Tech Action Arkansas Tech University Alumni Association
Spring 2009 Col. Carl Baswell inducted into Hall of Distinction. See pages 4-5.
Tech Action
We need your current e-mail addresses The world that we live in continues to grow smaller and
The cost savings associated with shifting toward more
smaller. Advances in communication have made it possible
digital communications could be significant and allow us to
to remain in constant contact with friends, family and
dedicate those resources to other projects.
business partners.
So, we are asking all Arkansas Tech alumni and friends
At the Arkansas Tech Alumni Office, we always work to
to send us their e-mail addresses. Rest assured that we will
ensure our communications are interesting and informative.
not share your e-mail address with a third party, nor will we
Tech Action is now in its 45th year of sharing the latest news
overwhelm your inbox with a constant stream of messages.
from Arkansas Tech with our alumni and friends. What we will do is add your updated e-mail address to And while Tech Action continues to be our primary means
our database and then communicate with you when there is
of communication with our constituents, we are also in
an upcoming event that we believe you would be interested
touch with emerging methods of sharing Tech news.
in attending or a piece of news that we want to share.
Within the past 24 months, we have developed a
The end result will be that Tech alumni and friends
presence on social networking sites such as Facebook,
will be better informed and our Tech family will be better
MySpace and Twitter. We have also recently redesigned
connected.
TechTies (www.techties.atu.edu) so that it now serves as the primary online home for the Tech Alumni Association.
If you have any questions, please call the Alumni Office at (479) 968-0242.
If you have not visited TechTies in recent weeks, click on
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it today. Not only can you catch up with old classmates, but
Tech Action
the new TechTies offers users updates on Tech news and an
Otherwise, you can send an e-mail to alumni@atu.edu and we will save your e-mail address in our database.
opportunity to submit class notes for the Action.
We hope that you enjoy this edition of Tech Action. Best
The Alumni Office’s next major objective in our efforts
wishes to all for a great summer!
to utilize modern technology is to increase the quantity and quality of our e-mail address database. There is no more cost effective or instant form of communication than e-mail. As time goes on, our ability to obtain more valid e-mail
tech
addresses for our alumni and friends will determine if we are
Angela DeWitt Bonds ‘95
able to become less dependent upon mailing printed pieces.
Director of Alumni Relations
Alumni Association Board of Directors
President Claude Smith ‘76
President-Elect Howard Ritchie ‘70
Stan Graves ‘70 12/09
Shirley Dodd ‘59 12/10
Chad Weisler ‘92 12/10
Dixie Gossett ‘70 & ‘74 12/11
Alvin Lievsay ‘72 12/09
Randy Joe Hamilton ‘76 12/10
Philip Alexander ‘89 12/11
Tommy Johnston ‘91 12/11
Stephanie Strack Mathis ‘94 12/09
Mike King ‘74 12/10
Doug Brown ‘06 12/11
Raymond Molden ‘96 12/11
Sharon Dixon Steele ‘74 12/09
Layton Lee ‘92 12/10
Jimmy Cunningham ‘75 12/11
Cara Hammond Witherspoon ‘78 12/11
Peggy Lawless Walter ‘80, ‘87, ‘06 12/09 Jim Murphy ‘71 12/10
catch up with an old friend today www.techties.atu.edu
Past President Tom Reynolds ‘70
Kellye Holley Cannon ‘80 12/10
Robert Ford ‘86 12/11
Donna Cotton Parker ‘73 12/10
Brian Bass, Ozark Campus Rep. *Class year, term expiration
Tech Action, Volume 45, No. 2. Arkansas Tech University Alumni Association, Alumni House, Russellville, AR 72801 Director of Alumni Relations Angela DeWitt Bonds Coordinator of Young Alumni Alison Parks Coordinator of Alumni Communications and Activities Kelly Thornton Bostick Alumni Office Administrative Assistant Terry Holland-Finley
Editorial Committee Angela DeWitt Bonds, Jayne Jones, Julie Nebben Morgan, Susie Nicholson, Sam Strasner Asst. Director of New Media Carrie Harris Phillips Sports Information Director Ben Greenberg
Cover & Inside Photography Steve Newby Contributing Photographer Antonius Armand E-mail address alumni@atu.edu Web site http://alumni.atu.edu
Tech Action is published quarterly by the Arkansas Tech Alumni Association, 1313 N. Arkansas Ave., Russellville, AR 72801. It is sent to alumni, parents, friends and faculty/staff of Arkansas Tech University. We welcome manuscripts and photographs from our readers. Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you would like your originals returned. Parents, if your son or daughter attended Tech and is no longer living at this address, please notify our office of his or her new address. Address updates can be submitted to the Arkansas Tech Office of Alumni Services by calling (479) 968-0242 or by sending e-mail to alumni@atu.edu.
Alu mni News
Homecoming 2009 plans rounding into form Plans are well underway to make this year’s Centennial Homecoming a special event as we celebrate the 100th birthday of Arkansas Tech. In addition to the events listed at right, members of the Class of 1959 are planning their 50-year reunion. The committee wishes to invite all former students who were members of the class at any time. Tentative Class of 1959 reunion plans include a dinner or luncheon, group seating at the football game and the presentation of a class gift to the university. For more information about the Class of 1959 reunion, contact Bob Edwards at (479) 967-8720 or by e-mail to bobandcarolyn@suddenlink.net. Check your mail this summer for more Homecoming 2009 information!
What You Can Look Forward To........ Friday, October 16 Homecoming Golf Classic Russellville Country Club
11 a.m. Lunch Noon Shotgun Start
Ladies Event at Lake Point Alumni & Friends Reception Russellville Country Club
Noon 8 p.m.-Midnight
Saturday, October 17 Young Alumni Softball Tourney Pleasant View Park
8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Tailgate/Reunion Groups Plaza Outside Thone Stadium
Pre-Game
Arkansas Tech vs. West Georgia Thone Stadium at Buerkle Field
6 p.m.
And Much More....... Check www.techties.atu.edu throughout the summer for updates and more fun activities for Arkansas Tech Homecoming 2009! Call (479) 968-0242 or e-mail alumni@atu.edu for more information.
Spring 2009
3
Co ve r S to ry
2009 Hall of
Col. Carl Franklin Baswell Distinguished Alumnus Thirty-two years of active duty in the United States Armed Services followed by a successful career in the private sector have provided Colonel Carl Franklin Baswell with a lifetime of memories and experiences few can match. His service to the United States took him to far away places like Panama and Korea, and to some of the most noteworthy datelines of World War II. He received the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart Medal, the Legion of Merit Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster and the Air Force Commendation Medal.
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Tech Action
He has even participated in the famous running of the bulls in Pamplona, Spain. But his heart never strayed too far from his alma mater, Arkansas Tech. Col. Baswell received the highest honor that Arkansas Tech can bestow upon an alumnus on May 16 when he was inducted into the university’s Hall of Distinction. Baswell was the 100th individual to enter the Hall of Distinction under the Distinguished Alumnus category. Coincidentally, his induction fell during the 100-year anniversary of Arkansas Tech University. “I don’t think I’m worth it,” said Baswell. “I’m very proud to be the 100th, and to represent not only myself, but the Class of 1942.
“My only regret is that I could not have some of my fellow Class of 1942 members here for the ceremony, but my buddies from that group are all gone, most of them for a number of years,” continued Baswell. “I’ll always remember the presentation and the bio that was read at the ceremony. I’ll be back here in the fall to watch football and watch our university continue to grow and prosper.” Col. Baswell was born on May 18, 1922, in Heber Springs to Ross and Ruby Baswell. He graduated from Heber Springs High School in 1940, and it was a fellow Heber Springs graduate who persuaded Baswell to attend Arkansas Tech. “There was a young man from Heber Springs by the name of Charles Ward, and he was the editor of the Arka Tech (newspaper),” said Baswell. “He had encouraged me to come over to Tech, and I received a scholarship because I graduated third in my class. I went over in 1940, and to sustain myself I worked in NYA (National Youth Administration) at Arkansas Tech. “I remember we were permitted to earn up to 15 cents per hour, and we could earn up to $17.50 per month. Fifteen of that went toward our subsistence, and we got to put the other $2.50 in our pocket.” In addition to the countless improvements to Tech’s campus and facilities, Baswell noted one other difference between the Tech he attended in the early 1940s and the one he visits today.
f Distinction
Cover St ory
“When I attended Tech, I don’t recall any students owning automobiles,” said Baswell. “Now you go over there, and it looks like the parking lot at Little Rock National Airport. There just weren’t many automobiles around in those days, and so everything we did was done right there on campus.” Baswell participated in intramural sports and was the scorekeeper at Wonder Boys’ basketball games in the armory, now known as the Stroupe Building. He studied engineering at Tech, a field that had captured his attention at a young age. “When I was growing up and just very small, they were doing the preparation for the possibility of putting a dam out on the Little Red River,” said Baswell. “The engineers were here doing that work, and they took me out to the work site and I had an opportunity to watch them do their drilling. I became interested, and I wanted to be an engineer.” Baswell graduated from Tech in 1942, just a few months after the event that helped determine the course of his life and the lives of many young men from that era. “I was at Tech when Pearl Harbor happened,” said Baswell. “I can remember coming out of the Rialto Theater in downtown Russellville on Dec. 7, 1941, and someone told me that Pearl Harbor had been bombed. I didn’t even know where that was. I had only left Arkansas once before I joined the Army, but once I got in I was able to travel and see things I’d never seen before. I liked that travel, and I decided right there and then that I was going to make the Army a career.” He entered the United States Army as a volunteer soldier on Sept. 13, 1942. Baswell took basic training at Camp Callan, Calif., and was sent to Camp Davis, Wilmington, N.C., to attend Officer Candidates School. On April 21, 1943, Baswell was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Army Air Defense Artillery. The following weeks and months saw him serve on active duty in Panama. He returned to the United States in the fall of 1943 and was given a branch transfer to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers based on his education at Arkansas Tech. Baswell was assigned to the 9th Armored Engineer Battalion, 9th Armored Division, Fort Polk, La. With World War II entering its critical final stages in the European theater, the division was sent to England and made an administrative landing at Normandy, France, in September 1944. Three months later, Baswell was wounded during the largest land battle that the United States participated in during World War II, the Battle of the Bulge. Approximately 119,000 men, including 19,000 Americans, perished in the battle. Baswell was evacuated to England until near the end of the war in 1945.
“As a young lieutenant like I was, you’re not too high up on the totem pole,” said Baswell of his World War II experience. “I was just focused on what I was doing.” The years after WW II brought a wide variety of experiences to Baswell’s life. He helped oversee the reconstruction of numerous destroyed bridges on the German Autobahn, served in the Korean War and returned to the United States in 1951 as regimental operations officer for the engineer specialist school at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. He later taught at Fort Belvoir, Va., and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from Texas A&M University in 1956. He then served a stint with the Army Corps of Engineers in the Little Rock district office, where he helped with the construction of the Greers Ferry Dam near his hometown of Heber Springs, the same project that had inspired him to become an engineer as a young boy. From there, he went on to Oklahoma and Missouri, where he worked on the construction of United States Air Force missile sites during the height of the Cold War. Assignments at Fort Leavenworth in Kansas and the U.S. Army’s European headquarters in Heidelberg, Germany, followed. After more than a quarter-century of service, Baswell achieved his career goal when he was promoted to Colonel in 1969. He retired in June 1974 after 32 years of active duty. Col. Baswell entered the private sector after his retirement from the U.S. Armed Services. He was director of international operations for KLEE KG, a German international construction and service firm, from 1974-92. Today, he remains an active engineering and business consultant. “People ask me, if I had it to do over again, what would I do differently,” said Col. Baswell. “I wouldn’t do anything differently. If you change one thing, you make a mistake somewhere else. I wouldn’t change any of it.”
Spring 2009
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Te c h C ent en n ia l
100th Birt 100...And Still Going Strong Arkansas Tech marked its 100th birthday with a Centennial Celebration Weekend April 16-19. Events included a combined concert from the Tech choir and band, a preview of a new exhibit about the university’s history at the Arkansas Tech Museum, a Centennial 5K Run and the 100th Birthday Bash inside Tucker Coliseum.
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Tech Action
Like most other events inside the Natural State this spring, rain played havoc with the weekend’s schedule. However, nothing could dampen the enthusiasm and spirit of Tech alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends as they turned out to celebrate the 100th anniversary of a place that means something special to each of them. Enjoy these photos from the Centennial Celebration Weekend, and make plans now to join us Oct. 16-17 for a Centennial Homecoming that promises more fun, more memories and more time to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Arkansas Tech University.
thday Bash
Tech Cent ennia l
Spring 2009
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Te c h C ent en n ia l
tech
Tech Timeline: 1930-1949
Throughout the duration of the Arkansas Tech University centennial celebration, Tech Action will take a look back at some of the events that have shaped the institution during its first 100 years. In this issue, we look at the 1930s and 1940s. June 1930 High school-level academic work ceases on the campus. February 1931 A crowd of 3,000 packs the Armory to see Will Rogers perform on the Tech campus. April 1931 Women’s dormitory named Parker Hall in honor of Bessie Parker, a professor in the Home Economics Department. J.W. Hull Tech President, 1932-67
Fall 1931 Arkansas Tech wins its first Arkansas Intercollegiate Conference (AIC) football championship with an overall record of 7-1-2 and a conference record of 5-0-2. January 1932 J.W. Hull named the school’s eighth president.
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Tech Action
Fall 1933 Remodeling work on the residence hall now known as Wilson Hall (named for Judge R.B. Wilson, a Board of Trustees member who was instrumental in bringing the school to Russellville) is completed. May 23, 1934 The name of the school newspaper is changed from the Tuba Agricolae to the Arka Tech. October 1934 A new home grandstand at Buerkle Field is completed. January 1935 President Hull and his family move into the new President’s Home. Today, the building serves as the Alumni House.
Alfred J. Crabaugh Tech Academic Dean, 1929-69
October 1935 Caraway Hall is dedicated on Dad’s Day in honor the late U.S. Senator Thaddeus Caraway. Fall 1935 Tech (8-0-1 overall, 6-0-1 conference) is AIC football champ. August 1936 Construction of the new library, now known as Tomlinson Hall, is completed. It was named in honor of Professor Everett Tomlinson, teacher of horticulture, science, botany and biology, in 1954. August 1937 Construction of a new physical education building and student commons building is completed. Student Eugene Rowden won $1 for suggesting the name chosen by the students for the new building — Techionery. September 1937 Lights are installed at Buerkle Field and Tech hosts its first night football game.
September 1939 Hughes Hall (named for Professor Claude Hughes, teacher of agronomy) opens as a dormitory. Fall 1939 Arkansas Tech (7-0-2 overall, 2-0-2 conference) wins the AIC football title. March 1940 Construction of Williamson Hall is completed. It was named in honor of band director Marvin Williamson in 1954. February 1941 Life magazine publishes an article about 104 National Guardsmen from Arkansas Tech who were called up as a group to go into training with the 206th Coast Artillery. Fall 1945 Arkansas Tech begins a golden age of Wonder Boys football by winning the AIC championship with an undefeated record of 8-0 overall and 6-0 in conference. Tech goes on to win five consecutive AIC football titles from 1945-49, accumulating an overall record of 42-5-1 during those years. 1947 Dean Hall is constructed. It was named in honor of Professor Herman Dean, teacher of engineering, in 1954. February 1947 Radio station KXRJ makes its debut on the Tech campus. May 1948 The Board of Trustees approves a recommendation that Arkansas Tech should become a four-year, degree-granting institution. The third year of college work was offered for the first time since the 1920s in 1948-49, and the fourth year of college work was offered in 1949-50. July 1948 The post-World War II “trailer cities” that sprang up on the campus to house veterans studying at Tech and their families hit their peak with 151 mobile homes in three locations. By June 1955, the university had constructed enough permanent housing facilities to remove the last of the mobile homes from campus. 1949 The class offerings at Arkansas Tech are re-organized into eight academic divisions — agriculture, business administration, education, engineering, fine arts, languages and literature, science and mathematics and social studies — and one vocational division. Winter 1949 Arkansas Tech (17-4 overall, 13-3 conference) captures its first AIC men’s basketball championship. The Wonder Boys go on to capture seven consecutive AIC crowns between 1949-55.
WILL YOU SHARE YOUR TECH MEMORABILIA?
Winter 2009
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Call (479) 968-0332 or visit www.atu.edu/centennial to learn how you can share your Tech-related items and memories during the Arkansas Tech Centennial Celebration
A lum ni News
Alumni Board presidents take the podium Arkansas Tech University commemorated its 100-year anniversary and its musical heritage with a combined band and choir concert at Witherspoon Auditorium on Thursday, April 16. The concert included appearances by four guest conductors (photographed, from left) — H.L. Shepherd of Russellville, Claude Smith of Searcy, Tom Reynolds of Sherwood and Ron Bailey of Hot Springs. Smith is the current Arkansas Tech Alumni Association president, while Bailey, Reynolds and Shepherd are among the organization’s past presidents. All four men are products of the Arkansas Tech Music Department. To view video and hear audio from the concert, visit www.arkansastechnews.com and search for “Centennial Concert.”
Alumni Association ready for the ballparks The Arkansas Tech Alumni Association will continue its
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growing summer-time tradition of visiting both of our state’s Tech Action
minor league baseball stadiums during the coming months. Tech alumni and friends will converge at Arvest Ballpark in Springdale on Saturday, June 13, for a 7 p.m. game between the Northwest Arkansas Naturals and the Arkansas Travelers. The festivities will begin in Springdale at 6 p.m. with an all-you-can-eat buffet of hamburgers, hot dogs, baked beans, potato salad and soft drinks. Tickets for the evening at Arvest Ballpark are $20 per person. Children age 3 and under will be
Night with the Nats: Saturday, June 13
admitted free. On Saturday, Aug. 8, the Tech Alumni Association will make its annual trek to Dickey-Stephens Park in North Little Rock. First pitch between the Travs and the visiting Northwest Arkansas Naturals will be at 7:10 p.m., but the fun will start at 6 p.m. with an all-you-can-eat buffet of traditional picnic fare. Tickets for the game and buffet in North Little Rock are $15 for adults, $10 for kids 10 and under and free for children age 2 and under. Call (479) 968-0242 or send e-mail to alumni@atu.edu for more information or to purchase your tickets to both events.
Night with the Travs: Saturday, August 8
Have you seen the new and improved TechTies? Check it out today. www.techties.atu.edu
Alu mni News
Final exams bring students, alumni together Twenty-nine Arkansas Tech graduates continued one of the Alumni Association’s richest and most beneficial traditions by volunteering their time to provide Tech students with donuts, coffee and lemonade during final exams week at the close of the spring 2009 semester. Among the alumni who gave of their time were: Jennifer Brigance Aday (‘02), Jeff Aulgur (‘08), B.J. Bayer (‘01), Larry Brown (‘72), Brittny Brough Daubenheyer (‘03), Jock Davis (‘50), Shirley Drewry Dodd (‘59), Baldy Faulkner (‘67), Tommy Fields (‘07), Monique Forehand (‘07), Emily Fulmer (‘08), Luke Heffley (‘94), Tonya Ballard Hurley (‘89), Lu “Tee” Jin (‘08),
Brittny Brough Daubenheyer
Carolyn Kistler (‘08), Jessica Soar Lambert (‘00), Azura Morgan (‘09), Courtney Mullen (‘08), Jim Murphy (‘71), Carrie Harris Phillips (‘05), Justin Price (‘01), Howard Ritchie (‘70), Jennifer Enderlin Saxton (‘99), Corinne Smith (‘02), Brandie Soar (‘04), Janna Thompson (‘03), Brittany Vanderpool (‘08), Jimmy Warren (‘04) and Alice Bean Wells (‘88). The Arkansas Tech Alumni Office coordinates the donut project at the end of every semester. To volunteer, call (479) 968-0242 or send e-mail to alumni@atu.edu. Spring 2009
Jimmy Warren
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B.J. Bayer, Baldy Faulkner Lu “Tee”Jin, Jock Davis
Shirley Drewry Dodd
Tommy Fields Brandie Soar, Jessica Soar Lambert
To day ’ s Te c h
Kreimeier, Stolarz named Tech’s top seniors Matt Kreimeier of Stuttgart and Christina Stolarz of
Kreimeier’s role as SAB chair made him a leader for some
Murfreesboro are the outstanding senior students at Arkansas
of Tech’s most high-profile events, including spring concerts in
Tech University for the 2008-09 academic year.
2008 and 2009 and the Family Day 2008 concert.
Kreimeier received the Alfred J. Crabaugh Award for
Stolarz majored in both accounting and management/
outstanding male senior and Stolarz received the Margaret
marketing at Arkansas Tech. She served as president and
Young Award for outstanding female senior during the
vice president of the Marketing Club and as a member of the
university’s annual Student Leadership Recognition Banquet
Presidential Leadership Cabinet.
at the Chambers Cafeteria East Dining Hall on Monday, April 20.
“This honor makes everything worthwhile because it
tells me that I really did make an impact on my fellow
Kreimeier majored in information technology. He served as
students,” said Stolarz, daughter of Diana and Tom Stolarz of
chairperson of the Student Activities Board (SAB), as a resident
Murfreesboro. “I’ve loved my time here at Tech and would not
assistant and as a member of the Student Government
trade it for anything. I’ve grown so much, and it has made me
Association and Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE).
more confident in myself. I feel ready to go out in the work
force and be successful.”
“This award means so much, it’s hard to sum it all up,” said Kreimeier, son of Theresa and Marvin Kreimeier of Stuttgart.
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Tech Action
Stolarz is a member of Beta Gamma Sigma and was on
“It’s been great to have the support of our faculty and staff, as
the Donald W. Reynolds Governor’s Cup team from Arkansas
well as the students that I work and study with every day. When
Tech that reached the semifinal round of competition in 2008.
I first came here, I was scared and did not do too much. But I
She was active in the Student Government Association, the
got involved, and it has caused me to want to go on and earn a
Residence Hall Association, the Accounting Club and Students
master’s degree in student affairs.”
in Free Enterprise.
Tech wins second straight SIFE regional title Arkansas Tech successfully
SIFE teams create economic
defended its Students in Free
opportunities in their communities
Enterprise (SIFE) regional
by organizing outreach projects
championship in competition at
that focus on market economics,
Dallas, Texas, on Friday, April 3.
entrepreneurship, personal financial success skills and
After a full day of observing
business ethics.
SIFE teams from 52 universities,
the panel returned with the
During the 2008-09
decision that Arkansas Tech was a
academic year, the Arkansas
regional champion for a second consecutive year and for the
Tech SIFE organization has participated in programs that
fourth time since 2003.
educated members of both the on-campus and off-campus communities about cultural differences in business, job
“Our team did exactly what I expected them to do,” said Dr.
interview skills, the basics of banking, the current state of
Linda Bean, who has served as the Arkansas Tech SIFE team
the economy, environmental responsibility, student loans and
faculty advisor since its inception in 2001. “They performed
résumé writing.
professionally and I was very pleased with how we presented ourselves. The students did wonderful. They stayed up late
Arkansas Tech SIFE members have also gone into the
on Thursday night putting the finishing touches on our
community to teach computer skills to senior citizens through
presentation, and it all paid off.”
the Area Agency on Aging, partner with local retailer Bath Junkie for a marketing plan and help students at Pottsville High
SIFE is an organization for business students with member
School organize a career fair.
universities in 41 countries. In the United States alone, there are 15,398 students currently active in the organization on 646 campuses.
For more information about the Tech SIFE program, contact Dr. Bean at (479) 968-0393 or lbean@atu.edu.
Tod ay’s Tech
Shure crowned as 54th Miss Arkansas Tech Junior Naomi Shure of Alma won the 54th annual Miss
With the crown comes a two-semester tuition scholarship to
Arkansas Tech University Scholarship Pageant at Witherspoon
Arkansas Tech, $3,000 in gift certificates from area merchants
Auditorium on Friday, March 6.
and the opportunity to represent Tech in the Miss Arkansas
Shure won the swimsuit competition and the CenturyTel interview competition She tied with junior Shanna Collins of Pottsville for the Nona Dirksmeyer Talent Award.
2009 Pageant this summer in Hot Springs. In all, More than $8,000 in scholarships and $7,000 in gifts were presented to 12 contestants in the 2009 Miss Tech Pageant.
Shure was also presented with the audience appeal award and the Miss Congeniality prize.
Hannah Williamson, a freshman from Russellville, was first runner-up. Sophomore Whitley Robertson of Pottsville (second
The daughter of Bill Shure and Julia Cress, Shure gave a
runner-up), freshman Victoria Costley of Russellville (third
vocal performance of “And I Am Telling You” as her talent. Her
runner-up) and Collins (fourth runner-up) rounded out the top
critical issue was promoting domestic violence awareness.
five.
Student group donates computers to school A technology recycling drive
“It blows my mind that we
by a group of Arkansas Tech
were able to answer the needs of
University students has resulted
the students at Johnson County
in the donation of 18 refurbished
Westside in just a few days,” said Dr.
computers to Johnson County
Pat Buford, head of the Arkansas
Westside High School in Coal Hill.
Tech Department of Electrical
Engineering and faculty advisor to
Tech students used parts from
the ATU CONNECT group.
donated computers collected in January to build the 18 desktop computers.
“The students at Coal Hill were so thankful and grateful,” continued
Buford. “They were anxious to help
The group, known as ATU
us unload the van, and the next
CONNECT, was involved in a
period’s class walked in the room
year-long project to collect laptop
with their mouths wide open in
computers, refurbish them and send
surprise.”
them to children in Guatemala.
For more information about
But when several functional desktop units were donated for
assisting in the ATU CONNECT effort or donating a used laptop
recycling in January, the group decided it wanted to help a local
computer for the Guatemala project, call (479) 968-0338 or
school as well.
send e-mail to pbuford@atu.edu.
Arkansas Tech wins prize at Governor’s Cup Arkansas Tech captured the prize for best undergraduate agriculture related business plan in the 2009 Donald W. Reynolds Governor’s Cup. Arkansas Tech’s winning entry was submitted by (photographed, from left) Nathanael Hancock, Kyle Davis and Kyle Castro. Dr. Stephen Jones, assistant professor of management, served as the group’s faculty advisor. Tech’s team won the award and a $5,000 prize for their Earth N’ Vessels idea, which would offer environmentallyresponsible methods for waste disposal and composting.
Spring 2009
13
To day ’ s Te c h
National Symphony Orchestra picks Parker Philip Parker, associate professor of music at Arkansas
Parker has composed more than 40 pieces of music. His
Tech University, has been selected to compose a piece for the
works have been performed at conventions of the International
National Symphony Orchestra.
Clarinet Society, the International Trumpet Guild and the
Parker, a member of the Tech faculty since 1977, is one of three music education professionals nationwide selected
A past composer-in-residence for the Fort Smith Symphony,
to compose a chamber music work this year as part of the
Parker’s awards have included an Arkansas Arts Council
National Symphony Orchestra’s American Residency program.
fellowship, two prizes from the National Flute Association and
Once complete, Parker’s piece will be premiered by the National Symphony Orchestra at the John F. Kennedy
the Arkansas Tech Excellence in Scholarship award. Tyler White of the University of Nebraska at Lincoln
Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. Parker will
and John Fitz Rogers of the University of South Carolina at
be present for both the rehearsal and performance of his
Columbia were the other composers chosen to create a piece
composition.
this year for the National Symphony Orchestra’s American
“I’m a percussion teacher more than a composer,” said Parker. “It’s always been something I enjoy when I have the spare time. For me, it’s all about fun.”
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Percussive Arts Society.
Residency program. For more information about the National Symphony Orchestra, visit www.nationalsymphony.org.
Rickard awarded professor emeritus status Tech Action
Former faculty member Dr. Donald E. Rickard
Rickard taught courses in physical science,
was granted the title of professor emeritus by the
astronomy, chemistry, physics and radiation physics.
Arkansas Tech University Board of Trustees during its March meeting.
His community service included serving on the panel that drafted the original emergency plan for
Rickard taught physical science at Arkansas Tech
Arkansas Nuclear One.
from 1967-98. According to the letter of nomination for emeritus status from Dr. Jeff Robertson, head of
Rickard is photographed here from the 1968
the Tech Department of Physical Sciences, Rickard taught more
Agricola yearbook, which was published at the end of his first
than 18,000 students during his 31 years at the university.
year at Arkansas Tech.
School of Business honors two retirees Two members of the Arkansas Tech School of Business faculty with a combined 39 years of service to the university were honored with a retirement reception on April 30. Dr. Joe Moore and Dr. Richard Smith, both of whom hold the title of professor of economics, received parting gifts and well wishes from a room full of students, colleagues and friends at the Chambers Cafeteria West Dining Room. Moore has been a member of the Tech faculty for 21 years, while Smith has given 18 years of service to Arkansas Tech. As of publication date, Moore and Smith were the only two members of the Tech faculty to announce their retirements at the end of the spring semester. Dr. Ronald Nelson, head of the Tech Department of Electrical Engineering, retired after the fall 2008 semester.
Tod ay’s Tech
Arkansas Tech renames its academic divisions Arkansas Tech University will experience the first major
“This action is very important because we want the terms
adjustment to the naming of its academic divisions in a
we use to reflect contemporary usages around the country,”
quarter-century following action by the institution’s Board
said Tech President Dr. Robert C. Brown. “That is especially
of Trustees during its regular monthly meeting at the Ross
true on our Web site, which has become our chief tool in the
Pendergraft Library and Technology Center on March 19.
recruitment of prospective students.”
Under the new designations, the academic divisions
It is the most significant adjustment to the designations of
at Arkansas Tech University will be organized within seven
the academic divisions since 1985, when the current names
colleges:
were introduced. The new designations go into effect July 1.
• College of Professional Studies and Community
As part of the reorganization, the Department of
Outreach (previously the School of Community Education and
Emergency Administration and Management will be renamed
Professional Development)
the Department of Emergency Management. It will become
• College of Arts and Humanities (previously the School of Liberal and Fine Arts) • College of Natural and Health Sciences (previously the
part of the College of Applied Sciences. The department was previously placed under the School of Community Education and Professional Development umbrella.
School of Physical and Life Sciences) • College of Applied Sciences (previously the School of Systems Science)
Also, the Department of Mathematics will move from the School of Systems Science to the College of Natural and
• College of Business (previously the School of Business)
Health Sciences and the Department of Social Sciences and
• College of Education (previously the School of Education)
Philosophy will be renamed the Department of History and
• Graduate College (previously the Graduate School)
Political Science.
Spring 2009
The ultimate way to show your Tech spirit is now available. For just $35 this official Arkansas license plate shows the world where your school spirit is. Get yours at any Department of Finance office in Arkansas or visit the link below. For every Tech license plate purchased, $25 goes toward the Arkansas Tech Alumni Association Scholarship Fund.
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15
Class Notes
Marriages
1930s
Pamela Annette Owens (COMS ’94) and Stephen Scott
Loren T. Denton (ART ’37) and Sybil Sorrels Denton
Brixey were married on March 21, 2009. Pamela is employed
celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on May 8, 2009.
by Wingfoot Commercial Tire Systems LLC. They live in Fort
Loren is retired from the Internal Revenue Service.
Smith. Christopher Phillips (REC/PARKS ADMIN ’98) and Dr. Amy
1940s
Fallon were married on May 9, 2009. They live in Bryant.
Doyle W. Rogers (’40) was named to the Arkansas Business 2009
Brandy Rachelle Waters (BIOL ’02) and Nathan Aaron
Rock.
Power List. He is the chairman of Rogers Bancshares in Little
Hopkins were married on Oct. 4, 2008. They live in Conway.
1950s Tara Michelle Hawkins (PSY ’04) and Michael Christopher Dorminy (MGMT/MKTG ’05) were married on April 25, 2009.
Emmett Wade (BUAD ’50) celebrated 60 years of continuous
They live in Rogers.
membership in the American Legion in April.
Alan Floyd (NURS ’05) and Janelle Johnson were married on May 2, 2009. They live in Little Rock.
1960s John Grant (HEPE ’62) and his wife, Etta, celebrated their 50th
Lyonette Hale (SOC ’07) and Matt Carpenter were married on
wedding anniversary with a reception on April 4, 2009. They
March 21, 2009. Lyonette works for the Arkansas Department
live in Alma.
of Community Corrections as a probation/parole officer. They
16
live in Morrilton. Tech Action
Births
1970s Marti Wilkerson (SOC ’70), associate professor of rehabilitation science at Arkansas Tech, received the 2009
Christin Jones Holmes (ELED ’98) and her husband, Chad,
Delta Sigma Omicron Lyman B. Harris Award. The honor goes
a son, Adam Keil, Feb. 16, 2009. Adam has two brothers,
each year to an individual who has worked to improve the lives
Jacob (6) and Evan (4), and one sister, Emma (2). They live in
of those with disabilities in the attainment of higher education
Morrilton.
goals.
Joel McEntyre (COMS ’98) and Alexis Styles McEntyre (SPH
Dr. Robert McAfee (HIST/POL SCI ’71) was the keynote
’00), a son, Chayce Barrett, March 10, 2009. They live in
speaker at Clarion University’s third environmental congress
Bentonville.
on critical perspectives on energy, environment, technology and water development. The conference was held March
Johnathan Foster (MGMT/MKTG ’99) and Stace Stokes Foster
31 and April 1. Robert serves as climatologist to Gov. Mike
(ELED ’00), a son, Zachary Logan, April 2, 2009. Zachary has
Beebe’s Commission on Global Warming.
one sister, Abigail (3). Don Crook (ACCT ’73), chief financial officer at Hanna Oil Jeremy Goss (ACCT ’02) and his wife, Crystal, a son, Nicholas
and Gas Co. in Fort Smith, was the guest speaker for the
Drayden, March 14, 2009. They live in Conway.
Undergraduate Research Symposium at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith on April 24.
Ross Moudy (AGBU ’02) and Melissa Bruce Moudy (ECED ’04), a son, Eli Bruce, March 13, 2009. Eli has one sister, Karsyn.
Todd Sweeden (BUAD ’76) was selected to serve on the 2009 Russellville Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Todd is
Wilson Overbey (AGBU ’02) and Mandy Wish Overbey
owner of Sweeden Florist.
(ALUM), a son, George Samuel, April 8, 2009. Col. Frank Theising (POL SCI ’76) and his wife, Debbie Alicia Malone Robinson (MGMT/MKTG ’03) and her husband,
Dickerson Theising (’76), have retired after more than 32
Mitchell, a son, Race Michael, Jan. 30, 2009. Race has one
years of active duty with the U.S. Army. They will reside near
brother, Restin (2). They live in Dardanelle.
Ozark.
Matt Osburn (HIM ’04) and Jacque Croxton Osburn (HIM ’06), a son, Nathan Ryan, March 10, 2009.
Class Notes
Dr. Jim Ameika (CHEM ’77) and his wife Karin Ameika (ART
Brad Payne (ECON ’86) was named president of Mohave
EDU ’77) have developed and marketed Kona Cloud Coffee
State Bank in Lake Havasu City, Ariz. He joined Mohave State
Estates brand coffee over the past 12 years. The beans come
Bank in March 2008 as its executive vice president and chief
from a 120-acre plot in Hawaii and are processed in Jonesboro,
credit officer. Brad has 23 years of experience in the banking
where Jim is also a cardiovascular surgeon.
industry.
Leila Alston (MED TECH ’79) received a Josetta Wilkins Award
Randy Campbell (PSY ‘87) was one of three Russellville High
in recognition of her volunteer efforts to defeat breast cancer
School alumni recognized during the school’s third annual
in Arkansas.
Night of Champions in February.
1980s Dianne Siler Edwards (JOUR ’80) was chosen for the 2009 Russellville Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Dianne is owner and publisher of About the River Valley magazine. Joe Alpe (RPA ’81) became executive director of the Russellville Housing Authority on March 17, 2009. Wilson Moore (ECON ’81) was named to the Arkansas Business 2009 Power List. He is the Arkansas president and commercial bank executive for Bank of America in Little Rock. John W. Stottman Jr. (ACCT ’82) was elected co-chairman of the Federal Tax Institute Committee of the Arkansas Society of Certified Public Accountants. John is an individual practitioner. Randy Philpot (ACCT ’83) of Beall Barclay & Co. in Fort Smith was named to the Arkansas Business 2009 Power List. He is the firm’s managing member. Melanie Topham Guinn (ACCT ’85) was hired by Beall Barclay & Co. as a staff accountant. She will provide specialized tax, accounting, audit and consulting services to the firm’s clients. Tonya Russell (ENGL ’85) was the luncheon speaker at the Western Arkansas Child Care Conference at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith on April 25. Tonya has been the director of the Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education at the Arkansas Department of Human Services since 2004. Holly Ruth Gale (MUS ’86) was inducted into the Russellville Arts Center Beaux Arts Academy on April 17. Holly is an assistant professor of music at Arkansas Tech. Gregg Long (’86) received Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) accreditation. Gregg is a project manager at Crafton Tull Sparks and was selected to serve on the 2009 Russellville Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Jeffrey S. Nufer (ACCT ’86) of Shoptaw, Labahn & Co. in Russellville was elected director of the Arkansas Society of Certified Public Accountants.
Jim C. Petty (ACCT ’87) of Strategic Realty in Van Buren was elected president of the Arkansas Society of Certified Public Accountants. John Terry (BUAD/ECON ’87) completed requirements to become a group kickboxing instructor. He is an instructor and co-owner of River Valley Martial Arts in Russellville. Donna Brunson (HEPE ’88) was one of three Russellville High School alumni recognized during the school’s third annual Night of Champions in February. Charlie Melton (’88) coached the Scranton Lady Rockets to the 2009 Class 1A state basketball championship. Scranton defeated Kingston 48-27 on March 14 to complete a 40-3 season. In May, Charlie coached Scranton to the Class 1A state softball title with a 2-0 win over Nemo Vista. Charlie is married to Paula Haynes Melton (BUED ’89), and their daughter Tayler Rae is a student at Arkansas Tech. Douglas Butler Jr. (BUAD ’89) was selected as the 2008 Award of Excellence winner for national accounts sales with the International Paper Container of the Americas division. David Frueauff (ECON ’89) was named to the Arkansas Business 2009 Power List. He is the president of Charles A. Frueauff Foundation Inc. in Little Rock.
1990s Rodney Parks (ECON ’91) was appointed to the State of Arkansas Banking Board by Gov. Mike Beebe. Rodney is director of development at Philander Smith College in Little Rock. Brenda Sturdivant Beard (ELED ’92) was named 2009 Arkansas School Counselors Association Middle School/Junior High Counselor of the Year. She has served in the Ozark School District for 17 years, and she has worked as a junior high counselor for five years. Julia Langford (MATH ’92) was the big winner at the 2009 Lake Dardanelle Big Bass Classic April 25-26. She caught a 7-pound bass, which was good for a total of $10,500 in prize money.
Spring 2009
17
Class Notes Donny Rogers (ECON ’92) obtained a securities license to supervise branch activities. He is senior vice president and
2000s
asset management location manager for Arvest Bank in the
Dr. Russell Allison (AGBU ’00) completed the American
Fort Smith region.
Orthopedic Association Kellogg Leadership Series. He lives and practices in Russellville.
Jennifer Taff King (ENGL ’94) was named 2009 Arkansas School Counselors Association Northwest Region Multi-Level
William Fisher (HEPE ’00) was promoted to vice president of
Counselor of the Year. Jennifer is a counselor for the Mulberry/
lending services at Petit Jean State Bank. He has worked at the
Pleasant View Bi-County School District.
bank since 2001.
Jennifer Carter Modersohn (HIST ’97) has opened a law
Kurt Corbin (HEPE ’01) was hired as defensive tackles coach
office in Russellville. Jennifer received her law degree from the
for the football program at Stephen F. Austin University in
University of Arkansas-Little Rock in 2000.
Nacogdoches, Texas. He moves over from the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga, where he served as linebackers coach
18
Tech Action
Jared Wood (ECON ’97) was selected to serve on the 2009
in 2008. Kurt has also held coaching positions at Northwestern
Russellville Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Jared is
State University (La.), Arkansas Tech and the University of
president of Regions Bank of Russellville.
Arkansas-Monticello.
Todd Cooley (ENGL ’98) was hired as offensive coordinator
Benyard Jones (M.Ed. ’01) was named defensive line coach
for the football program at Northwestern State University in
for the football program at Youngstown State University in
Natchitoches, La. Todd moves to NSU from the University of
Youngstown, Ohio. Benyard was previously the defensive
Central Arkansas, where he served as offensive coordinator
coordinator at Arkansas Tech for two years and served a total
from 2005-08. Todd has also served as an assistant coach
of seven years as a full-time member of the Tech coaching
at Arkansas Tech, Ouachita Baptist and Northeastern State
staff.
University (Okla.). Jennifer Brigance Aday (AGBU ’02) was elected president of Tina Cornwell (MUED ’98 & M.Ed ’05) achieved National
the Arkansas Women in Agriculture board for 2009.
Board Certified Teacher status. She is a band director at Dardanelle High School.
Jamie Little Minton (COMS ’03) was part of a team at Pinnacle Business Solutions in North Little Rock that received the
Amber Brady (MGMT/MKTG ’99 & ACCT ’04) was promoted
Information Integrity Coalition silver award for Excellence in
to senior accountant with Beall Barclay & Co. of Fort Smith.
Information Integrity. Jamie is a programmer for the company, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Arkansas Blue Cross and
Tonya Brasher Hernes (ELED ’99 & M.Ed. ’06) achieved
Blue Shield.
National Board Certified Teacher status. She teaches third grade at Dardanelle Elementary School.
Wendy Reynolds (PSY ’03) was named the Area Agency on Aging of West Central Arkansas employee of the month for
Kylie Jones (ELED ’99) joined Moore and Co. Realtors as a
February 2009. Wendy is a case manager in the Russellville
sales associate.
office.
Chris Watson (HEPE ’99) coached the Danville Lady Little
Erik Enderlin (EAM ’05) received a certificate of
Johns to the 2009 Class 2A state basketball championship.
commendation in February in recognition of his work as an
Danville defeated St. Joseph 38-32 at Summit Arena in Hot
officer with the Kansas City Police Department.
Springs on March 13 to cap a 33-3 season and the Lady Little Johns’ first state basketball title.
R. Lance Bartlett (MECH ENGR ’06) received Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) accreditation. He is
Walter Woodie (HIST/POL SCI ’99 & M.A. ’08) will receive
an engineer for the civil department at Crafton Tull Sparks.
the 2009 Arkansas Activities Association Distinguished Media Service Award during the Arkansas High School Coaches
Tawnya Shelton (M.Ed. ’06) was named 2009 Arkansas School
Association/Arkansas Officials Association Hall of Fame
Counselors Association Secondary Counselor of the Year.
Banquet in Hot Springs on July 10. Walter is an independent
Tawnya is a counselor at Alma High School.
journalist, a high school sports historian and a social studies teacher at Van Buren High School.
Kirk Hall (ELEG ’08) accepted a position as an electrical engineer with the utility department for the city of Benton.
Obituaries
tech
Friends We’ll Miss
Robert L. Ragland (ENGR ‘33) died Aug. 8, 2008. Robert was
Linda Lou Sorrels (ELED ‘85) died Jan. 13, 2009. Linda retired
a veteran of World War II and served in the government for
as principal at Pottsville Elementary School. Her 15-year career
37 years. He retired in 1974 as contracting officer at the Pine
in education also saw her teach kindergarten, third grade and
Bluff Arsenal. Robert was preceded in death by a daughter, Gail
sixth grade. Survivors include her husband, Joe E. Sorrels; son,
Patterson. Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Gerry Ann
Brent Sorrels; daughter, Brooke Sorrels; mother, Loretta Boyce;
Rountree Ragland; and sons, Charles Ragland, Clyde Ragland
brother, Danny Joe Boyce; and sister, Tammy Skelton. Linda
and Don Ragland. Robert lived in Fayetteville. He was 94.
lived in Pottsville. She was 57.
Harry B. “Hunk” Anderson (MATH ‘38) died March 23, 2009.
Cecil Carney (ELED ‘00) died Oct. 1, 2008. He was a substitute
Harry served the U.S. Army at the Aberdeen Proving Ground
teacher in the Fort Smith School District. Survivors include his
(Md.) from 1940-77. He garnered a reputation as an expert
sons, Christopher Carl Carney and Jeffery Paul Carney; parents,
in propellants and explosives and authored several technical
Naoma and Paul Carney; sister, Paulette Purvis; and brother,
reports and studies. Survivors include his wife, LaRue G.
Gary Don Carney. Cecil lived in Fort Smith. He was 55.
Anderson; daughters, Terri Ward, Jonell Hook and Holly Thompson; sister, Allie Cullen; and brother, U.S. Anderson.
William “Bill” N. Bailey (ALUM) died May 2, 2009. Bill retired as
Harry lived in Parkville, Md. He was 91.
president of McLarty Leasing of Little Rock in 1984. Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Betty Fern Bailey; son, William “Bill”
Janice Thacker Howell (ART ‘38) died Aug. 22, 2008. Janice
Bailey; daughters, Suzanne Ogle, Peg Palmer and Liz Burch; and
volunteered at the Tulsa Psychiatric Clinic (Okla.) and was
brother, Butch Bailey. Bill lived in Rogers. He was 79.
later employed by the Mary Ruby Dress Shop in Tulsa. She was preceded in death by her husband, Cecil R. Howell, and
Ann Churchill (ALUM) died March 30, 2009. She was a former
stepson, Gary R. Howell. Survivors include daughters Fritzi
Pope County Woman of the Year, founder of the Pope County
Allsopp Prather and Bette Allsopp Geldon, and stepdaughter,
Senior Companion Program and former director of the Head
Jeri Howell Dopler. Janice lived in Tulsa. She was 89.
Start Centers at Appleton and Arkansas Tech University. Survivors include her husband, Jamie Churchill; sons, Jeffrey
Jean D. Thatcher (AGRI ‘40) died March 11, 2008. Jean was a
Churchill and Tres Churchill; daughters, Judith Churchill, Janis
veteran of World War II. His survivors include his wife, Bernice
Rowlands and Christia Churchill; and brother, Billy Paris. Ann
Thatcher; son, Robert D. Thatcher; daughter, Susan Moore;
lived in Dover. She was 73.
brother, H.K. Thatcher; and sister, Betty Sue Baker. Jean lived in Cabot. He was 88.
Dr. Edward Cook (ALUM) died Feb. 20, 2009. He worked as a radiologist in Wichita, Kan., for 30 years. Survivors include his
Lawrence Hanan (SOC STUDIES ‘60) died April 29, 2009.
wife of 46 years, Bernice Cook; and daughters, Cindy Cook and
Lawrence was a former planning director for ARVAC and a
Shayna Cook. Ed lived in Wichita. He was 66.
veteran of the U.S. Navy. Survivors include his wife, Elsie Hanan; daughters, Kathryn Seiter and Carol Hanan; and
Jesse Donaldson (ALUM) died March 20, 2009. He was
brother, John Hanan. Lawrence lived in Russellville. He was 76.
a member of the Clarksville City Council for 25 years and assistant chief of the Clarksville Fire Department for 41 years.
Garry Brewer (HIST/POL SCI ‘65) died April 4, 2009. Since
Survivors include his son, Greg Donaldson. Jesse lived in
1988, Garry had adjudicated the claims of disabled workers
Clarksville. He was 68.
while serving as an administrative law judge. He served on the Arkansas Transportation Commission from 1973-85. Survivors
Robert “Bob” Halasek (ALUM) died Jan. 19, 2009. He was
include his mother, Sylvia Jewel Brewer; sons, Dr. Stephen
employed by Pratt’s Lawn and Landscape. Survivors include his
Brewer and Barry Scott Brewer; and sisters, Margie Robertson
wife, Judy Halasek; son, Robert Trent Halasek; daughter, Andrea
and Bobbie Brewer. Garry lived in Morrilton. He was 67.
Nayle Halasek; mother, Erma Halasek Slavens; and sister, Kay Halasek. Robert lived in Georgetown, Ky. He was 55.
Brenda Lee Floyd (ELED ‘85) died Feb. 11, 2009. She taught third grade at Berryville Intermediate School for more than 21
Charles Edward Wilson (ALUM) died May 4, 2009. He served
years. Survivors include her husband, Kelly Floyd; son, Allen
in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was a retired small
Floyd; daughter, Lynn Faught; parents, Ethlyn and Jack Overall;
business owner. Charles was preceded in death by his wife
and brother, Russell Overall. Brenda lived in Berryville.
of 46 years, Vera Wilson. Survivors include his daughter, Tish
She was 51.
Nisbet. Charles lived in Little Rock. He was 83.
Spring 2009
19
Development Corner
Scholarship established in honor of Cooper A group of Arkansas Tech alumni and friends have created a
“I can think of no higher honor than for my name to be
scholarship in honor of Hal Cooper, who is celebrating 30 years
attached to the opportunity for someone to be a bandsman at
as the university’s director of bands.
Arkansas Tech,” said Cooper. “I must accept this recognition on behalf of the music faculty and administration at Arkansas
Dr. Cynthia Hukill, who recently completed her first year
Tech, who are all committed to the success of our students.”
as head of the Tech Music Department, made the surprise announcement of the Hal Cooper Band Scholarship at the
For information about contributing toward the Hal Cooper
band’s end-of-year concert at Witherspoon Auditorium on
Band Scholarship, or any other private scholarship at Tech, call
Sunday, May 3.
(479) 968-0400.
Music award created in memory of Stallings Patrick Combs of Hot Springs is the first winner of the Dr. Dix Stallings
20
Tech Action
He was also president of Kappa Kappa Psi, Tech’s band service fraternity.
Outstanding Senior Bandsman Award at
Arkansas Tech University.
The Dr. Dix Stallings Outstanding
Senior Bandsman Award is in memory
Combs received his award at an end-
of the former vice president of
of-year band concert at Witherspoon
development and friend of the Tech
Auditorium on Sunday, May 3.
Music Department. Stallings was a 1955
Tech graduate and an employee of the
A four-year member of the Arkansas
university from 1974-95.
Tech University band, Combs has served on the band council, as a marching band
Your gift makes a difference To contribute toward any of these awards and scholarships, or to learn more about other giving opportunities, call (479) 968-0400.
The award was created by
squad leader, as a section leader and
Dr. Stallings’ family and friends. His wife,
as a counselor at Arkansas Tech Band
Sue Stallings of Russellville, was on hand
Camp.
to present the award to Combs.
First Gary K. Burris Award goes to Hines Michael Hines is the first recipient
The award is named in honor of
of the Gary K. Burris Outstanding
the late Gary Burris, who earned an
Accounting Scholar Award.
accounting degree from Tech in 1962 and was the first Tech alumnus to pass
Hines, a senior from Russellville, was
the certified public accountant exam.
announced as the winner during the School of Business’ end-of-year awards ceremony on Wednesday, April 23.
His wife, Kaay Burris, presented Hines with the award.
Flower, Gwatney earn 2009 Spark Awards Sophomores Travis Flower of Harrison (left) and Brad Gwatney of Vilonia (right), photographed with Tech Vice President for Development Jayne Jones, are the recipients of the 2009 Student Government Association Spark Award. The Spark Award is made possible through a gift to the Arkansas Tech Foundation by 2005 graduate Holly Burrow, who wanted to reward SGA senators who are not paid officers.
Development Corner
Green and Gold Fund: Team behind the teams Everyone who has an association with Arkansas Tech
Green and Gold Fund members are an important part of
University knows of the school’s rich history not only in the
the Tech family, and their support is critical to the success
field of academics, but also the field of athletics.
of the athletics department.
Dating back to the start of athletic competition at Tech in
As each year goes by, private funding for our 10 athletics
1911, we have enjoyed many successful teams and seasons
programs is becoming more critical due to the escalating costs
that all of our alumni can be proud of. The Green and Gold
associated with higher education and the competitive nature
Fund is based on this sense of pride and tradition.
of bringing the best qualified student-athlete to our campus.
Arkansas Tech Athletics encourages student-athletes to reach their maximum potential not only on the field of sporting
Over the last five years, the value of a scholarship has steadily increased.
competition, but in the arenas
Kelly Davis
of academics and personal
For Arkansas Tech
development as well.
Athletics, this rise in value
Director of Corporate and Athletic Relations
accounts for an increase of We continue to produce
approximately $267,000 over
champions on the fields and
that same five-year period.
courts of play, and you can read more about their many
The total cost of
exploits on pages 22-23 of
scholarships allowed by
this edition of Tech Action.
the NCAA in all sports for Arkansas Tech now exceeds $1
Often less publicized, but of even greater long-term value, are the life lessons that our student-athletes learn. First, there is the manner in which they excel in the
million per year. All indications are the cost of competing will continue to rise in coming years. If we want the Wonder Boys and Golden Suns to continue the
classroom. We have placed 655 student-athletes on the Gulf
winning tradition that we are all so proud of, we must give our
South Conference Academic Honor Roll since 1995.
coaches and student-athletes the tools they need to succeed.
But the learning does not stop at the classroom door, or even on the practice fields and courts.
We want to take this opportunity to extend an invitation to each and every one to become a part of the Green and Gold Fund and become champions in your own right as we continue
During the 2008-09 academic year alone, our studentathletes identified themselves as champions in the community
to offer the best educational and athletic experience possible at Arkansas Tech University.
by giving 1,650 hours of volunteer service. Together, we can add to the proud athletic legacy at That kind of learning changes not only our young men and women, but the world in which they live. My role affords me
Arkansas Tech and produce high-quality graduates who can become champions in their communities.
the opportunity to meet these young people, and I am pleased to report that they are proudly continuing the Tech tradition.
For more information about the Green and Gold Fund, please feel free to call me at (888) 275-8321 or e-mail me at
The Green and Gold Fund was established as an avenue
kdavis@atu.edu.
for Tech alumni, former athletes, corporate and business partners, parents and friends to help defray the cost of annual
GO TECH!
scholarships and operating expenses (books, equipment, recruiting, travel, facilities and athletic training) for current student-athletes. Kelly Davis This auxiliary funding is necessary to remain competitive in NCAA Division II and the Gulf South Conference.
Director of Corporate and Athletic Relations Class of 1981
Spring 2009
21
Tech Athletics
Wonder Boys reach NCAA Tourney 2nd Round Arkansas Tech capped its best
“It made me proud to see the
men’s basketball season in more
way these young men represented
than a decade by reaching the
Arkansas Tech,” said Steve Mullins,
second round of the NCAA Division II
Arkansas Tech athletic director..
Tournament, finishing with an overall
“And it wasn’t just on the floor. It
record of 23-9 and claiming the
was around the arena, in the press
first Gulf South Conference men’s
conferences after the games, in
basketball title in school history.
restaurants and in the airports. They wore Arkansas Tech with pride
“We were able to accomplish what PHOTOGRAPHED:
we accomplished because of the
Top: Coach Mark Downey
character of this group of guys,” said
Right: Brandon Friedel
and served as ambassadors for our university.”
Arkansas Tech head men’s basketball
The Wonder Boys’ historic year
coach Mark Downey at a postseason
came just two years after a 2006-07
luncheon in the Wonder Boys’ honor.
season that saw them finish with an
“They listened and did what we asked
overall record of 6-21 and a 1-13
them to do. That is special because
record in GSC play.
you don’t always get that.” That season two years ago was the last in a string of seven It was Tech’s best campaign since 1994-95, when the
22
Tech Action
consecutive sub-.500 seasons for the Tech men’s basketball
Wonder Boys went 29-6 and reached the NAIA National
program. In the two years that have followed, the Wonder Boys
Tournament semifinals.
have posted a cumulative overall record of 41-20.
School record 17 wins for Tech tennis team Arkansas Tech recorded one of its most successful women’s tennis seasons ever in 2009 by establishing a new school record for wins in a season. The Golden Suns finished with an overall record of 17-5 and a berth in the Gulf South Conference Tournament. It was Tech’s second consecutive trip to the postseason, and the Suns continued their history-making season by defeating West Alabama in a consolation match at the GSC Tournament. The win was Tech’s first-ever postseason women’s tennis victory.
2009 Arkansas Tech Football Schedule Thursday, Aug. 27 Saturday, Sept. 5 Thursday, Sept. 10 Saturday, Sept. 26 Saturday, Oct. 3 Saturday, Oct. 10 Saturday, Oct. 17 Saturday, Oct. 24 Saturday, Oct. 31 Saturday, Nov. 7
at Northeastern State Incarnate Word *at West Alabama (GSC-TV Live) *Arkansas-Monticello (Family Day) *at North Alabama *Southern Arkansas *West Georgia (Homecoming) *at Henderson State *Delta State (Senior Day) *at Harding
Tahlequah, Okla. Russellville, Ark. Livingston, Ala. Russellville, Ark. Florence, Ala. Russellville, Ark. Russellville, Ark. Arkadelphia, Ark. Russellville, Ark. Searcy, Ark.
7 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 3 p.m. 6 p.m. 2 p.m.
*Denotes Gulf South Conference game | Times are Central and are subject to change. | Home games are played at Thone Stadium at Buerkle Field
Tech Athletics
Suns repeat as GSC West softball champions Arkansas Tech captured its second consecutive Gulf South Conference West Division softball championship and made it all the way to the championship game of the GSC Tournament for a second straight year during the 2009 season. The Golden Suns posted an overall record of 42-20 to establish a new school record for softball wins in a season. Tech is now 83-38 over the past two seasons after winning just 12 softball games in 2007. Tech won 13 of its final 15 games, including a 1-0 victory over nationally top-ranked Alabama-Huntsville in a winners’ bracket contest at the GSC Tournament. It was the Suns’ first-ever softball victory over a No. 1-ranked team. The loss ended an historic season for the Golden Suns, Two days later, after a series of rain delays shortened the
who set 51 new team and individual records over the course of
event to a single-elimination tournament, Valdosta State came
the 2009 softball season and became just the third GSC West
from behind to defeat Arkansas Tech 5-3 in the title game.
softball program to ever record consecutive 40-win seasons.
Tech’s Grappe named All-America Spring 2009
Amanda Grappe, a 6-foot senior forward from Benton, became the 14th Arkansas Tech
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women’s basketball player to earn All-America status when she was named a Women’s Basketball Coaches Association NCAA Division II first team All-American in March. Grappe averaged 19 points and 8.1 rebounds per game while leading the Suns to a 19-9 record in 2008-09. She leaves Tech as its 10th all-time leading scorer with 1,738 career points. Grappe was named the 2008-09 GSC West Division player of the year. The Suns were 82-36 with two 20-win seasons and two NCAA Division II Tournament appearances during her career.
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Tech Action Arkansas Tech University Alumni Association Alumni House Russellville, AR 72801
Arkansas Tech University Alumni Association Volume 45 No. 2
TECH
HOMECOMING Join us October 16-17 as we celebrate 100 years of Arkansas Tech with a Homecoming to remember!