09 First Qt FS&U

FS&U

The Magazine for Fayetteville State University Alumni and Friends Fall Winter 2009

Microprobe Partnership Generates Domestic and International Interest

Strategic alliances can serve as a foundation for growth and enlightenment. They are often the springbroad which propels individuals or groups upward and outward. And, even though collaboration is most often a key consideration when determing partnerships and the role of involved entities, a common goal provides the required motivation. The level of involvement and the degree of input shared between two or more sources can ultimately determine success. In this issue of FS&U, Fayetteville State University examines some of its strategic alliances and takes pride in highlighting the partnerships that help educate with a global perspective our students and our community. FS&U invites you to join hands with the state’s second oldest public instituion of higher learning as we move together toward a tomorrow bright with possibilities and a horizon with unlimited potential.

On The Cover: Examining the new FSU microprobe are Dr. Steven Singletary, assistant professor in the Department of Natural Sciences; Elida Kirkland, Cross Creek Early College High School (CCECHS) Senior majoring in Biology; DeVonda Hunter, CCECHS Senior majoring in Biology; and Jessica Diaz, FSU Sophomore majoring in computer science.

Partnerships

Table of Contents Microprobe Photo

Pg 15 The partnership between Fayetteville State Unviersity and the University of North Carolina at Pembroke has resulted in the acquisition of a microprobe to support sciencific study and research at both institutions while opening the door for further collaboration with public and private sectors.

MSW Partners to Graduate First U.S. Army Class

3

Faculty Focus: Dr. Terri Moore-Brown

4

Innovation through Collaboration: FSU’s BRAC Response

5

A Tale of Wounded Warriors and Educators

7

Cumberland County School System at FSU

9

2009 Homecoming in Review

10

Two Rivers Classic Retrospect

12

West Coast Meets East Coast

13

YMCA Partners for Wellness Program

14

Fayetteville State Receives Rare Electron Microprobe

15

The FSU Male Initiative

18

Giving to FSU

19

Student Government Association Updates

19

Overcoming Adversity and Making New Opportunities

20

FSU Enjoys Relationship with Chamber

20

Students Study Abroad in Africa

21

Alumni Spotlight

22

The Case for Giving to FSU Now

24

Nursing Partnership

26

Seamless Transition from Tech School to University

28

FSU Collaborates for Fire Science Program

29

Jazz on the River Pictorial

31

Faith Initiative Partners with Area Churches

32

pg 1

Fall 2009

Dear FSU Alumni, Family, and Friends, Welcome to the Fall/Winter issue of FS&U magazine. I am excited to share this publication with you, because it will now be the main medium used to tell the Fayetteville State University (FSU) story. While the mainstream media plays an integral part in reporting what we do at FSU, we realize they can’t always convey our news in a way that articulates the many successes we have achieved. This magazine will serve in that capacity.

As you read your copy of FS&U, you will notice that its content is more of a scholarly nature. As an institution of higher learning that is trying to make an even greater impact in this state, region, and nation, we feel that it is important to keep you informed of the achievements by our students and the scholarly research and work of our world-class faculty. At the same time, it contains the types of features that give you an idea of the many exciting things that are going on here.

I hope you enjoy this issue of FS&U and the approach the university has taken to deliver its message. In it you will find stories about our microprobe, a piece of scientific equipment that will put FSU on the cutting edge of research worldwide. It also contains stories about the many partnerships we have formulated with outside entities who want to be a part of what we are doing here at FSU. I am receptive to any feedback and welcome any ideas you have for articles to be included in this publication. Your concerns matter.

In the Bronco Spirit,

James A. Anderson Chancellor Publisher Fayetteville State University, Division of Institutional Advancement; Managing Editors Ben C. Minter, Jeffery M. Womble; Editorial Staff Jeffery M. Womble, Laurie Willis; Thad Mumau; Creative Staff Ben C. Minter, LaWon Williams, Stacey Robinson; Photography Dennis McNair, Steve Aldridge, LaWon Williams, Gordon Kinlaw.

FS&U (Fayetteville State and You) is published twice annually in the interest of Fayetteville State University. All items may be reproduced with credit to Fayetteville State University. POSTMASTER: Send address changes or corrections to FS&U Magazine, Fayetteville State University, 1200 Murchison Road, Fayetteville, NC 28301. Subscription is free. Editorial submissions may be sent to the same address. Submission of photographs, articles, and other materials is encouraged, but done at the risk of the sender. Fayetteville State University cannot accept liability for loss or damage of submitted items. Unsolicited materials will not be returned. Articles will be published at the discretion of FS&U and may be edited for content and space availability.

38,000 copies of this publication were printed at a cost of $26,576 or $.69 per copy.

Fayetteville State University is proud to be a constituent institution of The University of North Carolina.

Visit us on the web at www.uncfsu.edu Pg 2

Fort Sam Houston

F

ayetteville State University is partnering with the United States Army in a program which offers Master’s or a Master of Social Work degree. It is taking place at Fort Sam Houston in Texas. Dr. Terri Moore-Brown, the chair of the Fayetteville State Department of Social Work, is directing this unique program that graduated an initial class of 16 students in August.

“The Army has had social workers since the early 1900s,” Brown said, “but this is the first time the U.S. Army has partnered with a university for the profession of social work. Over the years, the Army has done that in several other areas. “The reason this is so important is that the Army officers at Fort Sam Houston have experience in military life and they know the military culture. In the past, the Army recruited officers with Master’s degrees in social work, but they were just civilians coming into the Army. “They did not know what it was like to do social work in a combat zone or with families whose loved ones were either deployed or had been deployed.”

Brown emphasized how important it is for people who already have the background of dealing with such intense experiences to be qualified as social workers in the military environment. Fayetteville State was chosen from universities all over the nation in response to the Army’s request for universities with accredited Masters of Social Work programs. The competition was fierce. FSU submitted a proposal to establish a Masters of Social Work program at a military base, and they selected us. Brown said Fayetteville State has something special to offer in this area. We are surrounded by Fort Bragg, Pope Air Force Base and Seymour Johnson Air Force Base (in Goldsboro, NC). We have military social work content integrated into our curriculum. When students graduate from our social work program, they have a familiarity with the military culture, practices and problems.

said there are so many things to deal with in social work involved with military families. “Deployed soldiers come home and have to adjust to their families again, and their families have to adjust to them as well. These are unusual circumstances, and dealing with them requires some special knowledge and background, she said.

The professors who teach in the Masters of Social Work program at Fort Sam Houston are recruited in Texas. The majority of the faculty members, all of whom have their doctorate degrees, are active duty Army and have experience in social

work practice. The faculty is hired by the U.S. Army. The Fayetteville State social work faculty works with the faculty at Fort Sam Houston, providing information about the FSU curriculum and administering the overall program.

“We are excited about our first graduating class,” Brown said, “and the early success of the program. The Army is saying it is willing to invest millions of dollars in its social work program, and we at Fayetteville State are looking forward to a long-term relationship.”

Since the inception of the FSU Masters of Social Work program in 2003, part of its mission statement has been to prepare students to work with persons from rural, urban, and military settings. Brown Pg 3

Faculty Focus: Dr. Terri Moore-Brown as chair for the Department of Sociology, Social Work, and Criminal Justice at Methodist University for two years.

Faculty Focus is a twice-per-year feature spotlighting on the world-class scholars at Fayetteville State University. For the Fall/Winter 2009 issue of FS&U, the spotlight shines on Dr. Terri Moore-Brown, associate professor and chair of the Master of Social Work program.

Q: Where are you originally from?

A: I was born in Berlin Germany, and I primarily grew up in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

My father was in the Air Force. When I turned seven years old my father was stationed at Pope Air Force Base. As a result, I grew up on Fort Bragg and attended Holbrook Elementary School. I attended Lewis Chapel Middle School and graduated for 71st High School which is located in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Q: Where did you earn your degrees and in what areas?

A: I received my BA degree from Methodist University. I had a double major in Social Work and Sociology and I minored in Business Administration. I received my Master of Social Work degree from East Carolina University.

I received my doctorate in Higher Education Administration from North Carolina State.

Q: How long have you been at FSU? A: I am completing my eighth year at FSU. Q: How long have you been department chair?

A: I’ve served as department chair for the Department of Social Work at Fayetteville State University since 2002 (7 years). I also served Pg 4

Q: How long have you been a social worker and how did you become interested in the field?

A: Originally, as an undergraduate student I wanted to double major in Sociology and Business Administration; however, I took as a course elective Introduction to Social Work. What can I say? It was love at first sight! As a result, I doubled major in Social Work and Sociology and minored in Business Administration. Following my graduation from Methodist University I served as a school social worker for the Cumberland County School system during the day and during the evenings, I served as a child care counselor for Cumberland Hospital Adolescent Inpatient Unit. After one year of employment, I decided to pursue my master’s degree in Social Work at East Carolina University. Upon graduation I served as a child protective service social worker at both Cumberland County Department of Social Services and Wake County Department of Social Services in Raleigh, N.C. I also served as a Clinical Social Worker at Cumberland Hospital.

Q: What are some of your professional affiliations?

A: Chairperson, NC National Association of Social Workers-Fayetteville Unit Progrram; Council on Social Work Education; National Association of Black Social Workers; Academy of Certified Social Workers; Phi Alpha Honor Society; National Association of Deans and Directors of Schools of Social Work.–––– Q: The MSW program at FSU is one of the most popular graduate areas. To what or whom do you attribute the success of the program?

A: We have outstanding social work faculty and field instructors who have a passion for social work. I feel this passion is contagious and is increasing the number of persons applying to our MSW Program.

Q: How many faculty and support staff members are there in the MSW program?

A: We have ten full-time on-campus social work faculty members and two Administrative Associate Support staff members. Our offcampus MSW Program at Fort Sam Houston, Texas has five social work faculty members and one Administrative Associate Support Staff member, Dr. Dexter Freeman, Director, FSUArmy Master of Social Work Program.

Q: How does it feel knowing that you were instrumental in the building of the MSW program from the ground up?

A: Well, first we have to take the “you” out of the question because the establishment of the Social Work Department and the MSW Program was a campus-wide endeavor. When I interviewed for my position, I felt right away that the FSU administration and faculty wanted this MSW Program. There was excitement in the air, and I was ensured that I would receive the support that was needed to make this university’s vision a reality. I am very grateful for FSU giving me an opportunity to serve with great administrators, faculty and students to establish a social work program that is critically needed throughout the service region of FSU and the state of North Carolina.

Q: What has been the biggest achievement for the MSW program to date?

A: We have the Child Welfare Collaborative Program. The Collaborative provides financial support for MSW students by way of tuition, travel expenses and books and fees. Eligible FSU MSW Scholars receive service awards of $10,000 per academic year. In 2008-2009 academic school year, educational and financial support was provided for seven (7) Master of Social Work (MSW) Scholars; and educational support for one (1) Waiver MSW student. Ms. Debra L.L. Brown is the coordinator for this program.

We have our part-time Weekend MSW Program, which started at the beginning of the 2009 fall semester. MSW applicants, who are employed or have extensive commitments, are encouraged to consider part-time study. The program is designed to accommodate students who, because of employment, family or finances cannot enroll as full-time students. Dr. Oliver Johnson serves as the Part-time Weekend MSW Program Coordinator.

And last but not least, we have an off-campus FSU-Army MSW Program at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, which has brought national recognition to Fayetteville State University. In February 2008, The Fayetteville State University Department of Social Work partnered with the United States Army to establish a Master of Social Work Program at Fort Sam Houston, Texas in order to meet the military’s increased demand for social work officers and Department of the Army civilian practitioners. This is the first time the U. S. Army has partnered with a university within the University of North Carolina (UNC) system, and with a historically black college and university (HBCU) to establish a full-time MSW Program at Army Medical Center and School.

Innovation through Collaboration: FSU’s BRAC Response By 2011, there will be more General Officers stationed at Ft. Bragg than any other installation in the country, except the Pentagon.

Through the 2005 BRAC Federal Legislation -- Base Realignment and Closure -- Ft. Bragg will become the Army’s Headquarters, and hence, the largest such base in the country by 2011. As confirmed by Retired General Paul Dordal, Executive Director of the BRAC Regional Task Force, “The US Army Forces Command (FORSCOM) and the US Army Reserve Command (USARC) Headquarters will transfer approximately 3,000 positions (including senior decision makers that manage more than $30 billion of Department Of Defense budget) from Atlanta to Ft. Bragg by 2011.” In its September 2008 Comprehensive Regional Growth Plan, Training and Development Associates, Inc. reported that the region’s population is projected to grow by 40,000 additional people due to this Four-Star headquarters. Of the 19,200 jobs

that will be created as a result of growth at Fort Bragg, 4,024 will be active-duty military jobs; 2,146 will be military civilian jobs; 1972 will be embedded contractor jobs; 1,000 will be private defense contractors; and 11,044 jobs will be created in the local economy to support increased population and military spending.

FSU’s BRAC Response:

The Center for Defense and Homeland Security

On July 21st 2009, Chancellor James Anderson approved the ‘Intent to Plan,” the proposed Center for Defense and Homeland Security, in collaboration with the Base Realignment and Closure Regional Task Force (BRAC RTF) and Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC). The Center for Defense and Homeland Security will be established as an institutional Center at Fayetteville State University, under the auspices of Chancellor James Anderson, with the primary purpose to develop the intellectual capital and business intelligence necessary to analyze and understand Defense and Homeland Security (D&HS) programs and to connect UNC and other North Carolina assets with Department of Defense and Homeland Security programs.

To achieve this objective the Center will engage other UNC

System institutions, state and federal government entities, and corporate partners to enhance North Carolina’s competitiveness for military industrial investments statewide. Both Chancellor James Anderson and Dr. Thomas Conway, Chief of Staff, and Vice Chancellor, are leading the FSU efforts to standing up

To satisfy the need for a highskilled workforce, and prepare for the economic transformation of the Ft. Bragg region, the Division of Academic Affairs, under the leadership of Dr. Jon Young, Provost and Vice Chancellor, is developing collaborative

the Department of Social Work received a U.S. Army fouryear contract for the Master of Social Work Program (MSW) at Fayetteville State University (FSU) to establish an off-campus MSW Program at the Fort Sam Houston military installation, which is located in Texas. The Bachelor of Science in Intelligence Studies program is pending approval from the UNC General Administration, while academic programs are being developed in Emergency Management; Environmental Studies; International Studies; and Public Administration (with a focus on Rural Communities).

The College of Arts and Sciences is also home to the Southeastern North Carolina Regional Microanalytical and Imaging Center (SENCR-MIC), which houses one of seven electron microprobes in the world. In the School of Business and Economics, Dean Tavaloki and his faculty are developing Certificate Programs in Supply Chain Management; Project

interdisciplinary academic programs and initiatives that will maximize the subject matter expertise of FSU’s faculty. Under the leadership of Dean Barlow, an interdisciplinary group of faculty in the College of Arts and Sciences is developing a research focus in Sustainability and Disaster Recovery. Additionally,

Management; Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA); Oracle PL/SQL; and an Advanced Certificate in Human Resource Management (HRM). In addition, Dr. Pamela Jackson, Mr. Floyd Shorter and other FSU scholars are collaborating with UNC-P to assess “Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Populations”

the Center for Defense and Homeland Security at Fayetteville State University. In a June 12 Fayetteville Observer article Chancellor Anderson was absolutely enthusiastic about the prospect of the Center being housed at an HBCU, and stated that, “We want to do something in FSU’s history that has never been done.” The other three areas of focus include: Education; 21st Century Workforce Development, and the Global Center of Excellence for Critical Infrastructure Protection and Economic Transformation.

FSU’s BRAC Response:

Academic Program Development

Pg 5

within the 11 county BRAC region, to ensure workforce needs are addressed. In the School of Education, Dean Lewis and her faculty are meticulously developing the next generation of K-12 teachers, and administrators to meet the needs of the families migrating into the Ft. Bragg region, while expanding its “Troops to Teachers” and “Spouse to Teachers” programs. Dr. Lewis and a group of education faculty are beginning to investigate the pedagogy of i3D, and virtual reality full sensory immersion technologies like Second Life and Internet games, for their implications for teaching and learning 21st Century skills and content, to equip pre-and -inservice teachers in the region.

Further, the School of Education is positioning itself to better address the shortage of science and math teachers, in the state, and specifically in rural areas.

FSU’s BRAC Response:

Greater Fayetteville Futures II According to Co-Chair, Mayor Tony Chavonne, “…the Greater Fayetteville Futures II is a community wide initiative that will serve as the catalyst for continued positive change in our region.” This community

development initiative brings together stakeholders and citizens from across the Fayetteville/ Cumberland County region to work towards the common vision of preparing the community for BRAC and beyond. During a February 2009 GFF II briefing, Dr. Keen, President of FTCC acknowledged that, Greater Fayetteville Futures II is a unity of several regional Pg 6

initiatives such as Pathways to Possibilities; Municipality Partnerships; Environment and Sustainability; Communications; Economic Development; BRAC Regional Task Force; Training and Development Associates (TDA), Inc. and the Comprehensive Regional Growth Plan. Under the leadership of Chancellor Anderson, Fayetteville State University has significantly invested resources towards the success of the Greater Fayetteville Futures II initiative, by committing 27 administrators, faculty, and staff to work on the 10 Greater Fayetteville Futures II Objectives.

Although each VFO is extremely important for the Fayetteville/ Cumberland County community, none can sustain itself if the team is not successful in “Creating a Model Education System that Supports and Networks Workforce Readiness and Sustainable Innovations -- VFI #1.” This activity is directed by Chancellor Anderson and Dr. Keen. Further, Dr. Conway, FSU’s Chief of Staff, leads a team of highly-skilled Subject Matter Experts in the design and implement of the All American Center for Workforce Innovation; the identification of new migrants to Cumberland County and matched needed

educational skills based on BRAC; the development of an entrepreneurial philosophy and approach that covers all subject matter arenas at all levels of the education enterprise; and, the challenge to increase the quality of licensed early care and education centers/homes in Cumberland County.

FSU’s BRAC Response:

Distributed Learning Network FSU is engaged in the 21st Century Distributed Learning Network initiative, which is designed to collaborate with High Schools, Community Colleges, Universities, and Industry, to build the capacity of an innovative and sustainable workforce. This collaborative model will provide opportunities to develop a 2+2+2 (High School + Community College + University) education to jobs continuum. In his October 21st correspondence, General Dordal established that, “…the idea is to provide an enriched learning environment for students to utilize technology when it is appropriate, and give students keys to learning experiences available beyond the walls of the classroom … by adding subject matter experts from other institutions through the telepresence to assist students with their learning.”

The MCNC STEM-Gates Foundation and the Kenan Fellows Program NSF Noyce II Grant are pivotal to the success of the distributed learning network initiative in the 11-county BRAC region. Currently, FSU’s Associate Vice Chancellor for Academic

Program Development, Dr. Curtis Charles, chairs the 11-county BRAC region STEM Community Collaborative Design Team. “The North Carolina STEM Community Collaborative, funded through generous support of MCNC, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and community partners, recognizes that community

collaboration is the lever to ensure sustainable innovation in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education,” said Karl T. Rectanus. The NC STEM Collaborative builds the capacity of local communities (like the 11-county BRAC region), to create innovative and sustainable educational programs that are characterized by individualization, quality and scalability. NC STEM supports successful 21st century teaching and learning in North Carolina, and recognizes the importance of engaging students in digital-age learning, preparing students to be ready to enter the workforce.

In an interrelated manner the Kenan Fellows NSF grant will establish fellowships for the most outstanding K-12 teachers in the 11-county Base Realignment and Closure/Regional Task Force area. “Through Externships K-12 Master teachers will collaborate with University and industry STEM scholars to address the critical need for upgrades in the region’s commitment to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education,” said Dr. Valerie B. Brown-Schild, Director, Kenan Fellows Program.

The College of Arts and Sciences submitted 12 STEM research externship proposals, while the

School of Education submitted one i3D pedagogy proposal. The Kenan Fellows Program NSF Noyce II Grant will select eighteen externship sites across the 11county BRAC region.

Introduction

John Dewey, father of modern American education, once said that a problem is no more than a “felt difficulty.” Educating America’s wounded warriors is just such a challenge. It is one that Fayetteville State University (FSU) has taken head-on. FSU is a public, regional university located ten miles from one of America’s largest military bases, Fort Bragg, North Carolina. With over 6,000 undergraduate and graduate students, FSU as an Historically Black College or University holds the distinction as the second oldest in the UNC system founded in 1867.

Although primarily a commuter campus with over 80% of students residing off campus, nearly all firstyear students live in campus housing designated primarily for this population.

A Challenge

For FSU, seeing Soldiers on campus is not unusual. Yet there is a corp of unseen Soldiers known as wounded warriors who seldom if ever step onto a college campus. At Fort Bragg they are officially part of the Army’s Wounded Warrior (AW2) program. A preponderance of their injuries is either Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSD) or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). According to Science Daily (April 19, 2008), nearly 20% of military service members who have returned from Iraq or Afghanistan—300,000 in all—report symptoms of PTSD or major depression, yet only slightly more than half have sought treatment according to a 2008 Rand Corporation study. These “walking wounded” appear normal to the casual observe but after returning to an America where neither war is on the radar screen very much, their sense of frustration can be summed up as “the Army went to war; America went to the mall.” It is no wonder that many Soldiers become angry at what they find on their return. But what can colleges do to facilitate their transition back into our society?

FSU, with its satellite campus at Fort Bragg, is no stranger to the needs of Soldiers and their families.

After multiple tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan as a Soldier, FSU’s Special Advisor to the Provost for Military Affairs happened to have a water-cooler conversation with Ms. Pat Mullins, the Assistant Director at the Education Services Office on Fort Bragg which oversees nearly a dozen colleges on post. The director wondered, “Besides convalescing from wounds, what happens to wounded warriors upon their return to Fort Bragg? Pat, who was about to deploy to Iraq as a Department of Defense Civilian, explained that a Warrior Transition Battalion existed on post and is affiliated with Bragg’s Womack Army Medical Hospital Center. After months of rehabilitation, a typical AW2 is either sent back to his/her unit or, more typically, released from the Army and sent home. Beyond endless days of sometimes painful rehabilitation treatments, most AW2s have “time on their hands.” The conversation then turned to education: “Why don’t they take college courses while they’re recovering?”

Pat’s answer planted the seed from which the FSU Wounded Warrior Initiative program would be borne.

A Response

As it happens, starting an educational program for AW2 members was not a novel idea. Pat explained that in October 2007 her counterpart at Fort Campbell, KY initiated a very successful education program for the Warrior Transition Unit (WTU) called, “The Army Continuing Education System and OnPost Schools Education Initiative at Fort Campbell” (also known as the WTU Civilian Education Initiative). The Special Advisor to the Provost for Military Affairs contacted Ft. Campbell to discuss how FSU could help wounded warriors. After much coaching, it was decided that an incremental approach would work bet. Taking this “crawl, walk, run” approach, the Special Advisor to the Provost for Military Affairs

developed a proposal for key FSU administrators to consider and began simultaneously building a “coalition of the willing” among representatives from FSU, the ESO Center and the Ft. Bragg WTB. Key players in the acceptance of this process were FSU leaders (Chancellor James Anderson, Provost Jon Young, and UC Director John Brooks), the ESO Director (Ms. Brenda Taylor Brooks), Education Specialistsfrom Ft. Bragg’s Soldier and Family Assistance Center (Mr. Bobby Key and Roosevelt Harp), AW2 Advocate (Mr. Clyde Foster), Womack Army Medical Center Commander (Colonel Nadja West), and WTB Battalion Commander (Lieutenant Colonel Jay Thornton). After multiple meetings in the fall of 2008 and early spring of 2009, all agreed that education services for WTB Soldiers would be a priority.

From the FSU perspective, in an email from the Provost dated February 2008, the Provost stated, “Support of this program is a top priority for FSU… It is very important to FSU.” The University’s executive cabinet voted to waive all feeds for AW2 participants in the program (tuition, of course, would be paid through the Army’s Tuition Assistance program). The Chancellor approved his cabinet’s recommendation on February 23, 2009. Thus, FSU and Ft. Bragg’s first-ever Wounded Warrior Academic Success Initiative was officially born. And thanks to the initiative taken by the UC Director, Dr. Brooks, books were provided free of charge courtesy of Mike and Liz Miskin of Tapestry Press. The program continues to thrive thanks to the current leadership of the WTB (i.e., LTC Terence McDowell and CSM Alvin Brown).

A Program

It was determined that a hybrid version of FSU’s University 110 would be offered as a pilot program and would be named “Academic Success Strategies.” Emphasis would be on transition issues and

A Tale of Wounded Warriors and Educators: University College Comes to the Aid of Soldiers Drs David Allen and John Brooks

Pg 7

success strategies for college bound veterans.

Four key themes are introduced in this two-credit hour class: (1) Time Management, (2) Listening, Note Taking and Writing, (3) Critical Thinking Skills, and (4) Reading, Study Skills and Test Taking Skills.

All of these topics were spread across five weeks.

Soldiers meet three times a week for two hours each. The pilot course was offered between March 16 and April 15, 2009 and enrolled 10 Soldiers.

The fall 2009 class begins 24 August and ends 25 September. It too has 10 hand-picked AW2 volunteers registered to date. Students are admitted as Special Visiting students. The course is restricted to WTB Soldiers only. The course was purposely housed in FSU’s University College (UC).

The goals of the UC are to assist all students in their transition to the university; to provide effective mentoring and advisement to undeclared students; to offer strong programs of academic support in reading, writing, mathematics, and other subjects; and to work with other academic units to ensure that students develop the fundamental skills and knowledge necessary for success in all academic majors.

The UC is the only component of Fayetteville State University completely dedicated to assisting students in their transition to college and orienting them to life at FSU. The UC is primarily the academic home for undeclared students. The UC is the central home for the core curriculum and campus-wide academic support services. All students are part of the University College until they are admitted to a major degree program in the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business and Economics, or the School of Education. The University College seeks to provide an academic environment that will enable and motivate students of varied background to achieve academic success.

Additionally, the UC manages the Early Alert Warning System which allows faculty members to inform the University of students who are experiencing academic difficulty. This information is submitted to the student’s advisor who advises the student on ways to improve. In essence, the UC was the perfect fit for an academic success course to be offered to wounded Soldiers.

Conclusion

FSU believes sincerely that this joint partnership among the FSU, the Warrior Transition Battalion, and Education Services Office at Ft. Bragg comes with a strong feeling by all that this is very worthwhile, something we should be doing anyway for these Soldiers who have sacrificed so much. Nationally, the AW2 program has high visibility, is long term and will increase in number as the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan wind down. Therefore, education programs targeted exclusively to AW2 members is a proactive way to meet the educational needs of this most deserving group of Soldiers. Where the future will take FSU’s AW2 Academic Success Strategies program is unknown. For now, institutional buy-in remains strong, command support is pervasive and AW2 Soldiers remain eager to learn, grow and achieve as they prepare for life ahead.

Several lessons were learned from the pilot course.

It was clear that the course serves as a positive factor in Soldier healing. Toward that end, offering only one course per term seems reasonable so far. Vital to the success of the program is clear coordination and communication with the WTB Command. Their support of education is critical and FSU must continue to work closely not only with the WTB but also with the ESO staff to meet Soldiers’ needs. This Pg 8

program has instilled in all who come in contact with it a continued sense of pride in providing services tailored to those who have sacrificed for so many in the name of freedom.

Resources

Programs such as the WTB Academic Success Strategies course are great ways to get Soldiers who are wounded and about to launch into the civilian world equipped and on their way to a college degree or subsequent job. Their road leading to where they currently are has not been easy. The typical wounded warrior must complete and file over 20 forms following an active duty injury. To many Soldiers and their families coping with the shock and reality of injuries, figuring out what to do next—even completing tasks as seemingly easy as submitting paperwork—can be overwhelming and confusing. FSU’s program will hopefully ease the challenge of reintegrating into everyday life and provides tips and resources for succeeding. Educators can play a major role in facilitating the difficult transition from wounded warrior to productive citizen veteran.

Army Reserve Family Programs (Online): www.arfp.org, usarc_wfac@usar.army.mil, 866-3458248

Recommendations for future iterations of this program include: 1. Opening the course to WTB cadre and family members of WTB Soldiers, 2. Provide in-service training on TBI and PTSD for ACES and college staffs and faculty. (This

is important given comments by Soldiers in the first pilot regarding the difficulties in transitioning to college and in their memory challenges as well as ability to focus.)

3. Consider forming a WTB Education Council to facilitate communication among the ACES,

the WTB Command and FSU officials to ensure Soldiers’ needs are met.

4. Conduct a WTB Education Fair.

5. Consider formalizing a memorandum of under standing signed by FSU, the WTB and ESO. 6. Follow-up with “alumni” of the WTB Academic Success Strategies course.

Testimonial from Tapestry Press (email dated August 21, 2009): Tapestry Press, a small college publisher, is owned and operated by a husband and wife team. We have been serving the college market for over 20 years and have worked with Fayetteville State a number of those years on its first year course materials. We have especially enjoyed our relationship with John Brooks. John has been tireless in his dedication to University College.

When John informed us about the Wounded Warrior Program we were inspired by these wonderfully brave men and women who have trained so hard to be specialists. We were more than happy to donate our books to Dave Allen’s wonderful initiative and we hope this course will be the starting point for the soldiers’ future successes. In its small way we felt we were contributing something to those who have given so much to the rest of us.

Allen, D. (in press). Freedom Express: Caught Between Iraq and a Hard Place. Atlanta, GA: Deeds Publishing, Inc. (www.deedspublishing.com).

Cantrell, B.C. and Dean, C. (2005). Down Range: to Iraq and Back. Seattle, WA: WordSmith Publishing.

Casualties.org. Retrieved October 20, 2008, from http://icasualties.org/oif/ GI Bill 2008: New GI Bill Signed Into Law June 30, 2008. Retrieved October 20, 2008 from http://www. gibill2008.org Levinson, D. (1986). Seasons of a Man’s Life.

Canada: Ballantine Press.

Military OneSource. Retrieved October 20, 2008 from http://www.militaryonesource.com National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Retrieved October 20, 2008 at http://www.ncptsd. org RAND Corporation (2008, April 19). “One in Five Iraq or Afghanistan Veterans Suffer from PTSD or Major Depression.” Science Daily. Retrieved October 20, 2008, from http://www.sciencedaily.com/ releases/2008/04/080417112102.htm Stilglitz, J.E. and Bilmes, L.J. (2008). The Three Trillion Dollar War: The True Cost of the Iraq Conflict. New York: Norton Press.

US Department of Veterans Affairs. Retrieved October 20, 2008, from http://www.gibill.va.gov Wounded Warriors Project, www.woundedwarriorsproject.org

David Allen, Ph.D., US Army Reserves (Colonel, Retired July 08), is the Special Advisor to the Provost for Military Affairs at Fayetteville State University and has completed multiple combat zone deployments to include Afghanistan (200203) and Iraq (2005, 2007-08).

John Brooks, Ph.D., Director of University College (UC) and Associate Professor has effectively led the UC program and been employed by FSU since 1998.

Liz and Mike Miskin President and Founder Tapestry Press, Ltd.

Dr. John Brooks; Tapestry Press President Mike Miskin; Tapestry Press Publisher Liz Larsen; and Dr. David Allen.

Cross Creek Early College High School:

Cumberland County Partners with FSU

I

f you want a really good feeling, the kind that puts a smile on your face and warms your heart, spend some time in the Butler Building at Fayetteville State University -- where it’s all about education, and where Cross Creek Early College High School, in its fifth year, embodies the spirit of education and what it should entail.

FSU’s partnership with Cross Creek began in 2004 when officials began planning to house a high school on campus. But if you stop

by Butler to check out CCECHS, you’ll quickly realize it has evolved into much more than a high school.

“Our students begin taking college courses in the 10th grade and become almost fully immersed in college courses as seniors in high school,” said Principal Mindy Vickers. “Our students have been allowed to participate in extra activities such as the FSU Choir, drama productions, and we have students enrolled in Air Force ROTC as seniors. Additionally, our students have been afforded opportunities to do summer research internships, and they have been offered the opportunity to do research using a Scanning Electron Microscope, a type of which there are only seven in the world.”

Vickers has been Cross Creek’s principal since the school opened in August 2005 and can’t say enough about the way Fayetteville State University administrators support it. She said FSU went above and beyond to help our students find financial aid and scholarship money to help them defray the cost of attending college. As a result, 31 of the 65 students from our 2009 graduating class are currently enrolled at FSU full time. It really is a partnership based on helping students become better versions of themselves through educational opportunities and experiences.

Cross Creek Early College High School’s maximum enrollment is 300. Of its 249 students, 71.5 percent are African-American, 18.5 percent are white, 4.8 percent are Hispanic, 4.8 percent are multiracial and 0.4 percent are Asian.

Females are the majority, at 66 percent. Enrollment in the senior class is down a bit from last year, but this is only the second year Cross Creek has had students at all four grade levels. “We are still learning how this works as this is the first time we’ve had a similar year two times in a row in terms of our size and growth,” Vickers said. “We are finishing up our grant cycle so there will be financial changes in that our budget will get substantially smaller, although I do not see that drastically changing the way we do things.”

If Fayetteville State officials have a say in that, things won’t drastically change. Vickers said CCECHS’s relationship with FSU is fantastic and built so strongly on doing the right thing for all children.” “We both do our part to support one another, promote one another, help one another, and we both seek opportunities to find ways to involve our students

“Our students begin taking college courses in the 10th grade and become almost fully immersed in college courses as seniors in high school, . . . .” and facilities in each other’s environment.”

Early College High Schools are designed to assist lowincome youth, first-generation college-goers, English language learners, students of color, and other young people who are often underrepresented in higher education simultaneously earn a high school diploma and an associate’s degree – or up to two years of credit toward a bachelor’s degree. It’s all tuition free. The schools have been “catching on” in the United States for several years. In fact since 2002, the partnership organizations of the Early College High School Initiative have started or re-designed more than 200 schools in 24 states and Washington, D.C., according to information on their home page. Officials say they expect to ultimately open about 250 small schools, serving over 100,000 students annually.

Vickers said the schools are “relatively new” here but North Carolina leads the nation with the number of early/middle colleges.

Statistics from the Early College High School Initiative show more than five dozen early colleges statewide. “There are a few schools that have been around for a long time, 15 to 20 years … but they really took hold in North Carolina beginning in 2004 as a result of the Learn and Earn Initiative pushed by former Gov. Mike Easley and with the financial support of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation,” Vickers said.

Lamont Sparrow, the Early College High School Liaison at FSU, works closely with Vickers.

He assists with developing four- or five-year plans of study combining secondary and postsecondary coursework to ensure the attainment of transferable college credits, assists with registration, facilitates curriculum planning between secondary and post-secondary subject areas, coordinates professional development between college and high school staff, teaches units of instruction to students in higher education programs, submits required reports and uses course text, outlines, syllabi and other curriculum materials in accordance with college and department guidelines.

Like Vickers, Sparrow is proud of Cross Creek Early College High School. Sparrow said. FSU is the model school for North Carolina and other states. “It is really difficult to describe,” Sparrow said.

“You just have to come observe how we conduct ourselves. We push our students to be the best and never allow them to settle for second best. There have been times when CCECHS students performed better in class than the traditional students.”

The support of Fayetteville State University Chancellor James A. Anderson is among many reasons CCECHS is thriving, Sparrow said.

“We blend high school and college in a rigorous, yet supportive program, compressing the time it takes to complete a high school diploma and the first two years of college,” he said. “Continue to look for great things from Cross Creek Early College High School.”

Pg 9

Fayetteville State University FSU Broncos vs. St. Augustine’s Falcons

Final Score 56-06! Bronco Victory!

0

Homec

The Homecoming Game placed the FSU Broncos as CIAA Western Division Champions and secured a spot in the CIAA Football Championship Game.

Pg 10

9

coming

BR NCOS

Homecoming Parade – 127 Entries!

Alumnus Hector McEachern ’69 Grand Marshal Miss Homecoming ’09 Miss Angel Robinson Mr. Homecoming ’09 Mr. Dexter Days

Pg 11

Athletics and Academics Equal A Strong Partnership Fayetteville State University and the University of North Carolina at Pembroke have established a good professional relationship, so good that the two schools jointly own a Electron Microprobe, of which only 16 exist worldwide. But just don’t expect that camaraderie to spill over onto the gridiron.

This year for the first time, FSU and UNC-P played in The Two Rivers Classic, which officials hope will become an annual event between the schools. The game was played in Nick Jeralds Stadium at Fayetteville State, and the Braves defeated the Broncos 41-34 in double overtime.

UNC-Pembroke and Fayetteville State had agreed to play, a contract was signed, and then both administrations agreed to call it The Two Rivers Classic, said Pembroke Head Football Coach Pete Shinnick. FSU Athletic Director Dr. Edward McLean said The Two Rivers Classic was his idea. After all, he started a similar classic while working at Elizabeth City State University. “The Two Rivers Classic will bring excitement to our alumni and the area,” McLean said. “I think it was one of the most exciting games Broncos fans have witnessed in a very long time.”

Shinnick has been Pembroke’s head football coach for four years.

He said his coaching staff, players and Pembroke fans all had fun at The Two Rivers Classic, named after the Cape Fear and Lumber Pg 12

rivers. Of course, it didn’t hurt that Pembroke won the game – on FSU’s turf no less. “It was an exciting opportunity for both teams,” Shinnick said. “It brought a lot of attention to both teams and to both programs, and it turned out to be a great event. It was a lot of fun, not just the game itself but the events that accompanied it, like the punt/pass/kick competition and the golf tournament.”

More than 8,000 people attended the game, McLean said.

He said the teams signed a fouryear contract to play each other after about a year of negotiations.

Next year’s contest will be at UNC-Pembroke, and it’s possible the contract could eventually be extended. UNC-Pembroke isn’t involved with any other “classic” games, Shinnick said. Likewise, McLean said he didn’t think FSU was part of a classic until this year’s event.

Shinnick couldn’t say enough about the classic.

“The players were very excited about the game,” he said.

“We’ve got a lot of players from Cumberland County so they were excited about that. I think our guys look forward to all of the publicity that comes with the game. The (local) newspapers were writing about it, so it was a neat experience. We had fantastic fan support, and there were a lot of people there at FSU that did a great job.”

in New Jersey,” said Turner. “After that camp I got a phone call from Fayetteville State and they offered me a scholarship.”

More than 2,150 miles separate Fayetteville State kicker Austin Turner from his hometown of San Diego. However, the gap between the culture of his home state and the culture the sophomore has experienced in two years at FSU might be even larger.

“North Carolina is very different from the west coast,” said Turner.

“The west coast is all I’ve known and lived in. It’s very slow and very southern, but the people here are a whole lot nicer than they are on the west coast.”

Southern standards that are commonplace in North Carolina, were foreign to Turner when he enrolled at FSU in Aug. 2008. “I’d never had sweet tea,” Turner said.

“It’s kind of thought of as an east coast thing on the west coast. I fell in love with it though and I drink like a gallon a day.”

Turner attended San Diego Mesa College after high school and then began his search for a four-year university.

“I was looking for a place to play after my first year at junior college and I went to a special teams camp

Turner, who committed to the Broncos and head coach Kenny Phillips in March 2008, said one thing about FSU stood out from other schools recruiting him.

“Trust is a big thing with me,” he said. “When I was trying to decide where to go, I felt comfortable and I trusted coach (Kenny) Phillips. He was the main one I was talking to about what they thought about me.

I wanted to go somewhere where they wanted me and FSU seemed like they wanted me. They said I was the missing piece to put them over the top.”

Added Phillips: “We had another kid on the board when got his video tape in. We really liked what we saw from him as a kicker and a punter. We were very impressed with what we saw with him.”

farther -- progress wise -- than I thought I was going to be,” Turner said. “I’m happy with the performance but I think I can get much better. My goal is to put points on the board for the Broncos and I think I’ve done my job. I was put here for a reason and I feel like my reason was to bring a championship home.”

FSU has scored 12 of 14 times it’s entered the red zone (85.7 percent), a ten percent increase from 2008, which is tied for best in the CIAA with Shaw.

“It’s a great turnaround to be able to have a guy that can make a long field goal,” Phillips said. ”His range is anywhere under 50 yards. If you can get him around 48 or 49 yards, he can make those consistently. With that kind of weapon on your side, that’s great, instead of a year ago where we had to get the ball within the 15yard line to kick a field goal.”

In the Broncos’ 30-20 win over Bowie State, Turner booted a 49yard field goal – the longest in FSU history. “Before Austin leaves here, he’ll probably own every kicking record at the university,” Phillips said. “He is going to turn out to be the best kicker to ever kick at this university.”

When asked about Phillips’ comment, Turner responded confidently. “To be the best in school history, no matter what it is, would be a great accomplishment,” he said. “It’s very humbling, but I’ve always grown up wanting to be the best in everything. I’ve been here for going on two years now, I love this place and I love the coaching staff. But, I’m looking for more. I want to be the best in CIAA history, in Division II history and in college history. I’m trying to go above and beyond.”

While his off-the-field transition has been choppy at times, Turner’s gridiron assimilation has been seamless. Through four games, Turner leads the CIAA with eight made field goals and has been named the CIAA Specialty Player of the week twice. Turner has connected on all 12 of his extra point attempts and is second in the conference in points per game (9) and punting average (39.7).

“So far, for taking almost two years off of football, I’m much Pg 13

FSU and YMCA Partner for

pretty well filled up, so having the Fayetteville State pool available means we can offer much more in the way of programs for the community and for FSU students too.”

F

ayetteville State University is getting into fitness.

The school has entered into a partnership with the YMCA which will insure that the FSU swimming pool will be used much more frequently. The university has also enhanced its Wellness Program to provide additional healthy opportunities for students and faculty.

Rick Houp, CEO of the Fayetteville YMCA, said the organization approached Fayetteville State with the idea of forming a working relationship which would benefit the community and the Y as well as the university.

FSU attorney Wanda Jenkins said FSU was in total agreement.

“We have a beautiful pool here,

Pg 14

and it was not being used nearly enough. Now it will be,” she said.

Jenkins noted that, previously, the pool was used for FSU classes and intramurals on the afternoon.

Mornings were active, with senior citizens and local high school swim teams frequently on hand. But the evening use was sporadic at best.

“We found out it was being underutilized,” Houp said, “and we thought the YMCA and Fayetteville State would be a great marriage.

Our goal is to provide programs Monday through Thursday after 6:30 p.m. There will be lifeguard classes, swimming instructions and water fitness classes (such as water aerobics). Some of the programs will be free to Fayetteville State students. Our pool at the Y is

The partnership got underway in August and has been growing since. There will be special programs involving the FSU Greek council, including competitions and recreation. Fun activities are planned such as a Caribbean boat race, splash movie night and a medieval day with water jousting. “We are trying to start a Swim for Life program,” said Audra Williams, the YMCA operations director.

“The first level will focus on water survival skills for when people unexpectedly enter the water. That will be good for everybody. The second level will be more for the fitness swimmer, with awards given for swimming long distances over a period of time.”

FSU’s Wellness Program began in 2007, with more and more programs added along the way.

“We have really enhanced it the past couple of years,” said Angela Revels-Bullard, Fayetteville State’s Associate Vice Chancellor for Human Resources. “The idea is to get more staff and faculty members involved as well as students. We want everyone to take ownership

of their health. They can do that through a number of group activities.”

Some of the areas of focus in the Wellness Program are nutrition, weight, fitness, the heart, and sun damage prevention.

“We have employee assistance programs in place for personal development,” Bullard said. “Our employee service is available 24 hours a day. For students, we offer wellness beyond physical education. More than the physical aspect, we help students do things like eat healthy and stop bad habits such as smoking or substance abuse. There is also help in managing stress. “And everything is confidential.”

Fayetteville State University Receives Rare Electron Microprobe M

icroscopes use light to magnify items too small for the naked eye and generally expand them about 1,000 times. Now imagine a much fancier microscope, one that uses electrons instead of light and enlarges images as many as 300,000 times. Sounds great, huh?

They are called electron microscopes, and while thousands are in existence, among them is a special group of electron microscopes called electron microprobes. The electron microprobe uses a field emission gun of which there is only a handful worldwide. In a joint project with the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Fayetteville State University has become home to one of those few microprobes.

The revolutionary instrument is housed in the Lyons Science Building near FSU’s planetarium.

Getting the microprobe was a lengthy process that began in October 2006, said Emily M. Dickens, Director of Community and Government Affairs. She said the UNC System has a federal relations list that is developed by each institution submitting projects for consideration and then those projects are ranked. The microprobe was ranked Number One for fiscal year 2008. From January to April 2007, FSU solicited and received letters of support from the Fort Bragg Garrison Commander, the Chamber of Commerce and the Fayetteville City Manager. Additionally, Dickens said she, former FSU Chancellor T.J. Bryan, former UNC-Pembroke Chancellor Allen C. Meadors and FSU professor Dr. Steven Singletary traveled to Washington to meet with former Sen. Elizabeth Dole, R-N.C., Sen. Richard Burr, R-N.C. and Reps. Mike McIntrye, D-N.C., and Bob Etheridge, D-N.C., to garner support.

Having a microprobe on campus is going to make a huge difference at Fayetteville State and UNC-Pembroke. The primary purpose of the instrument for both schools is for the faculty to use it and give students a chance to use it.

It will also assist them with getting advanced skills that will help them be more marketable in various professions, said Dr. Jon Young, Provost and Vice Chancellor at Fayetteville State University.

Dr. Lee Phillips, Associate Professor of Geology at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, is also Assistant Director of Southeastern N.C. Regional Microanalytical and Imaging Center (SENCR-MIC), the official name for the microprobe facility. He has served in that capacity since the Department of Defense grant for the laboratory was funded in 2008. He said bringing research capabilities of this magnitude to southeastern North Carolina will greatly enhance the research infrastructure for both UNC-P and FSU, not to mention the opportunities for our students to learn by doing. He said both institutions will be able to train interested students on how to operate these highly technical instruments thereby, better preparing them for a technical workplace.

UNC-Pembroke faculty and students will have remote access to the microprobe for course and research applications, Phillips said.

Dickens managed the federal appropriations process that led to the $1.5 million grant from the Department of Defense to purchase the microprobe. She said she will leverage the existence of the microprobe in the development of new public/private partnerships and additional federal, non-competitive resources.

She added that FSU and UNC-P will endeavor to create partnerships with all institutions that have an interest in this type of work.

Discussions are currently underway with North Carolina A&T State University and N.C. State University.

Phillips said he hopes the microprobe will become “self-sustaining” in a short amount of time. It is a “for-fee” laboratory; therefore efforts will be made to attract users. He said the schools are very excited about developing collaborations with other research scientists from around the world.

The microprobe is already generating interest that could put money in both schools’ coffers.

According to Young, people from England and China have inquired about research.

Moreover, the microprobe is the first of several instruments that will be available for use by both schools. Young said work is being done to try and get another, complementary instrument to go along with the microprobe. Some of the instruments will be (housed) at UNC-P.

Pg 15

Young said microprobes have been used for metallurgy, chemistry, environmental science, and material science. There are many varieties of applications that research across many disciplines. One can see how in chemistry and biology, looking at substances and being able to look at the composition, that can advance research, he added. A monitor will be set up outside the room housing the microprobe to enable people to see images as they’re being examined.

There’s no doubt that the military initiative called BRAC, or Military Base Realignment and Closure, helped Fayetteville State land the microprobe, Young said. He added that the microprobe is going to be especially significant for defense research, Sen. Burr fought hard for Fayetteville State and UNC-Pembroke to be successful in their bid for a microprobe. He said FSU and UNC-P are appreciative to him for the leadership he gave to make this happen.

Pg 16

Fayetteville State and UNC-Pembroke officials plan to have a grand opening ceremony for the microprobe facility to be scheduled sometime in January 2010. Faculty also hope that the microprobe will serve as a catalyst to increase the number of under-represented students who pursue advanced degrees in the sciences.

“We hope to be able to reach out to the community to excite kids about the applications of science,” Phillips said. “Many of us in the sciences were fascinated by something at a young age that helped us develop a lifelong interest that continues to drive us today. We hope the Southeastern North Carolina Microanalytical and Imaging Center will be the spark that excites local kids to become the scientists of the future.”

. . . a catalyst to increase the number of under-represented students who pursue advanced degrees in the sciences.

Pg 17

FSU Male Initiative The purpose of the Male Initiative is to establish a comprehensive program to improve access and retention and graduation rates of male students at Fayetteville State University with a special focus on academic and co-curricular support activities to achieve that end.

Fayetteville State University has established a Male Initiative Program founded through Title III funds in an effort to keep students in school and steer them toward graduation. Dean of Students Dr. Landon Hadley is the interim director of the program, which is designed to increase retention among FSU’s male students. “We are very excited about it,” Hadley said, “and so are the students, their parents and the Fayetteville State faculty. It is well received by everybody.”

It officially began at Fayetteville State on August 1.

Hadley said FSU is doing all it can to make sure freshmen come back as sophomores.

He said FSU then hopes they

will be juniors. The goal is to get each group to the next level, while making sure they have what it takes to earn their degrees.

“Of course, freshmen are so important because they face a number of obstacles – being away from home for the first time, being on their own with no one to remind them to do their school assignments and having so much time on their hands. All of a sudden, it seems they have all the time in the world, and the next thing they know, they are behind in many of their classes. We want to guide them in the right direction and remind them to stay on top of things . . . ,” Hadley said.

Fayetteville State is addressing the cognitive, psychological and social aspects of the male students. Faculty members from all these areas are available to offer guidance, expertise and help to students. “There is a big umbrella of the Male Initiative,” Hadley said. “For example, the Making of the Bronco Man is already in place, and members of that group get together and dialogue in ways which will aid the

male students. The beauty of this program is that it is a joint effort of all of the departments on campus – the faculty, the staff and the administrators. Male and female faculty members can volunteer, and we are in the process of phasing in upper-class students next semester as their involvement will be valuable as well.”

Hadley said the average freshman male population at FSU is 275. The obvious goal is that there will be 275 male graduates four years later. He said it is easy for freshmen to get behind right away and that many of them may be gone by the end of the first semester. FSU wants to prevent that from happening.

“Keeping them in school is the obvious first goal. In addition, we want to insure that they stay on track to graduate. Sometimes, students can go sideways, just doing what it takes to come back the next semester. Then, when they are seniors, they are not close to graduating. So, we will be keeping an eye on that, too, making sure they do what it takes to earn a degree.

“I don’t think a university can ever have enough outreach programs for its students,” Hadley said. “I am very happy Fayetteville State has provided this one. We are making an effort to reach out to all male students, and we are doing it through grassroots efforts.

The Male Initiative should prove to be extremely helpful.”

Pg 18

Frequently Asked Questions about

Giving to FSU

SGAUPDATES

• How should I make my gift?

Make your check payable to the Fayetteville State University Foundation and note the designation in the memo section. Mail checks to: Fayetteville State University Institutional Advancement 1200 Murchison Road Fayetteville, NC 28301 Make a secure credit/debit card gift online by logging on to www.uncfsu. edu/giving. If you are an employee of FSU, you have the option of utilizing payroll deduction to make your gift. Log on to www.uncfsu.edu/giving for a payroll deduction form.

• If I belong to an alumni chapter, how should I make my gift?

If you would like for your gift to be recognized as a member of an alumni chapter or as a member of a particular graduating class, please note the name of your chapter or class year on the memo line of your check or on the gift envelope. You are still able to designate your gift to the fund of your choice. The Office of Development will track these gifts in order to provide recognition to each alumni chapter.

• Is my gift tax-deductible?

In most cases, donors are eligible for tax deductions. Once we receive and deposit your gift, we will send you an acknowledgement letter to verify that your gift has been received. This letter also serves as a receipt for your tax purposes.

• How will my gift be recognized?

We recognize all of our donors in our Annual Report and on our online donor honor roll located at www.uncfsu.edu/ia/development. Donors of $1,000 or more receive special seating and ticket purchase opportunities for athletic events and tournaments. These donors also receive exclusive invitations to events throughout the year.

• What sort of gift is considered as a tax deductible contribution?

Cash, Checks, Credit Card, Stock, Planned Gifts, Gifts in kind (equipment, food, printed material, software, etc.)

• What are examples of support that can’t be recognized as a tax-deductible contribution?

from Monica Carson SGA President SGA Pauline Jones Leadership Academy The student government association volunteers with Pauline Jones Elementary School twice a month. The meetings are held in a classroom setting. Students are paired with a pal, who is a student at FSU, to mentor them during the course of the program. Lessons includes leadership development, parliamentary procedures (Robert’s Rules), time management, and a leader’s role in his or her community. The program has had a huge impact on the students since it’s beginning in the spring of 2009.

SGA Scholarship Campaign The SGA Scholarship Campaign is design to help generate funding for FSU student scholarships. The campaign was launched during the annual SGA week 2009. Members of the FSU Board of Trustees, Chancellor’s Cabinet, faculty, staff, administrators, and of course students, were present to help support such a great cause. The campaign will run through the entire academic year and end in the spring. 100 percent of the proceeds will be awarded in scholarships to students beginning in the fall of 2010.

Broncos Going GREEN with BLUE-TI-FUL Friday’s One of the SGA strategic goals for this academic year is Sustainability. Under the sustainability goal we have an initiative entitled Broncos Going Green. The goal of the initiative is to work towards implementing environmentally conscious and sustainable practices at Fayetteville State University. The SGA has declared every third Friday of each month a BLUE-TI-FUL Friday. BLUETI-FUL Friday is a day of community service that will be held once a month for students. Students will have the opportunity to learn about different sustainable practices that are being conducted at FSU, while participating in different activities that will enhance the look and atmosphere of the campus. We hope this program will also help enhance the OLD Bronco Pride on campus.

Dressing for Success Wednesday To promote student success at Fayetteville State University and in their professional careers, the Student Government Association developed an initiative entitled “Dressing for Success Wednesday.” Each Wednesday all faculty, staff, and students are asked to wear professional business attire to school and work.

The purpose of the initiative is to promote positive dress while creating positive images on and off campus. We will also be hosting various programs and discussion forums throughout the year on image and why it plays such a vital role in our day-to-day affairs.

Volunteer time/services, Funds made directly on a student’s account, Membership dues

• Where can I get additional information about supporting FSU? Call The Division of Institutional Advancement at 910-672-1661 or visit FSU’s website at www.uncfsu.edu/giving.

Pg 19

Overcoming Adversity and Making New Opportunities

by Tony Browne

My story begins at the age of 13yrs old when my family and I moved to North Carolina from FT. Dix, NJ. My dad was a MP stationed at FT. Bragg when we arrived, and my mom was a stay at home mother. My dad was deployed most of my life leaving just my mother, older brother, and me at home for years at a time.

While attending 71st high school I found that I had a talent for the Marketing and Management field so I joined the group DECA during my junior year. Prior to the end of my junior year, bad choices that I made during my sophomore year caught up with me and I was arrested for felonious breaking and entering. This part of my life I don’t usually share because of the shame of being portrayed as a criminal. Looking back I see that not having my father around during that crucial period from 10th to 11th grade was a major factor in being influenced by peers. I have no regrets of my past experiences because I feel they have made me the person that I am today.

After graduation in 1999 I had no plans of going to the military like some of my friends because of my conviction in the court system so I enrolled for the spring semester at FTCC. That semester

I worked a full time job from 8am to 5pm Monday through Friday and attended school Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 6pm to 10pm and Saturday from 8am to 10am achieving 10 credit hours.

The following fall I decided not to enroll back at FTCC because of my new job at Papa Johns Pizza where I ended up working my way up from delivery driver to shift manager to store manager.

I was employed as the store general manager for 8 months and transferred between two stores during that period. At my very last store, the owner of the franchise decided that he would take money out of my salaried check for high labor numbers and high food cost.

To me this was not fair because I had only been at the store for one month prior to the deductions from my salary. So from there I put in my two weeks’ notice and took a lesser

paying job at Pizza Hut. This was not enough money to support me so I also took a night job as a taxi driver to supplement my income.

It turns out that this was the path that God wanted me to be on because he guided me through the steps to become my own boss after a year of working for a taxicab company. I started my own taxi business with the help of a partner and some loans from family. The freedom of owning my own business and setting my hours gave me the freedom to pursue my college degree. I felt that the knowledge that I would receive from business courses would ultimately help my business expand and give me direction to create new ones.

Tony Browne is Owner of Champion Taxi Service, a member of the Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute, Eagles Nest Development Group, and Phi Eta Sigma.

FSU Enjoys Relationship with Chamber Fayetteville State University officials are savvy enough to recognize the importance of “town and gown” relationships. That’s why they have a very good one with the Fayetteville-Cumberland County Chamber of Commerce.

Emily Dickens, Director of Community and Government Affairs, said FSU has a good relationship with the chamber and works daily to strengthen it.

She said the relationship benefits the university because student participation in chamber events exposes potential employers to the quality of students we have here at FSU. Faculty exposure to the chamber cultivates partnerships for community research initiatives and grant proposals. Dickens was elected to the chamber’s Board of Directors about two years ago and serves on its nominating and operations committees. FSU Pg 20

employees Floyd Shorter, Director of the Fayetteville Business Center, and Pam Jackson, Associate Dean in the School of Business, also work closely with the chamber.

The relationship between Fayetteville State and the Fayetteville-Cumberland County Chamber of Commerce isn’t one that exists solely on paper. For example, in the spring of 2009 the chamber partnered with FSU’s Center for Entrepreneurship to bring Nobel Peace Prize Winner Mohammed Yunus, a Bangladeshi banker and economist, to Cumberland County. The university and the chamber hosted a joint fund-raiser at which Yunus met with students, faculty, staff and members of the community, Dickens said. Additionally, for two years FSU was the sole sponsor of the chamber’s monthly government affairs luncheon series, and the

university worked with the Fayetteville Business and Professional League, the historically black chamber of commerce, on its 42nd anniversary celebration.

Fayetteville State’s involvement with the anniversary consisted of co-sponsoring a visit by actor, producer and writer Tim Reid, who presented his new documentary “Blacks in the Military” on Oct. 7 in Seabrook Auditorium. Reid’s visit was part of The Chancellor’s Distinguished Speakers Series, which affords the public the opportunity to hear world-renowned speakers on FSU’s campus. All of the sessions are in Seabrook Auditorium and are free and open to the public.

Past participants include Alysa Stanton, the world’s first black female rabbi, Julian Bond,

Chairman of the NAACP Board of Directors and former Georgia Legislator, actor James Olmos, attorney and activist Anita Hill, former NFL Coach Herman Edwards and General Russel L. Honore’, who led relief efforts in New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, a devastating 2005 storm that claimed more than 1,000 lives and displaced countless others. Dickens said maintaining a good relationship with the chamber – as well as other organizations – is a priority.

AFRICA

FSU Students Study Abroad in Africa

As part of its efforts to produce graduates with global perspective, FSU recently established partnerships with several higher educational institutions in Africa, including University of Western Cape in South Africa, University of Abuja and Covenant University in Nigeria, University of Dar es Salaam, and the Institute for Social Work in Tanzania, with approved Memoranda of Agreement for Faculty/Student Exchange and Study-Abroad Programs.

In meeting with its commitment to global citizenry for its students, FSU sponsored three students for a 3-week study-abroad program at Covenant University in Nigeria this summer.

The students are Fidelis Atabong, who is a senior majoring in Chemistry and History; Molly Williams, graduate student of Social Work, and Matheuw Chandler, a junior majoring in Biology.

The students were accompanied by Dr. Daniel Okunbor, Assistant Dean, College of Arts and Sciences and Professor of Computer Science.

Taste of African Cuisine at Ucle Jerome Elaiho’s Villa

FSU students participated in the 1-week long event-filled fourth convocation and graduation ceremony at Covenant University. The students completed and received academic credits in two courses, Yoruba Language and Culture and Africa Society and Culture. Students had the opportunity to be immersed with the languages, cultures and history of African, Nigerian and Yoruba people. In addition to taking classes, students participated in outreach activities and service learning in the local communities and visited several historical places, including, the national mosque in Abuja, King Ooni of Ile-Ife Palace, slave market and museum, and the gate-of-no-return in Badagry town. Badagry is a coastal town located between the metropolitan city of Lagos and the border of the Republic of Benin.

Students visited the city of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory for a few days. They facilitated Health Awareness and Computer Appreciation classes attended by over 60 women and organized by the Better Life Programme for the African Rural Woman and Women & Youths Education Empowerment Foundation (WYEEF).

The students toured several historical places in Abuja, including the National Mosque, Asokoro Rock and Safari Park and Zoo and paid tribute to King Ezedigbo of the Igbo people in the Federal Capital Territory. The reception at King Ezedigbo’s Palace was highlighted with a live musical performance and traditional rites.

Students interacted with the King, giving them the opportunity to have many of their questions answered and concerns addressed.

The trip to Africa is certainly a memorable one for all three students. As African Americans this was their first visit to the continent of Africa, they were shocked beyond belief of what they saw and experienced, contrary to myths they have been taught about Africa. When asked if they would like to visit Nigeria again or complete their study at Covenant, the response was overwhelming “yes.” They wished that they had stayed longer. They indicated that “their life will never be the same again” – the generosity and hospitality, warmness, resiliency, and the surviving spirit of the people, the cultures, the language and values are very contagious in nature. All three students implore other students to take advantage of this life-changing studyabroad opportunity in Africa.

Dr. Asakitikpi and FSU Students

Covenant University Library

FSU Students in the Palace of King Ooni of Ile-Ife.

Study Abroad Opportunities Abound Fayetteville State University offers the privilege of studying abroad at a variety of foreign educational institutions that include:

Covenant University - Nigeria East China University of Science and Technology - China Ecole Superieure de Commerce at Bretagne-Brest - France Inner Mongolia Normal University - China University of Dar es Salaam Institute of Social Work Tanzania Hebel Normal University China University of Abuja - Nigeria University of Western Cape - South Africa FSU is in the final stages of developing agreements for studies abroad at the following:

Baotou Teacher College China St. George’s University - Grenada State Higher Vocational School in Krosno - Poland Fayetteville State University students used blogs and YouTube to chronicle their three-week study abroad experience in China this past summer. The 20 students spent two weeks in Shanghai and one week in Beijing immersed in the language and culture of China. The program reflects FSU’s goal of preparing graduates as global citizens prepared to compete in the 21st century economy. To view the blogs, go to: http://blog.uncfsu.edu/fsu_blog/.

Pg 21

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

BRONCOS ON THE MOVE The Jack Gravely Radio Show, Live in Richmond, Virginia, on WLEE News Talk Radio, is hosted by FSU alumnus, Dr. Jack Gravely ‘67. He can be heard live daily, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon. The radio show can also be accessed via internet at http://4.blogspot.com.

President Obama recently announced Gladys J. Commons ‘69, as nominee for Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Financial Management & Comptroller) Department of the Navy, Department of Defense.From 2002-2004, Ms. Commons served as comptroller of Military Sealift Command where she directed the programming, budgeting and execution of a $2.4 billion annual budget which provided resources to operate a fleet of 131 logistics force, special mission, strategic sealift and prepositioned ships. In this role, Commons also resolved long standing financial issues and restored credibility and integrity to the Command’s programming and budgeting process. Prior to this position, Commons served for 8 years as Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Financial Management and Comptroller) and briefly as Acting Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Financial Management and

Comptroller). She has also served as Deputy for Financial Management/Comptroller at Marine Corps Systems Command. Commons holds a Bachelors degree in Education from FSU and a Masters degree in Public Financial Management from American University.

Terrence Murchison ‘73, a member of the FSU Board of Trustees, has been selected to receive one of the 2009 Special Recognition Awards at the Western York County (SC) Branch of the NAACP at the annual Freedom Fund Banquet. The award recognizes citizens in Western York County who have made contributions to the citizens of the area. The Banquet was held on September 26, 2009, at the Union Baptist Church in Newport, SC. Alfred Dowe ’55 and Douglas Dowe ‘51 served as honorary Captains for the Fayetteville State Broncos during the football game in Salem, VA, on September 19th. The brothers, both Hall of Fame members, escorted the FSU Bronco Football Team onto the field for the contest. The Broncos were victorious in the game against the St. Paul Tigers with a final score of 24-0.

FSU Retirees Club President, William “Pete” Freeman ’73 presented a check to Chancellor James Anderson on behalf of the Fayetteville State University Retirees Club in the amount of $8,000

for scholarships. The presentation was made during the annual Fall Convocation ceremony in September.

Sylvia Anthony-McGeachy, Media and Library Science Coordinator at Williford Elementary School, has been named Teacher of the Year by the Nash County (NC) Public School System. She also took the honor of Elementary Teacher of the Year. She holds a teaching certification from Fayetteville State University and a master’s degree in library science from East Carolina University.

Lisa Shirley ‘94 and Jay Blauser ‘97 have announced their engagement. The wedding is set for November 21, 2009. Lisa received her degree in Accounting from FSU in 1994 and has worked at FSU since 2003 in Business and Finance. She has been the University Controller since May 2007. Jay received his degree in Criminal Justice from FSU in 1997. He holds an Associates degree in Architectural Technology from Fayetteville Technical Community College and his master’s in Human Resource Management from Webster University. He has worked at FSU since 2005 as Project Manager/Sustainability Coordinator in the Facilities Managment Department. Jay and Lisa, both, graduated from Cape Fear High School in Fayetteville (NC) in 1990, but did not know each other at the time. Lisa and Jay credit FSU for bringing them together.

Mildred Summerville ‘75 Produces Gospel Play Mildred Summerville doesn’t want the children who receive services through J&L Summerville Academy to ever worry about not being able to get the assistance they need. As a means to sustain the academy, Summerville said, “God gave me an inspirational vision.” The J&L Summerville Academy’s Structured Day Program offers youth in Wilson, NC, a community-based alternative to suspension. The goals of the program are to increase academic performance and reduce negative behaviors, thus leading to a reduction in suspensions and drop-out rates.

Driven to help the children, she wrote a gospel play entitled “Spare the Rod, Spoil the Child” with Regina McCrary, best known for her role in Tyler Perry’s “Diary of a Mad Black Woman.” The play premiered June 29, 2007, at the Progress Energy

Center in Raleigh, North Carolina. There was an immediate demand for a repeat of the play, but it was delayed because of the sudden illness of Summerville. Through sickness and pain, Mildred emerged more determined than ever to resurrect the presentation and bring it home to Fike High School in Wilson, North Carolina, where she graduated and ultimately retired from as an administrator.

On September 18th and 19th, 2009, the play had three showings with a celebrity cast of gospel recording artists including six-time GRAMMY® Award nominee and multi-Stellar Award winner, Melvin Williams of the renowned Williams Brothers; Regina McCrary, Ann McCrary and Leanne Faine, choir members and soloists on BET’s Bobby Jones Gospel ®; Evangelist Evelyn Turrentine-Agee, a Stellar Award Winner; Tracy Worth, a contemporary gospel artist and Stellar & Soul Train Award Nominee; and Dana Joi Morgan, a renowned classical pianist. Returning as Directors were James House and Melissa Wade.

Pastor Shirley Caesar, a member of the Board of Directors for the Academy, said, “Spare the Rod, Spoil the Child” is a professional play that speaks to all ages. I was particularly amazed to see young people who had probably never acted before so accurately depicting what our youth are going through. Everyone should see this exceptional play. You will laugh, you will cry, and you will laugh again. Your life will never be the same!”

“The play’s purpose is twofold,” Summerville said. “The play is to raise awareness of health disparities and the play’s entire production process and content provides a curriculum for the students at her Academy.” Find out more about the Summerville Academy and the play at http://jlsummervilleacademy.com. Mildred Summerville is a life-member of the Fayetteville State University National Alumni Association.

Mildred Summerville is another example of a Bronco personifying our motto “Res Non Verba,” “Deeds not Words.”

FSU National Alumni Association Officers: Mrs. Vedas Neal, President; Mrs. Brenda Freeman, First Vice President; Mr. Raymond Privott, Second Vice President; Ms. Gwen McCormick, Treasurer; Mr. Willie Artis, Finance Secretary; Mrs. Ruthie Rhodie, Recording Secretary; Ms. Nancy Harris, Assistant Recording Secretary; Mr. Alexander Gerald, Parliamentarian; Mr. Thomas Bond, Sergeant-at-Arms; Ms. Rene’ Stinson Hall, News Editor

Headway Corporate Resources Hires Industry Veteran Al Ragland ‘75 to Run Engineering and Technology Headway Corporate Resources, a leading North American human capital solutions company, announced today the appointment of Alvin (Al) Ragland as Vice President for Engineering & Technology Resources. In his role, Mr. Ragland will be responsible for managing Headway’s national service delivery of staff augmentation, recruitment and workforce solutions to the energy and technology sectors.

JP Sakey, Headway’s CEO stated, “We are indeed fortunate to have someone of Al’s stature and experience join our company in this important role.”

Mr. Ragland has over 25 years of experience in the Human Resources and Recruitment world with successful accomplishments in driving enterprise-wide human capital solutions and improvements. Most recently, he was with Tekelec as Senior Vice President, HR. Prior to that he held executive positions with Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications, Northern Telecom, and Carolina Power & Light, which merged with Progress Energy in 2000.

Mr. Ragland is nationally and internationally known in the energy and technology industries for human resource business solutions, organizational change, management and effectiveness. He is also actively involved with a number of Boards in the Raleigh area from Paragon Commercial Bank to serving as

Chairperson for the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina. Mr. Ragland earned his BS in Business Administration from Fayetteville State University and is a native Carolinian.

Headway Corporate Resources has been delivering innovative and value based human capital solutions since 1974. The Company’s award winning service delivery connects organizations with superior talent while improving workforce performance to reduce costs and internal resources. Headway ranks among one of the top staffing and recruiting companies in the world and serves an array of Fortune 1000 companies.

Headway Corporate Resources is comprised of two service divisions: Adaptive Workforce Solutions and Recruitment & Staffing.

Recruitment & Staffing focuses on resources for administration, accounting & finance, law, technology, engineering, life-science, and hospitality for contingent and direct-hire needs of organizations. The company’s Adaptive Workforce Solutions, national in scope, provides comprehensive HR outsourcing programs such as Recruitment Process Outsourcing and Payrolling-Employer of record, to companies who want to be more efficient, productive, and save money on their human capital processing efforts. Learn more about Al Ragland and Headway Corporate Resources by visiting their website www.headwaycorp.com.

Clifton Arrington ‘52 Robert Lee Atkins ‘80 Jacquelyn Holmes Breece ‘71 Ludella Currie ‘47 Coach Carl S. Galbreath ‘52 Kenneth Rodney Graham ‘09 Nancy Graham ‘53 Donice Harbor ‘95 Mrs. Jeanette Braggs-FSU Retiree James E. Oxendine ‘59 Patrick Platonia ‘07 Lovie Dancy Tabron ‘46 Phyllis Jane Talley ‘26 Micheal Sneed Hardy Williams ‘59

In Honor and

Memor y

Vedas Neal ‘70

Named President of FSU National Alumni Associaton

Vedas Neal ‘70, a native of Camden, New Jersey, came to FSU (then Fayetteville State College) to prepare for her life-long dream of becoming a teacher. While at FSU, she served as a class officer, was a cheerleading captain, and a member of the touring choir. Graduating in 1970 with a degree in elementary education, she returned to her home in New Jersey beginning a career in education. For over thirty-five years, President Neal enriched the lives of others across the state of New Jersey in a variety of leadership roles. Teaching fourth grade and sixth grades, serving as assistant principal at East Camden Middle School, Vedas later earned her M.Ed. at Rutgers University.

After serving in a variety of leadership positions, to include adult education administration, President Neal was appointed to manage the first NJ Youth Corps Urban Dropout Program forming alliances with the NJ Department of Community Affairs, the Private Industry Council of NJ, and county Employment Consortia. Her career spanned the educational spectrum: adult education, grade schools, middle schools, special needs programs, and development of GED test centers.

Among her many accomplishments and service positions, Vedas is past president of the South Jersey Chapter of the FSU AA, South Jersey Coalition of 100 Black Women, trustee of the Camden County Workforce Investment Board, United Negro College Fund Board of Directors and a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority (Gamma Beta Omega Chapter). After relocating to NC, President Neal served as president of the Wilson County Alumni Chapter of FSU and was elected first vice-president of the FSU NAA until becoming its president in September. As president, Vedas is committed to increasing membership and the alumni participation rate.

President Neal is married to James “Sammy” Neal of Nashville, NC. They have four sons, a daughter, a daughter-in-law, son-in-law, and six grandchildren.

Pg 23

Fayetteville State University—Second to None:

The Case for Giving to FSU Now By Arthur G. Affleck, JD Vice Chancellor for Institutional Advancement Most people know that UNC Chapel Hill is the oldest public university in North Carolina and the nation. Few know that Fayetteville State University (FSU) is the second oldest public university in North Carolina. While second oldest, FSU is second to none when it comes to the quality of its programs, faculty and students. This too is a little known fact. However, in the coming months we will be “telling the FSU story” in ways that will help others know the positive impact, economically and otherwise that this venerable institution has on our local community, the State of North Carolina and beyond. In the short time that I have been on this historic and beautiful campus, I have been infused with Bronco pride as a result of my direct interaction with FSU students, faculty, alumni and staff. Under the visionary and steady leadership of Chancellor James A. Anderson, we are poised for greater success and recognition.

I say this with confidence because I see the University’s new Strategic Plan unfolding on a daily basis. As presented in the Plan, “The primary mission of FSU is to provide students with the highest quality learning experiences that will produce global citizens and leaders as change agents for shaping the future of the state.”

These learning experiences are provided by our faculty and others, on and off the Fayetteville State University campus. The thing that most excites me about Fayetteville

Pg 24

State University is our diverse and exceptional student body.

FSU Students Many of our students are first-generation college students and most receive some form of financial aid. The majority come to us from counties surrounding the campus as well as from cities and towns throughout North Carolina. It is also true that we have students at FSU from states like California, Florida, Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas and the District of Columbia. The FSU student body is diverse, talented, motivated and they are doing some significant and productive things.

Chancellor Anderson has told FSU students that “the future is calling.” Our students are responding by pushing themselves to excel in the classroom as well as in outside endeavors. Students in the School of Education had a 97% pass rate on the Praxis II exam and a 100% pass rate on the School Administrator Licensure exam. FSU students, as well as a couple of students from the Cross Creek Early College High School Program at FSU, have been selected to work with Dr. Michael Singletary on one of our most exciting initiatives—the microprobe.

We received a $1.4 million grant from the Department of Defense which enabled FSU, in partnership with UNCP, to establish this center which houses one of the most sophisticated electron microprobes in the nation. The students

pictured on the cover of this issue, Elida Kirkland, Jessica Diaz and DeVonda Hunter, are among a small group of students in the country who are learning to work with an electron microprobe. There is only a small number of these devices on college campuses and our students are developing some unique skills that will position them well for the future.

Some students, like Tony Browne (See article on page 20) have started businesses. In fact, Mr. Browne recently received an award from the Fayetteville Business and Professional League.

FSU students are world travelers.

During the school opening program, the current Miss FSU, Amber Lindsay, spoke passionately about her experiences traveling in China earlier this year with other FSU students. A delegation of students also went to countries in Africa.

FSU recently formed a debate team. Last summer four members of the Fayetteville State University (FSU) Debate Team were present at the First Annual HBCU Debate Workshop at Mary Washington University in Fredericksburg, VA. Students Queen Colbert, Tanesha

Slaughter, Kenneth Coleman, and Matthew Johnson attended four days of debate classes and lectures from some of the giants in the field of policy debate including coaches from Wake Forest, Clarion University, Boston College, and Harvard University. The camp culminated in a debate tournament.

In that tournament, the students made both themselves and Fayetteville State University proud.

The students competed well. As a result of her exceptional showing, debater Tanesha Slaughter was chosen to represent FSU as one of six debaters from different institutions who put on an exhibition debate for the Presidents and Chancellors of our nation’s HBCUs (as well as a number of other VIP guests who were in attendance) during the White House Initiative on HBCUs Annual Conference in Washington, D.C. on August 31st.

I was there for this event and in my totally unbiased view, FSU’s Tanesha Slaughter was the most impressive of the six debaters.

Not only are we blessed with superior leadership at FSU in terms of the Chair of our Board of Trustees, Mrs. Gloria Moore Carter, and our Chancellor, Dr James A. Anderson, we have excellent

The FSU 2009-2010 Annual Fund

programs. State support has been reduced at all public colleges and universities in North Carolina. We are, therefore, required to raise more private dollars than ever before. I urge you to make a contribution to the Annual Fund to demonstrate to these exceptional students that we support them as they prepare themselves for the future leadership roles that await them in our state and beyond.

I have shared a bit of information on FSU students and their activities to demonstrate their commitment to take full advantage of this educational opportunity even as they find ways to give back to the University, the community, the State, the nation and, indeed, world. Our commitment to them is to provide financial support to those hard working students who need financial support. We just kicked off our Annual Fund Drive with an event in the Seabrook Auditorium. The Chair of the FSU Annual Fund Steering Committee is Thaddeus (TJ) Jenkins, CEO of the Wrijen Company. The Annual Fund at FSU generates fund from FSU alumni, friends, faculty and staff to support FSU students and

Our 2009-2010 Annual Fund Drive will be enhanced by our partnership with the Tom Joyner Foundation. Fayetteville State University has been selected as a Tom Joyner School of the Month.

Our month is February 2010.

From now until next February we will be raising funds in support of this effort. During the month of February, selected FSU major donors and our Chancellor will be interviewed on the Tom Joyner Morning show which airs on over 100 radio stations around the country. You can get more information on the Tom Joyner School of the Month Partnership from our website www.uncfsu. edu. Thanks, in advance, for your support.

student leadership. One of their initiatives that most impressed me was the SGA Scholarship fundraising drive. Under the leadership of SGA President Monica Carson, these progressive students are raising thousands of dollars to help fellow students in need of financial support.

Pg 25

Fayetteville State University develops

Nursing Partnership

with neighboring

medical facilities.

Dr. Jimmie Williams believes truly successful nurses carry a passion for their patients and that the heart is as vital as the head when it comes to effective care giving. Fayetteville State University nursing students learn a great deal about those elements of their desired profession and much more when they work required in practicums during the spring semester of their senior year. The seniors are required by the North Carolina Board of Nursing to put in 120 clinical hours with a preceptor (mentor) who is a registered nurse with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. In order to do that, partnerships must be formed by Fayetteville State with hospitals.

“It is important for nurses to learn how to teach, as well as treat the patient . . . . We look at all of the needs and then coordinate and collaborate with the specialists.” ­— Dr. Jimmie Williams “It takes a lot of work,” said Williams, the interim chair of the FSU department of nursing. “When you take into consideration that nursing students at Fayetteville Technical Community College and UNC Pembroke also need to set up practicums, that is a large number of preceptors.”

That is why FSU has established partnerships with Cape Fear Valley, Highsmith Rainey and Veterans hospitals in Fayetteville; Southeastern Regional Hospital in Lumberton; Bladen County Hospital in Elizabethtown; FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst; and Sampson County Regional Medical Center in Clinton. “The process begins in the fall,”

Pg 26

Williams said, “when schools try to coordinate students with particular hospitals. We try to get students near their homes. It is very hard to honor all of the requests, but we try. All of us (nursing department chairs from area schools) are faced with coming up with enough preceptorships.”

Whether it is business, medicine or athletics, there is no substitute for experience, and that is why the practicum is so valuable. It is hands-on learning, an opportunity to gain knowledge and experience at the same time. “There is nothing like having that experience in medical/surgical nursing,” Williams said. “Certain conditions such as chest pain or diabetes or hypertension, for example, come under the medical heading. Nurses learn how to monitor those conditions while decisions about treatment are made. Dealing with patients who have undergone surgery requires different skills – changing dressings, for example. “Both involve teaching on the part of the preceptor, and ultimately, on the part of the student, who learns how to teach patients what they can do to help themselves. Nurses try to steer patients back to their activities of daily living. Nurses teach patients what to watch for and how to adapt. It is important for nurses to learn how to teach as well as treat the patient. We look at all of the needs and then coordinate and collaborate with the specialists.”

In addition to senior nursing students who are not licensed, Fayetteville State’s nursing program has a group of RNs (Registered Nurses) who will graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. They also must do a practicum. “They have more flexibility,” Williams said. “They can go into outlying areas such as mental health, oncology or critical care – areas which they have not worked professionally – in order to broaden their

Above: An illustration of the new Southeastern North Carolina Nursing Education and Research Center, currently under construction at Fayetteville State University.

experience. Those students are licensed already, so their preceptors must be Masters prepared nurses. There are obviously more choices for the RN, while the non-licensed nurse has to remain in the clinical (hospital) setting.�

The 37,000-square-foot nursing building, which is expected to open in July 2010, will have eight classrooms, two computer labs, three seminar rooms, general offices and study rooms for faculty and students. A stateof-the-art nursing simulation laboratory also will be incorporated into the $10 million project.

Nursing faculty will occupy the third floor once the building is finished.

FSU is talking with officials at Fayetteville Technical Community College and the two area health education centers about partnering. If a partnership is reached, those organizations could use the facilities. No final decisions have been made. The psychology department, currently is housed in the Lauretta Taylor Building, will also occupy spaced in the nursing building. The department is in the early stages of adding a doctoral program.

Earlier this year, Chancellor James A. Anderson announced that the nursing program will be revamped. Preliminary scores indicate that the most recent group of students who took the NCLEX will give FSU its highest passing percentage since the program began in 2005. FSU continues to operate a 13-month online program for registered nurses seeking a four-year degree.

Pg 27

Seamless Transition

2

From Tech School

F

or some students, the thought of leaving high school and going directly to a four-year institution is a bit daunting, so many opt to attend community colleges first. For those students who go that route with plans to eventually transfer to Fayetteville State University, the news couldn’t be better.

FSU’s relationship with the state’s community colleges is so great that the transfer process for students is almost, well, seamless. “Fayetteville State works diligently to make the transition from community college to the university as smooth as possible by accurately evaluating transcripts in a timely manner and by providing sound academic advising,” said Dr. Teronda McNeil, Director of Extended Education at FSU. “The Transfer and Advisement Center works to ensure students get maximum credit for transfer hours, answers questions of concern, provides accurate academic advisement, provides one-stop shopping services to dual-enrolled students and assists students on becoming successful at the university in general.”

At Fayetteville State University, which has an enrollment of more than 6,300 students, approximately 34 percent of undergraduate students began their college careers at community colleges, according to information from the Office of Transfer and Advisement. Criminal justice, psychology and sociology are the most popular majors among FSU transfer students. Not surprisingly, approximately 23 percent of Fayetteville State’s transfer students come from Fayetteville Technical Community College. The university also offers dual enrollment programs at Bladen, Cape Fear, Central Carolina, James Sprunt, Johnston, Lenoir, Pitt, Robeson, Richmond, Sampson, Sandhills, Southeastern, Stanley, Wake Tech and Wayne community colleges.

For the students and Fayetteville State, transferring is a win-win situation. Dr. McNeil said some students never transfer to a fouryear institution because they would like to attend a program that enables them to receive an associate degree in a technical field or vocational field. However,

University

she added, students who attend community colleges do so for several reasons. One typical reason is cost. Another is they just aren’t ready to be in a four-year institution atmosphere immediately following high school.

To transfer to Fayetteville State University from a community college, students must have a GPA of at least 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. There is no minimum number of transfer credits, but only courses in which students earned a C or better will transfer. For students who wish to move into Online Degree Completion Programs, the rules are a tad different as they must have completed all of the University Core Courses before they can declare a major. That’s where McNeil’s department, the Office of Extended Education, steps in. When students have completed their 45 semester hours of university core courses, they’re eligible to apply to one of FSU’s Online Degree Completion Programs to complete their Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree online. “All of the North Carolina Community Colleges and the 16 universities in the UNC System work collaboratively to ensure that each community receives an array of educational opportunities,” Dr. McNeil said. “There are articulation agreements, dual enrollment agreements, and transferability tables which allow students to go to any part of North Carolina and continue their education, especially with the first two years of study (general education requirements).”

FSU Education Consultant Darnette Hall holds office hours at Fayetteville Technical Community College on Mondays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. During that time, FTCC students can stop by to discuss the transfer process. Most students are sure about transferring to FSU

when they stop by Hall’s office, but many don’t know specifically what degree programs Fayetteville State has and whether their courses will transfer. “I do a lot of transcript evaluations on the spot,” Hall said.

“I advise them on the admissions policy and let them know what programs we have at FSU and what they’ll need to apply for admission at FSU. I also advise students on the dual enrollment programs we have at FSU because we have three dual enrollment agreements. And I can actually help them register for their classes when they stop by my office.”

Hall said she’s usually very busy during the three hours she spends at FTCC and rarely has down time.

In fact, there are periods when she wishes she could clone herself to keep pace with the workload.

Military personnel wishing to transfer to Fayetteville State often come to her armed with transcripts listing courses taken at a variety of colleges throughout the country.

Hall said because their courses are from all over, sometimes we have to refer to a particular college’s catalogue to determine whether the courses meet FSU’s requirements.

No matter what the students need when they visit Hall, she’s ready to help them, as are officials in FSU’s Office of Transfer and Advisement and Office of Extended Education. After all, while earning a degree from Fayetteville State requires hard work and discipline, as it should, transferring to FSU from one of the state’s community colleges is a fairly simple process.

Fayetteville Technical Community College’s Horticulture Educational Center.

Pg 28

FSU collaborates with local institutions for

Fire Science Program G

ood things are always going on at Fayetteville State University, and the school’s Fire Science Partnership is just another example of that. Since 2007, FSU has offered a bachelor’s degree in fire science in collaboration with The Fayetteville Fire Department, Fayetteville Technical Community College and E.E. Smith High School.

The Fire Science Partnership was the brainchild of Fayetteville Fire Chief B. E. Nichols, who has been in the fire fighting business for 38 years. The idea came to him about 10 years ago when he served as a facilitator on a panel that discussed the need for a career mentoring program for minority youth who were interested in fire fighting. Fayetteville Fire Department officials were also interested in increasing the under-represented population among their ranks. From there, Nichols suggested that Fayetteville State University develop a fire science curriculum and the City of Fayetteville build a fire station on FSU property.

Today, Fire Station No. 14, a $3.4 million, 18,000 square foot building, sits proudly on

Fayetteville State’s campus and helps fulfills the city’s emergency response needs, said Dr. S. Joseph Woodall, Assistant Professor and Fire Science Program Director. He said the university’s Fire Science Partnership is going well. “The partnership provides an educational pathway from high school, through the N.C. Community College and Fayetteville State,” Woodall said. “It is one of very few educational partnerships in the U.S. that allows the student to have access to a well-defined and systematic educational pathway for fire service educational attainment.”

The partnership’s significance should not be underestimated. Dr. Woodall said the partnership will increase diversity in the FSU community, bringing students from virtually every section of North Carolina and even some out-of-state students. These students would not have considered FSU since we did not offer programs in their area of interest and need.

FSU has now become a school of choice for the majority of North Carolina fire service career and volunteers seeking an undergraduate degree in their career field, he added.

Pg 29

“The partnership will increase diversity in the FSU community, bringing students from virtually every section of North Carolina and even some out-of-state students . . . .”

Here’s how the partnership works: n E.E. Smith High School students can complete 18 semester credit hours of their fire protection technology degree at Fayetteville Technical Community College. n While at FTCC, those same students can seek dual enrollment with Fayetteville State, thus transferring up to 72 semester credit hours to FSU. n They can also take upper-division fire science courses at FSU during their time at FTCC, all in pursuit of their bachelor’s of science degree in fire science with a concentration in fire service management.

university also works in coordination with the North Carolina Community Colleges to offer online degree completion programs in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology and an RN to BSN in Nursing. The Fire Science Partnership was sorely needed in the Cumberland County area. Fayetteville’s population, at 174,091, ranks as the sixth largest municipality in North Carolina. Because of its large, diversified population, the city faces many unique challenges, its fire department notwithstanding.

n Fire Station 14, constructed with a stateof-the-art “smart” classroom and dorm rooms, serves as the residence for the fire science program interns who, during a 12-week internship, take online fire science classes and receive hands-on training as fire fighters.

Like other cities, Fayetteville has identified future needs for additional fire stations based on projected growth. Another concern has been the fact that, although 2000 Census figures listed Fayetteville as a majority nonwhite city, minorities and women make up only about 11 percent of the city’s fire fighters. “As in other fields and industries, more emphasis has been placed on education and the advantages of diversity in the workplace,” Nichols said.

“Those fields that continue to embrace these factors have proven to be more successful in their mission and meeting the needs of their communities. Also, many organizations face the same issues and have the same goals. Working in a concerted effort only lends to reduced efforts with a higher probability of success.”

While at Fayetteville State, the students take their fire science courses online. The

Woodall agrees and says the Fire Science Partnership is a great thing for all involved. He

n Fayetteville State University provides the final 39 semester credit hours required for a degree in fire science, and each three-hour class costs only $204.

Pg 30

said FSU is a student-focused institution, and assisting those we serve in the achievement of their goals is what higher education is all about. By partnering with a local high school, working closely with Fayetteville Technical Community College and other N. C. Community colleges and offering accessible and affordable bachelor’s-level courses, FSU has been afforded the opportunity to assist in the educational development of the fire services, ultimately playing a part in the safety of our community and the communities of others.

azz on the

Jazz

river

on the River

Jazz on the River, the annual fund raiser for WFSS 91.9 Radio, was held recently at Campbelltown Landing in Fayetteville, NC. Proceeds from the annual fall event benefit the ongoing operation of FSU’s public radio station.

Pg 31

Faith Initiative Partners with Area Churches

Officials at most historically black colleges and universities recognize the importance of building and maintaining strong relationships with area churches, and Fayetteville State University is no exception. For example, in the past two years Rev. John D. Fuller Sr., Pastor of Lewis Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Fayetteville, has given a significant gift to Fayetteville State’s General Scholarship Fund and challenged his peers to do the same, said Wendy Jones, Associate Vice Chancellor for Development & University Relations. This year, FSU has experienced a whopping 40 percent increase in support of scholarships from the faith-based community because of a campus event under Fuller’s leadership, Jones said.

Additionally, several churches have hosted “FSU Day,” during which Chancellor James A. Anderson serves as keynote speaker and many FSU students, faculty and staff are recognized, she said. David C. Camps, Sr., Pastor of Baldwin Branch Missionary Baptist Church in Elizabethtown, hosted FSU

Day in February at his church.

“We had an FSU Sunday, and for the whole month before the FSU service I told everyone to be prepared for that particular service and to bring a contribution,” said Camps, Director of Sponsored Research and Programs at Fayetteville State. “My intention for that service was to collect about $1,000, and we collected $2,500.”

Camps said he thinks the FSU fund raising event was so successful because his congregation understands the significance of education. He said they understand the importance of the kids being in college, he also talks about education from the pulpit all the time. “Sometimes if people know what’s in jeopardy they’ll give money, so I informed them that FSU was undergoing some budget cuts, and not only that, but I let them know that we still have first-generation college kids here that don’t have a lot of money. I emphasized the need to support our own,” Camps said.

Efforts like those from Camps and Fuller have made quite a difference at Fayetteville State

University, Jones said.

She said FSU depends on the faith community to provide support that enables the university to fulfill its mission. “The various congregations in our community play a major role in the lives of many of our students, faculty and staff. Our goal is to establish a strong partnership as we work together in ensuring that students have the opportunity to attend our university and become

Jones said the university has increased scholarship support for students over the past few years with the money raised by area churches. Each spring, the university asks the faith-based community to come to the campus for a Faith Community Partnership Luncheon. The Chancellor and student scholars welcome a crowd of approximately 100, representing a diverse faithbased audience. An overview of current successes, plans for the future, and an update on pressing topics related to higher education and FSU are provided. Likewise, students explain the importance of scholarships and how the faith based community can provide much-needed support to enhance our recruitment, retention and financial aid concerns.

Camps plans to have another FSU Day in February and hopes to far exceed his $3,000 goal.

The reason area churches lend a hand to Fayetteville State University is simple, he said: They care about the students. “Since I arrived here … I’ve taken FSU under my wings as have some of the other area pastors,” Camps

Pg 32

Fayetteville State is grateful for its relationship with Baldwin Branch Missionary Baptist Church and Lewis Chapel Missionary Baptist Church and welcomes other churches to get involved, Jones said. “We seek

“We seek to strengthen our relationship with those churches who we have worked with for some time, and we are always eager to engage new friends . . . .” contributing members of our community,” she said.

S

said. “For instance, not only does Pastor Fuller bring a contribution from his church to Fayetteville State, but he also contributes himself – sort of whatever the church gives he matches it.”

to strengthen our relationship with those churches who we have worked with for some time, and we are always eager to engage new friends,” she said. “We feel that Fayetteville State University plays a vital role in the success of our community. We also recognize the impact of the faithbased community, and in order to prosper, we must work together.”

Bishop J. V. Porter, Christ Cathedral International Truth Center, prays during FSU’s annual Faith Partnership Luncheon.

Local pastors and representatives from area churches enjoy lunch and fellowship during FSU’s annual Faith Partnership Luncheon.

SO Fayetteville State University is pleased to announce our selection as a Tom Joyner School of the Month for February 2010.

We are challenging all FSU alumni, friends, and supporters to join us by making a contribution of any amount to our Tom Joyner Campaign. All funds raised will support scholarships at FSU.

Participation in the Tom Joyner School of the Month program raises funds and heightens awareness of FSU both nationally and locally through the Tom Joyner Morning Show.

During FSU’s month, which is February 2010, the Morning Show will focus on FSU programs, live phone interviews with Chancellor James A. Anderson, Tom Joyner scholarship student profiles, and spotlights of top national and local FSU donors.

MAKE YOUR GIFT TODAY! Make your check payable to

Fayetteville State University and mail to:

ÂŽ

Institutional Advancement 1200 Murchison Rd. Fayetteville, NC 28301 Be sure to write Tom Joyner in the memo line.

For more information, call (910) 672-1729.

®

Non-Profit Org. PAID Fayetteville, NC Permit No. 247

1200 Murchison Road Fayetteville, NC 28301 ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED

Look no further.

You’ll find it at Fayetteville State University.