Tech Action Summer 2011 Dr. Jason Warnick Col. Carl Baswell inducted into breaking new ground with 4-5. boxing Hall of Distinction. See pages research. See pages 6-7.
Tech Action
Help us remember a legend at Homecoming Sixty-four years ago, one of the greatest coaches in
That process, and the private fundraising effort that
the history of collegiate athletics in our state was hired by
followed, resulted in the construction of Hindsman Tower
Arkansas Tech.
south of the Pendergraft Library and Technology Center.
During Homecoming 2011, we will pause to remember
simply love Tech and want to honor one of its legends,
dedication of Hindsman Tower.
we hope that you will join us for the Hindsman Tower
dedication ceremony at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 22.
Coach Hindsman won 355 games and 11 Arkansas
Intercollegiate Conference championships during his
Make plans to spend the day with us. Tour the new
remarkable two-decade run as the Wonder Boys’ head
Baswell Techionery. Enjoy Party at the Plaza outside Thone
basketball coach from 1947-66. He also coached the
Stadium at Buerkle Field. Cheer on the Wonder Boys to
Wonder Boys to two AIC football titles and two AIC
victory in the Homecoming football game that evening.
bowling titles.
I am proud to be the new director of alumni relations
Many of the young people that he influenced during his
at Arkansas Tech. Pride is something we should all feel
days as a coach and physical education instructor at Tech
about our university. Arkansas Tech is making a difference
went on to become distinguished alumni, leaders in their
for our state by producing graduates who will lead our
chosen career fields and credits to their communities.
economic development during the coming century.
There is no doubt that Coach Hindsman made a significant contribution to the growth and development
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If Coach Hindsman played a role in your life or if you
Sam Hindsman and celebrate his legacy with the
Join us to celebrate Arkansas Tech at Homecoming 2011. See you there!
of Arkansas Tech. We would not be the university we are Tech Action
without his efforts and the tutelage he offered to so many. Several of those former Hindsman students came together in summer 2010 for the purpose of developing a
Kelly Davis ‘81
fitting memorial to the man on the Arkansas Tech campus.
Director of Alumni Relations
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. 3. 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, 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.
Arkansas Tech Homecoming
Homecoming 2011 at Arkansas Tech University will be a time to reconnect with long-time friends. It will be a time to welcome the addition of two landmark structures on campus. It will be a time to cheer on the Wonder Boys in their inaugural season of Great American Conference competition. It will be a time for everyone who loves Arkansas Tech to return and celebrate all that was, all that is and all that will be. Join us for Homecoming 2011 as we present the new Baswell Techionery student union facility, dedicate Hindsman Tower and generally enjoy a fall weekend in the beautiful Arkansas River Valley. A complete schedule of events is listed on pages 4-5. Fill out the registration form on the back cover and return it to the Alumni Office. Please call (479) 968-0242, send e-mail to alumni@atu.edu or visit www.techties.atu.edu for more information. We look forward to seeing you at Arkansas Tech Homecoming 2011!
Summer 2011
3
Arkansas Tech Homecoming
Homecoming 2011 Friday, October 21 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Tech Bookstore Open W.O. Young Building 10:30 a.m. Homecoming Golf Classic (3-Person Scramble) Russellville Country Club 10:30: Check-In 11:00: Lunch 11:45: Welcome 12:00: Shotgun Start 12 p.m. Ladies “Champagne Bingo� Luncheon Lake Point Conference Center Dining Room
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Tech Action
10 a.m.-4 p.m. (Friday and Saturday) Tech Museum Open Techionery 6:30 p.m. Hall of Distinction Reunion Dinner (Invitation Only) Chambers Cafeteria East Dining Hall 8 p.m. to Midnight Alumni & Friends Reception Russellville Country Club
•
Arkansas Tech Homecoming
Saturday, October 22 9 a.m. Hindsman Players Reunion Breakfast Chambers Cafeteria West Dining Hall 10:30 a.m. Hindsman Tower Dedication South Lawn of Pendergraft Library 11:30 a.m. Alumni Gold Registration - Class of 1961 Chambers Cafeteria West Dining Hall 11:45 a.m. Alumni Gold Luncheon - Class of 1961 Chambers Cafeteria West Dining Hall 1-5 p.m. Bookstore Open W.O. Young Building 2 p.m. Homecoming Parade Downtown Russellville 3 p.m. Alumni Band Witherspoon Hall 3 p.m. Class of 1959 & 1960 Reunion Tomlinson Hall 3 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Homecoming Tailgate (Meal $7 Per Person) Centennial Plaza (Outside Thone Stadium) •Reunion Groups: College Student Personnel alumni, Intramurals, College of Business, T Club, Band, Parks, Recreation and Hospitality Administration alumni 4 p.m. T Club Meeting/1971 Football Team Reunion Hull Building Lettermen’s Lounge 5:30 p.m. Pre-Game Activities Thone Stadium at Buerkle Field 6 p.m. Arkansas Tech Wonder Boys vs. Southeastern Oklahoma State Thone Stadium at Buerkle Field
See Back Cover To register!
Summer 2011
5
Cover Story
6
Tech Action
THE SWEET SCIENCE Tech faculty member finds untapped research area Dr. Jason Warnick fondly recalls the moment when the sport of boxing caught his attention. “When I was in third grade, we had one of the free HBO
Warnick presented his findings at the 16th annual International Stress and Behavior Neuroscience and Biopsychiatry Conference in New Orleans, La., in June.
weekends,” said Warnick. “I watched one of ‘Marvelous’
An ordinary evening with his wife in front of the
Marvin Hagler’s fights, and I remember the presentation
television was the light bulb that illuminated Warnick’s
and the excitement. I was totally drawn to the sport.”
path to research the pugilistic arts.
Now, as an assistant professor of psychology at
“We were watching Friday Night Fights (on ESPN2)
Arkansas Tech University, Warnick is combining his
one week, and it was an older fighter against a younger
passions to research the mental side of mankind’s oldest
fighter,” said Warnick. “The two announcers began to
sport and break new ground in sports psychology.
have a debate about which is better — would the older fighter be craftier and have more tricks up his sleeve, or
He analyzed pre-fight comments made by professional
would this younger, hungry fighter hold the advantage.
boxers over a 21-month span. Utilizing the Language
They were having a good argument over it, and my
Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC) software, he was able to
wife turned to me and asked if there was any research
identify word usage patterns that can serve as predictors
on this. I’d never even thought to look at boxing for
of success or failure in the boxing ring.
research.”
Cover Story It turns out Warnick was not alone. He investigated research databases and found that previous psychological study of boxing had focused on head trauma. Since learning of the void, Warnick has researched such boxing topics as officiating bias, judging bias and fighter safety before exploring his more recent linguistic study.
Words that center on the
“Positive emotions suggest more than just being in a good place mentally. They suggest that a fighter is ready.”
ideas of health and work also correlated with success for boxers. Fighters who used words that conveyed tentativeness and those who had increased grammatical nuances (such as third-person plural words, impersonal pronouns and use of past tense) were more likely to lose their upcoming fight.
“It appealed to me because here is the oldest
— Dr. Jason Warnick
Another sign of poor
sport we know of — there are
results to follow was boxers
cave drawings of fights — but
who used social function
no one has studied it,” said
words in their pre-fight
Warnick. “Every time I speak, the first thing I am asked
comments. These included references to their manager
is what does the other research say. I tell them that in
or coach.
baseball and football it says this and in the individual sports it says this, but in boxing there is no other research. It’s a strange and exciting place to be.”
“At the end of the day, there’s only one person going in the ring,” said Warnick. “Fighters who talked about we, us or the team were referring outwardly, and that is
Through his recent study of pre-fight press
not good. It is ultimately an individual sport.”
conference transcripts, interviews and press releases, Warnick found that there is a relationship between
Warnick intends to maintain boxing as one of his
fighters who use words associated with positive
research areas. He is currently working with fellow
emotions and fighters who win bouts.
Arkansas Tech faculty member Dr. Daniel Bullock on a fighter safety study.
“Psychological preparedness is as important, and sometimes more important, than physical
He hopes that people who are exposed to his
preparedness,” said Warnick, who prepared the study
research connect with boxing as “the sweet science”
with fellow Arkansas Tech faculty member Dr. W. Daniel
and move beyond the negative aspects of the sport
Martin and Tech student Destiny Hughes. “That’s
that have hurt its popularity over the past two decades.
something that is neglected a lot in sports.
“There’s something primal in boxing, and there’s
“When I first saw the results associated with
something in it that appeals to the human condition,”
winning,” continued Warnick, “it did not seem to break
said Warnick. “I hope when people see some of the
that much ground until I thought…what do positive
research we’ve done and will do that they will see it
emotions mean? They suggest immersion. The more
as a beautiful sport to approach. I also hope we can
words that people use that are either strongly positive
make the sport better through science. We can make
or strongly negative suggest that they are more
the officiating better, we can make it more aesthetically
immersed in that experience. So, positive emotions
pleasing and most importantly we can make it safer for
suggest more than just being in a good place mentally.
the participants. Hopefully by making the sport better
They suggest that a fighter is ready.”
we can bring more people to it.”
Summer 2011
7
Today’s Tech
Student Services gets new leadership A pair of administrators from within the Arkansas Tech University family are taking on new responsibilities.
Nicholson has also held multiple leadership positions with the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE).
Susie Nicholson was named vice president for student services and university relations and Amy Pennington was named dean of students on June 7.
Previous to her tenure at Arkansas Tech, Nicholson was vice president for marketing at First National Bank in Russellville from 1988-98. She began her professional
Both Nicholson and Pennington have worked at Arkansas Tech for more than a decade. Susie Nicholson
career as public relations director for Pilgram and Associates in Russellville from 1986-88.
In their new roles they will provide leadership for
Nicholson is a 1986 graduate of the University of
the Office of Student Services, which oversees student
Arkansas at Fayetteville with a Bachelor of Arts degree
housing, health and wellness, counseling services, public
in journalism. She added a Master of Science degree in
safety and parking, student activities, student success
college student personnel from Arkansas Tech in 2010,
services, career services, the disability and testing center,
and she graduated from Leadership Arkansas Class V.
intramural and recreational sports, Greek life, judicial
programs and student government.
Pennington moves to the Office of Student Services after serving Tech for the past eight years as its director of
“The Office of Student Services is absolutely vital to
Amy Hurt Pennington
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Tech Action
international and multicultural student services.
our institution,” said Arkansas Tech President Dr. Robert
C. Brown. “Student success is our No. 1 mission, and the
Her work in that realm has led to an international
work performed by our student services professionals
student enrollment at Arkansas Tech of more than 300
plays an integral role in helping our students persist
students representing more than 30 nations.
to graduation. Mrs. Nicholson and Mrs. Pennington
are imminently qualified to do this kind of work. I have
Pennington began her career at Arkansas Tech as a
complete confidence in both of them.”
student recruitment and publicity specialist in the Office of Admissions from 1997-2000. She was later employed as
Nicholson has served Arkansas Tech as assistant to the president for university relations since 1998.
director of housing programs in the Office of Residential Life from 2000-03.
She has led numerous marketing and public relations
A 1997 graduate of Arkansas Tech with a Bachelor of
initiatives that have reshaped the university’s image and
Science degree in biology, Pennington earned a Master of
helped it become one of the South’s fastest growing
Education degree in higher education administration from
institutions of higher learning.
the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville in 2003.
Robertson succeeds Cohoon as dean Dr. Jeff Robertson assumed leadership of the Arkansas Tech College of Natural and Health Sciences on July 1.
A 14-year veteran of the Arkansas Tech faculty, Robertson had served Tech as head of the Department
of Physical Sciences since 2005. He was promoted to
In his new role, Robertson will have oversight of the
professor in 2008.
biological sciences, mathematics, nursing and physical
sciences departments at Arkansas Tech.
Robertson completed his undergraduate education at
the University of Kansas with a double degree in physics
Robertson succeeds Dr. Richard Cohoon as dean of the
and astronomy.
college. Cohoon, a member of the Arkansas Tech faculty since 1960 and the longest-serving faculty member in the
He attained a Master of Science degree in astronomy
history of the institution, requested a return to full-time
from San Diego State University in 1991 and a Ph.D. in
teaching responsibilities as of July 1.
astrophysics from Indiana University in 1995.
Today’s Tech
Anderson chosen to direct Band of Distinction Christopher M. Anderson, formerly of Texas Tech
Anderson succeeds Hal Cooper, who announced
University, has been hired as the fourth director
his retirement in April following 32 years as director of
of bands in the 102-year history of Arkansas Tech
bands at Arkansas Tech. Marvin Williamson (1913-50),
University.
Gene Witherspoon (1950-79) and Cooper (1979-2011)
are the only three directors of bands that Arkansas Tech
Anderson was previously associate director of
has known.
bands, director of athletics bands and associate
professor of music at Texas Tech. He had served as
Anderson graduated from Abilene Christian
director of the “Goin’ Band from Raiderland” marching
University with a Bachelor of Music Education degree.
band at Texas Tech since 2003.
He received a Master of Music degree in conducting
from Northwestern University and is in the final stages
In his new role Anderson will direct the Arkansas
of earning a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the
Tech Marching Band, which has been known for generations as “Arkansas’ Band of Distinction.” He will
University of Texas.
also direct the Arkansas Tech Symphonic Band and
Prior to his work at Texas Tech, Anderson taught
the Arkansas Tech Concert Band while serving as an
music and directed bands around the Lone Star State
associate professor in the Arkansas Tech Department
at Stephen F. Austin University, Abilene Christian
of Music.
University and Keller High School.
Summer 2011
9
Today’s Tech
HONORING OUR BEST Three earn faculty awards Dr. Scott Kirkconnell, Dr. Carey Roberts and Dr. Tim Smith earned the 2011 Arkansas Tech Faculty Awards of Excellence for their contributions to the campus community during the 2010-11 academic year. Kirkconnell was presented with the Faculty Award of Excellence in the teaching category. A professor of biology,
Dr. Scott Kirkconnell
Kirkconnell has served on the Tech faculty since 1981. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Illinois as well as a Master of Arts degree and a Ph.D. from Indiana University. Kirkconnell is a past president of the Arkansas Academy of Science. He also holds membership in the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the American Society for Microbiology.
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Roberts earned the Faculty Award of Excellence in the service Tech Action
category. He has been a member of the Arkansas Tech faculty since 2000 and is an associate professor of history. He attained a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Southern Mississippi. Roberts went on to receive his Master of Arts degree and Ph.D. from the University of South Carolina. In addition to his teaching duties, Roberts also serves Arkansas Tech as its coordinator of university assessment.
Dr. Carey Roberts
Smith won the Faculty Award of Excellence in the scholarship/creative activity category. He is a 13-year veteran of the Arkansas Tech faculty and an associate professor of music. Smith completed his Bachelor of Music degree at St. Olaf College. He attained a Master of Music degree and a Ph.D. from Indiana University. The 2011 Arkansas State Music Teachers Association teacher of the year, Smith collaborated with trombonist Will Kimball on an album entitled “Collage” on the Tantara label. Smith has also served as the official pianist for the D’Angelo Competition in Strings at Mercyhurst College. The Arkansas Tech Faculty Awards of Excellence were created in 1996. Nominees must be tenured and hold the current rank of associate professor or professor. Dr. Tim Smith
Today’s Tech
Keeping the Tech Family Safe Campus security continued point of emphasis Arkansas Tech University will make a significant investment in upgrading security measures on its main campus in Russellville following action by the Tech Board of Trustees on Thursday, June 16. Trustees approved a transfer of $681,838 from the unappropriated educational and general fund balance to cover costs associated with a three-phase plan that will be fully implemented by May 15, 2012. The plan was drafted by a campus security task force that was established by Arkansas Tech President Dr. Robert C. Brown on April 25. Under the leadership of Senior Vice President for Administration and Finance David Moseley, the task force was charged with developing plans to establish additional security features on campus. Task force members walked the campus at night to assess needs and reviewed existing safety measures. “Arkansas Tech University takes its responsibility to provide for the safety of our students, faculty and staff very seriously,” said Susie Nicholson, vice president for student services and university relations. “The safety of our campus community is our No. 1 priority. Our track record in that area is good, but there is always room for improvement. We believe that the security measures already in place combined with the enhancements that we are currently implementing will forward our long-held reputation as a safe place to study and work.” Phase I of the campus security improvements will
Phase III of the campus security improvements will take place from Aug. 1, 2011, through May 15, 2012, and will include the addition of any needed personnel Safety and a safety awareness campaign for students and employees.
Photographed, Above: Members of the
“If we can stress two points to our students, faculty and staff concerning safety on campus, they would be walk with a friend and utilize the services offered by our Office of Public Safety,” said Nicholson. “There is always safety in numbers, and especially late at night we encourage our students to take the extra precaution of walking with a friend. “The phone number for our Office of Public Safety is (479) 968-0222, and we hope that all of our students,
access to classroom buildings, additional security
faculty and staff will save that number in their mobile
cameras and the installation of emergency call stations
devices so that they can have it should they ever need
on the Arkansas Tech campus in Russellville by Oct. 31,
assistance from our dedicated and trained officers,”
2011.
continued Nicholson. “We have offered a public safety
escort service on our campus for 15 years, and we
Phase II consists of identifying any areas of high
want our students, faculty and staff to know that
risk on campus and improving visibility around shrubs
service is available for their protection and peace of
in designated areas.
mind.”
the fall 2011 semester in August.
11
and equipment for the Arkansas Tech Office of Public
result in additional campus lighting, electronic door
Those improvements were in place by the start of
Summer 2011
For more information about security at Tech, visit: www.atu.edu/psafe
Arkansas Tech Office of Public Safety have access to security cameras around campus 24 hours per day.
Alumni News
Croom, Peer join Arkansas Omicron HOF Arkansas Tech University graduates Mike Croom
Peer completed his undergraduate degree at
and Richard Peer are the latest inductees into the Phi
Arkansas Tech in 1963. He began a four-decade career
Beta Mu Arkansas Omicron Chapter Hall of Fame in
in music education by serving at Atkins High School
recognition of their careers in music education.
and Paris High School. His westward travels led him to Fort Smith in 1964, and he remained there for the next
Croom is a 1969 graduate of Arkansas Tech. He
38 years.
is retired from full-time teaching following a 35-year career in the public schools, but he continues as a private instructor.
After directing the band at Kimmons Junior High School from 1964-77, Peer was promoted to assistant band director and clarinet instructor at Southside High
Mike Croom
A past president of the Arkansas School Band and
School. He remained in that role from 1977-93, at
Orchestra Association (ASBOA), Croom was Arkansas
which point he assumed the duties of band director at
Bandmaster of the Year in 1998. He directed the
Southside High. He retired from that post in 2002.
Northeast High School Band from North Little Rock that was invited to perform at the 1983 American School Band Directors Association national convention in Hot
and he was a three-term ASBOA president. More than
Springs.
120 of his clarinet students earned all-state honors.
In addition to his time at Northeast High School
Richard Peer
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Peer was Arkansas Bandmaster of the Year in 1989
Croom and Peer join former staff members Gene
from 1974-88, Croom also served as band director
Witherspoon and Homer Brown as well as alumni
at Lakewood Junior High School in North Little Rock
H.L. Shepherd, Russell Langston, Pat Ellison, William
(1969-74) and Northside High School in Fort Smith
Shaver and Leighnora Buchanan as individuals in the
(1988-2004).
Arkansas Omicron Hall of Fame with Arkansas Tech ties.
Tech Action
Dunn takes command of 85th USARSC Arkansas Tech University alumnus Gracus K. Dunn
Dunn’s awards and decorations include the Defense
is the new commanding officer for the 85th U.S.
Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Defense
Army Reserve Support Command (USARSC) based in
Meritorious Service Medal, Army Meritorious Service
Arlington Heights, Ill.
Medal, Joint Service Commendation and Achievement Medals, Army Commendation and Achievement
A 1982 graduate of Arkansas Tech with a Bachelor of
Medals, Air Force Achievement Medal, Southwest Asia
Arts degree in music, Brigadier General Dunn has served
Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary and Service
the United States abroad in Somalia, Panama, Egypt,
Medals, Korean National Defense Medal, Global War
Honduras, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Kuwait. He has also
on Terrorism Service Medal, NATO Medal, the Joint
been stationed in Germany and he has commanded
Meritorious Unit Award and the Joint Chiefs of Staff and
U.S. troops in both the United States and Korea.
Army Staff Badges.
Trusty selected state’s top music teacher Arkansas Tech alumnus Joe Trusty, director of
He graduated from Arkansas Tech in 1981 with a
bands at Cabot High School, is the 2010-11 National
bachelor’s degree in music education before beginning
Federation of High Schools Outstanding Music
his career at Prairie Grove Junior High School.
Educator for the state of Arkansas. The NFHS Outstanding Music Educator award was Trusty has served the Cabot School District as a
the second big honor of the 2010-11 school year for
music educator since 1983 and as band director since
Trusty. He was named Arkansas Bandmaster of the Year
1986.
during a conference in July 2010.
Alumni News
Dozens enjoy first Tech Alumni Day at LR Zoo Approximately 50 Arkansas Tech University alumni and friends participated in 2011 Tech Alumni Day at the Little Rock Zoo on Saturday, May 21. Those attending the event enjoyed a picnic lunch, visited the wide variety of exhibits on the zoo grounds and then witnessed a presentation by zoo staffers that featured birds, reptiles and mammals from around the world. For more information about upcoming events hosted by the Arkansas Tech Alumni Association, call (479) 968-0242 or
Lyndsey Cochran, Michelle Justice, Courtney Farris
send e-mail to alumni@atu.edu.
Brandi Easterling Collins, Jim Murphy, Dr. Mary Ann Rollans and Family
Valli Wanzer, Carol Swindell
Drew Collins
Blayden Russo
Arkansas Tech alumni from North Texas gather More than two dozen Arkansas
Those in attendance also
Tech alumni and friends from
discussed forming an Arkansas Tech
the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex
Alumni Association chapter for
gathered at Pappasito’s Cantina in
residents of North Texas.
Arlington on Friday, July 15.
Summer 2011
13
Photographed, Left:
“Our Dallas gathering was a The Tech alumni and friends were
successful event with several loyal
hosted by Arkansas Tech President
and interested Arkansas Tech
Dr. Robert C. Brown, First Lady Jill
alumni on hand,” said Davis. “It is
Brown, Vice President for Development Jayne Jones,
always enjoyable to spend an evening with people
Director of Alumni Relations Kelly Davis and Coordinator
who have a shared interest in the continued success
of Alumni Communications and Activities Kelly Bostick.
of Arkansas Tech. I believe that with the enthusiastic local leadership in the Dallas area and support from our
Brown updated alumni and friends on construction, enrollment growth and increases in academic programs.
alumni office, we can connect with more Tech alumni in that region.”
Calling all Tech ROTC alumni The Arkansas Tech University ROTC program encourages all Tech ROTC alumni to go online and update their contact information. Lt. Col. Vixen James, who oversees the ROTC program at Arkansas Tech, is seeking to update his ROTC alumni mailing list in order to better communicate with past members of the program. Visit www.techties.atu.edu/rotc to update contact information. Call (479) 498-6066 to learn more.
Arkansas Tech alumni Rick Rice and Pamela Tolliver Rice proudly display their ID cards from their days as students at Tech during the July 15 alumni event in Arlington.
Alumni News
Howard Ritchie, David Rollans, Don Gifford, John Whiteside
14
Tech Action
View from the Wendy’s Home Plate Party Deck
TECH NIGHT WITH
Kelly Davis, Tommy Hensen, Tommie Hensen Jeff Ward, Blake Ward
Arvest Ballpark Springdale June 16, 2011
Alumni News
TECH NIGHT WITH
LeMoyne Smith, Katherine Bowden, Arnold Bowden
Dickey-Stephens Park North Little Rock June 24, 2011
Summer 2011
15
Paul Burris, Regina Martin Burris
Greg Crouch, Jana Parker, Dana Crouch, Mark Crouch Nathaniel Schwartz, Niki Cruse Schwartz, Courtney Farris, Caleb Pratt David Dodd, Shirley Drewry Dodd
Alumni News
Alumni Association gives 11 scholarships
Nate Bartlett
Katelyn Barton
T.J. Branham
16
Tech Action
Tamara Bull
Tyler Dodd
Dylan Erwin
Eleven members of the Arkansas Tech University freshman class of 2011 have received an Arkansas Tech Alumni Association Scholarship through the Arkansas Tech Foundation. This year’s recipients are: Nathaniel Reid Bartlett of Heber Springs, Katelyn Rose Barton of Greenwood, Timothy James Branham of Booneville, Tamara Dawn Bull of Greenwood, Daniel Tyler Dodd of Russellville, Dylan Thomas Erwin of Springfield, Jordan Rae Garcia of Van Buren, Tyler Joseph Reese of Heber Springs, Elizabeth Ann White of Ozark, Charles A. Wilbers of Clinton and Jordon Alan Zimmerman of Hattieville. Nate Bartlett A three-sport athlete (baseball, golf and tennis) during his days at Heber Springs High School, Nate Bartlett is enrolling at Arkansas Tech with a plan to become a mechanical engineer. “I am looking forward to my college years to provide me with an education that prepares me for a successful career, an environment that fosters maturity and growth and an overall experience that makes me a well-rounded person ready to achieve my goals,” said Bartlett. Rita and Landen Watkins of Heber Springs are Bartlett’s parents. Landen graduated from Arkansas Tech in 1993 with a Bachelor of Science degree in recreation and parks administration. Katelyn Barton With 17 family members who either graduated from Arkansas Tech or are currently attending Tech, Katelyn Barton is about as green and gold as it gets.
“My family has a great tradition of attending, graduating and being successful in their chosen profession all because of the training they received at Arkansas Tech,” said Barton, a former student council president at Greenwood High School. “I have learned that the more you put into something the more you will get out. I plan on making an impact.” Both of Barton’s parents — Jonna and Lance Barton of Greenwood — graduated from Arkansas Tech with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. Lance completed his degree in 1989, and Jonna earned hers one year later. T.J. Branham T.J. Branham has seen America — places as diverse as Wyoming, Georgia and Illinois — through missionary trips in recent years. But when it came time to choose a college, he wanted something closer to home. “Arkansas Tech University is a place where I believe I can gain a great education to ensure a successful future,” said Branham, who served as senior class vice president and as a member of the football, basketball and baseball teams at Booneville High School. “Aside from the fact that Arkansas Tech is one of the top-rated colleges in Arkansas, its beautiful campus is close to home and filled with many opportunities for extracurricular activities.” Branham’s parents are Diana and James Branham of Booneville. Diana graduated from Arkansas Tech in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science degree in business education. Tamara Bull Tamara Bull selected Arkansas Tech-Ozark Campus because she was interested in studying a specific and emerging field in healthcare.
“Arkansas Tech University-Ozark Campus is definitely my top choice of college because of my interest in the physical therapy assistant program,” said Bull, who was an all-state bowler at Greenwood High School. “I have heard numerous times that they have one of the state’s finest programs. It is also a smaller school. There will be more one-on-one time with the teacher and myself.” Tammy and Don Bull of Greenwood are Tamara’s parents. Don attended Tech from 1980-83. Tyler Dodd Tyler Dodd has one eye on an electrical engineering degree from Arkansas Tech and one eye on the stars. “My goal is to have an engineering career in the field of robotics with NASA because I wish to help make space exploration possible,” said Dodd, a member of the National Honor Society. “I learned at Timeout for Tech that Tech students in engineering can apply for summer internships at NASA. An internship would be one giant leap in my pursuit of a career in electrical engineering with NASA.” Both of Dodd’s parents — Rona Emery Dodd and David Dodd Jr. of Russellville — hold multiple degrees from Arkansas Tech. Rona holds business and nursing degrees from Tech, while David attained degrees in computer science and engineering. Dylan Erwin With roots that date back to his grandfather Jimmie Franklin’s enrollment at Arkansas Tech in 1946, Dylan Erwin will arrive on the Russellville campus this fall positive that he made the right choice for his college education.
Alumni News
“I have many extended family members and friends who have attended Tech and have graduated well prepared for their chosen profession,” said Erwin, who served as team captain for the Morrilton High School football team and will study history at Arkansas Tech. “The campus is beautiful and very welcoming. I feel I will receive the best possible post-secondary education from Arkansas Tech and know that many doors will open because of the preparation I receive there.” Regina Erwin and the late Ronnie Erwin are Erwin’s parents. Regina earned a Master of Education degree from Arkansas Tech in 1997. Jordan Garcia Jordan Garcia’s childhood memories are filled with images of yearbook workshops at Witherspoon Hall and Saturday afternoons at Thone Stadium at Buerkle Field cheering on the Wonder Boys. Now, her college memories will be made on those same grounds at Arkansas Tech. “Although I live in Van Buren, I have grown up around the Tech campus,” said Garcia, who served as secretary for the student senate at Van Buren High School. “I am confident that Tech’s history program and the opportunities for student government activities will only enhance my academic future. I look forward to developing lifelong relationships at college.” Ginger Oliver Garcia and Phillip Garcia of Van Buren, Jordan’s parents, both graduated from Arkansas Tech. Ginger completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism in 1985. Phillip earned a Bachelor of Science degree in hotel and restaurant management in 1983.
Tyler Reese Oral McElroy was the starting left guard on the legendary 1920 Arkansas Tech football team that first earned the nickname Wonder Boys. Ninety-one years later, his great-grandson Tyler Reese is ready to become a Wonder Boy. “Arkansas Tech is my university of choice because it is a family school for me,” said Reese, who earned four letters as a member of the baseball team and was senior class treasurer at Heber Springs High School. “My career plans are to go into secondary education in the field of social studies and also to coach high school baseball. I want to be a positive role model and influence through teaching and coaching.” Reese’s parents — Sara Duvall Reese and Brad A. Reese — are both 1989 graduates of Arkansas Tech. Sara obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in hospitality administration, while Brad earned a Bachelor of Science degree in health and physical education. Beth Ann White Arkansas Tech’s institutional heritage is that of an agricultural school. Beth Ann White served as president, vice president and parliamentarian for the Future Farmers of America at Ozark High School. Sounds like a perfect fit. “With a degree in agriculture business, I will be setting myself up for a great job with many companies,” said White, who was also Beta Club secretary in high school. “Ozark is only 45 minutes from Russellville, which will be perfect for spontaneous visits home. I cannot wait to make lifelong friends among my peers at Arkansas Tech.”
White’s parents are Lori Troglin White and Tom White of Ozark. Lori earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from Arkansas Tech in 1988. Tom attended Tech from 1982-87. Charles Wilbers Time has shown that high school students who visit the Arkansas Tech campus become far more likely to choose Tech for their college experience. Charles Wilbers is proof positive of that theory. “My first college tour was at Arkansas Tech,” said Wilbers, who was senior class president at Clinton High School. “They welcomed me as if I were family. Later on through high school I visited other colleges in the state, but nothing compared to Tech.” Adrianne and Russell Wilbers of Clinton are Wilbers’ parents. Russell attended Tech from 1978-80. Jordon Zimmerman Like many young people, Jordon Zimmerman understands that he is about to enter a changing world. His plans to find a place in that changing world include a degree from Arkansas Tech. “In this time of financial uncertainty, it is important to set goals and educate oneself to be competitive in the marketplace,” said Zimmerman. “Seeing how Arkansas Tech University prepared my father for his career, I know that Arkansas Tech can prepare me just as well for mine.” Zimmerman’s parents are Donna and Michael Zimmerman of Hattieville. Michael earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in graphic arts from Arkansas Tech in 1990.
Jordan Garcia
Tyler Reese
Beth Ann White Summer 2011
Charles Wilbers
Jordon Zimmerman
17
Development Corner
Faculty, staff give to Tech at record level The people who carry out the mission of Arkansas Tech University on a daily basis are giving back to the institution like never before.
FACULTY AND STAFF GIVING TO ARKANSAS TECH 40%
Faculty and staff giving to the Arkansas Tech Foundation increased from 16 percent in 2009-10 to 31 percent in 2010-11. A total of 231 faculty and staff members gave to the Tech Loyalty Fund in 2010-11. For more information about how you can give to the Tech Loyalty Fund, call (479) 968-0405 or visit:
30%
20%
10%
0% 2009-10 Fiscal Year
www.atu.edu/givetotech
2010-11 Fiscal Year
Tech travel group plans cruise in 2012 Arkansas Tech alumni and friends will take to the high seas for the Baltic Treasures luxury cruise next year.
As for trips still remaining in 2011, the Tech Alumni and Friends Travel Group will spend a fall day in the Ozarks in October and take a Christmas tour of Natchitoches, La., in
The Tech Tourists will visit such destinations as
December.
Copenhagen, Berlin, St. Petersburg, Helsinki and Stockholm during a trip that will last from June 8-19, 2012. Oceania
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Looking ahead to next year, the Tech Tourists will make
Cruises will take participants on their tour of eastern
a visit to Costa Rica in February 2012, enjoy a journey
Europe.
through eastern Canada in August 2012 and experience the holidays in New York in November and December 2012.
Tech Action
“This is an exceptional cruise on an extraordinary vessel with a popular itinerary, so you are encouraged to sign up now for the best choice of stateroom or suite,” said Dana Moseley, director of gift planning at Arkansas Tech.
More information about travel opportunities through Arkansas Tech is available at: www.atu.edu/givetotech/giftplanning-travel.shtml
IN MEMORY/HONOR OF (May 1, 2011 through June 30, 2011) The following individuals made gifts to Tech in memory or in honor of a friend or loved one In Memory of B.J. Burton Gary Burton Kelli Burton In Honor of Richard Cohoon Stephen Cook In Memory of Joyce Dempsey Van and Ginnie Tyson In Memory of Coach Dave Falconer James and Sharon Benson In Memory of Doug Foreman Royann Foreman In Memory of Marion Ray Harmon David and Dana Moseley In Honor of W.R. “Bud” and Joan Harper David and Dana Moseley
In Memory of Savannah Hintze William and Amber Casey Paul and Elizabeth Gray Jo Luck Robert and Beverly Moore Courtney Nosari Mary Dee Taylor
In Memory of John Rankin David and Dana Moseley In Memory of A.N. Satterfield Guila Grace Turner In Memory of Christina Stinnett Judy Murphy
In Memory of Dr. Kenneth Kersh Travis and Lou Adams Bruce and Ann Webb
In Memory of Helen Sweeden Toni Bachman
In Memory of Dewey T. Lewis Mariel Lewis
In Memory of Justin Welch Belinda Welch
In Honor of Lloyd McDaniel David and Dana Moseley
In Honor of Dean and Kathy Wilburn David and Dana Moseley
In Memory of Dr. Harlan McMillan James and Norma Willcutt
Development Corner
Cogburn honored for gifts to engineering In many ways, Dr. Cecil O. Cogburn of Fayetteville is the father of nuclear engineering education in the state of Arkansas. Cogburn’s influence is felt every day at Arkansas Tech when his former students, now engineering faculty members at Tech, pass on their acquired knowledge to the next generation of engineers. And now, Cogburn and his influence on engineering education will be forever remembered at Arkansas Tech. The recently completed engineering addition at Corley Hall on the Arkansas Tech campus in Russellville has been named in honor of Cogburn in recognition of his financial gifts to the university and his lifelong commitment to higher education. “(Cogburn) influenced several generations of his students to become engineers and engineering teachers,” said Stan Apple, instructor in mechanical engineering at Tech and a former Cogburn student.
Of equal importance are the teachers who followed
“He led by example. He wouldn’t ask someone to do
in Cogburn’s footsteps. In addition to Apple, Dr.
something he wasn’t willing to do himself.”
John Krohn and Dr. Roy Culp are among the Cogburn
mentees who have served on the mechanical
Cogburn taught engineering at the University of
engineering faculty at Arkansas Tech.
Arkansas in Fayetteville from 1947-89. The recipient of a National Science Foundation fellowship, Cogburn earned his Ph.D. from the University of London in 1970.
Summer 2011
19
Photographed, Above:
Krohn is a professor of mechanical engineering and serves as department head for that discipline at
(From Left) Dr. John Krohn, Dana Moseley from the Office of Development,
Arkansas Tech. Culp retired from Arkansas Tech in 2010
Among Cogburn’s most lasting contributions to
as a professor of mechanical engineering following a
Culp stand outside the
35-year career with the university.
addition to Corley Hall
higher education in Arkansas was his introduction of nuclear engineering courses at the University of
Arkansas in the mid-1960s.
Arkansas Tech is one of only two universities in
the state to offer accredited degree programs in both
Decades later, he ensured that future generations
electrical and mechanical engineering.
would have an opportunity to further that field of study
when his financial gifts helped Arkansas Tech develop a
For more information about the study of engineering
Master of Science degree in nuclear engineering.
at Arkansas Tech, visit www.atu.edu/engineering.
Fisher joins Tech Development staff Bryan Fisher is the new director of athletic relations at Arkansas Tech University.
A product of Russellville High School, Fisher earned four letters as a member of the Arkansas Tech football team from 1995-98.
Fisher joined the Office of Development staff in July. In his new role, he will connect with members of the
He graduated from Tech with a Bachelor of Science
business community and endeavor to gain financial
degree in natural science in 1999. Fisher previously
support for athletic programs at Tech.
worked in the insurance industry.
Stan Apple and Dr. Roy
named for Dr. Cecil O. Cogburn.
Development Corner
Krueger Lecture Series debuts this fall The Arkansas Tech College of Arts and Humanities will
Krueger taught history at Tech from 1960-2010 and
host the inaugural David W. Krueger Lecture in honor of
retired at the rank of associate professor. He and Dr.
the long-time faculty member this fall.
Richard Cohoon, professor of geology and a member of the Tech faculty from 1960 to the present, are the only
Dr. Felipe Fernandez-Armesto, the William P. Reynolds Professor of History at the University of Notre Dame, will
individuals to give 50 or more years of service on the Arkansas Tech faculty.
be the first speaker in what is scheduled to be an annual event.
The David W. Krueger Lecture series is possible because of the generosity of an anonymous donor to the
David Krueger
The lecture will take place at the Doc Bryan Student
College of Arts and Humanities through the Arkansas Tech
Services Building Lecture Hall on Wednesday, Oct. 19, at
Foundation. For more information about the lecture, call
6 p.m. The lecture will be free and open to the public.
(479) 968-0274.
Hall of Distinction nominations due Oct. 1 To be considered for the Hall of Distinction in 2012,
Individuals may be nominated in any of five
nominations must be delivered or mailed to the Arkansas
categories: Distinguished Alumnus/Alumna; Distinguished
Tech Alumni Office by Oct. 1, 2011.
Service Award; Distinguished Young Alumnus/Alumna; Distinguished Alumni Service; and Distinction in
The Hall of Distinction recognizes genuine
Intercollegiate Athletics.
accomplishment by persons closely associated with the university, cultivates individuals for the purpose of
20
Tech Action
Please contact the Arkansas Tech Alumni Office at
enhanced service and fundraising and enhances the
(479) 968-0242 or alumni@atu.edu for an information
reputation of the university.
packet and nomination form.
Class Notes Marriages Ronald C. Cains (JOUR ’83) and Dianne A. Murphy were married on May 7, 2011. Ronald is retired from the U.S. Army after 24 years of service. They live in Altus. Chad Johnston (EAM ’02) and Kari Delane Kulaas were married on April 16, 2011. They live in Denton, Texas. Bradley Thomas Stewart (AGBU ’05) and Sarah Melissa Melton (MGMT/MKTG ’06 & PTA ’11) were married on Aug. 14, 2010. They live in Russellville. Jayme Smith (HEPE ’06) and Erin Burnett were married on Feb. 9, 2011. Adrienne Davis (HIST EDU ’08) and Christopher Holland (HIM ’08) were married on June 27, 2010. Melissa Cates (ECED ’10) and Warren Bretz were married on May 28, 2011. They live in Junction City, Kan. Charles Christianson (BPS-ECED ’10) and Kristen Bowen (ALUM) were married on May 7, 2011. Ashley Roberts (AGBU ’10) and Travis Cloud were married on Nov. 20, 2010. They live in Decatur. Cari Thompson (ECED ’10) and Jeremy Curtis were married on July 16, 2011. Cari teaches kindergarten for the Atkins School District. They live in Atkins.
Births Paul Lowrey (GEOL ’86) and his wife, Jennifer, a son, Hiatt Westlake, June 19, 2011. Hiatt has one brother, Pike (2). They live in Fayetteville. Dr. Raymond Klein Molden (BIOL ’96) and Kimberly Eloise Molden (REHAB SCI ’99), a son, Nathan Andrew, July 12, 2011. They live in Little Rock. Patrick Strong (SPH/THTR ’97) and his wife, Natalie, a daughter, Margot Janelle, April 14, 2011. Margot has a brother, Elliott (2). Patrick is a music licensing coordinator for Universal Pictures. They live in El Segundo, Calif. Jamie Teal (ENGL ’99) and her husband, Wajih Syed, a son, Yahya Unis, June 12, 2011. Yahya has four siblings: Aspen (14), Abdurrahman (9), Zainab (6) and Saleh (4). They live in Taif, Saudi Arabia.
Laura Williams Haberstroh (HEPE ’00 & M.Ed. PE ’07) and her husband, Douglas, a son, Dathan Eli, Jan. 8, 2011. Shane Savoie (BUED ’00) and Cristy Nutt Savoie (ECED ’03), a daughter, Ella Marie, May 20, 2011. Ella has a brother, Elijah (6), and a sister, Emma (4). Adam Coats (MUED ’02 & M.Ed. ITED ’06) and April Fisher Coats (HIST ’02 & M.Ed. ITED ’04), a son, Cole Thomas, June 25, 2011. Brandy Rachelle Hopkins (BIOL ’02) and her husband, Nathan, a daughter, Lilly Kate, Feb. 21, 2011. Clint Kordsmeier (ECON ’03) and Joanna Pyle Kordsmeier (MGMT/MKTG ’07), a son, Jaxon David, April 12, 2011. They live in Conway. Tara Hawkins Dorminy (PSY ’04) and Michael Dorminy (MGMT/MKTG ’05), a daughter, Hadley Grace, April 29, 2011. Jessica Pipkins (MATH ’04) and Matthew Pipkins (AGBU ’04 & GT/CIS ’11), a son, Kamden James, July 5, 2011. Kamden has one sister, Olivia (2). They live in Hartman. Ashley Trice Garman (MED ASST ’05) and her husband, Dorahn, a son, Kendol Dorahn, June 22, 2011. They live in Benton. Erin Essink Scheffert (ECED ’05) and her husband, Michael, a son, James Lucas, Oct. 12, 2010. Brittany Jarnagan Jones (MUED ’06) and her husband, Chase, a daughter, Madison Ann, Feb. 11, 2011. Lauren Shelton (MUED & BIOL ’06) and her husband, Scott, a son, Caden Nathanael, June 2, 2011. Caden has two brothers: Caleb (4) and Carter (2). Amanda Jasmin Tinder Minor (MUED ’07) and Richard Dwain Minor (MUS ’08), a son, Richard Haddon, June 29, 2011. Kara Perry Blackwell (ECON ’08) and James “Roper” Blackwell (AGBU ’09), a son, Jayden Roper, May 29, 2011. They live in Mountain View. Jeana Phillips Parker (BIOL ‘08) and her husband, Christopher, a son, Noel Christopher, July 23, 2011.
Summer 2011
21
Class Notes Jessica Gambill Griffin (ECED ’09) and her husband, Sam, a son, Charlie, Feb. 1, 2011. Kristen Bethee Weatherall (ECED ’10) and her husband, Jon, a son, Braden James, July 11, 2011. They live in Dardanelle.
1940s A.W. Callan (ENGR ’40) is retired from a career as an associate professor at Auburn University. A.W. also gave 26 years of service to the U.S. Navy and retired at the rank of captain. Wanda Witherspoon Phillips (EDU ’47) is retired and living in Clarksville. She taught for 34 years — three in Atkins, five in Hughes and 26 in Clarksville — before retiring in 1987.
Gregg Grant (HEPE ’84, M.Ed. ’00 & Ed.S. ’02) was named director of athletics for the Alma School District.
Deward Dopson (HEPE ’52) and Anne Dopson (’68) celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with a gathering for friends and family on June 25, 2011.
Tech Action
1980s Linda Whittenberg Lininger (MUED ’80) retired from the Austin Independent School District in Texas following a 25-year career as a music therapist for special education. She owns and is clinician for The Right Key Music Therapy, which serves Austin and Hays County, Texas.
1950s
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Charlie Sorrels (HEPE ’76), director of athletics and former head football coach at Atkins High School, received the Curt King Lifetime Achievement Award from the Arkansas High School Coaches Association on June 23, 2011.
Dan McGuire (ENGR ’58) was elected to serve as president for the Plastic Pioneers Association until spring 2013. Dan was the co-founder of General Polymer, a plastics resin distribution company.
1960s Charles H. Pearson (ENGR ’61) and Margaret Freeman Pearson (EDU ’64) celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on May 28, 2011. Charles retired from the Arkansas Tech Department of Mathematics in 2001 following a 37-year career. Margaret retired from Russellville Public Schools in 2001 after teaching for 34 years. Hershel Phillips (EDU ’61) and his wife, Katherine, celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary on June 16, 2011. Martha Hill Tucker (MATH ’67) marked the end of 18 years of volunteer service to the Teen Court program in Irving, Texas, on June 30, 2011.
1970s Joe Hoing (HEPE ’71) was appointed by Gov. Mike Beebe to serve on the 5th Judicial District Criminal Detention Facility Review Committee through Jan. 14, 2012.
Roy Beth Kelley (ENGL ’85) will serve on the legislation committee and the jurisprudence and law reform committee for the Arkansas Bar Association during the 2011-12 term. Jeffrey S. Nufer (ACCT ’86) and his wife, Tina, celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on May 16, 2011. Jeff is employed at Shoptaw, Labahn and Co. in Russellville. They have two children.
1990s Kyle Gilliam (AGBU ’91) completed 27 years of service to the Arkansas National Guard when he retired in March. Kyle is president of Arvest Bank’s equipment finance division in Fort Smith. Chad Harbison (HEPE ’91) was named head football coach at Harrison High School. Tina Besancon Rotenbury (RPA ’91) works as a geographic information systems specialist with the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests. Dr. Stephen D. Adkison (SPH ’92) completed the Doctor of Ministry degree from Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, Calif. He is senior pastor and head of staff for the First Presbyterian Church of Hannibal, Mo., and an adjunct professor at Hannibal LaGrange University. Stephen and his wife, Pamela Fox Adkison (SOC ’91), celebrated their 21st wedding anniversary on May 26, 2011. They have a daughter, Hannah (16), and a son, Stephen Joshua (12). Maj. Jason Duvall (PHYS SCI ’94) was promoted to lieutenant colonel in the Arkansas Army National Guard. He and his wife, Leann Ashcraft Duvall (ACCT ’96), have two children: Jaci Danielle and William Austin.
Class Notes Billy Elmore (HEPE ’94) was named head football coach at Stuttgart High School. Danny Aynes (SPH ’99) was selected as a Fulbright Scholar. He had the opportunity to travel in Germany and study that country’s higher education system. Danny is director of enrollment services at Linn Benton Community College in Oregon. Amber Brady (MGMT/MKTG ’99 & ACCT ’04) was promoted to accounts receivable and collections manager for PAM Transport in Tontitown.
2000s Kenny Simon (AGBU ’00) and his family were named the 2011 Faulkner County Farm Family of the Year. Erin Minahan Brickley (SPH ’01) was named associate registrar at Arkansas Tech-Ozark Campus. Dr. Mary Annette Pugh (BIOL ’01) opened a new general family practice in Miami, Okla., as part of the Integris Baptist Regional Health Center. Roxann Susan Dortch Chakos (HIST ’03) works for AFSCME Local 3930 as charter chair local in Modesto, Calif., and statewide in San Diego, Calif. Dr. Elizabeth Bowles Sharp (HEPE ’04 & M.Ed. PE ’05) completed her Ph.D. in human performance from Middle Tennessee State University in May 2011. She was named the MTSU Health and Human Performance Department graduate teaching assistant of the year in 2010-11. Elizabeth is now an assistant professor of kinesiology at Mesa State College in Grand Junction, Colo. Tonia Stokes (INTL STUDIES ’06) completed the Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Missouri State University in May 2011. She accepted a position with North Arkansas Medical Center in Harrison. Megan Binkley Toland (JOUR ’06 & M.A. JOUR ’08) was hired by the Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce as marketing director. Luke Calcatera (EAM ’07) was hired as head men’s golf coach at Arkansas Tech. Joe Gilgour (M.S. CSP ’07) was promoted to dean of student development at State Fair Community College in Sedalia, Mo. He and his wife, Stephanie, have two children: Grand and Genevieve.
Aubrey Holt (JOUR ’07) was hired as coordinator of student life at Arkansas Tech. Aubrey will work with the spirit squads, student organizations and the alcohol and drug education programs in the Office of Student Services. Brian Ramsey (JOUR ’07) was named assistant commissioner for communications for the Great American Conference. Kyle Shipp (HIST ’07 & M.S. CSP ’09) was hired by Arkansas Tech as an assistant football coach. Kyle will coach wide receivers. Kevy Wijaya (BIOL ’07) earned a Master of Science degree in nursing from Yale University on May 23, 2011. He is a primary care provider at Healthy Future Pediatrics in Olympia, Wash. Clinton Brown (HEPE ’08) and his wife, Kristen Brown (MLED ’10), have opened Carr’s Chain Reaction Cycling and Fitness on West Parkway in Russellville. Courtney Mullen (JOUR/SPH ’08 & M.S. CSP ’11) was named the first director of graduate support services for the Arkansas Tech Graduate College. Shelly Cloos (AAS-BST ’09) was hired as bookstore manager for Arkansas Tech-Ozark Campus. Jeremiah E. Dahl (’09) graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson in Columbia, S.C. Molly Fleming (JOUR ’09) was hired as a reporter at The Daily Citizen newspaper in Searcy.
2010s Mindy Klober (AGBU ’10) accepted a job with the United States Department of Agriculture. Christopher A. Musselman (’10) graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson in Columbia, S.C. Ashley Price (BUED ’10) was hired as the middle school business teacher at Dardanelle Middle School. Christina Keaster Williams (JOUR ’10) was hired as an administrative assistant for the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center regional office located inside Rothwell Hall at Arkansas Tech.
Summer 2011
23
Obituaries
tech
Friends We’ll Miss
Gladys McGee Cornwell (HOME EC ’35) died June 12, 2011. She taught in the school districts at Dardanelle and Russellville for more than 30 years and retired as a librarian for the Dardanelle School District. Gladys lived in Conway. She was 97. Marilyn Gulley Brooks (’43) died April 17, 2011. Marilyn volunteered with the Girl Scouts of America and served as a troop leader in Wichita Falls, Texas. Marilyn lived in Albuquerque, N.M. She was 88. Travis O. Morgan (ENGR ’43) died June 19, 2011. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, Travis was a chemical engineer with Mobil Oil Co. for 36 years. He lived in Tyler, Texas. Travis was 87.
24
Carl “Hoot” Lueken (BUAD ’48) died June 29, 2011. Carl served in World War II as a member of the U.S. Navy. He and his wife, Charlene, owned and operated a restaurant named The In-B-Tween in Helena for 20 years. He left the restaurant business to work for the State of Arkansas Employment Security Division and retired in 1991 as a manager. Carl lived in Helena. He was 84.
Don H. Jackson (ACCT ’64) died July 7, 2011. Don retired from the U.S. Army Reserves at the rank of captain. Don was a Certified Public Accountant, a bank auditor and a textbook author. Don lived in Wylie, Texas. He was 68. Frieda Scheible Fischer (SOC ’70) died July 8, 2011. Frieda was a former case worker and counselor for the blind, and she was a volunteer for Special Olympics. She lived in Monticello. Frieda was 64. Anna Thresher Greve (BUED ’73) died June 29, 2011. Anna was retired from a career as a teacher at Fort Smith Northside High School. She lived in Fort Smith. Anna was 86. Cleta Irene Magness (ELED ’74) died July 10, 2011. She taught in the Hector School District for 27 years, including time as a kindergarten teacher, a third grade teacher and a reading recovery teacher. Cleta lived in Clifty. She was 71. Mary C. “Cathie” Cole (BUAD ’84) died July 3, 2011. Cathie worked at Arkansas Nuclear One for 15 years before retiring in 1988. She lived in Russellville. Cathie was 74.
Tech Action
Emmett Wade (BUAD ’50) died June 3, 2011. Emmett served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. He was employed by the State of Arkansas Employment Security Division in Russellville for more than 40 years. Emmett lived in Russellville. He was 90. James Gray “Jim” Albright (’51) died July 8, 2011. Jim spent one year playing professional baseball for the Arkansas Travelers and went on to coach and teach in the North Little Rock School District. He retired from a position with the Arkansas Department of Education in 1987. Jim lived in North Little Rock. He was 82. Thomas R. Hawkins (‘52) died June 16, 2011. Tom served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He went on to work as a communications engineer with the Arkansas Public Service Commission, Continental Telephone and Bechtel Corporation. Tom lived in Russellville. He was 78. Dewey Tom Lewis Sr. (CHEM ’53) died May 30, 2011. Dewey was a retired U.S. Navy submarine commander. He lived in Virginia Beach, Va. Dewey was 79. Joyce Featherston Merrick (HOME EC ’55) died June 3, 2011. She taught home economics in the school districts at Pottsville and Russellville. Joyce lived in Russellville. She was 75.
Jerry “Kevin” Johnson (HEPE ’88) died June 28, 2011. Kevin was an All-America offensive lineman at Arkansas Tech and a 2008 inductee into the Arkansas Tech Hall of Distinction. He was the defensive coordinator for three state championship football teams and two state runnerup teams at Shiloh Christian High School and Springdale High School. He was head coach at Springdale from 2006-09. Kevin lived in Springdale. He was 46. Laura Jo “Jodie” Pfeifer Deal (PSY ’96) died July 5, 2011. She worked for the past 10 years as a counselor and client advocate. Jodie lived in Dardanelle. She was 38. Tyler Keith Vancuren (WS ’10) died June 25, 2011. He worked at Prairie Market in Harrison with plans to become a physical therapist. Tyler lived in Harrison. He was 22. Dave Falconer (STAFF) died June 11, 2011. Coach Falconer came to Arkansas Tech in 1987 as assistant men’s basketball coach. He remained in that role until 1995, helping the Wonder Boys earn four Arkansas Intercollegiate Conference basketball championships. Coach Falconer was Tech head men’s golf coach from 1989-2011. His golf teams won four AIC titles and one Gulf South Conference title. He also gave 17 years of service as athletics facilities manager at Tech. Dave lived in Russellville. He was 73.
Tech Athletics
A New Era For Tech Athletics Great American Conference debuts this fall Passion. Balance. Resourcefulness. Service. Learning. Sportsmanship. Those are the six defining principles of NCAA Division II athletics, and those ideals led Arkansas Tech and eight other institutions to come together as the charter members of the Great American Conference. The Great American Conference begins competition this fall. All sports are scheduled to compete for a conference title during the 2011-12 academic year and teams will be eligible for NCAA postseason play. The chief executive officers of the nine member institutions announced on Tuesday, July 13, 2010, that they intended to apply to the National Collegiate Athletic Association for permission to create a new NCAA Division II conference. “The intent of the conference is to group together similar institutions in terms of budgets and goals,” said
Charter Members University of Arkansas at Monticello Monticello, Ark.
Ouachita Baptist University Arkadelphia, Ark.
Arkansas Tech University Russellville, Ark.
Southeastern Oklahoma St. University Durant, Okla.
East Central University Ada, Okla.
Southern Arkansas University Magnolia, Ark.
Harding University Searcy, Ark.
Southwestern Oklahoma St. University Weatherford, Okla.
Henderson State University Arkadelphia, Ark.
Will Prewitt will serve as the first commissioner of the Great American Conference.
the presidents, chancellors and directors of athletics from the nine institutions in a joint statement in July
The league has already begun the process to
2010. “Furthermore, the conference is intended to be
expand its membership in the near future. Southern
made up of universities that field an intercollegiate
Nazarene University in Bethany, Okla., and Northwestern
football program. Our most important goals in this new
Oklahoma State University in Alva have been offered
endeavor are to limit time away from class and limit our
invitations to join the GAC in 2012-13 pending their
travel costs.”
approval as NCAA Division II members.
Summer 2011
25
Tech Athletics
From Softball to Sprinkles
Jimeson applies lessons from athletics to new career For the last four years, Shanda Jimeson was known for
All of that quickly changed. Jimeson helped Arkansas
fielding ground balls from her position at second base for
Tech win a school-record 41 games during her freshman
the Arkansas Tech Golden Suns softball team.
season in 2008. The Golden Suns won the Gulf South Conference West Division championship and they
Now, she is fielding orders from customers and building a career from her position as manager with one
advanced all the way to the championship game of the 2008 GSC Softball Tournament.
of America’s best-known and fastest-growing cupcake boutiques.
By the time Jimeson’s Arkansas Tech softball career ended in spring 2011, she had been a part of 139 victories
Jimeson earned an internship with Sprinkles Cupcakes
and three GSC West Division championship teams.
shortly after completing her Bachelor of Science degree in hospitality administration from Arkansas Tech University
Jimeson’s selflessness and commitment to
this spring. Just three months later, she was installed as a
team — and perhaps evidence of why she was so
manager for the Dallas, Texas, location.
quickly promoted with Sprinkles Cupcakes — is best demonstrated by the fact that she recorded the most
No less than Oprah Winfrey has anointed Sprinkles as her favorite cupcake. The business has grown from a
career sacrifice bunts (55) in Arkansas Tech softball history.
single location opened in Beverly Hills in 2005 to include 11 shops around America.
“I’d have to say one of the best qualities I learned as a student-athlete is how to mentally push through
26
“Every kid can’t wait to visit us for a cupcake and every Tech Action
the stressful and long days of being on your feet,” said
adult becomes a kid when they walk through the door,”
Jimeson, who was selected as the most outstanding
said Jimeson. “I’ve never seen so many grown men melt
female senior student-athlete at Tech in 2010-11. “The
into their childhood after stepping up and choosing their
anxiety that the store is on your shoulders can either wear
very own nostalgic flavors. It’s overwhelming for first
you down or make you stand up to the challenge.
timers to see the variety of cupcakes we have every day and even harder to choose just a few from so many. You rarely see anyone just get one cupcake.”
“The skills and knowledge I learned in the hospitality program at Arkansas Tech are the only reason I got a great job right out of college,” continued Jimeson. “You
A product of Mansfield, Texas, Jimeson enrolled at
can’t teach someone how to deal with the unexpected;
Arkansas Tech in fall 2007. The Golden Suns had never
you can only advise them on the many ways to resolve it,
been to postseason softball play, and they were coming
and that’s the best knowledge because it sticks with you
off a 12-35 season the year before her arrival.
forever.”
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
Dopson enshrined in Union County Hall of Fame It’s been six decades since Deward Dopson scored
Dopson ranks ninth in Tech history in career scoring
his last basket for the Arkansas Tech Wonder Boys,
and third in career scoring average (20.9 points per
but the legend of the man known as “Swish” still
game).
reverberates around the state of Arkansas. The greatest night of Dopson’s storied Wonder Boy Dopson’s lasting impact on basketball in his home
career came on Feb. 24, 1950, against Henderson State
state was recalled and rewarded in August when he
University. Dopson dazzled the Reddies with 56 points
was inducted as a member of the inaugural class of the
on 22-of-39 shooting from the floor as Arkansas Tech
Union County Athletics Hall of Fame.
registered an 84-64 victory.
A product of Strong High School, Dopson played
That 56-point effort remains the Tech school record
center on the teams that established head coach Sam
for points in a single game by an individual. It still stood
Hindsman’s basketball dynasty at Arkansas Tech in the
as the AIC record for points in a game when the league
late 1940s and early 1950s.
disbanded 45 years later.
The Wonder Boys compiled an overall record of
Dopson returned to his alma mater as head coach
91-17 and an Arkansas Intercollegiate Conference mark
in 1966. Dopson’s Wonder Boys won 103 games from
of 64-6 during Dopson’s playing career from 1948-52.
1966-73, and his 1969-70 squad reached the NAIA
Arkansas Tech was AIC champion in each of his four
National Tournament. It was Tech’s only national
seasons in the green and gold, the beginning of a string
tournament berth in men’s basketball from 1963-1995.
of seven straight AIC titles for the Wonder Boys. Dopson entered private business after his coaching Standing 6-foot-7, Dopson utilized an unstoppable hook shot to score many of his 1,863 career points.
career. Today, he and his wife of 60 years, Anne, are among Tech’s most generous benefactors.
Summer 2011
I would like to make a donation to the Arkansas Tech Alumni Association Scholarship:
$__________
I would like to make a donation in honor of __________________________________________________:
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Please make checks payable to the Arkansas Tech Foundation and write Alumni Scholarship in the memo field of the check. Donations may be mailed to the Arkansas Tech Foundation, 8820 Tech Lane, Russellville, AR 72801
Name_________________________________________________ Tech major and year ___________________________________ (include maiden name if applicable)
27
Graduated or attended (circle one)
let us hear
Spouse’s Name_______________________________________ Tech major and year ____________________________________ (include maiden name if applicable)
Graduated or attended (circle one)
Mailing address________________________________________ City__________________________ State_____ Zip __________ Telephone____________________________________________ E-mail ________________________________________ Occupation: His________________________________________________ Hers __________________________________________ News: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ mail class notes to Tech Alumni Office, 1313 N. Arkansas Ave., Russellville, AR 72801 or e-mail to alumni@atu.edu.
from you
Tech Action Arkansas Tech University Alumni Association Alumni House 1313 North Arkansas Ave. Russellville, AR 72801 Arkansas Tech University Alumni Association Volume 47 No. 3
•
Homecoming 2011 Registration Form
Name________________________________________Class Year _________Spouse/Guest_______________________________Class Year_________ Address ____________________________________________________City______________________________State______Zip Code____________ Daytime Phone __________________________________ E-Mail Address____________________________________________________________ Please Put an ‘X’ by the reunions you plan on attending during the Homecoming Tailgate from 3-5:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 22: ___ 1971 Wonder Boys Football Team ___ Band ___ College of Business ___ Department of College Student Personnel ___ Department of Parks, Recreation and Hospitality Administration ___ T Club ___ Intramural Sports
Friday, October 21
Saturday, October 22
_____ Homecoming Classic Golf Tournament (3-Person Scramble) Russellville Country Club, $75 per person Name Player 1 _______________________ Does this person have a cart? Y or N Name Player 2 _______________________ Does this person have a cart? Y or N Name Player 3 _______________________ Does this person have a cart? Y or N
_____ Hindsman Players Reunion Breakfast Lake Point Conference Center, $10 per person
_____ Ladies Champagne Bingo Luncheon Lake Point Conference Center, $15 per person
_____ Homecoming Tailgate Buffet $7 per person
_____ All Alumni & Friends Reception Russellville Country Club, $10 per person
_____ Football Game Tickets $10 adults, $5 children and senior citizens
_____ Alumni Gold Luncheon (Class of 1961) Chambers Cafeteria West Dining Hall
See Pages 3-5 For More!
Make checks payable to Arkansas Tech Foundation and mail to: Alumni Office, 1313 N. Arkansas Ave., Russellville, AR 72801; Call (479) 968-0242 for more information.