Connection Magazine Summer 2005 by Georgia College & State University

Letter from the President DEAR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS, The past academic year has given me the opportunity to meet many of you and to welcome many of you to campus. I have appreciated the presence of our alumni and friends at several landmark events: inaugural week and my investiture ceremony, ribbon cuttings at the new Student Activity Center and at the newly restored Old Governor’s Mansion, the Alumni Awards Ceremony, and Alumni Weekend. I hope to see many more of you at similar events in the upcoming year. In May, I presented our completed campus master plan to the Board of Regents. Developed with the assistance of the distinguished design firm Sasaki Associates and a campus task force led by Bob Wilson and Todd Shiver, our plan for the future development of the Milledgeville campus was well received. With funds obtained by the Regents’ facilities staff through a Getty Grant, our plan will form the basis of a planning template for historic campuses. We are the only campus in the University System of Georgia that lies within a national and a state historic district. (You can see a PowerPoint of my presentation at info.gcsu.edu/masterplan/workproducts.htm.) What does the plan outline for the campus? Imagine with me the impact of this plan in fifteen years. The main campus square will form the academic core of the Milledgeville campus. Academic departments now located on the periphery of campus will have moved back to the academic core. Performing Arts facilities will have been vastly improved and will include a blackbox theatre in historic downtown. All our historic buildings will have been restored for use in exciting new ways. Among the most recently transformed will be Ennis Hall, home of the art department; Terrell Hall, adapted for use by faculty and support staff as office space; the old Baldwin County Courthouse, the location of University Advancement, University Communications, Admissions, the campus visitors’ center, and the President’s Office; and Mayfair Hall, restored as a faculty development center and accommodations for visiting scholars. Historic landscapes will also be preserved and in some cases extended. Chief among these are the front campus lawn, with its historic entrance gates and walkways, and the Formal Garden behind Parks Hall. In this campus of the future we will also have implemented the master plan’s recommendations on wayfinding by placing appropriate signage to mark directions, streets, buildings, and historic attractions, coordinated with the city and county for uniformity of image. The campus will be safer, with well-developed bike and pedestrian paths and improved crosswalks. Cars will be parked further from the main campus, and non-polluting shuttles will move passengers among destinations. To take the first step in implementing the campus master plan, I presented a capital request to the Board of Regents in June. The proposed renovation and adaptive reuse of Ennis, Terrell, and Mayfair Halls and of the Old Baldwin County Courthouse formed a single, bundled project costing some $27 million. While the project was not selected for immediate inclusion, we will be able to propose it again in future requests, and we feel that the project has strong appeal. But we may need your help! Private support will definitely move our project up in the Regents’ priorities. Although we intend to seek grants and external foundation support to shorten the wait time for these badly-needed projects, there are fewer and fewer sources of grant funds for capital projects. We must stabilize these architectural treasures before it is too late, and our best hope of avoiding delay is a funding plan that combines grants, private gifts, and state funding through the Board of Regents. Our students come to us each year with better academic profiles, and a talented faculty and staff are ready to offer them challenging learning experiences. So many of you have a direct role in these students’ success through your gifts and your support in other ways. They are the reason we are here! I know that you, as I, take pleasure in knowing that you are enhancing opportunity for deserving students who will represent us well as they go forward to become leaders in their professions and communities. Thank you for spreading the word about Georgia College & State University. Our success depends on you. We look forward to welcoming you here soon. As always, DOROTHY LELAND

President Dorothy Leland

Vice President for University Advancement Amy Nitsche

Director of University Communications Mitch Clarke

Senior Writer and Editor Binky Strickland

Contributing Writers Mitch Clarke, Zach Kincaid, Barbara Monnett, Chad Crabtree, and Brad Muller

Senior Photographer Tim Vacula

Graphic Designer Jon M. Scott

Printer Atlanta Web Printers Connection is published twice a year by the Office of University Communications and the Office of University Advancement. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Distributed free of charge to alumni, friends and parents of Georgia College & State University. Please send change of address, class notes and deaths to: University Advancement Campus Box 96 Milledgeville, GA 31061 joi.thomas@gcsu.edu Story ideas, contributed articles, photographs and letters are welcomed; however, the university accepts no responsibility for unsolicited items. Send those items to: University Communications Campus Box 97 Milledgeville, GA 31061 mitch.clarke@gcsu.edu For admissions information, contact the: Office of Admissions Campus Box 23 Milledgeville, GA 31061 info@gcsu.edu For the latest news about GC&SU, visit The Info Page at: http://info.gcsu.edu Georgia College & State University, established in 1889, is Georgia’s Public Liberal Arts University.

University System of Georgia

Table of Contents Features 9 The Grand re-opening GC&SU celebrates a $10 million restoration of the Old Governor’s Mansion which returned the historic building to its 1850s glory.

A College of Distinction The university became the only University System of Georgia institution to be designated a “College of Distinction” by a national publication.

20 Oh, the places you’ll go More than 40 professors, 200 students travel the world for Study Abroad opportunities.

25 The “i” in iPods Ideas and suggestions for engaging Georgia College students beyond the classroom using iPods are becoming more than just “iDreams.”

30 Life is an adventure The aspects of beauty and community drew Jude Hirsch to a life calling of outdoor education.

Departments 4 19 26 32 33 36 39 44 45 46

UpFront Around Campus News from the Schools Faculty Notes Bobcats Sports Advancement News Alumni News Alumni Profile Class Notes In Memoriam

On The Cover THE OLD GOVERNOR’S MANSION

UpFront You can read the latest news updates from GC&SU and read coverage in the local media by visiting The Info Page at http://info.gcsu.edu

Graduation returns to front campus On May 7, with the columns and long porches peering down to the lawn and great oaks of Georgia College’s front campus, a tradition was revived. The announcement that the Georgia College graduation would move to the front campus signaled the return to a longtime university tradition that moved indoors in 1989, with the celebratory opening of the Centennial Center. President Dorothy Leland initiated an exploration of the location change, which was studied and recommended by the Graduation Planning Task Force and endorsed by the University Senate Student Affairs Committee. “We hope to develop a ceremony that is especially meaningful and appropriate for the kind of university we have become,” Leland said. “Our front campus is such a beautiful symbol of our university, and it provides the ideal setting for a celebration of our students’ academic success. It also allows us to reconnect with our rich history by reviving a tradition that was so important to our alumni.”

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U P F R O N T

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U P F R O N T

Peters one of nation’s best

Georgia College student Sallie Peters of Madison, Ga., was awarded the National Graduation Award conferred by the Council for Exceptional Children at the National CEC Convention and Expo held in April in Baltimore, Md. The council presents two National Graduation Awards each year, one to an outstanding undergraduate student and the other to an outstanding graduate student. Peters, a senior majoring in interrelated special education, is the daughter of Richard and Denise Peters of Madison. She graduated from Morgan County High School, where she was a member of the school band, was in the National Honor Society, and was a participant in the Youth Apprenticeship program. Peters was also recognized at the Honors Day Convocation April 22 as the recipient of the Outstanding School Award from the John H. Lounsbury School of Education. She is the past president of the Georgia Student Council for Exceptional Children and current vice president of the Student Council for Exceptional Children Chapter 996. She is a four-year HOPE scholarship recipient, is listed in Who’s Who among American Colleges & Universities and is involved in the local Best Buddies organization.

Sallie Peters receives a congratulatory hug from Dean Linda Irwin-DeVitis at the Honors Day Convocation.

First at math A Georgia College math team won First Place at a math competition held April 15 at the Mercer University Undergraduate Research Conference in Macon, Ga., according to Dr. Laurie Edler, assistant professor in the Georgia College Department of Mathematics and Computer Science. The Georgia College team, which consisted of Joseph White, Tommy Lewis, and Allen Hoffmeyer, scored highest in the competition to win first

place overall. The competition consisted of a written test covering material from an undergraduate mathematics curriculum, ranging from freshman to senior level courses. The Georgia College team was one of seven teams participating in the competition, each consisting of three students. Other teams participating were made up of students from Mercer University, Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, Ga., University of West

Georgia College & State University Connection • Summer 2005

Georgia in Carrollton, Ga., and CarsonNewman College in Jefferson City, Tenn. Other Georgia College students participating in the contest were: Jessica Wehner, Sean Conway, Brandon Walker, Patrik Noren, and Sarah Baker. In addition to Edler, three Georgia College faculty members, Drs. Amy Kelley, Jason Huffman and Jason Stover, and freshman math major Kevin Bustabad, also attended the conference.

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Minority Business Program Receives Grants

A program aimed at increasing minority participation in business ownership received two grants from the Georgia Council on Economic Education that will assure continuation of the program. The first is a $1,500 grant that will go directly to the Black Youth and Business Program, said Dr. John Swinton, director of the Center for Economic Education in the J. Whitney Bunting School of Business. The second is a $6,500 grant that the Georgia Council on Economic Education secured through the National Council on Economic Education with funding from the (National) Excellence in Economic Education Act. “The grant from the Georgia Council will help assure the

continuation of one of the last two remaining minority business programs for high school students in Georgia,” said Swinton. The Black Youth and Business Program was introduced at Georgia College in 1985 by invitation from the University System of Georgia Board of Regents through the Small Business Development Center at the University of Georgia. It brings 20 to 25 high school juniors and seniors to campus for one week to participate in workshops conducted by Georgia College faculty and staff and local business leaders. Volunteers from the university and community serve as speakers, workshop leaders and role models. Applications for the program are sent to guidance counselors at high schools in the surrounding counties, and students are selected based on their academic achievement, Swinton said.

A participant makes a presentation at the Black Youth and Business Program.

Top Awards at The Academy of Science

Georgia College students made a good impression at the 82nd Annual Georgia Academy of Science meeting in April. Georgia College students gave 16 presentations based on student research in the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and two Georgia College students, Faith Owens and Robert Bahn, won top awards for their research. Owens received the Best Presentation by an Undergraduate Student in the Biological Sciences Section. Her talk was “Analysis of body shape variation of related taxa of Hybopsis (Cyprinidae) using distortion coordinates,” research she performed with Dr. Chris Skelton, assistant professor of biology, and Dr. Bill Wall, professor and chair of the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences. Bahn garnered the Best Presentation by a Graduate Student in the Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Section. The title of his talk was “Bison latifrons (Artiodactyla) from the Pleistocene of Brunswick, Georgia,” research done with faculty member Dr. Al Mead, assistant professor of biology Students also presenting papers were: Brooke N. Hawk, Michael Bender, Stephen R. Parrish, Stephanie S. Westmoreland, Ben Batchelor, Christy C. Cecil, B.R. Lemieux, Angeline Mouton, Shannon N. Shepley, Emily Parrish, Joseph W. Sheffield, Joshua L. Clark, Kelly A. Clark, Mark A Brewer, and Alex Kittle. “I am very proud of this level of student involvement in high quality scientific research,” said Wall. “Our students are clearly given the opportunity to actively experience what it means to be a scientist.”

Georgia College & State University Connection • Summer 2005

U P F R O N T Top counties for admitted Fall 2005 freshmen:

A look at our incoming students Our mission to offer the same sort of experience found at private liberal arts schools, but at a public institution, continues to generate increasing interest from prospective students and families, and this was the university’s most competitive year to date, said Mike Augustine, director of admissions. Approximately 3,200 students applied to join the freshman class for fall semester 2005. The average academic GPA of incoming freshmen was 3.27 (on a 4.0 scale) and the SAT average was holding at 1127 - a 12-point increase over last year’s average, Augustine said. This year, the Office of Admissions implemented a new “holistic” review process to evaluate each freshman applicant’s credentials to help hand pick students with characteristics that will create a talented, diverse and well-rounded class, he said. “We are looking forward to the contributions our new students will make to our university community when they arrive on campus this fall,” said Augustine.

Gwinnett . . .390 Cobb . . . . . .142 Fulton . . . . .142 Dekalb . . . . . .64 Columbia . . . .57 Houston . . . .56 Rockdale . . .56 Henry . . . . . .54 Fayette . . . . .50 Bibb . . . . . . .45

SIFE wins at regionals

Dr. John Swinton with members of the SIFE Team: Brandie Mosley (2004-05 SIFE President), Renee Sander, (back row, left to right): Amaka Ifionu Rapu Onyebuchi and Weston Milligan (2004-05 SIFE Treasurer).

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The Georgia College & State University Students in Free Enterprise Team won the SIFE Regional Championships in Atlanta April 14 and went on to compete in the national competition May 22-25 in Kansas City, Mo. Though the team did not win in the nationals, the judges praised the GC&SU team for doing an admirable job despite the fact that they were competing against much larger teams, said Dr. John Swinton, SIFE faculty advisor. “The judges’ comments were very positive,” he said. “This is a growing year. We were up against teams with 50 or 60 members and we have around 10 members. We’re looking to build on our experience.” The team won the Regional Championship in the overall competition in April, along with a trophy, sponsored by AFLAC, on their five projects in “Free Markets,” one of SIFE’s major emphasis areas. Ryan Donnelly, Laurel Monismith, and Andrew Townsend represented their team at the nationals. They were accompanied by Swinton and Dr. Richard Bialac, both designated as Sam Walton Fellows in Free Enterprise. “They’ve already been working on projects for next year’s competition,” said Swinton. “They helped with Black Youth and Business and are putting together a pamphlet for incoming freshmen about personal finance. They were inspired enough to get started right away on next year’s projects.”

Cover Story

The Grand Re-Opening Extensive restoration returns Old Governorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mansion to 1850s glory Story by Binky Strickland Photos by Tim Vacula

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n 1864, a group of people gathered by the light of flickering torches at the portico of Georgia’s Executive Mansion in Milledgeville as Confederate Gen. P.G.T. Beauregard rallied them to the Confederate cause. On Nov. 22 of that same year, Union Gen. William T. Sherman claimed the Mansion as his “prize,” making the building his headquarters on his infamous March to the Sea. More than 140 years later, on April 9, 2005, a group gathered at the front portico of the very same building – now one of Georgia’s most significant historic sites — to celebrate the Grand ReOpening following its $9 million restoration. Among the special guests on that overcast and breezy spring afternoon were former President Robert E. (Buzz) Lee; his daughter, Mary Dean Lee, who came to the re-opening from Canada, and his son, Robert Lott Lee, who flew in from Costa Rica. Descendants of former university presidents and state and local dignitaries were there to witness the event. State Sen. Johnny Grant proclaimed it as “a good day to be a Georgian,” the ribbon was cut by Georgia College President Dorothy Leland, and visitors saw for the first time the results of painstaking research and restoration work that has taken place since 2001, when the multi-million dollar project, funded through the Georgia General Assembly and a grant from the Woodruff Foundation, officially began. The Old Governor’s Mansion is a structure “near and dear to my heart,” said Jim Turner, director of the Old Governor’s Mansion, in his speech to all who gathered for the historic event. Turner has seen the project through to its glorious finale, from the first shovel of dirt to the final touches in the thirdfloor bedrooms. A new Education Building was constructed that hosts tour orientations, exhibits, and lectures. A new Visitors’

Top: The salon, main floor. Bottom: The servant’s quarters, ground floor. Center, which contains a museum store, accentuates the main building. The Mansion officially opened for tours in February. Since that time, busloads of people from all over the U.S., and from Europe and South America, have viewed the magnificent structure, said to be one of the finest example of High Greek Revival architecture in the nation. Articles have appeared in Milledgeville’s local newspapers as well as The Atlanta-Journal Constitution and The Macon-Telegraph, Preservation Magazine

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online and in several architectural trade journals. It was also featured as part of The Conquerors series May 22 on The History Channel. In addition, Turner and his staff were surprised to find that the Mansion received the prestigious Marguerite Williams Award for excellence in historic preservation when they attended the annual meeting of the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation held April 2. The Georgia College contingency were aware that the mansion had received an

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Excellence in Restoration Award, but the Marguerite Williams Award recipient was not revealed until the ceremony. “I was very proud and humbled when our name was announced,” said Turner. “This was quite an honor to be recognized for our hard work and dedication.” The Mansion is destined to be one of the most popular tourist attractions in the southeast, Turner said. “As stewards of a historic house museum, our primary mission will be education. Because of its interest to tourists, the mansion will be a boon to the local economy. It should heighten interest in Milledgeville’s historic district and its status as the antebellum capital of the state,” he said.

The History

The work literally began at ground level with an archeological excavation of the Mansion grounds, and included restoration of the original layout, colorations, lighting, and appearance of the building. The structure also received new mechanical and electrical systems, and a new roof. The original picket fence around the perimeter of the property has also been authentically reproduced. Completed in 1839, when Georgia was known as the Empire State, the Old Governor’s Mansion was designed by

noted architect Charles Clusky, an Irish immigrant, and built by Timothy Porter of Farmington, Conn., to reflect that designation. The cost of construction was $50,000, a “tidy sum of money in those days,” Jim Turner said. The building served as the residence for Georgia’s chief executives for more than 30 years and its history encompasses the Antebellum, Civil War, and early Reconstruction phases of the state’s history. In October of 1839, the first governor, Charles McDonald, and his new bride, along with their servants moved into the Mansion. Seven other governors would follow until the capital was relocated to Atlanta in 1868, including the state’s only Whig party governor, George W. Crawford. “Others of prominence were Gov. Howell Cobb, who entertained quite lavishly, Gov. Hershel Johnson, who went on to run as the Democratic vice presidential candidate in the elections of 1861 against Abraham Lincoln, and our Civil War governor, Joseph Emerson Brown,” Turner said. “Gov. Cobb went on to serve as Secretary of the Treasury under President James Buchanan. Gov. Brown served four consecutive terms leading the state through the tumultuous years of the Civil War.” Following the war, Georgia’s seat of government was relocated to Atlanta,

Construction of the Executive Mansion begins Mansion construction is complete, total cost of $50,000

1836

1839

and the Mansion was abandoned. It was given over to Georgia Military College in 1879 and was used as a dormitory for cadets until 1889, when it was given to the newly chartered Georgia Normal & Industrial College, now Georgia College & State University.

The Restoration

Over the many years that followed, the Mansion underwent a series of renovations, or rehabilitations for adaptive use, the most extensive being done in the mid-1960s, Turner said. In the late 1990s, the university, working with its Foundation, made the decision to restore the Mansion to its former grandeur. Following several years of intensive historical, structural, and material research, the Old Governor’s Mansion began its long awaited historic restoration in November 2001. “Aside from its rich social and political history, the building is also considered one of the finest examples of High Greek Revival architecture in our country,” he said at the Grand Re-Opening ceremony. “It is a microcosm of true Southern history and a legacy to every Georgian. We should all be very proud to see it returned to its former glory.” ❖

Served as home to eight of Georgia’s governors • 1839-43 – Gov. Charles McDonald • 1843-47 – Gov. George W. Crawford • 1847-51 – Gov. George W. Towns • 1851-53 – Gov. Howell Cobb • 1853-57 – Gov. Hershel B. Johnson • 1857-65 – Gov. Joseph E. Brown • 1865-68 – Gov. Charles Jenkins • 1868 – Gen. Thomas Ruger (provisional)

1839-1868

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A Closer Look

When the original windows were retrieved from the attic, etchings on the window panes made by students who lived at the Mansion were discovered. The women wrote such notes as “3 weeks till xmas,” “I love M. Kradick,” and “Study Hall, March 15, 1911.” Jim Turner found what he thought to be a piece of roofing tar paper wedged above the front portico in the attic. He washed it off and discovered it was a piece of the original floor cloth. So, the floor cloth was painstakingly reproduced for the floor of the rotunda. It is made of canvas and hand painted with acrylics.

Interior carpets are woven in 26-inch strips and sewn together to replicate how they were made in the 19th Century due to the fact that no large looms were available. The rugs are the original Brussels and Axminster patterns, made in England. In the exterior restoration, a historically correct recipe for stucco, using horsehair as a binder, was used. The exterior picket fence and gate are replicated from the mid-19th Century exterior images of the building. Window shutters were replicated from the mid-19th Century exterior images of the building and are constructed of mahogany so that they do not decay. The rotunda of the Mansion is gilded in 23 karat gold and the interior hardware on the main floor and top level is English Sheffield silver. Much of it is original.

All fabrics used in the Mansion are authentic to 19th Century textiles – cotton, wool, silk, mohair and horsehair.

Union Gen. William T. Sherman uses it for his headquarters

Henry Clay, a national Whig party leader, visited the mansion as a guest of Gov. Crawford, the only Whig governor elected in the state’s history.

1844

1864

Confederate Gen. PGT Beauregard spoke from the Mansion portico to a torchlight parade to rally people to the Confederate cause.

In a ceremony performed in the dining room of the Mansion, in the presence of former Gov. and Mrs. Brown and family, and a large company of friends, A. DeLamotta, a free black in the service of the Browns, married Sarah Emma, a long-time slave of the Browns. Gov. Brown was arrested by the Union authorities and imprisoned in Washington, D.C., for nine days.

November 22, 1864

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1865

All interior chandeliers were reproduced from 19th Century Hooper & Co. originals. Hooper was the preeminent lighting manufacturer in mid-19th Century. A program was initiated to recover the portraits of the governors who lived in the Mansion from their descendants. All but one – the portrait of Gov. Charles McDonald – was acquired. During the 1850s, there were a number of outbuildings in the back of the Mansion: the kitchen, Negro House, wash house, chicken house, stable, bath house, wagon shed, and a privy. The state insured the outbuildings in 1857. Originally it was assumed that brick pavers would have been used for flooring on the lower level floor, but archeology showed that the floors were heart pine. Therefore, reclaimed 19th Century heart pine was acquired and installed.

Flue openings in several of the rooms were discovered proving that “column” stoves were used. Two are in the state dining room, one in the governor’s office, and one in the master bedroom. The painted window shades were in vogue in the 19th Century in particular. The handpainted linen shades in the Morning Room in the Old Governor’s Mansion depict courting scenes.

Mansion undergoes $5,000 renovation and begins serving as dormitory for GN&IC students and as a residence for its presidents and their families: Used as a barracks for 1891-1902 – Dr. J. Harris Chappell Georgia Military College 1902-28 – Dr. Marvin A. Parks 1928-34 – Dr. J. L. Beeson 1934-53 – Dr. Guy H. Wells Mansion annex is Turned over to the 1953-56 – Dr. Henry King Stanford erected as a dormitory Georgia Normal & Industrial College 1956-67 – Dr. Robert E. Lee No longer used 1968-81 – Dr. J. Whitney Bunting as dormitory 1981-87 – Dr. Edwin Speir Jr.

1868-1889

1889

1890

1893

1947

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Mansion Tours and Resources The Old Governor’s Mansion is open to the public for guided tours Tuesdays-Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and each Sunday from 2-4 p.m. The Mansion is closed on Mondays and holidays, the week after Thanksgiving, and the week after Christmas. Tours begin on the hour. Regular Admission: $10 per person Pre-booked Adult Tours: $7 per person Senior Tours: $6 per person Students: $2 each Children under 6: Free

How to Schedule a Tour (Group tours are by reservation only.) Call the Old Governor’s Mansion at (478) 445-4545, between 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. All tours are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Groups cannot exceed 40.

The Museum Store The Museum Store of the Old Governor’s Mansion is located in the rear of the Mansion at the visitors’ center. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays; 2 to 4 p.m. Sundays. Anyone, including persons not touring the Mansion, can shop at the Museum Store during those hours. The Museum Store has an array of gift items pertaining to the Old Governor’s Mansion and Civil War history, from Tshirts, cups, bookmarks, notepads, and refrigerator magnets to key chains, lapel pins and other memorabilia and souvenirs, said Joy Norman, museum store manager. Some Christmas ornaments are already available, and other items are on order, Norman said.

School Tour Program The Old Governor’s Mansion, through its interactive tours, exhibits, and artifacts, now offers students unprecedented opportunities to experience what life was like in a nineteenth century environment. Through the use of the physical space, activities, and interpretation, the Mansion’s staff provides students and teachers with a chance to gain a better understanding of Georgia history through comparison of our lives today to the past. The Mansion staff has developed an integrated educational resource website which contains a set of lesson plans for 4th and 8th grade social studies students. The Mansion also offers in-school history programming, and exhibits for special functions or events, which include classroom will exercises, courthouse document demonstrations, and exhibits on slave culture during the Antebellum period. To arrange an educational tour or program, please contact Matthew Davis at (478) 445-4545.

Outreach Activities The Old Governor’s Mansion offers a wide assortment of community educational opportunities and public outreach programs designed to further the educational mission of the museum. Aside from its school tour program, the Mansion offers many wide-ranging outreach activities for the community atlarge. The Mansion is currently offering an innovative educational program at Reynolds Plantation known as the Reynolds Series, a continuing education program designed for lectures on Georgia history and related topics. In the coming months, more community outreach programs will be added to the Mansion’s educational programming. For information on any of these programs, please contact the Mansion offices at (478) 445-4545.

The Speirs move out of the Mansion and the space becomes the president’s office and quarters for special guests Underwent renovation and refurbishing

Dr. Rosemary DePaolo moves the president’s office to Parks Hall and the Mansion begins serving solely as a museum and banquet facility.

Mansion Annex demolished Designated a National Historic Landmark

1964-1967 1968 14

1973

Officially re-opens for tours on February 25

Restoration begins in November

1987

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1996

2001

Receives the Marguerite Williams Award and the Excellence in Restoration Award from the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation on April 2 Grand Re-Opening Ceremony on April 9

2005

Cover Story Children of the Mansion

Presidents’ kids grow up in historic home

By B INKY STRICKLAND

here’s at least one facet of life in the Old Governor’s Mansion that three of its former occupants – three daughters of Georgia College presidents – share. Music. When the family of President Robert E. Lee lived in the Mansion, the second floor ballroom was bare except for a grand piano and a few floor-toceiling mirrors in ornate gilt frames, recalled his daughter, Mary Dean Lee. “That’s where I practiced the piano every morning for an hour before going off to school and then another hour in the evening usually,” she said. “When I was 14, I actually gave a solo piano recital in that room, an hour long, with about 100 guests.” Lynn Speir, the daughter of President Edwin G. Speir, recalls the choirs and brass quartets playing in the rotunda, and the music of special catered events. She can conjure up the sounds of her mother, Sue, teaching piano lessons, and both her mother and sister Jennifer playing the piano for family gatherings and tea parties. “The sound of the piano would echo throughout the mansion and it was wonderful,” she said. Music is only one feature that binds together the experiences of growing up in the Mansion. Mary Dean and Robert Lott Lee Parents: Dr. Robert E. (Buzz) Lee and Mary Dean Lott Lee When the Lee family moved into the Mansion in 1956, the entire space

The family of President Robert E. Lee pose in front of the Old Governor’s Mansion, which served as their home from 1956-67: Front row (left to right) Bill Lee, Robert Lee, Mary Dean (“Deanie”) Lee; Back row, Mary Dean Lott Lee and Dr. Robert E. Lee. served as their living quarters, said Mary Dean Lee, who was 11 at the time of the move. The third floor was their primary quarters, however, and contained the bedrooms and a small breakfast room off the rotunda. On the first floor there was a kitchen and dining room, a living room, den and playroom. The play-

room was a popular feature of the house because it featured pool and Ping Pong tables and even a shuffle board court. “The playroom was a great attraction for friends in the neighborhood, and sometimes people would show up whom we didn’t really know — just wanting to use the facilities,” said Lee,

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who is a professor of organizational behavior at McGill College in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Despite its charm and history, the Old Governor’s Mansion was drafty and there was inadequate heating when the Lee family lived there. Mary Dean Lee has memories of her mother preparing a fire in the bedroom fireplace before they went to bed and lighting it first thing in the morning. “Then she would put out our clothes over the screen to get them warmed before waking us up,” she said. “We would hop out of our beds and gather by the fire to get dressed.” President Lee and his wife entertained many college guests, faculty and students in the Mansion. “There was always lots of laughter, game playing (like charades, Scrabble, bridge), and singing around the piano whenever guests were invited in,” she said. Her parents invited the student leaders in for brownies and scuppernong ice cream in the evening at the beginning of the school year. Robert Lee was in the first grade at Peabody Elementary School when the Lee family moved into the Mansion. “My friends and I played touch football frequently on the grounds,” said Lee, a licensed psychologist who lives in Costa Rica and is coordinator for the International Focusing Institute. Lee said he always felt a very special connection to the mansion, a sense of its place in history and as an ongoing context for special family experiences. “My address was The Mansion, Milledgeville, Ga.,” he said. “That always got a lot of looks.” Whitney B. Pickett Parents: President J. Whitney Bunting and Mildred Bunting When Georgia College President J. Whitney Bunting and his wife, Mildred

Jennifer Speir Hearn and her cousin Martha Beatley had tea in the Mansion when the Speir family lived there from 1981-87

G. Bunting, moved to the Old Governor’s Mansion in December 1967, their daughter, Whitney, had already graduated from the School of Pharmacy at the University of Georgia and had begun an internship at the Medical College of Georgia. She eventually became associate director there and retired in 1998 after 31 years. Whitney Bunting Pickett has many memories of visiting the mansion, especially after her children were born. Daughter Leslie S. Pickett Sheehan, now 36 and an attorney in Savannah, and L. Price Pickett, 34, a certified real estate appraiser in Jacksonville, Fla., visited their grandparents many times at the Mansion. “Although none of us ever lived in the Mansion, we enjoyed many wonderful visits during holidays and other special occasions,” she said. “We could enjoy the residence on the top floor, and take the elevator to the basement floor to the historic kitchen and visit with Olivia (Thomas) and Miss (Mary Jo) Thompson,” Pickett said. “On the top floor, all the rooms opened onto the rotunda. There you could look up to the beautiful rotunda ceiling and down to the main floor. Leslie and Price particularly enjoyed riding their tricycles around the rotunda on the residence floor and watching the tours below given by Miss Thompson, Olivia, or college students.” Lynn Speir and Jennifer Speir Hearn Parents: President Edwin G. Speir Jr. and Sue Speir In August of 1981 the Speir family arrived in Milledgeville – President Edwin G. Speir Jr., his wife, Sue, and daughters Sarah, who was a sophomore of the University of Wisconsin, Madison; Lynn, in the eighth grade; and Jennifer, a junior in high school. But it would be winter before they

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would actually move into the Mansion, since their quarters on the third floor were undergoing renovation. Lynn Speir’s recollections also include “all those doors in one big circle around the rotunda!” There was the spiral staircase that was “important for us — to sneak in and out without feeling social pressure when an event was taking place,” a doorbell that rang when someone was coming in for a tour or visiting after hours, the elevator which members of the family had to remember to close so the Mansion staff could use it, and the rotunda railing which was not to be leaned on. And there were things that went “bump” in the night. “When our parents were traveling, Jen and I would hear loud sounds and I’d think about all the space above me in the attic and below me in the museum,” she said. “We even called campus security a couple times, but the Mansion just had its own pulse and it was always just ‘nothing’... but it was something in my mind.” Jennifer Speir Hearn, now a French teacher in Atlanta, recalls walking home from Baldwin High School on a hot day, looking forward to entering the cool, ground-level floor of the mansion. “I’d come in and Olivia, if not giving a tour, would be sitting in the kitchen,” she said. “She was always as glad to see me as I was her. We’d have some iced tea, very sweet, and something fresh she’d just made, like those dinner rolls or cookies.” The fire escape to her bedroom became a means by which her friends could visit and the roof gave them a private place to sit and gaze at the panorama before them. “We’d go up through the attic and take the stairs to the roof to just sit and talk,” she said. “There’s a great view of town and the campus.” ❖

Cover Story Mansion grounds restored, too

GC&SU grounds crew takes pride in Mansion lawn By B INKY STRICKLAND

tour around the grounds of the Old Governor’s Mansion is a trip back in time, when ladies in hoop skirts took evening strolls on a summer’s night and smelled the heady fragrance of tea olive, Confederate jasmine, and gardenia wafting on the warm breeze. The landscape is open and easy to move around in, with wide expanses of lush, green lawn. It’s easy to imagine tea parties and games of croquet that may have taken place when the Mansion served as home to Georgia’s governors. There are flowers blooming in every corner: yellow yarrow, purple coneflower, Rose Campion and blue hydrangea. In early spring, old-fashioned bearded irises bloom along the fence, and in mid-May, begonias and geraniums grow in a profusion of bright red along the walkway toward the Mansion’s side entrance. Later in the summer, the chrysanthemums brighten the way along the fence. “I tried to do a little bit of color here and there so you could see it all over the place,” said Susan Daniels, grounds manager at Georgia College who designed and oversaw the installation of the landscape restoration. “There’s something blooming year round.” Daniels’s first task was to find out which plants were popular during the time period when the building served as the Governor’s Mansion. She met with Mansion Director Jim Turner, botanist Harriett Whipple and James Cothran (author of Gardens and Historic Plants of the Antebellum South) to decide on a plan. Susan Daniels, grounds manager, looks over information about historic plants of the antebellum period. Georgia College & State University Connection • Summer 2005

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“We discussed which existing plants needed to be removed – the things that were not of the period – and they gave me books to read about historic gardening.” Consulting the reference materials, including Cothran’s book, Ladies’ Southern Florist by Mary C. Rion (a facsimile of the 1860 edition) and web resources, Daniels came up with a detailed list of more than 200 horticultural plantings, including ground cover, shrubs, trees, vines, and perennials and roses. “It’s interesting to track the origin of the plant,” she said. “It may have originated in China, then arrived in England and later came to America.” The roses in the rose garden are “the old-timey roses, not fancy tea roses,” she said. The garden will eventually contain an arbor and benches where visitors can enjoy the view and the wonderful fragrances from a palette of roses that includes Blush Noisette, Slater’s Crimson, Archduke Charles, Isabella Sprunt, Mme. Charles, and Champney’s Pink cluster. There is even Cloth of Gold, a rose that was mentioned by Mary Ann Cobb, wife of Gov. Howell Cobb, in a letter to her brother. Before the work began, the grounds were re-graded in areas to promote better drainage, the sod was laid, and an irrigation system was installed. Then the plantings of hundreds of perennial, shrubs, ground cover, vines, and trees took place at a frantic pace, moving toward the date of the April Grand ReOpening. Daniels said she will probably be happy with the overall plan in about three years, when the installation is established and the roses and jasmine vines are creeping over arbors and along the brick walls; when the red

Daniels and Robert Lemmon, who oversees Mansion building maintenance and grounds, discuss the landscape plan.

sourwood and sweet shrubs are flourishing, the weeping willow is gently swaying in the breeze, and the ripe fruit is hanging from the branches of the pomegranate tree. But, for the time being, as people wander around the grounds after touring the Old Governor’s Mansion, they can stroll the grounds simply for the pleasure of its beauty, or they can learn a bit by stopping to read the name plates that contain the botanical and common names of all the perennials,

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shrubs and trees. And sometimes a name will conjure up memories of days gone by – Oleander, Bridal Wreath, Crepe Myrtle, Southern Magnolia, Cherry Laurel, Carolina Jessamine, Hollyhock, Ox-eye Daisy, Maiden Pinks and Queen Anne’s Lace. “People say, ‘I remember that my grandmother had one of those,’” said Robert Lemmon, who has the task of maintaining the grounds. “They see the Queen Anne’s Lace and say, ‘Oh, I remember those!’” ❖

Around Campus President Leland surveys campus community on possible name change

resident Dorothy Leland recently surveyed faculty, staff, students, alumni and friends of the university about what they thought of changing the name of Georgia College & State University to “Georgia College.” Among faculty and alumni, there was majority support for the proposed name change, particularly if the word “the” was dropped from the proposal. A majority of staff opposed the name change proposal, based primarily on concerns over cost and the belief that resources expended for a name change should be used to raise staff salaries. Students overwhelmingly opposed the change based on concerns that it would cause tuition to rise and that dropping “university” from the name would diminish the value of their education. Leland said she believes that the strong association in the minds of

younger Georgians between “college” and “two-year institution” could have a negative impact on the university’s recruitment and retention goals if we were to adopt the name change proposal. For this reason, she said it would be unwise to forward the original name change proposal to the University System of Georgia Board of Regents at this time. On the other hand, the many people who supported the name change proposal voiced legitimate concerns

about the current name. In the spring, Leland appointed an advisory committee to consider possible compromise solutions. Based on its review of the comments and suggestions provided by survey participants, the advisory committee unanimously endorsed an option frequently mentioned in the survey: to retain "Georgia College & State University" as our formal name but to adopt “Georgia College” as an official short version of this name and to develop a corresponding visual identity strategy. Staff are currently following up on this recommendation. When completed, the results of their work will be made available to faculty, staff, students, alumni and friends for review and comment before any final decisions are made. ❖

A College of Distinction Georgia College is now featured in Colleges of Distinction, a new college guide profiling some of America’s best bets in higher education. Based on the opinions of guidance counselors, educators, and admissions professionals, Colleges of Distinction honors colleges that excel in key areas of educational quality. “This is a great honor for any college,” explained Dr. Ruth McClellandNugent, chief editor for the publication. “The schools in this book are some of the very best in the country. Some are household names, some are ‘hidden gems;’ what they all share is that they are all great places to get an education.”

In order to qualify for inclusion, Georgia College was evaluated for its performance in the “Four Distinctions:” Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Communities, and Successful Outcomes. “These are areas that really matter to students,” said McClelland-Nugent. Guidance counselors and admissions professionals around the country recommended Georgia College highly in every category. Georgia College will be extensively profiled in the forthcoming book, Colleges of Distinction, which will be published later this year.

College seekers can visit the site to learn more about the colleges, read tips from high school guidance counselors, and essays from college students, presidents, and other members of different campus communities. The colleges and universities listed in the guide include schools from every area of the country. Their average faculty-student ratio is 13:1, and most have an average class size of around 20. The schools vary in size from universities of 7,000 to small liberal arts colleges of 1,000 or fewer students. For more information, visit www.collegesofdistinction.com.

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Oh, the Places You’ll Go Study Abroad opportunities give faculty, students chance to travel the globe

r. Seuss had it right. “Oh the places you’ll go,” he wrote. “You’ll be on your way up! You’ll be seeing great sights!” When summer came, this Seussical wisdom prompted many GC&SU faculty and students to “get on their way.” Across the world they flew from Thailand to Chile, Malta to Australia, Belize to Germany, from Sri Lanka to Moldova. The pilgrimaging professors dotted the world at 40 strong, with nearly 200 students at their side, representative of many disciplines within the sciences, arts, education, and business. We have cited two examples of the recent flurry of travel. In May, Dr. Melanie DeVore, associate professor in the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences,

and Dr. Sunita Manian, associate professor in the Department of Government and Sociology, led a group to Salvador Island, Bahamas. For the last six years, GC&SU has conducted research in San Salvador. At the converted Cold War base, now Gerace Research Center, DeVore and Manian worked with 17 GC&SU students in the areas of environmental science, global issues and tropical ecology. “We traveled to the outer cays to visit bird rookeries, populations of the endangered Bahamian Rock Iguana, mangrove swamps, caves, sites of Loyalist plantations and the Cockburn Town fossil reef,” DeVore said. In addition to class and field research, the GC&SU covey worked in a nearby high school, cleaning and analyzing beach debris with “Mrs. Stubbs

Dr. Melanie DeVore (left), Dr. Brian Mumma, and Dr. Sunita Manian

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By ZACH KINCAID 10th grade class,” DeVore noted. Across the ocean, Dr. Brian Mumma, assistant professor in the Department of Foundations and Secondary Education, took a group of students to Sweden, a program in its seventh year. Ten students joined Mumma for about a month in the rural farming cities of Edsbyn and Alfta. Students lived with families and worked in the small schools that were typical for the area. “My main hope is to engage (Georgia College) students in meaningful cultural experiences that broaden their views and make connections they can use professionally in their teaching,” Mumma said. One such experience is the “fika.” “It is best described as snack time, where families or colleagues gather over

GC&SU students studied the fossil reef on San Salvador Island, Bahamas, with Dr. Melanie DeVore. strong coffee and homemade snacks,” he said. “The purpose is both for the development of community and the relaxation of enjoying the company of those around you on a daily basis.” The value of such world travel certainly centers in ongoing education and it feeds into the classroom experience back on the GC&SU campus, said Dr. Dwight Call, assistant vice president for international education. “Faculty members who have significant immersion experiences abroad — teaching on study abroad programs, teaching on exchange at partner universities, and participating in faculty development seminars, learn to see the world from other points of view,” he said. “Invariably, they share their experiences and new perspectives with their students and greatly enrich their students’ learning. At the same time, their

A group of students gathered in front of the Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia. They were accompanied by Drs. Catherine Whelan, assistant professor of accounting, and Sally Hendry, assistant professor in the Department of Information Systems and Communications. ‘modeling behavior’ encourages students to step outside their own world view.” Oh the places you’ll go – to the Great Barrier Reef like Dr. Sally Hendry, assistant professor of Information Systems and Communications; to the former

Communist streets of Olomouc, Czech Republic, like James Arias, assistant professor of economics, and Richard Mercier, associate professor of music; or to the Kingdom of Thailand like Dr. Patti Tolbert, associate professor of music education. ❖

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A letter from a Moravian City: Teaching Jazz and American History Abroad By BOB WILSON

ince Feb. 1, I have had the extraordinary opportunity of teaching history to Czech students in Olomouc, a beautiful Moravian city that still retains much of its medieval character. I am here through the courtesy of the GC&SU International Education Center, directed by Dr. Dwight Call, and through the support of Dr. Lee Ann Caldwell, the chair of the Department of History, Geography, and Philosophy. In 2003 Dr. Todd Shiver invited me to accompany the GC&SU Jazz Band on a May tour of the Czech Republic, and I promised myself that I would return at the first opportunity. I arrived in Olomouc on Feb. 1, a cold and blustery, snowy day and have taught at Palacky University through May. As I write this, I can look out of my office window over medieval walls into a flowering park, watered by a branch of the Morava River. Palacky has its founding roots in the 1570s and is quite proud of its heritage. I am teaching three courses—The Age of Jefferson, The Southern Mind — Continuity and Discontinuity, and the History of Jazz. The first two courses are housed in the Philosophical Faculty building (similar to our School of Liberal Arts & Sciences) and the jazz course is taught in a beautifully restored, 16th century convent established by the Jesuits. All my students speak English and indeed most of them signed up for the courses as an option which would allow them to pursue their English language skills and, at the same time, learn something about North American history and culture. These courses are something of an

experiment since no one from GC&SU has ever taught here for a full semester. The experiment seems to have been successful, but it has exposed me (and the students) to rather contrasting styles in education. Palacky University, inspired by the 1989 revolution which saw the end of the Communist government in the Czech Republic, is quite open and democratic in its structure. For instance, the rector (president) and the college deans are elected every three years by a University Senate, one third of which is comprised of students. The process of registering for courses is very flexible, if not slightly chaotic. Students can register for several courses that meet at the same time, and then decide which ones they actually wish to attend. One can be teaching for nearly a month before one has a clear sense of who is actually in the class. I have had some exceptionally bright, hard working students. Two young Czech women, Pavla and Barbora, have demonstrated a knowledge of Thomas Jefferson and the early Republic that few Americans achieve. Nonetheless, since the courses are pass/fail, students who did the bare minumum receive exactly the same evaluation—Zapacteno (passed). The students were required to write an end-ofterm research paper and, according to custom here, are examined orally, oneon-one, in what is called a Colloquium. Each student carries about a little book called an “index,” and the course instructor signs his name under his course title, indicating that the student has passed. There is essentially no centralized system for recording grades.

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My courses, except for the jazz history course, which consisted of lectures and recordings, were conducted as seminars. The students eventually responded to this method wonderfully well, but for most it was a new experience. The Czech secondary educational system, though it is slowly changing, tends to emphasize memorization and recitation over analysis and critical thought. Their opinions and thoughts are not often solicited, and consequently there was an adjustment period. They told me, however, how appreciative they were of the opportunity to explore historical issues of causality and to be able to advance their own ideas. Upper division courses here, it should be noted, do tend to move away from the “sage on the stage” model, and the graduate programs are quite rigorous. Palacky does not share the current American obsession with assessment, rather trusting professional academics to create a meaningful learning environment without externally imposed evaluative measures. The faculty that I’ve met at Palacky are scholars, earnestly committed to excellence in research and teaching, despite low salaries. Notwithstanding the challenges which I’ve suggested, there is an atmosphere here of serious academic purpose which would make the institution’s Jesuit founders quite proud. ❖ Bob Wilson is a professor of history and university historian.

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Old Methodist Church restored, becomes activities center for students By B INKY STRICKLAND

The International Dinner was held in the newly renovated Magnolia Room of the Student Activities Center, formerly the First United Methodist Church.

C&SU held an official ribbon cutting ceremony Jan. 24 commemorating the opening of its new Student Activities Center in the renovated former First United Methodist Church building on Hancock Street in Milledgeville. In conjunction with the opening, there was a week-long celebration with special activities for the students taking place throughout the building. “The Student Activities Center is a loud voice echoing the importance of cocurricular activities,” said Tom Miles, director of student activities. “The value of the out-of-the-classroom experience should never be underestimated. Our students learn so much from being a part of an organization or from participating in campus activities.” The GC&SU Foundation Property Limited Liability Corp. purchased the First United Methodist Church building in 2003 for $800,000 and oversaw the renovation to its successful conclusion. In addition, students agreed to pay a special $42-per semester student activity fee to help support the project. The GC&SU Student Government Association unanimously approved the increased fee in an effort to provide additional programming options for the Office of Student Activities. Students voiced their concerns many times over the years about the need for a Student Activities Center because of the difficulty they had in reserving space for their programs and activities, said Dr. Bruce Harshbarger, vice president and dean of students. “Student groups have struggled to find places that can accommodate larger events,” he said. “At the same time, the

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activity levels of student organizations have grown dramatically. We now have 170 organizations which program events during the daytime, at night, and on weekends. The addition of the new Student Center couldn’t have come at a more crucial time.” Harshbarger said the idea of renovating the church into a place for the students could not have become a reality without the vision of the GC&SU Foundation Board. “Through a bond issue to be paid off over 20 years by a student fee, they were able not only to meet our students’ needs, but to help the university to play an important role in the historic preservation of downtown Milledgeville,” Harshbarger said. The $6.2 million renovation project which began in the spring of 2004 is designed to create a vibrant campus life important to the university’s mission as Georgia public liberal arts university. “We were pleased to be able to help the university acquire the church and thus provide much needed space for the students,” said Bill Hartley, chairman of the GC&SU Foundation Property LLC. More than 120 student organizations use the building for leadership training, meetings, planning of activities, leisure activities, and more. A staff of 20-plus students will keep it open and running, Miles said. The 26,200-square-foot former Methodist Church, built in 1913, has been completely re-done, from the new landscape and hardscape design with walkways and large spheres that mirror the columns and windows of the building, to the sanctuary – now called the Magnolia Room — with its refurbished stained glass dome. Dunwody, Beeland Architects was the designer of the project and Chris R. Sheridan was the contract manager.

The beautiful stained glass panels were restored to the dome of the Magnolia Room. GC&SU provided project management and an inspection team. “The project was challenging,” said Gene Dunwody Sr. “It’s hard enough to just restore a building for its original use, but even more so to convert it for another activity while maintaining the historic design. It was necessary to bring it into conformance with current building codes. We’re pleased with the finished product and hope that the student body is also.” Inside, on the second floor, the original pressed tin ceiling remains in the front office and former sanctuary. And beautiful stained glass has been restored to its original place in a dome in the center of the room. The stained glass had been removed when the ceiling

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leaked and had been safely stored by a church member for several years. It was completely intact and every piece slid right into place, said Donnie Beasley, project manager. “We tried to keep the integrity of the original building” said Beasley. “We wanted the building to remain as close to the way it was as possible.” The room now has a state-of-the-art sound system and floor-to-ceiling drapes that operate by remote control and can completely cover the huge windows so that movies can be shown. “I think it’s a nice building – one of the best things to happen to this campus since I’ve been here,” said Randy Jackson, a senior from Marietta majoring in psychology and SGA senator. ❖

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The “i” in iPod continues to expand across campus Ideas and suggestions for engaging Georgia College students beyond the classroom using iPods are becoming more than just “iDreams.” By BARBARA MONNETT A select group of freshmen will become part of the “iVillage” community beginning Fall 2005. Envisioned as a virtual community, iVillage will allow students to stay connected with each other and Apple executives through their iPods. The idea of an iVillage fits into the liberal arts mission, which includes a residential campus that promotes an educational experience as part of the student’s everyday life, said Dr. Jim Wolfgang, GC&SU Chief Information Officer. “We then said, ‘Let’s go beyond typical academia,’” he said. The iVillage concept seemed to fit into our vision.” Wolfgang said using the iPod to create the iVillage, could be a transitional tool for students between high school and higher education. The iVillage should enhance the students’ quality of life by encouraging them to stay in school, and it would provide more of a comprehensive environment, he said. iVillage is a collaboration between Georgia College and Apple Computer, Inc. Students will have the direct ear of Apple executives in higher education and will provide insight into life on a college campus. “The Georgia College iVillage is a window into the future of education, where learning takes place 24 hours a day, anywhere the student may be,” said John Couch, Apple’s vice president of education. “The school’s creative integration of iPod and iTunes into the curriculum exemplifies its innovative spirit and commitment to innovative education.” Twenty-five freshmen will be selected for the initial project. These students will eventually become connected with several high school students who plan to attend Georgia College in Fall 2006. They each receive an iPod for their participation. Because of the interest in the iPod project, President Dorothy Leland and several faculty members and students were invited to participate in a webcast held April 26 presented by MacEnterprise. “The Georgia College iPod project appeared in newspapers in Japan, Australia, England and Canada,” said Wolfgang. “Viewers of the webcast were as far away as Tel Aviv, Switzerland, Germany, Canada and Great Britain, so we have achieved international notoriety.” Other schools that have participated in iPod projects include Rice University, University of Michigan, and the University of Missouri’s School of Journalism. ❖

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School of Business Partnerships Matter

By B INKY STRICKLAND

n business, partnership is key. At the J. Whitney Bunting School of Business at Georgia College, one expression of partnership is with community leaders that make up the Advisory Board. Dedicated to providing advice, counsel, support and mentorship to the students, faculty and administration, the Advisory Board has provided insight since its conception in 1977. “It is so important for the educational industry to partner with leaders from business,” said Dr. Faye Gilbert, dean of the School of Business. “The members of this board seem to relish the time they spend on educational issues.” Former Dean Jo Ann Jones (19862003) agrees: “The board provides the bridge between ‘theory’ and the ‘real world’ of business.” The mission of the board states that the members “provide advice, guidance, and support for the continuing development of high quality business programs at Georgia College & State University.” This mission is fleshed out in many ways. For example, the board was instrumental in endowing a new scholarship to honor a retiring faculty member, Dr. Harry Glover. Their latest meeting also concentrated on improved ways to increase alumni outreach and graduate program awareness. The Advisory Board is another way that Georgia College is educating students to work together with the community around them and strive to offer new initiatives and respect the opinions of others in mutual partnerships. Board members who attended the May meeting included: Jim Doyle, Engelhard Corporation, chair; Rhonda

Members of the School of Business Advisory Board recently took a tour of the Old Governor’s Mansion. Wood, U.S. Office of Personnel Management, vice chair; Rich Bertoli, New Capital Dimensions Inc.; Mildred Bunting, honorary member; Sandy Burgess, Burgess Pigment Co.; Rick Cogdell, Horton Homes Inc; Larry Entrekin, Mohawk Industries; Dr. Anne Gormly, vice president and dean of faculties; Georgia Sen. Johnny Grant; Milledgeville Mayor Floyd Griffin; David McMillan, Century Bank & Trust; Robert McMillan, retired, founder of the Specht endowment; Rob Mitchell, Reynolds Plantation; Larry Moore, retired, AT&T; Amy Nitsche, vice president for university advancement, GC&SU; Henry Pope, Exchange Bank; Clay Shomaker, GEICO; Mark Stevens, New Southern Bank; Tony Tan, Arayoz Inc; Rod Theus, BB&T; Debbie Thompson, Antebellum Inn; and Ed Walker, Engelhard Corporation. ❖

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Whitney Bunting Pickett, daughter of former Georgia College President J. Whitney Bunting, shares stories of the Mansion with members of the Advisory Board.

School of Education Making Georgia Schools Better By B INKY STRICKLAND

ake Revel Wylly Pogue. She’s the community liaison for the John H. Lounsbury School of Education. Bring in schools ranging from pre-kindergarten to 12th-grade. It’s a recipe for promoting educational achievement. According to data collected by Pogue, Georgia College has interacted with nine counties and approximately 500 teachers, and the partnerships has resulted in direct contact with approximately 5,550 students in the middle Georgia area. “My role is to connect university resources with P-12 school and community educational needs,” explained Pogue. “I visit area schools and discuss their needs with administrators and faculty.” Working with the established offices on campus and soliciting help from other Revel Wylly Pogue sources, Pogue provides campus support for educational priorities and needs in the P-12 Night, and Family Arts and Literacy schools and community agencies. activities, among others. Additionally, she creates programs and Pogue was instrumental in estabfinds volunteers when a school or comlishing or helping with seven outreach munity partner expresses a need. programs for Georgia College students The benefits of the liaison program to provide community service linked to are numerous, Pogue said. Area preimproved educational attainment. kindergarten through 12th-grade stu“This gives our students real-world dents and their families have benefited experience and offers opportunities to from the university’s student and family become involved in community serparticipation and planning assistance vice,” she said. “When you introduce for International Days, Family Math students to community service, I

believe they will be better citizens in their own communities.” The liaison program has created programs in which Georgia College students offer homework tutoring to athletes at Baldwin High School, and to children in the Boys and Girls Club, Carrera Model Program, Community Action Team for Service, the Community Conservation Center and Vaughn Chapel, and the Early Learning Center After School Program. They are also involved in “Super Stars,” a comprehensive prevention program offered through the Georgia College GIVE Center for elementary-age at-risk children, and Georgia College CATS program, whose mission is to promote a passion for learning while having fun and increasing students’ awareness of their surroundings. “These learning community initiatives target reducing the drop-out rate of students and increasing global understandings of all,” she said. Additionally, Pogue was instrumental in helping to promote the works of the Academic Outreach programs on ecology and the Georgia Children’s Museum Educational Partnership opening. P-12 faculty members have participated in field trips to the campus to acquaint them with the university’s museums, programs, historical buildings, faculty and informational resources. ❖ For more information on the University K-12 Community Liaison Program, contact Revel Wylly Pogue, (478) 445-5404.

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School of Health Sciences Nursing programs receive re-accreditation

he GC&SU nursing program received official notification in early August of its re-accreditation by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Both the baccalaureate and master’s degree programs were granted eight years, the longest length of accreditation allowed by the commission. The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as the national accrediting body for all types of nursing education programs. The positive report was largely due to a good student body, excellent commitment on the part of the faculty and a supportive GC&SU administration and community, said Dr. Martha Colvin, interim director of the Professional Nursing Programs at GC&SU. “The faculty are committed to a strong curriculum that not only prepares students for current nursing practice but also prepares them to meet the future challenges of a professional nursing career and a changing health care system,” Colvin said. She also credits the leadership of Dr. Cheryl Kish, who served as the associate dean and director of the Professional Nursing Programs during the years preceding the visit by the accrediting commission. The formal visit by the accrediting commission team took place spring semester. Kish is now acting dean of the School of Health Sciences. The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission supports the interests of nursing education, nursing practice, and the public by the functions of accreditation.

Exercise Science programs grow The Exercise Science program continues to grow, especially with the prephysical therapy and pre-medicine students. Over the last five years, current research has focused on the beneficial effects of exercise and nutrition on obesity and cardiovascular disease. This trend towards healthy lifestyles has maintained a strong interest in the field of Exercise Science. The Student Personal Training program has allowed the students to gain valuable practical skills by designing, implementing, and conducting individualized exercise programs for current GC&SU students, faculty and staff.

Teacher Ed program nationally honored The Physical Education Teacher Education Program at GC&SU has been cited by the National Association for Sport and Physical Education as a Nationally Recognized Program. The process for obtaining the association’s approval is based on a program’s compliance with National Standards and includes an extensive review. Additionally, the program contributed to the efforts by the John H. Lounsbury School of Education to achieve National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education approval.

Georgia College & State University Connection • Summer 2005

School of Education student cohorts learn teamwork skills during activities conducted by Outdoor Education.

Outdoor Ed moving to Lake Laurel Outdoor education programs will be moving to the Lake Laurel Campus. Outdoor education faculty and students developed and implemented a program called “I Dreamed I Was a Leader” to 1,000 teenagers attending the National 4-H Congress in Atlanta in Nov. 2004. The props – 26 giant dream catchers designed by T. Grant Lewis and Jude Hirsch and built by the facilitation team – were used with great success. The GC&SU Outdoor Education Center rolled out several mission-related programs this summer. • “Discovery” enhances the first-year academic seminar by building connections between students and faculty through a half-day challenge course experience. • “Launch” provides a full-day group development experience for student cohorts. • Finally, leadership development is a core principle at GC&SU that the Outdoor Education Program will contribute to by offering a small group of motivated students the opportunity to be trained as challenge course facilitators. The Discovery and Launch programs were piloted in Fall 2004 with freshmen majoring in sociology, political science, and criminal justice as well as middle school education graduate and undergraduate cohort students. ❖

School of Liberal Arts and Sciences Bursting at the Seams By BARBARA MONNETT

he Mass This semester, one student has Communication traveled to London to do his program within the internship at Bright Department of Entertainment Network. We English, Speech, and now have six faculty members Journalism has experienced and over 200 majors.” consistent growth in the past The most visible products five years and is currently of the Mass Communication undergoing a review for program are The Colonnade, the departmental status, said Dr. student newspaper, and MBC 4 Mary Jean Land, coordinator News, the student-produced of the program. newscast that airs on Charter “We are already bursting Cable Channel 4. But students at the seams,” said Land. in the department also particiThe program has experipate in class projects that help enced consistent growth in campus offices and community the past five years. groups with public relations and “Two years ago, we realadvertising needs. And students ized that we needed to begin get critical “real-world” training managing the number of stuthrough semester-long dents accepted in order to practicum experiences and maintain our identity as a internships. small program,” she said. “So, One thing Land is particuwe instituted an application larly proud of is the Alumni and process in the fall of 2003 for Mass Communication listservs entry into the program.” that have been created to help Existing as only a prograduates and current students gram in the School of Liberal Mass Communication major Misha Tenenbaum produces graphics for a newscast. keep in touch. Arts and Sciences and not a “The listserv is a most ism majors graduated in the spring of separate department, the program had rewarding way for alumni to communi1985. In 1997 and 1998, the Bachelor of cate,” she said. “We announce marits limitations, primarily related to Science in Journalism was changed to “identity and autonomy,” Land said. riages, new jobs, promotions. Alumni the Bachelor of Arts in Mass “The faculty believe that becoming are willing to offer internships and job Communication to more directly reflect opportunities for current students.” a department will strengthen the Mass the liberal arts focus of the university, Communication Program throughout “Bursting at the seams” will likely the university, (and ultimately) the state Land said. The program now consists characterize the Mass Communication of 32 courses. and the nation.” program for years into the future as the “The quality of our program conThe Mass Communication faculty continue to offer an education tinues to increase,” said Land. “Students that stresses excellence in the classProgram began in 1984 with 13 courses are active in internships, service learnroom, close interaction with students, when the Board of Regents approved ing, research conferences, and in pursu- and a strong concentration on the liberthe program for a Bachelor of Science ing professional and university awards. al arts. ❖ in Journalism degree. The first journal-

Georgia College & State University Connection • Summer 2005

Faculty Profile

Jude Hirsch and graduate student Craig Hughes at the Okefenokee Swamp.

Georgia College & State University Connection â&#x20AC;˘ Summer 2005

F A C U L T Y

P R O F I L E

Life is an Adventure

As professor of outdoor education, Hirsch thrives on excitement and the community it offers

he aspects of beauty and community drew Professor Jude Hirsch to a life calling of outdoor education. “Growing up, I was always outside,” Hirsch said. “Whether in the water, underground in a cave, or hiking the trails, it was an adventure environment.” Originally from Toronto, Ontario, Hirsch’s extended family dots the coastline of “the great Canadian chilled lake” and this provided an opportunity for her to experience the full breadth of the great outdoors. Besides the beauty of the outdoors, Hirsch felt drawn to outdoor education because of the community she found. At 15, Hirsch worked at a nearby summer camp. “I experienced a real sense of community,” she said, “through the team interaction involved in paddling and climbing.” Her love for the outdoors and what it does experientially for the individual and groups of people led her to pursue a professorship at Acadia University in Nova Scotia. With a degree in food science, she explained with some timidity, her vision was of the relational and therapeutic aspects of outdoor education. The phone call came; she got the job. Over the next 19 years, Hirsch received both a master’s degree and a doctorate in experiential learning. She also helped build a premier program and became a respected voice in her field. As professor of outdoor education,

coordinator for Outdoor Education Programs, and director of the Georgia College Outdoor Education Center, Hirsch has continued to pull together a holistic concept of experiential learning. “Georgia College is highly thought of in the field,” she said. “We are one of four undergraduate programs and only one of three graduate programs that are accredited. Even more, we are one of only two that blend academics and service.” The task at Georgia College is to use paddling, a ropes course, or even a hike through the nearby national forest in order to teach - about patterns in river currents or teamwork or geological features. “One class I taught experienced the challenge course and then returned to write music to fit what they felt,” she said. This may be why more than 40 percent of Outdoor Education majors double major in biology, psychology, and other programs. Since Hirsch was a competitive swimmer as a teenager, it is not surprising that she returned to the pool as an analogy for experiential learning. “Imagine a swimming pool,” she explained. “Imagine the swimming pool represents experiential education. At the shallow end is social recreation. As you proceed to the deep end, you go from teaching curriculum to corporate interaction, and at the deepest point you are trying to change individuals by using experience as therapy.” Over her 28-year study of outdoor

By ZACH KINCAID

Hirsch waves from her lofty position on the ropes course among the tall pines. education and experiential learning, Jude Hirsch has expanded her work to include consulting with corporations on how group activity and wilderness adventure create not simply a more productive staff, but a more confident, cooperative, and caring office. Hirsch also works with drug and alcohol related problems with teenagers, using the outdoors as a therapeutic avenue. In the fall, Georgia College’s Outdoor Education facilities will move from West Campus and return to Lake Laurel, where the program started several decades ago. Jude Hirsch is married to Dr. Lee Gillis, professor of psychology at Georgia College. ❖

Georgia College & State University Connection • Summer 2005

Faculty Notes Dr. Gita Williams, an assistant professor of computer science, is co-author with Homayoun Valafar and Hamid R. Arabnia of a journal article titled “Distributed Global Optimization and its Development on the MultiRing Network,” that appeared in Neural, Parallel and Scientific Computations (Volume 12, Number 4, pp 465-490) in December. Dr. Jason P. Huffman, an assistant professor of mathematics, presented “Elements of Interest in a Jacobson Radical Ring” at the AMS/MAA Joint Mathematics meetings in January in Atlanta. The presentation represents some of his recent research in the area of ring theory. He also presented a paper “Preserving Properties in a Ring Extension” at the American Mathematical Society’s Southeast Sectional Meeting held March 18-19 at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, Ky. Dr. Laurie Battle, an assistant professor of mathematics, presented a poster at the American Mathematical Society/Mathematical Association of America Joint Mathematics Meetings in January in Atlanta. The poster, titled “Eigenvalue dependence on problem parameters for Stieltjes Sturm-Liouville problems,” was presented in a session sponsored by Project NExT and the Young Mathematician’s Network. She is also the author of an article titled “Solution dependence on problem parameters for initial-value problems associated with the Stieltjes Sturm-Liouville equations” in the Electronic Journal of Differential Equations (Vol. 2005 (2005), No. 02, pp. 1-18). Dr. Santiago García-Castañón, a professor of Spanish in the Department of Modern Foreign Languages, has published a critical and annotated edition of Francisco Bances Candamo’s Poesía selecta (Gijón: Llibros del Pexe, 2004). Candamo (1662-1704) was court dramatist to King Charles II of Spain, the only one in history appointed by royal decree. This is GarcíaCastañón,’s 10th book; his fifth at Georgia College. Dr. Roger Noël, chair and professor in the Department of Modern Foreign Languages, is co-author with Dr. Horace G. Danner of the University of Maryland University College of The English Tree of Roots, a reference guide to roots from Latin and Greek, and Discover It, a vocabulary building manual (Imprimis Books). These are his seventh and eighth books.

Dr. Ivan Ruiz-Ayala, assistant professor, Modern Foreign Languages, has had his first book of poetry, Final de Tiempo (End of Time), published by Hipocampo Editores of Lima, Peru. Written between 1986 and 1999, these poems deal with time, solitude and death in the surrealist tradition of the early 20th Century. Ruiz-Ayala is also the author of Poética Vanguardista Westphaleana (1997) and César Moro y La Tortuga Ecuestre (1998). Dr. Hank Edmondson, a professor in the Department of Government and Sociology, lectured in February at the University of Hull, England, and at the University of Glasgow, Scotland. Both lectures were on the title of his book Return to Good and Evil: Flannery O’Connor’s Response to Nihilism (Lexington Books). The book has just been published in paperback. Dr. Melanie DeVore, an associate professor in the department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, made the cover of one of the premier journals in botany, The American Journal of Botany. Dr. Hugh A. Sanders, assistant professor in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, presented “Free Near-Clones of Some Useful Software” at the 10th Annual Valdosta State University Mathematical Technology Conference held Feb. 25 in Valdosta, Ga. In addition, he made a presentation titled “Fundamentally Different Software Models for Predator-Prey Problems” at the Annual Southeastern Section Meeting of the Mathematical Association of America held March 11 at Meredith College in Raleigh, N.C. Beate Czogalla, assistant professor of theatre in the Department of Music and Theatre, took the Georgia College International Club on a trip to Kennedy Space Center. The activity was named a Significant Event by the Solar Systems Ambassadors Program at Jet Propulsion Laboratory/ NASA. This is the third time Czogalla has received this honor in the past 18 months. Dr. Craig Smith, chair and professor in the Department of Special Education and Administration, has been reappointed by Gov. Sonny Perdue to another term on the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. Smith serves as chair of the Educator Preparation Committee and has been selected as one of only three members of the Executive Committee.

Georgia College & State University Connection • Summer 2005

Dr. Eustace Palmer, a professor of English and coordinator of Africana Studies, was elected vice president of the African Literature Association at its recent annual meeting at Boulder, Colo. The association, formerly the African Literature Association of America, is now the World Association with membership from the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, Europe, Africa and Asia. Dr. Laurie Edler, an assistant professor of mathematics in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, presented a paper titled “Path-Connected Group Extensions” at the Southeastern Sectional Meeting of the American Mathematical Society on March 19 in Bowling Green, Ky. Additionally, Edler served as a judge for the MAA Undergraduate Student Poster Session at the joint meetings in January of the American Mathematical Society and the Mathematical Association of America in Atlanta, Ga. Dr. Martha Allen, an assistant professor in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, presented “Turning the Selection of Cooperative Learning Groups into a Mathematical Exercise” at the Neat Teaching Ideas Session of the Project NExT-SE Workshop at the Mathematical Association of America’s Southeastern Sectional Meeting held March 11 at Meredith College in Raleigh, N.C. Allen also served as a panelist on “Navigating a Job Search: A Panel for Graduate Students” at the MAA Sectional Meeting. Additionally, she presented, along with Dr. Hugh Sanders, “A Progress Report on Assessing the Mathematics Degree Program at Georgia College & State University” at the MAA’s Professional Enhancement Workshop on Assessing the Undergraduate Program in Mathematics, held at Clayton College & State University in January. Douglas Keith, an assistant professor of music therapy, was the first true Ph.D. candidate in music therapy to graduate from the Boyer College of Music at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pa. The graduation ceremony took place on the Temple University Main Campus. Keith successfully defended his dissertation, titled “Understanding Music Improvisations: A Comparison of Methods of Meaning-Making,” in April 2005. The Ph.D. in Music Therapy, which was initiated in the Fall of 2000 at Temple University, is the first true Ph.D. degree program in Music Therapy within the United States.

Bobcat Sports Hip! Hip! Hurray! for the Georgia College cheerleaders!

he Georgia College cheerleading squad took second place at the National Cheerleading Association national championship competition April 11 in Daytona Beach, Fla. Georgia College was the national runner-up in the Division II Small Coed Division, finishing behind national champion Hawaii Pacific University. The second place finish marked the 10th straight year that the Bobcat cheerleaders have finished in the top six in the nation, including national championships in 1998, 1999 and 2001. It was also the second time in the last three years that Georgia College finished as the national runner-up after taking second place in 2003. Twenty teams qualified for the Division II Small Coed Competition. Hawaii Pacific finished first with a score of 9.05, followed by Georgia College with a score of 8.72. Central Oklahoma and Elmira College tied for third with a score of 8.38. Completing the top five was Blinn College from Texas with a 7.8. Nearly breaking into the top five was Valdosta State with a score of 7.78. Completing the top 10 were Minnesota State University-Mankato, Bridgewater State, Southern Maine, and Keene State. The competition was a two-day event with the 10 highest scoring teams from the preliminary round qualifying for the final round. Georgia College finished second to Hawaii Pacific in the preliminary round, and again in the final round. In the preliminary round Hawaii Pacific scored 9.15 and the Bobcats scored 8.62.

Miller tapped as new head softball coach After a nationwide search, we didn’t have to go very far to find the next Georgia College head softball coach. Ginger Miller, who served as interim head coach this spring, has been named the head coach. Miller will also serve as the senior women’s administrator for the athletics department. “I think Ginger is an excellent choice for us,” said Athletics Director Dr. Stan Aldridge. “She has already proven herself as a quality coach, and her philosophies are in line with what

we want to do as a university to recruit good student-athletes who can perform at a high level on the field and in the classroom.” Miller, who was the assistant coach in 2004, took the reigns of the Lady Bobcats program in January after Head Coach Windy Thees resigned to become the head coach at the University of Memphis. Georgia College was picked to finish seventh out of eleven teams in the Peach Belt Conference, but under Miller’s guidance the Lady Bobcats finished third in the league. They went 24-17 overall and 128 in PBC play, and one of only two PBC schools to defeat every other team in the league at least once during the 2005 season.

“I’m very excited,” Coach Miller said. “I think it will be a smooth transition for me and the girls since I was here in the spring. We only lost two seniors, so our goal is to win the conference and get back to nationals.” Prior to arriving at Georgia College, Miller was the assistant coach at Saint Andrews Presbyterian College in Laurinburg, S.C. from 2001-2003. She was named the Aflac Assistant Coach of the Year in 2003. Miller graduated from Francis Marion University in Florence, S.C., in 2001 with a degree in political science and was a four-year letterman for the Patriots, setting a school record for doubles as a senior while earning AllRegion honors.

Georgia College & State University Connection • Summer 2005

Tennis teams return to NCAA tournament It’s easy to get spoiled by success, and for that reason the Georgia College tennis teams don’t always get all of the accolades that they deserve. This spring the men’s and women’s tennis teams once again returned to the NCAA Division II Tournament. It marked the second straight year that Coach Steve Barsby has guided both Bobcat teams to the tennis version of the “Big Dance.” Barsby was named the Peach Belt Conference Men’s Tennis Coach of the Year in 2005 after guiding the Bobcats to an 18-7 overall record, and 6-2 mark in the powerful Peach Belt conference. GC&SU was tied for second place in the league behind co-Champions USC Upstate and Armstrong Atlantic State. It was the second time that Coach Barsby took home PBC Coach of the Year honors after being named the Women’s Coach of the Year in 2003. The 18 victories were the second most in a single season for the men’s program, and are the most wins recorded since the school’s athletics program moved up from the NAIA ranks to NCAA Division II in 1991. The win total is even more impressive when you consider that all nine of the league’s men’s tennis teams were ranked in the national poll heading into the final week of the season. Junior Neil Scantlebury and sophomore Rodrigo Yamauti earned AllConference honors for doubles, with

Scantlebury also earning All-PBC honors in singles. The 13th-ranked Bobcats traveled to Savannah for the 2005 NCAA MidAtlantic Regional on May 5-6. It was the second straight year, and the seventh time overall, that the Georgia College men earned an NCAA Tournament bid. The Bobcats got off to a good start in the tournament with a 5-3 victory over conference rival Francis Marion. The season came to an end in the Regional Championship with a 5-0 loss to fourthranked Armstrong Atlantic State. The women’s program also had an outstanding season playing the nation’s toughest conference. With seven Peach Belt schools ranked in the national poll heading into the final week of the season, there was never a day off. The Bobcats went 16-10 overall and finished fifth out of 11 teams in the Peach Belt Conference with a 6-4 league mark. They didn’t have the luxury of being a deep team in 2005 after an injury left the team with only six healthy players, the minimum needed to compete, for the entire season. Fortunately, all six could play at a high level. The Georgia College women also traveled to Savannah for the NCAA Mid-Atlantic Regional hosted by Armstrong Atlantic State. The Bobcats were making their 11th consecutive trip to the NCAA Tournament, the most by any Georgia College program. The

Georgia College & State University Connection • Summer 2005

team entered the tournament ranked 14th nationally and opened the tournament by upsetting 13th-ranked USC Upstate, a team that had defeated the Bobcats twice during the regular season, 5-3. The win propelled them to the NCAA Regional Championship match, but the Bobcats fell 6-0 to the eventual national champion Armstrong Atlantic State. Both tennis teams were able to uphold the program’s tradition as one of the finest in the country, and hopes are high for even more success next year. The women’s team, which finished the year ranked 13th nationally had only one senior on its roster in Chenelle Kruger, while the men’s team, ranked 15th in the final poll, did not have any seniors and look forward to what should be veteran leadership in 2006.

A duo earns end-of-year honors

First year baseball coach Chris Calciano guided Georgia College to a winning season, national rankings, and a near-return to the NCAA Tournament, but it was a couple of individuals who grabbed the biggest headlines for the Bobcats. Georgia College took two of the top honors in the Peach Beach Belt Conference as lefty Matt Goyen was named PBC Pitcher of the Year and shortstop Mike DeVeaux was named

B O B C A T

S P O R T S

PBC Player of the Year. It marked only the fourth time in PBC history that players from the same school took the top honors in the same year. Goyen, a red-shirt junior from Athens, is the first Georgia College player to win the PBC Pitcher of the Year award. He was also later honored as the NCAA South Atlantic Region Pitcher of the Year. He went 9-1 with one save and led the Peach Belt Conference with a 1.99 ERA and 122 strikeouts in 90.2 innings pitched. He also led the league by holding opposing hitters to a .185 batting average, and averaged more than 12 strikeouts per game and reached double digits in strikeouts eight times. He posted two shutouts along the way and was named the Peach Belt Conference Pitcher of the Week three times this season which was a school record. Goyen’s 122 strikeouts were seven shy of matching a school record and were the third most by a Georgia College pitcher in a single season. He ranks fourth on the schools all-time list with 260 career strikeouts. Goyen was a member of the Peach Belt Conference Presidential Honor Roll last year and was an Academic AllAmerican candidate with a 3.2 grade point average. DeVeaux, a junior from Statesboro, is the first Georgia College player since Chris Car in 2001 to earn Player of the Year honors. He later also earned First Team All-South Atlantic Region honors. He led the Bobcats, and ranked second in the conference, with a .414 batting average. Leading his team in almost every offensive category, he led the PBC with 92 hits, 67 RBI and 150 total bases. He was also second in the league with 13 home runs and a .676 slugging percentage. DeVeaux hit safely in 51 out of 53 games and opened the season with a school-record 31 game hitting streak.

Mike DeVeaux

Matt Goyen

He later added a 19 game hitting streak. By being named the Region Pitcher of the Year, Goyen is guaranteed a spot on the All-America Team, and DeVeaux is eligible for All-America consideration by virtue of his First Team All-Region selection. Georgia College went 33-20 overall and were ranked in the national poll all season long.

Bobcat golf returns to the national tournament

The Georgia College golf team backed up its reputation as one of the top programs in the country by making its eighth consecutive trip to the NCAA Regional Tournament and later advancing to the NCAA National Championships for the second straight season. Coach Jimmy Wilson’s Bobcats were one of four Peach Belt Conference schools to advance to the national championship tournament. Ranked as high as No. 5 during the regular season in the Precept/Golf Coaches Association of America national poll, the Bobcats had an outstanding spring season, finishing in the top three in four out of six regular season spring tournaments. Georgia College opened the spring by finishing third out of 15 teams at the Outback Intercollegiate in Panama City, Fla., followed by a second place finish out of 15 teams at the Matlock Invitational in Lakeland, Fla., and a third place finish out of 12 teams at the Pirate Invitational in Savannah. Georgia College took top

honors out of 15 teams in its own tournament held at Cuscowilla in Eatonton a couple of weeks later. The Bobcats opened the postseason by finishing fourth at the Peach Belt Conference Championships in Savannah. Seniors Carter Collins and John Tillery were named to the all-conference team, and rookie Juan Bialet was honored as the Peach Belt Conference Freshman of the Year. Collins, a senior from Claxton, Ga., earned all-conference honors for the second straight year. He earned a 74.36 stroke average during the regular season with seven top twenty finishes in ten tournaments played, including five top ten finishes. Tillery, a senior from Madison, Ga., led the Bobcats during the regular season with a 74.12 stroke average in ten tournaments. He had seven top 20 finishes, six top 10 finishes and two tournament victories. Bialet, from Buenos Aires, Argentina, is the first Georgia College golfer to take home PBC Freshman of the Year honors. He came to GC&SU in January and had an immediate impact, finishing third on the team with a 74.47 stroke average during the regular season, four top 20 finishes, and two top10 finishes. Georgia College traveled to Columbus for the NCAA Southeast Regional and finished third to qualify for the national tournament hosted by Armstrong Atlantic State in Savannah. The Bobcats would be making their fifth trip to the national championship tournament. After a season marked by consistent play, GC&SU struggled in the first two rounds at nationals which sunk the team to the bottom of the 20 team field, but the Bobcats were able to regain some of their true form in the last two rounds to finish 15th. ❖

Georgia College & State University Connection • Summer 2005

Advancement News Fall event to recognize scholarship donors and recipients

resident Dorothy Leland and the Office of University Advancement will host a reception on Sept. 23 to honor Georgia College & State University scholarship donors and recipients. The reception is planned for the University Banquet Room. In the past, endowed scholarship recipients and donors were recognized during Honors Day ceremonies in April. By separating this event from Honors Day, the luncheon will allow the university to individually recognize

providing Opportunities &fulfilling Dreams

each of the scholarship recipients and to personally extend our thanks to the donors who contribute to the education of GC&SU students. This event also will allow the donors to meet the recipients of the scholarship they established and learn about the impact their donation is making. “We have an immense pride in our students and are honored to provide an opportunity for benefactors to meet the students they support,” said Amy Nitsche, vice president for University

Advancement. This year, the Georgia College & State University Alumni Association and Foundation awarded over $375,000 in privately funded scholarships to GC&SU students. These donations were made possible by generous alumni and friends of the university. If you are interested in receiving more information about endowing a scholarship at GC&SU, contact Amy Nitsche at (478) 445-5400.

Ways you can support Georgia’s Public Liberal Arts University Each year gifts made to Georgia College & State University show pride in our university and the expectation of a bright future. No university can achieve the high level of excellence that we expect without the support of alumni and friends.

Giving Opportunities

Heritage Fund – The Heritage Fund supports many important endeavors at GC&SU such as student scholarships, faculty development, living-learning communities for students, library books and journals, and leadership programs. Each gift, no matter how small, makes a difference in the educational experience of GC&SU students. Exceptional Scholars Fund – This special fund provides scholarships to the university’s entering freshmen. These awards are reserved for the best and brightest students among each year’s incoming freshman class. Donations to the Exceptional

Scholars Fund help GC&SU compete with other universities in attracting exceptional students.

provide, in perpetuity, scholarships, support for a university school, department or program.

General Scholarship Fund – Across the campus there is a significant need to attract and retain students each year. This fund helps to meet that need by providing scholarships to those students who are either in need of this support or who, through their educational accomplishments, merit such support.

Ways of Giving

Endowed Funds – Named endowed funds provide an opportunity to commemorate a donor’s particular area of interest. The Foundation has a variety of gift opportunities to allow donors to support a program of the university, provide scholarships for students or to support special initiatives. Endowed funds are established with a minimum gift of $10,000 from one or more donors. The principal is invested and a portion of the earnings

Georgia College & State University Connection • Summer 2005

There are many ways you can make a gift to support GC&SU. Listed below are a few examples. Please call the Office of University Advancement for more information, (478) 445-5400. Cash – outright gifts made by check or through your credit card. Matching Gifts – double or even triple the value of your gift through a matching gift from your employer. Securities – giving appreciated securities offers added tax benefits. Planned Gifts – made as part of your overall financial and estate plan that may provide several tax advantages. Through planned giving, you can often make a larger gift than you may have thought possible.

Foundation Awards The annual Faculty Excellence Awards were presented during Honors Day on Friday, April 22. The awards, sponsored and funded by the GC&SU Foundation, honor faculty members for the significant role they play in the education of GC&SUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s students. Distinguished Professor Dr. Everett Barman, professor of biology, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, is the 2005 Distinguished Professor. Barman has been a member of the faculty since 1973. During his long and distinguished career, he has demonstrated his passion for engaged scholarship through his teaching and research. He has shared this enthusiasm with many students over many years, engaging them in student/faculty research. In fact, he has maintained the most productive student-faculty research program in the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences for more than 20 years. He has accumulated an impressive record of publication and presentation, almost all of it with significant student involvement and coauthorship. Dr. Barman has a total of 76 published papers and abstracts in ecology and morphology, systematics, and life history. Barman stands as a powerful role model for his colleagues as well as his students. His leadership in the Georgia Academy of Science was recognized by the academy in 2002 when they honored him with the designation Fellow of the Georgia Academy of Science. Barman is a powerful example of a masterful classroom teacher, a research mentor and collaborator, and colleague. After 32 years of service to GC&SU, Barman will retire this year. The Distinguished Professor Award is presented to a member of the faculty nominated by other faculty members, students, or supervisors and is based on the following criteria: achievement as a scholar and teacher, service to the institution and profession, achievement in teaching, scholarship and service, and evidence of impact and involvement with students. Dr. Everett Barman was the keynote speaker at the Honors Day Convocation.

Georgia College & State University Connection â&#x20AC;˘ Summer 2005

F O U N D A T I O N

Barkovskii

A W A R D S

Fair

Yang

Allen

Isaac

Muschell

Excellence in Research/Publications

Excellence in Teaching

Dr. Andreii L. Barkovskii, assistant professor of Microbiology, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences; Dr. John Fair, professor of history, Department of History and Geography; Dr. Jiaqin Yang, professor, Department of Management The Excellence in Research and Publication Awards are presented to selected faculty who have had the results of their scholarly efforts published. Published manuscripts are judged on scholarly merit, contribution to the field or discipline, and recognition brought to GC&SU.

Dr. Martha Allen, assistant professor, Department of Mathematics; Dr. Walter Isaac, associate professor, Department of Psychology; Mr. David Muschell, associate professor of English, Department of English, Speech and Journalism The Excellence in Teaching Awards are presented to members of the faculty who have been nominated by their peers, students, or supervisors. The award is given for excellence in classroom teaching, continued professional development, and contributions to the institutional objectives of GC&SU.

Excellence in Artistic Endeavor

Laurie Hendrickson McMillan Faculty Award

Karen McElmurray, assistant professor, Department of English, Speech and Journalism Entries for the Excellence in Artistic Endeavor Award include documentation of off-campus artistic activities produced, published, or performed during the previous calendar year. All entries must show evidence of off-campus professional or peer review.

Dr. Catherine Whelan, assistant professor, Department of Accounting The Laurie Hendrickson McMillan Faculty Award was endowed in 1994 by Dan F. McMillan, Robert W. McMillan, Alice McMillan Jackson and Michael D. McMillan to honor the memory of Laurie Hendrickson McMillan. The award is given annually to a non-tenured faculty member who has taught for at least one year and who has excelled in teaching, research, and community service. The award is made to a faculty member in the School of Business (from which Robert McMillan graduated) in odd-numbered years and to a faculty member in the School of Health Sciences (from which Alice McMillan Jackson graduated) in even-numbered years.

Irene Rose Community Service Award Dr. Richard N. Bialac, professor of information systems, Department of Information Systems and Communications The Irene Rose Community Service Award is presented to someone committed to service to the central Georgia community while employed at GC&SU. The recipient should show uniqueness of performance of service beyond normal expectation; development of a public service contract/grant that benefits the central Georgia community; exemplary service to support the function of the universitywide mission; leadership in one or more community service activities with a visible campus connection; and excellence in continuing education instruction or supervision.

McElmurray

Georgia College & State University Connection â&#x20AC;˘ Summer 2005

Bialac

Whelan

Alumni News Crabtree named alumni director Chad M. Crabtree is the new director of alumni relations. He came to Georgia College in March from Indiana University South Bend, where he served as admissions recruiter and counselor since 2000, and gained a wealth of experience and a long list of achievements in the realm of alumni relations. “Chad will be a tremendous asset to our advancement team,” said Wendy Bibb, president of the Georgia College Alumni Association. “We are delighted to have someone with Chad’s experience and background representing our association.” Crabtree received his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 1998 from Indiana University South Bend. After graduating, he served as an intern in the South Bend office of U.S. Rep. Tim Roemer and as an Indiana State Senate intern.

He has been a member of the Indiana University Alumni Association since 1998 and a representative of Hoosiers for Higher Education within

that organization from 2002 to the present time. He served on the board of directors, as legislative chair and web site coordinator of the IU Alumni Club of Elkhart County from 2002 until the present time. In this capacity, his duties included setting and planning the annual budget and planning fund raisers, serving as advisor to the local county alumni group, and participating in a phonathon that won a University Membership Award. He is a member and former community development vice president of the Dunlap Junior Chamber of Commerce and was named one of the Top 10 Indiana Jaycees of 2001. He was awarded the Key to the City of Elkhart, June 1993, and is a Rotary Foundation Ambassador alumnus and visited the Philippines for 30 days on a good will ambassador tour. ❖

Save the Date! Mark your calendars now and plan to attend Alumni Weekend 2006.

April 21-23, 2006 Watch your mailbox early next year for more details! If you are interested in planning your class reunion, please contact the Alumni Relations office at (478) 445-5767. Georgia College & State University Connection • Summer 2005

Alumni Weekend Images from Alumni Weekend 2005

Georgia College & State University Connection â&#x20AC;˘ Summer 2005

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Advancement office relocates to downtown The Office of University Advancement has moved into new offices in downtown Milledgeville. The new offices are on the second floor of the Magnolia State Bank building at 100 E. Greene St. Phone numbers and e-mail addresses for employees have not changed. The main telephone number remains (478) 445-5400.

Georgia College & State University Connection â&#x20AC;˘ Summer 2005

Alumni Awards Outstanding alumni honored by association The Georgia College & State University Alumni Association presented its annual Alumni Awards in February. The recipients were honored at a dinner in the University Banquet Room.

President Dorothy Leland, left, and Dr. Helen Matthews Lewis

Genie Snyder, left, and Alumni Association President Wendy Bibb

Alumni Achievement Award

Alumni Service Award

Dr. Helen Matthews Lewis, Morganton, Ga., Class of

Genie Snyder, Athens, Ga., Class of 1982, bachelor of arts

1946, bachelor of arts in social science. The award is given to graduates who have excelled in a particular professional field, attained prominence and/or have made a positive effect in the state, region or nation. Lewis has enjoyed a long and influential career as a teacher and a writer, focusing on Appalachian issues. She is one of the central figures in the scholarly study of Appalachia, but she has also been instrumental in the movement to improve the living and working conditions of the region’s residents. Dr. Lewis’ scholarly work exemplifies the ideals of participatory research and popular education. In addition to earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from GSCW, she also received a Master of Arts degree from the University of Virginia, and a Ph.D. from the University of Kentucky.

in public administration. This award recognizes graduates who have rendered the greatest service in recent years to both the university and the Alumni Association. Snyder has remained active in the GC&SU Alumni Association for several years, and has recently completed a two-year term as association president. Under her leadership, the alumni association flourished and the success of many alumni events can be attributed to her vision as the association’s leader. In addition to earning a bachelor of arts degree from GC&SU, she also received her master’s and doctorate level degrees in education from the University of Georgia. Snyder is the owner of SnyderRemarks, Inc., a consulting firm based in Athens, Ga. She also serves on the GC&SU Foundation Board.

Georgia College & State University Connection • Summer 2005

Heritage Award Dorothy Pinkston, Birmingham, Ala., Class of 1951, bachelor of arts in physical education. The award is presented to an alumna who, in four or more decades of service, has demonstrated in her own life those ideals that best exemplify the traditions and heritage of the university. Pinkston retired from the University of Alabama at Birmingham where she served as a physical therapy professor. She also served as chair of the Curriculum Development Committee for physical therapy for many years. Because of her dedication to physical therapy education at UAB, alumni contributions led to the Bergman/Pinkston Endowed Professorship in Physical Therapy. This fund honors both Pinkston and her colleague Joan Bergman for their exemplary work in the field.

Ethel Rae Mozo-Stewart Community Service Award Alvalyn Pope, Perry, Ga., Class of 1958, bachelor arts in

Dr. Cheryl Kish, interim dean of the School of Health Sciences, left, and Edna Watts

Outstanding Recent Alumni Award Edna Watts, Kathleen, Ga., Class of 1998, master of science in nursing. The award is presented to alumni who have graduated within the last 10 years. It was established to honor notable achievement in a professional or business career, and promise for continued success. Watts is a family nurse practitioner for the Taylor Healthcare Network. She is the current president of the Central Georgia Chapter of the United Advanced Practice Registered Nurses of Georgia. She also is actively involved in promoting legislation to help improve healthcare delivery in rural Georgia. She is married to Jerry Watts and they have two children, Cheryl and Tracie.

social science. Graduates, associate and honorary alumni are eligible for this award. Established in memory of an alumna from the class of ’46, the award honors a spirit of volunteerism. Candidates are characterized by a history of exemplary service, not necessarily in leadership positions, that has resulted in visible improvements within his or her community. Pope is a retired educator from Houston County, where she taught for 21 years. Previously, she worked for the Griffin-Spalding Board of Education for 10 years. Since the 1970’s, Pope has volunteered her time to help those less fortunate. She helped organize the Loaves and Fishes of South Houston County as well as the Perry Volunteer Outreach. She currently volunteers with the American Cancer Society, Perry Hospital, Houston County Volunteer Medical Clinic, and many others. She has also been awarded the 13WMAZTV Straight from the Heart Award, Bell South Mobility of Middle Georgia’s Community Friends Award, and was a Joan Dorsett, left, and Alvalyn Pope nominee for the President’s Service Award. She is married to George Pope and they have one daughter, Stephanie. Georgia College & State University Connection • Summer 2005

Alumni Profiles Steve W. Batson Name: Steve W. Batson, ’74, master of education in biology; ’78 specialist in education in biology

Jason Miles Name: Jason Miles, ’96, bachelor of science, History Profession: Television reporter

Profession: Chief Development Officer, Camp Coca-Cola Foundation Educational background: Batson received his bachelor of arts degree in Biology and Psychology in 1970 from Mercer University in Macon, Ga., and his doctor of education in educational administration degree in 1994 from the University of Georgia. Professional background: Batson has held several senior administrative positions in higher education, including vice president for university relations and executive director of Georgia Southwestern Research Corp., vice president for planning and institutional advancement at West Virginia State College in Charleston, W. Va., assistant to the president and director of planning at Texas A&M University–Commerce, and assistant to the vice president for academic affairs and director of institutional research at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro. While he was at Georgia Southwestern University, the first-ever major gift campaign was initiated and that institution is currently nearing the successful conclusion of a $12-million campaign, chaired by President and Mrs. Jimmy Carter. In his current position, Batson and his staff are responsible for raising $12 million endowment funds for each camp they create and a $50 million national campaign for future development of camps. He received the Georgia Education Advancement Council’s 2002 Distinguished Service Award for Educational Fundraising. He is also the recipient of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education’s Gold Awards for radio public service announcements and commercials. He is also a recipient of the GC&SU Outstanding Young Alumni Award. Personal data: Batson, a native of Macon, is married to Kathleen L. Batson. They have two children, Meredith, 33, and James, 27. He enjoys boating, coastal navigation, reading, and relaxing on St. Simons Island. Reflections: Batson said that, although he was a commuting graduate student working on two degrees at Georgia College, he enjoyed the programs, the small campus, and the personal attention received from faculty and administrators. 44

Georgia College & State University Connection • Summer 2005

At Georgia College: Miles, a native of Metter, Ga., was an active member of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity and was a member of the Student Government Association. While going to college, he worked as a disc jockey at WLRR radio in Milledgeville. Professional background: Miles’ first job was with Atlanta-area radio, then he moved into television broadcasting. He has already made his mark in the broadcast news profession, winning a Georgia Association of Broadcasters Award while in radio, and Associated Press Awards for his work in television. While working at WRBL-TV, the CBS affiliate in Columbus, Ga., he won AP awards for “Best Reporter” in Alabama and “Best Series.” At WHNT-TV, the CBS affiliate in Huntsville, Ala., he won another AP Award for “Best Spot News” story involving a shooting rampage there. He moved to Memphis in October of 2004, where he is a reporter/anchor for WMC-TV, the NBC affiliate and long-time news leader in Memphis. Affiliations: Staying true to his history major, Miles has been active in historical societies and said he has been able to occasionally translate that interest into his news stories. In fact, he was recognized by the Alabama Historical Society for preservation-related reporting. “However, on a day-to-day basis, I’m covering courts, crime, politics, and whatever else comes my way,” he said. “I’m most proud of my coverage of several civil rights era trials. Those include the cases of two former Klansmen tried in recent years for the 1963 bombing of a Birmingham church.” Miles was in Philadelphia, Miss., in June for the trial of Edgar Ray Killen, who was recently indicted for his alleged part in the killings of three Civil Rights workers in 1964. Reflections: Miles said he attributes much of his interest in broadcasting to Dr. Connie Book, who taught broadcast journalism while he was at Georgia College. On a personal note: “I’m the last remaining ‘single guy’ among my college friends,” he said.

Class Notes and In Memoriam Do you have something to brag about? Submit it to the Office of Alumni Relations to be included in the next issue. While you are at it, update your address and personal information. Remember, we don’t know you’ve moved unless you tell us. Update your record online at www.gcsu.edu/alumni. You can also send it through regular mail to the Office of Alumni Relations, Campus Box 96, Milledgeville, GA 31061, or call us at (478) 445-5767.

1920s Emma Kate Hilliard Willis, Class of 1925, celebrated her 100th birthday on Aug. 9.

1930s Frances Manning Achurch McWhorter, Class of 1938, recently published her first book, Andando.

1950s Miriam Dunson, Class of 1952, retired from her position as associate for older adult ministries on the national staff of the Presbyterian Church. She continues to travel, speak, preach, and lead workshops and training events.

1970s Brenda Armstrong Clifton, Class of 1971, participated as a Fulbright Memorial Fund Teacher and spent three weeks in Japan. She has recently completed and received her certification from the Fulbright program. Jim Miller, Class of 1974 and 1989, announces the birth of his grandson, Robert Owen Carter, born on Jan. 26, 2005.

1980s Renee Webb Dove, Class of 1985, was chosen as the Elbert County Teacher of the Year for 2004-2005. She is currently teaching fourth grade at Blackwell Elementary School. She resides in Elberton with her husband, John, and their two children, Janna and Jackson.

Tammy Neal Crutchfield, Class of 1987 and 1990, was honored with the Vulcan Award for Teaching Excellence. The Southeast Division of the Vulcan Materials Company selected Crutchfield among other Mercer University faculty for her outstanding contributions to undergraduate education, student learning and campus life. Crutchfield serves as the director of undergraduate studies. Dianne Cook Lyon, Class of 1988, was listed in Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers for 2003-2004 and has been nominated again for 2004-2005. Lauren Leach, Class of 1989, is working as a police reporter for the Columbia, S.C. newspaper, The State.

1990s Angie Gheesling, Class of 1990, was hired as the executive director of the Development Authority of the City of Milledgeville and Baldwin County. Lori Hodges, Class of 1990 and 1992, married Robert Williams on Oct. 23, 2004. She is employed by Glaxo-Smith Kline Pharmaceutical Company in Research Triangle Park, N.C. Bryan Weil, Class of 1990, accepted a position as a staff nurse for the Eastern Correctional Institute in Maury, N.C.. Jeff Hall, Class of 1991 and 1995, is a high school assistant principal in Gwinnett County, Ga.

Thomas Kell Carpenter, Class of 1993, and Melena Courson Carpenter, Class of 1989 and 1991, announce the birth of their daughter, Kelsey Marie Carpenter, on April 26, 2004. Mark Greene, Class of 1993, and Joanna Short Greene, Class of 1994, welcomed a son, Eli Jackson, on Jan. 29, 2004. He joins his sister, Madeline, who is five years old. Mark completed his Master’s in Christian Education at New Orleans Theological Baptist Seminary and serves as minister of pastoral care at Westside Baptist Church in Ft. Pierce, Fla. Joanna earned a Master’s in Psychology from Palm Beach Atlantic University. Erica Freitag, Class of 1994 and 2004, married Paul Cargile on May 22, 2004, and the couple are now expecting a baby boy in July 2005. Ana Rodriguez Horton, Class of 1994, and her husband, Kenny, welcomed the arrival of a son, Chandler Luis, on Aug. 20, 2004. Chandler was welcomed home by big sister, Isabella Maria, who is two. Jeff Doke, Class of 1997, and wife, Jenifer, announce the birth of their daughter, Margaret Emmaline. Emma was born March 22, 2005, in Macon, Ga. The Doke family will soon be relocating to their hometown of Brunswick to be closer to family. Jeff would love to hear from any old classmates or “lost” Pi Kapps at jwdoke@gmail.com.

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Crystal Perry Beelner, Class of 1998, and husband, Aaron, adopted Victoria Mae Beelner from Ivanovo, Russia. Victoria was born on April 26, 2001.

Leeja Burckes Maness, Class of 2002, and husband, John, welcomed their first daughter, Caiden Ember, into the world on Dec. 30, 2004.

Tonya Lester McClure, Class of 1998, announces the birth of Lawson Reed, born on May 26.

Andrea Smith, Class of 2002, accepted a position as the communication coordinator for Snowshoe Mountain Resort in West Virginia.

Kathryn Simmons, Class of 1998, accepted a position as investigative/special projects reporter for WBBH in Fort Myers, Fla. Julie Harrell, Class of 1999, married William Boucek in Dunwoody, Ga., on Feb. 26, 2005. The couple lives in Hampton, Va. Reginald Mills, Class of 1999, accepted a position with Turner Broadcasting, working in the Network Operations Center.

2000s Brandice Bailey, Class of 2000, has been hired as the morning show producer for KVBC in Las Vegas, Nev. It is the number one station in its market. Jennifer Cope, Class of 2001, recently was named president of the Milledgeville Junior Woman’s Club in Milledgeville, Ga. Chris Ashley, Class of 2002, is the weeknight sports anchor/ sports director for WMBB TV-13 in Panama City, Fla.

Kevin Evans, Class of 2003, and Kim Willman, Class of 2003, were married on Feb. 28, 2004. Kim accepted a position as marketing coordinator for a real estate agency in Savannah, Ga., where the couple currently resides. Erin Semple, Class of 2003, is now assistant editor for Primedia Business Magazines and Media. Jessica Chambers, Class of 2004, married J. B. Dial on Nov. 20, 2004. Julie Kane, Class of 2004, recently accepted a position with Waffle House as human resource specialist for the South Atlanta Division. Ashlei Mills, Class of 2004, accepted a position at East Georgia College as an admissions recruiter. Jessica Perkinson, Class of 2004, married Josh Dillard on Mar. 17, 2005. She is now the Coca-Cola account manager for AdProps, Inc. Hollie Nunnelly, Class of 2005, married Alan Singleton on May 21, 2005. The couple lives in Milledgeville.

Ivan Bracic, Class of 2002, is working with Pitney Bowes, Inc. near Boston, Mass.

Georgia College & State University Connection • Summer 2005

In Memoriam 1930s Frances Cowan Robertson, Class of 1930, died Dec. 4, 2004. She taught elementary school in Alvaton, Ga., and Social Circle, Ga. LeClaire Wimberly Clayton, Class of 1932 and 1934, died Jan. 9, 2005. Virginia Peacock Dorroh, Class of 1933 and 1955, died Jan. 5, 2003. After graduation, she taught home economics at Miller High School in Macon, Ga. Rosamond Hanson, Class of 1933, died March 24, 2005. Evolyn Little Jones, Class of 1933, of Carrollton, Ga., died Feb. 18, 2005. She retired from the Fulton County School System in 1972. Velma Williams Wohlford, Class of 1933 and 1942, died April 4, 2003. Lillian Jordan Adair, Class of 1935, of Fernley, Nev., died March 12, 2004. She helped run her family’s business, Jordan’s Furniture. Virginia Henderson Yates, Class of 1936, died Sept. 6, 2004. Eloise Wilson Childs, Class of 1937, of Decatur, Ga., died Jan. 24, 2004.

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Mildred Witherington Malaier, Class of 1937, of Pineview, Ga., died Feb. 21, 2005. She was a retired public school teacher, having taught in Gainesville, Ga., and in Wilcox and Pulaksi counties.

trar at Georgia College and was the legal secretary for her husband, the late Jesse Alvin Gilmore.

Edna Earle Pafford, Class of 1938, died Dec. 17, 2004.

Dorothy Mainor Byers, Class of 1947, died April 24, 2004.

Mary Mills Reynolds, Class of 1939 and 1944, died June 16, 2003.

Elinor Dozier Hall Gibson, Class of 1947, died Feb. 28, 2005.

1940s

Janelle Robinson Seckinger, Class of 1948, of Springfield, Ga., died Nov. 14, 2004.

Linda Washburn Wharam, Class of 1978 and 1989, of Macon, Ga., died April 13, 2005. She was a teacher for 35 years.

1950s

1980s

Ovilla Willis, Class of 1950, died Aug. 14, 2003.

Robert Hawthorne, Sr., Class of 1984 and 1992, died Nov. 20, 2004.

Peggy Anne Von Pippin, Class of 1956, of Abingdon, Va., died April 26, 2005. She was retired from the Newport News, Va., school system.

Jeannette Kiefer, Class of 1989, of Warner Robins, Ga., died Nov. 30, 2004. She was employed by Jorge Scientific as a financial analyst.

1960s

1990s

Nan Brimberry Daniels, Class of 1960, died Dec. 31, 2004.

Ginger Rogers Ivey, Class of 1994 and 1996, of Toomsboro, Ga., died May 16, 2005. She was a former teacher at Danville Elementary School.

Sara Baskin Bowers, Class of 1941, of Sparta, Ga., died March 21, 2005. She taught school in Hancock County for 32 years. Florene Brinson Smith, Class of 1941, died Dec. 19, 2004. Lena Bowers Perry, Class of 1942, of Evanston, Ill., died Feb. 18, 2005. Carolyn Elizabeth Horne, Class of 1943 and 1964, of Milledgeville, died Jan. 21, 2005. She taught chemistry at Baldwin High School for 32 years before retiring and also served on the GC&SU Alumni Board of Directors. Faye Hancock Messick, Class of 1944, died Aug. 3, 2003. Barbara Burch Statham, Class of 1945 and 1948, died March 27, 2004. Lynette Eason Horne, Class of 1944 and 1946, died April 5, 2005. Ikella Odom Gilmore, Class of 1946, of Milledgeville, died Jan. 14, 2005. She worked as an assistant to the regis-

Jeannette McCoy Lewis, Class of 1946, died April 19, 2004.

Francenia Morris Yarbrough, Class of 1961, died Feb. 10, 2005. Minnie McCord Collier, Class of 1963, of Macon, Ga., died April 11, 2005. She was retired from Johnson County Board of Education. Dorothy Lee Cox, Class of 1964, of Lincolnton, N.C., died Nov. 24, 2004. She was a retired public school teacher in the Bibb County School System.

Nadine Walker Peterson, Class of 1968, died May 26, 2004. Doris Grayson Wellborn, Class of 1969 and 1976, of Macon, Ga., died Dec. 12, 2004. She taught science at Appling Junior High and biology at Southeast High School until her retirement in 1991.

1970s

2000s Venkata Praveen Badiga, Class of 2002, of Atlanta, died May 1, 2005. Ronald Heath, Class of 2003, died Nov. 18, 2004. Kevin Johnson, Class of 2003, died March 23, 2005.

Georgia College & State University Connection â&#x20AC;˘ Summer 2005

Celebrate the Opening The ribbon-cutting and grand opening of the GC&SU Library and Information Technology Center will be Tuesday, Oct. 4, at 11 a.m. at the Clarke Street entrance to the building. Everyone is invited to attend. Non Profit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Permit No. 73 Milledgeville, Georgia

University Advancement Campus Box 96 Milledgeville, Georgia 31061 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

Georgia College & State University, established in 1889, is Georgiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Public Liberal Arts University. University System of Georgia.