Concord University Alumni Magazine (Fall 2011)

Homecoming 2011 Rotary Bowl

Champs!

Veterans Day Observances

Alumni

Summer Events

From the President’s Desk It is an exciting time for Concord University alumni! Not only do we have a brand new magazine highlighting the major events happening on campus and the many accomplishments of the Mountain Lion family but the number of opportunities to reconnect with other Concord graduates has increased significantly. The Advancement Team hit the road this summer hosting events in the Washington, D.C. area as well as all over southern West Virginia including Charleston, Lewisburg, Beckley and Princeton.

Alumni groups also met in New York City and in Myrtle Beach, S.C. We are particularly excited to announce that Concord has its first-ever international alumni chapter! A group of Concord graduates gathered in Tokyo in October for an evening of food and fellowship. Thanks to Dr. Joe Manzo for helping to organize this effort!

Be sure to stay connected with us through the Advancement Office.

We’ll be making announcements for future alumni events on our social networking sites as well as through the Concord web page and in our alumni magazine. We hope that more and more of you will plan to participate and continue to help the Advancement Office, under the leadership of Alicia Suka Besenyei, with its efforts in building a stronger alumni base!

Recently, U.S. News & World Report ranked Concord University the number one public institution in West Virginia in the Regional Colleges South category of its 2012 Best Colleges edition.

Concord is in the first tier of the Regional Colleges South and we are number Concord Alumni enjoy a day at 38 of the 99 institutions in the ballpark in Charleston this category. We are very excited with the ranking as Concord has consistently placed in the top tier of Best Colleges for the past seven years. Concord’s graduates play a significant role in this ranking. Many things are taken into consideration when developing the list including graduation rates, SAT and ACT scores, student to faculty ratios, retention rates and more. Part of the ranking is based on the alumni giving rate. Every time a Concord graduate joins the Alumni Association or the Mountain Lion Club or starts a scholarship in the Foundation or gives to a scholarship already in place, our alumni giving rate improves. We hope that you will keep that in mind as we move into the next evaluation year. Help keep Concord ranked as one of the best in the country!

We experienced another great homecoming at Concord. As you will see in pictures inside this magazine, Mountain Lion traditions continue to run strong. I was pleased to see so many people made it back to Athens to help us celebrate and it is my hope the crowds will continue to grow with each and every game this season!

Dr. Gregory F. Aloia Concord University President

Calendar of Events November 9, 2011

• Veterans Appreciation Ceremony

• 12:30 pm.

Front Lawn, Marsh Hall

November 10, 2011 • Concord University Foundation Charleston Dinner • 6:00 p.m. Reception • 7:00 p.m. Dinner Embassy Suites, Charleston, WV

November 11, 2011

• Remembrance Day National Roll Call

• 8:00 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Gazebo, Student Center

November 12, 2011 • Home Game Tailgate • Concord vs. West Virginia Wesleyan • 12 noon until halftime Callaghan Stadium

December 6, 2011 • Holiday Open House • 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

University Point

December 17, 2011

• Fall Commencement February 2, 2012

• Groundhog Day Breakfast April 10, 2012

• Debussy Trio

• Performing Artist Series Event

• 7:00 p.m.

• Fine Arts Theater April 13, 2012

• Athletic Dept. Elimination Dinner

• 7:00 p.m.

John & Lucia Pais Family Fellowship Hall

May 11, 2012 • Alumni Banquet

May 12, 2012

• Spring Commencement

July 13, 2012 • Athletic Dept. Golf Tournament Fountain Springs

Inside this Issue Fall 2011

On the Cover Representing Concord University’s alumni veterans at a pre-game ceremony on Homecoming Day, Sept. 24, is 2nd Lieutenant Jay White United States Marines. He graduated in Fall 2010 with a degree in social studies education.

Photo by Sarah Dalton

15 15 15

Homecoming 2011 Rotary Bowl

Champs!

12 12 12 25 25

Veterans Day Observances

Alumni

37 37 37

25

Summer Events

Dr. Gregory F. Aloia

Features

Alicia Besenyei

4

Convocation Welcomes Future Alumni Into the Concord Family

5

2011 Athens • Concord Town Social

Sarah Lively Turner '98

9

Road Dedications

President, Concord University Alumni Association

Dwight Barnette ‘80

12

Caperton to Keynote Concord University Scholarship Fund-raiser

12

Veterans Observances Planned on Concord Campus

Graphic Designer

Lance McDaniel ‘10

13

Planned Giving: Both Charity and Donor Can Benefit

Sarah P. Dalton

15

Homecoming

24

The State Fair Welcomes Concord

25

Alumni and Friends Reconnect at Summer Events

29

Childhood in Athens Forever Intertwined with Concord

37

Mountain Lions Outdistance 3rd-Ranked Shepherd Rams to win Rotary Bowl

41

Matchen, Pauley Named to Concord University Board of Governors

President Interim Vice President of Advancement Alumni Director

Project Coordinator Editorial Assistant

Amy Pitzer

Concord University Office of Advancement PO Box 1000 Athens, WV, 24712 1-304-384-6311 Fax: 1-304-384-6017 advancement@concord.edu www.concord.edu

Departments 3

Greetings from the CU Alumni Association

7

Mountain Lion Club, Inc.

11

Greetings from the CU Foundation, Inc.

31

Heritage & Horizon

33

Class Notes

37

CU Athletics

Greetings From...

The CU Alumni Association, Inc. Summer has retreated and fall is here. I hope everyone is enjoying the great weather.

In August, I attended the WV State Fair with the Alumni Association. We had quite a few visitors at the Concord booth. If you didn’t get a chance to stop by, don’t worry, we’re already planning on being there again next year.

Like most of you, I have been following the budget battles taking place in Washington. One of the proposals under consideration contained $70 billion in reductions over the next decade.

Education programs will in all probability be part of the steep cuts. Concord is almost certain to be burdened with reduced funds as a result. Please take time when you are planning your own budget to consider a donation for Concord to help alleviate this problem. The U.S. News & World Report higher education rankings place high emphasis on alumni giving rates. Simply joining the Alumni Association will help Concord’s ranking in this area.

Homecoming was a great time to be back on campus. We held the annual fall alumni banquet the Friday before the game. I enjoyed visiting with those of you who attended.

We are still trying to form new alumni chapters around the country and we need your help to do it.

Just contact us if you wish to join or start a chapter.

The alums you will meet may surprise you. In midJune I attended a cookout hosted by the Pine Trees Chapter. One of the speakers introduced an alum who had been his student teaching supervisor. It was at this moment that I realized she had been my ninth grade algebra teacher in 1972! We had a wonderful time that evening. So to Mrs. Brown I would like to say “thank you” for giving me a great foundation for my math studies.

Dwight Barnette ‘80 Alumni Association President barnette@vt.edu

Large crowds come out for the homecoming football game

Join Us Today!

CU Alumni Association Inc. Individual Membership Form

Basic $10 - 24.99

Captain’s Club $500 or more

President’s Club $150 - 249.99

Platinum Club $25,000 or more

Maroon & Gray Club $25 - 149.99 Benefactor’s Club $250 - 499.99 3

Life Membership $5,000 or more

I want to join!

Check a box and return this slip in the envelope provided with this magazine.

Please be sure to fill out your contact and payment information on the envelope inside this issue.

Convocation Welcomes

Future Alumni into the Concord Family

F

uture alumni of Concord University were welcomed to “The Campus Beautiful” on Monday, Aug. 22 during the Fall 2011 Freshman Convocation.

The 4 p.m. ceremony was held in the Alexander Fine Arts Center’s Main Theatre.

Faculty and professional staff marched in full regalia providing the freshman class a firsthand introduction to the pomp and circumstance of higher education.

Dr. Charles Grindstaff, associate professor of education, offered the convocation address. He told the incoming class that they were joining “one of the most renowned families in West Virginia and this region, the family of Concord.”

“This is one of the biggest transitions you’ll make,” he said.

“We will treat you as adults now…with this freedom comes responsibility. I invite you to embrace this change.”

“We’re going to challenge you, we’re going to stretch you,” he said.

Grindstaff also shared practical tips for success in college along with his words of reflection.

“Go to class, talk to the professors, get to know the professors, get involved with activities,” he said. “Make Concord University yours, a place you don’t want to leave.”

Following Grindstaff’s remarks, the freshman class learned the Concord University alma mater with help from the CU ConChords and Dr. Jim Shepherd, conductor.

The gathering recessed outside and then walked across campus to the front of the Jerry L. Beasley Student Center for the traditions tree planting ceremony.

Students and others in the campus community took turns pouring cups of soil around the roots of a small dogwood. The tree honors the incoming students of 2011.

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C

ampus and community marked the 25th year of the Athens-Concord Town Social Sunday, Aug. 14, 2011 with an afternoon of festivities and fun on the front lawn of Concord University.

Hundreds gathered for the “QuarterCentury Celebration” that included live music, craft vendors, free picnic food and children’s games.

Individuals, along with a local business, who have enhanced life in Athens and at Concord University, were honored during the afternoon.

The Athens Lions Club presented two awards. Athens Volunteer Fire Department Chief Stanley Harvey received the Outstanding Citizen of the Year honor in recognition of dedicated service. The Beautification Award went to June Rice and Bill Rice for the gardens surrounding their home in Athens.

Hundreds gathered for the “Quarter-Century Celebration”

The Athens-Concord Town Social Committee also handed out honors.

Frances Cooper Scyphers ’43 received the Elder Citizen Award. A lifelong resident of Athens, Scyphers was born 89 years ago, in a house across the street from the Concord campus.

The Total Community Involvement Award went to Carol Bard. A driving force behind many projects in the Town of Athens, Bard also travels on Concord’s study abroad trips with students and faculty as a chaperone.

Extra Miler awards were presented to husband and wife team Tom Davis ’68 and Carol Davis. Both are known as positive role models

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The Town Social offers a time of fun and entertainment on the front lawn of Concord University

and contributors in the Athens and campus communities.

The Business Longevity Award was given to Sue Smithson of Sue’s Perfect Image, a beauty shop in Athens. Concord University freshman Justin Gray received a Town Social scholarship.

Members of Concord University’s Student Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC) assisted with the children’s games.

Two popular area bands, The Midnight Ramblers String Band, an old-time group, and bluegrass band Ridgeline, entertained the crowd.

Concord University carillonneur Jesse Ratcliffe ’10 performed a live concert on the Marsh Memorial Carillon prior to the bands taking the stage.

And the winner is...

At left: Frances Cooper Scyphers ’43, Elder Citizen Award and Dr. Gregory Aloia.

Middle row, left to right: Carol Bard, Total Community Involvement Award and Dr. Aloia; Sue Smithson of Sue’s Perfect Image, Business Longevity Award and Dr. Aloia; Tom Davis ’68 and Carol Davis, Extra Miler Award and Dr. Aloia.

Bottom row, left to right: Concord University freshman Justin Gray, Town Social Scholarship, with Dr. Jonathan Berkey and Dr. Aloia; Athens Volunteer Fire Department Chief Stanley Harvey, Outstanding Citizen of the Year; and, June Rice and Bill Rice (not pictured), Beautification Award.

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Why we need your help…

• For facility upgrades • Scholarship dollars • To provide resources to attract and retain quality student-athletes and coaches Join the Mountain Lion Club team and help give Concord University’s student-athletes the competitive edge. Your support is vital to building a firm foundation for success.

What is the Mountain Lion Club, Inc.?

• Fund-raising foundation for Concord University Athletics

Our mission…

The mission of Concord University Athletics is to provide an atmosphere that fosters community service, scholarly activity, and liberal arts based education.

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Membership benefits: • Tax-deductible contribution • Automobile decal • Invitation to annual alumni and friends celebrations And, • Opportunity to open doors for student-athletes, bring recognition to Concord University, and provide entertainment for the region.

GRAY

MAROON

CHAMPION

$50

$75

$100

LEVEL 3

LEVEL 2

LEVEL 1

Season tickets to both Football and Basketball Invitation to Monthly Athletic Department Luncheon Season tickets to the sport of your choice Football or Basketball Invitation to Athletic Department Golf Tournament Invitation to Athletic Department Elimination Dinner Mt. Lion Club Member Auto Decal Membership in Mt. Lion Club Levels of Giving

ACCEPT THE 110% CHALLENGE Giving 110% is nothing new for Concord University’s student-athletes. It’s tradition in competition, academics, and community service.

Our student-athletes repeatedly answer the rally to go above and beyond. Now it’s your turn. Accept the Mountain Lion Club’s 110% Challenge!

Mountain Lion Club, Inc .

Membership Levels

Gray - $50 Maroon - $75 Champion - $100 Special Gift (Planned Giving)

I accept the challenge: You may return this slip in the envelope provided with this magazine.

Please be sure to fill out your contact and payment information on the envelope inside this issue.

Purpose and Amount Allocation: Your gift may be directed to one or more areas in the Mountain Lion Club. Please check your membership level above and enter the dollar amount for each gift in the box at right. If you have any questions, please contact Andrew Wright with the Mountain Lion Club at 304-384-5332 or via e-mail at mtlionclub@concord.edu.

Purpose

Amount

General Athletics Sport (write sport below):

Total Amount

$ $ $_________

Thank you!

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Road Dedications Resolutions passed by the West Virginia Legislature earlier this year designated portions of Route 20 near Athens, W.Va. as memorial roads in remembrance of two Concord alumni. A recognition ceremony was held at Concord on June 11, 2011 for the Senator Homer K. Ball Memorial Road. A similar ceremony took place at the University on June 25, 2011 for the Senator Don Caruth Memorial Road.

Don

Senator

Caruth The Honorable Donald T. Caruth '72 was born May 23, 1950, to William and Elizabeth Caruth.

He spent his youth in Athens, graduating from Athens High School and Concord. He earned the doctor of jurisprudence degree at the West Virginia University College of Law. Caruth served as executive director of West Virginia Career College, adjunct professor at Concord and Bluefield State College, and regional supervisor of Veterans’ Education and Training, West Virginia Department of Education. He was a partner with the Bluefield, W. Va law firm of Brewster, Morhous, Cameron, Caruth, Moore, Kersey and Stafford.

Caruth began his political career representing District 25 in the House of Representatives. He was elected to the Senate in 2004 and 2008, serving as Senate Majority Leader for the 78th Legislature. He was named Legislator of the Year by the West Virginia Business and Industry Council in 2008. Governor Joe Manchin presented Caruth with the Distinguished West Virginian Award in March 2010.

He worked with the New River Parkway Authority and the Children’s Home Society of West Virginia. He was a board member for the Athens Volunteer Fire Department and Athens Medical Center, and assisted the Athens Town Council as attorney and treasurer.

He was an active member of the Concord United Methodist Church, where he served as chairman of the church council, among many other committees.

Caruth was an accomplished musician.

He was dedicated to his wife, Laura, and his daughters Maria, Andrea, Christie, Allison and Madison. He passed away on May 1, 2010.

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Homer K. Ball Senator

The Honorable Homer K. Ball '48 was born in Lerona, W. Va. on October 15, 1924. He was the son of William Harvey and Sallie Keaton Ball and was one of seven children.

Ball was a graduate of Athens High School and Concord College. He also received his master's degree in Public Health from the University of Michigan.

He served in the U.S. Army during World War II in the Pacific Theater. He retired from Concord as Director of the Physical Plant and also served one term as Sheriff of Mercer County.

Ball lived a life of public service, serving in both the West Virginia House of Delegates and the West Virginia State Senate.

Ball was involved in a number of community activities. He was a member of the Concord Masonic Lodge No. 48, AF & AM, Chapter No. 26, Royal Arch Masons and the Athens Lions Club. He was a longtime supporter of the Pikeview Foundation, Pipestem Foundation and Concord University.

He also initiated the support for the creation of the McDowell Mission. Ball is remembered each year through the Homer K. Ball Memorial Scholarship Golf Tournament. The annual golf outing raises funds devoted to scholarships for Concord University students.

A longtime resident of the area, Ball was a faithful member of the Concord United Methodist Church. He was married for 54 years to Helen Blankenship Ball and had four children: Martha, Laura, Gregory and Phillip. He also had two grandchildren: Martha Claire and Jackson Henry. Ball passed away on August 21, 2008.

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Greetings From...

The CU Foundation, Inc. Dear Alumni and Friends,

As mentioned in the spring edition of this magazine, the Charleston Dinner of the Concord University Foundation will be held this fall. We are pleased to have a speaker who has made significant contributions to higher education and to the State of West Virginia.

W. Gaston Caperton III, president of the College Board, graciously agreed to present the keynote address at our dinner on Thursday, November 10, 2011 at The Embassy Suites in downtown Charleston.

Governor Caperton needs no introduction. He was a popular, two-term governor of the State of West Virginia from 1989 to 1997. Prior to serving as governor, he was chief executive officer of McDonough-Caperton Insurance. After leaving the governor’s office, he taught at Harvard and Columbia universities. In addition to his responsibilities at The College Board, Governor Caperton serves on the boards of directors of several publicly-traded corporations.

The Foundation dinners are a critical part of Concord’s exposure to important “markets.” The more people know about Concord, the more inclined they are to send students and to make donations to the development of the University.

Here is your chance to visit with friends and support the Foundation. The proceeds from the dinner will be used for scholarships. You can help grow this important endowment for those who want to “follow in your footsteps” and attend Concord.

Call Kerri Zaferatos, the executive director of the Foundation. She will be happy to sell you tickets, a table or discuss with you an opportunity to sponsor the event. Her direct dial number is 304-384-6056.

See you in November.

My regards,

David Kirby ’79 Chairman Board of Directors The Concord University Foundation, Inc.

U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT

RANKS CONCORD UNIVERSITY AMONG THE BEST REGIONAL COLLEGES IN THE SOUTH

Concord University has been named among the Best Regional Colleges South in the 2012 edition of U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges.

According to the report, Concord ranks as the number one public institution in West Virginia among Regional Colleges South and places fourth in the top five public schools in that category.

The annual publication, released Sept. 13, ranks Concord University in the first tier of the Regional

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Colleges South category. Of the 99 institutions in this category, Concord ranks 38. Concord has consistently placed in the top tier of Best Colleges for the past seven years and continues to improve in ranking criteria.

Schools are categorized by mission and location using the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

According to this classification system, undergraduate study is the primary focus at Regional Colleges.

The rankings are based on criteria that measure academic quality. Each institution is evaluated in areas such as graduation rate, SAT and ACT scores, and student/ faculty ratio. Peer assessment is used in the calculations as well.

Concord University has also been recognized by The Princeton Review as one of the “best in the southeast” in its 2012 edition.

Caperton to Keynote Concord University C

Scholarship Fund-raiser

ollege Board President and former West Virginia Governor Gaston Caperton will be the keynote speaker for the upcoming Concord University Foundation Charleston Dinner. The scholarship fund-raiser is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 10, 2011 at the Embassy Suites in Charleston. A reception will begin at 6 p.m. followed by dinner at 7 p.m.

Caperton served as governor of West Virginia from 1989 to 1997.

He was a fellow at the Institute of Politics at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government, and executive director of Columbia University’s Institute on Education & Government at Teachers College.

In recognition for his lifetime of leadership on education issues, Caperton has received numerous awards and 10 honorary degrees.

Concord University honored him

with the Doctor of Humanitarian Service, honoris causa in 2007.

Caperton was appointed to his current position in 1999. Under his leadership, the College Board has grown to become a leading advocacy organization dedicated to excellence and equity in education.

The College Board is a not-forprofit membership association founded in 1900 and made up of more than 5,700 educational institutions. Each year, the organization helps more than seven million students prepare for a successful transition to college through programs and services in college readiness and college success — including the SAT® and the Advanced Placement Program®.

In addition, the College Board’s Advocacy & Policy Center serves the education community through research and advocacy on behalf of

Veterans Day Observances

students, educators and schools.

To purchase tickets for the dinner contact Kerri Zaferatos, Concord University Foundation executive director, at zaferatosk@ concord.edu or 304-384-6056.

Individual seating, tables and sponsorships of the event are available.

planned on Concord campus The Concord University Office of Veterans Affairs is hosting two events in November that honor service by members of the United States military.

A Veterans Appreciation Ceremony will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 9. The event coincides with Veterans Day (Nov. 11) observances nationwide. The program will begin at 12:30 p.m. on the front lawn of Marsh Hall. U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall (W.Va.) is scheduled to be the keynote speaker.

Concord’s Veteran’s Committee will present the Veterans Advocate of the Year Award to Major General Allen E. Tackett, Retired WV National Guard.

Concord University is among the

top veteran friendly institutions of higher education in the country. The number of veterans and other military personnel attending Concord with assistance from the Post 9/11 GI Bill continues to grow.

Concord will also participate in the Remembrance Day National Roll Call on Veterans Day, Friday, Nov. 11.

The nationwide grass-roots effort honors American service men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice in Iraq and Afghanistan during the past decade and follows the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 tragedy.

Members of the Concord community will join volunteers at more than 100 colleges and universities across the nation in reading the names of the 6,200-plus casualties

of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF), now called Operation New Dawn.

Reading of the names on each campus will take nearly eight hours to complete as readers announce the names in chronological order.

Concord’s reading will be held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Gazebo near the Jerry L. Beasley Student Center.

A simultaneous nationwide moment of silence will be observed by all schools at 11 a.m. P.S.T. (2 p.m. at Concord). Organizers of the event hope to have students from at least one school in every state participate.

The community is invited to attend both of Concord’s Veterans Day observances

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Planned Giving:

Both charity and donor can benefit

H

ave you ever wanted to make a significant donation to a charity without incurring a major dent in your finances?

Fortunately, there are methods of giving that allow someone to make a difference in an organization they are passionate about without feeling an immediate effect on their wallet. Referred to as planned giving, these vehicles of giving can be beneficial to both the charity and the donor.

Concord University Foundation, Inc. has benefited from some of these methods of planned giving. All of these gifts which vest sometime in the future help to ensure Concord University will be able to serve the educational needs of the area for generations to come.

One of the most common methods of planned giving is a testamentary gift, or naming a charitable organization as a beneficiary of your estate through your last will and testament. You can leave a charity a specific dollar amount or percentage of your estate, a pecuniary bequest; or you can choose to leave the charity

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the remainder of your estate after some specific bequests have been made, a residual bequest. The disadvantage to a testamentary gift, is that wills are recorded in county courthouses and, therefore, public record. For privacy reasons, many donors choose one of the following methods of charitable giving instead.

Other popular means of planned giving are charitable annuity or uni-trusts which allow the donor to make a gift now but still retain

income for life or a set number of years. A Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT) is an irrevocable trust that pays an income stream to the donor or his/her designee.

Upon the death of the donor (or designee) or the fixed term of years, the remaining assets are distributed to the charity. There are two different types of CRTs: Charitable Remainder Uni-Trusts and Charitable Remainder Annuity Trust. The chief difference between the two types being that a uni-trust

payout is recalculated each year based on the market value while an annuity trust payout is calculated on the beginning balance when the trust is created and does not adjust.

At the time the trust is created, the donor will receive a charitable income tax deduction. This deduction will be based on several factors, such as, the length of the trust (donor’s lifetime or a set term of years) and the payout percentage.

There can also be gift tax consequences if the CRT is payable to someone other than the donor.

In an effort to refocus on this commonly overlooked method of charitable giving, the Concord University Foundation, Inc. is launching the Carillon Society, a planned giving club for benefactors of Concord University.

To fund the trust, donors typically contribute a highly appreciated, low income producing asset. The trustee can then sell the asset without paying capital gains tax and invest the proceeds to create more income. Frequently, the cash flow produced by the CRT is used to purchase life insurance to replace

the value of the asset used to fund the trust. This insurance policy can be made payable to the donor’s heirs so there is no loss of inheritance.

Less commonly used methods of planned giving involve the use of retirement plans and life insurance.

Naming a charity as the beneficiary of a retirement plan (401(k), IRA, etc.) can achieve significant tax savings while allowing the donor to still take distributions during his or her lifetime. While your retirement plan will still be includable in your gross taxable estate, your executor can take a charitable deduction in the same amount effectively removing the asset from your estate and possibly providing significant estate tax savings.

There are additional tax benefits to naming a charity as the beneficiary of your retirement plan as opposed to a surviving family member as distributions from a retirement plan will also be subject to income tax.

Life insurance can also be a useful means of planned giving.

There are several different options for leaving money to charity using life insurance which range from simply naming the charity as the beneficiary of the policy to transferring policy ownership to the charity. While there is no income tax savings for naming a charity the beneficiary of your life insurance, if you transfer actual ownership of the policy to the charity, you can take a charitable deduction in the amount of the policy cash value.

The final option, an IRA Charitable Rollover, is only available

Keeping Up With Concord

Social media has allowed people to keep in touch with individuals, groups and activities all across the globe and Concord is using some of these tools to keep its alumni connected to the university and each other. You can keep up with Concord through any (or all!) of the following outlets: Facebook— Concord University Alumni Association, Inc.

until December 31, 2011 unless it is extended by Congress. This option is available to IRA owners 70 ½ and older. In lieu of taking a regular Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) from an IRA, an IRA owner can elect to have an amount greater than or equal to their RMD amount transferred directly to the charity of their choice. This not only satisfies the IRA owner’s RMD requirement for the year but also no taxable income is recognized by the IRA owner as a result of the transfer.

Concord University Foundation, Inc. has benefited from some of these methods of planned giving. All of these gifts which vest sometime in the future help to ensure Concord University will be able to serve the educational needs of the area for generations to come. In an effort to refocus on this commonly overlooked method of charitable giving, the Concord University Foundation, Inc. is launching the Carillon Society, a planned giving club for benefactors of Concord University. Additional information on the launch of the Carillon Society will follow in future issues of the Concord University Alumni Magazine and on the Concord University website.

All of these planned giving strategies involve careful consideration and planning. Please seek guidance from your tax, estate planning and financial advisors.

Submitted by: Kerri Zaferatos, CFP Executive Director Concord University Foundation, Inc.

(Facebook changed the formats of their groups so if you were a member of the previous CUAA group you will need to “like” this new group.)

LinkedIn— Concord University Alumni group

Twitter— @CampusBeautiful We hope you will take advantage of each of these sites as a quick and easy way to keep up with

Concord!

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AND OUR STORY BEGINS...

Comic books, touchdowns, royalty, alumni back in town

Activities for alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends of the University packed Concord’s weeklong 2011 Homecoming celebration Sept. 19-24.

Theme for 2011 was “Comic Books.” Several contests built around the theme spotlighted student creativity and talent. Results from these competitions, along with a student election, determined who would wear the Homecoming Royalty crowns presented at halftime during the football game.

Fourteen candidates, representing Greek and other campus groups, vied for the royal titles.

Batman, Mario Brothers, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and other characters of comic book fame peered from billboards set up across campus. These student created works of art were judged as part of the competition. Candidate groups campaigned from tables on the front lawn and in the Jerry L. Beasley Student Center offering voters candy and other giveaways.

During the annual Homecoming Parade, candidates and members of their organizations displayed comic book themed floats, banners and costumes for the judges. With a

HOMECOMING PARADE

6 p.m. start, the parade traveled down Vermillion Street in Athens on Thursday, Sept. 22.

Concord’s national track & field champion Shawnee Carnett

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served as the grand marshal. After the parade Concord homecoming tradition continued with a bonfire in the Valley.

Outlandish costumes, energizing music and intricate dance steps wowed the crowd at the Annual Lip Sync Contest. The entertaining extravaganza packed the main gym of the Carter Center on Friday, Sept. 23. The competition got underway at 8 p.m.

Alumni share advice

Alumni participants in CAREER SYMPOSIUM the Career Symposium are front row, left to right: Nell Jeffries ’53, Meleah Fisher ’94, Justina Mullins ’05, Reed Flinn ’06, Megan Flinn ’07, Kristen Thomason ’10 and Megan Parker ’06. Second row: Rebecca Jones ’88 and Harshit Agarwal ’04.

Third row: Andrew Metz ’08, Terri Martin ’01, Chris Meadows ’09, Francis Nzeuton’97, Jennifer Van Mullekom ’94 and Edwin Bennett ’94. Fourth row: Scott Deaner ’02, Katie Ickes ’83, Peggy Graham ’84, Jane Congdon ’66, Jessica Cook ’08 and David Richmond ’10. Back row: Roy Grimes ’74, Robert Smith ’01, Mark Wills ’77, Robert Gallione ’68, Robert Cook ’06 and Donald Boland ’05. Other participants not pictured: Jessica Adams ’11, Chris Bame ’01, Sarah Begg ’10, Christopher Day ’10, Marsha Edwards ’07, Steve Ferris ’79, Charles Green ’10, Mary Harman ’11, Laura Helton ’03, Larry Ickes ’83, Jessica Laffrey ’08, Christy Elliott-McGinnis ’04, Corrie McKee ’08, Michelle Moore ’08, Robby Moore ’03, Doug Mullins ’94, Justina Mullins ’05, Mika Pierson ’09, Allen Schurdell ’10, Amber Stover ’02, Tammie Toler ’99 and Carl Wilson ’87.

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Forty-six alums returned home to “The Campus Beautiful” on Friday, Sept. 23 to participate in the 3rd annual Career Symposium.

To get the day started, alums were treated to a hearty country breakfast at University Point followed by welcoming remarks from President Gregory F. Aloia, Interim Vice-President of Advancement Alicia Besenyei and Director of Career/Advancement Services Tammy Monk.

Next on the agenda was the Career Exploration Fair in the ballroom of the Jerry L. Beasley Student Center and panel discussions in regularly scheduled classes. Participants shared stories with students about their time at Concord and provided advice on how to best prepare for today’s job market. The symposium and fair also offered time to reconnect with former classmates and faculty and network with other alums.

Event organizers are always looking for ways to grow this program, generally held the Friday before homecoming. If you would be interested in participating in next year’s symposium, please email careerservices@concord. edu. Information for the 2012 program will be distributed next summer.

JANE CONGDON

Alum holds book signing

“I was a girl who loved Dracula.

I couldn’t tell why I was drawn to it, but I was,” author and Concord alum Jane Congdon told the group gathered in the President’s Room of the Marsh Library.

Congdon ’66 was on campus Sept. 23 for a book signing and presentation on her just released memoir “It Started with Dracula: The Count, My Mother, and Me” and to participate in the 3rd annual Career Symposium/Career Exploration Fair.

Her appearance at Concord, she said, was her “first organized signing.”

Congdon fell in love with Count Dracula as a 13-year-old at the movies. This fascination led her to Dracula’s homeland in Transylvania where she visited Bucharest, the Carpathian Mountains and the Black Sea. The trip triggered decadesburied memoires of life with an alcoholic mother that set in motion a life changing inner journey. On the journey, she revisits her childhood and ultimately finds new happiness.

Congdon said “It Started with Dracula” is “two stories woven together.” Her first intention for the book, she said, was for it to be a “travelogue” of her journey to Romania. “I had one purpose. I wanted to find out what the land of Dracula was really like,” she said.

But when she traveled to Transylvania, the landscape and surroundings reminded her of West Virginia and her childhood growing up there.

“It (childhood) inserted itself into the story and asserted itself along the way,” she said. “That little girl who had loved Dracula…was along for the ride.”

In the deeply personal book, Congdon shares glimpses of her childhood through movie references and real encounters with her mother.

Congdon grew up in the southern West Virginia community

THE FUN CONTINUES...

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of Glen Ferris. After graduating from Concord, she taught school in Bluefield, W.Va. and worked as a reporter for the Bluefield Daily Telegraph and Sunset News Observer.

Following a 30-year career in educational publishing in Cincinnati, Ohio, she retired in 2009. She continues to live in the Cincinnati area.

Congdon is a member of West Virginia Writers and a veteran of writing workshops including the Split Rock Arts Program at the University of Minnesota and the October Writing Festival at Ghost Ranch in New Mexico. She is a member of the Transylvanian Society of Dracula.

Visit http://www.janecongdon. com/home.htm to learn more about Congdon and her book.

Gathering part of celebration

ALUMNI BANQUET

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The annual Homecoming Banquet was held on Friday, Sept.

23. The reception began at 5 p.m. in the Alumni Lounge in the Jerry L. Beasley Student Center and the banquet began at 6 p.m. in the Student Center Ballroom.

State Senator Mark Wills ’77 was the featured speaker. A Princeton, W.Va. attorney, he holds a juris doctor degree from the West Virginia University College of Law. Wills told the room of fellow alums and Concordians that his Concord education has served him well. “I am very proud to be a Concord graduate,” he said. “When I went to law school, I was very proud.”

Wills represented Mercer County in the West Virginia House of Delegates serving for two terms from 1999 through 2003. He was elected to the West Virginia Senate in 2010 (representing District 10) to serve the unexpired term of the late Senator Don Caruth ’72.

In his remarks, President Gregory Aloia spoke of the “wonderful Mountain Lion family” that includes student-athletes recently recognized

for their sportsmanship; a campus culture ranking nationally as veteran friendly; and alumni sharing their career knowledge with students at a symposium held earlier that day.

Three Concord alumni brought their jazz group to the stage and provided entertainment during the reception and dinner. The Chris Oxley Quartet includes drummer George Campbell; Chris Oxley ’98 on tenor saxophone; keyboardist Robert A. Burnside, Jr. ’70; and David Burnside ’10 on stand-up bass. The Quartet’s vocalist, Jane E. Harkins, rounds out the band’s mix of traditional and contemporary jazz.

LIP SYNC

Tailgates, crowns and championship rings

Victory reigned in the autumn air on “The Campus Beautiful” as Concord University celebrated Homecoming 2011 on Saturday, Sept. 24 with triumph on the football field and an afternoon of festivities.

The Mountain Lions squashed the West Virginia State University Yellow Jackets 38-7. The win was the first before HONORING A CHAMPION the home crowd for new head football coach Garin Justice and put Concord on the books as 2-2 for the season and 2-0 in WVIAC play.

Tailgates in the parking lots near the football field offered a place for friends to gather before the big game.

Groups hosting tailgates National Track & Field Champion Shawnee Carnett is include Concord’s honored at a pre-game ceremony with a championship Advancement Office, ring (right) and a banner that’s being displayed in the Concord University the main gym of the Carter Center (left.) Carnett’s Alumni Association victory in the women’s 800 meter at the NCAA Division (CUAA) and the Pine Trees II Track & Field Outdoor National Championships in Chapter of the CUAA. May 2011 secured Concord’s first-ever NCAA national Alumni, students, championship. Her victory is also the first in women’s faculty, staff and other track and field for the West Virginia Intercollegiate friends in the Concord Athletic Conference since the conference moved from the community packed the NAIA to the NCAA in 1994.

HOMECOMING PRE-GAME

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BACK IN THE SPOT LIGHT

Concord’s 1961 Homecoming Queen Jean Wright Smith ’63 and her husband, Don Smith ’63, cheer on the Mountain Lions at this year’s Homecoming game. Fifty years ago, Don, who played football for Concord, escorted Jean in the coronation ceremony. They were recognized this year during a pre-game program.

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stands at Callaghan Stadium on a fall day just made for football. Moments of brilliant sunshine mixed with shade from the clouds and the rain stayed away.

A pre-game ceremony, prior to the 2 p.m. kickoff, honored current Mountain Lions and alumni athletes. National Track & Field Champion Shawnee Carnett received her championship ring. A banner saluting Carnett’s victory was unveiled during the ceremony and will be hung in the Carter Center’s main gym at Concord.

Also honored were the 2001 WVIAC Championship Baseball Team and the 2011 WVIAC Championship Baseball Team.

Championship rings were presented to the 2011 team.

Concord’s 1961 Homecoming Queen Jean Wright Smith ’63 of Bellfast, Va. was recognized along with her husband, Don Smith ’63.

Fifty years ago, Don, who played football for the Mountain Lions, escorted Jean in the Homecoming ceremonies.

Alumni veterans and currently enrolled student-veterans joined the PikeView JROTC Color Guard to present the colors prior to the game.

The Mountain Lion Pride Marching Band performed the national anthem and entertained with a halftime show.

Concord University’s 2011 Homecoming Royalty, crowned in the halftime coronation ceremony, are Shannan McKnight from Lochgelly, W.Va. representing Delta Zeta and Robert Vess Furey from Glen Daniel, W.Va. representing Tau Kappa Epsilon.

First runners-up are Megan Godfrey from Rock, W.Va. representing CU ELITE Dance Team and Casey Stanley from Ravenswood, W.Va. representing Chi Omega Psi. Second runners-up are Erica White from Kenna, W.Va. representing Bonner Scholars and Felix Riba from Bellaterra, Spain representing International Club.

Concord University President Gregory F. Aloia, First Lady Mary Aloia and Dr. Marjie Flanigan, vice president for student affairs and dean of students, took part in the

coronation along with Concord’s 2010 Homecoming Royalty Adam Pauley and Anne Endres.

The court also includes: Alisha Newcomb representing Alpha Sigma Tau and Joshua Gelinas representing Sigma Tau Gamma; Dessa Howaniec representing Alpha Sigma Alpha and Jeff Miller representing Phi Sigma Phi; Tiffany Duvall-Gilbert representing Nu Zeta Chi and Bryan Martin representing Lambda Iota Gamma; and, Grace Hurney representing Sigma Sigma Sigma and Sam Foreman representing Pi Kappa Phi.

ROYALTY

Mountain Lions squash Yellow Jackets 38-7

Football, as just about anyone who follows the game will tell you, is a game of four quarters. But sometimes a game’s outcome can be decided in just one.

Concord’s football team broke open a scoreless tie with a an explosive 24-point 2nd quarter, and rode that outburst to a 38-7 victory over WVIAC foe West Virginia State at Callaghan Stadium.

The victory, in front of a capacity crowd on Homecoming Saturday, improved CU to 2-0 in the conference and 2-2 overall.

Both teams had opportunities to score early, but each offense saw its first possession end on missed 4th down conversions. The Yellow Jackets’ second drive also ended on a 4th down play, this time an interception in the end zone by CU senior safety Aaron Martinez.

Concord went on a 10-play, 80yard drive which ended on Chris Rodriguez’s three-yard touchdown run.

West Virginia State went threeand-out on its next possession, and Riyahd Richardson returned the punt 42 yards to the Yellow Jackets’ six-yard line. A penalty pushed CU back five yards, but two plays later Zack Grossi completed a ten-yard touchdown pass to Ryan Stewart that pushed the Concord lead to 14-0.

CU’s defense forced State into another three-and-out on its next

Celebration surrounds Shannan McKnight and Robert Vess Furey, Concord’s 2011 Homecoming Royalty. McKnight, from Lochgelly, W.Va., represented Delta Zeta and Furey, from Glen Daniel, W.Va., represented Tau Kappa Epsilon. They received their crowns in a halftime coronation ceremony at the homecoming football game.

(First row, left to right) First runners-up are Megan Godfrey, CU ELITE Dance Team and Casey Stanley, Chi Omega Psi. Second runners-up are Erica White, Bonner Scholars and Felix Riba, International Club.

The court also includes: Alisha Newcomb, Alpha Sigma Tau and Joshua Gelinas, Sigma Tau Gamma; (Second row, left to right) Dessa Howaniec, Alpha Sigma Alpha and Jeff Miller, Phi Sigma Phi; Tiffany Duvall-Gilbert, Nu Zeta Chi and Bryan Martin, Lambda Iota Gamma; and, Grace Hurney, Sigma Sigma Sigma and Sam Foreman, Pi Kappa Phi.

THE GAME!

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TO BE CONTINUED IN 2012...

possession. The Mountain Lions drove 40 yards to the Jackets’ seven, setting up a 24-yard field goal by John Scritchfield for a 17-0 lead.

West Virginia State came back with long drive, but the 12-play, 51yard march ended on an incomplete pass on 4th-and-2 and the Concord 21 with just 1:01 left before halftime.

Two Grossi passes fell incomplete, but on 3rd down the quarterback found Stewart on a pass to the right, and the freshman wideout weaved his way for a breathtaking 79-yard touchdown pass that electrified the near-sellout crowd and lifted Concord to a 24-0 lead with only :39 left in the half.

The Mountain Lions ran 24 offensive plays for 178 yards in the pivotal 2nd quarter and scored on all four of their possessions.

West Virginia State spoiled Concord’s shutout bid on a fouryard TD pass from Ricky Phillips to Robert Jackson with 6:19 to go in the 3rd quarter.

But the Mountain Lions came right with an eight-play, 66-yard drive, capped by a one-yard scoring run by Brian Kennedy that made the score 31-7.

Grossi and Stewart connected for their third TD of the day – a 12-yard pass – to close out the scoring with 8:11 remaining in the game.

Concord’s offense piled up a season-high 570 yards on 75 plays.

Grossi completed 22 of 39 passes for 375 yards and three touchdowns; all the TDs went to Stewart, who finished with seven receptions for 177 yards. Kennedy posted 230 yards of total offense. He rushed for 127 yards on 19 carries, including a touchdown, and caught five passes for 93 yards.

The Mountain Lions defense forced four takeaways, including interceptions by Martinez, Joe Greenway and Josh Clark. Greenway topped CU with 16 tackles, including three tackles for loss and one sack.

Carlton Downs added ten tackles, including a TFL. Jake Lilly had nine tackles and Zach Gibbins eight.

CU

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C

oncord University set up shop at the State Fair of West Virginia in Fairlea Aug. 12-20, 2011.

University representatives staffed the CU tent located behind the grandstand each day from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Alumni volunteers, the advancement team and other members of the campus community answered questions, handed out literature and chatted with fair goers including a number of alums.

Theme for the 2011 State Fair was “It’s All Here.” The fair has been named a Top 100 Event by the American Bus Association.

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Reconnect @ Alumni & Friends

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Summer Events

he Advancement team hit the road this summer hosting alumni events across southern West Virginia and in the nation’s

capital.

First stop was the Washington, D.C. area on July 16 for a social at GolinHarris Media Training Center in Arlington, Va. An event packed August began with a gathering in Lewisburg at Bella Casa on Aug. 5.

Next, Calacino’s Pizzeria in Beckley served as the location for a social on Aug. 8.

Fun at the ballpark rounded out the season. The team hosted a picnic on Aug. 11 at Appalachian Power Park in Charleston to watch the West Virginia Power. Then, it was on to Hunnicutt Field in Princeton on Aug. 25 for CU Night with the P-Rays.

DC

Princeton

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Concord reunion held in

North Myrtle Beach, Charleston

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South Carolina

oncord alumni and friends from throughout the East Coast met in North Myrtle Beach, S.C. to celebrate the Summer of 2011. The gathering was hosted

by Ted and Jean Shepherd, Tom and Bonnie Bary and Tony and Debbie Basconi.

During the extended August weekend, a picnic and golf tournament were held at the

Legends Country Club and a dinner party and breakfast social were held at the Barefoot Landing Country Club. Special recognition was given to Joanie and George Thoman, residents of the Florida Keys, for their generous donation of hats and shirts for the comedy night activity.

Submitted by: Robert J. Gallione, Jr. ’68

Lewisburg

(Above) CU alumni and friends gather in North Myrtle Beach.

(Below) The group shows off prizes won at the comedy night.

Photos by George Thoman 26

Concord

Child Development Center serves community

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oncord University and models best practice in early has a licensed Child childhood education to serve the Development Center (CDC) children, families, faculty, staff, and on campus. The university students of Concord University and operated the center in surrounding communities. The partnership with Community Action center currently serves children of Southeastern West Virginia and ages three months to 13 years. The in July of 2011, CDC is open Monday committed to through Friday from independently 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. For operating the more information facility. The CDC, on enrollment located in the South procedures, please CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER contact the center.

Tower, is open to serve Concord If you have a heart students and affiliates, as well as for young children and ideas for members of the local community creating opportunities to help the The vision for Concord University center gain national recognition and Child Development Center is to accreditation through the National provide a high quality, active Association for the Education of learning laboratory that develops Young Children, please contact

one of the directors below. With community collaboration and partnerships, we will build a brighter future for the children of Concord University’s Child Development Center.

Florence Sargent – Director sargentf@concord.edu Telephone: (304) 384-5386

Cathryn Jarrell – Executive Director jarrellc@concord.edu Submitted by: Concord University Child Development Center

RECEIVES PROFESSIONAL FRATERNITY ASSOCIATION AWARD Concord University Director of Human Resources Marshall Campbell is recipient of the Professional Fraternity Association’s (PFA) Faculty Advisor Award of Excellence for 2011. The award was presented on Friday, Sept. 9, 2011 at the PFA annual conference in San Mateo, Calif.

Campbell was nominated by the national office of the law and prelaw fraternity Phi Alpha Delta (PAD).

He has been one of the advisors of Concord University’s PAD chapter since 2003. Concord competes in the fraternity’s national mock trial competition every November and has placed either first, second or third six times in the last six years.

He was also a member of PAD’s Pre-Law Advisory Council from 2007 to 2010. The Pre-Law 27

Advisory Council is the steering committee for the pre-law portion of PAD. Campbell received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Houston. An attorney, he is an adjunct professor at Concord University.

Phi Alpha Delta is a member of the Professional Fraternity Association. PFA represents over 100,000 undergraduate and graduate students on over 1,000 campuses across the nation. It supports 30 fraternal member groups to preserve high standards on campus and in professional practice and about 40 associate

Marshall Campbell, center, is shown at the PFA annual conference with Phi Alpha Delta Director of Pre-Law Operations Byron K. Rupp, left, and Phi Alpha Delta Executive Director Andrew D. Sagan, right

members. Its members’ groups have initiated 2.5 million members in professional fields such as agriculture, business, engineering, law, medicine, music, nursing and pharmacy.

New

McDaniel

Assignments

Flanigan

Dillon

Dr. Marjie Flanigan of Princeton has been named Concord University Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students. She officially began her duties July 1, 2011.

Flanigan received a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling from the University of Florida. She holds a doctorate of education in counseling from Virginia Tech.

“I am humbled to be given the honor to serve Concord as Vice President for Student Affairs,” Flanigan said. “I look forward to working with our students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and community members to provide service and learning opportunities for our students. Concord has a strong, caring Student Affairs staff and I look forward to continuing our teamwork, assisting students.”

Flanigan has worked at Concord since 1996. She served as Director of Student Support Services for 12 years. Most recently, she has been Director of Retention, Interim Vice President for Student Affairs and directed the work of the Academic Success Center.

“While acting as the Interim Vice President for Student Affairs, Dr. Flanigan has also done an excellent job as the Director of the Academic Success Center,” President Gregory F. Aloia said. “We anticipate continued positive strides for Concord under her effective leadership.”

Rick Dillon of Athens has been appointed Concord University Vice President of Administration and Associate Dean of Students.

In this role, he will serve as the Vice President responsible for the Maintenance/Physical Plant, Dining Services, the Office of Public Safety, and the Special Events Office. As Associate Dean of Students, he will assist the Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students on student affairs matters, will oversee Housing and Residence Life, and will provide advice and direction to Disability Services.

“Rick Dillon has served the University well in many capacities including residence life and the physical plant. He brings a great deal of experience, wisdom, and dedication to his new position and we look forward to his continued leadership President Gregory F. Aloia said.

Dillon received a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration from Mansfield University of Pennsylvania and a master of education degree with a concentration in counseling from Salisbury State University. He has completed additional graduate coursework in sociology at Southern Connecticut State University.

Dillon has worked at Concord since 1998. He has served as Director of Housing & Residence Life, Interim Dean of Students, and Director of Facilities & Residence Life.

NAMED VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT AFFAIRS, DEAN OF STUDENTS

JOINS ADVANCEMENT OFFICE TEAM

APPOINTED VICE PRESIDENT OF ADMINISTRATION, ASSOCIATE DEAN OF STUDENTS Lance McDaniel has joined the staff of the Concord University Advancement Office as a graphic designer. He began working in the Advancement Office on a contract basis in September 2010. He was hired by the University as a full-time employee in June of this year.

A native of southwest Virginia, McDaniel graduated from Concord in May 2010, summa cum laude.

He received a bachelor’s degree in graphic design and a bachelor’s degree in studio art.

Along with excelling in academics, he achieved acclaim as a student-athlete. He holds the track and field school record in the 3000 Meter Steeple Chase and was part of the 2007 Concord Men’s WVIAC Cross Country Championship team. McDaniel designed the new admissions logo while attending Concord and was a Bonner Scholar.

“Lance’s talents as a graphic designer are outstanding,” Concord University Interim Vice President of Advancement Alicia Besenyei said.

“His work has added a new flair to Concord’s printed materials. We’re fortunate he’s stayed at his alma mater to practice his craft.”

“I am very blessed to be doing what I love to do in a place I love to be,” McDaniel said. “I’m excited to be a part of the advancement of this wonderful institution.”

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Childhood in Athens

Forever Intertwined With Concord

By Neta Fern White Thorn ’65

I consider myself the luckiest person in the world to have enjoyed my childhood in Athens, West Virginia influenced always, by my interactions with Concord College.

My earliest memory of the college was when I was three years old. I was small enough to ride in the front seat of the car, standing beside my father. We were on our way to pick up my grandfather, Quincy Dean White, who worked as a cook in the cafeteria at the women’s dorm.

This was my first time to be on campus and I couldn’t wait to see it. Every time I visited any of my relatives and asked where someone was, they would always answer, “at the college.”

Several aunts, cousins, and my father, Q.D. White, had attended Concord. It was dark as we drove through the small student parking lot. There was my grandfather, standing in front of a wooden basement door in the glow of a light bulb. So this was that great place that everyone visited? Needless to say, I was disappointed, but my first impression was soon forgotten as my world began to expand and become a part of “The Campus Beautiful.”

I looked forward to the weekends because my great aunt, Verlie, would take my sister, Kay, my 29

great grandfather, Greeley White, and me to the basketball games at Concord. The gym stood between the faculty parking lot and where is now University Point. We sat in the balcony, right above the basket on the western end of the bleachers. We were not allowed to move around during the games so by the third quarter, we were usually lying on a pile of coats sound asleep.

Eventually the time came to enter the first grade at Concord Training School. Student teachers were trained here, in our classrooms, every semester.

The future teachers, who took educational psychology, were sent to the fourth and fifth grades to do case studies.

Well, I soon learned that the student who was observed would get a home visit, a coke at Bradley’s Drug Store and maybe a free movie at the local theatre.

Those of us who had no pride (or maybe too much) worked hard for the privilege of being interviewed. I planned my approach early. First, I had to get their attention, so I would walk by their desk, smile and maybe speak. A side glance every 15 minutes eventually would indicate to me, who they were observing, as they looked at individual students and took notes. By lunch time, we usually knew who had been

selected. I enjoyed several home visits, one movie and some cokes at Bradley’s. Now as I reflect on how we all competed to be the case study, I would love to read those observations that recorded our many antics in order to be “the chosen one.”

Every year on May 1st, the college celebrated May Day. One year my sister and I were invited to participate in the May Pole Dance.

This event took place in the valley.

The student union, where it is now, did not exist. A beautiful stand of pine trees grew there instead.

Citizens of the town and college families would sit on the hillside and watch the coronation of the May Queen and the dance. One year, my mother, Ennis White, made me a beautiful lavender dress of organdy and lace. Kay’s dress was bright red. We wore white lace socks and black patent leather shoes.

Everyone watched as we wound our rainbow-colored ribbons in, under and around the pole. I was always so happy that no one tripped and our ribbons never tangled.

After school ended for the summer, the college pool became my favorite place to hang out. The pool stood where the parking lot is now, beside the fine arts building across from the stadium parking lot. Mr. Kyle was always at the front door to take our 15 cents, which gave us the privilege of swimming from 1:00 to 2:30. The dressing room consisted of one large concrete room with lockers and one shower in a stall that was damp and slick. We had to be very careful not to slip and

fall, as we ran up the steps to take our first plunge in the pool. I spent my first two summers in the four foot section and eventually built up enough nerve to jump off the high dive. It was an indoor pool, so everything echoed. If underwater, when someone dove from the board, I could hear a loud metallic sound, followed by a slow rumble. I soon got used to it and spent many good times there swimming with my friends.

Since I only lived a mile from the college, Kay and I were allowed to walk to the college each day for our swim and we anticipated our trip back just as much because we got to stop at the student union and buy ice cream. The student

campus because it was always a hot day and we felt so cool. First of all, we had our ice cream to enjoy, our hair was wet and dripping down our back, and we could stroll through the pines which reached from the girls’ dorm to the library. Our ice cream lasted until we were almost to where the post office is now.

I always looked forward to two October events in Athens - the homecoming parade and the street carnival. When we were very small, my mother wouldn’t let us leave the house until we heard the fire siren clearing the streets to let us know the parade was starting. It was held first, in Princeton and then rushed to Athens and lined up again in front of Basil Shumate’s and Perry

costumes and prizes were given to the winners of various categories.

There were vendors from the schools and different organizations in town, apple bobbing, and a contest for a Halloween Queen - one penny per vote. As a small child the most exciting event was the appearance of the Phi Delta Pi. They approached the carnival from the direction of the college, in a convertible with the headlights off. The officers rode in the car with the inductees walking on either side of it. This was the night of their initiation. They appeared out of the darkness. A drummer walked in front tapping out a very slow cadence. On the hood of the car were placed two or three

(Left to right) Concord students enjoy a dip in the college pool; Fern Thorn attends the 2011 Homecoming Alumni Banquet; sister Kay as Homecoming Queen in October of 1964

union was in the basement of the ad building under the auditorium.

We approached it by way of the baseball field, which is now the front lawn of the fine arts building.

As we opened the two big double doors and descended down the wide concrete steps, there was always a cool rush of air to meet us. I could hardly see through the blue haze of cigarette smoke that permeated the lounge where the students sat, playing cards, chatting, listening to the music blaring from the jukebox, reading or sleeping.

We were headed to the snack bar to get our ice cream cone, which was a daily ritual that made the walk back home so much more inviting. Our heads were just even with the top of the counter, where I paid for my lemon cone and Kay paid for her raspberry. I enjoyed the walk across

Martin’s filling stations. People were lined all the way up State Street and Vermillion Street. The floats were on large flat bed trucks decorated by each sorority, fraternity, religious group and athletic team. In October of 1964, Kay got to ride on one of the floats as Homecoming Queen.

There were many bands from all the surrounding areas and lots of clowns. I stood in front of White’s Cash Store, which is now the town hall, with my grandmother, uncle, and aunt, who owned the store, and the rest of my neighbors. There was no candy thrown from the parade just lots of happy memories.

A few weeks later, the town held their annual street carnival. The street was blocked off from the bank to where Homer Ball’s store used to be beside the present post office.

Adults and children dressed up in

hideous looking jack-o’-lanterns. I anticipated their appearance with fear and anxiety but couldn’t wait to see them. For several years I thought they appeared at the carnival because their colors were orange and black.

As I left grade school and entered high school, there were many other positive ways that Concord University entered my life and filled it with intrigue and wonderment.

My early memories of living in Athens and also being a part of Concord can never be separate but always intertwined. I never once questioned if I would go to college.

I knew I would attend and graduate from Concord when I saw my grandfather standing by the wooden door in the glow of the light. At that moment, I felt my destiny.

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Heritage & Horizon

Frances Cooper Scyphers and her Alma Mater Are Lifelong Neighbors

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rances Cooper Scyphers and Concord University have been good neighbors for nearly a century.

Mrs. Scyphers, 89, was born across the street from Concord’s campus and has lived in Athens since. “I was born here. I’ve lived here all my life. It’s always been special to me,” she said.

Mrs. Scyphers’ lifelong contributions to the university and town resulted in her receiving the Elder Citizen Award at the 25th Athens-Concord Town Social in August.

The annual event was held on Concord’s front lawn.

Mrs. Scyphers has fond words for the place she’s always called home. “I like Athens and Concord,” she said “They’ve always meant so much to me the town and the college.”

Frances graduated from Athens High School in 1940. She stayed in town for her college education and graduated from Concord State Teachers College (now Concord University) in 1943. She received a degree in teaching.

Attending Concord was tradition in her family. Her parents, Fred Cooper and Pearl Preston Cooper, both graduated from Concord. Her brother and sister did as well. “It’s always been a family thing,” she said. Fred Cooper served as president of the Bank of Athens for many years.

In describing Frances the college student, Mrs. Scyphers said “I was a joiner.” As a Delta Sig, Greek life was an important part of her college days, she said. “At that time, the sorority meant so much,” she recalled. Her sorority was the forerunner of Concord’s current Delta Zeta.

After graduation, Frances taught home economics and biology at Wade School in Bluefield for one year.

With her sweetheart Guy Scyphers home from World War II, her life as a wife, mother and homemaker began.

(Mr. Scyphers graduated from Concord in 1946.) The couple had two daughters, Susie and Giny. Guy, like his father-inlaw, became a bank president in Athens. Frances and Guy were married for 63 years until he passed away five years ago.

The family has grown to include three granddaughters, one grandson, a great-great grandson and a great-great granddaughter.

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Mrs. Scyphers says her daughters are her traveling companions. “We travel together a lot,” she said. “My main hobby is travel.”

In recent years, her adventures have included a three week tour of Europe; a drive up the New England coast into Canada; a visit to quaint Cape May in New Jersey and an excursion to Long Island, N.Y. and the Hamptons.

An avid reader, she enjoys attending the book club at Princeton Public Library. She also keeps up with cultural

Frances Scyphers with her daughters at the Athens-Concord Town Social

and social activities at Concord. Admired by her friends and fellow townspeople, Frances, with her warm personality, is always a welcome guest at campus and community events.

Mrs. Scyphers is a lifetime member of Concord United Methodist Church located on Vermillion Street in Athens.

She has been an active member of the church family through the years.

Frances has remembered her family’s Concord legacy by purchasing chairs in the Wilkes Family Chapel at University Point in their honor.

Heritage & Horizon

Japanese alum Shigeki Yaginuma Making his mark in digital marketing

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higeki Yaginuma is among a growing number of Concord University’s Japanese alumni. Shigeki graduated from Concord in 2004 and has since returned to his native Japan where he has made a strong mark in the field of online marketing and management. He lives in Sagamihara, Kanagawa and works in Shibuya, Tokyo.

In September Shigeki became the senior digital marketing executive at Robert Walters Japan, a company specializing in professional recruitment. He is responsible for the company’s online marketing in Japan and South Korea.

Prior to that, he worked as marketing manager with Travelzoo Japan. Travelzoo publishes travel and entertainment opportunities online and has 23 million subscribers worldwide.

In 2009 Shigeki was recognized with the Travelzoo Top Innovator award. He was the first Japanese individual to receive this honor in the company’s history.

Shigeki pursued the ambitious goal of two degrees as a Concord student. He not only achieved his goal, but excelled along the way as well. Named to the Dean’s List three times, Shigeki graduated Cum Laude. He received a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems.

Shigeki says the computer and business knowledge and skills he received at Concord are “very helpful and keys to my career.”

He has fond memories of his time at Concord.

Among the highlights, he said, are “playing soccer with international students and studying in the library till it closed.”

Shigeki was a member of Concord’s International Club.

As an international student, Shigeki said some of the most rewarding aspects of his time at Concord are “the

Office of Multicultural Affairs

experience of living in a foreign country and meeting many people from different countries.” He also counts “studying from great professors” an important part of his Concord education.

He keeps in touch with special friends he made on campus who helped make his time here especially

meaningful. “I would like to thank my American parents, Dr. Stephen and Sharon Rowe, for their heartfelt support,” he said.

Sharon Rowe is an instructor in English as a second language at Concord. Dr. Rowe is director of the Marsh Library and professor of English. They are both involved in international initiatives at Concord and travel outside of the United States on behalf of the University.

Shigeki supports the establishment of a Concord University alumni chapter in Japan. “It is a great idea,” he said. “We can keep the connections and do something in the future.”

Awarded Grant

The Concord University Office of Multicultural Affairs was recently awarded grant funds by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission and Community and Technical College System of West Virginia.

The purpose of this initiative is to develop a campus environment that promotes mutual understanding and respect among all individuals and groups regardless of race/ethnicity, socioeconomic background, age, religion, gender, nationality,

veteran’s status, and ability of the student, staff, and faculty.

The award of $6,500 will be used to fund the objectives of Concord University’s Diversity for Equity Initiative which are: To eliminate or reduce discriminatory behavior by increasing educational opportunities, developing awareness and promoting acceptance and appreciation of human diversity, to organize an international festival that celebrates the traditions, music, dance and food of the

countries represented on campus by international students, and to create internship opportunities that focus on diversity for equity issues.

Nancy Ellison, Concord’s director of Multicultural Affairs authored and submitted the grant. “The funding from this initiative will allow us to elevate our efforts to new levels of participation, community outreach, and ongoing multicultural awareness development,” Ellison said.

32

Class Notes Achievements Joe Roles ’55 served as the grand marshal for the 2011 Farmer’s Day parade in Union, W.Va. on Saturday, June 4. A Monroe County native, Roles is the author of “Mary Jane’s War,” a Civil War novel based on a true story.

Dr. William P. Morgan ’57, Emeritus Professor of Kinesiology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, was recently elevated to “Legacy Status” in the American College of Sports Medicine at the College’s Annual Meeting held in Denver, Colo. The American College of Sports Medicine is the leading scientific organization in exercise science and sports medicine, and it includes over 20,000 members worldwide. Morgan is one of 25 individuals to receive the designation. The Department of Kinesiology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has recently established a lectureship in honor of Morgan’s scientific contributions to the field of exercise and sport psychology.

Dr. John Baker ’68, professor of English at Concord, was the keynote speaker for the Celebration of Pocahontas Poets held at the Hillsboro Public Library on Oct. 16, 2010. The Celebration featured a tribute to the work and legacy of Louise McNeill Pease, former Poet Laureate of West Virginia. A student of Pease’s when she taught at Concord, Baker has published articles and given numerous presentations on the poetry of West Virginia’s famed “hill daughter.”

Jennifer L. Ware ’88 earned an MBA through West Virginia University in May 2011. She is employed by BB&T Wealth Management as a vice president and senior trust officer in Charleston, W.Va. serving the Charleston and southern West Virginia markets.

Mark Fischer ’90 and players with the St. James High School football team he coaches in Murrells Inlet, S.C. helped recently with earthquake recovery efforts in Mineral, Va. Fisher and his team volunteered in a community where he had coached just last season at Louisa County High School. He took Louisa’s three decades long losing record and turned it into the winning column the eight years he was there. The feat earned him two Associated Press Virginia Coach of the Year honors. Along with molding his players into winners, Fischer also expected the young men to be champions at community service. He’s passing this same trait on to his new team in South Carolina.

Anastas Popov ’99 has joined Morgan Stanley in New York City as a Senior Bank Manager.

Vishal Badiani ’01 received his master’s degree at UC Berkeley in California. He currently works as director of finance at Life Technologies in San Diego, Calif.

Christy Elliott-McGinnis ’04 was recently named one of BB&T’s regional Merchant Sales Consultants covering the West Virginia Central territory. She began her banking career with BB&T as a Relationship Banker in June 2004. In March 2005, she transitioned as the BB&T @Work Coordinator and then into the BB&T @Work Sales Officer role. She serves on the Business Advisory Council for Concord’s Division of Business.

Kara Stephens ’04 is currently working as a medical device sales representative in San Diego, Calif. specializing in orthopaedic surgical equipment.

Zornitsa “Zorrie” Georgieva ’06 earned her master’s degree from Radford University in Educational Technology in May 2011.

She recently served as program coordinator of Concord’s Academic Success Center. She began working toward a Ph.D. at West Virginia University in August 2011.

Jamie Parsell ’06 directed a fall fashion photo shoot on “The Campus Beautiful” in July for Prerogative Magazine. She is lifestyle editor at the Bluefield Daily Telegraph and associate editor of Prerogative. Concord locations featured in the magazine include Callaghan Stadium, the Marsh Library and University Point.

Bobby Barber ’07 has been promoted to the position of controller for the Institute for Shipboard Education effective Aug. 1, 2011.

Logan Browning ’07 has passed his Comps at Kent State University to receive a Ph.D. in Accounting.

Michele Sexton ’07 completed her master’s degree in Literacy Education from Marshall University in May 2011.

Jade Palazzola Gallimore ’09 has been accepted to Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine as part of the Class of 2015 and is enrolled in their dual program with the business school to complete her MBA. She lives in Morristown, Tenn. with husband, John.

Karla Gunnoe ’10 was named Assistant Principal at Summers County High School for the 2011-2012 school year.

33

Class Notes Carli Ratliff ’10 won First Place, Best of Show for her entry “Squirrel in a Paulownia Tree” in The Inspired WV Wildlife Exhibition held at the WV Division of Culture and History Museum on Aug. 8, 2011. The exhibit will be displayed in the gallery for six months.

George Walsh ’10 had his artwork “Mixed Up Worlds” featured in the Glenville State College Art Gallery. His opening reception was held Sept. 12, 2011 and the show was exhibited through Oct. 7, 2011.

Matthew Belcher ’11 has been hired by Carter Machinery in Bluefield, W.Va.

Joshua Blessing ’11 has been accepted to Florida Coastal School of Law in Jacksonville and received a Dean’s Merit Scholarship.

Weddings

Ashwin Mundra ’02 married Jyoti Joshi on July 7, 2011 in Calcutta, India. Ashwin met Jyoti in New York City in 2010.

Lisa Wilkins ’04 and Jermey Gates were united in marriage on Aug. 8, 2009 in Marion, Va. Lisa is a kindergarten teacher and Jermey is a pilot. The couple currently resides in Wytheville, Va.

Jennifer Crowe ’06 married Kory Hedrick on June 25, 2011. Both Jennifer and Kory are originally from Princeton, W.Va. and now live in Charlotte, N.C. Jennifer works as a school social worker in North Carolina.

Amber Hager ’07 married Alan He on March 4, 2011.

Michele Sexton ’07 and Shawn Chahar were united in marriage on Aug. 6, 2011.

Sarah Elizabeth Baker ’08 and Nicholas Shawn Bailey were married Oct. 2, 2010 in the Wilkes Family Chapel at Concord’s University Point. Sarah is the daughter of Dr. John ’68 and Carol Little Baker ’71 of Princeton, W.Va. They are the first couple to be married at University Point.

Births

Charlie Vance, Jr. ’70 and wife, Glenna, are pleased to announce the birth of their grandson, Conner Ryan Vance. Conner was born on Feb. 24, 2010 and is the son of Robert Ryan Vance and Chelsey Mitchell.

Kati Sagady Hatfield ’93, and husband, Matt, proudly announce the birth of Taryn Kersey Hatfield on April 28, 2011. Taryn weighed 7 lbs., 7 oz. and was 21 inches long. She joins older sister Leah.

Bobby Ray Michael ’97 and his wife, Kristin Campbell Michael, welcomed a baby girl, Avery Lee Michael, on March 18, 2011. Avery was 7 lbs. 4 oz. and 19 inches long. They live in Charlotte, N.C. where Bobby is employed with Sprint as a specialist engineer. Bobby is the son of Dennis and Connie Michael of Athens, W.Va. Connie Michael has been an employee of Concord University for the past 33 years.

Sarah Lively Turner ’98 and her husband Nathan welcomed a son, Jackson Scott Turner, on Aug. 21, 2011.

Jack weighed 6 lbs. 3 oz. and was 20 ¼ inches long.

Ben Cornwell ’99 and Stacy Odum Cornwell ’99 welcomed their third son, Seth Benjamin, on March 16, 2011. Seth weighed 6 lbs. and 14 oz. He joins big brothers Nolan, 7, and Cade, 4. The family resides in Winchester, Va. with their dog, Pudge.

Gergana Ivanov ’01 and Todor Hinov ’00 welcomed a baby girl, Victoria, on June 11, 2011. Victoria is a little sister to big brother Nicholai. They live in Washington, D.C. where Todor is an attorney and Gergana is an accountant.

Josh ’01 and Jenny ’02 Stowers are the proud parents of a son. Joshua Daniel Stowers II was born on May 16, 2011 at 5:36 a.m. He was 7 lbs. 14 oz. and 20 inches long.

Jackson Scott Turner

34

Class Notes Kristie Michael Combs ’03 and her husband, Jackie C. Combs, Jr., welcomed a baby girl named Zoe Renea Combs on June 26, 2011. She weighed 9 lbs. and 5 oz. and was 23 inches long. They reside in Lerona, W.Va. Kristie is a C.P.A. and works for David Holbrook in Bluefield, Va. They also have two other children, Erica, 13, and a son, Jordan, 8. Kristie is the daughter of Dennis and Connie Michael of Athens, W.Va. Connie Michael has been an employee of Concord University for the past 33 years.

Amber Hager ’07 and husband, Alan He, welcomed a baby boy, Anderson, on June 15, 2011. Anderson weighed 8 lbs. 3 oz. and was 20 ½ inches long.

Anniversary

Charlie Vance, Jr. ’70 and wife, Glenna, celebrated their 41st wedding anniversary on Aug. 15, 2011.

Passings

Jane Eades ’46: July 19, 2011. Eades graduated from Princeton High School in 1943 at age 16 and Concord College by age 19 in 1946. She taught at Big Creek High School for one year before she joined Graham High School for 37 years as a biology teacher. In 1968, she was honored as Virginia State Science Teacher of the Year by NASA, primarily for bringing genetics curriculum into the classroom. Eades was a member of the Concord United Methodist Church and an active member and volunteer of Athens and the surrounding community. She is survived by her two sons, Roy Edward Eads III and wife Lorian of Walkertown, N.C. and Richard Eads of Lindside, W.Va.; one daughter, Janie Meadows; a grandson, Brady Meadows of Athens; and many nieces and nephews.

Nelrose Richards Price ’46: Sept. 17, 2011. Price was a 1942 graduate of Princeton High School. She earned a bachelor of science degree in education with teaching fields in physical education and business from Concord. She was retired from Concord University with 41 years of service holding roles as clerk in the Registrar’s Office, Assistant Registrar, Acting Registrar and finally as Registrar. She was a member of the Presidents Club and Executive Council of the Concord University Alumni Association. Price was awarded Concord’s Alumnus of the Year Award in 1982 and honored as the Golden Alumnus in 2006. She was a member of the Princeton Chapter #53 Order of the Eastern Star and a member of the Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority. She was also a former secretary for the Weatherford Fellowship at Kee Street United Methodist Church in Princeton. Price is survived by her husband of 53 years, Earl Price; one sister, Jean Richards; and several nieces and nephews.

Phyllis Ann Coulter Bailey ’48: April 25, 2011. Bailey received her undergraduate degree from Concord College and master’s degree in medical social work from Simmons College in Boston, Mass. Throughout her career, she was employed as a medical social worker at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Md.; in the Crippled Children’s Unit of DC General Hospital in Washington, D.C.; and as a teacher’s assistant in the Montgomery County School System in Montgomery County, Miss. where she retired in 1989. After retirement, she moved to Chambersburg, Pa., and volunteered at the Chambersburg Hospital for 15 years. She was instrumental in organizing and moderating a post polio support group there. She is survived by her husband, Walter Bailey ’50, and two sons, David Bailey of Shrewsbury, Mass. and Jeffrey Bailey of Levittown, Pa. Conrad Dayton Cook ’50: Dec. 1, 2009. Joining the Navy as a junior in high school, Cook was a veteran of World War II serving with the US Navy from 1942 to 1946. He was involved in the Normandy Invasion. He attended the U.S. Naval Training School at Northwestern University, graduated from Concord College with a bachelor’s degree, earned his master’s degree in education from West Virginia University and also attended Bowling Green State University attaining several hours above his master’s degree.

He taught at Mansfield Reformatory, Woodville Schools, and taught 8th grade English at Madison South for 30 years. Cook was a member of the First Christian Church and Mansfield Masonic Lodge #35 F. & A.M. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Esther Pasco Cook; four children, Marla Cook, Phillip Cook, Susan Chelski and husband James, and David Cook and wife Kimberly; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; one sister, Ophelia Karnes; and several nieces and nephews.

Andora Lilly Giffen ’67: June 27, 2011. Giffen graduated from Hinton High School in 1963 and Concord College in 1967 where she was a member of the Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority. She enjoyed an early career teaching school, working for the Town of Bluefield, Va., and as a librarian for National Business College. Later in life, she found her talent and chosen profession in interior design and decorating. She was an active member of the First United Methodist Church and also served in numerous clubs and boards. Along with her husband of 43 years, Tom ’67, she is survived by her two daughters, Jennifer Vaderson and husband Erik of Savannah, Ga., and Greta Valeyko and husband Brian of Charlottesville, Va.; three grandchildren, Jack and Lilly Vaderson and Chloe Valeyko; sister, Margie Arthur and husband Gary of Ona, W.Va; sister-in-law, Betz Lilly of Augusta, Ga; and several nieces and nephews.

Dr. Winton Covey: Aug. 26, 2011. Covey earned his bachelor’s degree from Johns Hopkins University before serving as a tank commander in the NATO allied forces during the Korean War where he earned the rank of Captain and was awarded the Bronze Star. After returning home, he earned his Ph.D. in Soil Science from Texas A&M. Covey was Associate Professor of Meteorology at Cornell University for three years before becoming Professor of Natural Sciences at Concord College in 1968. He retired from 35

Class Notes Concord in 1994. During his time at Concord, he was the faculty advisor of the Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity and active in Lions Club, Ruritan and the Mercer County Historical Society. Covey is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mary; daughter Mandy Covey and special daughter, Amy Barron. Survivors also include sisters Alice Jo and husband, Edwin Wills; and Shirley Mae and husband Dominic Mele; brother Jerry and wife, Joan Covey; brother-in-law Frank Ono and many nephews and nieces.

Ralph W. Shumate: Sept. 17, 2011. Shumate was a lifelong resident of Bluefield, W.Va. and was a World War II era veteran, having served in the Army Air Corps. He was a faithful, charter member of Edgemont Baptist Church where he served in many capacities.

He was an active member and president of the Men’s Sunday School Class, a deacon, an usher and a committee member. Shumate retired from Concord University after working many years in the Heating Maintenance Department. He was a member of the West Virginia Teacher’s Retirement Association and the American Legion. He loved gardening and doing yard work. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Onita Irvin Shumate; one daughter, Sharon Borror and husband David; one sister, Mary Higgins and husband Arvil; two brothers, Kenneth Shumate and wife Patty, and Glen Shumate and wife Joan; two grandchildren; one great-grandson; two sisters-in-law; and several nieces and nephews.

Sara Van Horn Uhl: Aug. 16, 2011. Uhl graduated from Parkersburg High School in 1937. She worked for many years as an executive secretary at Camp Walters in Mineral Wells, Texas during WWII; and at the Wood County Assessor’s office, Penn Metal Co., the office of Dr. Harry Myer, and State Farm Insurance. Uhl was appointed to the W.Va. Board of Education by Gov. Hulett C. Smith. As a member of this board, she helped to determine the educational policies of the state and shared the general control and supervision of the business and educational affairs of the state’s colleges and universities including Concord. She was the only woman to serve in this capacity during the late 1960s. She also served on the W.Va. Vocational Education Board, the W.Va. Educational Broadcasting Authority, the Board of the W.Va. School for the Deaf and the Blind, and W.Va. University Extension Service. Uhl was very active in civic activities and was named “Citizen of The Year” on two occasions. She was a longtime member of Wayside U.M. Church where she served as a Trustee and on many boards during the 70-plus years she belonged. Uhl is survived by several cousins, nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and other family members.

Calling for Class Notes

We want to hear from you! Send us your personal and professional accomplishments, news on marriages and family additions and updates on other noteworthy events in your life. Photographs are welcome as well.

Please email your news items to advancement@concord.edu or mail them to Concord University, Office of Advancement, P.O. Box 1000, Athens, WV 24712.

Lilly

honored by state broadcasters

A Concord University journalist has been honored by the West Virginia Associated Press Broadcasters. Jessica Y. Lilly received a Second Place award in the Best Reporter category. Lilly is an adjunct communication arts instructor at Concord and Southern West Virginia Bureau Chief for West Virginia Public Broadcasting. Her office is located on Concord’s campus.

Lilly’s award is one of 11 won by the News Department of West Virginia Public Broadcasting. The nearly dozen honors earned the news team the designation of the Most Outstanding Radio News Operation in the state. The awards recognize work produced in 2010 and were presented in June.

Beckley Students & Faculty Assist in 9/11 Ceremony

A delegation from Concord’s Beckley campus assisted with a dedication ceremony for the Raleigh County First Responder Memorial in Word Park in Beckley, W.Va. on Sunday, Sept.

11, 2011. The monument contains a piece of steel that was once part of the World Trade Center and that was bent during the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Beckley faculty member Lori Pace, who also works with student services, led the group.

The 23 volunteers set up chairs, folded pamphlets, directed traffic, helped seat guests, handed out programs and packed up supplies following the event.

36

CU Athletics

Mountain Lions outdistance 3rd-ranked Shepherd Rams

to win Rotary Bowl

A

long with a hefty trophy, the Mountain Lions came away from the 2011 Rotary Bowl with a string of accolades. Concord upset unbeaten Shepherd, 28-14, ending a seven-game losing streak to the Rams and moving into first place in the conference. The much anticipated WVIAC matchup took place Saturday, Oct. 1 at Callaghan Stadium with a 1 p.m. kickoff.

The Rams went into the contest at 4-0 commanding the #3 slot in the nation in the latest American Football Coaches Association NCAA Division II poll. Concord hadn’t beaten Shepherd since a 20-19 triumph on Nov. 8, 2003. With the win Concord advanced to 3-2, 3-0 for the season.

The Mountain Lions’ defense limited the Rams to 204 total yards – 246 under their season average – 37

and only one offensive touchdown.

Concord forced five turnovers, including three interceptions and two fumble recoveries.

Meanwhile, Concord’s offense piled up 461 yards, or 232 more than Shepherd had allowed per game this season. The Mountain Lions forged a nearly eight-minute edge in time of possession, 33:54 to 26:06.

However, the contest did not start well. On Concord’s first possession of the day, Shepherd’s Elijah Davis intercepted a tipped pass and returned it 65 yards for a touchdown for a 7-0 lead when just 4:17 after kickoff.

Concord answered on its next possession with a big play of its own.

Zack Grossi lobbed a deep pass over the middle, and Ryan Stewart hauled it in for a 61-yard touchdown. John Scritchfield’s extra-point kick was

blocked and Shepherd held on to a 7-6 lead.

The Rams extended their advantage to 14-6 on a 27-yard touchdown pass from Bobby Cooper to Justin Ford – on 4th down and 12 – with 6:14 remaining in the 1st quarter.

But Shepherd would score no more. Following the Rams’ TD, Concord embarked on 12-play, 72-yard, 6:02 drive that ended on a nine-yard touchdown pass from Grossi to Garrett Hammett. The Mountain Lions tied the game at 14-14 when Brian Kennedy threw to fellow running back Chris Rodriguez for a two-point conversion.

Concord’s defense forced its first takeaway when Riyadh Richardson intercepted a Cooper pass early in the 2nd quarter. That set the stage for a seven-play, 71-yard drive – featuring a 51-yard pass from Grossi

CU Athletics to Randall Hawkins – that resulted in a three-yard touchdown plunge

by Kennedy. Concord led 21-14 with 9:08 left before halftime.

CU maintained its narrow lead until the defense came up big again, when Joe Greenway recovered a Shepherd fumble at the Concord 38 in the closing seconds of the 3rd quarter. Three plays later, on 3rdand-1 at the 47, Rodriguez burst through a hole in Shepherd’s packed, short-yardage defense and raced 53

had three catches for 91. Rodriguez rushed 12 times for 87 yards – all in the 2nd half – while Kennedy finished with 77 yards on 20 carries.

On defense, Jake Lilly – the WVIAC’s leading tackler – had 12 stops, including three tackles for loss. Greenway added nine tackles.

Richardson finished with six tackles, two interceptions and one pass break-up.

Football Wins Big in Charleston

yards for the clinching touchdown.

Aaron Martinez picked off Cooper to end Shepherd’s next possession. Later, with time running out, Richardson nabbed his second interception of the day and CU ran out the clock.

Concord offensive coordinator Dustin Ward balanced his playcalling, with 36 passes and 35 runs.

Grossi completed 22 of his passes for 306 yards; Hawkins caught ten of them for 128 yards, while Stewart

oncord celebrated in the state capital Sept. 17 with a win on the football field and a tailgate for alumni and friends.

The Mountain Lions routed the University of Charleston Golden Eagles 38-15 in the WVIAC opener at UC Stadium in Charleston, W.Va. The win was the first for Garin Justice as CU’s head football coach.

CU was 0-2 going into the contest following a season opener loss against Lenoir-Rhyne before the home crowd on Sept. 3 and a defeat the following week at the hands of Elon University in Elon, N.C. Justice said the Mountain Lions emerged from setback against a solid Football Championship Subdivision opponent with a stronger belief in themselves. And it’s that confidence that put them in the winning column against Charleston.

“We came out of that game (Elon) knowing that we could play 60 minutes against a very good team, on the road,” Justice said prior facing the Golden Eagles. “We have a bunch of guys who showed that they can play at a high level. If we can take that confidence into the conference season, we should be in pretty good shape.”

That confidence paid off. The Mountain Lions spotted UC an early 7-3 lead, but reeled off 35 unanswered points in a 38-15 victory at UC Stadium.

Junior QB Zack Grossi led the way

for the Mountain Lions, completing 27 of 35 passes for 364 yards and all five of Concord’s touchdowns.

Two receivers eclipsed 100 yards – Randall Hawkins caught nine passes for 113 yards and two TDs, and Ryan Stewart hauled in five receptions for 117 yards and two TDs. The Mountain Lions ran 76 plays for 482 yards, while Charleston gained 300 yards on 56 plays.

Concord forced a fumble by Adrien Jenkins on Charleston’s first possession, and went on a 16-play, 60-yard, 7:26 drive that ended with a 21-yard field goal by John Scritchfield and a 3-0 lead.

The Golden Eagles answered with a nine-play, 66-yard drive that finished with a 36-yard touchdown pass from Maurice Leak to John Drennen that put UC ahead 7-3 just nine seconds into the 2nd quarter.

Then Grossi - enjoying solid blocking from the offensive line began to find a rhythm.

CU took the lead for good on a 16yard touchdown pass from Grossi to Hawkins, culminating an efficient five-play, 60-yard, 1:34 drive with 13:12 left before halftime.

The Mountain Lions added to their advantage by exploiting a botched Charleston punt late in the half. CU covered 29 yards in just 37 seconds, with Grossi finding Hawkins for a 33-yard touchdown with only :33 remaining before the break.

Concord was ahead 17-7 at halftime, and quickly added to the

lead. The Mountain Lions took the 2nd half kickoff and went 64 yards on nine plays, capped by a 24-yard TD pass from Grossi to Stewart. CU pushed the lead to 31-7 on Rashid Baker’s three-yard touchdown catch with 4:25 to go in the 3rd quarter.

The Mountain Lions defense forced a three-and-out, setting up

C

CU Alums and Friends enjoying the pregame alumni tailgate

Grossi’s fifth and final TD pass of the day – a 54-yard laser beam to Stewart that made the score 38-7.

Charleston closed with 38-15 early in the 4th quarter after Jordan Roberts rushed six yards for a touchdown and Boobie Tobler ran in a two-point conversion. But that was the end of the scoring.

Jake Lilly paced the CU defense with 12 tackles. Riyadh Richardson had nine, with Ethan Perry and Zach Gibbins adding six apiece.

Gibbins and Aaron Martinez each had interceptions for the Mountain Lions. Concord had a significant advantage in time possession – 35:14 to 24:46 – and went 7-14 on 3rd down conversions, 6-7 in the 2nd half.

38

CU Athletics WOMEN'S GOLF Women’s Team claims Northern Regional Fall announced its presence the first weekend of October, dropping high temperatures by 20 degrees or more and chasing away sunshine with clouds, wind, rain and the first snowflakes of the season.

The bad weather played havoc with the WVIAC Women’s Golf Northern Regional tournament, too, cutting in half the planned two-round event at the Moundsville Country Club in Moundsville, W.Va. Still, Concord’s women’s golf team headed home with a warm feeling – and some hardware. The Lady Lions claimed the team title and medalist honors in the first conference tournament of the 2011 fall season.

FUNDRAISER

CU totaled a 337 team score to distance itself from a competitive eight-team field.

Wheeling Jesuit was runner-up, nine shots back of Concord. The Cardinals were just one shot ahead of West Virginia Wesleyan, which was just one shot ahead of Ohio Valley, which was just one shot ahead of Seton Hill.

Concord's Marina Erice earned medalist honors with a six-over-par 77. The sophomore from Pamplona, Spain was the only player to finish under 80.

CU put two more players in the top ten. Justine Knox and Shelby Myers each shot an 83 to tie for 6th place.

Heather McMillen carded a 94 on a cold and blustery day.

Erice and Knox tied for most pars, with ten. Knox topped the field in par-3 scoring and McMillen tied for the lead in birdies, with two.

Golf Tournament Benefits CU Athletics Golfers gathered at Fountain Springs Golf Course in Peterstown, W.Va. July 15 for the annual Concord University Athletic Department Golf Tournament.

The winning team receiving first place honors includes Dave Wilcox, Ken Michael, Tim Temple and Mike Lanier.

The yearly outing helps support Mountain Lion Athletics and gives participants the opportunity to enjoy a day of fun and golf with Concord staff, alumni and friends. Corporate sponsor for the event is Appalachian Eye Care.

Other awards include: 2nd place, Jack Scott, Steve Newberry, Rich Hannah and Mark Ford; 3rd place, Brandon Watkins, Roger McGraw, Roger McGraw Jr. and Derek Brooks; longest drive, Cedric Smith; longest putt, Michael; and, closest to the pin, Wilcox.

Play began at 8:30 a.m. with a shotgun start.

Tournament action was followed by a cookout and awards ceremony.

Appalachian Eye Care – Dr. Brad Lane ’02, left, and Dr. Chris Hansen

First Place

Second Place

Third Place

Athletics section compiled with assistance from CU Sports Information Director Kyle Cooper 39

Concord Adds New Faculty

Concord University welcomed 22 new full-time faculty members for the 2011-2012 academic year. They were introduced to the campus community during the Opening Faculty and Staff Meeting on the morning of Aug. 22. The annual event was held in the Ballroom of the Jerry L. Beasley Student Center.

The new faculty members are: Mr. Lonnie L. Bowe – Assistant Professor of Computer Science. B.S., Concord University; M.S., West Virginia University. Comes here from Westover, West Virginia.

Mr. Casey R. Cangelosi – Non-tenure track Instructor in Music. B.M., Utah State University; M.M., The Boston Conservatory; M.M., Rice University.

Lives in Princeton, West Virginia. Has been teaching adjunct for Concord.

Dr. Lewis A. Cook – Non-tenure track Lecturer in Geology. B.A., West Virginia Universiy; M.S., University College London; M.D., Ph.D., West Virginia University. Lives in Fayetteville, West Virginia. Has been employed by Concord’s R&D Corporation.

Ms. Charlotte Davis – Assistant Professor of Management. B.B.A., Texas Tech University; M.B.A., Wayland Baptist University; Doctorate candidate, University of Memphis. Comes here from Memphis, Tennessee.

Mr. Lawrence J. Gilbert – Non-tenure track Lecturer in Physical Sciences.

B.S., M.S., California University of Pennsylvania. Lives in Covington, Virginia. Has been teaching adjunct for Concord.

Mr. Timothy Haskins – Non-tenure track Lecturer in Spanish. B.A., M.A., University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Comes here from Knoxville, Tennessee.

Ms. Cathryn Jarrell – Executive Director Child Care Center (R&D Corp.).

B.S., George Mason University; M.Ed., Jones International University. Comes here from Ansbach, Germany.

Dr. Cynthia J. Khanlarian – Associate Professor of Accounting. B.A., Converse

College; M.S., Ph.D., University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Comes here from Greensboro, North Carolina.

Mr. R. Keith Lilly – Non-tenure track Instructor in History. B.A., Concord University; M.A., Virginia Tech. Lives in Jumping Branch, West Virginia. Has been teaching adjunct for Concord.

Dr. Jie Luo – Assistant Professor of Accounting. B.E., Yunnan University of Finance and Economics; Ph.D., Virginia Tech. Comes here from Blacksburg, Virginia.

Mr. Kenton M. McBride – Non-tenure track Head Men’s Basketball Coach/ Instructor in Business. B.S., Concord University; M.B.A., West Virginia Wesleyan College. Comes here from Glenville, West Virginia.

Dr. Christopher McClain – Non-tenure track Instructor in Mathematics. B.A., West Virginia University; Ph.D., The Ohio State University. Comes here from Beckley, West Virginia.

Dr. Wesley R. Meeteer – Assistant Professor of Physical Education. B.S., M.S., Concord University; Doctorate candidate, West Virginia University.

Comes here from Morgantown, West Virginia.

Mr. Mark T. Moore – Non-tenure track Instructor in Art. B.A., University of Charleston; M.A., Marshall University; M.F.A., West Virginia University. Lives in Charleston, West Virginia. Has been teaching adjunct for Concord.

Dr. Jill A. Nolan – Assistant Professor of Health Education. B.A., M.A., Marshall University; Doctorate candidate, West Virginia University. Comes here from Morgantown, West Virginia.

Dr. Cassia Oliveira – Non-tenure track Lecturer in Biology. B.S., M.S., Sao Paulo State University; Ph.D., University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. Comes here from Lincoln, Nebraska.

Dr. Mohan P. Pokharel – Assistant Professor of Management. B.L., Tribhuvan University, Nepal; M.I.A., Columbia University; Ph.D., Virginia Tech. Comes here from Blacksburg, Virginia.

Dr. Thomas M. Saladyga – Assistant Professor of Geography. B.S., The Pennsylvania State University; M.A., West Chester University. Doctorate candidate, West Virginia University.

Comes here from Morgantown, West Virginia.

Dr. Jim Shepherd – Assistant Professor of Music . B.M., M.M., Morehead State University; D.M., The University of Texas. Comes here from Austin, Texas.

Dr. Shimantini Shome – Assistant Professor of Geography. B.A., M.A., University of Pune, India; Ph.D., University of Kansas, Lawrence. Comes here from Lawrence, Kansas.

Dr. Brendon K. Vayo – Non-tenure track Lecturer in English. B.F.A., University of Maine at Farmington; M.F.A., University of Utah; Ph.D., University of Louisiana. Comes here from North Grafton, Massachusetts.

Dr. Maria Zalduondo – Visiting Assistant Professor of Spanish. B.S.S.W., Adelphi University; M.A., Ph.D., The University of Texas at Austin. Comes here from Fort Worth, Texas.

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Matchen, Pauley

NAMED TO CONCORD UNIVERSITY BOARD OF GOVERNORS The Concord University Board that updated the geologic maps of Governors (BOG) welcomed two of Pendleton County and pursued new members on Tuesday, Sept. 13, hydrocarbon research in West 2011. A swearing in ceremony was Virginia. The team has published held in the Concord Room for faculty a number of maps and technical representative Dr. David Matchen papers associated with this work. and student representative Adam He also had several papers, Pauley. based on his dissertation research, The oath of office for each published in 2006 and 2008. Since was administered by last year, Matchen Board of Governors has worked with Chairperson Frank the WVGES and L. Blackwell prior to the National Park the board’s regularly Service to update scheduled meeting. the geological maps Both Matchen and for New River Gorge Pauley were selected National River. by their peers to serve Pauley is a junior a one-year term on the at Concord University governing body. majoring in business Matchen is an administration with an associate professor of emphasis in accounting geology at Concord. He and minor in political received a bachelor’s science. His hometown degree in geology from is Whitesville, W.Va. Juniata College in 1988 He is involved in and a master’s degree a number of campus in geology from West activities and Adam Pauley (above) and Virginia University holds leadership Dr. David Matchen join the in 1992. In 2004, he positions with a list Concord University Board of earned a doctorate of organizations.

Governors degree in geology A Bonner Scholar, from West Virginia Pauley is a member of University. the West Virginia Campus Compact From 1991 to 2004 Matchen Student Advisory Board, the served as a petroleum and field Concord University Service Counsel geologist with the West Virginia and the West Virginia State Advisory Geological and Economic Survey Council of Students. He is a resident (WVGES). He was part of a team assistant, a student ambassador

Holiday Gift Ideas

with the Office of Admissions and a member of the Concord University Accounting Society.

Along with his current position as the BOG student representative, he has also been involved with the Student Government Association as Senator, Business Manager, chairman and member of Concord University Student Affairs Committee.

He is part of the Concord University Honors Program and a member of the Blue Key Honor Society. Pauley was named Concord University Homecoming Royalty in 2010.

The BOG is comprised of 12 people including nine members appointed by the governor, a fulltime member of the faculty, a member of the student body and a member of Concord’s classified employees.

The Board of Governors’ powers and duties generally include: determining controlling supervisions and managing the financial, business and education policies and affairs of Concord University, developing a master plan, demonstrating how the master plan will be used, developing goals and missions, and other items as directed by the legislation. Effective July 1, 2001, the institutional board was established at Concord as required by SB 653 and 703.

Support the CUAA “The Campus Beautiful” is a print by well-known artist P. Buckley Moss produced especially for Concord University in conjunction with the Concord University Alumni Association, Inc. Print size is 11”x13”. Cost is $100 41

with $15 shipping and handling for each print.

Make all checks payable to: Concord University Alumni Association, Inc. Mail to: CUAA, PO Box 1000, Campus Box 83, Athens, WV 24712.

When ordering, please include your name, phone number, email address, and a street address for shipping.

The Brick Project offers a way to remember an individual, event or organization while supporting Concord’s Legacy Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to children of Concord alumni.

Customized bricks are available in two sizes. The 4”x8” version offers three

We have a for someone you know.

Dear Alumni and Friends, We have a special place for someone you know.

You are in a unique position, as an alumnus or friend of Concord University, to recommend prospective students to the University. The special person you know may currently be in high school or in the workforce…and searching for the perfect fit for college. Please submit the name of your special person and we will follow up to see if we can meet his or her academic needs.

We look forward to hearing from you and meeting someone who is special to you!

Submit this form in the envelope provided.

The information you supply below is all that’s required and you don’t have to complete the form on the envelope. Or, you may call 1-888-384-5249 or email alumni@concord.edu to make your referral.

(Please mention that you are making an alumni student referral when you call.)

Students Name:______________________________

Address:_ _____________________________________

________________________________________________ Phone: ________________________________________

Kindest regards,

Email: _________________________________________

Sarah Turner Director of Alumni Affairs

________________________________________________ Parents' Names: _____________________________

Legacy Scholarship is Now Available

We are proud to announce the availability of the Concord University Legacy Scholarship.

Did you graduate from either Concord College or Concord University? Then, your son or daughter will be eligible to apply for the Concord University Legacy Scholarship.

The scholarship is non-renewable and is contingent upon available funds. Encourage your son or daughter to apply early!

Here are the criteria. The successful recipient must: • be either a first-time freshman or student who transfers from another institution, • be a dependent of either a Concord College or Concord University graduate, • have a minimum 3.0 high school GPA and 18 on the ACT or 870 (verbal and mathematics score only) on the SAT, and completed the admissions application by April 15.

The Legacy Scholarship is funded, in part, by the sale of bricks by the Concord University Alumni Association.

The bricks are installed in the sidewalk under the breezeway between the J. Frank Marsh Library and Marsh Hall.

lines of print (14 characters) or two lines of print (20 characters) and may be purchased for $120 each.

Larger bricks are 8”x8” in size and feature up to six lines of print (14 characters per line). These bricks cost $330 each.

Mini bricks, containing the inscriptions of the 4x8 and 8x8 bricks, are also available.

For ordering information contact the

Name of high school and graduation date:

Advancement Office at 304-384-6311 or advancement@concord.edu

A campus landmark is part of the Cat’s Meow® collection.

The Pine Trees Chapter of the CUAA commissioned a miniature of Marsh Hall and the delightful collectible is available for $15. Proceeds help fund

________________________________________________ Are Parents Alumni? ________

If current college student, name of institution: ________________________________________________ Your Name: ___________________________________ Class Year: ____________________

Address: ______________________________________

________________________________________________

Email: _________________________________________ Thank you for your recommendation!

a Pine Trees scholarship for Concord freshmen. The piece features the Marsh Memorial Carillon. For more information, email the chapter at pinetreesalumnichapter@hotmail.com or call 304-384-9457. The Advancement Office can also provide ordering information.

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Keynote Speaker – W. Gaston Caperton III Thursday, November 10, 2011 Reception: 6:00 pm Dinner: 7:00 pm Embassy Suites Charleston, WV Please contact the Office of Advancement for information on tickets and table pricing.

1-304-384-6311 Office of Advancement