Alumni Magazine Fall 2019

COLUMBUS STATE The Magazine of Columbus State University for Alumni & Friends

Fall 2019

CSU, THEN AND NOW, PART THREE: UNIVERSITY AVENUE Page 12

ADVISORY BOARDS AND VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Page 16

PROFILES IN ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT Page 18

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FROM THE PRESIDENT

A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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SU is a university that fosters creativity to change lives. We attract students who want to improve their own lives and the lives of their families, communities and the world. In fact, we came into being in 1958 because the Columbus community wanted to change its own future.

We’ve been intertwined ever since, a part of Columbus’ growth from mill town to dynamic uptown. Today, CSU builds the creative workforce and drives the creative economy in Columbus and beyond. We help students build their creative muscles, to see things in new ways, collaborate across disciplines and discover unexpected solutions — whether they’re studying business, technology, science, education, or the arts. Our diverse and inclusive environment expands our students’ worldview and prepares them to make a real difference in the world.

This fall, we are launching our new branding campaign, “Create You.” When we say that CSU is “creative to the core,” we aren’t just repeating a snappy slogan. More than simply a new logo and updated color palette, our brand defines who we are, who we have always been: a Creative University. More importantly, though, our brand is a promise to students — past, present, and future — a promise that Columbus State University will challenge the seekers and the creators to see possibilities from fresh perspectives; to approach problem-solving both critically and creatively; and to make awe-inspiring collaborations that improve their lives and our world in dramatic ways.

The “Create You” brand is built upon four pillars: • Cultivating Creativity, in which we strive to reach new levels of inspiration, discover unexpected connections, and emphasize experimenting, exploring, and questioning in the pursuit of knowledge.

• Inspiring Collaboration, in which town and gown works together to create a seamless community — a “communiversity” — one that forges historic and growing partnerships and fosters the emerging creative economy.

• Reimagining Education, in which we endeavor to experiment in pedagogy and instruct, inspire, and share the most advanced and effective learning methods available.

• Expanding Worlds, in which we establish a diverse learning community, on a global scale, that will improve the standard of living for the world at large.

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Yes, these are lofty goals, but this is one of the most exciting times to be a Cougar. We get to share what truly makes this place special, what sets it apart from other institutions of higher learning.

We have an incredible opportunity to literally create ourselves. The story of Columbus State University is your story. It can’t be told without you. Tell us your story so we can tell the world ours.

So, alumni — let’s get creative. Let’s collaborate. Let’s experiment and inspire. Let’s go global.

I can’t wait to see the future we create.

Chris Markwood President

VOL. 25 NO. 2 • FALL 2019

EDITOR

Josh Becker CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Josh Becker Ana Brubaker CSU Archives CSU Staff Kareem Moore Tamma Smith MAGAZINE LAYOUT & DESIGN

Rowland Publishing, Inc. VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT

Rocky Kettering ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT OF ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT & SPECIAL EVENTS

Jennifer Joyner CHIEF OF STAFF

Ed Helton DIRECTOR OF UNIVERSITY RELATIONS

Greg Hudgison

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ADDRESS CORRESPONDENCE TO:

Columbus State Alumni Magazine Office of University Relations Columbus State University 4225 University Ave. Columbus, GA 31907 ur@columbusstate.edu @COLUMBUSSTATE @CSUCOUGARALUMNI FACEBOOK.COM/COLUMBUSSTATE FACEBOOK.COM/ COLUMBUSSTATEUNIVERSITYALUMNI

FEATURES

IN THIS ISSUE 2 PRESIDENT’S LETTER 5 CAMPUS NEWS 10 CLASS NOTES 11 WHAT’S TRENDING 28 ALUMNI SCENE 30 Q&A: PAUL YARWAYE UPCOMING EVENTS 31

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SU, THEN AND C NOW, PART THREE: UNIVERSITY AVENUE DVISORY BOARDS A AND VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES ROFILES IN ALUMNI P ENGAGEMENT

ON THE COVER Alexis Knox (center) loved her time at CSU so much that she decided to stay as a full-time employee. Read her story on page 22.

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The CSU Fund

The CSU Fund is the cornerstone of philanthropic support at Columbus State University. Gifts through the CSU Fund are critical to the success of our students. When alumni and friends support CSU by giving back, those investments empower CSU to uphold its mission and embrace new opportunities to bolster creativity, innovation, and growth.

To give today, visit Giving.ColumbusState.edu or call the CSU Office of Development at 706.507.8945 4

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CAMPUS NEWS

TWO STUDENTS GRADUATE HIGH SCHOOL WITH CSU ASSOCIATE DEGREES Graduating seniors Julia Bush and Andrew Eagle had the opportunity to walk across two different stages this past May. Bush, of Hardaway High School, and Eagle, of Northside High School, both participated in Columbus State University’s dual enrollment program. In addition to earning their high school diploma, Bush and Eagle graduated from CSU with associate of science degrees.

“I saved a lot of money on college classes,” said Bush. “I’m glad that I got some core classes out of the way before being a traditional college student.”

The Dual Enrollment program allows students to enroll concurrently in high school and college level courses.

With funding available for tuition and a low-cost book rental program, the dual enrollment program is a cost-effective way for high school students to earn college credit before even completing high school. While Bush and Eagle entered the program full-time, other dual enrollment students have the option of enrolling in the program part-time.

“I would definitely encourage other high school students to do it,” said Bush. “I recommend taking a couple of classes at first, just so you get a feel for what college classes are like. It is different in terms of professors expecting you to be more responsible for your work. I definitely like it more than high school, but it is an adjustment.”

Bush, who moved to Columbus and began taking classes at CSU in January 2018, has never attended a single class at Hardaway High School. She came to Columbus with a few college credits from her previous school, and she has since taken 18 credit hours a semester at CSU. She plans to attend Georgia Tech in the fall to study civil engineering, and she says that the dual enrollment will likely allow her to graduate a year earlier.

Eagle, who plans to stay at CSU to pursue a degree in cybersecurity, also says the program should allow him to graduate early. Eagle received his driver’s license just three weeks before his first college class. He hasn’t been in a classroom at Northside in two years, but he has managed to stay in contact with his high school friends and participate in his high school swim team all four years. Eagle attended both his high school and CSU graduations and, like Bush, he agrees that the transition from high school to college is challenging but worth it.

“If you aren’t careful, you’ll get behind,” said Eagle.

“Time is an illusion. You have to study and use your time wisely, or you will not succeed. But I love it here.

Being able to stay at home and be on a great campus has been wonderful.”

EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE STUDENTS, FACULTY COMPLETE ANNUAL ‘MAYMESTER’ FIELD TRIP Seven students and three faculty from Columbus State University’s Earth and Space Science Department embarked upon the department’s annual “Maymester” field trip early this summer. This year’s group explored Texas, New Mexico, and Colorado.

One highlight of the course included the opportunity to safely observe severe thunderstorms in the western Plains, including formation of a small tornado in an evolving supercell thunderstorm in northeastern New Mexico. Students also had the opportunity to meet with CSU alumni who now work in geology and astronomy. CSU professors Dr. Shawn Cruzen, Dr. Clinton Barineau, and Dr. Scott Gunter led the trip.

Since 2011, the Department of Earth and Space Sciences has offered the opportunity for students to learn about astronomy, geology, and meteorology. As part of the field course, students can earn course credit for Area D core or upper level science courses taught through the Department of Earth and Space Sciences. Each year offers new experiences. To date, students in the course have traveled to the Rocky Mountains of New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana; the Appalachian and Adirondack Mountains of Virginia, New York, and the New England states; the Great Lakes and Plains Regions of the central U.S. states; the Colorado Plateau in Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado; and the Pacific Northwest and Cascades Mountains of Washington, Oregon, and northern California.

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CAMPUS NEWS

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CAMPUS NEWS

CSU GOLF COACH RECEIVES ARNOLD PALMER CUP FROM FORMER PRESIDENT Columbus State University Director of Golf Mark Immelman was recently presented with the Arnold Palmer Cup by former President Bill Clinton at the Alotian Club in Roland, Ark. Immelman, who has led CSU’s golf program for 18 years, served as a coach to the International team at the legendary golf event, leading the team to a 33.5-26.5 victory.

“The week at the Arnold Palmer Cup was memorable in so many ways,” said Immelman. “Wearing the Arnold Palmer logo and then leading Team International was a thrill of a lifetime. On top of that, having them pull off the victory was beyond what I could’ve dreamt.

Further, having my family on hand to share in all of the experiences — including meeting President Clinton — made the entire week super special. My time in Little Rock will be etched in my memory for the rest of my days.”

During his tenure at CSU, Immelman has coached 10 All-Americans, 27 All-Peach Belt Conference selections and two PBC Golfers of the Year, including the 2018-19 winner Jordan Doull.

Before taking on the role as coach, Immelman played four seasons as a Cougar, became a three-time All-American, and helped his team win multiple national championships. In 2017, he was inducted into the Columbus State Athletic Hall of Fame.

In addition to his duties at Columbus State, Immelman is the main instructor at Mark Immelman Golf Instruction at the Key Golf Facility, where he works with a plethora of professionals, including Trevor Immelman (younger brother, 2008 Masters Champion), Larry Mize (1998 Masters Champion), Louis Oosthuizen (2010 British Open Champion), and many other PGA, European, Nationwide, and Africa’s Sunshine tours professionals. He also conducts play-by-play on broadcasts for the PGA Tour on Sirius XM PGA Tour Radio and works with CBS Sports as an on-course reporter and studio analyst.

The Arnold Palmer Cup is supported by the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation (AWPF) as part of its mission to promote youth character development, modeling the values embodied by Arnold & Winnie Palmer and supporting the growth of amateur/collegiate golf.

The Arnold Palmer Cup hosts the best U.S. and international collegiate golfers competing on co-ed teams. It is one of the game’s only events in which men and women compete side-by-side as partners.

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CAMPUS NEWS

CSU APPROVED FOR NEW INNOVATIVE DEGREE IN ROBOTICS ENGINEERING The University System of Georgia Board of Regents approved Columbus State University to offer a new bachelor’s of science and master’s of science degrees in robotics engineering beginning in the fall of 2019. This will be a first for CSU as the university continues to prepare the technology workforce for our region.

“This is a game changer for our university, our community, and our current and future students,” said CSU President Chris Markwood. “The job outlook in robotics engineering is extremely bright, with an increasingly high demand for talent right here in Columbus. This is yet another opportunity for us to work with local employers to

President Markwood met with Governor Brian Kemp in August to discuss CSU's new innovative degree in robotics engineering, the nexus degrees in film production and cybersecurity, and how CSU will continue to act as an engine of economic development throughout the region.

CSU Students Study Art of Marvel’s Cinematic Universe 8

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train tomorrow’s workforce with the exact skills needed within our region.”

The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Annual Job Outlook report consistently ranks engineering as one of the top in-demand fields in the country, with 72% of NACE survey respondents from 2014–2018 indicating their intention to employ someone with an engineering degree in the upcoming year. The need for a robotics engineering program in the region became even more apparent following the U.S. Army’s relocation of the Maneuver Center of Excellence and the U.S. Armor School to Fort Benning. Although CSU has offered an associate’s degree of science in engineering studies and a 21 credit hour robotics certificate since 2011, this will be CSU’s first full engineering degree that does not require students to transfer elsewhere before completion.

“Now engineering students will be able to stay right here at Columbus State University,” said Dr. Clinton Barineau, Chair of CSU’s Department of Earth and Space Sciences. “We will also work with community partners to provide our students with internship and job opportunities here in Columbus.”

In addition to CSU’s proximity to Fort Benning, the work of CSU’s Coca Cola

Dr. Chris McCollough, Associate Professor of Communication at CSU, piloted a new course that explores the critical, cultural, and political topics found within Marvel Cinematic Universe films. The course, ITDS 1145 Comparative Arts, was held during the mini I session this summer and allows students to earn credit towards core curriculum requirements.

The class looked at the first 11 years of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as students considered how Marvel’s comics and current film series provide commentary and provoke critical thought on politics, culture, and citizenship in society.

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Space Science Center and the university’s role as host to the GeorgiaFIRST Robotics Competition were all assets in obtaining approval for the new program. With facilities for 3D design and printing, the CCSSC has been engaged in robotics teacher training, student research programs, summer camps, competitions, and federally-funded grant activities for more than half a decade.

As host of the GeorgiaFIRST Robotics Competition, CSU has also developed valuable partnerships with Fort Benning and local employers in introducing youth to robotics opportunities.

“We pride ourselves on offering innovative education programs that ensure students are well-prepared for existing jobs in the field,” said CSU Provost Deborah Bordelon.

“The new robotics engineering program will further demonstrate the crucial role that CSU plays in developing a highly skilled workforce for industry partners regionally and nationally.”

The new degrees will be housed in CSU’s Department of Earth and Space Sciences, a department within the College of Letters and Sciences. Students will have the option of earning a bachelor’s degree in four years or adding an additional year to receive their master’s degree.

McCollough had good reason for working with the source material and engaging his students in the critical examination of the media. He says of Marvel Comics and the MCU, “When Stan Lee and Jack Kirby developed this mythology, they were commenting on 1960s America, and trying to help young people figure out how to be a part of that world. At the time, we were dealing with many of the same issues around race, class, gender, war, and citizenship that we see in society today. To the credit of today’s filmmakers, they are keeping those themes and applying many of them to today’s concerns.”

CAMPUS NEWS

CSU ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF 8TH ANNUAL BUSINESS PLAN COMPETITION Columbus State University’s Turner College of Business recently awarded three aspiring entrepreneurs with funding to launch their own businesses. The recipients were the winners of CSU’s eighth annual Business Plan Competition, which is open to both students and members of the community.

This year’s contest attracted the largest number of applicants, with 69 business plans submitted. CSU alumna Melanie Phillips was named the 2019 winner with her business, Transitional Independence LLC. In her plan, Phillips pointed out a profound shortage of organizations that meet the needs of intellectually challenged adults in the Columbus community. The business will offer curriculum specifically designed for clients with complex learning needs, while incorporating research based instructional support and evidence-based teaching strategies to create an interactive learning environment.

The second-place winner was Juan Pinto of JP Flight School, which seeks to address a shortage of trained pilots by offering the first full-time flight school in Columbus. Melanie Miller of Miller Family Farm received the third-place prize with an idea to offer fruits, vegetables, and u-cut Christmas trees in Marion County.

Applicants’ business plans were judged on content, description, and use of language by a panel of judges. Cash prizes of $3,000, $2,000, and $1,000 were awarded to the first, second, and third place winners respectively.

Judges this year were Rod Barham, President of BookKeeping Express, LLC; Lou Childs, Founder and COO Dovetail Essentials; David Mitchell, Director of Enterprise Development at CSU; Russ Carreker, Chairman of the Development Authority of Columbus; Steve Taylor, retired entrepreneur; Ben MacMinn, Director of StartUP Columbus; and Herman Williams, mentor with SCORE of Columbus.

As students engaged in discussion online each week, they also wrote two-page reflection essays on key themes ranging from citizenship to racial inequality to power and responsibility. The final project called for students to produce a five-page treatment for a Marvel Comics character not yet included in the MCU who will be encountering social and political issues important to each individual student.

For those interested in the future of the course, there will be new life for the material in an upcoming Special Topics course in Communication, which will be available in Spring 2020. McCollough plans to expand the catalog

An additional business plan competition was available to Muscogee County School District students in January. The firstplace winner of that competition was UV Soft, developed by Columbus High School students Xianjie Wu, Noor Abdullah, Ishika Samantarai and Ramon Xie. The second-place winner was Springboard from Columbus High School students Arayman Singh and Aiden Anderson. The third-place winner was Garcia Lawn and Pet from Columbus High School students Ashwin Mahadecan and Ben Garcia. The fourth-place winner was Lavish Den from Carver High School student Robin Ramsey.

The business plan competition was created in 2012 by Dr. Kirk Heriot, who holds the Crowley Chair in Entrepreneurship. Prize winners from previous years have gone on to start new businesses based on the plans that they entered into the competition.

of characters discussed, as well as the connection to current events with which students can engage.

McCollough said of the next iteration: “I spent a lot of time reviewing 22 films in preparation, and had to make some tough calls on characters and themes to make a fiveweek course work at the 1000-level. I’m eager to bring in characters like Peter Parker, Nick Fury, Captain Marvel, specific Guardians of the Galaxy members, and spend more time on villains in a way that will help students focus more deeply on the artistic process in filmmaking that resonates with community, gender, and political communication for a 4000-level Communication course.”

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CLASS NOTES 2004

2009

Rhonda Bradford, B.S.Ed. ’04 was named Elementary School Teacher of the Year in Dade County, Georgia.

Crystal Irving, B.B.A. ’09 recieved her graduate degree from Webster University’s George Herbert Walker School of Business & Technology (St. Louis, MO) with a Master of Business Administration.

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2012

Barrett Scroggs, B.S.Ed. ’10 was awarded the Pennsylvania State University, Mont Alto Faculty Scholar Award in May of 2019. Dr. Barrett Scroggs is an Assistant Professor of Human Development and Family Studies at Pennsylvania State University, Mont Alto.

Andy Luker, B.B.A. ’12 Alumni Association Board Member married Monica Elmer on March 16, 2019 in Columbus, Georgia.

2014

Sommer Rinehart, B.B.A. ’05 Past President of the Alumni Association, Sommer Bundy married Jeff Rinehart in September 2018. They now reside in Montgomery, Alabama.

Michael Hermes, B.B.A. ’09 received his graduate degree from Webster University’s George Herbert Walker School of Business & Technology (St. Louis, MO) with a Master of Human Resource Management.

Dr. Jennifer Silvers, B.S. ’10 & M.S. ’12, and her team opened the first Veterinary Treatment Facility to be located with a Medical Treatment facility in Garrison in Vicenza, Italy.

Heather Cohen, B.S.Ed. ’14 graduated in May with her M.A. in Educational Leadership from the University of Central Florida and accepted a job as a coordinator in the Office of Student Conduct.

2017

2011

2010 Amanda Elwood, B.S. ’05 & B.S.N. ’14 was awarded the Daisy Award in May 2018. The Daisy Award is an international recognition program that celebrates the skillful and compassionate care nurses provide. Amanda was awarded this in honor of her work as a Labor and Delivery Nurse at St. Francis Hospital.

2008 Karprice Bentley-Brown, B.S.Ed. ’08 & Ed.S. ’16 was named principal at Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School.

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Payton McManious Burt, B.S.N. ’17 married Aubrey Burt on April 27 in Columbus, Georgia.

Dr. De’smond Henry, B.A. ’10, is a rising fourth year Obstetrics & Gynecology Resident at Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta. He has been selected to be the administrative chief resident for the 2019–20 academic year.

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Kenyetta Vann, B.S. ’11 was named Teacher of the Year for Norfolk Public Schools. Kenyetta is an eighth grade physical science teacher at Norview Middle School.

Brooke Gaus, B.S.N. ’17 was named Nurse of the Year at Piedmont Columbus Regional.

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FROM REFUGEE TO GRADUATE

CSU’s Coca Cola Space Science Center recently celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Apollo moon landing with a series of events, including a lecture

by Apollo 13 Astronaut Fred Haise. Follow the CCSSC on Facebook to learn more about what’s happening at the Center (and in space!).

Paul Yarwaye, a former refugee from Liberia, graduated in May with his second CSU degree.

Read how he hopes to use his education to bring clean drinking water to his home country on page 30.

MAKING CHEMISTRY MORE ACCESSIBLE Hannah Turner and Mary Harrell, CSU computer science students, created a tool to assist visually-impaired students in chemistry labs. They took their tool to GPB studios to compete in the Georgia InVenture Prize competition

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FEATURE

1985 Spring Presidents staff

60TH ANNIVERSARY PART THREE: UNIVERSITY AVENUE

Story by JOSH BECKER | Photos by CSU ARCHIVES

F

or over 20 years, Columbus College’s star had been on the rise. The young institution had experienced a prolonged period of economic growth, climbing enrollment numbers, and academic excellence. Yet for every mountain summit, there is a precipitous plunge into the valley below, and the 1980s would prove to be Columbus College’s nadir. Thanks to a rift wrought by a dearth in leadership, it looked highly unlikely that university status would ever be achieved.

The troubles began with an exodus in the upper echelons of the administration.

President Whitley’s retirement signaled a changing of the guards, and thus Columbus College entered the ’80s with no president, no vice president of academic affairs, no vice president for business and finance, and no basketball coach. The Saber would come to call Columbus College “the home of the search committee.” That pervasive sense of searching would come to characterize the entire decade.

The search committee for the next

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president consisted of 27 faculty and staff members and was headed by Dr. George Stanton, then a biology professor. The college would be without a permanent leader for nearly a year, with two people serving as acting president in the interim: Dr. John E. Anderson, who would soon accept the position of president at Christopher Newport College in Virginia; and, later, Dr. William LeNoir. This uncertain period was a harbinger of things to come.

On June 12, 1980, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia announced that Dr. Francis J. Brooke would be Columbus College’s next president. Dr. Stanton told the Ledger that “the mood of the school’s faculty and students is one of the best ever, or at least since the streakers.”

Like “Streak Week,” the festivities would be short-lived.

President Brooke’s first task would be rebuilding the college’s leadership group.

Dr. Sue A. Dezendolet became the first woman to serve as vice president of academic affairs at Columbus College; and Dr.

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Frank Brown, fresh off stints with the IBM Corporation and the University of Houston, assumed the role of vice president for business and finance. Herbert Greene was picked to succeed longtime basketball coach “Sonny” Clements and, within two years, was named athletic director — a position he would hold for the next 20 years.

The new leadership group faced a number of crucial challenges. Enrollment plummeted between 1975 and 1987, falling from 5,674 to 3,602. Add to those alarming numbers a series of to-the-bone budget cuts necessitating the continuous cutting of corners to simply keep the college operational, and it’s clear the campus was stamping out fires on a powder keg.

Morale was low, so low that students responded to a poll asking them to rate the quality of student life on campus with a resounding “inadequate.” During these dark days, Chancellor Vernon Crawford of the Board of Regents went so far as to say that chances were “remote that Columbus College will ever become a university.”

FEATURE

The ’80s would have been a difficult period based on these challenges alone, yet the situation was exacerbated by a series of misunderstandings and communication breakdowns that took their toll on students and faculty. First, there was the freezing of the Student Government Association reserve funds. Students strongly — and publicly — questioned whether they had the right to request funding from $50,000 in surplus student activity fees, as had been standard operating procedure under the previous administration. Whether it was a simple matter of miscommunication or Brooke’s self-admitted “newness” on campus, the ordeal dragged on for nearly nine months.

Perhaps even more problematic was the controversy involving Brooke’s acceptance of an all-inclusive trip to the 10th annual Conference of the Unity of the Sciences in Seoul, South Korea. The conference was sponsored by Reverend Sun Myung Moon’s Unification Church. Unfor-

tunately, Sun Myung Moon was convicted on federal tax evasion charges and spent time in prison; and his church was said to have employed brainwashing techniques to recruit members. It was not a good look for Brooke, who shrugged it off with the limp defense, “Attendance at the meeting does not mean that you endorse the Unification Church or its teachings.”

Even with all the controversy and contention, there, too, were triumphs amongst the downturn. In 1982, Dr. Dezendolet recommended the reorganization of the academic divisions into colleges, each headed by a dean: Arts and Letters, led by Dr. Paul Vander Gheynst; Science, led by Dr. LeNoir; Education, led by Dr. Joseph C. Johnson; and Business, led by Dr. Olice Embry. This new plan initially caused some consternation, but in the long term provided the basic institutional structure still utilized by CSU today.

Also, 1982 marked the commencement of Columbus College’s Silver Anniversary,

and a huge celebration was staged to observe the occasion, culminating in an open house on May 14, 1983 — replete with a 1,000-pound birthday cake, live music, the Fort Benning Silver Wings Parachute Team, and a faculty softball game. The celebration was meant to draw the community back to the campus, reenergize the public with Cougar spirit, and reaffirm Columbus College’s commitment to excellence.

The Silver Anniversary succeeded in that aim, paving the way for the indisputable high point of the Brooke era: the Campaign for Excellence, a major capital campaign led by chairman Ray E. Crowley and co-vice chairmen Hugh Landrum, Jr. and Charles A McClure. With a goal of $4 million, the campaign would exceed all expectations, bringing in over $6 million.

The president, in summing up the campaign, said, “The community showed it not only cared about this college … but cared enough to invest in its future.”

State budgets were shrinking. Enrollment was on the decline. Faculty and staff were being laid off. Tenure requirements were strengthened. The back-breaking straw came when $900,000 was spent on landscaping. The beautification project enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the campus, but faculty and students found the timing impossible to justify.

A vote of no confidence was issued in the spring of 1986; a second was imminent in January of the following year.

Brooke’s presidency came to an end on June 30, 1987.

And with that, Columbus College was once again “the home of the search committee.”

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FEATURE STORY

THE ROAD TO UNIVERSITY STATUS The ’80s were an era of severe growing pains, bridges burned, and lessons hard-learned. But though the process, Columbus College came out the other side a stronger, more mature institution. By the eve of the 1990s, the faculty, staff, and students had rekindled a sense of optimism and a sense that no dream was too big to realize.

Much of this new optimism was due to the passion, positivity, and stability brought about by the leadership of new president, Dr. Frank Brown.

With an emphasis on strengthening community partnerships, Columbus College would partner with TSYS to create a workforce development program that was so successful it would later expand to include the establishment of the Intellectual Capital Partnership Program — or ICAPP. This grant prepared 2,500 students to staff TSYS’s new corporate headquarters in Columbus.

At the end of the decade, a second equally successful ICAPP was implemented, this time with Aflac. Other notable partnerships were developed with the Columbus Water Works and Muscogee County

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School District to open Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center in 1995; and with Coca-Cola to launch the Challenger Space Science Center in 1996.

There was also a strong commitment to establishing the college as a center for excellence in the arts and humanities. These efforts would lay the foundation for a period of expansion not seen since the 1960s, one that would result in the eventual construction of an entirely new arts-centered urban campus in downtown Columbus.

But, above all, under Dr. Brown’s leadership, CSU solidified its commitment to serving the students first, becoming a model of servant leadership in the process.

The ’90s were a renaissance period for Columbus College, renewal and rebirth could be seen and felt all across campus. It was a period that began with the construction of the Thomas Y. Whitley Clock Tower — built with the bricks from the old Shannon Hosiery Mill — and ended with the dream of university status finally achieved.

Editor’s Note: The following is an excerpt from an interview the Alumni Magazine conducted with Dr. Brown earlier this year, during the 60th anniversary celebrations.

Alumni Magazine: What led to the construction of the now-iconic clock tower?

Dr. Brown: In the days of the ’80s and on into the ’90s, we were facilities-poor. Space was at a premium, growth of the enrollment and the advent of student housing on campus pushed us toward a period of steady and planned development in our academic and athletic structures. Key to our success in gaining funding for academic space was our refined marketing of the school. As most local colleges have found, it is often difficult to attract local students.

Columbus College had no recognizable iconic structure on campus, and given the roads around the school, it could almost be driven past and not really seen. The alumni association joined in the discussion of the need for a campus landmark, and the idea of the clock tower was conceived. Naming the tower for our founding president, Dr. Thomas Y. Whitley, became the united front we needed, and a special campaign was begun to pay for it.

AM: What effect did the clock tower have on the campus and the morale of faculty, staff, and students?

Dr. Brown: The plan for the tower signified a transition of the school and, coincidentally, the original home of the college, the Shannon Hosiery Mill, was about to be demolished to make room for a new elementary school. We negotiated a plan where bricks from the mill could be delivered to the college and could be used

to augment the brickwork planned for the tower. Soon large piles of brick, most in good condition and some broken in the process, could be seen on the hillside near the current soccer complex. On Saturdays, we held “brick-cleaning parties” where we took hammer and chisel to the brick and cleaned the mortar away, preparing the brick for their new home in the tower.

Some bricks were also set aside for sale to help raise funds. In addition to the red brick of the mill, some of the large, rounded brick, which made up the huge smoke stacks, came along as a premium. Small metal plates were attached to identify the brick, and they were ready for sale. The unity of effort of family and students in this project went a long way to helping us rebuild trust and the feeling of family that long had sustained Columbus College.

AM: The college had long sought to achieve university status. During the 1980s, that goal appeared to be out of reach. What turned the tide in public perception and led to Columbus College becoming Columbus State University?

Dr. Brown: On our part, we continued to offer evidence of the value of our programs and degrees and to petition the Board of Regents to authorize the change in our name. In the meantime, we were not idle in pushing the matter.

As an example of our intent to seize the moment when it seemed appropriate was our joining with the Columbus Consolidated Government as Cody Road, our perceived boundary on the east side of the campus, was being widened and extended across Gentian Boulevard to intersect with Manchester Expressway at the entrance to Peachtree Mall. We recognized that the road project would have a major impact

on our campus, in effect shifting the front door of the college from Lindsey Drive to University Avenue (our suggested name for the improved street known as Cody Road). We worked with our representative on City Council and began a door-to-door visit with all residents and businesses on Cody Road to gain their agreement on the changing of the name of the street to University Avenue. We were met with almost unanimous agreement by our neighbors, and we petitioned the city for the name change to coincide with the opening of the new avenue. Not long after the official changing of the name of the street to University Avenue, the Chancellor of the University System came to campus for an event. He pulled me aside and noted the new name of the street and the new address for the college. Our response was that it seemed to have a nice ring to it.

AM: How was it announced that university status had finally been achieved?

Dr. Brown: As it happened, the Board of Regents was convinced of the appropriateness of awarding university status to our institution, and to several other of our sister schools as well, and in a meeting in June 1996, the action was approved by the Board — coincidently, on that day we were gathered with a host of dignitaries and officials to have the grand opening of the Coca-Cola Space Science Center in Uptown Columbus. When we learned of the Board’s action in Atlanta, we were able to make the announcement to our most fervent supporters and some internationally famous guests as well. Columbus State University had arrived! •

In the next installment, “Part Four: The Creative University,” a second campus rises, CSU becomes a First Choice Institution, and Columbus State embraces its legacy of creativity in the launch of its “Create You” brand campaign.

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FEATURE STORY

GET ON BOARD AND VOLUNTEER! OTHER WAYS TO STAY ENGAGED

Sophia Howard playing tennis at Camp Abilities.

Story by JOSH BECKER

W

hen it comes to alumni engagement, there are so many ways to get involved and make a difference.

While donations are always welcome, never underestimate how important and transformative your time, passion, and expertise can be in helping to enhance our university and change the lives of our students, their families, and the community at large. A college education is an expensive investment and post-collegiate life is often a period of tightened belts and overtime, so if monetary donations are a bridge too far, perhaps there is an advisory board with a seat at the table for you — or an opportunity to volunteer for a program that not only fulfills a community need but adds fulfillment to your life, as well.

Advisory boards are comprised of a group of university and community leaders who are brought together to provide guidance and feedback on prevalent issues of paramount importance to students, faculty, staff, and the wider region. Board member’s insight is invaluable to institutions like CSU, so alumni looking to elevate the reputation of their alma mater would have the opportunity to do so on various advisory boards across campus.

One such advisory board is CSU’s Athletic Fund Board, now chaired by Adam Smitherman, who moved to Columbus in 2013. Shortly after moving here, he was introduced to Columbus State athletics and the Athletic Fund Board by his fatherin-law and longtime CSU supporter, John Shinkle. “My wife and I are both former college athletes and fans of college athletics,” Smitherman revealed, “so it was natural that I would become involved in an organization that supports and furthers the advancement of student-athletes.”

Smitherman has served on the board for nearly four years, previously holding the positions of secretary and vice-president

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before being nominated as president for 2019-2020. “I am very proud to participate on a board that has such great supporters, allowing us to have a positive impact on the future of CSU athletics and especially the student-athletes,” he says. “The members of this board are not only focused on athletics, but also the importance of ensuring CSU student-athletes are provided a great education.”

The mission of the Athletic Fund Board is to make a positive impact on studentathletes’ lives through fundraising and by attending and promoting athletic events.

The Cougar Club is one of many opportunities for individuals to provide financial support to CSU athletics. Several fundraisers are held throughout the year, as well.

One such fundraiser is the Herbert Greene Fifth Year Scholarship Golf Tournament.

“Named after former basketball coach and athletic director Herbert Greene, who I and many others consider to be the most influential person in the history of CSU athletics, this scholarship program ensures that there is financial support for studentathletes to complete their classes during a fifth year due to their involvement in CSU athletics,” Smitherman explained. “The scholarship was originally made possible by supporters who see the importance of educating our student-athletes. While sports are a large part of these young athletes’ lives, it is their education which will allow them to solidify their success in the future.”

The greatest challenge facing Smitherman and his fellow board members is recruiting and retaining young professionals who are not only willing to become involved in the board but also are passionately invested in its success and its support of CSU Athletics. That is why he invites students and faculty, friends and family alike to experience our athletics programs firsthand — to show our school spirit by cheering on our student-athletes as they strive

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for success, both on and off the field. “The easiest way for people to get involved is to come out and support the CSU studentathletes by attending games and sporting events,” Smitherman urged. “We have topnotch Division II athletic programs that consistently compete in the postseason and bring home championships. So, check out the Cougar Club, bring out your family, and I guarantee you will experience some of the best family entertainment Columbus has to offer.”

In addition to advisory boards, there are also many opportunities across campus to volunteer. One such opportunity is CSU’s Camp Abilities, a Memorial Day weekend camp for children, ages nine to eighteen, who are blind or visually impaired. The camp focuses on sports and promotes independence, increasing self-esteem, and building fundamental motor and sports skills. Next summer will be Camp Abilities’ ninth year on campus, each year guided by the leadership of Dr. Jeanine FittipaldiWert, known affectionately on campus as Dr. J. Dr. Wert’s area is Heath and Physical Education and Adapted Physical Eduction, and she teaches children of all ability levels, including blind or visually impaired, autistic, amputations, sensory issues, and children with behavioral issues and intellectual disabilities. It was while attending the College at Brockport in upstate New York that

The easiest way for people to get involved is to come out and support the CSU student-athletes by attending games and sporting events.

Adam Smitherman, CSU Athletic Fund Board Member

FEATURE STORY Wert discovered Camp Abilities. “Camp Abilities is the vision of a Brockport professor named Dr. Lauren Lieberman,” Wert said. “Camp Abilities now operates in multiple states because Lieberman encouraged all of us that either attended Brockport or had gone to the camp or had a passion for vision to one day open a Camp Abilities in our state. I’ve been at CSU for 11 years, and eight years ago, I decided to establish a Camp Abilities here.”

The response from local business leaders was immediate and immense, and it has only grown over the years. Some of the camp’s biggest supporters are Country’s Barbecue, Georgia Society of Ophthalmology, Ride-On Bikes, West Georgia Eye Care, and Zaxby’s on Macon Road, who has provided lunch for the entire eight years run.

The enthusiasm and expertise of the volunteers is also a remarkable success story. “Our volunteers are health and physical education majors, along with some health sciences and exercise science majors, so most of our majors come from CSU’s Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences,” Wert recounted. “They keep coming

back because once you come to camp, you very much get drawn into it. It’s a phenomenal experience. You’re in an environment where everything is positive, and you’re helping children unlock their potential. It’s life changing for everyone involved.”

Dr. Wert’s Camp Abilities has become so successful in the time it has been on campus that she forewent advertising for the session held last May. Not only did camp registration fill up without relying on marketing, the volunteer registration filled up by word of mouth alone. “I did talk about it in my classes, because when I introduce myself to my students, I let them know this is something I do here. We have about a dozen alumni from health and PE or exercise science that continually come back every year, and they are instrumental in helping me run camp that weekend,” she says. “They all started off as counselors, but many of them are now running activities, they are helping out with food, they really have a hand in everything. Because they are CSU alumni, they know the facilities, they know what we have in-house in PE, so if we need something extra, they can go

get it. It’s really just awesome. Camp Abilities creates a little family that weekend. It’s phenomenal.”

Also phenomenal is the impact Camp Abilities has on the children who participate. In fact, one former camper is well on his way to becoming a future CSU alumnus. “One of my first four campers eight years ago just successfully completed his first year at CSU, just barely missing honors by two points,” Wert proudly recalled. “And because of Camp Abilities, he was introduced to sports for people that are blind, and now he plays on an Atlanta Force Goalball team. That is a huge success story.

But, in general, anyone that comes to Camp Abilities is impacted in a meaningful way, whether it’s volunteers or the kids, because it is a life-changing experience. For the kids, it promotes self-esteem, independence, and the opportunity to know that they can do anything that they want to do.” • For more information on how to get involved with an advisory board or volunteer on campus, contact CSU’s Office of Alumni Engagement at alumni@columbusstate.edu.

EVENING AT THE

Bo

Mercedes Benz Car Raffle, Creative Cocktails, Fireworks, Live Artists, Entertainment & More An evening supporting student scholarships

Thursday, October 17, 2019 6:00 PM Bo Bartlett Center $50+ per person

Register at Alumni.ColumbusState.edu/EveningAtTheBo CREATIVE TO THE CORE

Fall 2019

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COVER STORY

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COVER STORY

COUGARS FOR LIFE: PROFILES IN ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT Story by JOSH BECKER

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t means something to be a Cougar, to hail the glorious red and blue. As alumni, we each cherish a shared history. The courses that pushed us to our limits. The professors that inspired us to exceed those limits.

The nights spent cramming in Schwob and the morning victories of midterms bested.

The tolling of the clock tower bells calling us to class and the lifelong friends we called on to help us along our journey to graduation. From the Shannon Hosiery Mill to the cozy commuter college days, the road to university status and the emergence of Columbus State as a premiere “Creative University,” whether we ever met or even attended CSU at the same time, we have become a family.

It also means something to be a family. Family checks up on each other. They stay in touch. They care. As with any relationship — be it familial, friendly, or one’s alma mater — communication is a two-way

street. Many of us owe our career successes to our time on campus. Many of us met our significant other here. Many of us were afforded the opportunity to create our best selves here. These are accomplishments to be celebrated. Each of you, our alumni, deserve to be celebrated. Your successes are Columbus State’s, and the university’s successes are yours.

In this issue, we reached out to several alumni and asked them how they stay engaged with their alma mater. Their stories are unique, personal accounts of their time at CSU and how they remain connected to the university. But at their heart, each account is of a piece, one story imbued with gratitude, loyalty, and the unwavering passion to help Columbus State University continue to create, to innovate, and to elevate the college experience for all of those who will follow in our footsteps.

This story begins at the beginning.

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COVER STORY

JAMIE LEE:

CREATE THE CHANGE YOU WANT TO SEE A 1993 alumna, Jamie Lee’s relationship with Columbus State began when she was in high school. The Columbus native was an accomplished softball player, attracting the attention of Lady Cougars softball coach Larry Kees. Coach Kees approached Lee about joining the team, offering her a scholarship. The timing was fortuitous as Lee was in the midst of a period of personal upheaval. “My parents were going through a divorce and, at the time, I really didn’t know what to do,” Lee recalled.

“The one thing I was certain of was that I had an opportunity to pursue my education here at Columbus State. I feel very grateful to have had the opportunity, and Coach Kees even went a step further. Understanding my situation, he helped me apply for financial hardship funds, so that not only my tuition was covered, but also my lodging, books, food vouchers, you name it. He essentially did everything he could to create this opportunity for me.”

Now the chief service officer at AFLAC and a proud parent of two young men, Lee credits her success to the education she received at CSU but also points out the importance of the lessons she learned on the softball field. “There are so many things can be gained from athletics,” Lee related. “With the women’s softball program, you learn so many skills that are transferable into the workplace. In fact, they prepare you for the transition into the workforce, things like teamwork and discipline, work ethic, structure, winning and losing. All of those things prepared me for the progression that I’ve had in my career at AFLAC, because I think all of those skills were required.”

Once she had established her career and raised a family, Lee began to think of a way to not only thank her alma mater for the opportunities her education had brought about, but to also assist future female studentathletes in transforming their raw talent into life and career success.

She reached out to Cameron Bean, CSU’s executive director of development, for more information on boards, volunteer opportunities, and other ways to stay engaged. During these conversations, she became aware that the Lady Cougars softball team was the only athletic program to not have an endowment. “It was a sign,” proclaimed Lee. “So much was given to me, at a very critical point in my life, and the Lady Cougars Softball Scholarship Endowment was an opportunity for me to give back.”

The Lady Cougars Softball Scholarship Endowment is Lee’s way to pay forward the scholarship support and character development that changed her life. But Lee doesn’t stop there. She also offers mentorship and encouragement to young women looking to balance classes and clashes on the field. “Take it all in, don’t take one moment of the whole experience for granted,” Lee urged. “Also put an equal emphasis on both reasons why you are here. You’re here as an athlete, obviously, and to me that is the fun part of the job. You get to do something that you love day in and day out, but you also have a huge opportunity to pursue an education — a great education — and you need to emphasize both. Because that’s ultimately what you are going to need, the skills from both experiences as you transition into the workforce.”

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COVER STORY

W. WAYNE WILKES: THE BEST YEARS

W. Wayne Wilkes was here when it all started. And his road here was a long one.

While not particularly keen on fighting in the Korean War, Wilkes nonetheless joined the Navy to serve his country in 1953.

Upon his discharge in August of 1958, he was resolute about furthering his education.

The late ’50s were hard times. The economy was in recession, jobs were hard to come by, and, due to a transient childhood, Wilkes had fallen behind in his studies. In addition to these hurdles, Wilkes discovered that his father had remarried and started a new family that included five children. It was then that he realized he was on his own, but that wouldn’t stop him. He was driven, and the military would assist with his tuition. He’d just have to figure out the rest of the details on his own.

He found that a small community college was opening in the city where he resided, and he enrolled at Columbus College on Sept. 22, 1958, the first day of registration at the old Shannon Hosiery Mill campus.

Wilkes had no place to live, so he hunkered down in his 1950 Oldsmobile. “I slept there quite a bit. I even slept in the schoolyard a couple of times. It was a struggle,” admitted Wilkes. “I even had to beg a few times, ‘Are you going to eat the rest of that sandwich?’

But I got through. I managed to graduate in two years, going the summers and all, so I thought I did pretty damn good.”

His success at Columbus College is remarkable for several reasons. In addition to his financial situation, Wilkes was also dyslexic. He couldn’t spell, so English was tough, and sevens and nines gave him fits when it came to multiplication. Still, he persevered, devising little tricks to act as shorthand. “I remember a lady sitting there and she had a file folder, and she said, ‘Mr. Wilkes, do you know your SAT score was 400?’ I asked, ‘Is that good?’ and she said, ‘Absolutely not. We’re not supposed to let you in school, however you’re a veteran so we have to, and you’re going to have to take

all remedial courses.’ I told her I don’t care what I have to do, I just want to get enrolled.

And I did.”

Wilkes is quick with a story from the early days. This institution means a lot to him. He remembers when the Saber was created; he recalls the first dances, held at the Country Club of Columbus; and he is fond of his time as president of the athletic association. He still says that Columbus College was the best place to go to school, and that Dr. Whitley was “as fine a man as I ever met.” He reminisces of the time he and some buddies protested a decline in the basketball team’s performance. “There was seven or eight guys like me, already 21, in the service, out of the service, and we were going to school primarily with a bunch of 18-year olds,” Wilkes recalled. “The basketball team had lost 18 straight games, so we decided that we weren’t going to shave until they finally won another game. After a couple of days, we were in the snack bar, and Dr. Whitley made one of his rounds.

He stopped and looked at us and pointed his finger and said, ‘You, you, you in my office.’ Mind you, he was a big ole 6-foot-2, 230 pounder, and we did what he said. So we went in his office and he asked, ‘What is the meaning of this?’ And we said, ‘What?’ acting coy. He said, ‘The beards!’ And we said, ‘The basketball team hasn’t won, and we aren’t going to shave until they do!’ He said, ‘Well, I can understand your point of view, but get your butts home, shave, and get back here to class!’ We bolted.”

Wilkes graduated from Columbus College after two years and then moved on to Georgia State, where he obtained a degree in management, but he considers his time here as some of the best years of his life.

Seeing the growth of the campus and the shift to university status fills him pride. “I think it’s wonderful. I got to go to the campus early on after I graduated and took some insurance courses there, back when there were only a couple of buildings. Now, it’s

exponential. I recently got to tour downtown, and I think it’s wonderful how the college has married itself to the city. There aren’t many places that things like that ever happen, you know? I’m just real proud it’s my school.”

Wilkes recently became a Tower Society donor. The Tower Society recognizes those supporters who make annual gifts to Columbus State University at the leadership level of $1,000. Wilkes, at the time, was unaware of the various societies. He just wanted lunch. “My friend Charlie was supposed to accept the invitation for lunch at an alumni gathering last spring, but when we got down here, I found out that he hadn’t confirmed us,” Wilkes said. “So, I go up to the door and I said, ‘Listen, I’m sorry we didn’t say that we were coming, but if I write y’all a check for $1,000, would you let us eat lunch?’ They said, ‘Yeah!’ So, I did.”

When asked of the importance of staying connected and engaged with his alma mater, Wilkes waxes nostalgic. “There’s probably not a week that goes by that my mind doesn’t flash back to the good ole days, and that was 60 years ago. Those were some of the best years of my life.”

Wilkes, standing at right, attending an alumni function with lifelong friend Charlie Smith, seated.

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COVER STORY

ALEXIS KNOX:

FROM STUDENT TO STAFF Alexis Knox always tells people that she didn’t choose CSU, CSU chose her. It all started on Discovery Day, when Knox visited the campus with a friend. Unlike her friend, Knox had no plans to attend Columbus State; but, upon touring the campus and meeting with faculty and staff, she discovered that she loved everything about the school.

She applied and was accepted the week before her high school graduation. She would go on to receive her bachelor’s degree in sociology in December 2016, returning immediately to earn her master’s degree in organizational leadership in December 2018. “I will say that CSU is a hidden gem,” said Knox. “It’s one of the places that you can really call home.

I think that’s why I really enjoy being here, and that’s why I came back to get my second degree. I needed to go back where I was comfortable, and I had made so many connections here and was able to network with so many different people. I wanted to go back home, so I came back to CSU and I got my second degree.”

After obtaining her master’s, Knox pondered the best way to stay engaged and give back to a school that had given her so much, so she decided to, again, come back home by taking the position of community outreach coordinator for Student Life and Development here at CSU. “I really enjoy student affairs because it’s an opportunity to give students the drive that they need to enhance their experience outside of the classroom,” Knox explained. “I love being able to engage with students and to impact their experience, whether that’s through professional development, through leadership develop-

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ment, whether that’s doing different workshops and making sure that students have the tools and resources in order for them to excel. I feel that I’ve been able to kind of be an advocate for students like myself because I am an alum, and I know what students need and what they want, so I’m very close to students and I definitely can be an advocate for them.”

Knox’s relationship with CSU is deeply personal and almost familial in its feeling. She was a first generation college student, so she did come to think of this place as home. When her mother passed away in May of 2015, her Cougar family was there to comfort and care for her. “When I lost my mom, I felt so connected to my office,” Knox recalled. “Student Life was there to comfort me, to nurture me. Some of them took on that ownership of treating me like family.

I feel that I owe it to CSU because there are a lot of people that have invested in me.”

Sometimes the best way to stay engaged is simply to stay, and as much as CSU was there for Knox when she needed it most, she is also there for her CSU family when they are most in need. “I know that post-grad depression is something that is real, and I definitely want to encourage alumni to keep pushing, keep trying, utilize your resources,” urged Knox. “You can always come back to the career center because you are CSU alumni. You can get that resume critique, we’ll help you find a job, we’ll help you utilize your resources, network, get out there and see what your options are. You may not be where you want to be now, but eventually you’ll get there. Just never give up.”

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COVER STORY

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COVER STORY

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COVER STORY

LET’S KEEP IN TOUCH Each of these stories is unique, but there is a clear through line that connects them all: this is a special place and, thanks to our time here, we are family. You are family. What’s your story? We’d love to hear it. Reach out. Let’s keep in touch. Let’s strive to stay engaged. Let’s celebrate our successes and offer consolation in times of strife. Relationships are two-way streets, and we want you to know that a light is always on for you here at CSU, that the clock tower bells will always toll for you, and that no matter where it is that you call home, you’ll always have a home here. • To share your story with the alumni magazine, contact University Relations at ur@columbusstate.edu.

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ALUMNI AWARDS LUNCHEON | OCT 18 EVENING AT THE BO BARTLETT CENTER | OCT 17

COUGARFEST | OCT 19

EVENING AT THE BO BARTLETT CENTER | OCT 1

ALUMNI AWARDS LUNCHEON | OCT 18

COUGARFEST | OCT 19

Create Memories

Create Memories

From contests and concerts to tailgating, a parade, and fireworks, you

From contests and concerts to tailgating, a parade, and fireworks, you

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CSUand carconcerts raffletooftailgating, a Mercedes Benz! and We’ve got something the first From contests a parade, fireworks, you

the first CSU car raffle of a Mercedes Benz! We’ve got something From contests and concerts to tailgating, a parade, and fireworks, you for thewant entire family so Homecoming mark your and and join join us us won’t to anyto of enjoy, this year’s events – especially themiss entire enjoy, mark calendars your calendars won’tfor want to miss family any of to this year’ssoHomecoming events – especially the

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We’vegot got something for the family to enjoy, so mark your your calendars and join in us October for for entire the entire family to enjoy, so mark calendars and us join all the fall and in October for fun all the fallfestivities. fun and festivities.

NTER | OCT 17 WOMEN’S SOCCER | OCT 19

17 WOMEN’S SOCCER | OCT 19

WOMEN’S SOCCER | OCT 17 OCT 17 WOMEN’S SOCCER | OCT 19

For more information, please visit https://alumni.columbusstate.edu/homecoming

For more information, please visit https://alumni.columbusstate.edu/homecoming For more information, please visit https://alumni.columbusstate.edu/homecoming For more information, please visit alumni.columbusstate.edu/homecoming

ALUMNI SCENE 1. Brendle Moyer, B.A. ’18 and Morgan Bush, B.B.A. ’18 soaking up the sun at CSU Alumni Day Braves game.

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2. Future Cougar Piper and her dad, Josh Evans, B.S.Ed. ’12 enjoying CSU Alumni Day Braves game.

3. Board Member Jessica Ferriter, M.S. ’16, and husband Dan celebrating the closing of the First Choice Campaign during CSU’s Celebration of Support.

4. Jamie Lee, B.B.A. ’93, speaking during the Celebration of Support.

5. Mariana Money, B.A. ’86, Tim Money, B.B.A. ’86, Bill Huff, and Wade Burford, B.S. ’78 during the Celebration of Support.

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6. CSU alumni and friends having an authentic Greek dinner on Poros Island in Greece.

7.CSU alumni and friends entering the Island of Poros during their trip to Greece.

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8. Beth Stanton, B.S. ’99 and Linda Reynolds, B.S. ’99 during First Thursday at JarFly.

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ALUMNI SCENE

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10. Susanne Wilks, B.S. ’75 & M.Ed. ’91 and her husband, Tom Wilks, enjoying First Thursday at JarFly.

11. Peter Anderson, Andrew Anderson, B.S. ’16, Jaime Thames, and Alumni Association President, Ben Thames, B.B.A. ’97 at Wild Leap for the LaGrange Regional Alumni Event.

12. Carole Mashburn, Ed.S. ’09 and Carlie Hinson, B.B.A. ’16 & M.S. ’18 at Wild Leap for the LaGrange Regional Alumni Event.

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9. Jessica Drake, B.A. ’07 & M.P.A. ’10, Jessica Lange, M.S.N. ’15, and De’Ana Singletary, B.S.N. ’07 & M.S.N. ’15 enjoying First Thursday at JarFly.

13. Future Cougar Michael Carter and his parents, Breccia and Michael, Sr., enjoying their time at the Alumni Regional Event in Newnan.

14. Tower Tradition Recipients and now alumni of Columbus State during the Student Recognition Reception.

15. Sherril Lee, B.S.Ed. ’71 and husband, Stephen Lee at the Alumni Regional Event in Newnan.

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ALUMNI Q&A

CSU ALUMNI Q&A WITH PAUL YARWAYE

BY JOSH BECKER

It’s a long way from Liberia to Columbus. How did you find yourself in southwest Georgia?

Answer: My journey from Liberia to Columbus, Georgia, began during the horrible civil war in Liberia. The civil war started December 24, 1989, which put my family in a life-threatening situation. As the war began to intensify and we were at risk in getting food and medical care, we decided to walk on foot in an effort to leave the country. We were forced to pass through the rebel line since that was the only way in getting out. By doing so, we were faced with so many near-death experiences, but as God would have it, we walked approximately 100 miles to get to the border. At the border, we got on a bus that took us to Ghana to a Liberian refugees camp, where we lived for six years. It was there in the camp we got enrolled on the American Resettlement Program. We came to Columbus specifically because my sister, Benita Bloh, who filed for us through the Lutheran Church, lives in Columbus.

How did you come to enroll at CSU? Answer: After school in Liberia, it was my desire to go to college, but I had no way doing that because my parents are very poor and could not afford college fees and tuitions. But when I got to Columbus in 2005, I asked about the school situation, and after I got an explanation, I found out that door was opened for me to enter school — that is why I always state that “America opened the door, and I walked through it.” I started with Columbus Technical College, graduated with an associate degree and moved on to Columbus State University to finish up my first degree. Upon my graduation, I decided to enroll in graduate study for what I have in mind to do — to arm myself with management skills that would enable me to return home and bring safe drinking water along with food crops production to the community I am from. And I did just that. Now, I am working on a nonprofit in an effort to fulfill my plan.

You graduated with a bachelor’s degree in health sciences and a master’s in public administration. What inspired you to study these courses?

Answer: I was inspired to enroll in the master’s program because I have one important thing on my mind — and that is my country Liberia. In Liberia, we suffered many things even before the civil war, and the civil war doubled every situation we have been suffering from. The issue of health care is a prime concern for me

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in Liberia. We have no national health care program. One has to pay for treatment at the door of the emergency room or else no care at all. On top of that, we have no such thing as insurance companies in the country, and no health education for prevention or health promotion. We drink water from the streams, creeks, and ponds. This situation makes children as well as adults die from preventable diseases. Therefore, I wanted to get an education that will enable me to intervene and have some impact on the situation. At present, I am on the verge of doing a nonprofit to bring this to reality in the shortest possible time. This is a burden on my mind, and I will pursue this endeavor until the situation turns around at some acceptable level.

Are there any professors in particular that helped you to achieve success in your college career?

Answer: When I entered CSU, my first advisor was a fellow named Dustin Worsley, who is now my brother and friend. He advised me the best way he could, and I was successful with my first semester and he even taught me one of those courses.

He was very good to me to the extent that when I, at one time in a conversation with him, mentioned the issue of me being separated from my family. He suggested to me to visit his church and explain the situation to the congregation. That church is the Columbus Church of Christ on the north side of Columbus. This church, as God could have it, helped me at every level to get my family united. My wife, Doris, and my two boys, Reginald and Jared, were united with me. There are two other persons that I have to mention. Dr. Ellen Roberts helped me to get a student assistant job at the Provost’s office and also walked me through the master’s program with continual advice. I cannot forget Dr. Fredrick Gordon, who was the program chairman at the time I started the program. He was also instrumental in my success.

He encouraged me and made it seem so simple for me to go through the program. However, I’m thankful and grateful to all the professors. Under their watch, they made it possible for me to finish the program.

CSU is a place of friendly environment and where people always smile at me whenever I faced them or engaged them. I love CSU, and I will always remember and recommend the school to anyone who desires to pursue a college career. My fondest memories are people’s attitudes, administrators, professors, and even students at the help desk — everyone was willing to help me upon request. I am impressed with that, and I appreciate them so much.

UPCOMING EVENTS

MARK YOUR CALENDARS Visit Alumni.ColumbusState.edu and ColumbusState.edu/Calendar for a full list of alumni and campus events.

SEPTEMBER ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT — FIRST THURSDAY

September 5, 5–6:30 p.m.

For more information, visit alumni.ColumbusState.edu.

CSU DEPARTMENT OF THEATRE — CHARLOTTE’S WEB

September 5–8

at Riverside Theatre Complex.

For tickets and show times, visit columbusstate.edu/theatre.

COCA-COLA SPACE SCIENCE CENTER — ASTRONOMY NIGHT

September 7 at 7 p.m.

Stargazing and planet viewing at the center.

ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT — REGIONAL EVENT: ATLANTA

September 12, Noon–1:30 p.m.

Maggiano’s. For more information, visit alumni.ColumbusState.edu.

OXBOW MEADOWS — FAIRY FEST

September 14, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center.

at Riverside Theatre Complex.

For tickets and show times, visit columbusstate.edu/theatre.

COCA-COLA SPACE SCIENCE

COCA-COLA SPACE SCIENCE CENTER — ASTRONOMY NIGHT

Stargazing and planet viewing at FDR State Park.

Stargazing and planet viewing at the center.

WINTERFEST 2019

October 5 at 7 p.m.

OXBOW MEADOWS — OWLOWEEN

October 19, 6–9 p.m.

CENTER — ASTRONOMY NIGHT

November 16 at 6 p.m.

November 19 from 6–9 p.m. on main campus. More info at WinterFest.ColumbusState.edu.

Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center.

COCA-COLA SPACE SCIENCE CENTER — ASTRONOMY NIGHT

October 19 at 7:30 p.m.

Stargazing and planet viewing at Providence Canyon.

ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT — HOMECOMING

October 14–19

For more information, visit alumni.ColumbusState.edu.

DECEMBER CSU DEPARTMENT OF THEATRE — JINGLE ARRGH THE WAY! A “HOW I BECAME A PIRATE” CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE

December 4–8

at Riverside Theatre Complex.

For tickets and show times, visit columbusstate.edu/theatre.

COCA-COLA SPACE SCIENCE

NOVEMBER

CENTER — ASTRONOMY NIGHT

COCA-COLA SPACE SCIENCE CENTER — ASTRONOMY NIGHT

Stargazing and planet viewing at the center.

November 2 at 6 p.m.

December 7 at 6 p.m.

Stargazing and planet viewing at the center.

ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT —

COCA-COLA SPACE SCIENCE CENTER — ASTRONOMY NIGHT

ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT — FIRST THURSDAY

FALCONS

Stargazing and planet viewing at FDR State Park.

For more information, visit alumni.

ColumbusState.edu.

September 21 at 8 p.m.

CSU DEPARTMENT OF THEATRE — PETER AND THE STARCATCHER

September 27–29

at Riverside Theatre Complex.

For tickets and show times, visit columbusstate.edu/theatre.

OCTOBER CSU DEPARTMENT OF THEATRE — PETER AND THE STARCATCHER

October 3–5

November 7, 5–6:30 p.m.

CSU DEPARTMENT OF THEATRE — THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST

November 8–10, 14–16 at Riverside Theatre Complex.

For tickets and show times, visit columbusstate.edu/theatre.

OXBOW MEADOWS — FROGWARTS

November 9, 1–4 p.m.

Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center.

CSU DAY AT THE ATLANTA

December 8

For more information, visit alumni.ColumbusState.edu.

GRADUATION CEREMONY

December 13–14

at Lumpkin Center. Visit Graduation.ColumbusState.edu for more information.

OXBOW MEADOWS — HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

December 14, 1–5 p.m.

Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center.

CREATIVE TO THE CORE

Fall 2019

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4225 University Avenue Columbus, Georgia 31907-5645 Address service requested

Parents: If this issue is addressed to a son or daughter who no longer lives at home, please send the correct address to advancementservices@ColumbusState.edu Thank you.

Save the Date Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2019 • 6-9 p.m. at Columbus State University

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Columbus State

ALUMNI.COLUMBUSSTATE.EDU