

Gary R. Bryan

Sherry L. Buchanan

William E. Burns

Joyce A. Case

Marcus R. Clark

Dollie Clayton

Violet K. Collins

William A. Colvin

Robert D. Compton

Lloyd C. Coon

Jon A. Corty

William G. Covington

Robert H. Crocker

Jason O. Crockett

John G. Cutler

Virgil P. Dalrymple

Vivanae Daniels

Lawrence J. Danna

Alice Davis

Debbie M. Davis

Lula Day

Thurman B. Dickey

Mark K. Dixon

Marie B. Easterling

Tommy L. Easterling

Larry M. Ellerman

Michael C. Ellis

John M. English

Carol F. Fisher

Linda L. Ford

Gary T. Fusons

Martin P. Gilchrist

Andrea L. Griggs

James J. Griggs

George W. Grubbs

Donna L. Guyton

Dalton K. Harrell

LaDonna Harrison

Janice S. Hart

James R. Hearn

Lowery Herrington

Elizabeth R. Herzog

Karen A. Hillhouse

Jessie A. Hilton

Constance H. Humble

W. E. Hunt

Pauline H. Irvin

Dolores W. Johnson

Edna E. Johnson

Beth Johnston

Paul D. Jones

Roger F. Jones

Mary C. Kelly

Robert L. Kilpatrick

Marshall W. Kitchens

Lawrence D. Kulcke

Sean T. Landry

James J. Laudadio

Roxanna M. Leblanc

James E. Lied

Paula J. Lofton

Cynthia J. Lupo

Dorothy W. Machen

Robert F. Machen

Joseph A. Maggio

Kenneth W. Mann

Wayne J. Matherne

Lisa Matthews

Steve A. Mattison

Semmie B. McAdams

John D. McClendon

Rosalyn H. McDuffie

Danelle C. McGee

Dianne McGee

Doyce G. McGuffee

Randy D. McKinney

Riley E. McMillan

Joseph C. Miciotto

Leon S. Miletello

Donald J. Miller

Evelyn S. Miller

Sharon S. Moore

William B. Morrison

Biddy D. Norris

Albert L. Ott

Michael T. Parker

Gary E. Parrish

Bobby R. Pedigo

Jeweldeen Perry

Henry P. Pitard

Linda Plunk

Elizabeth Pogue

Earl Price

Agabia G. Rangel

Carleen G. Reeves

John C. Reynolds

Donna A. Rhorer

Linda Rice

Margaret W. Rice

Mary V. Richardson

William E. Roark

Bobby J. Simmons

Donald R. Smith

Joan E. Smith

Kenneth E. Smith

Robert C. Sparks

Michael W. Stennett

Glenn P. Stewart

Lou Taylor

Jennifer T. Terral

Sarah Thomason

Ronald D. Thrift

John K. Tipton

John H. Tompkins

Nancy W. Trapp

Laurie H. Traweek

Doris Trichel

Sheryl L. Turnbow

Linda W. Waalk

Aubrey Wade Faye Wade

Tanya M. Walker

Willard F. Washburne

Dewey E. Weatherford

Kenneth R. Wells

Jenell W. Williams

Nisha K. Wink

John E. Yerger

Complete bios are available at alumni.ulm.edu/page/board

John W. Hall

James R. Harmon

Lynn H. Robertson

Vickie C. Robertson

Jerry E. Sandifer