A lum ni Magazine
M AGAZ IN E
If you haven’t seen ASU lately, you haven’t seen ASU!
NH O I TEARC I D E, RESPACT L ASHIPSTY IM I C E R UNI E P N S RT MM PA & CO
CONTENTS FEATURES: Editor Dr. John F. Knight Jr.
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Cover Story: If you haven’t seen ASU lately, you haven’t seen ASU!
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An Eye-Opening Experience
You Need to “See” Alabama State University
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Community Partnerships
ASU’s Tradition of Community Outreach
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Cutting-edge Research
Answering Tomorrow’s Questions Today
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Results-based Training
Training Leaders of Today and Tomorrow
Staff Writers Timothy C. Ervin Tina Joly
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Small Business Collaborations
ASU’s Big Impact on Small Businesses
Contributing Writers Deonshay Danson May Donnell Michael Sibley
20 Alumni/Community Connections
Managing Editor Danielle M. Kennedy University Editor Lois G. Russell Copy Editors Dana Vandiver Katrina Williams Editorial Consultants Kandis Daramola Zillah Fluker Tyrus B. Sturgis
Photographers David Campbell Te’Darius Lewis Layout and Design Haley Cumbie McQuick Printing Editions of ASU Today are available at www.alasu.edu/asutoday. To subscribe for weekly updates, visit www.alasu.edu and click on the link “Sign up for our email newsletter.” ASU Today Magazine is published by the Office of University Publications. Items should be mailed to the attention of ASU Today Magazine, Office of University Publications, Alabama State University, P.O. Box 271, Montgomery, AL 36101–0271. ASU is committed to preserving our earth. If you already have a copy of this magazine, please share this one with a friend or recycle it. Return the duplicate address labels to us so that we may clean up our mailing lists, keep costs low and be environmentally friendly. Thank You.
Serving, Leading, Growing the Community
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10 Reasons to Take a Closer Look at ASU!
FROM THE EDITOR
John F. Knight Jr.
Chances are, if you’ve watched television over the past two months, you’ve seen ASU’s new marketing campaign, “If you haven’t seen ASU lately, you haven’t seen ASU!” That tagline is the basis for this special publication of ASU Today. If you’ve driven past ASU — from I-85 to Carter Hill Road to Decatur Street or on the campus itself — you have seen the tangible, physical proof of our transformation. New athletic, academic and student facilities have been erected and existing buildings have been renovated. That’s the part of ASU’s transformation that’s easily seen. In the pages of this magazine, we wanted to share some of the changes that may not be as widely known, but are as important to the transformation of ASU as any building. This University has made great strides toward fulfilling its Vision 2020 mission to transform its physical and academic landscapes. We are so proud of our accomplishments; and given that ASU is such a vital part of Montgomery and the River Region, we want you to be proud, too. After all, when we succeed, you succeed. I must say, we could not have achieved all that we have without committed partners. ASU has a longstanding tradition of partnering with community service agencies and with local businesses. Those partnerships continue to be beneficial to those who work and live in the River Region and to ASU. We look forward to developing new relationships, as we all work together to make dreams a reality.
John F. Knight Jr.
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If you haven’t seen ASU lately, you haven’t seen ASU! The biomechanics laboratory is just one of the treasures waiting to be discovered at Alabama State University. Our University's physical growth is difficult to ignore. Whether traveling to work or school each day, you are bound to see some of the magnificent structures that now grace our campus. But there is so much more to "see" about ASU.
About the photos: Brian Hicks, a veteran of the Iraq War, is a member of the United States Paralympic team. He’s shown riding a bicycle in ASU’s new biomechanics laboratory, as Dr. Lee Childers, assistant professor of Prosthetics and Orthotics, monitors his movements. Students in the Prosthetics and Orthotics program are working on a new socket design for his cycling prosthesis.
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If you haven't seen ASU lately, you haven't seen ASU!
Amerpasha Javid (far right), a representative of the Quanser company, flies a radio-controlled helicopter in Alabama State University’s new Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (drone) lab, as (from left) lab manager Gerrand Crosby; Dr. Rajendran Swamidurai, professor of computer science; Dr. Chunhua Feng, assistant professor of mathematics; Dr. Cajetan Akujuobi, dean of the College of Science, Mathematics and Technology; and Dr. Xiolin Li, professor of computer science, observe the demonstration.
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An Eye-Opening Experience For many who are familiar with Alabama State University, setting foot on campus is an eye-opening experience to say the least. “Oh my goodness!” exclaimed one alumna, her ASU school days long past. “It’s beautiful.” With similar reactions being the norm, the most recent University marketing campaign tagline, “If you haven’t seen ASU lately, you haven’t seen ASU,” is quite fitting. One must note, however, that the tagline extends far beyond ASU’s physical growth and expansion. Television and web commercials highlight some of the things that are so great to “see” at Alabama State University. From the high-demand professional program in Prosthetics and Orthotics — one of only 13 in the country and the only program of its kind in Alabama — to the University’s nanobiotechnology research that has earned patents and millions in national grant funding, to the career opportunities offered in the forensic sciences, there is much to see and be proud of at ASU. To truly see ASU, you must first see its vision. You must first be familiar with the thoughtful deliberation that is
the framework for what you see today. It then becomes clear that what you are seeing is planned, purposeful and real. It is not an apparition. It is not fleeting, but is the manifestation of something destined to endure. In business, the ability to conceive a vision and develop a plan to execute that vision is tantamount to leadership. In 2008, when Dr. William H. Harris returned to ASU, an ambitious plan known as Vision 2020 was launched to transform ASU into a leading, global institution. Over the past five years, most of that vision has become a reality well ahead of schedule. In the 2012 President’s Report, Harris said, “There is no doubt that we have a big vision, but we also have a bigger impact.” For Montgomery, the River Region and the state of Alabama, that impact, in economic terms, is estimated at nearly $1 billion. That’s a gigantic number, but ASU’s impact is best demonstrated not by nameless, faceless numbers, but through the stories of the people who breathe life into these numbers, into our community, into our existence. Many drive by the campus every
day, in awe of the physical changes and sometimes unaware of programmatic transformations. Our goal is to help you to really see ASU and to celebrate with us as we evolve for the betterment of our students, our staff and faculty, as well as for our surrounding communities. In this special edition of ASU Today, we will share some of the stories of ASU’s impact in four areas: Community Partnerships, Cuttingedge Research, Results-based Training, Small Business Collaborations and Alumni/Community Connections. It is difficult to capture the fullness of what there is to “see” at ASU in a few pages. Chances are, you already have “seen” ASU lately. Our students may have patronized your business, our graduates may be part of your workforce, our staff may volunteer at your favorite charity or Hornets may be part of your church family, your child’s classroom, or your child’s little league team. But there is still so much more! If you haven’t seen ASU lately, then come visit us. In the meantime, take a few minutes to peruse the pages of this special edition of ASU Today and see some of what you’ve been missing. n
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If you haven't seen ASU lately, you haven't seen ASU!
Community Partnerships Alabama State University is proud to be a part of the community that has become known as the River Region. Community service and engagement are two of the key principle of the University’s Vision 2020 Transformation Plan. ASU has a long-standing tradition of community outreach. That tradition continues today through a number of student, faculty and alumni-led, service-focused initiatives.
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ASPIRE
ASPIRE (Amazing Students Putting in Resilient Effort) is the University’s community partnership effort that focuses on encouraging students to stay in school. Most of ASPIRE’s volunteers are ASU students who work with high school and middle school students as tutors and mentors. “ASPIRE’s mission is to make a difference in the lives of the youth we tutor and mentor each week,” said Cynthia Handy, director of ASU’s ASPIRE program. “By helping them set goals and complete assignments,
by providing tutoring with subjects with which they have struggled and by offering mentoring on topics like bullying and self-esteem, we believe that students will be encouraged to stay in school and become productive citizens in the community.” More than 100 ASU students work with Handy, providing after-school programs, as well as weekend leadership workshops and summer educational camps. “I joined ASPIRE because I love helping my community, especially the youth,” said ASU student volunteer, Mary Kay Bacon. “Programs like ASPIRE helped me stay in school, and I hope to do the same with the next generation.” ASPIRE partners with the Montgomery Public Schools System and other local schools in their dropout prevention efforts. The program now serves schools all over Montgomery as well as Prattville and has worked with nearly 600 students since the program began three years ago.
Students from Camp Eagle tour the Alabama State Capitol Building on July 12, 2012.
“Our goal is to help motivate children to become lifelong, successful readers,” said Kenneth Waters, coordinator of Marketing and Communications at ASU. “This event has become a really popular part of our Founders’ Week calendar.” Each year, ASU faculty, staff and students visit local schools and spend
overwhelming sense of reciprocity because the children give to us as much as we give to them. This, I believe is the most rewarding aspect of Read and Rise,” said Dr. Angela Davis, faculty coordinator for Read and Rise. This year, Interim President William H. Harris read to students at Latasha Johnson’s first grade class at Highland Avenue Elementary. “When ASU comes out to read to our students, they know it’s something exciting and they know it’s something important,” said Johnson, who is an alumna of ASU. “It is very important for them to develop a love for reading. Reading is important in every subject — math, science, social studies — so, they need to learn how to read first.” Since its inception, Read and Rise has partnered with 40 local public and private schools.
Camp Eagle
Read and Rise
In 2010, ASU began an annual effort to promote the benefits of reading in Montgomery’s public and private elementary schools.
time reading to students. “While many of the faculty view this as an opportunity to give back to our educational community, oftentimes we come away experiencing an
The University sponsors a number of summer camps for area youth each year. One of those, Camp Eagle, is an academic enrichment, character development and entrepreneurial camp. Camp Eagle is part of a longstanding ASU tradition of providing outreach services to the people of Alabama’s Black Belt. Continued to page 8
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If you haven't seen ASU lately, you haven't seen ASU!
Community Partnerships Continued from page 7 Camp experiences have included opportunities for students from ten Alabama counties to spend a week living in ASU dormitories, attending classes and getting real-life college experience. Campers also have had the opportunity to travel to places like the Allen Institute in Atlanta where they learned about entrepreneurship and networking.
Camp G.I.F.T.E.D.
If you asked Dameyune Smith about one of his favorite summer experiences, ASU’s Camp G.I.F.T.E.D. would rank high on his list. Smith was part of the first class of campers to benefit from the unique program, which is sponsored by the ASU Theatre Department. Camp G.I.F.T.E.D. (Giving Individuals Freedom to Express Diversity) is a performance camp for people with physical and learning disabilities. “I never thought in a million years that I would get to be on a stage,” said
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Smith, who was 17 at the time that he participated in the camp. “For the first time in my life, I was really happy. It was amazing.” The camp is designed for young people ages 1321 to receive professional instruction in acting, singing and dancing. The camp is held in collaboration with the Alabama Department of Rehabilitative Services, the Alabama Council on Disabilities, the Montgomery Public Schools System and ASU’s Physical Education, Physical Therapy, Education Technology, Music and Theatre Arts departments. The camp is only three years old, but it has already impacted dozens of lives. Cashimawo Akpiri also was a part of the first Camp G.I.F.T.E.D. session. “People tell us that we can’t sing, dance or act because of our disabilities. This camp is the opposite and tells us that we can.”
Academic Olympics
For the past 14 years, ASU’s Center for Leadership and Public Policy has sponsored an event that places some of Alabama’s brightest young minds and future innovators into competition for top awards. The 2013 High School Math and Computing Olympiad drew students Continued to page 19
Cutting-Edge Research As part of its much-heralded Vision 2020 Transformation Plan, Alabama State University has placed an increased emphasis on the goal of becoming a center for research on a number of academic levels. This goal is already being realized in several colleges and Centers for Excellence across the University. Professors and students are working side-by-side, conducting research in areas such as nanobiotechnology and forensic science. Their work is already gaining them and the University national recognition.
NanoBiotechnology Research
Dr. Shree Singh came to Alabama State University with a goal of helping the University fulfill its vision of becoming a world-class center of research. Singh is the director of ASU’s Center for NanoBiotechnology Research (CNBR) and a professor of microbiology. Since the Center’s establishment in 2007, Singh has nurtured its growth from a vision into a reality that is helping to train students in the emerging areas of nanotechnology and nanobiotechnology research. “One of the most exciting components of the CNBR is that it
continues to provide research training to students starting from high school all the way to Ph.D. students. CNBR trained and graduated the first cohort of Ph.D. in microbiology students in 2011, making history by producing the first Ph.Ds. at ASU,” Singh said. CNBR has gained national exposure and earned the respect of prestigious entities such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Science Foundation (NSF). The two organizations offer highly competitive grants to colleges and universities. CNBR has been awarded several multimillion dollar grants over the years because of its research. The latest five-year NSF grant of nearly $5 million came in September of 2013.
“With the new $5 million funding from the NSF, the CNBR at ASU moves its research to a very new field of nanogenomics and will provide training to many students and scientists in this field. Also, this research area has a huge potential in developing innovative materials that can be used for diagnosis and treatment of human diseases,” Singh said. “The next five years of funding will focus on research in developing novel nanomaterials that can be used to treat viral and bacterial diseases, as well as therapeutics that can enhance diseasefighting immune responses. The new field of research places ASU among few universities around the world to have these research capabilities.” Continued to page 10 9
If you haven't seen ASU lately, you haven't seen ASU! Shayla’s Success
Shayla Duncan is a shining example of the caliber of students who are part of the University’s research efforts. Duncan came to ASU in 2011, the recipient of a Presidential Scholarship. A dedicated student, Duncan immediately immersed herself in the research being done in the College of Science, Mathematics and Technology. During her freshman year, she earned national attention for her research with Dr. Peter Noble, associate professor of microbiology, and in 2013 received an award from the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) Undergraduate Research Capstone Program for her research poster titled “The Putative Role of Phytoplankton – Hydrocarbon-utilizing Microbial Interactions in Biodegradation of Deepwater Horizon Oil in Gulf of Mexico Surface Waters.” “It’s an honor to receive the award, and I’m grateful for the opportunity
Cutting-Edge Research Continued from page 9
Award-winning Research
Dr. Manoj Mishra’s research on prostate cancer recently earned him national honors. The assistant professor of biology was selected by the Minorities in Cancer Research Council as a recipient of the MinorityServing Institution Faculty Scholar in Cancer Research Award. The Award is given by the American Association of Cancer Research. “(This award) is not only important for me, but it is a step forward in creating academic excellence and a great environment for cancer research at Alabama State University. This recognition (places) ASU on the national and global map in cancer research,” said Mishra. Researchers in Mishra’s laboratory at the University investigate the role of diet in cancer progression and clearance. Mishra’s vision is to establish a cancer research and educational outreach program at ASU.
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to have presented the research at the annual conference. I think that such opportunities allow the world to see the great strides Alabama State University is making in preparing students for successful careers in whatever fields they choose,” Duncan said.
Forensic Research
Cutting-edge research also is being conducted in ASU’s Forensic Sciences Department, where students and faculty conduct forensic research in chemistry, biology, trace evidence and forensic pathology. “What we have at ASU is rather unique,” said Dr. Harvey Hou, associate professor of microbiology. “We have a combination of forensics and microbiology, and that’s a strong combination that not every university has.” Both graduate and undergraduate students study with Hou, Dr. Azriel Gorski, department chairman and associate professor of forensic science, and Dr. Gulnaz Javan, assistant professor of forensic biology. The University graduated its first four Ph.Ds. in microbiology in the spring of 2011. “The emphasis on the field of microbial forensics really came with the Anthrax scare in 2001,” said Hou. “It’s a relatively new field and more trained professionals are needed in the battle against bioterrorism. ASU students are receiving that training in our labs.” Hou said students also are receiving
traditional forensic training in DNA and firearms analysis, as well as forensic pathology, “which deals with determining the time of death.” “We are training students who could become part of crime investigation teams that solve crimes and help protect our communities. They are in our forensic labs learning how to make a real-life difference in Montgomery, in Alabama and around the world,” Hou added.
Building Relationships through Research
Not all research being conducted at the University is scientific. ASU’s Center for Leadership and Public Policy (CLPP) has a research focus that serves government, state and local agencies. The CLPP is an outreach arm of the University, giving ASU visibility through community collaborations, community support-based projects, and demographic studies, such as a recent survey on the impact of the BP oil spill on the Gulf Coast. The Center also helps counties, cities and school districts plan and redraw district lines. “We have worked with more than 50 school boards, counties and cities,” said Dr. Thomas Vocino, executive director of the CLPP. “We sit down with local elected officials and redraw districts according to court mandates.”
Dallas County Probate Judge Kim Ballard has high praise for the Center’s work. “The Center has state-of-theart demographic information and equipment,” said Ballard. Ballard said the county’s redistricting plan was completed by the Center in just two days. “Two weeks later, the plan was approved by the Dallas County Commission, and then the Justice Department immediately approved it.” The CLPP also helps government agencies and businesses conduct public opinion research at its computer-aided polling center. A poll done by the center on the Republican Presidential Primary in 2012 received national and international media exposure. “Every bit of positive recognition that the Center is able to achieve through its publications, polls and service to governments and nonprofits will, hopefully, benefit the reputation of Alabama State University within Alabama and beyond its borders,” said Vocino. n A partial list of CLPP clients Alabama Administrative Office of Courts Alabama Department of Public Health Alabama Development Office Autauga County Commission Federal Highway Administration Montgomery County Commission Montgomery County Board of Education Alabama Department of Education Elmore County Commission
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“Alabama State University is uniquely positioned to have a powerful, multi-dimensional impact on Montgomery and the River Region.� -- Interim President William H. Harris
A hub of learning and culture, Alabama State University is located just a few miles from the center of commerce in the city of Montgomery and is within walking distance from the hub of legislative activity for the state of Alabama. The University also is adjacent to diverse communities, which provides a wealth of engagement and service opportunities for students, alumni and faculty. 12
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If you haven't seen ASU lately, you haven't seen ASU!
Results -based Training P
State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tommy Bice speaks during the annual forum of the Alabama Council of Teachers of Mathematics. The forum was hosted by ASU's Continuing Education Department.
For decades, Alabama State University has been a major contributor to the economic and social fabric of Montgomery. On campus, the educational impact of ASU’s programs is evident; however, the longstanding offerings of ASU’s Continuing Education Program extend far outside the boundaries of the campus. From touching the lives of young people throughout the Montgomery area and
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providing quality training for today’s professionals, to effecting change internationally through militaryinspired business development, ASU’s outreach cannot be overstated. ASU’s Continuing Education Division uses the educational programs and resources on campus to contribute to its community of students, as well as those who reside outside the University’s walls. Offering everything from adventure and fun to professional licensure and certificates in a variety of fields, ASU quietly transforms the lives of people who are not traditional college students. Olan Wesley, director of Continuing Education and Community Service, one of the most successful outreach programs offered by ASU, says his department has become known for a longtime youth development program known as SKYCAP (Summer Kids/Youth College Adventure Program), which has provided “inspiration” to more than 400 children throughout Montgomery and surrounding counties every summer for more than 12 years.
“We have children on Alabama State’s campus for a reason – to sew a seed,” said Wesley. “We make them aware of what a college campus is like, they get to know faculty and staff, they integrate with the population, and they have use of all the University’s facilities.” The SKYCAP summer program includes classes in math, reading, science, computer animation, web design, robotics, sports, music, arts, crafts and a host of other disciplines. From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., each day, children are reinforcing what they have learned during the school year with activities that keep them academically sharp during the summer.
Professional Training Opportunities
While area youth are enhanced through SKYCAP, area professionals learn new abilities and develop interpersonal skills through the many training opportunities available at ASU. Dr. Willie Thomas, assistant director for Continuing Education,
Programs said the University’s relationships with outside organizations, such as the Alabama State Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR), provide personal and professional development for many state employees. “We provide training in such areas as situational leadership, interpersonal communication skills, image projection, business writing, management strategies and many others,” Thomas said. ASU’s relationship with DOT and DHR provides training for thousands of state employees from across Alabama. ASU’s reputation for delivering quality academic courses has been solidified through the 12 years the program has existed. The training programs are taught by certified, documented professionals. Workshops dealing with office issues such as project management, preventing violence in the workplace, sexual harassment and diversity in the workplace are all provided by ASU. Here again, the influence of ASU’s culture of learning and professionalism continues to impact the state outside the campus. In fact, because of Continuing Education programs like the International Wives’ Training Program, that influence extends outside the United States and around the world. Dr. Edward Brown is the director of the International Wives Training Program, which trains and empowers the wives of officers at the Air War College at Montgomery’s Maxwell Air Force Base. The program has been in existence for four years and allows many wives who are not able to work
Students attending the 2013 SKYCAP summer camp get a lesson in art appreciation from Liz Land, docent for the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts.
full time, the opportunity to gain professional development experience while their husbands complete their responsibilities at Maxwell. The program has served officers’ wives from countries including Bangladesh, India and Pakistan. “We’ve had wives who are doctors, lawyers, attorneys, businesswomen and private business owners…in the program over the last four years,” said Brown. “They are the wives of senior officers who are making good use of their time in Montgomery with a onesemester, 33-hour course that covers everything from human resource management to advanced business management.” The program begins with an analysis of the individual’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to see where each person is in their professional journey. For many of the women, an opportunity to grow professionally and receive quality training in these areas is a privilege that is often not allowed in their home countries. “These women are learning topnotch managerial skills and other abilities that are often on par with what their husbands are learning
here at the Air War College. They leave with a notarized certificate of completion that really means something in their home countries,” Brown said. “We’ve had ladies out of this class who have applied and utilized what they’ve learned at ASU back home. One woman from Nigeria worked at a fish hatchery before coming to ASU. She employed the skills she learned, and now she and her husband own several fish hatcheries and sell fish throughout their region of Africa. Not only does ASU touch those within the realm of its campus, but its influence bleeds outside campus, impacts the greater community, and with respect to this program – impacts the world.” Brown and his wife also serve as Goodwill Ambassadors for international officers and couples for more than 60 countries every 10 months. Brown said the continuing education available at ASU should be showcased. “It is important that we let people know we have this jewel of a program, not because I’m teaching it, but because it provides such a positive image of the influence of a historically black college,” Brown said. n
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If you haven't seen ASU lately, you haven't seen ASU! McQuick Printing
Small Business Collaborations 16
Bill McGough is proud of his 18-year partnership with Alabama State University. As the owner of McQuick Printing, McGough is one of the University’s vendors for printing and design projects. “I attended ASU for three years; I’m a former Marching Hornet,” said McGough. “I truly recognize ASU as a bright spot in Montgomery and a successful university. It’s rewarding to know that our work helps ASU to continue doing the good work that it does for Montgomery.” McQuick partners with ASU in a number of ways. The company has been a corporate sponsor for ASU’s annual Business and Community Breakfast for four years. McQuick supports ASU initiatives such as the ASPIRE program and also provides internships for graphic design students. McGough, whose business is celebrating its 20th year, said ASU is an important client for many small businesses in the River Region. “For businesses like mine who partner with ASU, the University helps us to provide and maintain jobs,” said McGough. “I have 27 employees, and ASU provides a revenue stream and block of business that our employees count on for their livelihood. We have ASU graduates on our staff, including our head designer, Malcolm Edgecombe, who gets to work on publications such as ASU Today and the football gameday programs. I am proud to be a Hornet, and I’m thankful for my association with Alabama State University.” n
AKD (American Klassic Designs)
Montgomery’s AKD is a small business that makes a big impact through providing custom screen printing and embroidery, and advertising through specialty products. For the past 15 years, AKD’s partnership with ASU has evolved by “design.” “We started out working with the University’s bookstore,” said Greg Schafer, vice president and co-owner of AKD. “We did a good enough job that we received referrals to other University departments.” Schafer and his business partner of 27 years, Pat Atkins, employ more than 40 full and part time workers. “We love taking good care of our customers, making them look sharp. We pride ourselves on getting products to our clients on time to help them celebrate big events like homecoming, football games and SWAC championships,” he added. For Schafer, his company’s association with ASU is mutually beneficial. The company is one of the sponsors of the University’s annual Business and Community Breakfast. “Besides the financial benefit, we also take a lot of pride and pleasure in supporting ASU so that the University can continue to grow. We know what ASU does for this community, and we’re glad to be a part of that,” Schafer added. n
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If you haven't seen ASU lately, you haven't seen ASU!
Callie Hincy
Jennifer Solt
24 Communications Marketing Firm When small business owner Callie Hincy needed assistance with navigating the process for gaining federal certifications, she turned to ASU’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and, specifically, to the center’s procurement specialist, Thomas Taylor. “He literally held my hand through the complicated process,” said Hincy. “He actually would give me homework to do — two or three things at a time — so that I wouldn’t be overwhelmed. He also kept me abreast of forums and seminars on ASU’s campus that he felt would help me.” Hincy said Taylor helped her
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company to obtain Minority-owned business, Women-owned Business, DBE, Certified Small Business and Hub Zone certifications, all of which are essential for gaining government contracts. Hincy said she and other 24 Communications employees are regular attendees at SBDC workshops. “The SBDC is a tremendous resource that most people don’t know about. I had no idea that all of that information was coming out of ASU. The Center has been a great help to us. If we hear about a (SBDC) workshop going on at ASU and we’re available, we’ll be there,” Hincy added.
The SBDC provides training for more than 1,500 participants and serves more than 200 small businesses annually. Center specialists are responsible for assisting businesses with more than $1.6 million in loans per year. SBDC services include business plan development, loan package reviews, specialized development workshops for women and veterans, individual counseling and assistance with securing Small Business Administration loans. For more information on the Small Business Development Center at Alabama State University, call 334-229-4138. n
Community Partnerships Continued from page 8
McQuick’s Chief Operating Officer, Andy King, and Customer Service Representative, Mary Owens, discuss one of the printing projects handled by the company.
Alabama State University is proud of its associations with a diverse group of small businesses in the River Region. Below is a partial list of those with whom the University partners: 1. 24 Communications 2. AKD 3. Bibb Welding & Fabrication Company 4. Brendle Sprinkler Company 5. Bush Signs 6. Carol’s Carpet 7. Cannon’s Janitorial Service 8. Dad’s Enterprises 9. Davis Printing 10. Extreme Heating & Air 11. Famco 12. H&H Carpets 13. Ja’Nel Contracting Company 14. Jenilyn’s Creations 15. McQuick Printing 16. Milner Homes, LLC 17. Montgomery Electronics and Communications Services 18. Montgomery Topdressers 19. Royal Construction 20. Signs Now 21. Spacewalker 22. Specialty Turf Supply 23. Topco Pest Control 24. United Heating, Air, and Plumbing 25. Zion Construction, LLC
from 20 schools in Montgomery and the Black Belt who took part in competitions in three categories: Web Design, Mathematics and Cinematic Expression. Delicia Anderson, who teaches advanced business technology and information technology at Wilcox Central High School, entered two teams. “This competition gives them life lessons and the opportunity to compete, which is what they have to do when they apply for jobs,” said Anderson. Bhanu Sharma, a senior at Montgomery’s Loveless Academic Magnet Program (LAMP), said the competition was a rewarding experience. “This is a difficult competition, and I wanted to participate in it so that I could challenge myself,” said Bhanu. “It’s also fun.”
Other Community Partnerships
ASU’s community outreach programs are varied. From helping to beautify the grounds of a nursing home to making quilts for those without homes, the ASU family logs countless hours of community service, while partnering with a number of agencies to serve local residents. Some of ASU’s community partnerships include Great Time Breakfasts with local religious leaders, the Bridge Builders Breakfast series, Prom Dress Giveaway, Common Ground cleanup efforts, Violence Against Women anti-abuse initiative, Night with the Biscuits, Rally in the Alley Homecoming events, Jazz on the Grass, WVAS Halloween Spooktacular and Yuletide Giving. n
Steve Searcy, executive director of the Alabama Family Justice Center, speaks during a dating violence awareness program hosted by ASU's Department of Public Safety.
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If you haven't seen ASU lately, you haven't seen ASU!
Alumni/Community Connections
Edward Billingsley In just four years, Alabama State University will celebrate her sesquicentennial. The grand old Mother Dear’s 150th “birthday” marks a milestone of excellence in preparing students to take their places in the world as productive engineers of change. While many of our alumni choose paths that take them far away from the “happy harbor” described in the University’s school song, others have chosen to remain close to the “blessed place” they came to call home. ASU alums are committed to boosting the quality of life throughout the city Ole ‘Bama State calls home.
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Edward Billingsley is a proud member of the class of ’98. He ran track for four years under Coach Horace Crump. Now, the Atlanta native is director of the upper school at The Montgomery Academy (MA), a prestigious private prep school with a long history of academic excellence. Billingsley, who spent 13 years as dean of students at Atlanta’s acclaimed Lovett School prior to joining MA, holds an undergraduate and master’s degree in counseling from ASU. He started his new job July 1. “It was not in my plans to return to Montgomery, but they called and the opportunity was there,” he says. One of the first things Billingsley did after moving his wife and two daughters to Montgomery was to take a tour of ASU. “To say I was astounded would be an understatement,” Billingsley said. “My old dorm (Benson) was gone, but everywhere on campus there were so many new buildings. I really couldn’t believe it.” His current ambition is to help students at MA develop into the leaders of tomorrow. “I want our students to spread the MA brand across the country and around the world.” n
Traci Smith
Alabama State University alumni are a vital part of the Montgomery community. Whether in business, the classroom or in community service, members of the Hornet Nation have a profound impact on life in the capital city. One of the University’s service-driven alumnae is Montgomery native, Traci Smith. Traci Smith is no stranger to overcoming obstacles and learned at an early age that nothing in life comes easy. Diagnosed with a moderate to severe hearing loss in both ears in preschool, Smith did everything that was thought to be impossible and has lived a “normal” life. Smith learned to adapt to challenging situations, and because of the obstacles she faced, dedicated herself to improving the lives of young people and providing support to those in need. “Obstacles to me are nothing more than opportunities,” Smith said. “By giving my time with the youth, it is the perfect way to motivate and inspire them to go after their goals and help them achieve them too.” In 2009, Smith founded the S.H.E. Agency LLC, an organization aimed at promoting memorable experiences while making a positive impact in the community. Through the outreach of S.H.E Agency, Smith has been a mentor to hundreds of Montgomery’s youth
through programs such as the “Stuff the Bus Campaign” which provides school supplies to countless educators and families in Montgomery County. She also is the visionary behind the All TIEd Up and the All DOLLed Up projects, a series of enrichment workshops for young people, ages 10 to 18. “I decided to reach out to today’s youth because they are our future,” Smith said. “I believe it is our responsibility to mentor and prepare them for the real world. We must take the time to teach them how to dress for success and make responsible choices.” Smith, a proud Hornet, earned a bachelor in computer science with a minor in mathematics in 2004. She believes that in serving others, she is honoring those who helped her. “It is very important to give back to the community,” Smith said. “It gives you a new perspective on life. Giving back doesn’t necessarily mean money, but volunteering your time can make a big impact on someone’s life.” In addition to her work with S.H.E. Agency, Smith holds leadership positions with a number of local service and professional organizations, including the Capital City Club and the group’s Young Leadership Council, EMERGE Montgomery and its Torchbearers Alumni Committee, and the Teen Model Board for The Shoppes at EastChase. n
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If you haven't seen ASU lately, you haven't seen ASU!
Swarming Hornets Montgomery Football’s Fabulous Four
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in fact, that they have a collaborative proposal of sorts that would bring them back to the gridiron at ASU. The idea is to play at least a game or two at The New ASU Stadium instead of at its 90-year-old predecessor, Cramton Bowl. Even after a recent renovation, the coaches say it’s crowded. All four coaches are devoted followers of the Hornets. With the number of high schools now using Cramton Bowl, however, some games must be scheduled on Saturdays. This means whoever is scheduled on that day has to miss the ASU game. “We hate missing games,” said Gresham. “It would be exciting to schedule a few Friday games here at ASU,” said Rogers. “We could draw a crowd. “They didn’t build it just to play six football games,” said Harris. “The kids would love it,” said Carter. For the coaches, their idea is just another way for ASU to partner with the community. “We’d like to present our case for bringing high school ball to ASU,” said Rogers. “I think it would benefit all of us.”n
Coach Clayton Harris Jr. ‘04 Sidney Lanier
Played wide receiver at Lanier and ASU and spent eight years as an assistant coach at Prattville High School before accepting the head coaching position at Lanier.
Coach Lee Carter ‘04 Jefferson Davis
Played outside linebacker at Stone Mountain High School in Georgia, then fullback at ASU and spent six years as an assistant coach at Carver before accepting the head coaching position at Jeff Davis.
Coach Billy Gresham ‘04 George W. Carver
Played linebacker at Lanier and ASU and served as an assistant coach at Carver for three seasons until landing the head coaching position in 2012.
For more information on how you can partner with Alabama State University, call 334-229-6795 • www.alasu.edu
If you ask most high school athletes to name the people who had the biggest impact on their lives, most of them would rank their coaches high on the list. When the 2013 football players from Montgomery’s public high schools are asked for their lists, odds are that a former Hornet will make the roster. That’s because four ASU alums – three from the same 2004 SWAC Championship team and all former gridiron standouts – now lead Montgomery’s largest four high school football programs: former NFL defensive end Tyrone Rogers at Lee, Clayton Harris Jr. at Lanier, Billy Gresham at Carver and Lee Carter at Jeff Davis. The camaraderie of this foursome was apparent on a hot June day when they gathered in The New ASU Stadium to pose for photographs. They could not help but compare the new facility to the one in which they played. “Our locker room was in a beat up trailer and our training room was in an old bingo hall,” said Gresham. Like Harris and Carter, Gresham played under L.C. Cole and then Charles Coe. The coaches are proud of what they see now at their alma mater. So proud,
Coach Tyrone Rogers ‘98 Robert E. Lee
Played defensive end at Lee and ASU and later spent six years with the Cleveland Browns. Coached defensive line for ASU until accepting the head coaching position at Lee.
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If you haven't seen ASU lately, you haven't seen ASU!
If you haven’t seen ASU lately, you haven’t seen ASU! 10 Reasons to Take a Closer Look at Alabama State University
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Academic Expansion ASU has more than 51 academic programs and has added seven new graduate and undergraduate-degree programs over a 3-year period, including the Master of Science in Prosthetics and Orthotics (one of only 13 programs in the country), the Ph.D. in Educational Leadership, Policy and Law and the Ph.D. in microbiology.
2 Award-winning Faculty
ASU’s dynamic faculty includes awardwinning professors and talented researchers, who have gained national and international recognition for their contributions.
3 Economic Impact 4 Record Enrollment 5 Campus Growth
ASU has an annual impact of nearly $1 billion on Alabama
and the River Region.
ASU enrolled a record 6,076 students for 2013-14, representing 42 states and more than 28 countries. ASU has completed $250 million in construction projects over a 5-year period, including new academic buildings, new residence halls, a new student center and an on-campus stadium.
6 Global Partnerships
ASU has growing partnerships with countries such as China, South Korea, China, India, Africa and Scotland, providing exchange opportunities for faculty and students.
7 Championship Athletics 8 Nuclear Training Academy 9 Endowment 10 Classic Traditions
ASU’s track, cross country and men’s golf teams have won multiple SWAC championships over the past four years. ASU will provide training for individuals who will protect nuclear facilities across the United States and abroad.
ASU’s endowment has reached $82 million, allowing the University to provide scholarships and other financial support for students.
ASU Hornets play in the oldest (Turkey Day Classic) and the largest (Magic City Classic) HBCU football classics, drawing more than 100,000 fans to these historical events.
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Thank you for your support of Alabama State University!
Your partnership helps us make a difference in
our community.
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explore
Explore the wealth of opportunities that awaits you at ASU, where more than 50 degree programs offer a variety of choices, and a low student-faculty ratio assures personal attention in the classroom. You’ll also find a transformed campus with state-of-the-art facilties, including new residence halls, student center and athletics venues.
experience Experience the Bama State spirit, experienced faculty
and engaged student body. ASU is a Division 1 member of the NCAA and of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). More than 64 student clubs and organizations, including sororities and fraternities, as well as academic and honor societies, supplement the social and cultural offerings of metropolitan Montgomery. More than 6,000 students hail from around the nation and the world.
excel
Excel when you go far beyond your
greatest expectations, succeeding on your own terms on a global stage. ASU offers study abroad opportunities in China, South Korea and India among others. At ASU, learning crosses cultural and geographic boundaries. ASU brings the world to your fingertips. There is no limit to your potential.
official publication 13-455
www.alasu.edu