MONTEVALLO TODAY University of Montevallo Alumni Magazine • Fall 2016
PARTNERSHIPS AND OUTREACH INITIATIVE
Connects Community and Campus
MONTEVALLO TODAY University of Montevallo Alumni Magazine
From Calkins Hall
PUBLISHERS Dr. Rick Barth
President John W. Stewart III thanks Will Pearson, president and co-founder of Mental Floss for serving as the keynote speaker for the 2016 Spring Commencement.
Kira Thomas ’12 kthomas18@montevallo.edu EDITOR Tiffany Roskamp-Bunt ’00, MBA ’13 bunttr@montevallo.edu WRITER AND COPY EDITOR Reed Strength ’16 cstreng1@montevallo.edu ALUMNI EDITOR Dr. Tracy Payne Rockco ’94, M.Ed. ’98 paynet@montevallo.edu DESIGN EDITOR Julie Haggard PHOTOGRAPHERS Katie Compton ’18, Charissa Franklin ’15, Wendy Johnson ’17, Christopher Jones, Alyssa Luna ’14, Isaac Nunn ’15, Jasmyne Ray ’18, Michael Wade CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Rick Barth Wesley Hallman Kelli Holmes Cassie Popwell ’15 Lindsay Schluntz ALUMNI ASSOCIATION UMNAA President Laurl P. Self ’94 President-Elect Toni Leo ’80 Past-President/Parliamentarian Dr. Michael E. Malone ’69 Alumni Council Representative Melanie Poole ’86 Admissions Representative Greg Embry ’96, M.Ed. ’99 Faculty/Staff Representative Matt Walker ’02 SGA President Hunter Huie ’16 UMNAA Vice Presidents Warwick Woodall ’82, Megan E. Randolph ’06, Matthew Arnold ’93, Jalete Nelms ’90, Stephanie Shaw ’93, Keith Shoemaker ’98, Christopher Willis ’07 Members at Large Joanne Atchison ’69, Eddie C. Baker III ’04, Dr. Lewis Brooks ’88, Fred Crawford ’68, Tiffani Humphries ’98, Ann Kelly ’57, Patrick McDonald ’01, M.Ed. ’03, Jeannine McElroy '53, Dr. Terra Miller ’06, Diane Ray ’68, Cynthia Todd ’88, Dr. Susan Vaughn ’71, Cornelia Watts ’77, Virginia Young ’84 Ex-Officio Jeffrey Purvis ’02, Dr. Tracy Payne Rockco ’94, M.Ed. ’98, Dr. John W. Stewart III
Greetings from campus, The University of Montevallo is fortunate to be part of such a thriving community. Having an opportunity to work with different community partners advances Montevallo’s vision of offering an “honors college experience stressing community service and global awareness.” In this issue, we highlight Montevallo’s connection and service to our community. We broke ground in April on the addition and renovation to the Mass Communication building, now known as Strong Hall to honor the generosity of father and son Mike Strong ’72 and John Paul Strong ’02, who partnered on a unique, significant gift that will benefit students and faculty for years to come. This act of giving back demonstrates the attribute of service instilled in UM graduates. Also in this issue, we showcase a faculty member, a student, an alumna and a new program that embody UM’s commitment to the community. The outreach can further be seen in recent events hosted on campus. During the week of Founders’ Day, we hosted a symposium on race and law enforcement in response to recent events in our country. The event’s purpose was to inspire meaningful conversation in order to resolve tension and shed light on commonalities shared by all involved. The symposium panelists included Birmingham Mayor William Bell, Montgomery Mayor and UM Board Chair Todd Strange, Shelby County Sheriff John Samaniego, Rev. Arthur Price Jr. of the 16th Street Baptist Church and Nichelle Nix, the Governor’s director of Minority Affairs. Christopher Nanni, the president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham, served as moderator of the event. Our 120th Founders’ Day was a wonderful celebration of our seniors and the history of this institution. Dr. Leroy Nix ’03, UM Board of Trustee member and former UM SGA President, served as the keynote speaker offering words of wisdom to the seniors and other attendees. Among the awards given during the ceremony, Mel Robinson ’52 received the Mary Lou Elder Williams Alumna Loyalty Award. As we prepare for the upcoming semester, I encourage you all to start making plans for Homecoming 2017. This year’s theme is, “Home is Where the Bricks Are.” I hope to see you then!
facebook.com/goMontevallo facebook.com/UMalum
Dr. John W. Stewart III President
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On the Cover Among the seven camps the University offered in 2016, the Computer
Coding Camp gave children first-hand experience in computer programming and robotics. See page 14 for more information.
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contents DEPARTMENTS
14 10 13
4
Faculty Spotlight
5
Student Spotlight
6
Alumni Spotlight
8
Campus Events
10
Campus News
13
Athletics
18
Donor Spotlight
19
Campaign Update
20
Class Notes
27
Alumni Events
FEATURES 14
COLLABORATING WITH THE COMMUNITY
16
WHY THE CAMPAIGN MATTERS
UM’s Office of Partnerships and Outreach engages the community through mutually beneficial endeavors that support academic, economic and sociocultural well-being.
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Major reductions in state funding, inflation and costs of complying with federal regulations create an unsustainable model for small state universities. This makes UM’s priorities of the comprehensive campaign vital to the stability of the University.
Montevallo Today Vol. CVI, No. 3 Fall 2016 Montevallo Today (USPS 005432; ISSN 1052-3634) is published three times a years by the University of Montevallo, Alumni Affairs/University Relations, Reynolds Hall, Highland St., Montevallo, AL 35115. Periodicals postage paid at Montevallo, AL, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER, send address changes to Montevallo Today, Station 6215, P.O. Box 6000, Montevallo, AL 35115. To contact the Alumni Affairs Office, please call (205) 665-6215. Text, photographs and graphic images included in this publication may not be reproduced without written permission from the editor. The University of Montevallo is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution and prohibits unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, genetic information, disability or disabled veteran/Vietnam era veteran status in the University’s educational programs; admissions policies; faculty, staff and student employment policies; financial aid; or other school-administered programs and services.
FACULTY SPOTLIGHT
Environmental Studies Blooms Under Caplow WITH ONLY THREE YEARS TO TAKE ROOT on Montevallo’s brick streets, Dr. Susan Caplow, assistant professor of environmental studies, has already grown a healthy, flourishing program. Caplow came to UM directly after graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a Ph.D. in environment and ecology. She said she was struck by how open the job ad was. “As the first environmental studies position, they were really open to the particular strengths of whoever was going to apply,” she said. Now, three years later, Caplow has taken the sprout that was simply a student created environmental club and carefully nurtured it into a blooming environmental studies major, the only one of its kind in Alabama public higher education. She marks an important distinction between environmental studies and science: where the latter focuses on the technical side of ecology,
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the former is interested in the social, human side of the study. “From a theoretical perspective, sustainability includes social sustainability. The human community is a really important part of our sustainable future, so that alone makes it important to engage with people directly,” said Caplow. To the professor, this social education will give her students an edge in the job market upon graduation. “I want my students to not feel like they have to be in this particular profession because they got a degree in this particular major,” she said. “A liberal arts education is a versatile education.” Beyond academics, UM also boasts an organic community garden, sculptural bike racks, a hammock park and the state’s only city-wide bike-sharing initiative, ValloCycle. These programs are all part of the reason UM was recognized by the U.S. Department of Edu-
cation as a 2016 Green Ribbon School this past summer. Caplow took the trip to the acceptance ceremony in Washington D.C. along with one of her top students, junior Morgan Pennington. Now, Caplow said she plans to help maintain the progress UM has made and continue to cultivate the new environmental studies major. She said she’s always been struck by the sentiment that in sustainability and ecology, one has to be the change they want to see in the world. With her education and research work here at UM, Caplow hopes to plant the seeds of progress toward a healthier, better world. Inset: (from L to R) Billy Hughes, director of the physical plant; DeAnna Smith, former vice president for business affairs, now business instructor; Marissa Pang, president of the Environmental Club; Dr. Susan Caplow; Dr. Lee Rozelle, professor of English and Dr. Jill Wicknick, associate professor of biology are shown with the postsecondary sustainability award. Each played an important role in UM being named a Green Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
N
A Prescription for
SUCCESS
“...it’s not whether UM can get me there, it’s whether I can use UM and everything that it’s offering, which is everything I need, effectively and put in enough work to get where I want to go.” — NICK RIVERS, CLASS OF 2017
ick Rivers isn’t your average UM student. In his four years on campus, he’s been president of his fraternity, worked as a Montevallo Maven and now serves as the College of Arts & Sciences Senator for the Student Government Association (SGA). Despite his impressive range of extracurriculars, Rivers has remained focused on grades and achievements toward the goal that brought him to college in the first place: becoming a physician. By the end of his sophomore year, the biochem major could boast being published in the Journal of Integrative Cancer Therapy along with Dr. Heather Tinsley, associate professor of biology, and alumna Perrin Windham ’15. Rivers can also claim training that will make him stand out from other pre-med students: research experience at Harvard University. Dr. Richard Cummings, a UM alumnus of the class of 1974, annually accepts a qualified student from UM to serve as a summer research intern for his lab. Cummings recently moved his lab from Emory University to Harvard, making Rivers the first UM student to venture to Boston to work in the new environment. In all, the senior spent 10 weeks in the state-of-the-art facility. He sat in on morning meetings and collaborated with one of Cummings’ researchers on a project with the intent of discovering new antibodies. “I guess being immersed in an environment where everyone is at such a higher level than you, you just have to learn,” said Rivers. “You just pick up on things constantly, and everyone was great about teaching me and dumbing things down if I needed to learn.” Now back at UM, Rivers said that a few of the topics and themes he grasped in the lab have popped up in some of his classes. While he hasn’t decided if he wants to go into research or practice, he looks forward to improving others’ quality of life. “I love how being a doctor, I will be able to apply my love of science and everything I’ve ever learned to help people,” said Rivers. While his summer at Harvard was certainly eye-opening, Rivers said his four years spent on UM’s brick streets are irreplaceable. “Over the years, I’ve realized it’s not whether UM can get me there, it’s whether I can use UM and everything that it’s offering, which is everything I need, effectively and put in enough work to get where I want to go. That’s what it’s all about. It’s not whether this school or that school is better. UM really teaches you how to think as an individual,” said Rivers.
www.montevallo.edu/alumni | 5
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Q&A
with Kate Hayden ’06 6 | Montevallo Today
Tell us about your family. My husband, Patrick Hayden, and I are both from Pelham. We both attended the University of Montevallo for our undergraduate work and we are both chemists. We currently live in Chelsea, with our son, Wesley, who is three years old and constantly keeps us on our toes! What is your profession? I am an assistant professor of chemistry at Birmingham-Southern College. I currently teach biochemistry, medicinal chemistry and advanced biochemistry. In addition to my courses, I mentor students in their own research, and help to coordinate internship experiences within the sci-tech industry across the state. I am also a co-founder and director of research for Blondin Bioscience. Our focus at Blondin is on developing better diagnostics to help patients beat cancer. We are working on a blood test that oncologists can use after a patient starts treatment in order to better understand whether or not the treatment is working effectively. (If the treatment is not working effectively, both doctors and patients can make better decisions on how to get to the optimal treatment pathway faster.) This test will allow us to save precious time for patients, which could ultimately save their lives as well as save money by switching sooner from unnecessary treatments that are not effective.
Chemist Kate Hayden works to help patients beat cancer at Blondin Bioscience.
What made you choose this profession? By the time my father was diagnosed with brain cancer in 1997 following a seizure at work, his disease had progressed so rapidly that his prognosis was only two months to live. Following surgery and multiple rounds of radiation treatment, he managed to cling on for 17 months and passed shortly after my 16th birthday. At 20, I was diagnosed with very early stage cervical cancer, had a pretty routine and mild surgical procedure and have been cancer free since then. It was at that point that I realized the difference between my dad losing his battle to cancer and me surviving was because we are able to routinely screen for cervical cancer in order to catch mine in its earliest stages. I think that was when I decided that I wanted to get into cancer research, specifically diagnostics. In my opinion, the only cure to cancer is early detection, and I make it a personal mission to ensure anyone around me takes advantage of the few routine cancer screenings we have available. The revelation that I wanted to teach at the college level came much later in life while I was at UAB working on my Ph.D. During that time, we were required to teach undergraduate lab courses as part of our appointment to the school. It was through these experiences I discovered that not only did I have a passion to
help young adults further their own knowledge and skill set, but that I really enjoyed teaching. I also find the process of learning and the research behind how students process, learn and apply knowledge to create new and innovative solutions to be really fascinating. How did Montevallo affect your career path? My undergraduate education at Montevallo was pivotal in my career. Not only did it provide me with a diverse foundation of knowledge for which a liberal arts education affords, but it also equipped me with the tools and skills I needed to grow as a lifelong learner. In addition to the challenging and rich classroom experiences, my undergraduate research experiences with both Dr. Mike Hardig and Dr. Cynthia Tidwell revealed my desire and aptitude for scientific research. Both were very different projects; however, both demonstrated clearly to me that in order to come up with creative solutions to our existing problems, a scientist must draw upon an extensive set of critical thinking skills and strategies, and must utilize a broad array of diverse perspectives. I found that aspect of research fascinating. What is the most significant award/honor you have received? Because I had to pay my own way through college with no family support, the Freshman Leadership Scholarship from UM was by far the most significant award/honor I could have received. Without it, I would not have been able to afford such a high-quality undergraduate education. What is the best advice you have received? Not to focus on the result of a project, but on the process. As scientists, if we were to only fixate on a perfect end result, then we may miss some really interesting insight unveiled by the research process itself. What is your favorite Montevallo memory? I think it is a toss-up between working in the swamp during my work with Dr. Hardig, or traveling to my first professional conference to present my work with Dr. Tidwell. Both experiences allowed me to bridge both the creative and scientific aspects of my educational background. And who doesn’t like to explore Ebenezer Swamp during the summer months?
For more, visit
www.montevallo.edu/montevallo-today
www.montevallo.edu/alumni | 7
CAMPUS EVENTS
UM Celebrates 120th Founders’ Day
The University of Montevallo celebrated the 120th year of its founding on Oct. 13. UM was founded on Oct. 12, 1896, as Alabama Girls’ Industrial School and has since grown into the state’s premiere public liberal arts institution. The theme of this year’s Founders’ Day was “Truth and Honor Crown Thy Name,” a reference to the last line in the University’s Alma Mater. The annual ceremony began at 11 a.m. as UM faculty, clad in their processional regalia, lead graduating seniors into Palmer Hall. For seniors, Founders’ Day marks their first opportunity to officially don their black graduation robes. Speaker and Surprise Guest President John W. Stewart III welcomed
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everyone as the ceremony officially began. He also introduced two surprise guests from Japan. Takara Fuji and his wife, Kieko, were visiting campus to learn more about Hiroko Oikawa, Fuji’s mother. Oikawa was a 1953 graduate of the University who passed away when her son was a young child. Fuji was attempting to retrace Hiroko’s steps in life and used the Milner Archives and Special Collections of Carmichael Library to learn about her college years.
Next, Stewart announced the four students who had managed to find the University crook. As part of the Founders’ Day tradition dating back to the 1920s, every year a wooden crook is hidden in a secret spot somewhere on the UM campus. Clues to the crook’s location are distributed in the days leading up to Founders’ Day. This year, the combined sleuthing prowess of students Spencer Anglin, Hallie Hooten, Shelby Hull and Amber James led them to
Opposite page, top: Trustee Leroy Nix ’03 delivers the keynote speech from the Palmer Stage. “You can try to think through this thing called life, or you can do the things you enjoy and see where that takes you,” he told the audience; left: (from L to R) Spencer Anglin, Shelby Hull, Hallie Hooten and Amber James pose next to Puryear House, this year’s location of the elusive crook; right: Founders’ Day award recipients (front row) Dr. Sally Hardig, Dr. Heather Tinsley, Mel Robinson ’52, (back row) Dr. Lynn Faulkner, Dr. Ruth Truss ’82 and DeAnna Smith ’99 with President Stewart outside of Palmer. This page, top left: Trustee Libby Queen ’59 and Provost Dr. Suzanne Ozment at the UMNAA awards dinner; top right: Montevallo Mayor Hollie Cost (center) toasts Dr. Stewart and his wife, Cindi, during the Flowerhill open house; bottom: Takara and Kieko Fuji with Mel Robinson after the Founders’ Day ceremony.
locate the staff near Puryear House. The house, constructed the same year as the University’s founding, is named for Sarah Puryear who taught English at the University for 37 years. Stewart then introduced this year’s keynote speaker, newly appointed UM Board of Trustee, Dr. Leroy Nix. In 2003, Nix graduated from UM with a degree in political science. After serving as a legal aid to U.S. Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) for three years, Nix earned his doctorate and, in 2009, began working for Alabama Power as the manager of corporate and constituent affairs. Nix spoke humorously on his trials and tribulations as a student at UM. He encouraged the gathered senior class to sometimes allow life to drag them where it pleased. “You can try to think your way through this thing called life, or you can do the things you enjoy and see where that takes you,” he said, citing personal examples where the approach lead to success. University & Alumni Awards Several faculty and staff were recognized for
their contributions in helping to maintain the University’s quality of education. • 2016 University Scholar: Dr. Heather Tinsley, assistant professor of biology • Faculty Service Award: Dr. Ruth Truss, professor of history and departmental chair • Academic Advising Award: Dr. Sally Bennett Hardig, associate professor of communication studies
A Time to Celebrate After the ceremony’s end, Founders’ Day guests, participants and family stood on the brick steps of Palmer Auditorium to exchange congrats and pose for pictures. The day concluded with a luncheon in Anna Irvin Dining Hall followed by an open house reception at Flowerhill, hosted by Stewart and his wife, Cindi, to laugh, relax and celebrate the University’s continued success.
• Adjunct Faculty Teaching Award: Dr. Lynn Faulkner, adjunct instructor of music • Outstanding Staff Service Award: DeAnna Smith, instructor of business (former VP for Business Affairs) • Outstanding Commitment to Teaching Award: Dr. Sally Bennett Hardig, associate professor of communication studies • Mary Lou Elder Williams Alumna Loyalty Award: Mel Dorrough Robinson ’52
www.montevallo.edu/alumni | 9
CAMPUS NEWS
U.S. News & World Report Ranking The University of Montevallo achieved high rankings among other southern universities in U.S. News & World Report’s 2017 rankings of the best colleges in the country. The publication named UM the 13th Best Public University in the South in its division, moving up two spots from last year’s rankings. It was again the 37th Best Regional University in the South, which makes it the highest ranked public regional-level university in the state. UM’s military friendly campus also designated it the 26th Best College for Veterans. “Montevallo continues to maintain our academic integrity, even in the face of formidable competition. This recognition is reflective of our commitment to the wonderful students we serve,” said President Stewart.
Carnival for a Cure: Raising Funds for Cancer Research
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Briefs
NEW LIBRARY DIRECTOR
Dr. Charlotte E. Ford is the new director of Carmichael Library. Ford comes to UM after leaving the director position at Birmingham-Southern’s library. She has extensive experience, even working as a reference librarian at the Pontifical Xavierian University in Colombia.
NEW VICE PRESIDENT
Mary Ellen Heuton is the new vice president for Business Affairs and treasurer for UM. Heuton previously served as senior vice president/chief financial officer at Marshall University in West Virginia. “I am thrilled to be joining the team at UM,” said Heuton. “I’m eager to build on the great work the business staff has done in maintaining the financial health of the University.” Heuton replaces DeAnna Smith who held the position for the previous seven years. Smith stepped down to transition into the role of an accounting instructor in UM’s Stephens College of Business.
n Oct. 7, UM’s Student Government Association hosted the third annual Carnival for a Cure on Main Quad. Each year, the proceeds from the event are donated to the American Cancer Society. At the event, students and Montevallo community members purchase tickets for use at booths hosted by UM’s many student organizations. SGA President Hunter Huie said the group’s goal was to match the $800 in donations achieved during the event’s debut in 2014. With that goal in mind, Huie and SGA Director of Student Diversity and Outreach Lily Elmore pitched the event to the current 90 student organizations. Their diligence paid off. This year, 22 student organizations, including representatives from UM’s Greek organizations, student publications and both Purple and Gold sides, hosted booths. Before the event, they had raised $500 in donations from entry fees and voluntary donations. By the event’s end, SGA raised an additional $600 in ticket sales alone, a feat considering each ticket costs only 10 cents each. With more than $1,000 raised for cancer research, Huie said he’s incredibly proud of the SGA volunteers and the efforts of the student body as a whole. “It’s extremely gratifying to see a lot of careful planning come together and to see the community so engaged with the University,” said Huie. For next year, the SGA hopes to include booths by local businesses.
For more UM news, visit www.montevallo.edu/news
10 | Montevallo Today
TRUST AND COMMUNICATION Among Topics Discussed During UM Race & Law Enforcement Symposium
From L to R: Shelby County Sheriff John Samaniego, Director of Minority Affairs for Governor Robert Bentley’s Office Nichelle Nix, Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange, Birmingham Mayor William Bell, 16th Street Baptist Church Rev. Arthur Price Jr. and panel moderator Christopher Nanni discuss topics on the LeBaron stage.
IT WAS A NIGHT OF POSSIBLE PEACE. Community and state leaders gathered on the small stage of LeBaron Recital Hall facing a crowd of more than 250. The venue was filled to capacity, with additional audience members spilling into the aisles and stairs. The numerous racial conflicts across the country this summer inspired President Stewart and UM trustees Brian Hamilton and Dr. Leroy Nix to hold a symposium on the relationship between minority communities and law enforcement. These included the deaths of unarmed African American men Philando Castile and Alton Sterling, as well as the controversial shooting in Dallas that killed five police officers. The panelists of the night were Birmingham Mayor William Bell, Director of Minority Affairs for Governor Robert Bentley’s Office Nichelle Nix, Rev. Arthur Price Jr. of the 16th Street Baptist Church, Shelby County Sheriff John Samaniego and Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange. The five panelists were tasked with talking through the strained relationship between law enforcement and minorities in America.
Christopher Nanni, the president and CEO of Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham, served as moderator of the event. Throughout the evening, Nanni asked the panelists prepared questions concerning the influence of Black Lives Matter, implicit bias and solutions toward peace. “It is through listening and understanding one another’s perspective that we can engage in meaningful dialogue,” said Nanni. “I hope that we can begin this process, or at least understand the process, as a result of the panel discussion.” Additionally, McNair Scholar Charmella Williams asked questions submitted by the UM student body. A common theme throughout the discussion was the subject of trust. Each panelist described that trust is what bridges the dangerous gap of miscommunication between law enforcement and minority communities. Samaniego stated it’s the role of police officers to have already obtained the trust of the community before a controversial situation ever takes place.
Bell and Price both recounted personal stories of experiencing and dealing with bias first hand. However, they made it clear that though the justice system can work against minorities, officers also have an extremely demanding job. They also denounced the media’s role in perpetuating a false culture of constant violence. “When you look at news outlets, you may think crime is running rampant,” said Bell. “You may think that people are being killed everywhere and that’s simply not the case.” The crowd stayed silent as the conversation took place, listening intently, some with notepads in their hands. At the event’s end, Nanni provided four tips to continue the conversation beyond the walls of LeBaron. These tips were to create meaningful relationships, recognize privilege, breach personal comfort zones and move beyond tolerance. As the event concluded, audience members made their way to the stage to greet the night’s guests with handshakes after an evening full of partnership and conversation.
www.montevallo.edu/alumni | 11
CAMPUS NEWS
Top left: Dr. Andrea Eckelman holds the oar after a hard fought victory in the 19th annual Life Raft Debate; top right: Dr. Erin “Harley Quinn” Chandler, Dr. Andrea Eckelman, Kyle Moore, Dr. Scott Varagona and Carey Heatherly all fought for the last space on the raft; below: Dr. Kristen Gilbert certifies the votes with the assistance of Cheryl Patton and Dr. Michael Patton.
Political Science Trounces Competition in 19th Annual Life Raft Debate
I
t was a scenario familiar to fans of UM’s annual battle of wits and wisdom. The free world has collapsed. Civilization mostly swallowed by the ocean. Its last remnants left floating on a tiny raft with limited space. The scattered crowd of UM students, employees and community members acted as judges to four potential raft mates. University Archivist Carey Heatherly, Assistant Professor of English Dr. Erin “Harley Quinn” Chandler, tech savvy Assistant Professor of Theatre Kyle Moore and new to campus Assistant Professor of Political Science Dr. Andrea Eckelman were all tasked with arguing their case for taking the last space on this floating vessel of humanity. Goading them all was Dr. Scott Varagona, the devil’s advocate and moderator. Last year, Varagona convinced the crowd to drown all five unworthy panelists rather than heed their academic advice. Equipped with a slideshow illustrating the raft’s plight, he aimed to use his devilish charm to convince the audience that submerging the
12 | Montevallo Today
panelists in the name of self-reliance was again the best tactic. Each panelist attempted to keep their head above water by reasoning the essential merit and value of their academic disciplines. Heatherly argued for the inherent value of preserved history, and how none of the other panelists could have studied their disciplines without the use of proper preservation techniques. Chandler — dressed as the baseball bat-wielding vixen Harley Quinn — attempted to assert for the value of literature. “These guys can give you the means to live,” she said of the competition. “I can give your life meaning.” While Moore flew under the velvet curtain of theatre, he fought more with his skills as a technical theater jack-of-all-trades. He slyly counted through a checklist of basic carpentry, electrical and plumbing skills that he claimed his opponents could not. Last to fight for a spot was newcomer Eckelman. She quickly distanced herself from the mudslinging, gerrymandering tactics of the recent political election. Instead, she poised proper political science as the antidote to the world’s catastrophic conflict. She also boasted a laundry list of other useful skills, including zombie survival knowledge and amateur cooking. As each candidate attempted to bring down the others with quips and comebacks, Varagona would emerge between rounds to poke holes in his opponents’ arguments with his plastic pitchfork.
When the audience votes rolled in, Eckelman emerged from the ocean with her head held high and the coveted oar even higher. “My win was incredibly unexpected. Since this is my first year at Montevallo and not many students know me, I fully expected to lose,” said Eckelman. “The experience was amazing. It was so fun thinking about why I went into political science in the first place, and defending that to my colleagues.” While Eckelman's campaign was successful this year, the world will be forced to consider its options again in Palmer Auditorium next year.
ATHLETICS
UM Student Athletes Score Above and Beyond Community Service Hours Field of A
ngels, So
ftball
UM Breaks Academic Record of Student Athletes on PBC Honor Roll
seball
ngels, Ba
Field of A
UM’s athletes not only represent purple and gold pride on their respective fields and courts, they also demonstrate the same amount of heart and dedication to their local community. Every year, each UM athletic team is required to complete a set amount of community service hours. As of October, 11 of UM’s 16 teams have far surpassed their goals. Field of Angels, Softball Throughout the year, players take time out of their athletic, academic and social schedules to complete these hours. Their coaches are also expected to volunteer, though the focus of these required hours goes to the students. The women of UM’s lacrosse team were tasked with completing 210 hours of community service. In 10 months time, they’ve gone well beyond that by claiming 533.5 total achieved hours, equaling 254 percent of their total goal. It’s a similar story with the baseball, softball, volleyball, tennis, men’s cross county, women’s golf and men’s and women’s soccer and basketball teams. So far, all 16 teams have completed more than 4,000 hours of community service. These activities include everything from serving concessions and being ball keepers during other teams’ games to participating in youth fitness camps and community cleanups, like the Big Event. This year’s Freshman Move-In Day saw nearly 100 athletes help incoming students move into their new campus home. While UM’s student athletes often serve as the fierce Fighting Falcons, their enormous generosity is an example of what anyone who has spent time on the brick streets knows: family comes first.
Thanks to the perseverance and hard work normally reserved for fields, courts and stadiums, there are a record number of Fighting Falcon student athletes on the Peach Belt Conference’s 2015-2016 Presidential Honor Roll. The Honor Roll annually recognizes athletes with a grade point average of 3.0 or higher for the academic year among the 14 institutions that make up the Peach Belt. The honorees are then divided into four categories: Presidential (3.0-3.24), Bronze (3.25-3.49), Silver (3.50-3.74) and Gold (3.75-4.0). This year, 206 UM student athletes are featured on the list, 48 more than last year. UM’s numbers on the Honor Roll have tripled from a modest 65 honorees the year it joined the Peach Belt in 2009. The Women’s Tennis team’s hard swinging matched their study games; all 10 of the team’s players achieved Honor Roll status. Further, more than 90 percent of the women’s cross country and soccer teams and more than 80 percent of the women’s golf and volleyball teams were named as Honor Roll members. “Montevallo student athletes had an incredible year in the classroom,” said Athletic Director Mark Richard. “Each week our student athletes put many hours into their athletics, so to continue to work hard and excel in the classroom and post these excellent GPAs is a tribute to them. We are very proud of what they have accomplished.”
www.montevallo.edu/alumni | 13
Collaborating with the Community In November 2015, the University created the Office of Partnerships and Outreach to engage the community through mutually beneficial partnerships that support academic, economic and sociocultural well-being, both in the surrounding community and statewide. The Office of Partnerships and Outreach is a division of Academic Affairs and is directed by Kelli J. Holmes. “This is an exciting time to be at the University,” stated Holmes. “The creation of this department will serve as a way to work diligently on providing stewardship to our current community partners, cultivate new partnerships, as well as strengthen collaborations and communication on campus.” Holmes comes to UM from UAB where she most recently served as the director of employer outreach. Holmes has more than 15 years of broad-based experience in corporate communications with an additional six years of fund development knowledge.
CAMPS
One of the responsibilities for this new office is to create and implement academic camps. In 2016, the Office of Partnerships and Outreach successfully coordinated seven academic camps, including the creation of two new camps: ACT Prep and Computer Coding. Both camps offered two sessions in order to meet the high demand of participants. These camps brought more than 200 children ages 10-18 onto the beautiful UM campus.
NEW AND EXPANDED PARTNERSHIPS
In September 2016, the Office of Partnerships and Outreach formed a collaboration with Shelby County Schools’ College and Career Center to educate 12th grade students on how to better understand the basics of business, soft skills and secondary education options. One Friday per month, volunteers from UM visit the CCC campus to provide instruction to more than 140 students.
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GEAR UP ALABAMA
Partnerships and Outreach recently expanded UM’s current relationship with GEAR UP Alabama through a new program called University of Montevallo DISCOVER. GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) is a competitive grant program of the U.S. Department of Education. Its mission is to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education by providing state and local community-education partnerships with six-to-seven year grants in order to offer support services to high-poverty middle and high schools. The purpose of the UM DISCOVER program is to educate GEAR UP Alabama students on how to navigate their high school years in order to be better prepared for applying, being accepted and attending college. The DISCOVER program is a four-year program beginning in the fall of 9th grade and ending in the spring of 12th grade. One weekday during each semester (fall and spring only), students participating in the DISCOVER program arrive on the UM campus at 10 a.m. and depart at 1 p.m. Students participate in a morning session, enjoy provided lunch and then attend an afternoon session. Each session is specific in providing grade appropriate information as well as giving the students a glimpse into life on a college campus.
UNIVERSITY OUTREACH ■■
Worked with the UM College of Education to establish referral sources and launch the first on-campus Community Counseling Clinic
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Aided in implementing a UM professional clothing drive for students
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Scheduled UM faculty and staff as community event guest speakers
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Created partnership with ABC 33/40 for monthly UM segment
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Assisted UM Service Learning with introductions to community agencies
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Partnered with Montevallo Middle School to offer Chess Camp on UM’s campus
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Created a new internship program with the Shelby County Community Corrections Department
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Assisted UM sponsored programs with foundation funding opportunities
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Partnered with the Shelby County Schools Essential Pathway Programs
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Collaborated with the College of Fine Arts in reviving its partnership with Alabama School of Fine Arts
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Promoted UM resources such as Ebenezer Swamp, the James Wylie Shepherd Observatory and the Organic Community Gardens
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Collaborated with the Montevallo Artwalk planning committee to recruit food vendors and publicize the event in the area
PROFESSIONAL CLOTHING DRIVE
FOOD TRUCK THURSDAYS
In an effort to bring Montevallo community members to campus while providing additional dining variety to UM faculty, staff and students, the Office of Partnerships and Outreach created Food Truck Thursdays. A different food truck sets up on Brooke Quad every Thursday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This program also supports University Relations’ efforts to increase social media participation. In order for people to find out which food truck is visiting, they must follow UM’s social media pages for the exclusive announcement.
GHOST
WALK
Any organization or agency can contact Kelli Holmes to find out how the University and its programs can collaborate to benefit both partners. For more information, email kholmes4@montevallo.edu.
GHOST WALK
Continuing old traditions, the Office of Partnerships and Outreach, in collaboration with The Alabamian, hosted Ghost Walk on Saturday, Oct. 29. This family-friendly walking ghost tour provided more than 600 patrons the opportunity to experience firsthand the rich history of hauntings at the University. From the ghost of Condi Cunningham in Main Hall to the spirit of Edmund King looking for his buried gold, this event delivered true tales from the grave, including a stop at King Cemetery. Ghost Walk offered the perfect compliment to the already established Montevallo Art Stalk (Montevallo’s collaborative Artwalk held in October) which was held earlier the same day. M
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Why the Campaign
Matters BY DR. RICHARD BARTH, VP FOR ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT
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Last summer, as the first orientation for Fall 2015 freshmen was underway, I was standing outside Palmer Hall speaking with President Stewart and Dr. Tammi Dahle, the University’s dean of students. While we were talking, a young woman and her guardian attending the orientation program left Palmer Hall and started walking away. President Stewart quickly noticed the two women and proceeded to ask them if something was wrong. It turned out that the student, Sara, and her guardian had realized they could not afford for Sara to attend the University and decided to leave. Fortunately, due to President Stewart’s quick action, we were able to put a scholarship package together that allowed Sara to move forward with her studies at UM. Sadly, Sara’s situation is becoming more common and each year, we are seeing more and more families in this situation. For this reason, the past eight years have been challenging times for families in the state attempting to send their children to college. It has also been a challenging time for those of us who work in higher education. While a college degree is still clearly the best path to success for most people, the criticism of higher education, and those of us who work in higher education, is at a level unseen in recent memory. Of the criticisms now being leveled, affordability and the amount of loan debt students acquire while in school are the most common areas of concern. This is understandable considering the cost of in-state tuition across the country has increased an average of 30 percent since the 2007-2008 academic year. While the media has provided countless stories on the reasons for the rising cost of higher education, the main issue for public universities in the state of Alabama is the decline in state funding. The inflation adjusted change in spending per student in Alabama since 2008 is just under 37 percent. The only states that have cut funding to higher education more than Alabama during this period are Arizona, Louisiana and South Carolina. When funding is cut at this level, the impacted universities have very few options: reduce costs by cutting academic and student support programs, rely on more parttime faculty or increase the cost of tuition. The University has made a conscious choice of not cutting academic and student support programs, as we feel these programs are critical to our mission and to our success. We have also chosen to not follow the lead of many of our sister institutions across the country in hiring significantly higher numbers of part-time faculty. We remain committed to hiring fulltime, tenure-track faculty whenever possible. We believe that what separates the University
of Montevallo from other institutions is the strength of our faculty and the relationships between our students and our faculty. This has left UM with very few options in addressing the devastating reduction in state support and places the University in the position of having to raise tuition.
30%
increase in the cost of in-state tuition across the country
37%
decline in state spending per student The state is spending
$4,500 less per student
On average, tuition has increased only
$3,500
Since 2008.
While the University of Montevallo and other public universities in the state have been forced to increase tuition for the past several years, what is rarely mentioned is the fact that our public institutions have not raised tuition at the same level of per-student funding that they have been cut by the state.
According to a report by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, the state of Alabama has cut per-student allocations since 2008 at an adjusted-for-inflation dollar amount of close to $4,500 per student. However, the average amount institutions have increased tuition during the same period on an inflation-adjusted basis is approximately $3,500. In other words, UM and other Alabama public universities have not increased tuition to the same magnitude that state funding has been cut. At the same time, the increasing cost of complying with federal legislation, the growing cost of healthcare and the University’s commitment to attract and retain the best faculty and staff have all contributed to the growing cost of running the University. Needless to say, this is an unsustainable model and will lead to more families not being able to afford to send their sons and daughters to college. This is where we need your help. What I did not mention about Sara’s situation earlier was that the scholarship package that kept Sara in school here at UM was funded by alumni donors and other supporters of the University. Sara finished her freshman year with a 3.56 GPA and absolutely loves Montevallo. Without the support of alumni like you, Sara would not be here in college today. The situation is much more serious, however, than just an individual student example like Sara’s. As the state prepares for a very difficult budget year in 2016-2017, there is a good possibility that funding to higher education will be cut once again. In the face of future state cuts, the only way we can keep the University affordable for most families in Alabama is through the success of The Campaign for the University of Montevallo: It’s About Family. The primary focus of the campaign is scholarships for the reasons outlined above. If the campaign succeeds, the University will succeed. If the campaign succeeds, we can keep the University accessible to the families of Alabama. This is truly a time where you can make a difference in the life of so many prospective students, and make a difference in the success of the University of Montevallo. I ask that you consider how much a college degree has made a difference in your life, look back on your experiences at UM and remember the lifelong friendships and connections you made. Do not let a prospective member of our family miss out on these opportunities simply because the cost of tuition is out of reach. Be a part of extending a helping hand to shape the future of students like Sara who truly want to be part of the Montevallo family. After all, it’s about family and family steps up in times of need. M Source: Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, cbpp.org.
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DONOR SPOTLIGHT
“What I Needed Then, They Still Need Now” A LIFE IMPACTED BY UM SCHOLARSHIPS IS GIVING BACK THROUGH ESTATE PLANNING BY LINDSAY SCHLUNTZ
“My story is a lot like many other students’ stories at Montevallo — I was bright, but poor.” This is where Dr. Jo Ann Rayfield ’62 — or Jo, as her friends call her — began, as she shared her heart for financially investing in the University through her estate planning. This planned giving allows individuals to designate funds for UM projects in wills, life insurance and other estate gifts. Hailing from Humble Beginnings Jo grew up in Springhill, Alabama, located on the western edge of Mobile. Born in 1941, she remembers living near the Port of Mobile during WWII. In the years after the war, Jo attended Murphy High School. “In high school, I just assumed I’d graduate and spend the rest of my life standing on my feet clerking in a Woolworth store, broke and bored.” Her face brightened as she continued. “Thankfully, I got a chance to earn a scholarship to Montevallo. It was like a miracle for my life!”. The Miracle of Montevallo Jo arrived at the University of Montevallo for her freshman year in 1959. “I can remember more than once, walking the beautiful campus between classes. I would just stop still for a minute and think, ‘I am so fortunate to be here!’.” She paused to gather her emotions. “It was truly amazing to me that, I who came from not much, would have the opportunity to be at Montevallo. I got to take classes from people who cared so much, and who wanted me to learn and who had high expectations of me.” Jo successfully fulfilled those high expectations, earning her undergraduate degree from UM in 1962 with a major in history and a minor in biology. She then earned both her master’s degree and Ph.D. in history at Vanderbilt University — all while on scholarship. She went on to teach Latin American History at Illinois State University for more than 30 years, and served as the Illinois State University archivist
18 | Montevallo Today
for 15 years. Jo has also done research and archival work in half a dozen different countries. Retired, she now serves those around her as an Episcopal Monastic Solitary in the Diocese of Georgia. Giving Credit Where it’s Due — UM Faculty Jo is quick to give credit to the caring UM faculty who went above and beyond to help her reach her potential. As a scholarship student, Jo was generally able to focus on her schoolwork without the distraction of financial worries. However, during the summer semesters when she didn’t have access to scholarships, she worked in the dining hall or worked other odd jobs around campus to pay for her expenses. “I remember Dr. Ethel Marshall. She taught my Latin American History class, and she hired me to help her staple newsletters together. She paid me in cash, so I’m pretty confident that it came straight out of her pocket. I think she knew I didn’t have any money at all,” Jo said with gratitude. Jo also told a story about when her professor led the class in dissecting a mammal to learn about circulatory and skeletal systems in comparative anatomy lab. It was an experience she never had before. “…But I apparently exhibited a great deal of enthusiasm during the first dissection, because the professor asked if I would like to dissect the one remaining animal to expose its nervous system — I hadn’t even thought about learning about that part, too!”, she chuckled. “But there were so many things like that where faculty members gave me an exciting opportunity to do something I would have never been able to do otherwise.” Investing Back in Montevallo It’s Montevallo experiences like these that cultivated Jo’s deep love of learning. They are also her motivations for now helping fund professor-
ships and giving financial gifts to the UM library and other programs at the University today. “I had faculty members who let me look over their shoulders at their research. One even guided me through replicating some of the processes that he was doing in his own research,” she said. “This is partly why I contribute money to the undergraduate research program. I like seeing UM faculty having the resources they need to help every student like me.” She likened the effect of UM on her life to a building project. “Your house can be bigger and will stay up longer if you’ve built it on a solid foundation. For me, Montevallo was just that, and it’s what Montevallo is still all about today,” said Jo. Impacting Today, Tomorrow and Years Beyond In addition to her generous specific financial gifts, Jo has also decided to invest in the educational experiences of future UM students by including the University in her estate planning. Jo hopes the impact of her estate giving will mean that there will be students at Montevallo every year for years to come who won’t have to worry where their tuition money will come from. “I’d really like to be able to take financial need away from education and give people the opportunity to just go for broke without going broke!”, she said with a smile. “The education that I got at Montevallo really made all the difference in my life. It was here that I learned to believe that I could do things. It was here that I learned what the academic intellectual life was like and that it was what I wanted to be and to do. Montevallo truly saved my life.” A Heartfelt Reason for Giving “I give to Montevallo because there are many students who are, in many ways, very much just like me: They may not come with a lot of financial resources, but they bring an eagerness to learn, a willingness to work hard and a willingness to make some sacrifices to achieve things. They are my reason why.”
CAMPAIGN UPDATE
SCHOLARSHIPS AND THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE Recently, an anonymous gift
1
of $3.2 million was graciously donated to UM for scholarships; 1 Tammy and Jon Meacham ’83 present a $100,000 check to President Stewart to endow the Meacham-Metz Scholarship for incoming art students; 2 Jim Davis, Jack Hopping, Danny Rooks, Bill Stafford, Jeanne Sledge, President Stewart, John Hilmer and Joe Findley pose with an annual check naming a scholarship in memory of Dr. Eugene B. Sledge. The Howlin Mad Smith Detachment 592 of the Alabama Marine Corps League established the scholarship to help a fellow Marine further his or her education and become a leader in the community.
2
FACULTY, COACH AND STAFF DEVELOPMENT 3 Dr. Brett Noerager was hon-
ored as the inaugural Distinguished Professor with the Todd ’66 and Linda Strange ’67 Endowed Professorship.
4
5
FACILITIES FOR LEARNING, LIVING AND COMPETING 4 Mike Strong ’72 and his wife,
Catherine, along with John Paul Strong ’02 and his wife, Amy, donated funds to expand the Mass Communication Building to meet the needs of the growing Department of Communication. The groundbreaking for Strong Hall was held on April 27; 5 President Stewart and Cindi Stewart, accounting senior Kate Bradner, Donna Grainger ’74, Michael Grainger ’73 and Stephens College of Business Dean Stephen Craft stand together after the conclusion of the Grainger Center for Professional Practice dedication on Tuesday, Oct. 18.
3 THE CAMPAIGN FOR THE UNIVERSITY OF MONTEVALLO
BUILDING ANNUAL GIVING 6 Seniors, donating to the annual fund, enjoy a lunch provided by University Advancement to build the relationship of giving.
It’s About Family
As of Sept. 30, the Campaign raised $15,752,049. That is 78.76% of the goal. OBJECTIVES: Create a culture of philanthropy and increase donor engagement with the University GOAL: $20,000,000 over seven years END DATE: Sept. 30, 2019
7 6
THE TRADITIONS FUND 7 The 1896 Society exemplifies giving back to maintain UM’s rich traditions.
CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE National Co-Chairs Sandra Bond Bowers ’66 and Richard Bowers • Tim Lupinacci ’88 Mike Strong ’72 and John Paul Strong ’02 Honorary Co-Chair Cassandra King Conroy ’67, M.A. ’88 Lynn England ’81 and Donna England ’78 • Mike Grainger ’73 and Donna Grainger ’74 Brian Hamilton and Leslie Hamilton ’00 • Jeanetta Keller ’75 and Bill Keller Kathy King • Mike Meadows ’79 and Sue Meadows • Kay Miller ’64 Libby Queen ’59 • Donna Smith-Senter ’82 • Todd Strange ’66 and Linda Strange ’67 Barbara Bonfield ’58 • Caroline Aderholt • Ronnie Jackson ’73 • Laurl Self ’94
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CLASS NOTES
1
2
3
4
5
Vaughn Receives Retired Faculty/Staff Award
On Sept. 8, UM hosted its third Retired Faculty and Staff Luncheon. The event, held annually, features a retired faculty or staff member as a keynote speaker and awards another for his or her contributions and time served at the University. Professor emerita Ted Metz spoke on the creation of his “Becoming” sculpture, the iconic 16-foot bronze-cast hands he constructed in 2003 located near King Quad. “Becoming” represents the student relationship with professors and staff, with one hand guiding the other toward the keys of knowledge. Metz taught art classes at the University for more than 40 years. His impressive work has been featured in over 100 exhibitions and earned him a National Endowment of the Arts grant. College of Arts & Sciences Dean, Dr. Mary Beth Armstrong and Chair of Behavioral & Social Sciences, Dr. Ruth Truss presented Dr. Susan Vaughn with the University’s first Retired Faculty/Staff Award. Vaughn graduated from the University in 1971 with a bachelor’s degree in social work and a minor in history. After receiving her master of social work from the University of Alabama and her Ph.D. in Social Welfare from the School of Applied Social Sciences Case Western Reserve University, Vaughn spent three years as a social worker for the Department of Human Resources. Vaughn later returned to UM to teach social work classes. She remained on faculty for more than 30 years and also served on numerous committees. She received the title of emerita upon her retirement in 2006 for her contributions to the Social Work Department’s legacy, including recruitment and alumni outreach. This year, a scholarship for upper-level social work majors was created in her name. Beyond her time at the University, Vaughn is an active Shelby County community member and serves in several local advocacy groups.
1 Ted Metz, Robin Metz, Dr. Susan Vaughn ’71, Dr. Mary Beth Armstrong and Dr. Ruth Truss ’82 at the retired faculty and staff luncheon; 2 Ted Metz describes the process of constructing the “Becoming” statue on campus; 3 Linda Honeycutt, Sharon Mitchell, Carolyn Owens and Jean Patterson enjoy catching-up at the luncheon; 4 Ronnie Ellison and Freddie Ford ’72 check-in to the event; 5 Former College of Education faculty spend time together — Robert Lightfoot, Gene Lightfoot, Anne Hamilton ’64 and Jack Riley.
20 | Montevallo Today
CLASS NOTES
1941
Susie Ezzell-Atta of Dothan, and her husband, George, will have a library constructed in their name. Susie and her husband, both mathematicians, worked extensively on several national projects, including the infamous Manhattan Project that birthed the atom bomb. The George Joseph and Susie Ezzell Atta Library is dedicated to their memory and tireless dedication to research.
1962
Randall Veazey has retired from an almost 60-year career in music ministry. Randall formed and led choirs, trios and quartets in several churches, including Riverchase Baptist and Mountain Brook Baptist Church in Birmingham. He plans to continue to work in senior adult ministry.
1963
Jane Gillis Segrest of Bonifay, Florida, had a watercolor exhibit titled “Abstract Work” put on display at the Marina Civic Center in Panama City from April to May. Her work was accepted into the National Exhibition of the Watercolor Society of Alabama and the 28th Tri-State Juried Water Media Exhibition of the Tallahassee Water Color Society.
1967
Birmingham-based painter Ronald Lewis was the featured artist during The Maury Regional Health Care Foundation’s Art Effects event this August. Ronald has participated in the program for the past nine years.
1969
Sharon Freeman Laborde, owner of Cahaba Press, is publishing A Boy’s Adventures on Lake Martin by Fred Norrell ’70 with illustrations by Celeste Laborde Hourma ’04.
1974
Cynthia “Cindy” Duke Germek of Birmingham is a member of Wilmington Trust’s new Birmingham office public finance team. She will manage corporate trust client relationships throughout the Southeast. She joins Wilmington Trust from Regions Bank where she was a team leader overseeing a diverse portfolio of municipal bonds, custody accounts and defeasance escrows. Cindy holds the designation of certified corporate trust specialist.
her Juris Doctorate from Birmingham School of Law and her MBA from Samford University.
1978
1981
Charles Kirby was re-elected for a second term to the Decatur City Council in Decatur, Alabama.
1979
Terry Barr’s collection of essays, Don’t Date Baptists and Other Warnings from My Alabama Mother, was published in February by Red Dirt Press. He is currently teaching his 30th year at Presbyterian College in Greenville, South Carolina.
1980
Ronald Fantroy delivered the commencement address for Reid State Technical College’s spring graduation ceremony on May 6. Ronald currently works as the plant manager for Shaw Industries. Last year, he was chosen by the state legislature as a member of the Board of Trustees for the Alabama Community College System. Yolanda Payton Rich is on the Board of Directors for Healthcare Financial Management Association’s (HFMA) Georgia Chapter. Since 2013, Yolanda co-chairs the Georgia Chapter HFMA CARE Forum. Yolanda also served as Yerger judge for several years and as a HFMA National Advisory Council member. She obtained
Bettye L. Rutledge was recently appointed to the National Adjudication Team for the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review with the Social Security Administration. The National Adjudication Team is a select group of 50 senior attorneys that examine and issue final dispositions on the appeals of disability claims for citizens throughout the U.S. Judy Bridges was recognized as the 2015-2016 Baldwin County High School Teacher of the Year. Judy has been a secondary science teacher at Baldwin County High School since 2001. Her role as an educator spans three decades. Margaret Morelock retired from the Santa Rosa Florida School District on July 1 after a fruitful 35-year teaching career. She now teaches private voice lessons at the Joyful Noise Music Store in Milton, Florida.
1982
Dr. Susan Keith, an associate professor at Rutgers University, was recently elected chair of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies in the School of Communication and Information. Susan, who worked as a journalist for 16 years after graduating from UM, has taught at Rutgers since 2004.
1985
Joe Bills was promoted to the position of lieutenant at the Selma Police Department in June after three decades of tireless police work. Joe was born and raised in Selma and began his career as a patrol officer in 1989.
Joel Whitaker is one of six artists selected to create original pieces of art for the Dayton Visual Arts Center’s CSA program. The Dayton artist and educator holds a Master of Fine Arts Degree in Studio Art from Florida State University in Tallahassee. Joel, a professor at the University of Dayton, will be creating a limited edition archival ink jet print.
1989
Dr. Susan Codone completed a 2016 assignment as a Fulbright Specialist in the Fulbright Scholar Program. Susan worked with Universidad Central del Este (East Central University) in the Dominican Republic helping restructure their College of Education. She will serve on the Fulbright roster until 2020.
1990
Leigh Boggs Brown was recently named the 2016 GAGC Gifted Program Teacher of the Year at the Georgia Association of Gifted Children Conference. Dr. Jeffrey Price was re-elected to Clanton’s City Council District 1. Jeffrey, a family physician, has held his position on the council for the past eight years.
1992
Steve Bowman Sr., M.Ed., was inducted into the Pascagoula Athletic Hall of Fame in June. While Steve was a versatile athlete, his major claim to fame was his position as a starting fullback under legendary University of Alabama Head Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant. After playing a season as the halfback for the New York Giants, Steve later became an educator and eventually the Athletic Director at Marion Military Institute, the state’s official military college, before retiring.
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CLASS NOTES Rhonda Brown-McRina, M.Ed. ’94, is the new director of diversity and inclusion for Hawkeye Community College in Waterloo, Iowa. Rhonda will help diverse student populations achieve academic success as well as expand diversity initiatives. She has worked at Hawkeye since 2002 serving as a counselor. Linda Church, M.Ed., was appointed for another five-year term on the Alabaster Board of Education in April. In addition to serving on the Board, Linda owns the educational consulting firm Literacy Connections and works on the state’s textbook adoption process Information Transport Solutions, Inc.
1995
Dirk Staschke’s ceramics exhibit “Nature Morte” was featured in The American Museum of Ceramic Art in Pomona, California, from May to September. The exhibit featured several near-lifelike ceramic pieces depicting human overindulgence and excess.
1998
Christine Frieder and Nora Hickman ’02 have partnered to create the law firm Frieder-Hickman in Huntsville. The two practice family and criminal defense cases and have hired Deana Strickner ’97 as their assistant. David Keegan recently completed the Master of Divinity program after seven years of seminary formation and was ordained to the priesthood for the Catholic Diocese of St. Augustine in Florida. David now serves as parochial vicar at Our Lady Star of the Sea parish in Ponte Vedra Beach.
1999
David Pederson, M.S., recently retired from the military after serving as an audiologist. David worked in large medical centers and developed hearing conservation programs. He will begin work on finishing his dissertation.
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2000
Tiffany Bunt, MBA ’13, was elected to the Montevallo City Council for District 3. Tiffany is currently employed as the marketing manager for the University.
2001
Kristen Law hosted an art camp for kindergarten through fourth grade children in June. The camp was one of four summer programs offered by the Grove Hill Cultural Arts Center in Grove Hill, Alabama. Jasmine Mobley was promoted to director of talent management at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee. In this role, she will be responsible for talent acquisition, organizational development and other human resources functions, including analytics and policies. Jasmine joined Blue Cross in 2011 as manager of talent acquisition.
2002
Matt Walker was elected to the Montevallo City Council for District 5. Matt works as the grant proposal coordinator at UM.
2003
Andrea Abernathy, the librarian of Judson College in Marion, was named the Association of Christian Librarians Member of the Month. Andrea has been the all-female college’s librarian since 2010. Kristen Dechert, a project manager for Mississippi State University’s Research and Curriculum Unit, will participate in the nationally recognized Education Policy Fellowship Program sponsored by the institute for Educational Leadership. Kristen will spend 10 months studying and researching education in rural Mississippi and then convene with other fellows for a policy seminar in Washington, D.C. Rachel Green, M.Ed. ’05, was promoted to the position of director of student success at Snead State Community College in Boaz.
J.B. Hutchison earned his law degree from the University of Kentucky School of Law and will begin working for family court Judge Sid Broderson. Joey Mure is now the chief financial coach of Blue Print Partners, a Birmingham-based financial coaching firm he founded earlier this year. Previously, Joey worked as a financial coach for Nowlin & Associates.
2005
Rachel Rehome Dozier-Ezell recently designed costumes for a production of “Macbeth” in NYC for the Classical Theatre of Harlem. Lindsay Sexton was recently named training manager at Cardinal Logistics Management Corporation, a third party transportation company where she has been employed for more than nine years. Lindsay was also identified as a member of the “2015 100% Club,” a recognition of top performing employees conferred by the company’s senior executives. Ashley “Kym” Smart accepted the position of speech-language pathologist with Children’s Rehabilitation Services of Anniston in June. She now works with children across seven counties with a variety of diagnoses, from developmental delays to various syndromes and brain injuries.
2006
Amy Johnson portrayed Ursula the Sea Witch in the Red Mountain Theatre Company’s production of “The Little Mermaid.”
2007
Mary Margaret Clapp is now a physician with the Pickens County Family Practice Center in Gordo, Alabama. She lives there with her husband, two kids, three cats and dog. Zachary McWhorter, M.Ed., is the new principal for the Shelby County College and Career Center. Previously, he was the career
tech resource center teacher for Shelby County Schools.
2008
Stephanie Ashley teaches junior and senior special education students at Jacksonville High School in Jacksonville, Alabama. She previously taught six years of special education in Cleburne County and spent a year as a media specialist for Randolph County. Temo Gonzalez is now technical director for the Louisville Trebol Soccer Club in Colorado. Temo was on the club’s first team when Pancho Hansen founded it in 1996 and is now imparting his knowledge of the game as girls technical director. Carl Maguire’s film, “Sluggo the Skullcrusher,” recently screened in NYC at Syndicated Bar Theater.
2010
Dallas Hanbury graduated from Middle Tennessee State University in August with a Ph.D. in Public History. He serves as the archivist for the Montgomery County Probate Judge’s office. Jordan Hutchison joined GV Financial Advisors in Atlanta in July. Jordan’s firm is believed to be the first and only behavioral wealth management firm in the U.S. Previously, Jordan was a junior partner with Oak Tree Financial Services in Huntsville for three years.
2011
Carolyn Jones recently accepted the position of assistant director of alumni affairs at UM. Prior to this role, she served in the President’s Office and the VP for Business Affairs’ Office. Michael Jones, Ed.S., is the principal of Shelby County’s alternative school New Direction. Michael initially served as the school’s assistant principal. Ellen Sowa is the new media consultant for the News-Aegis newspaper in Pell City.
Clinical herbalist Cameron Strouss taught an expansion of her From the Ground Up classes at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens this summer. With partner Antonia Viteri, the two taught participants information on herbal medicinal practices and alternatives.
2012
Philip “Phil” Jackson is marketing director for the now seven-shop Wilhelm Automotive network.
2013
Neal Embry accepted a reporter position with The Jonesboro Sun in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Cameron Hall was appointed as the director of annual giving at Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois. He was previously the assistant director of annual giving programs at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Tyler Smith is now an interaction design intern with Disney Studios. He is studying interaction design and game development at the Savannah College of Art & Design.
2014
Kent Harrington is the new Boys’ Golf Coach for Vestavia Hills High School. Previously, Kent assisted with the boys’ basketball and girls’ softball teams. Alyssa Luna recently accepted the position of university photographer at the University of Montevallo.
2015
Connor Bucy is now working as a graphic designer at the Shelby County Reporter in Columbiana. Amber Chapman is working as a development intern at the Tony Award-winning McCarter Theatre in Princeton, New Jersey. Lindsey Dudeck is the new director of Fendall Hall, a historic Antebellum home in Eufaula. Lindsey, a Eufaula native, married
her husband Ryan inside the historic house this past year. Clarke Stackhouse began working at the Shelby County Reporter in May. Clarke works as a graphic designer and also writes for the paper. Rebecca White recently accepted a graphic design position with MSpark in Helena. She was welcomed aboard by several other alumni at the company.
2016
Michael Cleary was part of the Thunder Bay Theatre’s summer company in Alpena, Michigan. Michael played several characters on-stage, including Joseph in “Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” Benjamin in “7 Brides for 7 Brothers” and Prince Herbert/Not Dead Fred in “Spamalot.” Stephanie Howe began working as an audit associate at KPMG accounting firm in Birmingham. Before accepting the full-time position, Stephanie interned with KPMG last spring. Aron Mcree is the Pioneer League’s Pitcher of the Year. Aron is now the pitcher for the Great Falls Voyagers, a minor league team out of Great Falls, Montana. Anleia Nance has been accepted into the master’s program in journalism at The University of Alabama.
Reed Strength joined the UM University Relations staff as the communications and media relations specialist.
WEDDINGS
2004
Heather Alford and Phillip Scott ’15 were wed June 18. Phillip is currently employed with I.H. McNeill, III, CPA accounting firm in Pelham. The couple resides in Jemison.
2008
Megan Scofield, M.Ed. ’10, and Jeffery Michealson were married
Photo by Henry Truong
Designing the Next Step: Smith Finds Success in Disney Internship FOR TYLER SMITH ’13, the goal is to leave every morning with the mindset of never going to work. “I wanted to do something I was passionate about,” he said. “If I did it long enough, the money would come.” Smith has currently reached that goal. The UM alumnus is now an interaction design intern for Disney Studios in Glendale, California. At Disney, Smith works with teams to design website and app software for the media company’s legendary theme parks. Smith said interaction design is straightforward software meant to be instantly intuitive and accessible to customers. “I’ve always liked making things people would enjoy,” he said. Smith originally came to UM to study art, but quickly changed his major to a subject closer to his heart: mathematics. Set on becoming a game developer, Smith joined the Montevallo Organization of Gaming (MOG) and picked up the new Game Studies & Design minor as well. He called Game Studies & Design Director Dr. Cathlena Martin and Dr. Benton Tyler immensely influential mentors. He credits that program with setting up his next step after graduation: attending the prestigious Savannah College of Art and Design. It was there that he discovered a specific fondness for interactive design after a project with touch screens in BMWs. Originally, Smith was only supposed to intern with Disney from June to September. However, his hard work impressed the studio enough to extend his contract until March of next year. He attributes his success to hard work, luck and the versatile education he received at UM. He explained that his liberal arts education on the brick streets taught him how to be adaptable when it comes to problem solving and teamwork. Though he misses his fiancé, Gabrielle Railey ’13, and authentic Alabama barbeque, Smith said he has achieved his longtime career goal. “Now, just to hold on to it,” he laughed.
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CLASS NOTES on July 2. The couple resides in Gulf Shores where Megan is an art teacher.
2009
Emery Bullocks and Matthew Griffin were married on March 26 at Lovely Lane Chapel in St. Simons, Georgia. The couple resides in Birmingham.
2013
Lindsay Danielle Harrison and Aaron Fite Burleson were married June 4 at Jemison First Baptist Church. Lindsay is working as an adolescent counselor/coordinator for Bradford Health in Madison.
2014
Courtney Renee Smith and George Braxton Gray were married at the New Life Community Church on June 25. The couple resides in Jemison. Courtney currently teaches sixth grade at Clanton Middle School.
2015
Caitlin Schaeffer and Trenton Ray Jones ’16 were married on July 9 at First Baptist Church in Oxford, Mississippi. Caitlin is currently studying to be a doctor of dental medicine at Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona.
2016
Chelsea Hope Grissom and Joshua Daniel Ledbetter married in June at K&K Barn Weddings in Jemison. Hope is an executive consultant for Pink Zebra fragrances. The couple resides in Jacksonville, Alabama.
BIRTHS
2006
Terra Miller and Fred Miller ’04 welcomed their daughter, Uni Powers Miller, on June 17. The Miller trio currently resides in Tuscaloosa.
2009
Savannah Willingham Kitchens and James Kitchens ’10 welcomed their daughter, Stella, on Sept. 3.
24 | Montevallo Today
DEATHS
1940
Martha Wood Musgrove, 98, of Gardendale, died June 8. Martha was employed by Goodyear Tire Company before she retired after 31 years of service.
1941
Margaret Fuller Brock, 96, of Vestavia Hills, died April 10. Margaret was a lifetime member of Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church and the United Methodist Women.
1942
Mary Beth Wilbanks, 95, of Auburn, died Feb. 23. Mary Beth served in the U.S. Navy as a member of W.A.V.E.S. during World War II from 1944-1946. She then taught in several schools: Lanett High School in Alabama, Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida, and Young Harris College in Georgia before joining the Auburn University Library in 1959.
1943
Norma Robinson Prestidge, 94, of Plant City, Florida, died May 6. Norma served in the Plant City branch office of the Hillsborough County Tax Collector until she retired.
1944
Bettie Brock, 94, of Greenville, died Aug. 17. Bettie worked for TCI in Birmingham as a chemical analyst and retired in 1983 after 39 years.
Julia Vernon Keller of LaGrange, Georgia, died July 1. She held a long career as a piano teacher and was an active LaGrange community member, with leadership positions held in the LaGrange Woman’s Club and several honors societies.
member of Woodland Methodist Church in Cecil, Alabama. Dora Ann was also a former member of the Pike Road Civic Club, Woodland Ladies Circle and Woodland Hilltoppers.
1946
Betty Grisham Evans, 91, of Elkmont, died on May 17. She had a long career as a social worker, rising from a position as a case worker with the Welfare Department to serving as Director for more than 20 years.
1947
Mary Margaret Wimberly Goodwin, 91, of Alexander City, died on Aug. 29. Mary Margaret’s hobbies included playing bridge, gardening and traveling. She had adventures in Spain, Portugal, Mexico, Hawaii and Canada among other destinations. Hilda Nell Pallas, 89, died on April 23. She worked as a teacher at Bryars Dowdy Elementary School in Lebanon, Tennessee.
1948
Sue Roberts Sanders Stokes, 88, of Inverness, Florida, died April 12. Sue taught home-economics at several schools throughout her life, including Hubbertville High School. In addition to teaching, she was the home economist for Alabama Power and assisted her husband, Claude Stokes, with his Standard Oil distribution. Sarah Barret Fant, 89, of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, died April 11. Sarah taught school for 33 years at Whitesides and Mount Pleasant Academy Elementary Schools.
Jean Rhodes McDonald, 93, of Columbus, Georgia, died Sept. 6. Jean worked as a social worker for the USO Travelers Aid and St. Francis Hospital.
Amy Barbaree Arnold, 90, died Aug. 24. Amy taught mathematics at Sylacauga High School, and was the recipient of the Alumna Loyalty Award from the University in 2000. She kept the class of 1948 in touch by organizing luncheons several times each year.
1945
1949
Dora Ann McClurkin Wallace, 93, died April 6. She was a charter
Avaline Patton Childers, 88, died Jan. 1. Avaline was a professor
emerita of the UM Home Economics Department where she taught for more than 30 years.
1951
Hilda Jeanette Smith Cary, M.A. ’68, 86, of Thorsby, died May 8. Hilda was an educator and worked throughout the Shelby County School System. Her last 22 years of teaching was at Shelby County High School. Margaret Byrd Guenther, 86, of Spanish Fort, died June 6. Margaret developed the first school music program at Spanish Fort Elementary School. She was a founding member of the Baldwin County Music Teachers Association, was Woman of the Year 1989-1990 for the Spanish Fort Estates Garden Club and Spanish Fort Neighbor of the Year 1966. Connie Ruth Johnson Stubbs, 86, of Sumter, South Carolina, died May 25. She worked as an educator for most of her life, teaching physical education as well as special education. Connie was also one of the founders of the Sumter High Band Booster Club and was an accomplished singer.
1952
Hilda Tidwell Butts, 86, of Monroeville, died July 22. Hilda was a teacher and Bible scholar for First United Methodist Church in Monroeville, Alabama.
1953
Emmy Jones Harper, 85, of Houston, Texas, died April 9. Emmy taught school in Montgomery and owned a travel agency for 32 years. She opened Harper Travel International in 1979, which ultimately grew to three Houston offices. Helen Raley Harman, 85, of Lexington, North Carolina, died April 8. Helen was a social worker at Davidson County Department of Social Services for 22 years.
1954
Gale Little Doak died March 22. Gale was an art professor at Florida
Southern College in Lakeland, Florida. She was an active member of First Presbyterian Church of Lakeland and enjoyed a variety of hobbies, including gardening, traveling and photography. Mary Killian Lowrey, 84, of Birmingham, died Aug. 5. Mary was an elementary school teacher in Bay Minette, Alabama, as well as Oxford Elementary. Lucy Underwood, 83, died July 10. Lucy was associate professor of music at Georgia College & State University in Milledgeville, Georgia. She was named Distinguished Professor by the GC&SU Foundation, and in 1986, Distinguished Alumna of the Year by UM.
1955
Barbara “Bobbi” Waller Moskot, 84, of Fairhope, died Aug. 27. Bobbi became a nursing home administrator and later the co-owner and administrator of the physical therapy business, The Wounded Knee. She helped found the Mardi Gras organization the Krewe of the Mullet Mates and Tail Chasers, a shelter for cats.
1957
Norma Stewart Robinson, 80, of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, died July 16. Norma was a long-time resident of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. She was an elementary and middle school teacher in Alabama and Mississippi for more than 30 years.
1958
Ashley Jeter, 79, of Pace, Florida, died April 29. Ashley worked with neglected children at Rodeheaver Boys Ranch in Palatka, Florida, and Arizona Boys Ranch in Queen Creek, Arizona. He worked as a schoolteacher and coach, in the hotel industry, as an actor, as a radio host and managed the Key West Convention Bureau in Key West, Florida.
Charlotte McGinnis Dollar, 79, of Overland Park, Kansas,
died May 23. Charlotte began her teaching career in 1959 in Alabama and retired in 2000 after teaching for more than 20 years at Shawnee Mission North High School in Kansas.
1961
Margaret Stallworth Denton, 77, died July 12. She taught music at B.B. Comer Elementary School in Sylacauga, as well as private piano lessons. She also taught music at L.M. Smith Elementary and Middle School as well as choir and English at Ramsay High School in Birmingham. Patricia Kelly, 76, of Alexander City, died Aug. 28. Patricia worked as a physical therapist at UAB Spain Rehabilitation Center in Birmingham for more than 30 years.
1963
Ronald Smitherman, 75, of Montevallo, died June 8. Ronald was an accomplished athlete and avid sports fan.
1965
John Ross Batson, 72, of Birmingham, died April 12. As an educator, he served as the principal of Barrett Elementary and director of Epic School. In addition, he had a love of theater and performed and directed several shows at community theaters in the Birmingham area.
Ramon “Buster” Ros, 74, of Mobile, died Sept. 1. Buster worked for Greif Brothers Corporation and was a professional drummer.
1967
Iredrell Kittrell “Kit” Agee Jr., 70, died July 19. Kit used his degree to become an educator, first teaching special needs children and then finding a permanent place as a beloved fifth grade teacher. He and his wife Sabrah Agee ’70 would entertain guests with song — Kit on guitar and Sabrah singing. Douglas Ballard, 72, of Montevallo, died April 15. Doug
worked at X-Ray Service and Sales Company and Ballard Solution Service. He was also an active volunteer with fire, rescue and EMS services. Doug went on to own and operate Ballard Medical Imaging. In 2002, Doug was presented the Lifetime Achievement Award for his many years of dedicated service to the citizens of Shelby County and the state of Alabama. Tuskin Caldwell, 72, of Tuscaloosa, died July 12. Tuskin worked in the business forms industry and was semi-retired from his company, Global DocuGraphics, at the time of his death. Melanie Petithory, 71, of Mobile, died May 13. Melanie was an extremely active member of the city’s local theater community, starring in several productions put on by the Mobile Theater Guild.
1968
Warren Porter, 71, of Hoover, died April 18. Warren was in sales and marketing for the concrete and construction industry.
Billie Stringfield Swartz, M.A., 86, of Birmingham, died July 13. Billie taught first grade for more than 40 years and touched the lives of hundreds of students.
1971
Bobby Hiott, 74, of West Blocton, died April 3. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and brother.
1972
James Carlton, M.Ed., 78, of Birmingham, died Aug. 26. James was a teacher at Abrams High School and then Jess Lanier High School. After retirement, he taught defensive driving classes in Georgia. He was also inducted into the Miles College Football Sports Hall of Fame. Susan “Beth” Harper Holland, 65, of Tempe, Arizona, died May 1. Beth ran an in-home daycare center, Miss Beth’s Nursery, worked for Electronic Data Systems, helped run Clancy’s Family Restaurant in
Washington and then worked for Arizona State University.
1973
Marilyn Wilson Daily, 65, of Greenfield, Indiana, died Feb. 22. Marilyn taught school in Lawrence Township for 15 years before retiring in 2004. She was a member of Northside Baptist Church in Indianapolis for 26 years serving in the newborn nursery for most of that time. Marjorie Silliman, M.Ed., 97, of Birmingham, died Sept. 5. During World War II, she joined the Red Cross and served in England and Guam. From 1962 to 1982, she owned and taught at Happy Hours Kindergarten in Birmingham.
1974
Hubbard Harris Maroney Sr., M.Ed., 86, of Selma, died April 29. Hubbard began his career as a high school coach, with years spent at Opelika and Selma High Schools among others. In 1972, he became a school administrator until retiring in 1988. Wanda Britton McKinney, 63, of Birmingham, died Aug. 9. Wanda worked for Southern Living magazine as a travel writer and was given the title of Honorary Kentucky Colonel. She later worked for St. Vincent’s East Hospital in Birmingham and Eternal Word Television Network as an administrative assistant. Sandra Margaret Beck Morgan died on Feb. 20 after a battle with cancer. Sandra was a member of Alpha Gamma Delta and maintained lifelong friendships with her sisters. Sandra retired in 2005 after a nearly 30-year career as a secretary with Alabama Power and Southern Company in Birmingham.
1975
Mary Gould Kinman, M.Ed., 78, died July 30. Mary worked as a teacher throughout the Birmingham area, including positions with All Saints’ Episcopal Day School, Spaulding Elementary
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CLASS NOTES and the district’s Attendance Department. Mary became the director of attendance in 1989. Michael Vann, 64, of Hoover, died July 13. Michael had a 31-year career at Birmingham Water Works, where he served as both CFO and CEO before retiring in 2006.
1977
William Timothy Averett, 64, of Monroeville, died June 29. He worked at the Alabama Department of Revenue and was a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association and American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association. Deborah Bahr Gillon, 60, of Cullman, died Feb. 28. Deborah was a member of Northside Baptist Church in Cullman where she served as an active member of the Encouragers, adult choir, and as youth Sunday school teacher. She was employed by Albert P. Brewer High School from August 1977 until her retirement in May 2015. Carol Lowery, 72, of Jemison, died April 13. Carol was a homemaker and grandmother to 16 grandchildren.
Paul Mote, 69, of Decatur, Alabama, died May 4. Paul owned and operated his own business, Mote Plumbing. He was also a U.S. Army veteran, having served in Stuttgart and Bad Kissingen, Germany, from 1968 to 1970.
1980
Samuel Jude “Sammy” Slatsky of Dora, Alabama, died July 30. Sammy was an athlete who kept his love for sports alive by coaching little league baseball and basketball. While he was a custodian at Pleasant Grove Elementary School for many years, he volunteered with the high school tennis team, his sport of choice while at UM.
1984
James “Lee” Griner, 55, of Birmingham, died Aug. 13. Lee worked as a protocol analyst at UAB and helped those struggling with addiction in Narcotics Anonymous. He also served as president of the Birmingham Festival Theatre.
1985
Deborah Rubino, 55, died June 15. Deborah was a licensed dietician in her early career but later dedi-
cated her life to being a wife and mother. She is survived by her husband Nathan Rubino ’86.
1986
Susan Lavonne Angel, 61, died April 25. Her career was in banking, working as a loan analyst at AmSouth and then SouthTrust in Birmingham. She later worked for The Southern Bank Company in Guntersville.
1994
Anita Messer McAllister, 43, of Richmond, Virginia, died Aug. 2. Anita served in several leadership roles with the Richmond Dietetic Association.
1996
Glenn Robertson, 41, of Deatsville, died Jan. 12. Glenn was a Home Builder and Commercial Realtor in Millbrook, Alabama.
1997
Julie McGill Bauman, 41, of Knoxville, Tennessee, died April 21. Julie was the foster care supervisor with Youth Villages and adopted three children through the foster system.
We Want to Hear
FROM YOU!
DO YOU HAVE NEWS to share with the Montevallo family? Send your updates to today@montevallo.edu.
26 | Montevallo Today
2003
Al Clolinger, M.Ed., 46, died July 6. He was a credit counselor at Gateway Family Services for 16 years and was also an adjunct instructor for Southeastern Bible College.
CONDOLENCES To Sylvia Weaver Jones ’56 and family on the death of her husband Robert “Bob” Jones, who died March 10 in Napa, California. To the family of Betty Ray, 83, of Montevallo, who died July 7. Betty was bookstore assistant in Farmer Hall at the University of Montevallo. To the family of Dr. Frank McCoy, Dean Emeritus of the College of Fine Arts and Professor of Art. Frank died Aug. 1 with family and loved ones by his side. He was a well-loved, prominent figure on campus for more than 30 years. To Tracy Payne Rockco ’94, M.Ed. ’98, and the Rockco family on the death of her father-in-law, Billy Rockco on Aug. 15.
ALUMNI EVENTS
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Alumni spotted at events held from May through September.
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4 Junior Board Spring Soirée Cahaba Brewing Company 1 Alumni join for the Junior Board’s annual Spring Soirée which serves as a fundraiser for the Junior Board Leadership Scholarship; 2 Erica Tabb ’02 and Jahzmin Young ’09 enjoy the well-attended event; 3 Alumni peruse the silent auction offerings.
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Tennessee Valley Area Alumni Club Summer Social 4 Members of the Tennessee Valley Area Alumni Club spent the day at Laten House Bed & Breakfast in Fayetteville, Tennessee, owned by alumna Melanie Laten ’75. Attendees went on a UM-themed scavenger hunt, painted wine glasses and enjoyed lunch together in the beautifully restored home. Minority Alumni Club Summer Social 5 Young alumni Cedric Norman ’09, Brittany McQueen ’12, Ashley Lowe ’13, Melanie McGee ’11 and Aleigha Parker ’12 enjoy the Minority Alumni Club Summer Social; 6 Eddie Baker ’04 and Marcus Kennedy ’07 are all smiles despite the heat on the rooftop of the Southern Kitchen; 7 Minority Alumni Club Summer Social at the Southern Kitchen in the Uptown District of Birmingham.
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ALUMNI EVENTS
Night at the Ballpark sponsored by the Jefferson County Alumni Club and Junior Alumni Board 8 Paul Doran ’68, Karen Kelly ’80, Diane Wheeler, David Wheeler ’72 and Kit Waters ’78 enjoy the Birmingham Barons game; 9 In-Mi Matsunaga ’14 and Haley Evans ’13 have a bird’s eye view of the game. Chilton County Teacher In-service Day at Clanton Performing Arts Center in Clanton 10 Director of Alumni Affairs, Tracy Rockco ’94, presents alumna Wendy Smith ’91 of Isabella High School a basket full of UM trinkets. Three on a String Performance and Post-show Reception 11 Band members Jerry Ryan ’72, Andy Meginniss ’68 and Bobby Horton pose with Tracy Rockco ’94, at the UMNAA sponsored reception after the 45th Reunion Show held at the newly restored Lyric Theatre in Birmingham.
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Tennessee Valley Area Alumni Club Back to School Kickoff at Lowe Mille Arts and Entertainment in Huntsville 12 Artist Corinna Nicole ’08 presented the artist talk. Alumni Faculty and Staff Coffee and Convo in Reynolds Hall 13 Mother-daughter duo Julie McEntee ’76 and Erin Watkins ’09 show off the ALUM coffee tumblers they received at the Coffee and Convo event for UM Alumni Faculty and Staff held to kick off the new academic year. Rogue Tavern 14 Cortez Bennett ’12, Kacie Kilpatrick ’09, and Jahzmin Young ’09 spend time catching up; 15 Young alumni gather for Happy Hour at Rogue Tavern in Birmingham sponsored by the Junior Alumni Board. 1970s Reunion Anna Irvin Dining Hall 16 Tom Walker ’75, Betty Walker ’75, Kit Waters ’78, Jim Methvin ’73, Carol Ann Methvin ’73, Kirk Lightfoot ’76, Carol Lightfoot ’76, Karen Kelly ’80, Bill Nathews ’75, Barbara Sloan ’72 and Cathy Jo Wheeler ’75 served as reunion chairs for the event; 17 Members of ATO fraternity enjoyed spending time together before the start of the reunion; 18 Brenda Fortune Underwood ’77, Gerald Douglass ’75 and Mary Bullard; 19 Classmates from 1970 to 1980 enjoyed BBQ lunch provided by Bill Nathews ’75, stories shared by classmates and the popular ice cream sundae bar.
28 | Montevallo Today
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ALUMNI COLLEGE NIGHT TICKET SALES NEW PROCEDURES College Night tickets will be available online to active alumni beginning on Nov. 15, 2016, at montevallotickets.university tickets.com.
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STEPS 1. First-time users will need to set up an account. 2. Select a seat based on availability for the night tickets are desired. 3. A maximum of two (2) tickets for Friday OR Saturday may be purchased, but not both.
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4. Print out your ticket or use your phone for confirmation at College Night. PLEASE NOTE • Minimum $25 contribution to the UM Foundation since 10/01/16 is required. • Donation may be made at the time of ticket purchase. • Ticket purchases will be monitored each day. Tickets purchased that do not meet these criteria, will be reversed.
19 2017 HOMECOMING SCHEDULE — HOME IS WHERE THE BRICKS ARE Friday, February 10 2-4 p.m. 5-6 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m.
Class of 1967 Registration...................................................................... Reynolds Hall 114 *Class of 1967 Reception.........................................................................Montevallo Room *Class of 1967 Dinner......................................................................... Reynolds Hall Lobby *College Night Productions..................................................................... Palmer Auditorium
Saturday, February 11 10-11:30 a.m. Vintage Purples Alumni Brunch............................................................................. Wills 201 2-4 p.m. Class of 1967 Reunion and Photo.............................................................. Main Hall Lobby Alabama College Society Meeting.............................................. Reynolds Hall Merrill Room 4:30-5:30 p.m. *Class of 1977 Reunion and Photo............................................. Reynolds Hall Front Lobby *Class of 1987 Reunion and Photo..............................................Reynolds Hall Rear Lobby *Class of 1997 Reunion and Photo.........................................................Reynolds Hall 114 4–5:00 p.m. *Class of 2007 Reunion and Photo.................................................................Location TBD 5–6:30 p.m. *Young Alumni Reunion...................................................................................Location TBD 7 p.m. *College Night Productions.....................................................................Palmer Auditorium
View the complete schedule of events at www.montevallo.edu/homecoming * Event requires ticket purchase. Schedule subject to change.
Interested in serving as a reunion chair? Contact Tracy Rockco at 205-665-6215 or paynet@montevallo.edu.
• Alumni College Night ticket purchases and donations are non-refundable. For those who are not able to purchase tickets online, call the Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs at 205-665-6215. Beginning Nov. 15 running through Feb. 10, an automated message will be played indicating to press “1” for College Night ticket purchases and “2” for all other requests. Someone will then assist you with purchasing your Alumni College Night tickets. This service will only be available during regular business hours. Questions? Please contact the Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs at 205-665-6215 or email umalumnioffice@montevallo.edu.
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ALUMNI EVENTS
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Alumni Gather for Games and Good Times at UM Olympics Day 2016
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he Department of Athletics spearheaded the golf tournament that kicked off the 49th annual Olympics Day at the University of Montevallo. The golf tournament was held at the Montevallo Golf Course on Friday, Oct. 14. More than 80 golfers filled the carts and headed off to play after a lunch of grilled hamburgers and hot dogs. Celebrity VIPs such as Dr. John W. Stewart III and Freddie the Falcon were on hand to wish golfers good luck. The festivities continued afterward with dinner and prizes. Early Saturday morning kicked off the annual Hope Bryant Smith Memorial 5K Run and Fun Run coordinated by the Junior Alumni Board. Proceeds from the 5K Run benefit the Hope Bryant Smith Service Scholarship for a deserving UM student. Closing out the weekend was the third Annual Greek Alumni Reunion held at the University Lake. More than 60 Greek alumni and friends gathered for socializing and friendly competition. Each group decorated their tailgating spot in creative ways. The alumni groups were asked to bring donations for the campus food pantry. Alpha Gamma Delta won the Loyalty Award for having the most alumni in attendance and Alpha Delta Pi received the Spirit Award for the best tailgating decorations and food donations. “The Greek Alumni Committee wanted to do something that would give back and benefit the students of UM. We chose the UM Food Pantry as our philanthropy project because all of us remember needing some Ramen Noodles or a box of cereal at one time or another in our college days,” said Stephanie Shaw ’93. “I am so proud of our Greek Alumni and the amount of food that was donated.” During the reunion, new members were inducted into the James Wilkinson Greek Loyalty Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame, created in 2014, honors Greek alumni that have demonstrated their loyalty to the Greek organizations and students of UM. This award honors those who continue to serve as leaders and mentors to their Greek brothers and sisters. This year’s inductees included Chi Omega Megan Elliott Randolph ’06, Alpha Kappa Lambda Greg Lee ’99 and Alpha Gamma Delta Augusta Sims Lovelady ’47 who was inducted posthumously.
30 | Montevallo Today
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1 Greek alumni gather at the University Lake for a cookout and the James Wilkinson Hall of Fame induction ceremony; 2 Kristen Dechert ’03, Mary Beth Epperson ’02 and Jeff Purvis ’02 spend time catching up at the Greek Alumni Reunion; 3 Karl Hunt, Athletic Director Mark Richard, coach Bob Reisener and Dr. Greg Samuels team up for the 49th Annual Olympics Day Golf Tournament; 4 Graham Chenault races toward first place in the Hope Bryant Smith Memorial Fun Run; 5 Hope Bryant Smith Memorial 5K Run winners (from L to R): Candice Harris ’03 (2nd), Jordan Insinga (3rd), Toni Leo ’80 (1st), Jordan Arsement (1st), Bryan Heaton (2nd), Brian Bonner (3rd).
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ALUMNI SURVEY RESULTS Number of respondents: 532*
ALUMNI EXPERIENCE
DEMOGRAPHICS
Top programs and services the UMNAA should provide: • Montevallo Today: 85.7% • Scholarships: 69.2% • Alumni awards: 60.5% • Volunteer opportunities: 57.1% • Social media: 56.6%
Age: • 21-30: 11.6% • 31-40: 18.5% • 41-50: 14.9% • 51-60: 22.5% • 61-70: 19.3% • 71-80: 10.8% • 81+: 2.5% Gender: • Female: 68.9% • Male: 29.8% • Prefer not to respond: 1.3% Class Year: • 2000-2014: 25.9% • 1990-1999: 15.6% • 1980-1989: 19.9% • 1970-1979: 18.3% • 1960-1969: 19.9% • 1950-1959: 3.9% • Attended, no degree: 1.2%
Types of events most likely to participate in: • College Night: 51.5% • Homecoming: 44.4% • Department-based events: 28.8% • Social events: 28.8% • On-campus events: 28.2% • Affinity group events: 27.8% Last time on campus: • Last six months: 38.8% • 6-12 months: 9.4% • 1-5 years: 29.2% • 6-10%: 10.6% • 11+ years: 11.9%
Get to know the UM Alumni Association give. and... have fun. join us.
DID YOU KNOW? The University of Montevallo National Alumni Association will turn 115 years old in 2017. 1/3 of the UM Alumni Association’s budget goes toward scholarships. Unrestricted giving to UM funds the 8 Alumni Leadership Scholarships that are awarded by the Alumni Association each year. Children and grandchildren of active UM Alumni are eligible for a Legacy Book Scholarship through the Alumni Association.
• For those who have attended an alumni event, 86.1% are likely to attend another event. • 61.1% rate their alumni experiences as good to very good. • 93.2% have been back to campus since graduating.
COMMUNICATION • 76.3% of respondents indicated the amount of information received about the University of Montevallo is appropriate. • 97.2% read Montevallo Today most of the time or all of the time when received. • 76.9% use Facebook and 24.8% use LinkedIn. • 77.2% are aware we have an Alumni Board of Directors but only 50.5% are aware we have a Junior Board.
UM EXPERIENCE • 96.6% of alumni respondents rate their UM experience as good or very good. • 87.3% were involved in campus life. --56.6% in College Night — 42.4% are Purple and 41.7% are Gold, --34.6% in Greek life. --31.2% in academic honor societies. • 97.7% would recommend UM to a potential student.
ALUMNI SERVICES • Services the UMNAA should provide include career development and networking, an online directory and web streaming of College Night. *Survey was administered in 2015
Each year, the Alumni Association presents 3 awards at Founders’ Day — including the newly named Mary Lou Elder Williams Alumnus Loyalty Award — and 3 awards at Homecoming — including the prestigious Distinguished Alumnus Award. The UM Alumni Association Board of Directors is made up of 25 alumni and 5 ex-officio members representing 7 decades of graduates.
More than 3,000 alumni attended UM alumni events in the past two years. Attending events hosted by the Junior Alumni Board is a great way for recent graduates to stay connected after graduation. The easiest way to get involved with the Alumni Association is to join us at your next local event. It is much easier than moving in a freshman at Move-In Day! 9 geographic alumni clubs and 5 affinity alumni clubs are available for you to join. If there isn’t one in your area, let us know! The Alumni Association sponsors as many as 15 reunions and receptions at Homecoming each year.
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NON-PROFIT ORG U.S.POSTAGE PAID PPCO
University of Montevallo Alumni Affairs Reynolds Hall, Station 6215 Montevallo, AL 35115
Mark Your Calendar December 2
Chilton County Alumni Club Christmas Parade Viewing and Reception Elizabeth Hall, Clanton; 5 p.m.; Free event
February 25
Gulf Coast Area Alumni Mardi Gras Parade Viewing Battlehouse Hotel, Mobile; 6-8 p.m.; $35
March 9
Chilton County Alumni Club Wine Tasting and Reception Hidden Meadow Vineyard and Winery, Jemison; 6-8 p.m.; $10
April 13
Shelby County Alumni Club Benefit Bash (tentative) Stewart Student Retreat Center; 6-8 p.m.; $20
April 23
College of Fine Arts presents Godspell Reynolds Hall; Pre-show reception begins at 1 p.m.; Performance begins at 2 p.m.
April 28
River Region Alumni Club at Montgomery Biscuits Game Riverwalk Stadium; Pre-game reception at 6 p.m.; $20
Save t he Date www.montevallotickets.universitytickets Before purchasing event tickets for the first time through University Tickets, you will need to create a username and password and complete the registration form. Each subsequent time you register for events, you will only need to enter your username and password. If you have questions about setting up your account, please contact the Alumni Office at 205-665-6215. For Homecoming schedule and detailed ticket information, see page 29.