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It’s Never Too Late to Graduate
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Contents
2012 Foundation Board of Directors Officers 3..........From the Desk of the President: Dr. Philip C. Williams
Bob Davidson, President Judy Fuller, Vice President
4.........Learning to Be Innovative
Willie Mount, Secretary James E. Taussig, Treasurer
5..........A Partnership Between McNeese & PPG Industries
Emma DiCarlo-Vincent, Immediate Past President
6-9......It’s Never Too Late to Graduate
Members Glen Bertrand
10-11...Doing Something Well
Roxie Boxie Tom Henning
12-13....A Little Something Extra
Joe T. Miller, Sr. Lee J. Monlezun, Jr.
14-15...McNeese Graduates Take on the World
Ryan Navarre George Paret
16........The Oak Tree – A Southern Symbol of Strength
Patricia Prebula Billy Rose
17........Ethics in Education
John Scofield Jim Serra
18........Geaux Blue at the McNeese Bookstore
David Stine Charles Timpa Ray A. Todd, Jr.
19........Pillars and Foundation Staff
Tom Tuminello, Sr.
Archives Photo Contest
Aubrey White 20.......John McNeese Park
Ex Officio Members Philip C. Williams
Become a McNeese Foundation Circle member with an annual contribution beginning at the $100 level. For membership levels and benefits, visit www.mcneesefoundation.org/giving and then click on “Memberships.”
Richard H. Reid Advisory Board Members Billy Blake Coral Crain Byrd David Drez Fred R. Godwin Marilyn Hays Charles Viccellio 2
Scanning this mobile QR-code into your smart phone links you to the McNeese State University Foundation website. A scanning application/QR-code reader, such as Scanlife, a free application, is required. Simply take a picture using your smart phone camera.
From the desk of the President Innovation Inspired by Tradition
Through the promotion of innovative teaching and learning methodologies, regional partnerships, service-learning opportunities, applied research, cultural engagement, and athletic excellence, McNeese will play an active leadership role in the civic and economic renaissance likely to transform Southwest Louisiana over the next five years. McNeese Vision Statement (2013-2017) An interesting phenomenon occurred during our strategic planning brainstorming sessions. While I made it a point not to mention the four core values held by McNeese since 2004-2005, constituent responses given in the 33 brainstorming sessions, along with submissions received through the web-survey, email and mail, reaffirmed the following core values: • Academic Excellence • Student Success • Fiscal Responsibility • University-Community Alliances We are a university that values high academic standards, we care about the success of our students, we are accountable to our students and to taxpayers for every dollar we spend, and we are eager to partner with business and community organizations in Southwest Louisiana. These four core values are prominent components of our new vision statement. Another important point that was repeated over and over in the strategic planning sessions was that the phrase “Excellence with a Personal Touch!” is more than a slogan. It is the heart and soul of our campus culture and fosters a feeling of unity and belonging among students, faculty and staff. It also promotes a spirit of innovation that we can harness to achieve our goals. I recently reviewed the biography of our namesake and found some striking parallels between his life’s work and our university’s mission and goals. John McNeese was an innovator and a visionary. He saw the need for an organized public school system in Southwest Louisiana, and starting in 1888 with practically nothing, he led the effort to construct school buildings, increase enrollment and improve teacher qualifications. At the end of his 25 years as superintendent of schools in Imperial Calcasieu Parish, he had built a well-respected school system and became known as a great pioneer educator. It appears that decades ago Superintendent McNeese focused on those same values of academic excellence, student success, fiscal responsibility and building community alliances. As we begin to lead McNeese into the future and make plans to celebrate the 75th anniversary of this great university in 2014, we will do so with a keen understanding of our core values and a passion for innovation! 3
Learning to Be Innovative McNeese will soon be home to an Innovation Center designed to provide students from all majors with the tools and environment needed to develop innovative thinking skills. As one of just two universities in the nation to offer courses in the Innovation Engineering Management System, the McNeese Innovation Center will be the place for students to meet, think and learn to be creative. “Our students must understand how to collaborate and generate meaningful ideas as well as solutions,” Dr. Jeanne Daboval, McNeese provost and vice president for academic and student affairs, explained. “They need to learn to be flexible and to adapt to changing environments. We want to develop students that will be innovative in every discipline, every major and endeavor they choose.” 4
Students in the Innovation Engineering classes will use the Innovation Lab to brainstorm, generate ideas, test theories and create solutions. The Innovation Incubator will offer students space, technology and tools to transform their entrepreneurial ideas into new businesses. The Engineering Innovation minor consists of five, three-hour courses that build upon the theories, knowledge and skills learned in each previous course. Faculty in the program advise, mentor and encourage students to look for alternative solutions while they gain confidence working on individual and team projects. The McNeese Innovation Center will be located in the new Southwest Louisiana Entrepreneurial and Economic Development (SEED) Center that is under construction
on seven acres of McNeese property on the west side of Ryan Street. The SEED Center is scheduled to open in spring 2013. The SEED Center is a partnership between McNeese, the Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance, Calcasieu Parish Police Jury and the city of Lake Charles to centralize economic development and entrepreneurial activities for Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron and Jefferson Davis parishes. Known as the “Career Accelerator Program,” the Innovation Engineering curriculum was developed by Doug Hall at the University of Maine. Hall has been called the “innovation guru” to America’s top corporations including Disney, Nike and his former employer, Proctor & Gamble.
A Partnership Between McNeese & PPG Industries A partnership between McNeese and PPG IndustriesLake Charles is giving McNeese students a living laboratory to conduct research in plant and soil sciences, resource conservation and wildlife behavior. Having access to this facility with its diverse ecosystem allows McNeese students to perform hands-on research in a natural setting, something that many universities cannot offer. The “classroom in the woods� includes more than 10,000 feet of trails and a large pond. Students in biological science and engineering classes frequently visit the facility to perform field experiments or work on research projects. Gary Kratzer, a retired science teacher, serves as the Naturelab Project Coordinator and manages the day-today operations. He is working to develop age appropriate environmental education and outreach programs designed to increase usage of the Naturelab facility by school and youth groups. Area boy scout troops have completed work to build trail markers and bird houses and the Louisiana Environmental Research Center at McNeese is establishing a wildflower preserve. This is a unique educational experience to be enjoyed by students, teachers and various clubs and organizations in Southwest Louisiana. McNeese and PPG are working together to ensure that the Naturelab has an even greater positive impact on the community.
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FOUNDATION TIES Shannon Allen • Recipient • Non-Traditional Student Scholarship • Edith and Adam LeDoux Memorial Scholarship • Dr. Thomas Leary Engineering Scholarship La Toya Boutte • Recipient • Mildred and Jerry Harless Memorial Scholarship Joel Daugherty • Recipient • W.A.K. Seale Memorial Scholarship
It’s Never Too Late to Graduate So, you think it’s too late to return to college – Think again. One student transferring to McNeese took 52 years to complete a degree and the University’s most seasoned graduate was 82 years old.
Camp Victory in Iraq. His last stop brought him to Fort Polk, La., where he served with the 2nd Armored Calvary Regiment.
Shannon Allen – College of Engineering and Engineering Technology
After his discharge from the Army in 2005 as an E-6 staff sergeant, Shannon went to work for Electrical Reliability Services, a division of Emerson Process Management.
“As a non-traditional student, I have a better understanding of what is important in life. While grades reflect on learning, it is just as important to put content learned into action,” said Shannon Allen, a senior in the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology.
The GI Bill combined with McNeese’s Non-Traditional Student Scholarship provided the financial incentive Shannon needed to return to college in fall 2008.
Growing up in Maryland’s Hartford County, Shannon attended Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, a preparatory high school that emphasized a science and engineering curriculum. Shannon tried his hand at college, but financial obligations got in the way. He went to work as an electrician before deciding to join the U.S. Army. Shannon completed basic training at Fort Knox, Ky. Over the next eight years he was stationed at the Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland, at Fort Belvoir in Virginia, at Fort Lewis in Washington State and at 6
As with many non-traditional students, Shannon is pursuing his degree while working full time. As a senior field technician performing relay testing and calibration with Tidal Power Services, Shannon stated, “I’m fortunate that my company’s management supports my education goals.” Dr. Fred Denny, associate professor of engineering, said, “I have taught a number of veterans in my classes, including Shannon. I enjoy teaching the ‘vets’ because they have not only the maturity, but also the desire to learn practical skills for the next phase of their lives.”
FOUNDATION TIES Jesse Eaker • Recipient • H.C. Drew Scholarship Robert Estaville • Recipient • Robert Noland Nursing Scholarship • Christus St. Patrick Nursing Scholarship Cathy Martin • President of Delta Sigma Pi • Development Director for Society for Human Resource Management
The McNeese Foundation awarded Shannon the Edith and Adam LeDoux Memorial Scholarship and the Dr. Thomas Leary Engineering Scholarship. “The financial support the scholarships provide help to smooth out the rough edges at this time in my life,” said Shannon. Shannon will graduate in fall 2012. He hopes his parents will be on hand for the graduation and to meet their newest grandchild, Brayden, and see their other grandchildren, Jacob, Grace and Gavin. After graduation, Shannon and his fiancée, Bridgett Willis, hope to take more time out for family activities such as skiing and wakeboarding.
La Toya Boutte – Burton College of Education “If I had enrolled in college when I was 18 years old, I might have done enough to get by – but more likely – I would have just had fun. Now that I am older and wiser I realize the importance of getting a good education and being a role model to my children,” said La Toya Boutte, a junior majoring in elementary education. After graduating from LaGrange High School in 2002, La Toya enrolled in school at Delta Tech and completed the requirements for an associate degree in occupational studies. She worked as a medical assistant and transcriptionist at the Urology Center of Southwest Louisiana for three years. However, as a single mother, La Toya wanted more for herself and her family. La Toya applied for student loans and a Pell grant and enrolled at McNeese. Her goal was to become an elementary school teacher. “I’m happy to be setting an example for my children. I hope that one day they will follow in my footsteps and earn their degrees,” stated La Toya. La Toya’s children are Jaylon, 9, and Alaina, 4. Jaylon is an honor roll student at Fairview Elementary School, and while not yet old enough for public school, Alaina serves as “pupil” to La Toya as she practices her new teaching skills. La Toya received the Mildred and Jerry Harless Memorial Scholarship in spring 2012. “The scholarship lightened my financial burden and allowed me to place my focus on the most important aspect of school--learning.” She expects to complete her studies in December 2013. As a first-generation college graduate, La Toya stated,
“My family is very proud of me. Since my parents never had the opportunity to attend college, I will be the first in my family to earn a degree.”
Joel Daugherty – College of Liberal Arts “I returned to college after 15 years to fulfill my dream of becoming a licensed practical counselor. I hope to pay forward the blessings I have received in this life by helping families in crisis,” stated Joel Daugherty, sociology major in the College of Liberal Arts. Joel came to McNeese as a graduate of Westlake High School in 1994 but confesses that he wasn’t focused on his studies. He quit school when a youth pastor position opened up. His wife, Dawn, supported his decision while being a stay-at-home mom raising Kristen, Abigail, Anna and Elijah. After more than 10 years working in the ministry, Joel and Dawn decided to pursue their degrees. Dawn graduated from McNeese in May 2012 with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology. Joel is nearing completion of his sociology degree with graduation expected in December. He has taken his course work mostly online through the Center for Adult Learning in Louisiana, or the CALL program. Joel said, “The CALL program is extremely convenient and right at my fingertips. I can study at night after the kids go to bed or at my leisure anytime of the day.” As a requirement of his course work, Joel interns with the Family and Youth Counseling Agency. He received the W.A.K. Seale Memorial Scholarship in spring 2012. Joel and Dawn both plan to pursue graduate degrees in psychology beginning in January 2013. Their goal is to become licensed professional counselors and marriage and family therapists. “Through my years serving in the ministry, I have seen the struggles families go through. I believe that as a counselor, I can make a tangible difference in the lives of others,” said Joel.
Jesse Eaker – College of Science “When you graduate from high school, you aren’t sure about life in general. I probably would have flunked out of college then. Now I am more focused and care about my studies. I have a lot invested in it since it is my money and my responsibility to succeed,” said Jesse Eaker, a junior majoring in natural resources conservation management 7
with an emphasis on wildlife. Jesse graduated from Alexander Central High School in Taylorsville, N.C., and joined the U.S. Navy. He was stationed at Whidbey Island, Wash., his entire seven-year career, serving as an aviation electronics technician 2nd class. After discharge, Jesse graduated from the Divers Institute of Technology in Seattle and became a certified commercial diver. He intended on working inland, diving in water towers Jesse Eaker or around bridges and dams, but at the time, employment for inland divers was scant. Jesse accepted a position with Global Industries (now Technip) and moved to Louisiana to work in the offshore oil market. While commercial diving proved lucrative, Jesse’s passion was the outdoors – above water outdoors. He hopes to find a government position with the U.S. National Park Service, the Department of Agriculture or the Geological Survey after graduation. The Chapter 33 (Post-9/11) GI Bill is supporting his efforts. Jesse enrolled at McNeese in the summer of 2010 and continues to work part-time at Global. He received the H.C. Drew Scholarship in fall 2011. This past summer, Jesse completed an internship in the swamps of the Atchafalaya Basin. “My job was to catch frogs and snakes for use in amphibian and reptiles research,” stated Jesse. When asked about the dangers of working in the swamps, Jesse responded, “I’m never afraid of the animals, but sometimes there are crazy swamp people out there who shoot at you if you get near their property!” Jesse will graduate in December 2013. He is anxious to rejoin his high school sweetheart and wife of nine years, Kristy, who is a biologist working at The Elephant Sanctuary in Hohenwald, Tenn.
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Robert Estaville – College of Nursing “I had been dodging the nursing bullet for some time. I knew I had a heart for helping people, but I wasn’t sure how it was going to come about. When I learned that the GI Bill was a ‘use it or lose it’ proposition, I knew it was time to go back to college,” stated Robert Estaville, a senior in the College of Nursing. Robert comes from a family with extensive military service. His late father, Jerry, served in the U.S. Navy aboard a submarine and in the U.S. Army as a commissioned artillery officer. His brother, Daniel, is currently an Army JAG officer. Both Jerry and Daniel are McNeese alumni. After graduating from Sam Houston High School in 1995, Robert joined the U.S. Army National Guard and completed his basic training at Fort Knox, Ky. Upon returning to Lake Charles, he enrolled at McNeese. After one semester, Robert realized that he lacked the maturity to succeed. He quit school, completed his National Guard commitment and worked odd jobs in Louisiana and California. Robert re-enlisted in 1999, signing up for active duty in the U.S. Army. He was stationed in Germany, transferred to Fort Hood in Killeen, Texas, and deployed to Bagdad, Iraq, with the 1st Squadron - 7th Cavalry Regiment - 1st Brigade Combat Team - 1st Cavalry division. Robert served as a Calvary Scout riding in a Bradley Fighting Vehicle which was hit 16 times during his deployment. “I was in constant fear – every day – all the time. I lost 13 men that I had served with,” stated Robert. All told, he served in the National Guard for five years and on active duty another six years. In fall 2009, the “bullet” finally caught up with him. Robert enrolled at McNeese in its nursing program. Ruth Hinchee, Robert’s grandmother and a 1974 alum and College of Nursing faculty retiree, provided inspiration. Robert received the Robert Noland Nursing Scholarship in spring 2011 and the Christus St. Patrick Nursing Scholarship in fall 2011. He participates in the STEP program (Student Training and Employment Program) through the ICU at Christus St. Patrick Hospital. Robert will graduate in spring 2013 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. He and his wife, Gena, and daughter, BrookLynn, plan to relocate to the Florida coast after graduation.
Cathy Martin – College of Business “As the director of the business office at Women and Children’s Hospital, I watched younger employees get hired at salaries $20,00030,000 more than I was making because I didn’t have that piece of paper [a college diploma],” stated Cathy Martin, a senior in the College of Business. Cathy was raised by a great aunt and uncle who believed that children were brought up to work. After graduating from Vidalia High School in 1979, Cathy became a switchboard operator at the Natchez Community Hospital in Mississippi. She worked her way up the ladder, passing through virtually every position short of nurse. A former supervisor recruited Cathy to move to Van Buren, Ark., where she worked as a business office director at another hospital. One night, Cathy was caught driving on black ice. That incident convinced her that it was time to head south. As a single mom raising Amanda, Leslie and Stafford, Cathy decided to move the family to Lake Charles. Although Cathy felt a great sense of accomplishment in her career, she knew that she still lacked that piece of paper. At age 48, Cathy enrolled at McNeese. “At the time I was scared to death but I’ve always enjoyed a challenge,” she said. Cathy attends classes with students half her age and confesses that she has never had more fun. “My children see their mom hanging out with all these kids their own age and accuse me of having a more active social life than they do.” She serves as president of Delta Sigma Pi and as development director for the Society for Human Resource Management in the College of Business. Graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in business management with a concentration in human resources in December, Cathy hopes to continue her studies at McNeese in the Master of Business Administration program.
Non-traditional students usually fall into one of two categories – those that start college but drop out when life gets in the way and those who have never attended college. The students who dropped out are generally motivated by something to return. They reorganize their lives and put an all-out effort into achieving their academic goals the second time around. They usually complete their course work at the head of the class. The non-starters decide to enroll in college for the first time as adults to move ahead for employment, to satisfy a personal self-esteem goal or to set an example for their children. They may struggle at first but they soon catch up and move ahead quickly. It is a pleasure teaching nontraditional students. These are adults who are balancing the trifecta of the stresses of family responsibilities, the demands of full-time employment and the requirements of a full course load. Taken as a group, non-traditional students are strongly committed, highly motivated, open to learning, respectful in their approach and focused on their goals. Their time is precious. As faculty, we are challenged to help them use their time wisely and productively. It is a joy and a privilege to see them through to graduation, to be part of their sometimes difficult journey and to witness the pleasure and fulfillment of their dreams.
Dr. Allison Gibbons Assistant Professor, Social Sciences 9
Doing Something Well
“I graduated from high school at a time when it wasn’t cool to do well in school,” said Dr. Gault H. Townsend, a certified medical review officer and pathologist at the Pathology Laboratory in Lake Charles. “As a child, I didn’t apply myself in school. I knew that it was important to be able to do something well, but I lacked self-confidence and wasn’t sure what I could do,” said Gault. While listening to KAOK radio one day, Gault began tapping along to the beat. He found that he could maintain excellent rhythm. He practiced that rhythm by turning metal garbage cans over and drumming on the flat surface. If he wanted to replicate the sound of a snare, he wrapped a T-shirt around the top. If he wanted to replicate the sound of a symbol, he placed pennies across the surface. Finally, in high school, Gault’s parents, Jeff and Joyce, bought him a real set of drums from Zypiens Music – the drums were blue agate pearl. He joined a band called, “The Living Ends,” which included Mike Veron, rhythm guitar, Freddie Theriot, lead guitar, Victor Pohorelsky, keyboards, Ronnie Louviere, bass, and of course, Gault, at the drums. After graduating from Lake Charles High School, Gault moved to Ruston to attend Louisiana Tech University and joined a fraternity. His educational endeavor, however, was cut short when he developed mononucleosis. Back home one day pondering his future, Gault saw a television program about hospital orderlies and thought maybe that was an occupation that he could fill. The next day he walked over to St. Patrick’s Hospital from his home on Helen Street and applied for a position. The 10
receptionist told him that the only opening St. Patrick’s had available was in the laboratory. Gault – the future pathologist – responded, “Working in a laboratory is not for me.” Not taking no for an answer, the receptionist marched Gault upstairs to the lab where he was hired as a phlebotomist. Gault eventually returned to Louisiana Tech, graduating in 1972 with a Bachelor of Science degree in pre-medicine. He moved to New Orleans to work at Charity Hospital on the night shift in the emergency room lab. It was during this time that Gault first entertained becoming a physician.
“I will never forget where I came from and what it took for me to get where I am today. Giving back to those that helped me to achieve my goals is a ‘no brainer.’” - Dr. Gault Townsend One weekend Gault came home to Lake Charles so his mom could wash his clothes. As he backed out of his driveway to return to New Orleans, his path was blocked by a car driven by Mrs. Edmund C. (Edna) Campbell. She asked Gault to deliver a pack of steaks to her daughter, Evie, a nursing student in New Orleans. Reluctantly, Gault agreed. He remembered meeting Evie from a previous and unremarkable date the two had the year before. Back in New Orleans, Gault put the steaks in the freezer and forgot about them. One day, he and his roommates, who included [Senator] Dan W. “Blade” Morrish, decided to throw a party with the steaks. Eaters-remorse set in
Foundation Ties Dr. & Mrs. Gault Townsend • Donors
• Dr. George V.S. White Scholarship in Pre-med • Dr. and Mrs. Edmond C. Campbell Scholarship in Nursing
the next morning. Gault called Evie to confess, “I ate your meat.” That started a five-hour conversation which has continued 37 years. They married Dec. 29, 1974.
enrolled at Louisiana State University in New Orleans in August 1980. A short nine years later he was serving as the chief resident in pathology at Charity Hospital.
Gault decided that the time had come to do something well that would support his family. With fear and trepidation, he enrolled in the biology graduate program at McNeese.
To this day, Gault still reveres Dr. White and credits the mentoring he received at McNeese with the accomplishments he has achieved today. Dr. White reminds Gault of Professor Charles W. Kingsfield Jr. from the 1973 classic movie, The Paper Chase, aptly played by the late actor John Houseman. The symbiotic relationship between the student and the professor in the movie felt eerily similar to Gault’s own experience as a student in Dr. White’s class.
His mentors included Mary Kordisch Hebert, a zoology professor and pre-med adviser who cautioned Gault to “stay out of the beer joints,” and Melvin E. Schmidt, a zoology professor who warned him about “keeping up his studies in a classroom of young bucks.” However, Gault’s most influential mentor was Dr. George V.S. White, a biology professor and department head. Dr. White expected performance from his students – slacking off was not an option – and perform he did! Gault was awarded a Master of Science degree in biology in 1978, completing the program with all A’s and one B. Back at St. Patrick’s Hospital lab working post-graduation, Gault applied to and was accepted by numerous medical schools. He
Gault said the greatest thing that ever happened to him was when Mrs. Campbell blocked his departure that fateful weekend. He may have never been reintroduced to Evie, the key person in his life, otherwise. Gault and Evie are the proud parents of five children: Sara, a registered nurse, and Elizabeth, a dietician, both McNeese graduates; Chad, a McNeese drumline member before transferring to Louisiana State University; and Kate and Patrick. They have three
grandsons and a granddaughter. Gault’s mother, Joyce Gault Townsend, is also a 1943 graduate of McNeese and served as the only “May Queen” named at McNeese when it was still a junior college. In his spare time, Gault retreats to his above-the-garage man-cave to listen to music. He taps along to the sound of the drums in a room surrounded by musical memorabilia. Oh…the nostalgia… Dr. and Mrs. Gault H. Townsend established the Dr. George V.S. White Scholarship in Pre-med and the Dr. and Mrs. Edmond C. Campbell Scholarship in Nursing. They also support the Sonny Watkins Athletic Scholarship, the Anita and Joe Tritico Performing Arts Scholarship and the Endow an Oak campaign.
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A Little Something Extra
McNeese Named a Top-Tier Regional University by U.S. News & World Report McNeese was named one of the top-tier regional universities in the South in the 2013 Best Colleges edition of U.S. News & World Report. McNeese was ranked the highest Tier One Louisiana regional public university in two categories: Best Regional Universities-South category, where McNeese was the second highest rated Louisiana university; and in the Top Public SchoolsRegional South category, where U.S. News ranked McNeese in a tie for 43rd place. There are 625 institutions nationwide included in the regional category, with 134 regional institutions in the South.
MFA Program Ranks No. 24 in Nation McNeese’s Master of Fine Arts program has been ranked for the second year in a row as one of the top 50 MFA programs in the United States by Poets & Writers magazine. The McNeese program is at No. 24 – a jump from No. 40 in the nation last year. Housed in the Department of English and Foreign Languages in the College of Liberal Arts, the McNeese program ranked better than major programs at Boston University, Columbia University, University of South Carolina, Purdue University, Ohio State University, University of Mississippi and the University of Arkansas.
SHRM Chapter Recognized as Top 10 Chapter in Nation The student chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management was recognized as one of the top 10 Outstanding Student Chapters in the nation for 2011-2012 for the second consecutive year. This award recognizes SHRM student chapters whose programs, activities and levels of participation distinguish them from more than 475 student chapters. The SHRM chapter also received its second consecutive Superior Merit Award for excellence and achievement. SHRM chapter members accepted the award at the 64th Annual SHRM Conference and Exposition in Atlanta, Ga.
Holiday Art Sale Set The annual holiday art sale will be held from 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 30, in the Grand Gallery on the first floor of the Shearman Fine Arts Annex. The event, sponsored by the Student Art Association, will offer over 300 artworks produced during the past semester by students and faculty for sale. For more information, contact the McNeese Department of Visual Arts at 337.475.5060.
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College of Nursing Provides Community Outreach The College of Nursing provides numerous community outreach opportunities for its nursing students within the Lake area. Nursing students, under the supervision of nursing faculty, help provide free vaccinations through the college’s immunization clinic for children between the ages of six weeks and 18 on the first Tuesday of every month. Nursing students also volunteer their time at various health fairs that take place throughout the community, where they conduct blood tests, urine screenings, patient interviews and blood pressure measurements on those patients attending the fairs.
Accounting Students Volunteer Accounting students in the College of Business serve as interns during tax season for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program through United Way of Southwest Louisiana. These students provide free basic tax return preparation for eligible taxpayers on campus and at sites in Lake Charles, Sulphur and Jennings under the supervision of an accounting professor.
Student-Athletes Make the Grade McNeese student-athletes are making the grade in the classroom! During the spring 2012 semester, 175 of the 343 student-athletes made the Southland Conference Commissioner’s Honor Roll, including 19 with a 4.0 grade point average. Four McNeese student-athletes have a cumulative 4.0 GPA for their academic careers!
College of Business Names New Dean Dr. Musa Essayyad has been named dean of the McNeese College of Business. He was previously associate dean and professor of finance in the school of business at the University of Texas at Brownsville. He has degrees in accounting and behavioral studies and he received his doctorate in finance from the University of Alabama. Essayyad has held diverse academic, business and governmental positions both nationally and internationally. In academia, he has held endowed chair professorships and taught courses in corporate finance, investment management, international finance, and oil and gas finance. He has also attended executive training at Harvard University.
A Little Something More! More than 13,000 students have graduated from McNeese in the past 10 years. McNeese nursing graduates make up approximately 80 percent of all nurses working in Lake Charles and the five-parish area. Approximately one-third of all engineers working in the local petrochemical industry are McNeese graduates. More than 70 percent of the educators in Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron and Jefferson Davis parishes earned a degree from McNeese. McNeese offers four online baccalaureate degrees through the Center for Adult Learning in Louisiana (CALL) Program. Currently, students can enroll in criminal justice, sociology with a concentration in family and child studies, sociology or management programs. These degrees offer accelerated course work and the flexibility and convenience of online delivery. McNeese will soon launch a new online degree in organizational leadership that is a collaboration among the nine universities in the University of Louisiana System. 13
McNeese Graduates Take on the World What do a resident physician, a communication specialist, a teacher and a nurse have in common? They are all McNeese graduates who excelled in the classroom, received academic scholarships through the McNeese Foundation and were featured in past issues of PILLARS. Post-graduation, they continue to excel in the working world as ambassadors representing McNeese.
president. He also served as president of McNeese’s American Chemical Society and was involved with the Student Government Association, Future Business Leaders of America, Campus Affairs Committee and the Technology Advancement Student Committee. While a student at LSUSHSC, his leadership continued with his service as class vice president, president and student representative on the Medical Curriculum and Student Admissions Committees. Raphiel is currently living in Richmond, Va., while he completes a three-year internal medicine residency program at the Virginia Commonwealth University. When he completes his residency in summer 2015, Raphiel plans to return to the Lake Charles area to practice general internal medicine.
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Raphiel Heard, who was featured on the inaugural cover of PILLARS, is now Dr. Raphiel Heard. He graduated from McNeese in 2008 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biological science and with a Doctor of Medicine degree from Louisiana State University at Shreveport Health Sciences Center in May 2012. 1
Raphiel is a past recipient of the Dr. Charles D. “Chick” White Pre-Med Scholarship and the Dr. John Stevens Memorial Scholarship. “While nothing can truly prepare you for medical school, I believe that McNeese gave me a solid educational foundation,” said Raphiel. “The leadership positions I held at McNeese gave me the experiences I needed to be a leader in my medical school class.” During his time at McNeese, Raphiel reinvigorated the Pre-Medical and Pre-Dental Society and served as
Martina Malone received her Bachelor of Science degree in marketing in 2010 and is currently working at L’Auberge Casino Hotel Baton Rouge as a team member engagement specialist. The past C. Marshall Abadie Memorial Scholarship recipient worked as a sales representative after graduation, and like many new graduates, thought she would automatically land the perfect job. “Much to my surprise, I found that my dream job would not fall in my lap,” said Martina. “I learned that I had to work hard to make my desires become a reality.” Martina loves the fast-paced nature of the gaming industry and the challenges it presents because it allows her to push herself to levels she thought were impossible. She credits McNeese with helping her get to where she is today.
Martina Malone is a team member engagement specialist at L’Auberge Casino Hotel in Baton Rouge.
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Martina Malone May ‘09
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“My McNeese education provided a solid foundation for the basic principles I needed to succeed in the work force,” Martina stated. “It also taught me the true meaning of networking. I can’t stress enough how important it is to join organizations and participate in internships.” She met her current boss through an event she planned while president of McNeese’s American Marketing Association chapter. Martina’s future plans include obtaining both a master’s degree and a doctorate in business and becoming a college professor. Derrick Fourroux’s favorite nursing faculty were Dr. Lori Groves and Ginger Basone.
and G.W. Ford N TIES nt • Alma W. FOUNDATIO Boyett • Recipie Kimberly Diane
Former Cowboys quarterback and Josi Andrus Brady Memorial Scholarship in Football recipient Derrick Fourroux traded his football uniform for nursing scrubs. Derrick works at the Regional Medical Center of Acadiana in Lafayette as an ICU nurse and at the Moss Regional Hospital in Lake Charles critical care unit on an asneeded basis. He graduated from McNeese with a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing in 2010.
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teacher. “I en to third grade ng a pre-kindergart . I love teaching them road to becomi younger children Kimberly. Boyett is on the a connection with more complex problems,” said Kimberly Diane I have always had toward chose PK-3 because think even deeper e and pushing them to basics and then High School graduat ity as a Vidor (Texas) where she has lived ever since se State Univers Hall McNee ng Band Collette at into Marchi se Kimberly enrolled ity. She moved the Pride of McNee time constraints. from Lamar Univers d. Kimberly joined due to year Thailan transfer student past from this Pla, instrument roommate, putting away her along with her were limited. French horn before and played the rly’s career options cousins, four and firemen, Kimbe full of teachers sister, fiancé, seven include her family mom, d her Boyett family include With an extende in her family Kimberly Diane teachers in her and retired firemen a career as a Teachers and future and two uncles. Firemen cousins. While aunts uncles and two aunts, two great ther, two great d ng a teacher. father and grandfa had her eyes set on becomi s, students enrolle father, fiance’s rly Education Service on majors complete possibility, Kimbe g and Professional od educati fireman was a Students r of Student Teachinthe classroom. Early childho om instruction. or and directo enter hours of classro result Faye White, profess alified as they graduate and with 90 clock evaluations which t course r According to Dr. well-qu conduc r anothe are membe hours and od education majors learn to with 60 clock a university faculty od education in early childho entails one course the classroom instructor and the first time early childho which um is Both a practic “The practicum in the classroom. ing to Dr. White, teach 15 lessons and class grade. Accord on.” om management in the student’s t about classro me real world of educati was really hesitan t. The practicum has allowed maneuver in the weaknesses. “I now able to ed all the conten g strengths and examples, I am t learn teachin time but I deliver g. Based on these I didn’t waste helps the studen lessons so that The practicum t methods of teachin to structure the all have differen instructors who discipline. I wanted with and oms her e classro d to assist to be in multipl Kimberly. has been awarde my own,” said that Kimberly all ships style a scholar create one of several that is an al Scholarship is to have a family t. G.W. Ford Memori “Kimberly Boyett From “I feel very blessed a full-time studen The Alma W. and t. es. Kimberly said, e job while being college expens exceptional studen e having a full-tim room and board expenses.” her family with came into ally. I can’t imagin costs and the first time she supports me financi me with tuition had a plan. She definitely help se where my office she The scholarships l to attend McNee the and always Kimberly is thankfu can’t believe all is so responsible on time, on program. I offer a practicum, has ities educati in od program univers nce. This Since not all turns everything love the early childho I hands-on experie she said. is required. “I however, when ” es; field a lot gaining the school, the practicum excus in of no out out I get do. We are rly I will always as a teacher when things we get to think of Kimbe tary. d me for my career Nelson Elemen respectful definitely prepare classroom at A.A. remember how Kyle g in a first-grade od sweetheart, advisee or a g to her childho rly is student teachin she is. As an Currently, Kimbe McNeese in May 2010. A weddin soon after graduation. class she does e from student in my will take place ons major, on She will graduat questi ask se music educati not hesitate to ation, Parfait, a McNee
Kimberly Boyett Parfait with Annie Mouton at Brenda Hunter Head Start’s Monster Mash Math event.
Kimberly Boyett Parfait, a past recipient of the Alma W. and G.W. Ford Memorial Scholarship, graduated in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science degree in early childhood education. She has been teaching at Brenda Hunter Head Start for two years and has helped plan school-wide activities such as the annual Monster Mash Math event. explan or ask for further done with and this is always for me as the polite respect enthusiasm professor. Her r is as a future teache make a will refreshing. She r who will teache rful wonde to giving her be dedicated best every students her very certain, she is thing day. One prepared.” will always be Deborah M. King sor Profes iate Assoc Teacher Department of Education
FALL 2009 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 1
Derrick Fourroux May ‘10 A Leader by Example page 6
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One McNeese experience that stands out for her is the amount of hands-on classroom experience she received as part of her education. “The classroom experience was a huge advantage when it came time for me to have my own classroom,” explained Kimberly. “I was not at a complete loss and at least had an idea of how I wanted to organize my classroom and plan lessons.” She has come full circle with several McNeese students observing in her classroom over the past two years. “Knowing that McNeese is sending these students out into Head Start is great because it is a very real possibility that it may be where they teach.” Kimberly’s future plans include teaching either kindergarten or first grade and possibly writing a children’s book using photography.
From the beginning of his nursing career, Derrick chose to work in the intensive care unit. “As an ICU nurse, I take care of very sick people,” said Derrick. “From one night to the next I can see the patient’s progress. It’s a good feeling knowing I’m helping a person recover.”
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Had Derrick not received a scholarship, his career would have likely gone down the military path. “The scholarships I received helped me focus on my studies so that I didn’t have to work full time, go to school and play football,” he stated. He credits McNeese’s nursing program for his excellent training. “The nursing program at McNeese definitely prepared me for the working world. I knew what I was doing when the time came to transition from student to professional nurse.” These successful McNeese graduates are just four examples of how giving to the McNeese Foundation provides an excellent return on your investment.
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The Oak Tree A Southern Symbol of Strength Southwest Louisiana without trees would be like the Sahara Desert without sand – unimaginable.
Trees are one of the oldest forms of life on Earth and are necessary for man’s survival, taking carbon dioxide from the air and replacing it with lifesustaining oxygen. According to Steve Nix, a professional forester, “A mature leafy tree produces as much oxygen in a season as 10 people inhale in a year.” Trees cool the air, filter the rain, stabilize the soil and shade the ground. Beholding their sheer beauty may help to lower stress and induce calm. If those benefits are not enough to warrant their value, trees are great for climbing, building tree houses and playing hide-and-seek. Lake Charles Junior College, as McNeese State University was first called, was “planted” in 1939 on an 86-acre tract of land – the original site of the Parish Poor Farm. Once the buildings of F.G. Bulber Auditorium, the Ward Arena and Kaufman Hall were erected, live oak trees were planted around them. Robert W. Alexander, McNeese’s superintendent of building and grounds in the early 1940s, developed a long-range landscaping plan which would include the planting of azaleas, camellia japonicas, crepe myrtles, red bud trees and other flowering shrubs. According to a March 3, 1943, American Press article, “With its completion, the campus of John McNeese Junior College will undoubtedly be one of the most beautiful in this part of the country.”
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Over the years, through the combined efforts of grounds personnel, various campus organizations and individual efforts, more trees have been added.
The Marshall-Squires Oak, planted next to the Shearman Fine Arts building in 1965, was named in memory of Dr. George R. Marshall and Dr. Ralph Squires. Dr. Marshall was a professor of music at McNeese from 1954-1965 as well as conductor for the Lake Charles Civic Symphony. Dr. Squires was the Dean of the Department of Fine Arts from 1956-1962 and also the namesake for the Ralph Squires Recital Hall in the Shearman Fine Arts Center. The tree was transplanted from a sprout in Dr. Marshall’s yard that had originally started out as an acorn in Dr. Squire’s yard. In 1978-1979, the Inter-Fraternity Council raised funds to plant 58 water oak trees across campus. To encourage the continued nurturing and care of the campus’ stately oaks, the Endow an Oak program began. To date, 60 trees have been “adopted.” An oak may be endowed with a contribution of $1,000, a Protector Endowment, or $2,500, a Benefactor Endowment, depending on its size and location. The endowment provides a permanent source of funds for the tree’s lifetime care, and if necessary, its replacement. The funds cover periodic pruning, mulching and fertilizing, and treatment for disease or damage caused by construction projects, parking or foot traffic. Donors may endow an oak as a tangible tribute to recognize or memorialize a family member or friend or to pay tribute to an organization or company. A customized plaque recognizing the gift is placed near the tree’s base. If you are interested in endowing an oak tree, contact the McNeese Foundation at 337.475.5588.
Both Bradley Robichaux, 2012 May graduate, left, and Dr. Nikos Kiritsis, dean of the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology, learned first-hand about ethical issues in education while attending the NCEA.
Ethics in Education Imagine spending the night in cadet barracks situated on the campus of the oldest continuously occupied military post in America – the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y.
Over the last four years, McNeese students have had just such an opportunity by attending the National Conference on Ethics in America hosted by the U.S. Military Academy.
Erin-Beth Hanks, a December 2008 graduate and current master’s degree student, with other participants at the National Conference on Ethics in America hosted by the U.S. Military Academy. The purpose of the NCEA is to raise consciousness of ethical issues undergraduate students may face while in college and during their professional careers. Erin-Beth Hanks, a December 2008 general studies graduate and current master’s degree student in curriculum and instruction, experienced this first hand. “Being at West Point is like being in another world - a very respectful, reverent, clean, calm and orderly world. Staying on campus in a dorm with one other cadet was eye-
opening. As a senior cadet, she was up way before me in the morning and in bed way after me at night and, as a cross-country runner, she still found time to train in 30-degree weather. The dorms were far from a Holiday Inn with decent but not luxurious beds, shared shower rooms and cold floors. There were few decorations and very little of that ‘warm, cozy’ feeling,” reminisced Erin-Beth.
The three-day conference features decorated military personnel, industry leaders and experts in the field of ethics. Bradley Robichaux, a May 2012 English and mass communication graduate, said, “Much of the conference took place in breakout sessions with our assigned group. Discussions didn’t shy away from controversial issues. We discussed topics such as end-of-life issues, human trafficking, adopting foreignborn children and human drugtesting. Perhaps the most refreshing take-home from the NCEA was that despite often widely diverging viewpoints and passionate debates, we always ended the day as friends. Maybe it was something about the theme of ethics that encouraged people to recognize that debates need not be taken personally.” According to Dr. Nikos Kiritsis, dean of the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology and 2011 NCEA McNeese faculty delegate, “Listening to hundreds of college students from across the nation express their ideas, beliefs, concerns and values about ethics was remarkable. The organization of the program and dedication of the military cadets were impressive.
“Of historical note, West Point Military Academy happens to be home to the first engineering school in the country,” he added. McNeese is one of 95 universities and military academies that participate in the NCEA. Student representatives receive free registration and lodging, but airfare is an additional cost and faculty delegates must fund their own way. The H.C. Drew Endowment has been McNeese’s principle supporter in funding attendance at the NCEA conference. Matthew “Ross” Theriot, a May 2012 mass communication graduate, said, “It was interesting to see how the smallest things can create such a large ethical dilemma for individuals and companies. I gained insight into how to be conscious of ethical situations, how to prevent them and how to handle the crisis that may unfold as a result. Now, that I am attending graduate school in Chicago, I know that I will be immersed into a different culture, knowing that what I learned at the NCEA will carry over into my future,”
…Make us to choose the harder right instead of the easier wrong, and never to be content with a half truth when the whole can be won… Excerpt from the West Point Cadet17 Prayer
at the McNeese Bookstore
Cowboy fans can “Geaux Blue” with the latest trends in collegiate merchandise at the McNeese Bookstore. The bookstore is more than just a place to buy books, according to Sharamie Moore, bookstore director. “It offers something for everyone.” This includes the latest in name-brand fashion apparel for students, parents, children, alumni and Cowboy fans, along with classroom supplies, backpacks, glassware, sports equipment, jewelry, tailgate items, banners and flags, novelties, gloves and scarves, hats and caps, umbrellas, plush toys and children’s books, gift cards and fleur-de-lis décor. “We make a diligent effort to carry McNeese brand items for all ages and tastes,” said Moore. “Customer requests are heavily considered when we purchase our merchandise for each fiscal year. It is important to us to satisfy our customers by offering both unique and quality McNeese items. We have new clothing, gifts and game-day items arriving daily.” The bookstore has an item of the week featured on its Facebook page. “Also, check us out on Pinterest,” said Moore. Hours are 7:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Go online to mcneesecowboystore.com to check out the latest in Cowboy merchandise from the bookstore. For more information, call 337.475.5494.
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Pillars Staff EDITOR Marianne White Coordinator of Planned Giving and Donor Research mariannewhite@mcneese.edu
STAFF WRITER Jennifer Pitre Planned Giving and Donor Research Specialist jpitre2@mcneese.edu ART DIRECTION, DESIGN, PHOTOGRAPHY Anne Cobb Graphic Designer/Multimedia Specialist cobb@mcneese.edu
They say a picture is worth a thousand words. Tell us what YOU think this picture says! Send us your best caption for the chance to win a $25 gift certificate to the McNeese Bookstore.
Renee LeLeux Public Information Officer II rleleux@mcneese.edu
Submit your caption to Jennifer Pitre either by email at jpitre2@ mcneese.edu, by phone at 337.562.4191 or by mail: McNeese Foundation, Box 91989, Lake Charles, LA 70609. Please include your name, mailing address (if emailing or calling) and phone number with your caption.
Foundation Staff
Deadline for submissions is Nov. 26, and the winner will be announced Dec. 3. The picture and winning caption will be posted on the Foundation website’s news section, www.mcneesefoundation.org/news, on Facebook, www.facebook.com/McNeeseFoundation and in the spring 2013 issue of PILLARS.
Pam McGough Coordinator of Athletic Development pmcgough@mcneese.edu
Melissa Ellis Northcutt Director for University Advancement Operations and Special Events mnorthcutt@mcneese.edu Richard H. Reid Vice President for University Advancement/Executive Vice President, McNeese Foundation rreid@mcneese.edu
Shelley Shaw Administrative Specialist sshaw@mcneese.edu
Pam Tate Gift Management Specialist pamtate@mcneese.edu
Shanie Miller Administrative Assistant smiller2@mcneese.edu
Candace Townsend, Director of Public Relations, contributing writer/photographer
PILLARS is published by the McNeese Foundation to educate and inform the community of the role that the Foundation plays in support of McNeese State University. The name, PILLARS, was chosen to represent the importance of the Foundation’s support of McNeese as an institution of higher learning. We know that there is a story behind your loyal support and we would really like to hear it. Contact Marianne White at 337.562.4107 or mariannewhite@mcneese.edu.
Contact Information
McNeese Foundation Box 91989, Lake Charles, LA 70609 Phone 337.475.5588 Fax 337.475.5386 www.mcneesefoundation.org
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Nonprofit Org.
U.S. Postage Paid McNeese Foundation, Box 91989, Lake Charles, LA 70609
Permit No 336 Lake Charles, LA
Addressee XXXXX ST XXXXXXX,XX 55555
John McNeese Park Opening A park area located near the center of campus will be officially opened and named in honor of John McNeese during Homecoming Week. A statue of McNeese was placed there in 2010 and the area has been improved with new landscaping, seating areas and lighting. The University’s namesake was born on July 4, 1843, to Scottish immigrant parents near Baltimore, Md. After serving in the Union Army during the Civil War, he moved to Menard, Texas, and became a successful cattle grazer and mercantile businessman. In 1873, John McNeese decided to start a new life in what is now Calcasieu Parish after a failed cattle drive ended in Southwest Louisiana.
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He supported himself as a professor of penmanship and music and married the daughter of one of the area’s earliest settlers, William Bilbo. John and Susan moved to
Lake Charles where he studied law under Judge G. A. Fournet and later attended Tulane Law School. McNeese practiced law briefly, but his passion was education. He worked to establish the public school system and became the first superintendent of schools for Imperial Calcasieu. He served as superintendent from 1888 until his retirement in 1913, and he brought many innovations to the Imperial Calcasieu School System. He died in 1913 at the age of 70 and is buried in Oak Grove Cemetery in Lake Charles. John and Susan McNeese had nine children. The three remaining granddaughters and their families have been invited to the opening of the park and to serve as grand marshals in the Homecoming Parade. Statue by sculptor Janie Stine LaCroix