Tech Action Spring 2011 Col. Carl Baswell inducted into Hall of Distinction. See pages 4-5.
James Bibler, Lyndall Stout and Jack Hamm inducted into Hall of Distinction. See pages 4-9.
Tech Action
It’s not goodbye, it’s a new phase of life As I packed up my office, I became overwhelmed with
I’ll leave as alumni director proud of the fact that I had
all the memories. I rediscovered thank you notes from
a hand in implementing a new organizational structure for
many alums who acknowledged my help in organizing
the Arkansas Tech Alumni Association Board of Directors
a reunion, hosting alumni events and helping them get
and that we’ve made an effort and continue to do so
reacquainted with an old roommate or friend.
in reaching out to young alumni. We also upgraded the alumni Web site and expanded our presence in social
In hindsight, I should have been thanking them.
media. I’m going back to being a volunteer for the university,
Doing all those things have helped make the past six years working for my alma mater a dream come true.
same as I was before I joined the alumni staff. To the Board of Trustees, the administration, faculty,
I’ve resigned as the alumni director so I can stay home with my eight month old son. Making the decision has
staff and alumni....thank you for allowing me to serve as
been a hard one. I loved my job. Working with the alumni
the alumni director of a great institution. I take away a
of Arkansas Tech has been a joy. But, my son Grayson is
new sense of what being a part of the TECH family is all
growing up so fast and I don’t want to miss any moments
about.
with him. The alumni association has many great days ahead of it. If you haven’t gotten involved, it’s not too late to do
I’ll treasure all the memories I’ve made and the friendships that have formed through the years. I’ll look back with fond memories of all the alumni scholarships awarded, Homecomings planned and alumni gatherings
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so. See you at a TECH event soon!
where I’ve fellowshipped with new friends. Tech Action
I have loved hearing your stories and memories of why you love Arkansas Tech. While our time on campus as students has varied over the decades, we all share a
Angela DeWitt Bonds ‘95
common bond of loving our alma mater.
Director of Alumni Relations 2008-2011
tech
Alumni Association Board of Directors President: Jim Murphy ‘71
President-Elect: Shirley Drewry Dodd ‘59 Brenda Metcalf Hipp ‘63 12/13
Philip Alexander ‘89 12/11
Raymond Molden ‘96 12/11
Doug Brown ‘06 12/11
Cara Hammond Witherspoon ‘78 12/11 Steve Pfeifer ‘71 12/12
Steve Kesner ‘77 12/13
Jimmy Cunningham ‘75 12/11
John Carter ‘02 12/12
Kendall Tabor ‘89 & ‘92 12/12
Tayler Melton ‘10 12/13
Robert Ford ‘86 12/11
Molly Fleming ‘09 12/12
Angie Wyatt ‘03 12/12
Todd Sweeden ‘76 12/13
Dixie Gossett ‘70 & ‘74 12/11
Leslie Miller Harris ‘08 12/12
Katherine Nunn Bowden ‘54 12/13
Jim White ‘78 12/13
Tommy Johnston ‘91 12/11
Ronda Hawkins ‘92 12/12
Sue Chiolino ‘68 12/13
Vickie Yates ’79 & ‘89 12/13
Ann Irwin ‘83 12/12
Brian Bass, Ozark Campus Rep.
catch up with an old friend today www.techties.atu.edu
Tech Action, Volume 47, No. 2. Arkansas Tech University Alumni Association, Alumni House, Russellville, AR 72801 Director of Alumni Relations Kelly Davis Coordinator of Young Alumni Alison Parks Coordinator of Alumni Communications and Activities Kelly Thornton Bostick Alumni Office Administrative Assistant Terry Holland-Finley
Editorial Committee Kelly Davis, Jayne Jones, Julie Nebben Morgan, Susie Nicholson, Sam Strasner publications/creative Services Felisha Weaver Asst. Director of New Media Carrie Harris Phillips
Cover Photograph Steve Newby Contributing Photographers Steve Newby, Liz Chrisman, Ashley Schurtz, Shelly Doyle Chuck Lajeunesse, Beth Hall E-mail address alumni@atu.edu Web site www.techties.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.
Dr. Kenneth G. Kersh
IN MEMORIAM Dr. Kenneth G. Kersh
Arkansas Tech President, 1973-93 Dr. Kenneth G. Kersh, who served as president of Arkansas Tech University from 1973-93, died on Wednesday, March 23. He was 83. In honor of Dr. Kersh and his long service as president, all classes at Arkansas Tech on both the Russellville and Ozark campuses were cancelled on Friday, April 1.
“I do not view Tech as being my institution, nor does it belong to the administrators or faculty,” said Kersh in an interview shortly after becoming Arkansas Tech president. “It was put here to satisfy the academic needs of the young men and women of our state.”
A native of Fort Smith, Kersh was already a veteran of the U.S. Air Force when he enrolled at Arkansas Tech. He graduated from Tech in 1954. Kersh was the first student commander of the Army ROTC program at Arkansas Tech. He served in that capacity from 1952-53. Kersh and Robert F. Merritt received the first second lieutenant commissions in the history of the Arkansas Tech ROTC program in May 1954. Kersh went on to a 20-year career with the U.S. Army. He served as a Green Beret from 1965-69. Kersh was also a member of the Wonder Boys baseball team, served on the staff of the Arka Tech student newspaper and was president of the Arkansas Tech Military Club during his time as a student in Russellville. Kersh continued his education by earning a master’s degree and a Ph.D. from the University of Arkansas. He was serving as chairman of the Hendrix College Department of Education when the position of president at Arkansas Tech became available in January 1972. A year-long search resulted in Kersh being selected
Kersh oversaw two major advances in the early years of his two-decade tenure as president. The summer of 1976 saw both of those changes come to fruition, as Arkansas Tech offered courses toward a master’s degree for the first time and the name of the school was changed from Arkansas Polytechnic College to Arkansas Tech University. In 1985, the Kersh administration and the Arkansas Tech Board of Trustees implemented a plan that reorganized academic offerings at Tech into five schools – the School of Business, the School of Education, the School of Liberal and Fine Arts, the School of Physical and Life Sciences and the School of Systems Science. Among the major baccalaureate programs founded during the Kersh administration were nursing, business education and hospitality management. Master’s degrees in education, instructional technology and liberal arts also became part of the program inventory at Tech on Kersh’s watch. Tucker Coliseum, Crabaugh Hall, Tech Field, Corley Hall and the Energy Center are among the major facilities that were completed, constructed or planned during the Kersh presidency.
as Arkansas Tech president in December 1972. The only alumnus to ever serve as president at Arkansas Tech University, Kersh took office as the 10th president of the institution on Jan. 1, 1973.
Kersh retired as Arkansas Tech president on June 30, 1993. He was inducted into the Arkansas Tech Hall of Distinction, the highest honor that the university can bestow upon an alumnus, in 1994.
Spring 2011
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2011 Hall of Distinction
James Bibler
Distinguished Alumnus
4
Tech Action
James Bibler says that he is not an expert when it comes to computers and technology. He’d rather drive a logging truck than work on a hard drive. But he does understand and appreciate the value of change. In fact, his willingness to grow and adapt might be the No. 1 reason that the lumber company he built — Bibler Brothers, Inc., in Russellville — grew to become one of the most progressive and successful operations of its kind in the United States. “Our mill burned down in 1969,” said Bibler. “Before that, it was a manual operation. Our technology had not moved forward. Most of the people in our company wanted to get out at that point. They asked me what I wanted to do — build it back or shut it down. I said I wanted to build it back, but we’re not going back to the same old, same old. “The chipping saw came along,” continued Bibler. “It was an inline machine that created a much more efficient process. There was quite a bit of electronics involved, rudimentary as it was back then. It changed how you made lumber. We put in the first one in the state. It went from there. Every time a new piece of equipment would come out, if it was something that I thought would work, I wasn’t afraid to put it in. We had a lot of serial No. 1s. Thank goodness a lot more of them worked than didn’t or we wouldn’t be having this conversation.” Bibler graduated from Hector High School as part of a graduating class of 21 students. He enrolled at Arkansas Tech with a goal of playing football.
There was just one problem. Hector High wasn’t large enough to have a football team, which left Bibler without even the most basic of experience. “I didn’t know how to put the uniform on,” said Bibler. “They knocked me around pretty good that first year.” Bibler studied business administration at Arkansas Tech for two years before going to work for his father, who was a farmer, one of the largest landholders in Pope County and the owner of a lumber business. Bibler started out as a lumber stacker and became president of the lumber company at the age of 33. “When your business grows and you start dealing with people, it’s valuable to know what it’s like at every level,” said Bibler of his experiences in the company. “It is hard for someone to pull the wool over your eyes. I’d been there and done that. “I always had a passion for the ground and for planting trees,” continued Bibler. “When you’re integrated in the lumber business it is a long-range deal. I’ve planted a bunch of trees I’ll never see harvested. I think one of the things that kept me interested in it was the progression of what we were going through and what the industry was going through.”
Bibler Brothers, Inc., became a division of Great Northern Nekoosa in 1973, but 13 years later Bibler formed James Bibler Enterprises and purchased all of the stock in Bibler Brothers, Inc. His action saved the mill and the jobs of those who worked there. “I didn’t want to see the people put out of work,” said Bibler. “The average tenure of our employees at that time was 15 years. Not only were they employees; they were almost like family. That was a big factor in the decision. We had three employees who were the third generation of their families to work at the mill. That makes a difference. So we bought it back and started rebuilding it.” From 1986-98, Bibler led major renovations at the mill, brought state of the art equipment online and oversaw the construction of a new office facility just south of the mill on Arkansas Ave. in Russellville.
2011 Hall of Distinction At one point, the modernization of the grade reader allowed the mill to go from producing 94 pieces per minute to 150 pieces per minute. The payroll at Bibler Brothers, Inc., increased from 100 employees when Bibler reclaimed the business in 1986 to as large as 256 employees. “When we started modernizing that cut the number of employees back over time, but we never laid anyone off,” said Bibler. “We let attrition take care of it.” Bibler sold 90 percent of the company to Freeman Brothers, Inc., in 1998, but he remains active in the business. “This last recession we went through…we never stopped modernizing,” said Bibler. “There’s only one place left in the mill where a human has to make a decision, and we’ve got plans on the drawing board to change that. I’ve never backed up on computerizing the mill.
“I don’t know how to turn the computer on, but I can look at the end product and tell you whether or not it’s working,” continued Bibler. “That’s where the rubber meets the road. If you know that, you can find folks to fix the computers. You don’t get that overnight, and you don’t learn it in school.” Today, Bibler serves as chairman of the Ouachita Timber Purchasers Group and as a member of the Southern Pine Inspection Bureau Board of Directors. He is a past chairman of the Arkansas Forestry Commission, having been appointed to that board by Gov. David Pryor and reappointed by Gov. Bill Clinton. Bibler is a past president of the Southern Forest Products Association and the Arkansas Forestry Association. He served as vice chairman of the public timber division of the National Forest Products Association.
“I used to go to these national board meetings for the forestry industry,” said Bibler. “I’d be sitting around a table with people who graduated from Harvard or Yale, and they’d ask me where I went to school. I told them I went to Arkansas Tech for two years, and then I went to the school of hard knocks. Those fellas hadn’t stacked a lot of lumber.” A lifelong supporter of his alma mater, Bibler has shown his affection for Arkansas Tech by serving on the College of Business Advisory Board. His work in that capacity helped the institution’s accounting program gain its accreditation. He also made a gift to the Hindsman Tower project. “I don’t know if I’ll be able to keep the tears out of my eyes,” said Bibler when asked about his induction into the Arkansas Tech Hall of Distinction. “In fact I know I won’t. I got that from my father. He was a little emotional, so I can’t keep from being emotional. It means a great deal to me.”
Spring 2011
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2011 Hall of Distinction
Jack Hamm
Distinguished Alumni Service
6
Tech Action
Traditions are important on college campuses. At Arkansas Tech University, no tradition is more ingrained in the fabric of the institution than the one-on-one attention that faculty members provide to Tech students. Over the past half century, no person has done more to preserve that important Arkansas Tech tradition than Dr. Jack Hamm. A 1964 graduate of Arkansas Tech and a 36-year veteran of the Arkansas Tech faculty, Hamm served the university as vice president for academic affairs from 2001-08. “I think the one-on-one attention that our faculty members provide to our students is the key element in our success,” said Hamm. “Most students really need it and all students appreciate it. We get some students that are going to succeed under most any circumstance. They’re just that good. But there are a lot of students that really don’t know how good they are or how good they can be. “That mentoring and that oneon-one is what changes them from an average student to an excellent student,” continued Hamm. “If I had to say that there is one, most important thing for our university, that’s what it would be.”
Hamm was recruited by legendary head coach Sam Hindsman out of Mount Judea High School to play basketball at Arkansas Tech in 1959. Those hills north of Russellville were fertile recruiting ground for Hindsman, and in Hamm he found a young man who had quite a Wonder Boy pedigree. Hamm’s father, Elmer Hamm, was a member of the original Wonder Boys football team in 1920. So was his cousin, G.W. Hamm. In all, three of Hamm’s first cousins played football at Arkansas Tech during the glory days of the 1920s. For the younger Hamm, an ability to play basketball opened the door to a better life. “One of the things I learned through participation in athletics is that it takes a lot of hard work and dedication in order to really accomplish anything,” said Hamm. “That really carried over to the academic work. It was an interesting time, and the fact that I was able to participate in athletics gave me the opportunity to earn a scholarship. Had that opportunity not been available to me I probably would have taken a very different road. It has been a great benefit to me, to have that opportunity that Coach Hindsman gave me. I will always be grateful for that.” Hindsman was not the only mentor that Hamm encountered during his days as a student at Arkansas Tech. Claude Padgett, John Ferguson, Jack Dodd, John Tucker and Alfred J. Crabaugh were among the faculty members who helped shape young Jack Hamm.
But despite the fact that he started out as a physical education major and ended up in mathematics and physics, Hamm counts a one-on-one mentoring session with an English professor as a turning point in his education and in his life. “I was not one who was prone to do well in English courses,” said Hamm. “I liked literature, but it just wasn’t where I wanted to spend my time. I should never forget an experience I had. I guess we’d been off on a trip playing basketball, and I had gotten behind in an upper-level literature course. “So I went in and talked to Dr. (Lillian) Massie, who was head of the English Department,” continued Hamm. “I went in with a lot of trepidation. I thought I was really going to catch heck, because she had the reputation for really being able to do that. I had observed that on other occasions. But she was really nice to me. She just said ‘son, what you need to do is get yourself organized.’ She sat down with me and outlined to me the things that I needed to do to improve my academic work. It turned out to be one of those events that made a marked impression on me and made it possible for me to do better academic work.” Improved organizational skills in tow, Hamm saw the trajectory of his life change dramatically. He went from making a C in remedial math to graduating from Arkansas Tech with a degree in mathematics and physics. He taught in the public schools of Texas for two years before enrolling in the master’s program at the University of Missouri at Rolla (now the University of Missouri for Science and Technology) in 1966.
2011 Hall of Distinction From 2003-09, 100 percent of the students in the Arkansas Tech Upward Bound program graduated from high school or earned a GED. Ninety-one percent of those students went on to enroll in post-secondary education. Hamm retired as vice president for academic affairs in 2008, but he has remained an active member of the Tech family. Upon his retirement he became the first person in Arkansas Tech history to earn the title of distinguished professor. Hamm was named professor emeritus of mathematics at Arkansas Tech in March 2011. He earned a master’s degree (1968) and a Ph.D. (1972) in applied mathematics from the University of Missouri at Rolla. Shortly after earning his terminal degree, Hamm was offered an opportunity to return home as a member of the Arkansas Tech mathematics faculty.
Hamm was promoted to vice president for academic affairs in 2001. It would be his final full-time assignment as a member of the Tech faculty, and he used those next seven years to implement a variety of initiatives that will benefit the university for generations to come.
Over the next 36 years, Hamm played a large role in helping Arkansas Tech change, grow and improve more than anyone could have imagined.
Under Hamm’s leadership as vice president for academic affairs, Arkansas Tech attained Southern Regional Education Board Level 3 status, a move that put Tech on equal footing with other comprehensive regional universities.
His leadership as dean of the Arkansas Tech School of Systems Science (now the College of Applied Sciences) from 1982-2001 led to accreditation for the engineering programs at Arkansas Tech, the construction of Corley Hall to accommodate the laboratory needs of the engineering and computer science programs and the creation of a separate College of Business at Tech.
Arkansas Tech gained funding from the federal government to offer an Upward Bound program on the Russellville campus during Hamm’s tenure as vice president. The program targets students with risk factors that might prevent them from completing high school and provides them with the guidance, mentoring and tutoring necessary to help them persist to post-secondary education.
He is currently serving as the first president of the Arkansas Tech Alumni “T” Club, a revival of a former student organization that will work to recognize the achievements of current letter winners and maintain the bonds between former studentathletes. “It’s a tremendous honor to be chosen,” said Hamm of his induction into the Arkansas Tech Hall of Distinction. “I don’t know that there is anything that could have happened to me that would have made me feel better, but I also know full well that while it is given in my name it actually recognizes the work of many people. “If I was ever able to achieve anything, it was because I had the help and support of a lot of good people,” continued Hamm. “I’m honored. As I told President Brown when he called to tell me, I’m overwhelmed. It’s something that I’ll always treasure.”
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2011 Hall of Distinction
Lyndall Stout
Outstanding Young Alumna
8
Tech Action
It was about 112 degrees in Denison, Texas, that day. Lyndall Stout was a young reporter with a dream to live the glamorous life of a television news anchor. After covering a manhunt for 10 hours in the oppressive Texas heat, she returned to the station where she made $14,000 a year to find that the water cooler had been taken away because employees were drinking too much water.
She soon became the top anchor at Tech TV, earned internships in professional settings and solidified in her mind that she wanted to make a career in television news. “I don’t want to downplay the importance of what takes place in the classroom, but in a field like ours, you need that real-world application,” said Stout. “It was collaborative. We were able to make our mistakes and learn on a small cable station. It was
Many people would have cried in that situation, and Stout admits that she did. Many others would have quit, but that wasn’t an option for Stout. It only strengthened her resolve to keep putting in the long hours for little pay in pursuit of a dream that she would one day live. “Experiences like that teach you and you realize pretty quickly that you love the profession,” said Stout. “I love this so much. I’d do it for free. That’s the benchmark — to feel that you are able to use your talents to make the world a better place. It sounds like a pageant answer, but it’s the truth.” Stout attended Pawhuska High School in Pawhuska, Okla. She was 15 years old when she went to a speech camp at Cameron University in Lawton, Okla., and signed up for a 15-minute workshop with Faye Hawks, who at the time was a member of the Arkansas Tech speech faculty. “I thought it was so cool to work with someone from a college from out of state,” said Stout. “I thought she was amazing, and I guess it was mutual because she told me to call her when I graduated from high school and she would give me a scholarship.”
hands-on learning. I loved it. It laid the groundwork for my career.” Stout earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism and speech communication from Arkansas Tech in 1994.
Stout didn’t need to wait that long. She was already sold on Arkansas Tech, and that feeling was cemented when she visited the campus following her junior year at Pawhuska High School. “I was just a small-town girl from Oklahoma who hadn’t been exposed to much,” said Stout. “I wanted out of my small town, but I didn’t want to go somewhere overwhelming. I wanted to be a news anchor, and I knew there was broadcasting there. The student television station appealed to me. There were about 4,000 students at that time. It was 4-5 hours from home. It was a natural fit.” Stout began working at the Arkansas Tech student television station during her sophomore year. She learned every aspect of the operation, from running the camera to producing graphics. She remembers that graphics weren’t her strong suit, but that wasn’t her destiny.
“I love Arkansas Tech,” said Stout. “It will always have such a special place in my heart. The opportunities I was given to grow at that time mean the world to me.” After earning a Master of Mass Communication degree from Louisiana State University, Stout began her career in television at KTEN in Denison, Texas, in 1998. One year there led to an opportunity to join the staff at NBC affiliate KARK in Little Rock. “When I moved to Little Rock, it was like coming home,” said Stout. “It was such a friendly place. Arkansas has always felt like my second home.” She stayed at KARK for fourand-a-half years, filling the roles of general assignment reporter, weekend anchor and morning anchor. Stout was recognized by the Arkansas Associated Press and was nominated for an Emmy for her reporting at KARK.
2011 Hall of Distinction Her work in Little Rock led to an opportunity to become the main anchor for WBRE/WYOU in WilkesBarre, Pa. Little more than five years since that dreadful day in Denison, Stout’s dream of becoming a news anchor was coming true. “It was definitely a culture shock,” said Stout of the move to Pennsylvania in 2003. “It was a thrill from a career perspective but a huge adjustment culture wise. I moved there in the fall, just as the weather was starting to change. It was a lot harder than I thought it would be to adapt to the culture, but I took the attitude that I’m going to prove myself over time. I wanted to establish myself and build credibility. “There is a level of genuineness that never goes out of style,” continued Stout. “People will sense it if you are the real thing and they will appreciate that in you. I just try to be myself and be consistent.” Those principles landed Stout multiple Emmy nominations and an opportunity to serve the station as managing editor over the course of six years at WBRE/WYOU. She developed the station’s newsroom editorial guide and worked closely with management and producers on story ideas. But a funny thing happens to many of us on the path to our dream. The process reshapes our goals and changes our focus. “Working in television brings huge sacrifices because you have to move where the jobs are,” said Stout. “Between school and career I was away from Oklahoma for 19 years.
“You have to be willing to work holidays and take critiques at all levels to make it in TV,” continued Stout. “You work with egos and personalities in very high-stress, hard-working conditions. And you have to shine under pressure. You can’t fall apart during a live newscast. It takes a certain personality to do that.” Stout has the personality to do that, but she also knew when it was time to go home. That opportunity presented itself on Oct. 23, 2010, when Stout took over duties as host and senior producer for SUNUP, a weekly agriculture television program that airs on 19 public broadcasting stations around the state of Oklahoma every Saturday morning. The program is produced by the Oklahoma State University Division of Agricultural Services and Natural Resources.
“Our program is a way for the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service to communicate with producers and people in Oklahoma and beyond,” said Stout. “We talk about things they can apply to their agriculture operations. It’s the first Monday-through-Friday, 8-to-5 job that I’ve ever had, and it is a slower pace than a newsroom. I never dreamed I’d get the chance to live in Stillwater and be on television.” And after nearly two decades of chasing the dream, home suits Stout pretty well. “I am always looking for new challenges,” said Stout. “I look for ways to grow professionally and personally so that I can continue to contribute. I want to challenge myself, and challenge others around me who want to be inspired in similar ways. Moving every couple of years has always been the norm for me. I don’t want to move anymore.”
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Alumni News
Bonds steps down as director of alumni Angela DeWitt Bonds, director of alumni relations at Arkansas Tech University for the past three years, resigned from her position effective May 15. Bonds and her husband, Dr. Dusty Bonds, welcomed their first child — Grayson Dean Bonds — on Sept. 16, 2010. “Angela has an awesome personality, and she possesses a great skill set for the position of director of alumni relations,” said Jayne Jones, vice president for development at Arkansas Tech. “We were very fortunate to benefit from her leadership in that area for the past three years and her dedication to the alumni office for the past six years. I am so happy for her, Dusty and Grayson.” A native of Danville, Bonds graduated from Tech in 1995 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in speech communication. Bonds first served in the Arkansas Tech Alumni Office
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as coordinator of young alumni from 2005-08. She was Tech Action
One of the hallmarks of Bonds’ time in the Tech
promoted to director of alumni relations for her alma
Alumni Office was a commitment to reach out to young
mater on March 20, 2008.
alumni. She and her staff hosted numerous annual events around the state of Arkansas that ensured that young
Since taking the helm of the Tech Alumni Office,
alumni remain connected to Arkansas Tech. The Arkansas
Bonds aided in the planning and implementation of a new
Tech Alumni Office has also upgraded its Web site and
organizational structure for the Arkansas Tech Alumni
expanded its presence in social media under Bonds’
Association Board of Directors.
guidance.
Alumni News
Davis takes leadership of alumni office Kelly Davis was appointed director of alumni relations at Arkansas Tech University on May 19.
Since returning to his alma mater as a member of the Office of Development seven years ago, Davis has maintained and developed relationships with members
Davis had previously served Arkansas Tech as director of corporate and athletic relations since 2004.
of the local business community on behalf of the university.
He succeeds Angela DeWitt Bonds, who resigned in May after serving her alma mater the past six years.
Davis received the highest honor that Arkansas Tech can bestow upon an individual during Homecoming
“Angela provided excellent leadership and recruited
2008 when he and 34 other All-America student-
an outstanding staff to the Arkansas Tech Alumni
athletes were inducted into the Arkansas Tech Hall
Office, so I inherit a great situation,” said Davis. “I look
of Distinction under the Distinction in Intercollegiate
forward to the opportunity to serve Arkansas Tech in
Athletics category.
this new way.” “As an alumnus of Arkansas Tech and a former Davis earned a Bachelor of Science degree in
president of the Arkansas Tech Alumni Association
business administration from Tech in 1981 and was
Board of Directors, Kelly Davis is well suited for the role
named All-America in 1979 in recognition of his efforts
of director of alumni relations,” said Jayne Jones, vice
as a place kicker and punter for the Arkansas Tech
president for development. “We are fortunate that Kelly
football team.
was excited to embrace this new opportunity.”
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Centennial Convocation
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Tech Action
A CENTURY FORWARD
Harmon focuses on future at convocation Keynote speaker Major Gen.
A veteran of 32 years of
According to Harmon, the
William E. Harmon (Ret.) encouraged
distinguished service to the U.S. Army,
increases in technology may change
Arkansas Tech University to embrace
Harmon spoke of the Arkansas Tech
society’s current idea of the word
“new technology, new traditions
Centennial as a “temporary pause to
campus.
and new opportunities” during the
remember events, milestones and
keynote address at the Arkansas Tech
individuals” that have allowed the
ABOVE: Bill Harmon delivers
Centennial Convocation on Friday,
institution to grow and develop.
the keynote address at the
April 29, at Tucker Coliseum.
Arkansas Tech Centennial Convocation.
Harmon, a member of the
“Proximity will become irrelevant,” said Harmon. “There may come a day when the virtual campus outgrows the
Much of his address focused on
physical campus. I do not see this as
the rapid evolution of technology and
a stretch of the imagination. We can
RIGHT: Members of the Tech
Arkansas Tech Class of 1960 and a
how it will change education in the
be an international university with
faculty participated in the
1990 inductee into the Arkansas Tech
future. He said that he did not know
worldwide legs.”
historic occasion.
Hall of Distinction, served with his
what the future holds, but that it will
wife Suzanne as honorary co-chairs of
be “radically different and executed at
the Arkansas Tech Centennial.
a faster pace.”
In closing, Harrmon left the audience of students, faculty members, administrators, staff and
The celebration of the 100th
Harmon said that education must
alumni with one final challenge.
anniversary of Arkansas Tech began
be “current and applicable.” He stated
on Jan. 14, 2009, with a special event
that graduates must leave Arkansas
at the State Capitol in Little Rock
Tech with “advanced skills” and the
Arkansas Tech say of you that you
and concluded with the convocation.
preparation that will allow them
laid the foundation for new heights
It was the first such academic
to contribute immediately in their
of excellence and exploration,” said
convocation in Tech history.
chosen career.
Harmon.
“Let future generations at
Centennial Convocation Arkansas Tech President Dr.
Dr. Thomas A. DeBlack,
chair of the Arkansas Tech Faculty
Robert C. Brown opened the
professor of history at Arkansas
Senate; and a student response
convocation by welcoming several
Tech, offered a history of the
from Travis Flower, president of the
special guests of the university,
institution. He spoke of the
Arkansas Tech Student Government
including members of the Chambers
challenges in opening the school
Association.
and Hull families.
due to construction delays in October 1910. He told of the
Three generations of the
Musical performances
development of the institution
highlighted two commissioned
Chambers family have served on the
under President Hugh Critz
pieces that were written especially
Arkansas Tech Board of Trustees,
(1918-23), President Hull and the
for the occasion of the Arkansas
including current Board Chairman
unprecedented growth of the past
Tech Centennial.
John Ed Chambers III of Danville.
15 years. The Arkansas Tech Symphonic
Dr. Joseph W. Hull is the longestserving president in Tech history. Hull was nominated for
“The first 100 years of Arkansas
Band performed “Celebration,”
Tech have seen fires, floods, wars
which was written by Philip Parker.
and depression,” said DeBlack. “The
An associate professor of music at
next 100 years are sure to present
Arkansas Tech, Parker directed the
the presidency by Judge John
more challenges, but Arkansas
performance of the piece.
Ed Chambers (the current Mr.
Tech stands better prepared to face
Chambers’ grandfather) in 1932,
those challenges than ever before.”
and Hull maintained that post for 35 years before retiring in 1967.
The Arkansas Tech Concert Chorale performed “Doors of
The convocation included an
Daring” under the direction of
Hull passed away in 1971, just days
alumni response from Jim Murphy,
Gary Morris, director of choirs at
after it was announced that the Hull
president of the Arkansas Tech
Arkansas Tech. The choir piece was
Physical Education Building would
Alumni Association; a faculty
composed by Andrea Ramsey, a
be named in his honor.
response from Dr. Linda Bean,
2000 Arkansas Tech graduate.
Spring 2011
13
Hal Cooper Retirement
MARCHING INTO HISTORY Cooper to retire as Tech band director Arkansas Tech University has only known three
Cooper took the reins of the Arkansas Tech Symphonic
directors of bands during its 102-year history. The third
Band and the Arkansas Tech Marching Band, known far and
man to hold that title has notified the Arkansas Tech
wide as “Arkansas’ Band of Distinction,” in autumn 1979.
Board of Trustees of his plans to retire. He has served as president of the Southwest Division Hal Cooper, associate professor of music and director of bands at Tech since 1979, will retire Aug. 13, 2011.
of the College Band Directors National Association, a member of the Arkansas School Band and Orchestra Association, a charter member and president of the
“It is with mixed feelings that I tell you that I must
Arkansas Bandmasters Association, member and
resign my position as director of bands at Arkansas
president of Arkansas Phi Beta Mu and district governor of
Tech,” wrote Cooper is his letter of resignation. “Recent
Kappa Kappa Psi college band service fraternity.
health issues on my part and the need for youth in the band position make this the best decision for everyone concerned.
Cooper was named Arkansas Bandmaster of the Year in 1988, and he achieved membership in the American Bandmaster Association in 1992.
“The long career at Tech and being a part of such a strong tradition has been a wonderful experience
14
Tech Action
The owner of two degrees from Henderson State
for me, and the support from our administration, our
University, Cooper was recognized by his alma mater as a
faculty and our students has been above and beyond
distinguished alumnus in 2006.
any expectation,” continued Cooper. “I look forward to witnessing continued success from a different perspective.”
Arkansas Tech University honored Cooper in May 2009 with the creation of the Hal Cooper Band Scholarship.
The musical tradition at Arkansas Tech was founded
The surprise announcement was made during the band’s
by the first student to ever enroll at the school — Marvin
annual end-of-year concert to mark the conclusion of
Williamson. He served as director of bands at Arkansas
Cooper’s 30th year at Arkansas Tech.
Tech from 1913-50 and continued to serve on the music faculty until 1956.
“I can think of no higher honor than for my name to be attached to the opportunity for someone to be a
That tradition was carried on and expanded by Gene
bandsman at Arkansas Tech,” said Cooper at the time.
Witherspoon, who came to Tech as its director of bands in
“I must accept this recognition on behalf of the music
1950 and remained in that role until he died as the result
faculty and administration at Arkansas Tech, who are
of a heart attack on Jan. 14, 1979, at the age of 59.
committed to the success of our students.”
Hal Cooper Retirement
Memories of a Master Musician “On a hot and muggy June day in 1981, my wife D’Anne and I arrived on the Tech campus. During the interview process, one of the first people to extend a hand was Hal Cooper. During the course of the day I began to get the sense that working with this band director might truly be something special. It did not take long for this feeling to be confirmed. Taking the Tech band program to new heights of achievement is due in part (as Hal
From those who served with and studied under Hal Cooper
often says) to administrative support, strong studio teaching and talented students. The real secret to success however comes down to the man on the podium. Hal Cooper and his unique gifts as a musician have put the Arkansas Tech Bands on the map! For that, the Tech community will always be thankful.” — Dr. Gary Barrow, professor of music, Arkansas Tech “His strategy was to recruit quality musicians, establish high instrumental music standards and see that future teachers were thoroughly prepared. Among the qualities that allowed him to be an outstanding teacher are incredibly detailed and critical listening, integrity in dealings with individuals, a genuine, shared love of music and constant mindfulness of his family. Tech and countless numbers of graduates are most fortunate to have enjoyed his dedicated efforts. Speaking as a former colleague and administrator, alumnus and friend, I say congratulations on a job extremely well done and say a humble thank you for your life work at Arkansas Tech. Bravo!” — Andy Anders, former Music Department head “I am most proud to have been a part of the Arkansas Tech Band under the direction of Hal Cooper. I graduated in 2001 and every year I have been a teacher, Mr. Cooper has been there for me. Any time I call and ask him to come and work with my kids or come work with me so that I may pick his brain he is always there. I once remarked to him ‘Mr. Cooper, I’ve been gone from Tech for 10 years and yet you’re still teaching me.’ As a musician, Mr. Cooper’s artistry in conducting and communicating the aesthetic beauty of music is unrivaled. On the other hand, Mr. Cooper is a blue collar band director that can relate to his students the way to build a band program, deal with students, cooperate with administrators and teach beginning band. Everything I do well as an educator I learned from Mr. Cooper’s example. I cannot imagine where I would be as a musician, educator or what type of person I would be had it not been for Mr. Cooper’s influence. I am grateful and thankful to call him my teacher.” — Ralph Brody, band director, Clarksville High School “Hal Cooper is a band icon. It is truly the end of an era at Arkansas Tech University. It was an honor and privilege to perform in his bands at Tech from 1987-1992. His passion, insight and extensive knowledge in my undergraduate training were invaluable tools that have helped me have a successful career as a band director. I still have notebooks and handouts from Mr. Cooper from college that I use to this day. Not only is Mr. Cooper a band icon, he is a friend. He has been there over the years for advice, encouragement and just hanging out from time to time. Congratulations, Mr. Cooper, on a job superbly done!” — Tom Chentnik, band director, Mountain Home High School
Spring 2011
15
Today’s Tech
Four earn professor emeritus status Four retired members of the Arkansas Tech University faculty who gave a combined 118 years of service to the institution received the designation of professor emeritus from the Tech Board of Trustees on Thursday, March 17. Dr. Jack R. Hamm, Dr. Joseph L. Moore, Dr. Richard S. Smith and Dr. Thomas P. Tyler were all named professor emeritus, an honorary title that according to the Arkansas Tech Faculty Handbook is “reserved only for those who have given extraordinary and outstanding service to the university over an extended period of years.” Hamm (photographed, right) joined the faculty as an assistant professor of mathematics in 1972. He was promoted to associate professor of mathematics in 1977 and professor of mathematics in 1981.
16
Tech Action
In addition to his work in the classroom, Hamm also served Arkansas Tech in an administrative capacity as head of the Department of Mathematics (1977-82), dean of the School of Systems Science (1982-2001) and vice president for academic affairs (2001-08). The other men granted the title of professor emeritus on March 17 all served Tech in its College of Business. Moore (photographed, right) came to Arkansas Tech as a professor of economics in 1988. He retired from full-time teaching in 2009 but continues to lend his talents to the university as a member of its adjunct faculty.
Smith (photographed, right) was a member of the Arkansas Tech faculty from 1991-2009. He joined the university as an assistant professor of economics. In 1995, he was promoted to associate professor and named head of what was then known as the Business and Economics Department. Smith was promoted to professor and returned to full-time classroom teaching in 2003. Tyler (photographed, right) gave 43 years of service to Arkansas Tech. He was hired as an instructor of economics in 1967, promoted to assistant professor in 1970, named associate professor in 1974 and earned professor status in 1983. Tyler served three stints as head of the Arkansas Tech Department of Business and Economics. He was named dean of the College of Business in 1995, and he held that position until his retirement in 2010. Requirements for professor emeritus status for retired Arkansas Tech University faculty members include 15 or more years of consecutive service and nomination by any member of the university community who holds faculty rank. Authority to grant professor emeritus status rests with the Arkansas Tech University Board of Trustees upon the recommendation of the president of the university.
Biller resigns as VP for student services Dr. Gary M. Biller, vice president for student services
“It has been my pleasure to serve as vice president for
at Arkansas Tech University for the past 11 years, has
student services at Arkansas Tech University,” said Biller. “I
resigned and accepted the same position at Western
am proud of our efforts to enhance the college experience
Illinois University.
for Arkansas Tech students and ensure that they have the best learning environment possible. I am grateful to
Biller joined the Arkansas Tech administration in July
President Dr. Robert C. Brown and the Board of Trustees
2000. He was responsible for student housing, health and
for the opportunity to work on behalf of Tech students for
wellness, counseling services, public safety and parking,
the past 11 years.”
student activities, student success services, career services, the disability and testing center, intramural and recreational sports, Greek life and student government.
Arkansas Tech will conduct a nationwide search for a new vice president for student services.
Today’s Tech
Lamar’s Cromer crowned Miss Tech 2011 Brandi Cromer, an agriculture business major from Lamar, was crowned the 56th Miss Tech on Friday, Feb. 25, during the 2011 Miss Arkansas Tech University Scholarship Pageant at Witherspoon Auditorium. Daughter of Theresa and Terry Cromer of Lamar, Cromer won the CenturyLink Interview Award and a share of the lifestyle and fitness swimsuit competition. She offered a vocal performance of the song “Hurt” during the talent competition. When the time came for Miss Tech 2011 to be announced, Cromer heard her name called by one of her teachers, Miss Tech Executive Director Dr. Jim Collins. Collins is a professor of horticulture at Arkansas Tech. Cromer’s critical issue is Farm to Table. According to the national organization’s Web site, the Farm to Table initiative informs and strengthens the sustainable and
“I’m an agri girl, raised on a farm,” said Cromer.
local foods community by providing a collaborative
“I just love everything about agriculture and I want
journalistic forum for the presentation of a unified
to share that with everyone. I’m very passionate
voice for small farmers, restaurateurs, consumers and
about that, so if you need help with farming give me
everyone in between.
a call.”
Burnett appointed to Board of Trustees Gov. Mike Beebe has appointed Eric Burnett of Fort Smith to the Arkansas Tech University Board of Trustees.
Burnett is Arkansas Tech’s all-time leader in 3-point field goals made (354). He also ranks among the Wonder Boys’ career leaders in scoring (6th, 1,981 points),
Burnett will serve on the board through Jan. 14, 2016.
rebounding (5th, 775), free throws made (7th, 397),
He replaces Dean Wilburn of Harrison, who was chairman
assists (8th, 343), steals (T-8th, 150) and field goals made
of the Tech Board of Trustees in 2010. Wilburn concluded
(10th, 615).
a decade of service to the board on Jan. 14, 2011. He was named an NAIA All-American in 1993 and he Burnett is the head boys’ basketball coach at Fort
was a two-time All-Arkansas Intercollegiate Conference
Smith Northside High School. He was named to that
selection. The Wonder Boys won 83 games and the 1993
position in April 2010 after spending the previous five
AIC title during Burnett’s career.
seasons in the same role at Springdale Har-Ber High School.
Gov. Beebe’s appointment of Burnett completes the five-member Arkansas Tech Board of Trustees for the
Burnett also has four years experience as the head
2011 calendar year.
boys’ basketball coach at Fort Smith Southside High School.
Burnett joins fellow board members John Ed Chambers III of Danville (chairman), Leigh Whiteside
A 1994 Tech graduate, Burnett earned four letters as a member of the Wonder Boys basketball team.
of Russellville (vice chairman), Charles Blanchard of Russellville (secretary) and Tom Kennedy of Little Rock.
Spring 2011
17
Today’s Tech
Flower, Grate top 2011 seniors at Tech Individuals who study and participate in public
Son of Brenda and Mike Flower of Harrison, Flower
relations do so because they enjoy celebrating the
graduated with a degree in journalism and public relations
achievements of others.
with a minor in business in May. Flower has applied to graduate school.
On April 18, a pair of Arkansas Tech University public relations students got their moment in the spotlight.
Grate served as president and public relations and recruitment officer for Students In Free Enterprise
Travis Flower of Harrison and Lydia Grate of Atkins
Travis Flower
(SIFE). She also belonged to the Society of Professional
received the top two honors available to students
Journalists, the Public Relations Student Society of
at Arkansas Tech University during the 2011 Student
America and the forensics program at Tech.
Leadership Banquet. “It means so much to me just to know that so Flower was presented with the Alfred J. Crabaugh
many people have believed in me,” said Grate. “I’m so
Award, which is given annually to the most outstanding
thankful and grateful for the people who have helped
senior male student at Arkansas Tech.
me and guided me along the way. I’ve learned so much in the classroom and being a part of so many student
Grate received the Margaret Young Award, which
organizations has given me the opportunity to take on
goes to the most outstanding senior female student at
leadership roles and build relationships with my friends
Arkansas Tech each year.
and my teachers.”
Flower was president of the Student Government Lydia Grate
18
Tech Action
Association (SGA) for the 2010-11 academic year.
Her other affiliations at Arkansas Tech included student radio station KXRJ 91.9 FM, the Arkansas Tech student television station, the Student Government
Flower’s service to the university included work with the Arkansas Tech Presidential Leadership Cabinet, the
Association, Volunteer Action Council and the university standing committee for guidance and counseling.
Interfraternity Council (IFC), the Student Activities Board, the Volunteer Action Council and the Tech Loyalty Fund class gift committee.
Grate earned the Dr. Robert Edwards Book Scholarship, a Dean’s Scholarship, a departmental performance scholarship and multiple Dean’s List awards at Arkansas
“It’s breathtaking, honestly,” said Flower in reaction
Tech.
to receiving his award. “I’ve been involved in so many things on this campus the last four years through student
“One of the especially great aspects of teaching is
government, through my fraternity and through Greek
watching the personal growth in your students,” said
life in general. To receive this award means a lot to me. It
Norton. “Lydia was obviously a conscientious student
means there is someone out there who realizes that I am
from the time she arrived at Arkansas Tech, and now she
trying to help the university and sees what I am doing.”
has grown to become a savvy public relations professional with a wealth of skills. She is never satisfied with good
The 2009 SGA Senator of the Year at Arkansas Tech, Flower received the Spark Award in 2009 for his service to
enough. She is the ultimate role model for her fellow public relations students.”
student government and he was twice honored with the IFC Academic Excellence Award.
Daughter of Glenda Brown-Grate of Pottsville, Grate graduated from Arkansas Tech in May with a degree
“What I have enjoyed most about Travis is his sense
in public relations, broadcast journalism and speech
of maturity and responsibility,” said Dr. Hanna Norton,
communication with minors in business and history.
instructor to both Flower and Grate in public relations courses. “Those qualities extend to his relationships with
Grate has accepted an opportunity to serve in
his family and his fellow students. He is a natural leader of
the Peace Corps for a period of 27 months following
any team that he is a part of.”
graduation. She will work in the African nation of Togo.
Ozark Campus News
PATH TO PROGRESS CAMPAIGN
Arkansas Tech University-Ozark Campus has announced the Path to Progress campaign, a private fundraising initiative that has a goal of raising $100,000 for the construction of a new half-mile walking trail around campus (shown, below). The walking trail will feature a new entrance marker to the Arkansas Tech-Ozark Campus, a matching marker with donor listing on signage, a water feature, lighting, landscaping and benches. Leigh Burns Whiteside is serving as campaign chair, while Bud and Dr. Jo Anne Harper, Eddie Melton, Lonnie Turner, Don Burns, C.A. Kuykendall and Michael Smith are on the campaign committee. “As a native of Ozark, a member of the Arkansas Tech University Board of Trustees and chair of this campaign, I am honored to lead this fundraising project for the Ozark Campus,” said Whiteside. “This project will enhance campus life for students, as well as provide fitness opportunities and beautification for the community. We look forward to working with the friends and alumni of the Ozark Campus to ensure the success of this project.” Call (866) 225-2884 or visit www.atu.edu/ozark to learn more about making a gift to this project.
Spring 2011
19
Development Corner
Class of ‘11 Donates $2,000 to loyalty fund Members of the Arkansas Tech University Class of 2011 made a collective donation of $2,000 to the Tech Loyalty Fund (TLF). This was the sixth consecutive year in which members of the Arkansas Tech senior class formed a committee for the purpose of asking their peers to begin a lifetime tradition of giving to Arkansas Tech by making their first gift to the university before graduation. Jayne Jones (far right), vice president for development, accepted the donation on behalf of the Arkansas Tech Foundation. Also photographed are Class of 2011 TLF committee members (from left) Keyvan Sierra, Tesa Murray, Danielle Jolie, Lydia Grate and Dana Florian.
IN MEMORY/HONOR OF (October 1, 2010 through April 30, 2011) The following individuals made gifts to Tech in memory or in honor of a friend or loved one
20
Tech Action
In Honor of Bill Abernathy Faye Abernathy
In Memory of Michael Duran Fabricio and Karen Duran
In Honor of Phil Parker Robert and Susan Dunn
In Memory of Susan Adams Ross and Rita Adams
In Memory of Samantha Hale Mike and Shauna Donnell
In Memory of Lena Rexinger Dolores Beene
In Memory of Heartsill and Polly Bartlett Bill and Suzanne Harmon
In Honor of Bill and Suzanne Harmon Johnny and Julie Morgan
In Memory of Selma Smith Bill and Suzanne Harmon
In Honor of Dr. Linda Bean Mike and Kandis Croom
In Memory of Sam Hindsman Ferne Shinn Anderson
In Honor of Timothy Smith Robert and Susan Dunn
In Honor of Kenneth Bowden Bill and Suzanne Harmon
In Memory of Sandra Hodges James Collins John Gilbreath Ernest and Jamie Hodges Carol Martin Robert and Dorothy Northup Bob and Judy Taylor James and Lea Witt
In Memory of Elgin Spence Johnny and Julie Morgan David and Dana Moseley
In Memory of Firman Bynum Travis and Lou Adams Bill and Suzanne Harmon In Memory of Bernice Clayton David and Dana Moseley In Memory of Justin Collins Lyle and Lisa Wheeler In Honor of Sarah Cotton David and Dana Moseley In Memory of Jason Croom Joseph Croom Mike and Kandis Croom In Memory of Joyce Dempsey Travis and Lou Adams Agnes Alford Marshall and Betty Cole Betty Lienhart Johnny and Julie Morgan David and Dana Moseley In Memory of Nona Dirksmeyer Carol Martin
In Memory of Kenneth Kersh Jeffrey Cook Jacqueline Gardner Tom and Jayne Jones Tomela Keenan Mary Ann Rollans
In Memory of Christina Stinnett Joann Hays Charlotte Linch Ronald and Joanne Ownbey Bobby and Linda Rush In Memory of Audrie Stonecipher Johnny and Julie Morgan In Memory of Reggie Talley Mary Ann Rollans
In Memory of Jim Ed McGee Johnnie and Carolee Hamilton
In Memory of Thomas Tate Barbara Tate
In Memory of Gordon and Joyce McLerran Arnold and Katherine Bowden
In Memory of Roy and Mary Taylor Mary “Doy” Branch
In Memory of Harlan McMillan Bryn and Tracy Bagwell Richard and Mary Cohoon David Garrett Johnnie and Carolee Hamilton Helen Hawkins Bill Pullen
In Memory of Ewell Welch LaVoy Welch In Memory of Gene Witherspoon Johnny and Julie Morgan In Memory of Mike “Bear” Womack Nelda Womack
Miss the Winter 2011 Action? Due to an unexplained failure on the part of the U.S. Postal Service, many Arkansas Tech alumni and friends did not receive the winter 2011 issue of Tech Action. Arkansas Tech has maintained an ongoing dialogue with the U.S. Postal Service in an attempt to avoid similar situations in the future. In the meantime, please visit www.techties.atu.edu to read the winter 2011 Tech Action online.
Class Notes Marriages Dr. Sean McDougal (BIOL ’88) and Shannon Moon (ENGR ’91) were married Aug. 12, 2010. Sean served on the Tech Board of Trustees from 1997-2007. Sarah Fink (HIM ’07) and Donald Johnson were married March 12, 2011. Saira Khan (CRWR/ENGL ’07 & M.A. ENGL ’10) and Shane Hendrix (PHYS SCI ’08) were married April 9, 2011. They live in Russellville. Ashley Watts (M.A. EDU ’10) and Dillon Carr (BUS ’10) were married March 19, 2011. Ashley is a teacher at Russellville High School.
Births David Conley (BUAD ’94) and his wife, Heather, a
Ryan Davis (AGBU ’04) and Sarah Milam Davis (ECON ’08), a son, Wyatt Hudson, April 12, 2011. Ashlee Giles (PSY ’04 & M.S. CSP ’07) and Robert Giles (RPA ’06), a son, James Todd, Oct. 7, 2010. J.T. has one sister, Shelby Denise. Ashlee is admissions and post secondary advisor at Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas in Nashville. Robert is a park ranger at Cossatot River State Park. They live in Wickes. April Patterson Clark (MED ASST ’05) and her husband, Nathan, a daughter, Hayden Isabella, March 28, 2011. Hayden has one sister, Lillie (3). They live in Clarksville. Justus Bowman (SOC ’06) and Andrea Parton Bowman (FR ’07), a daughter, Ruth Ellen, March 5, 2011.
daughter, Mayden Lynn, April 4, 2011. Mayden has three siblings: sisters Destiny (14) and Ashton (10)
Natalie McMillen Jones (’06) and her husband,
and brother Taylor (6).
Chaz, a son, Peyton, April 4, 2011.
Greg Woolf (’95) and his wife, Kelly, a daughter,
David Kern (MGMT/MKTG ’06) and Meghan Bailey
Brenley Kiel, March 24, 2011. Brenley has one sister,
Kern (’09), a son, Christopher Paul, April 5, 2011.
Mailey (7). Gina Parker Rockwell (SPH ’06) and Garren A.J. Burk (BUAD ’97) and Natalie Wheat Burk (RPA
Rockwell (M.Ed PE ’07), a daughter, Gabriella
’03), a son, Bear Andrew, March 20, 2011.
Elizabeth, April 12, 2011.
Bryan Fisher (NTRL SCI ’99) and Paige Cooley Fisher
Clint Mainer (MGMT/MKTG ’07) and Kendra Powell
(ENGL ’03), a son, Jett Anderson, March 10, 2011.
Mainer (HEPE ’09), a son, Jake Lee, April 12, 2011.
They live in Russellville. Drew Chronister (MGMT/MKTG ’08) and Kari Eric Pratt (FW ’02) and his wife, Stephanie, a
Bryant Chronister (REHAB SCI ’08), a daughter,
daughter, Adalyn Kambyl, April 18, 2011. Adalyn has
Adalynn Presley, Feb. 9, 2011. Adalynn has one
one sister, Averie Klaire (2). They live in Russellville.
brother, Brayden Dane (3). They live in Russellville.
Josh Buchanan (AGBU ’03) and Irene Flores
Edward Wayne Palmer (MGMT/MKTG ’08) and his
Buchanan (MGMT/MKTG ’09), a daughter, Mia
wife, Jenny, a son, Kamden Allen, March 19, 2011.
McKenzy, Feb. 15, 2011. They live in Dardanelle.
Kamden has three siblings: sister Taylor (11) and brothers Landon (6) and Carson (6).
Brittany Claunch Lehman (MGMT/MKTG ’03) and her husband, Tim, a daughter, Ellie Madison, Feb. 23,
Ozzy Dean Picton (EMTB ’09) and his wife, Jaime, a
2011. They live in Benton.
son, Brysyn Dean, April 8, 2011.
Sandra Elaine Miller (SPAN/SPH ’03) and her
Chandra Lanelle Smith (AGBU ’10) and Jonathan
husband, Samuel, a son, Simeon Tim, Feb. 22, 2011.
David Smith (ALUM), a daughter, Harper Lanelle,
Simeon has three siblings: sister Abigail (2) and
April 4, 2011. Harper has two siblings: sister Calin
brothers Gabriel (6) and Maximus (4). They live in
and brother Maddox. They live in Russellville.
Morrilton.
Spring 2011
21
Class Notes 1950s
1970s
Ruben H. Johnson (AGRI ’50) was honored when the
Jean Jewell Moreno (ART EDU ’73) was named 2010
city of Magazine named its rural fire department the
teacher of the year at Elberta Middle School in Elberta,
Ruben H. Johnson Fire and Rescue Complex. Ruben
Ala. Jean has taught for 20 years, including 15 years in
served with the University of Arkansas Cooperative
Baldwin County, Ala.
Extension Service for 34 years and retired at the rank of colonel from the Arkansas Army National Guard. He
Charlie Sorrels (HEPE ’76) stepped down after 24 years
and his wife, Charlotte, celebrated their 60th wedding
as head football coach at Atkins High School, but he
anniversary on Dec. 15, 2010.
will continue to serve the school district as director of athletics. Charlie compiled a record of 176-95-1 as
Dan McGuire (ENGR ’58) was elected president of the
head football coach at Atkins. He led the Red Devils to
Plastic Pioneers of America. The organization consists
eight conference championships and 19 berths in the
of 250 members who have spent at least 25 years in the
state playoffs.
plastics business and made noteworthy contributions to the industry.
Donnie Whitson (HEPE ’79) resigned as principal at East Hills Middle School in Greenwood effective June
Elbert T. “Tommy” Townsend (HIST/POL SCI ’59)
30. Donnie served in the Greenwood School District for
received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine from Gov.
30 years. He was named the 2009 Arkansas Association
Beverly Perdue of North Carolina on March 16, 2011.
of Educational Administrators Middle School Principal
The Order of the Long Leaf Pine was established
of the Year.
in 1965 as a way for North Carolina to recognize extraordinary public service. Tommy was the longtime
22
Tech Action
1980s
head of the New Hanover County Veterans Council
Scott Smothers (BIOL ’81) was named lead medical
and is a past president of the North Carolina Veterans
staff associate at CSL Plasma in San Antonio, Texas. He
Council. He was also a founding board member and
and his wife, Shirley Henderson Smothers (ALUM), will
treasurer for the Cape Fear Literacy Council.
celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary in July 2011.
1960s
Dr. Randall Wight (PSY ’81) will assume the duties of
Killian Middleton Smith (LANG/LIT ’63) and her
dean of the Ouachita Baptist University W.H. Sutton
husband, Tim, were awarded the community hero award
School of Social Sciences on July 1, 2011. Randall has
for environmental change at Arabia Mountain Nature
served as chair of the Ouachita Baptist Department of
Preserve in DeKalb County, Ga., on April 10, 2011.
Psychology since 2003, and he has served on the OBU faculty since 1986.
Dr. Jim Edson (CHEM ’65) was honored as the 2010 University of Arkansas at Monticello teacher of the year
Come On, You know you like us Visit www.facebook.com and “like” these official Tech Facebook pages: • Arkansas Tech University • Arkansas Tech University Athletics • Arkansas Tech University - Alumni
1990s
by the Monticello-Drew County Chamber of Commerce.
Tom Berryhill (BUAD ’91) accepted the position of vice
Jim is a professor of geology at UAM and has served on
president and branch manager for the First State Bank
the faculty there since 1977.
branch near Arkansas Tech in Russellville.
Barry Birkhead (BIOL ’67) was appointed to the State
Rodney Parks (ECON ’91) was elected vice chairman of
Emergency Response Commission (SERC) by Gov. Mike
the Arkansas State Banking Board on April 21, 2011.
Beebe of Arkansas. Dr. Cora Jones (MUED ’94) completed a Master of Robert Dale (MATH ’68) was honored with a retirement
Science degree from the University of Phoenix in
reception at First State Bank on April 14, 2011. Robert
December 2010. She adopted twin boys — Kendrick
is stepping aside from full-time duties as senior vice
Antwone Columbus Jones and Kenneth Cortez William
president of mortgage lending, but he will continue
Jones — on Aug. 16, 2010. Cora has been employed by
to be associated with First State Bank on a consulting
the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services for
basis.
more than 10 years. She was recently assigned to the juvenile justice division.
Class Notes Roxanne Cox Benincosa (ACCT ’97) was promoted
Rebecca Freyaldenhoven (SPAN ’02) is employed
to senior manager for Beall, Barclay and Co.
by the Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences
Roxanne is a certified public accountant. She lives in
and the Arts through the Office of Distance Learning
Bentonville.
as a Spanish teacher. She works from her home in Russellville.
Leah Richardson (NURS ’97) accepted a position as nurse educator at the University of Arkansas at
Melissa Schriver (REHAB SCI ’03 & A.S. ECED ’05)
Little Rock. Leah lives in Conway with her husband,
was named director for Kidz University in Conway in
Michael, and their son, Brady.
January 2011.
Jared Wood (ECON ’97) and Dr. Jeneen Wood (RPA
Patricia Ann Whorton (ECED ’04) welcomed her
’99) welcomed Parker Sloan Wood to their family on
fourth grandson, Israel Christopher Such, on April
Feb. 23, 2011. He was born on April 18, 2010.
4, 2011.
2000s
Chris Taylor (ACCT/ECON/MATH ’07) was promoted
James Brashear (MATH ’00 & ACCT ’06) was
to serve as an in-charge accountant in the tax
promoted to senior accountant for Beall, Barclay
department for Beall, Barclay and Co. He lives in
and Co. He recently received his certified valuation
Fort Smith.
analyst designation from the National Association of Certified Valuation Analysts. He lives in Fort Smith.
Kari Powers (HIST ’05 & M.LA ’09) assumed the duties of state drug court coordinator for the
Josh Masters (ACCT ’00) was promoted to senior
Arkansas Supreme Court in February 2011.
manager for Beall, Barclay and Co. Josh is a certified public accountant. He lives in Lavaca.
Sara Milam (HEPE ’06) was promoted to manager for seven corporate wellness programs for Cooper
Jason Wallace (HEPE ’00) was named head girls’
Corporate Solutions in Dallas, Texas.
Spring 2011
23
basketball coach at Mount St. Mary’s Academy in Little Rock. Jason was previously the assistant
Nathaniel Scott (ELEC ENGR ’07) was promoted
girls’ basketball coach at North Little Rock High
to general manager of Sentinel Power Services, a
School, where he helped NLRHS head coach Daryl
consulting service in Tulsa, Okla.
Fimple (HEPE ’97) win the 2010 Class 7A state championship and put together a 59-game winning
Katherine Harst (MUED ’09) was named Big
streak from 2009-2011.
Brothers and Big Sisters of Arkansas Big Sister of the Year. She is an elementary music teacher for the
Matthew Dillman (RPA ’01) was hired as head golf professional at Thousand Hills Golf Resort in Branson, Mo. Matt is a PGA of America Class A member.
Russellville School District.
2010s Kirsten Boyd (ACCT & MGMT/MKTG ’10) accepted a position as staff accountant with BKD, LLP in its
Melissa Kelly (JOUR ’01) was promoted to
Rogers office. She received the Arkansas Tech College
assignment manager for television stations KHBS/
of Business Ambassador Award in April 2011.
KHOG and 4029tv.com in Northwest Arkansas and Fort Smith. She has worked at KHBS/KHOG since
Ronald D. Hudson (M.S. CSP ’10) received the 2011
2002, rising from associate producer to reporter to
Dr. Jim Ed McGee Award as the most outstanding
co-anchor of the station’s morning program.
graduate student at Arkansas Tech University. Ron
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has performed three tours of duty overseas as a David N. Wyatt (ACCT ’01 & ECON ’03) was
member of the Arkansas National Guard. He serves
promoted to in-charge accountant for Beall, Barclay
as coordinator of student recruitment at Arkansas
and Co. He lives in Barling.
State University-Beebe.
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Obituaries
tech
24
Tech Action
Friends We’ll Miss
John Rankin (AS ’37) died April 12, 2011. John served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. A former mayor of Russellville, John resigned that office to accept a position with the Bureau of Land Management in the U.S. Department of the Interior. Following appointments in Washington, D.C., and Denver, Colo., John was transferred to the Bureau of Land Management New Orleans Outer Continental Shelf office and began a 25-year career in the development of minerals and then transportation systems in the Gulf of Mexico. He presided over the first $1 billion sale of oil and gas leases in the Gulf of Mexico. John retired in 1985 and was presented with the U.S. Department of the Interior Award for Excellence of
Roberta “Nan” Carnahan Cocke (MATH ’64) died June 16, 2010. Nan served as editor of the Arka Tech newspaper and played on the extramural women’s tennis team during her time as a student at Arkansas Tech. She joined the staff of the Warrensburg Daily Star-Journal newspaper in Warrensburg, Mo., on Nov. 1, 1978, and stayed there for nearly 30 years. She served as editor for the Daily StarJournal from 1984-2008. Nan lived in Warrensburg, Mo. She was 67.
Service, Meritorious Service and Distinguished Service. John lived in Russellville. He was 92.
education, including serving the University of Central Arkansas as its assistant men’s basketball coach (198190), assistant athletic director (1990-93), head men’s basketball coach (1993-99) and interim men’s athletic director (1999-2000). He completed his tenure at UCA as a member of the intramural sports staff before retiring in 2010. Arch lived in Conway. He was 68.
Olen Raymond Churchill (’38) died Feb. 27, 2011. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Olen was later superintendent of the Hector School District and coordinator of secondary instruction for the Arkansas Department of Education. After his retirement Olen served as executive director of the Arkansas Association of Secondary School Administrations. He served as president of the Arkansas Tech Alumni Association in 1956-57. Olen lived in Little Rock. He was 83. J.C. Noggle (AGBU ’48) died Jan. 29, 2011. J.C. earned a Ph.D. from the University of Maryland in 1965 and spent his career in agriculture research. J.C. lived in Vilonia. He was 84.
Arch M. Jones (HEPE ’64) died March 25, 2011. Arch played basketball under head coach Sam Hindsman at Arkansas Tech. He went on to a 45-year career in
Martha Ann Julius Pearson (ACCT ’78) died April 21, 2011. She was retired from a career as a certified public accountant. Martha lived in Clarksville. She was 55. Judy Hood Taylor (PSY ’79) died March 15, 2011. She earned a master’s degree and a Doctor of Education degree from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville following her undergraduate education at Arkansas Tech. Judy lived in Russellville. She was 71.
William “Billie” Taylor (’48) died April 4, 2011. Billie served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He later visited 50 different countries as part of a team of WWII pilots who transported missionaries to posts around the world. He wrote about those experiences in his book “The Ambassadors.” Billie also worked in his family’s business, Taylor Flowers of Russellville, from the time he was a child until it was sold. Billie lived in Clearwater, Fla. He was 86.
Margaret L. Harp (REHAB SCI ’86) died April 11, 2011. She worked as an alcohol rehabilitation counselor and as an instructor at Arkansas Tech. Margaret lived in Fort Smith. She was 82.
Samuel H. Jones (’51) died Jan. 23, 2011. Sam served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II and was retired from a career as a lineman for AT&T. Sam lived in Russellville. He was 86.
Dr. E. Sue Doss (FMR FACULTY) died April 19, 2011. She served on the English faculty at Arkansas Tech from 1956-93. Sue succeeded Dr. Lillian Massie as chairman of the Division of Languages and Literature at Arkansas Tech in 1963 and maintained a leadership position in what later became the Department of English and Foreign Languages until 1980. She held the title of professor emeritus of English at Arkansas Tech. Sue lived in Russellville. She was 88.
William N. Abernathy (’59) died April 29, 2011. A veteran of the U.S. Army, Bill served as Pope County sheriff from 1971-76 and as Pope County judge from 1983-88. Bill lived in Russellville. He was 77.
Mona Diane Hiemer (M.Ed. ELED ’98) died April 3, 2011. Mona taught at Dover Elementary School for 28 years. Mona lived in Russellville. She was 51.
Tech Athletics
WALKING AWAY A WINNER Golden Suns leave GSC as champions Two years ago, Arkansas Tech women’s basketball coach Dave Wilbers put together a deep and talented recruiting class with a goal in mind — beat Delta State, reclaim the upper hand in the greatest rivalry in NCAA Division II women’s basketball and win championships. Mission accomplished. The Golden Suns won the Gulf South Conference West Division title, the GSC Tournament crown and the NCAA Division II South Region championship for a second consecutive year during the 2010-11 season. After losing 12 consecutive women’s basketball games against Delta State from 2005-10, Arkansas Tech was 6-2 against the Lady Statesmen over the past two seasons. Four of those six wins came in the postseason — twice in the GSC Tournament championship game and twice in the NCAA Division II South Region final. “Everybody always told me you can’t beat Delta State, you can’t overcome that,” said Wilbers. “These girls did that. They are a bunch of Arkansas kids who wanted to come to Arkansas Tech, and they are winners.”
Arkansas Tech’s 85-77 triumph over Delta State in the 2011 NCAA Division II South Region championship game might have been the sweetest of them all because it was the last time that the Golden Suns and the Lady Statesmen are guaranteed of meeting on a basketball floor. Arkansas Tech will move forward to the new NCAA Division II Great American Conference in fall 2011. That transition will close an era of regular matchups between the program with the highest winning percentage in NCAA Division II women’s basketball history — Delta State — and the program with the second-highest winning percentage at that level — Arkansas Tech. The 2010-11 Golden Suns saw their NCAA Tournament run come to an end with a 69-58 loss to eventual national runner-up Michigan Tech in the national quarterfinals at the St. Joseph Civic Arena in St. Joseph, Mo. Arkansas Tech completed the 2010-11 women’s basketball season with an overall record of 30-3, and the Golden Suns were 61-6 over the past two seasons.
Spring 2011
25
ABOVE: Shaquilah Davis, who was injured in the GSC Tournament championship game, accepted the NCAA South Region championship trophy on behalf of the Golden Suns.
JOIN A WINNING TEAM Check out the back cover of this issue of Tech Action to learn how you can join the Green and Gold Club and help Arkansas Tech continue its winning ways in the new Great American Conference!
Tech Athletics
GSC West men’s basketball title goes to Tech Doug Karleskint could be a head coach for many years before he is involved in more dramatic finishes in critical games than he was in his first season as the head men’s basketball coach at Arkansas Tech. The Wonder Boys earned their second consecutive Gulf South Conference West Division championship and made their third straight trip to the NCAA Division II Tournament during the 2010-11 season.
Doug Karleskint
Laithe Massey
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Tech Action
It was there that senior point guard Laithe Massey, who completed his career ranked second in school history in steals and fourth in school history in assists, hit one of the greatest and least likely shots in Arkansas Tech men’s basketball history. His 3-pointer with three seconds remaining — which was just his eighth 3-pointer of the season — gave the Wonder Boys a 61-58 win over Benedict College in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.
Arkansas Tech finished with an overall record of 25-6, giving the Wonder Boys a cumulative record of 96-28 the last four years. Tech suffered through seven consecutive losing men’s basketball seasons before its current run of prosperity.
Arkansas Tech’s second-round game against regional host Alabama-Huntsville was equally thrilling, but this time it was the Chargers who came up with the big plays at the big moments.
The Wonder Boys won their first 13 conference games of the season, including a 72-71 overtime win at Harding on Feb. 24 to clinch the GSC West title.
UAH outscored the Wonder Boys 9-0 over the final 1:08 of overtime to earn a 74-71 win and end Arkansas Tech’s March Madness dreams.
The Bisons got their revenge with an 80-61 victory over Arkansas Tech in the GSC Tournament championship game, but the Wonder Boys earned an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament and headed to Huntsville, Ala., for the NCAA Division II South Regional.
Karleskint was named GSC West coach of the year and Massey was named All-NCAA South Region in recognition of their efforts during the 2010-11 season. Massey was joined on the All-GSC West honor squad by teammates Johnie Davis and Jeremy Dunbar.
Millington magic: Wonder Boys reach final day Arkansas Tech advanced to the final day of the Gulf South Conference Baseball Tournament for the first time in a decade during the 2011 event at USA Stadium in Millington, Tenn. The Wonder Boys came out of the elimination bracket with three wins in three days, but a 4-3 loss to Harding on the final day of the tournament ended Tech’s GSC title dreams one game short of the championship contest. Head coach Dave Dawson and the Wonder Boys finished the 2011 season with a 32-19 record. Matt Johnson (photographed) hit .454 with nine home runs and 50 runs batted in to become Tech’s first GSC West baseball player of the year. He set new single-season school records for hits (99), runs (79) and stolen bases (37).
2011 Arkansas Tech Football Schedule Saturday, Sept. 3 Saturday, Sept. 10 Saturday, Sept. 17 Saturday, Sept. 24 Saturday, Oct. 1 Saturday, Oct. 8 Saturday, Oct. 15 Saturday, Oct. 22 Saturday, Oct. 29 Saturday, Nov. 5
*at Arkansas-Monticello at Southwest Baptist Delta State West Alabama (Family Day) at Central Missouri North Alabama *at Southern Arkansas *SE Oklahoma State (Homecoming) *East Central (Senior Day) *at SW Oklahoma State
Monticello, Ark. 6 p.m. Bolivar, Mo. 6 p.m. Russellville, Ark. 6 p.m. Russellville, Ark. 6 p.m. Warrensburg, Mo. 1:30 p.m. Russellville, Ark. 6 p.m. Magnolia, Ark. 2:30 p.m. Russellville, Ark. 6 p.m. Russellville, Ark. 2 p.m. Weatherford, Okla. 2 p.m.
*Denotes Great American Conference game | Times are Central and are subject to change. | Home games are played at Thone Stadium at Buerkle Field All games broadcast in the Russellville area on KWKK 100.9 FM and around the world at www.athletics.atu.edu
Tech Athletics
Golden Suns dethrone 5-time GSC champions Arkansas Tech is leaving the Gulf South Conference with the league’s women’s golf championship trophy under its arm. Head coach Amy White and the Golden Suns posted a final-round score of 310 on April 18 to run away from a nine-team field and post a 16-stroke victory in the 36-hole tournament. Tech had a two-day total of 636, while fivetime defending champion West Florida finished second with a score of 652. It is the first conference championship in the 10-year history of the Arkansas Tech women’s golf program, and it comes in Tech’s final year of membership in the GSC. Arkansas Tech will move forward to the new NCAA Division II Great American Conference in fall 2011.
Tech takes third GSC West softball crown Arkansas Tech was picked by league head coaches to finish fifth in the Gulf South Conference West Division during the 2011 softball season. So much for preseason polls. The Golden Suns amassed a 34-19 overall record and a 23-7 record in GSC games on their way to winning the GSC West softball title for the third time in the last four years. Arkansas Tech won 21 of its last 27 regular season games on its way to
Spring 2011
the regular season league title.
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