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Mississippi State Summer 2006 | Volume 82 | Number 2 USPS 354-520

President Robert H.“Doc” Foglesong

features One State. One Team. | page 2

Dennis A. Prescott (’06)

Dr. Robert H. “Doc” Foglesong, Mississippi State’s 18th president, recently told faculty, students, staff, alumni, and friends of Mississippi State that his first job was to cheer the university on to greatness.

Associate Vice President for External Affairs and Alumni Association Executive Director

The little shop of possibilities | page 6

Vice President for External Affairs

Jimmy W. Abraham (’75, ’77)

Mississippi State Alumnus is published three times a year by the Office of University Relations and the Mississippi State University Alumni Association at Mississippi State, Miss. Send address changes to Alumni Director, P.O. Box AA, Mississippi State, MS 39762-5526; telephone 662-325-7000; or e-mail fcarr@advservices.msstate.edu. Editorial offices: 102 George Hall, P.O. Box 5325, Mississippi State, MS 39762-5325. Telephone 662-325-3442; fax, 662-325-7455; e-mail, snowa@ur.msstate.edu www.msstate.edu

Editor Allen Snow (’76)

Associate Editor Kay Fike Jones

The T.K. Martin Center marks 10 years of providing technological assistance to those with disabilities.

New approaches to teaching | page 12 Book reports and classroom participation have, in more and more cases, given way to podcasting and learning communities, creating a new and stimulating environment for State students.

‘Mr. Veteran’ leaves legacy of dedication and service | page 16 Longtime U.S. congressman and 1943 Mississippi State business graduate G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery died May 12, 2006, in his hometown of Meridian. First elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1966, he held office through the terms of seven presidents.

Shackouls Honors College will ensure competitiveness | page 18 Funding for a new honors college at MSU will come from an endowment established by Bobby and Judy Shackouls of Houston, Texas, allowing the university to join the ranks of seven other Southeastern Conference universities with honors college distinction.

Cullis Wade Depot houses new bookstore, museum | page 22 In mid-July, Barnes & Noble, the New York-based national bookstore chain, begins moving its MSU location from the Colvard Union to a just-completed, $8.5 million campus building designed to resemble a railroad station.

Designers Becky Smith Erin Norwood (’98)

Photographers Russ Houston (’85) Megan Bean

Mississippi State University Alumni Association National Officers Betty Latimer Black (’74), national president; David W. Jones (’81), national first vice president; Andrew D. Hunt (’70), national second vice president; S. Keith Winfield (’70), national treasurer; Joe L. Bryan (’63), immediate former national president.

Barlow enjoys ‘best of both worlds’ | page 24 In 1997, a mere three days after graduating magna cum laude in political science, Michelle Barlow began working for U.S. Rep. Roger Wicker as a legislative correspondent in Washington, D.C. This February, she was named his chief of staff.

On the cover: Mississippi State’s energetic new president, Robert H. “Doc” Foglesong, has hit the ground running--literally and figuratively. Photo by Russ Houston.

Robert H. “Doc” Foglesong becomes ‘head cheerleader’ for MSU BY MARIDITH WALKER GEUDER PHOTOS BY RUSS HOUSTON AND MEGAN BEAN

In his first two weeks as Mississippi State’s 18th president, Robert H. “Doc” Foglesong kept what anyone would describe as a brisk pace. He dropped into a communication class, entertained Orientation Leaders at his home, spoke to civic groups, visited with media, got to know faculty members, stopped by the library, threw out the first pitch at a baseball game, was interviewed on-camera by an aspiring student broadcaster, adopted a dog being cared for by the vet college, spent time with the Mississippi Congressional delegation in Washington, and still managed to hold a dizzying array of on-campus meetings—and get in his daily five-mile runs. That was just for starters. He also introduced a few now-familiar expressions into the Mississippi State University vocabulary. The phrases, which are gaining currency on campus, capture both the vision and ethic of Doc Foglesong.

Dawg One. In comments made last March during his introduction as the preferred candidate for MSU’s 18th president, Foglesong told faculty, students, staff, alumni, and friends of Mississippi State that his first job was to cheer the university on to greatness. That’s a message he repeated in a subsequent column for the Alumni Association’s online newsletter, E-Bark. He wrote that he and wife Mary were delighted to be back

Left: Doc Foglesong and Homer, adopted from the vet college

in the Golden Triangle, after serving in the early 1990s as commander of the 14th Flying Training Wing at nearby Columbus Air Force Base. He earned his wings at CAFB in 1972. “Our job—actually that’s wrong—our passion will be to work with you to identify the avenues to greatness and then work to ensure you have the resources and policies necessary to take that leap,” he wrote. “It’s a team event,” Foglesong continued. “It’s our honor to be the head cheerleaders and team captains.” He signed the column, “Dawg One, Doc Foglesong.”

One State. One Team. Foglesong devoted a 33-year military career to the concept of teamsmanship—a word that suggests every player is important and has a contribution to make. He immediately adopted “One State, One Team” as a tag-line to emphasize his commitment to unity and inclusion. One of his first steps was to involve as many players as possible in a “bottoms-up” review of key areas of the university, including academics and the undergraduate experience, research and graduate studies, outreach and service, faculty, and staff. He also invited community representatives to participate in identifying town-gown issues. In a column he wrote for the student newspaper, the Reflector, he described the effort as “a process that brings all the stakeholders around the same table to assess where we are and where we want to be. Since everybody on the State Team can make a difference, it’s important to have as many inputs as is logical to enable the State of the Future,” Foglesong said. He set an ambitious deadline for the State of the Future planning, asking that committees provide assessment and proposed strategies by the end of July. The results will be used to build what Foglesong describes as “an architecture for achieving a vision to be the most respected land-grant school in the Southeast.” “I want this to be a living committee,” Foglesong said. “The ideas that emerge may have to do with resources, or they may have to do with reorganization. The point is to do it right and not have to re-do our plan every year.” Foglesong says he wants the effort to generate a fiveyear plan that can be followed by a subsequent five-year plan. “We need to be setting milestones,” he said.

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Shackouls Honors College students enjoy an informal gathering.

You Don’t Stumble into Leadership. Foglesong is a strong believer in the power of leadership to transform lives, and that teaching leadership is one of the responsibilities of higher education. He has established a new program at MSU that will help students develop skills to prepare themselves for leadership roles during and after their university experience. Affiliated with a similar program he is establishing in his home state of West Virginia, the initiative is called the Appalachian Leadership Honors Program, and Foglesong envisions a regional, connected effort in several Appalachian states. “We have a great honors program for academics in the Shackouls Honors College,” Foglesong said. “We’re also now creating an honors program that will help our students leave Mississippi State understanding the importance of character in their lives.” Having served in leadership roles in the United States Air Force for most of his adult life, Foglesong says that “a great strength of this nation is leadership. Character is the foundation for leadership,” he said. At Mississippi State, the Appalachian Leadership Honors Program will be housed in the Division of Student Affairs, where an initial—or Alpha—class of 20 sophomores and 10 juniors will be selected this fall. Participating students will be required to meet academic qualifications and will be paired with a leadership mentor. They also will attend lectures and seminars and have opportunities to network with recognized leaders. “I want Mississippi State to become a center of excellence in leadership, perhaps even developing a minor in leadership skills,” Foglesong said.

Foglesong out for his daily run

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The Mississippi State Promise. With tuition increases on tap for the fall, Foglesong said that providing access to a Mississippi State education is an important goal for him. Drawing on private donations, he is establishing a new program he calls “The Mississippi State Promise.” “We are trying to provide in a modest way the resources to help young men and women who have been squeezed out by tuition,” he said. Coordinated by the Division of Student Affairs, the new program will consider both grade-point averages and income levels in awarding the first round of “Promise” awards this fall for all entering freshmen who qualify. The program is expected to grow in subsequent years to provide additional institutional grants to qualified entering freshmen. Qualifying students will continue to receive the assistance for up to five years. The Mississippi State Promise program is intended to help students from low-income families afford the cost of tuition and fees to attend MSU. In addition to institutional grant funding, it will draw on federal and state grants, aid, and waivers. An additional component will be identifying on-campus work opportunities for students while they learn. “I’m confident that we’ll be able to take a bite out of this,” Foglesong said.

The Foglesong File.

Doc and Mary Foglesong

I Fell in Love with 480 Knots. During his 33-year Air Force career, Foglesong flew nearly every aircraft in the U.S. military inventory. He says he “fell in love with 480 knots” (553 miles per hour). In the process of following his love, he held increasingly responsible leadership positions that included vice chief of staff of the United States Air Force and commander, U.S. Air Forces in Europe. His responsibilities included recommending and implementing policies dealing with personnel, operations, infrastructure, and intra/intergovernmental affairs for an organization of 358,000 uniformed members and 158,000 civilian employees. The duties were equivalent to the position of a chief operating officer for a Fortune 500 company. He retired last February as a four-star general and was named MSU’s 18th president March 28. “Strengths I bring to Mississippi State are leadership and motivating people,” he said. Because he’s held top leadership roles, Foglesong says he understands the importance of “letting the people who pull the trigger make the decisions. “Mississippi State has a lot of good people,” he said, adding that he wants to decentralize as much as possible. “I’m good at some things, and some I would be wise to leave to the experts. Don’t expect me to tell the English Department how to teach English.” Doc Foglesong says he’s proud of the strengths he sees at Mississippi State, and he believes the university is poised for the next great leap. With the engines revved, he’s set his sights on the future and he believes the university is just about ready for take-off. Destination: the most respected land-grant school in the Southeast.

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Born in Mingo County, W. Va., he is the only son of a first-grade teacher and a plumber. His mother still lives in West Virginia. He has been married for 39 years to Mary Thrasher Foglesong, a longtime English instructor at the college level. They have two adult sons, one a lieutenant colonel in the Air Force, and one a television broadcaster. Foglesong holds bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in chemical engineering from West Virginia University. He completed additional courses of study at the National War College and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Program for Senior Leaders. He is president and executive director of the Appalachian Leadership and Education Foundation, a nonprofit that seeks to identify the next generation of leaders in Appalachia, providing mentoring and financial assistance in support of their academic, leadership, and character excellence. President George W. Bush in April designated Foglesong co-chair of the U.S.-Russian Joint Commission on POW/MIAs. His hobbies are running marathons (he’s run the Boston Marathon six times), collecting slide rules, collecting potato mashers, and public speaking.

t.k.

MARTIN CENTER

the little shop of possibilities

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T.K. Martin Center marks 10th anniversary By Maridith Walker Geuder Photos by Megan Bean

On a warm June day, a dozen or so youngsters gather at the flagpole on the center of Mississippi State’s Drill Field. Some arrive in wheelchairs, while others jump, run, and fidget with anticipation. Some chatter with the shrill excitement of youth. Others “talk” with their fingers flying over the keyboards that help them communicate.

They’re part of an eight-year-old summer program established by Mississippi State’s T.K. Martin Center to foster social and communication opportunities for youngsters who use computer-based voice devices. Children with no disabilities also attend “Camp Jabber Jaw,” providing a valuable experience for those who use the computerized voice assistance to interact and share with their peers. Camp Jabber Jaw continues to draw students and their parents from around the Southeast, with themes ranging from “Cruising to Camp” to “Survivor Jabber Jaw.” Allowing those with disabilities to reach their full potential is the guiding principle of the center that bears the name of MSU’s former vice president, Theodore K. Martin. Martin, who retired in 1984 and died in 1994, led the university’s efforts to accommodate students with disabilities. Founded in 1996, the T.K. Martin Center this year celebrates a decade of service to the state. Since it first opened its doors, the comprehensive research and service facility has served more than 6,000 clients who range from only months old to those approaching centenarian status. Many are referred by state agencies such as the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services. “We serve people regardless of their age or diagnosis,” explained Janie Cirlot-New, center director. “They may have functional limitations, or issues related to dexterity, communication, vision, hearing, or learning. We match technological solutions to their needs to remove barriers at work, at home, or in recreational outlets.” 8

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Among technologies provided by the T.K. Martin Center are • seating and mobility • adaptive driving and vehicle modifications • adaptive computer access • augmentative and alternative communication • home and job site accommodations • assistive technology for auditory and visual impairments • assistive technology for brain trauma and learning disabilities • agriculture accommodations. Specialists in each area include rehabilitation engineers, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, and even art and dance instructors. They’ve earned rave reviews from the clients with whom they’ve worked, who note the compassion, inventiveness, and responsiveness of the staff.

Technology and compassion Former Tupelo mayor Larry Otis calls the T.K. Martin Center “a hidden diamond.” When his wife Julia was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also called Lou Gehrig’s Disease, T.K. Martin staff members became a lifeline that helped Julia continue to attend events with her husband and maintain normal schedules as much as possible until her death in 2005. “We were evaluated first for a wheelchair,” Otis explained, adding that the measurements were so precisely tailored to his wife that “it was almost like getting a prescription.” Later, Julia Otis would need a tilting chair, a

Left: Camp Jabber Jaw. Below: Communicating with technology. Right: Adaptive driving.

computer-generated voice output device, and an adapted vehicle for transportation. T.K. Martin staff members assisted with every need. “With their help, my wife had a better quality of life,” Otis said. “The people there really have a compassion for the individuals they serve.” Now retired, Otis is a research fellow at MSU’s Social Science Research Center and an education graduate of Mississippi State. “I knew Dr. T.K. Martin when I attended MSU, and this center is a great legacy,” Otis said. Like Otis, Dr. Armando Garma-Avina, associate professor in the College of Veterinary Medicine, also turned to the T.K. Martin Center when his wife was diagnosed with ALS.

“As soon as the diagnosis was issued, my wife’s neurologist contacted the T.K. Martin Center,” he said. “They came to my house and installed (and let us borrow) computerized equipment and wheelchairs that made her life significantly easier.” Garma, who believes even more people should take advantage of the services of the T.K. Martin Center, said “it is wonderful to have such a center nearby. I am most impressed by the great service they provided.” He recalls that T.K. Martin staff members even drove the couple to Jackson for an appointment with a neurologist at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. “They became a part of the team working towards making my wife’s life more bearable,” Garma said.

Seeing is believing One of the newest areas of service for the T.K. Martin Center is bioptic driving. In addition to offering vehicle modifications for clients with mobility issues, the center’s bioptic driving expertise provides opportunities for those with visual impairments to qualify for driving. Those using the technology must successfully complete at least six hours of training before being licensed by the state. Mississippi requires vision of 20/200 or better with corrective lenses and 20/40 with bioptic use, said

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Left: Cliff Dedeaux, occupational therapist. Opposite page: Project ART students show their creativity.

Cliff Dedeaux, occupational therapist at T.K. Martin. He and rehabilitation engineer Wes Perry received training with Chuck Huss at the West Virginia Rehabilitation Center and since have worked with 10 clients in Mississippi. “Bioptic driving is appropriate for conditions such as albinism, macular degeneration, nystagmus, and other issues that affect the central macular area,” Dedeaux explained. The system involves a small telescope attached to a “carrier,” or pair of glasses. The client is trained to detect most objects through the regular eyeglass lens and to focus on other details by glancing in and out of the telescopic unit. One person making use of the T.K. Martin’s assistance in bioptic driving is John Ellzey, a sophomore at the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg. The psychology major from Daphne, Ala., has a condition known as achromatopsia, a genetic disorder also shared by his brother. He has an extreme sensitivity to light and no color vision, making driving a difficult undertaking. “I’ve been dependent on others for rides, and it’s been hard always 10

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to work around other people’s schedules,” Ellzey said. His bioptic lenses were prescribed by Dr. Glen Stribling, a Jackson physician, and he spent a week last summer at the T.K. Martin Center being fitted and trained in use of the special equipment. “I started driving immediately,” he said. Ellzey, who has typically used a bicycle to navigate the campus and the Hattiesburg community, said he’s now saving his money for a car. Meanwhile, he practices driving regularly. “This has made the difference in my being independent and in being dependent on someone else,” he said. For driving adaptations, “we see all types of disabilities,” Dedeaux said. “We have one client whose disability prevents him from pouring a cup of coffee, but because he has shoulder movement, we’ve been able to provide technologies that allow him to drive.” Driving solutions may range from the low-tech to the most sophisticated one-handed drive systems that include remotely operated doors, electronic tie-downs for wheelchairs, and turn signals operated by tonal sounds. “The one requirement is that someone evaluated for driving have functional shoulder movement,” Dedeaux said.

Celebrating the arts Another recent venture for the T.K. Martin Center is Project ART, an acronym for Art as Recreation with Technology. Pairing students with and without disabilities, the afternoon program provides art and dance activities that traditionally have not been an option for children with disabilities. “We want to teach respect for those with all levels of abilities,” explained Dedeaux, who coordinates the U.S.

Department of Education-funded project. “We’re also seeing those with disabilities advance in their skills.” Classes meet twice weekly for both dance and art, with about 20 students participating in each class. Dance instructor is Danielle Wheat-Whittington, an MSU psychology graduate who has 18 years of studio training in tap, ballet, jazz, lyrical, hiphop, and acrobatics. Art instructor Bac Shelton, an MSU graduate, has recently relocated to Florida, and instruction now is provided by Whitney Hilton, a local artist. “We’ve learned that someone in a wheelchair can dance, and we’ve seen some outstanding examples of artistic expression,” Dedeaux explained, noting students had just completed an exhibition of their works, combined with a dance recital. “Project ART provides participants plenty of reason to celebrate,” Dedeaux said.

The next 10 years Janie Cirlot-New, director of the T.K. Martin Center, is proud of the more than 6,000 clients whose lives have been touched by technologies that allow them greater independence. Her vision is to expand the number of people the center is able to reach and to build collaborations with other campus units also serving those with disabilities. “Mississippi has a high population of citizens with disabilities, and we are committed to responding to their needs,” she said. “We want to be able to provide services to anyone in Mississippi who needs our help.”

Growing the T.K. Martin dream Barry Wood of Starkville is a businessman who is best known for the famous “Little Dooey” barbecue and restaurants. He’s also a passionate supporter of the work done by the T.K. Martin Center. “I’ve been told that approximately one out of five families in the Mississippi State family are touched by some kind of disability, and I strongly believe in the work that this center is doing,” he said. His commitment is so strong that he recently designated a $50,000 life insurance policy to the T.K. Martin Center, and he’s urging other Mississippi State alumni and friends to respond with their support as well. His vision is to pull together expertise from around MSU to create a center for all disabilities. “We have enough alumni to make this happen,” he said. “Until you see through the eyes of a disabled person, you don’t understand the magnitude of what the T.K. Martin Center provides,” Wood said. “The need is here in our state, and it will continue to grow. We need to be a part of helping others help themselves.” For more information about how to support the work of the T.K. Martin Center, contact Dennis Prescott, MSU vice president for external affairs, at 662-325-9306.

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NEW APPROACHES TO

Book reports and classroom participation have, in more and more cases, given way to podcasting and learning communities, or any number of other new ways of teaching at MSU. These efforts to create a stimulating learning environment for State students is continuing, along with some other innovations. In addition to podcasting and learning communities, MSU academics are aided by a new Math Domain and writing center in the English department. Read on to learn more about the latest methods used to teach students how to face the world.

MSU profs extend classrooms with podcasting Starkville resident Vicki Brown is a fulltime employee, a mother—and a Mississippi State student. Because personal commitments keep her from attending university classes during work hours, she’s utilizing a new alternative that’s the next best thing: podcasting. “I can’t say enough good things about podcasting,” said Brown, operations manager for the Division of Continuing Education and Academic Outreach. “I feel like I’m actually in the classroom.”

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She is enrolled in principles of public relations, a class taught by communication department head John Forde, one of three faculty members participating in the pilot podcast project. The on-demand technology allows students to download audio files from the Internet and listen at their convenience, using a desktop computer or an MP3 player such as an iPod. The collaboration between MSU’s offices of the Provost and Information Technology Services provides an “on-the-go” technology for busy students, Forde said. “I really enjoy face-to-face contact with students,” said the 20-year teaching veteran. “I don’t want to diminish that dynamic, and I see podcasting as an enhancement.” While this is Forde’s first experience with podcasting, he’s a longtime fan of the technology and has about 2,000 iTunes downloaded on his personal iPod. “With in-person lectures, PowerPoint summaries I post to the Web, lecture notes posted to the Web, and podcasting, I’m trying to provide as much information as possible with as many different methods as I can,” he explained. “I want my students to do well.” The recorded audio file is automatically processed and made available to students via podcast or download.

Below, left: Dr. John Forde of communication uses an iPod to deliver his lectures. Below, right: Wireless capability throughout campus helps make studying possible anywhere.

TEACHING Compiled by Kay Fike Jones Photos by Megan Bean and Russ Houston

Students to link subjects, classes in learning communities In a new teaching approach implemented by the Office of Academic Affairs, interested students—from freshmen through seniors—may enroll in 10 thematically linked “learning communities.” While not all will live in the same residence halls, all of the special “communities” will be based on interconnected content. Rich Raymond, head of the English department, is interim director of the MSU Learning Communities and a teacher for one of the program’s prototype courses. He expressed confidence that the learning communities’ concept will help encourage students to delve deeper, make connections and shift their idea of what it means to attend “class.”

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“This experience is designed to foster interactive learning,” Raymond said. “It takes the traditional classroom experience, with a professor lecturing and students taking notes, and turns it around.” Among other topics, the communities merged communication, composition and government; environmental design and special education; psychology and communication; creative writing and art history; biological engineering and mathematics; physics, accounting, and agricultural engineering; and two marketing classes.

“Math Domain” gives new shape to algebra instruction The department of mathematics and statistics is taking a byte out of the challenge to master algebra. In an effort to encourage more student initiative in learning, a first-floor Allen Hall space that once housed the university admission’s office has been restructured into a computer-based mathematics tutorial and homework

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center for students taking college- and intermediate-level algebra. Dubbed Math Domain, the facility features nearly 100 computers at which students complete class assignments and take quizzes and tests. The center is open 50 hours each week so participants can pace their own learning, said interim department head Michael Neumann. He said MSU’s computer-based learning is “a multiple step approach,” which he described as a hybrid of its predecessors. The new approach combines two hours of classroom lecture with two hours of math laboratory at the center. The Math Domain is equipped with tutors to help students when they don’t understand homework problems. “The moment students need help, someone will be there for them,” Neumann said. Phil Oldham expressed praise for the department’s plan. He’s dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, of which Neumann’s department is a part. “This is far from throwing students into the deep end to sink or swim,” Oldham said. “The program is selfpaced and the responsibility is heavily on the student, with plenty of support from instructional staff.”

Left: Students use the Math Domain to find that elusive “x” in solving algebra problems. Opposite page: One-on-one assistance at the English department's writing center is making better writers of MSU students.

Oldham said that while cost benefits may not be significant, the new process will allow the department to better manage its resources

MSU expands writing assistance with new center Because she is serious about good writing, Alicia Aiken of Ocean Springs desires to provide the critical tools for others to strengthen their abilities. The Mississippi State student is teaching a basic English course while she completes coursework for a master’s degree. She’s also among five graduate students now concluding a semester of intensive training before beginning work in January as a mentor at the university’s new writing center. “We’re exploring theories and practices for effective one-on-one approaches to writing,” Aiken said. As a result, she added, “I’m becoming a better teacher.” A new writing center located in Lee Hall, home of the

English department, is using graduate students to help fellow students learn to write well. Efforts to create the center were initiated by new department head Rich Raymond, who came from the University of ArkansasLittle Rock prior to the fall semester. In addition to being an award-winning UALR teacher, Raymond was director of the Little Rock Writing Project, among other duties. He is a doctoral graduate of Miami University who also holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Wyoming. “I saw the need for a modern writing center at Mississippi State that would be open to anyone on campus,” Raymond said, explaining that the facility replaced a dated computer laboratory that allowed students to work on rough drafts but provided little one-on-one instruction. To meet the needs of a new center, Raymond submitted a proposal on behalf of his English department faculty colleagues for upgraded equipment and furnishings. Provost Peter Rabideau responded with approximately $21,000. The center includes 10 new computers with the latest word processing software, round tables for individual consultation, and more comfortable seating. “Our vision is that the writing center director, in addition to teaching writing classes, also will offer workshops for MSU faculty who want to learn more about using writing to teach courses across the university curriculum,” he said.

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“Mr. Veteran” leaves legacy of dedication and service Longtime U.S. congressman and 1943 Mississippi State business graduate G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery died May 12, 2006, in his hometown of Meridian. He was 85. Montgomery retired in 1996 from a 41-year public service career that also included election to the Mississippi Senate. First elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1966, Montgomery held office through the terms of seven presidents. He won national acclaim for his leadership in passing 1988 legislation that extended benefits— especially educational—of the original 1947 G.I. bill legislation. 16

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As a sign of respect for his efforts, congressional colleagues designated the benefits package as the Montgomery G.I. Bill. It also helped cement his honorary Capitol Hill title of “Mr. Veteran.” A former Student Association president at Mississippi State, Montgomery also devoted three decades of his life to military service that included active duty in World War II and the Korean War. He retired from the Mississippi Army National Guard with the rank of major general. In 2005, President George W. Bush awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the

Leadership program to honor Montgomery

Right: A wreath rests at the base of the Montgomery statue following the congressman's death.

highest civilian honor awarded by the United States. Following his death, President Bush ordered U.S. flags to be flown at half staff on the day of his interment. “Laura and I and the entire Bush family are saddened by the death of a good friend and patriot, Sonny Montgomery,” the president said. “Sonny Montgomery served during World War II and the Korean War, and he was a tireless advocate for America’s veterans throughout his three decades in the House of Representatives.” Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour said of Montgomery, “The good he did for veterans is a national accomplishment, but he accomplished so much in so many areas that all Mississippians are grateful for his service and leadership.” Almost exactly a year prior to Montgomery’s death, MSU student leaders helped dedicate a life-sized bronze sculpture of the one-time SA president. Their role was only fitting, since it was 21st century members of the student body who conceived of the tribute and raised funds to commission the work by Raymond artist Tracy H. Sugg. Today, “Sonny’s Statue” stands guard at the southwest corner of the university’s historic Drill Field, on which he spent many hours as a member of Army ROTC.

Quotes used above were extracted from various published news sources.

A new student leadership development program at Mississippi State will honor alumnus G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery, university President Robert H. “Doc” Foglesong announced in May. “The entire Mississippi State University family grieves at the loss of one of our most distinguished alumni,” Foglesong said. “We had planned this tribute to honor our friend’s exceptional leadership, and we know that Sonny would be the first to say that this program to support our next generation of leaders is a significant living legacy to his core values,” he added. “We honor his enormous contributions and his memory today.” Foglesong said the Appalachian Leadership Honors Program being launched this fall is being named for the 15-term U.S. congressman from Lauderdale County. The campus program is being developed in a partnership with other universities across the Appalachian region and will be designated formally as the Sonny Montgomery Chapter. “There is no more fitting example of leadership and character to represent the ideals of this program,” said Foglesong, a longtime Montgomery friend. To be housed in the Division of Student Affairs, the program will identify and support students as emerging leaders. “Our goal is to provide a foundation in character development and leadership skills through hands-on mentoring and instruction,” Foglesong said. The skills “are essential in preparing the next generation of business, political and academic leaders,” he added. An inaugural class of 20 second-year and 10 third-year students will be selected by October. They also will participate in the selection of future members. Carrying the title of honor fellows, the students will work regularly with assigned mentors and participate in ongoing leadership seminars. Each also will be actively in-volved in various campus and community service activities. Foglesong, who spent more than 30 years in public service leadership roles, said Montgomery typifies the type of “leadership with character” the new program will promote. For more information about the Appalachian Leadership Honors Program/Sonny Montgomery Chapter, telephone the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs at 662-325-3045, or the Dean of Students Office at 325-3611.

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Judy and Bobby Shackouls visit with Dr. Charles Lee at the ceremony announcing the honors college that will bear their names.

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By Amy Cagle | Photos by Russ Houston

Gifted high school students across the nation are becoming savvy about what they want in a university experience, and Mississippi State is responding with the creation of a new community of scholars.

The incoming freshman class of honors students will be privy to an innovative living and learning environment at MSU. The university’s honors program is undergoing a transformation into a full-fledged honors college complete with a state-of-the-art residential and classroom facility for its scholars. “We are still going to have all the great things that traditionally have comprised our honors program—small classes taught by great teachers, along with a host of other bonuses, including the new honors complex that will allow us to give prospective honors students exactly what they are looking for in a university,” according to Nancy McCarley, honors director.

The honors program at Mississippi State, the oldest in the state, began in the late 1960s when a small group of university students began taking special courses. Through the years, the program moved into the mainstream, gaining national recognition for its size and structure as it provided personalized academic experiences. Today, the program boasts more than 1,000 talented students in all fields of study. Funding for the new honors college will come from an endowment established with a generous $10 million gift from Bobby and Judy Shackouls of Houston, Texas. Mississippi State will join the ranks of seven other Southeastern Conference universities with honors college distinction. The university’s honors program will be named the Judy and Bobby Shackouls Honors College in recognition of their contribution. The gift also provides a major infusion for State of the Future, catapulting the campaign past another milestone—nearing $310 million on its way to a $400 million goal. Shackouls, a native of Greenville and an MSU chemical engineering graduate, said the gift is an investment in one of Mississippi’s most important resources—the young men and women who are its future.

Some of MSU’s most talented honors students flank Bobby and Judy Shackouls following the announcement of the gift.

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“The gift is just another small step in providing the resources to let the rest of the nation know what MSU alumni already know, and that is that Mississippi State University is among the finest institutions in America and a great place to get a college education,” Shackouls said. The Shackouls have long been supporters of the university in the areas of scholarships, endowed faculty positions, and facilities. Bobby recently retired as chairman, president and chief executive officer of Burlington Resources following the company’s acquisition by Conoco-Phillips Inc., an integrated international energy company. In anticipation of the honors college designation, the university earlier this year reserved classroom, office, and living space in S. Bryce Griffis Residence Hall, a fourstory $14 million facility now under construction in the new Northeast Village complex. Named for a longtime MSU benefactor and former state College Board member from Starkville, the campus housing facility opens this fall. University officials are anticipating that the Shackouls endowment, along with the new community space, will give the university the edge it needs in recruitment of high-caliber students who are often lured out of state to other universities and colleges, and that it will also attract additional talented out-of-state students. The “college” 20

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distinction will position Mississippi State in direct competition for top students with neighboring universities— including Mississippi, Arkansas, and Alabama. Honors enrollment at Mississippi State typically accounts for one quarter of the total incoming freshman enrollment each year, but competition is becoming more intense regionally and nationally. “In fact, of the Mississippi residents who have earned National Merit status in recent years, approximately half of these students have chosen to leave the state to continue their education and they may never return to live and work in Mississippi,” McCarley explained.

An architect’s rendering (left) depicts the new honors complex currently under construction on the northwest side of campus.

Christina Young, a sophomore chemical engineering major and Presidential Endowed Scholar from Vancleave, agrees. “I almost chose Vanderbilt University rather than Mississippi State, but I went with MSU because of the promise of more opportunities here,” she said. Andy Lindeman, a Presidential Endowed Scholar, echoes Young’s sentiment. “MSU alumni in my home state of Alabama encouraged me to take a look at Mississippi State first, so I visited and kept comparing what I was hearing about the possible upgrades to other places,” said the sophomore computer science major from Madison, Ala. Now, Lindeman, a future Griffis resident, is excited about the new learning environment and says he’ll definitely recommend the honors college to prospective students. McCarley is such a strong proponent of the new community of scholars that her son, Bob, an entering honors freshman, will be among the first 300 residents of Griffis Hall. “This is a great opportunity for honors students. The existing honors offices were located on the south side of campus away from the day-to-day foot traffic. Now the students will have a central base on campus with access to honors faculty and staff, honors classrooms, and honors housing,” she explained. Through the endowment, the university will expand the number of honors courses at both the lower-division and upper-division levels. Support from the endowment also will be used to increase and improve the advising available to honors students in pursuit of prestigious national scholarships and awards. The Shackouls endowment addresses other draws for top students by providing funds for undergraduate research fellowships and study abroad. “Today’s top high school students are heavily recruited by schools offering these sorts of value-added experiences. Now the playing field is a bit more level,” McCarley said. Young, who will travel to Europe this summer through the Bagley College of Engineering, is excited about possible

study abroad opportunities for her fellow honors students. A further benefit of the gift includes expansion of programs for visiting scholars and distinguished lecturers. “The ability to give students access to more speakers and role models—from renowned leaders and noted historians to perhaps Supreme Court justices or Pulitzer Prize-winning authors, will aid them along their academic journey,” McCarley said. And, through the new honors community, McCarley believes MSU will be equipped to turn out even more accomplished scholars. “Our honors graduates are not only continuing their education at other notable schools like MIT, Yale, and Vanderbilt, they are actually competing head to head for prestigious graduate fellowships at these schools and winning them on their own merit—that in itself says a lot about our program and it will only get better,” she said. Another gift will enhance the new honors college. Alumnus Lamar Conerly and wife Tracy of Destin, Fla., have committed $150,000 for a special honors lectureship. To be named for Lamar Conerly, the visiting lecture series will enable the Shackouls Honors College to greatly expand its relationships with leaders in a variety of academic professions and career fields. “We have reached a great point in our history. The honors college designation and other upgrades—hopefully paired with more academic scholarships—will move us forward,” McCarley concluded. “And, we will definitely reap the benefits of the Shackouls’ generosity for years to come.” Interested persons may contribute to the honors experience at Mississippi State through the State of the Future campaign. For more information, contact John Rush by e-mail at rush@foundation.msstate.edu or telephone 662-325-8852.

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CULLISWADEDEPOT houses new bookstore, museum

BY SAMMY MCDAVID

In mid-July, Barnes & Noble, the New York-based national bookstore chain, began moving its Mississippi State location from the Colvard Union to a just-completed $8.5 million campus building. Named the Cullis Wade Depot, the dramatic new structure was designed to resemble a railroad station. Construction of the two-story building was completed over the past year with private gifts provided by Wade, along with university funds and bookstore revenues. The high-profile company began operating what formally is called the Barnes & Noble at Mississippi State Bookstore in late 2005. Previous to that, Chicago-based Follett Corp. had run the business since the state’s largest university began outsourcing its auxiliary unit in the 1980s. The Wade Depot is located between Davis Wade Stadium—which was named in honor of Wade’s cousin after his major gift enabled its expansion—and the Bost Extension Center. The building also includes the Cullis Wade Clock Museum, as well as the MSU Visitors Center, yet another campus service being launched to meet the school’s reputation as a widely known destination point. The distinctive public complex adjoins “The Junction.” A just-opened gathering area, the campus park replaces the major intersection commonly known as “Five Points” that once accommodated the confluence of six roads and streets. “This is a student-inspired concept, including the naming of the area,” said President Charles Lee at The Junction’s April groundbreaking. Speaking at one of his last public events before departing as MSU’s 17th chief executive, Lee observed that the common space’s name is meant as a play on the other informal moniker—“Malfunction Junction”—many gave the often-congested crossing point.

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The museum will be housing more than 300 clocks collected over a lifetime by Wade, the retired 1940 Mississippi State electrical engineering graduate who lives in Bogalusa, La. Dominated by a high-ceiling over much of its space and featuring a number of convenient customer lounge areas and the Golden Triangle’s first Starbucks store, the 30,000square-foot retail center fills the bulk of Wade Depot’s interior. The partial second-floor level is accessible by steps and the campus’ first escalator. “The entire first floor features Mississippi State-themed items, including insignia sold only at this Barnes & Noble,” said Ray Hayes, the university’s vice president for finance and administration. “Textbooks and student supplies are located on the second floor.” Hayes said the much of the interior wall space has been decorated with scores of photographic images showcasing the land-grant institution’s 128-year-old growth and development. Drawn from both archival and contemporary sources, the pictures trace the school’s history from a humble beginning with less than 400 students in the 1880s to its current status with a 16,000-plus enrollment and national reputations in a number of research, academic and athletic areas. Open daily except on major holidays, the MSU store joins more than 820 B&N locations in all 50 states. The world’s largest bookseller proudly has described the new business as its “premier college operation.”

Architectural depictions of the new Cullis Wade Depot and Barnes & Noble Bookstore

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Enjoys the Best of Both Worlds By Amy Cagle | Photo provided by Michelle Barlow

The call of public service holds a special allure for Michelle Barlow, and she is savoring what she believes is the beginning of a long-term career in government.

In 1997, a mere three days after graduating magna cum laude in political science from Mississippi State University, Barlow began working for U.S. Rep. Roger Wicker, RMiss., as a legislative correspondent in Washington, D.C. This February, she was named his chief of staff. The Clinton native worked in Wicker’s office for a total of seven years. In that time, she’s filled almost every staff capacity. “I actively pursued this position, and I know it will be a lot of work, but I believe I’m up for the task,” she says. Barlow already admits to spending more hours in her Capitol Hill office than at her home in the Washington area. However, she says the challenges and rewards of public service are worth the demands of the job. “When I was a young child, I often said I wanted to be the first woman president. For now, I’m comfortable with the fact that what I love to do has turned into a career,” she confesses. As chief of staff, Barlow heads the Washington and district staffs for Wicker in Columbus, Grenada, Southaven, and Tupelo. “In a nutshell, I meet with Mississippi constituents who want to present their concerns or ideas about how the federal government can help Mississippi,” Barlow said. “Our office works closely with companies wanting to establish a presence in the state. I also assist the

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congressman in implementing his legislative priorities.” Barlow is considered a leading MSU alumna in Washington and has helped many students jump-start their careers. “I talk with at least two students a week about the importance of summer internships with members of Congress,” she said. “I try to help them realize that you don’t have to have a degree in political science, just an overwhelming desire for public service.” Another item on her list of priorities is promoting her university. During a hiatus from politics, Barlow served as a development director for the MSU Foundation. She also has served on the steering committee of the Washington, D.C., chapter of the university’s Bulldog Club and has played a leadership role in the local alumni association. Barlow can attest firsthand to the benefits that private gifts have on the university. The John C. Stennis Scholarship, designated for Mississippi residents with a proven interest in governmental affairs and public service, led her to Mississippi State. From there, a series of events led her to Wicker’s office, including serving as a page for the Mississippi Senate, and interning with Rep. Mike Parker and then-Gov. Kirk Fordice. Barlow has great respect for Wicker and the commitment he has made to serving Mississippi. She is enthusiastic about his decision to seek re-election for a seventh consecutive term. Wicker has served Mississippi’s 1st Congressional District since 1995. If his constituents vote him back into office, she’ll be looking forward to another two years in Washington. “Sometimes I really miss Mississippi, but I have the best of both worlds. I get to keep all my Mississippi ties and assist my state in the nation’s capital,” she said.

CAMPUS news Two National Academies members joining faculty Two widely recognized scholars and members of the prestigious National Academies are joining the faculty ranks. Reproductive biologist Neal First soon will begin an appointment with the university’s biological sciences department, while electrical engineer James Flanagan—a 1948 MSU graduate—will be affiliated with the Bagley College of Engineering. Both will hold the rank of distinguished research professor. Based in Washington, D.C., the National Academies is the umbrella organization for the National Academy of Sciences, National Academy of Engineering, Institute of Medicine, and National Research Council. Authorized by the federal government, the member agencies serve as the highest level of advisers on matters of science, engineering and medicine. Considered one of the highest honors a scientist or engineer can receive, membership in the academies is based on distinguished and continuing achievements in original research. First recently retired as L.E. Casida Professor of Reproductive Biology and Animal BiotechFirst nology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Known for his pioneering work in animal biotechnology, he was the first to prove that cattle could be cloned. Techniques he developed now are commercially available for both human and animal applications. Flanagan is recognized worldwide for his scientific contributions in speech technology. His ideas have contributed to the development of modern automatic speech recognition systems, audio codes such as MP3s and modern voiceover-Internet protocol technology. Flanagan Flanagan, who received advanced degrees from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, spent more than 30 years at AT&T Bell Laboratories, where he became the director of information principles research. He joined Rutgers University in 1990, serving as vice president for research and retiring in 2005 as Board of Governors Professor Emeritus.

In Super Bulldog Weekend ceremonies, student leader Jeff Ellis made comments preceding groundbreaking for a new outdoor commons area to be known as The Junction. Inspired by students, the campus green space near Davis Wade Stadium will replace the former confluence of streets known informally as Malfunction Junction.

Veteran ag leader, journalist adds to library collections A World War II-era Mississippi State graduate who went on to successful careers in farm management and journalism is donating a collection of his photographs and slides to the university’s library archives. Harris H. Barnes Jr. of Clarksdale has provided 80 boxes of images dating back to 1946. “All are related to agriculture,” said Michael Ballard, head archivist at Mitchell Memorial Library. “Most of the material focuses on the Mississippi Delta, but other parts include images from throughout the United States and several foreign countries.” Ballard said portions of the Barnes Collection will be used to enhance the library’s ongoing CHARM project. An acronym for the Consortium for the History of Agricultural and Rural Mississippi, the multi-unit university effort seeks to promote a better understanding and appreciation of the major role played by agriculture, forestry and rural life in the state’s development, he explained. Barnes, a 1941 MSU agricultural administration graduate, became a Delta farm manager following war service in the Marine Corps. Concurrently, he began recording agricultural scenes through the lens of his personal cameras.

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CAMPUS news MSU again capturing annual state profiles The 38th annual edition of the popular Mississippi Statistical Abstract now is available. Compiled and produced by the College of Business and Industry, the desktop reference for economic, demographic and social data is used regularly by employees of government and economic development agencies, as well as educators, researchers, and others interested in Magnolia State facts and figures. Printed editions are $40 each, plus $4 for shipping and handling. The compact-disc version is $50, plus $1.50 for shipping/handling. To obtain a copy, contact the college’s Office of Business Research and Services at (662) 325-3817 or jspencer@cobilan.msstate.edu.

New name for center reflects clean energy Mississippi State is changing the name of a major research center to reflect its expanding role as a developer of clean energy systems and catalyst for state economic advancement. The state College Board approved the name change for the university’s Diagnostic Instrumentation and Analysis Laboratory—known for years by its acronym DIAL—which now is designated as the Institute for Clean Energy Technology, or ICET (“ice tea”). “In response to national, state and local priorities, MSU is beginning to focus more of its research effort in the area of energy systems,” explained Roger King, associate dean of the Bagley College of Engineering for research and graduate studies. Established in 1980 as a research unit of the engineering college, DIAL has operated combustion test and plasma torch facilities for decades to test high-temperature materials and perform a variety of other research functions. It has supported U.S. Department of Energy environmental mediation projects since 1993. Located in the Thad Cochran Research and Technology Park adjacent to the university’s North Farm, DIAL has generated 24 patents and three computer software copyrights over the past eight years. The variety of research and development projects range from energy production to environmental control and infrastructural assurance. 26

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Award honors contributions to quality of student life Nineteen students were honored with a new award for their contributions to the quality of university life. Called the Spirit of State Award, the accolade is considered the premier student recognition each school year. Winners will be publicly recognized and receive a special customized gift designating their achievement. The honor is sponsored by the Division of Student Affairs. The 2006 Spirit of State award winners were recognized in April. They include: Matt Bramuchi of Madison, graduate student in microbiology; Caleb Butts of Decatur, Ala., senior political science major; Jon David Cole of Brandon, senior history major; Stephanie Dallas of Snellville, Ga., sophomore clinical exercise physiology major; Bethany Doyle of Canton, junior accounting major; Jeffery Ellis of Biloxi, senior mechanical engineering major; Claire Fellman of Ocean Springs, senior biological engineering major; Megan Fly of Birmingham, Ala., sophomore communication major; Jennifer Glaze of Birmingham, Ala., junior marketing major; Brian Maran of West Monroe, La., veterinary medicine student; LaRea “Pepper” McWilliams of Ruleville, senior elementary education major; Ben Mims of Kosciusko, junior journalism major; Jennifer Rupinski of Homewood, Ala., junior biological sciences major; Karolina Sarnowska of Diamondhead, senior computer science and mathematics major; Keeyon Scott of Gulfport, senior communication major; Lokesh Shivakumaraiah of Bangalore, Karnataka, India, graduate student in computer engineering; Josie Smith of Columbus, junior industrial and systems engineering major; Lauren Springer of Columbus, junior English major; and Alicia Wiseman of Shannon, senior wildlife and fisheries major.

CAMPUS news Report analyzes state rules for prescribed forest burns

Participating in the recent opening of an armored vehicle manufacturing plant in West Point were (left to right) CAVS associate director Zach Rowland, Glenn Dennis of the CAVS Extension facility in Canton, Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour, and CAVS director Rand German.

Engineers help launch armored vehicle plant Mississippi State engineers are providing vital support in the design and start-up of a new West Point industry that soon will begin manufacturing cabs for armored vehicles. The Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems is helping Griffin Inc. transform 150,000 square feet of available space in the former Babcock & Wilcox facility into a plant that will produce armored cabs for International Truck and Engine Corp. Engineers at the CAVS Extension facility in Canton designed the manufacturing facility and will help implement production systems.

While there are clear benefits associated with controlled burns, a Mississippi State researcher said potential risks from the process have resulted in revised state liability laws. Benefits of prescribed fires include a reduction in the fuel available for wildfires, vegetation control and wildlife habitat enhancement, said Edwin Sun, assistant professor of forest policy in the university’s Forest and Wildlife Research Center. Today, however, landowners and public agencies face a number of factors that limit the use of prescribed fires. In a recent research report funded by the federal McIntire-Stennis Cooperative Forestry Research Program, Sun examined these statutory changes. Strict liability, simple negligence and gross negligence, along with the related laws currently in place in Southern states, were examined in his study. Sun said that, overall, Mississippi’s legislation for prescribed burning is beneficial for landowners. “The demand for prescribed fires has driven state liability laws toward lighter liability burdens on forest landowners using the practice,” he observed.

During spring semester work, construction company employee Tommy Forrester of Columbus uncovered bricks from the footing of historic Old Main Dormitory. Destroyed by fire in 1959, the 512-room student residence now is the site of McCool Hall, home to the College of Business and Industry. The 31-year-old McCool is undergoing a major expansion.

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CAMPUS news Lab developing UAV for battlefield, border operations Mississippi State’s Raspet Flight Research Laboratory is developing an ultra-light, long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle designed to improve U.S. surveillance and communication capabilities for battlefield and border-patrol operations. Ground tests and initial manned flight-testing of the UAV prototype—called the Owl because of its quietness—were completed during 2005. Located at Starkville’s Bryan Field, the university’s well-known research lab is moving forward with plans to begin flight-testing the concept demonstrator later this summer. “This program ultimately will result in a platform that can stay aloft for more than 24 hours and eventually be flown at altitudes up to 65,000 feet,” said Raspet Director David Lawrence. “Its primary mission is to improve communications on the battlefield, but it may spin off a vehicle for other missions such as homeland security and border patrol.” With the support and leadership of U.S. Rep. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and other members of Mississippi’s congressional delegation, the Ultra Light Sensor Platform Research Project was funded initially with $3 million in the Fiscal Year 2005 Defense Appropriations Bill. The funding was channeled through the Advanced Technology Directorate of the U.S. Army’s Space Missile Defense Command in Huntsville, Ala., and a program review was completed last fall. More recently, the university has received $8 million in additional funding for 2006. The new money includes $2.8 million for the Ultra Light Sensor Platform project and $5.2 million for an MSU-operated UAV test bed.

David Lawrence, director of the Raspet Flight Research Laboratory, shows off a model of the Owl, now under development at the lab.

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Although the threat of rain forced the groundbreaking ceremony inside, construction of the new, much-anticipated 18,000-square-foot university band and choral rehearsal hall should go according to plan. The new facility will include practice areas, as well as room for storage and two music libraries. Construction will begin this summer, with an anticipated 2007 completion. In use for decades, the current band hall is a renovated campus maintenance building with only about 4,100 square feet of assignable space when constructed in 1939.

MSU helping balance nature, military readiness When the petite blonde researcher from Mississippi State speaks, even heavy artillery and tank commanders listen. Since 1987, Jeanne Jones has been helping the military with techniques that create harmony between military training and natural resources conservation. While erosion control was the initial focus on more than 280,000 acres of U.S. Department of Defense lands, the enhancement of wildlife habitat and diversity has been the associate professor of wildlife and fisheries’ primary mission during her years at the university. From her work over time, the Vicksburg native and a team of MSU graduate students under her direction have developed what is known as Integrated Natural Resource Management Plans. Their clients include the U.S. departments of the Army and Navy, as well as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and Mississippi Army National Guard. “Our research on restoration ecology and conservation has been used extensively by the DoD to meet the natural resource and conservation demands of a diverse public, while maintaining lands on which to accomplish the military training mission,” Jones explained.

CAMPUS news Clifford named budget director

The President’s Commission on the Status of Women presented the 2006 outstanding women awards to six members of the MSU community. They are (left to right) Lyndsay Roberts, Jan Batchelder Memorial Outstanding Undergraduate Woman; Tonya Thornton-Neaves, Outstanding Graduate Woman; Donna Bland, Bettye Douglas Memorial Outstanding Secretarial/Clerical Woman; Pat Lee, Outstanding Mississippi Woman; Donna Reese, Outstanding Executive, Administrative, Managerial Woman; Connie Forde, Outstanding Faculty Woman; and Libby Thompson, Outstanding Non-Faculty Woman.

A former Starkville resident and Mississippi State accounting graduate has returned as the university’s budget and finance director. Christopher B. Clifford formerly was manager of global financial planning and analysis for synthetic business with ExxonMobil Chemical Co. In his new role, he provides leadership and oversight to operations of the controller’s and treasurer’s office, as well as the accounts payable and travel, procurement and contracts, and receiving and property control departments. Clifford received a bachelor’s degree in professional accountancy in 1990. In 1996, Clifford completed a master’s in business administration from Dartmouth College’s Tuck School of Business.

Art, music instruments show cultural history in museum Providing a journey through more than 100 years, a new museum traces musical eras from ragtime through the show tunes of Irving Berlin. The Charles H. Templeton Sr. Music Museum on the fourth floor of Mitchell Memorial Library explores the culture, history and business of music during its transition to a popular commercial me- dium. The recent renovation of a display area in the library was made possible by a gift from Templeton’s widow, Mary Ann Templeton of Starkville.

“This collection has proven to be of interest to scholars around the world,” said Dean of Libraries Frances N. Coleman. “With the opening of the museum in the library, the Templeton ‘Business of Music’ collection will provide a unique opportunity to introduce this remarkable cultural history to even more music patrons.” Charles Templeton amassed his collection from the 1950s until his death in 2000. It includes more than 22,000 pieces of sheet music, 15,000 recordings and nearly 200 instruments ranging from Thomas

Edison’s early model phonographs to a vintage Link player piano. As a whole, the collection illustrates what Templeton described as “the business of music”—the popularization and mass production of music for commercial distribution. The library also is continuing an ongoing project to digitize the entire sheet music collection. Currently, more than 2,000 pieces are available on the Internet at library.msstate.edu/ content/templates/?a=1030 to scholars worldwide. The Templeton Museum is open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. More information about the collection and museum may be found online at library.msstate.edu/templeton.

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CAMPUS news Planners propose ‘coastal paradise’ for Mississippi beachfront Thoughtful, long-term planning today could transform the hurricane-battered Mississippi Gulf Coast of tomorrow into an environmentally friendly “coastal paradise” or “Central Park of the Deep South.” So say 150 Mississippi State students who participated in a recent, weeklong exploration of coastal reconstruction issues stemming from last summer’s Hurricane Katrina, arguably the worst natural disaster in U.S. history. “The primary goal of the charrette was as an educational exercise for the students; however, we will be sending copies of the report to local and state officials,” said Jason B. Walker, an assistant professor of landscape architecture and coordinator of the January event. A report stemming from the charrette—another name for an architectural brainstorming session—included recommendations to: —Begin establishing a “coastal paradise” by moving the main CSX railroad freight line and U.S. Highway 90 inland to protect them from future weather catastrophes. —Create a 75-mile Mississippi coastline punctuated with scenic pockets of open space and parklands in some areas to contrast clusters of urban development at other, more protected locations, while restoring much of the area’s natural ecology. —Edge the northern side of the half-mile-deep beachfront buffer zone with a commuter rail system away from the water, using the existing freight rail tracks to serve both the new parklands and urban developments. —Develop inland growth centers to attract property owners away from the beach. —Provide transit centers every five or six miles along the new commuter rail system, served by loop roads from the highway or train to the beachfront. —Ensure a more environmentally friendly and scenic beachfront seascape by revegetating the area with live oak trees, maritime systems and salt marshes. The charrette was organized by the Denver, Colo.-based Design Workshop Inc. in partnership with MSU’s landscape architecture department. Leading the effort was Design Workshop’s chief design officer, Todd Johnson, founding partner Don Ensign and landscape architect Jeremiah Dumas, a Prentiss native and MSU alumnus.

MSU, Air Force partner to provide freshman engineering scholarships Mississippi State is partnering with the U.S. Air Force to provide scholarships for incoming freshmen in the electrical and computer engineering department. Through the Air Force Scientist and Engineer Career Program, Florida-based Eglin Air Force Base is providing $5,000 in scholarship money. The MSU department will add $1,000 to the amount to

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provide $2,000 per year in scholarships over three years. Scholarships will be awarded annually to two incoming freshmen—one electrical engineering major and one computer engineering major. The scholarships will provide $500 per recipient for each of the fall and spring semesters.

Lindley and Spencer

New police leaders make school history Georgia B. Lindley, who has been assistant chief since 2000 and interim chief since June 2005, were named formally as the Mississippi State University Police Department’s top officer. Capt. Kenneth L. Spencer, the patrol and investigation leader serving as interim assistant chief during the nine-month period, now is officially second in command of the university’s 30-person, full-service law enforcement agency. “We take great pride in announcing that two veteran members of the MSU Police Department are continuing their leadership there at the highest levels,” said Dean of Students Mike White in making the announcement. White said Lindley is the first female to lead law enforcement at the 128-year-old land-grant institution that is Mississippi’s largest university. She becomes the fifth director of what was the MSU Security Department before it earned official police department status in the 1960s. Spencer is the first AfricanAmerican to hold the rank of assistant chief. He is among eight minority members of the department. Both Lindley and Spencer are Mississippi State graduates. Lindley also completed a master’s degree at the university.

CAMPUS news MSU to help develop Earth science research database for NASA Mississippi State will use a $9.6 million federal grant to help NASA develop a stronger and more accessible Earth science research database for use by a wide variety of U.S. governmental agencies. Armed with the funding from NASA’s Applied Sciences Directorate, the university’s GeoResources Institute is marshaling its geospatial technology expertise to help build a computerized, one-stop data resource. It could have global research impacts on such diverse issues as climate change, bioterrorism, transportation, and population trends. “We are using high-performance computing, remote sensing, rapid prototyping, geographic information systems, global positioning systems and 3-D landscaping visualization capabilities that will come together in a very complementary way,” said GRI director David Shaw, co-principal investigator for the grant. “They are looking for a data system that will be globally accessible, globally searchable—sort of a ‘Google’ for NASA research,” he added. “At the end of the twoyear grant period, we expect to have this system fully stood up and operational.” Also providing support for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration project are the University of Mississippi’s Geoinformatics Center, and a team from the Stennis Space Center comprised of the Institute for Technology Development and Science Systems and Applications Inc.

During Mississippi State’s 2006 Faculty Awards and Recognition Program, two faculty members received university-wide honors. Arthur G. Cosby (l) was named a William L. Giles Distinguished Professor, while Keith Koenig received the John Grisham Master Teacher Award. Cosby is director of the Social Science Research Center; and Koenig, an aerospace engineering professor.

Black legislative gains traced in new book

Judge Frank J. Williams (c), chief justice of the Rhode Island Supreme Court, received the 2006 Distinguished Jurist Award of MSU’s Pre-Law Society. Williams is the 30th member of America’s legal profession to be honored by the student organization. Extending congratulations at the ceremony were society president John Grant and faculty adviser Diane Wall.

A new book edited by a Mississippi State political scientist and a former university colleague casts some highly trained academic eyes on the dramatic growth of African-American representation in Southern legislatures. “Politics in the New South” is the work of professor Stephen D. Shaffer and Charles E. Menifield, a former faculty member in MSU’s department of political science and public administration. Menifield now is an associate professor at the University of Memphis. A publication of the State University of New York Press, the book is the latest volume in the SUNY Series in AfricanAmerican Studies. “Politics” examines how Southern blacks have achieved noticeable statelevel power since Congress passed the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

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CAMPUS news S T A T E

A widely recognized Mississippi State sociologist is a new member of a national committee advising the U.S. agriculture secretary. Frank M. Howell, an authority on social statistics, is among nine new members recently appointed by Secretary Mike Johanns to serve a two-year term on the Advisory Committee on Agriculture Statistics. The 25-member body represents a broad range of disciplines and interests and advises the agriculture secretary on issues related to the Census of Agriculture, a survey conducted every five years, most recently in 2002.

English professor and scholar Noel Polk is a 2006 winner of the Richard Wright Literary Excellence Award. A specialist in American fiction and noted authority on the works of Mississippi writers William Faulkner and Eudora Welty, the Picayune joined the English department in 2004. He currently serves as editor of the Mississippi Quarterly. The award was established by the Natchez-based organization in 1994 to honor the internationally known author, Richard Wright, who was born near Natchez in 1908. Wright, who died in 1960, authored such novels as “Native Son” and “Black Boy.”

Three Mississippi State faculty members were inducted into the Bagley College of Engineering’s Academy of Fellows during spring semester. They include chemical engineering professor Clifford E. George, who became a Fellow of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers in 2005; mechanical engineering professor Randall M. German, director of the Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems, named a Fellow for both the American Society for Metals International and American Powder Metallurgy Institute 32

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International in 1989 and 1998, respectively; and civil engineering professor James L. Martin, selected as an American Society of Civil Engineers Fellow, also in 2005.

Sarah Elizabeth Mistak, a Maryville, Tenn., native who is pursing a master’s degree in archaelogy, is the 2006 winner of a Dienje Kenyon Fellowship. Bestowed formally in April by the Society for American Archaeology, the national award is given annually to a female graduate student involved in zooarchaeological research. Mistak’s thesis thesis research will use archaeological shellfish remains to probe past climatic change.

While a growing majority of Americans favor smoking restrictions in public places, many adults still expose their children to significant health risks by puffing tobacco at home, a Mississippi State researcher reports. In a scientific paper presented recently at the annual meeting of the Pediatric Academic Societies in San Francisco, Robert McMillen cited changes in adult attitudes and behaviors over the past six years regarding secondhand smoke. McMillen’s report, “Changes from 2000 to 2005 in U.S. Adult Attitudes and Practices Regarding Children’s Exposure to Secondhand Smoke,” stems from his comprehensive 2000 National Social Climate Survey of Tobacco Control. “The vast majority of adults in 2005—97 percent—recognized the dangers of exposure to secondhand smoke from parental smoking,” McMillen wrote. “Yet, a 10th of households—10 percent—allows indoor smoking in the presence of children.” “While they demonstrate significant improvement in many indicators of adult attitudes and practices, homes

serve as settings for intense secondhand smoke exposure, and many public settings that children frequent still are not smoke free,” he observed.

A science-focused campus organization is receiving a national award from an affiliate of the American Institute of Physics. The Society of Physics Students chapter recently was honored with a 2006 Marsh W. White Award by the national SPS organization for its proposal to promote the study and profession of physics. The award was accompanied by an approximately $300 check to support outreach activities to area high school students and the general public.

The James W. Bagley College of Engineering has honored 10 alumni for career accomplishments and personal contributions to the engineering community. The college bestowed the title of Distinguished Fellow on Stephen K. Ball of Nashville, Tenn.; William W. Bunker of Little Rock, Ark.; Thomas M. Gladney of Houston, Texas; Carl B. Mack of Ft. Washington, Md.; Wade C. Patterson of Huntsville, Ala.; Richard A. Rula of Jackson; William G. Shira of Savannah, Ga.; Joe C. Turnage of Edgewater, Md.; Lashell M. Vaughn of Memphis, Tenn.; and Kenneth A. Williams of The Woodlands, Texas.

Diane Daniels, a mathematics instructor on the Starkville campus, and Regena Clark, academic advising coordinator for the Meridian campus, received Mississippi State’s 2006 Irvin Atley Jefcoat Excellence in Advising Awards. The awards annually recognize faculty and staff members with a

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demonstrated commitment to the academic counseling of students.

student selected for the recognition since 1999.

A Mississippi State graduate engineering student is an award winner for his visual display explaining how natural disasters or terrorist attacks might disrupt the nation’s highway transportation system. Michael A. Hamilton of Louin won first place in the Alliance for Graduate Education in Mississippi 2006 Winter Scholar Symposium poster competition. He competed against other Mississippi university students in the computer science, mathematics and physics division.

A new student travel scholarship fund being established will honor a longtime biological sciences faculty member who now is a professor emeritus. Armando A. de la Cruz of Starkville, who taught at the university 1970-2000, is establishing a fund that will assist undergraduate and graduate students in attending national and international meetings, said Nara Gavini, biological sciences department head.

Two Mississippi State electrical engineering majors are among only 32 students nationwide selected for a prestigious summer internship program of the U.S. Air Force. Nicole C. McGee of Muscle Shoals, Ala., and Theodore R. “Ted” Copeland of Olive Branch will participate in the Air Force Officer Accession and Training Schools Summer Technical Recruiting Internship Program. The juniors were nominated for the honor by Kirk Schulz, dean of MSU’s Bagley College of Engineering.

A computer engineering major with a perfect 4.0 grade-point average is Mississippi State’s latest Barry M. Goldwater Scholar. Junior Wesley J. Holland of Brandon is among only 323 students selected nationally on the basis of their academic accomplishments in mathematics, science and engineering. More than 1,000 students were nominated for the 2006 awards by collegiate faculty members. Holland, a 2004 Florence High School graduate, becomes the 10th MSU

Research vice president Colin G. Scanes is a new board member of the Oak Ridge Associated Universities, a consortium of nearly 100 doctoralgranting member institutions across the country. A scientist with a national and international reputation in biotechnology, Scanes has served as MSU’s vice president for research and graduate studies since 2004. He is beginning a two-year term on the ORAU board.

Industrial engineering professor Allen Greenwood is a newly elected member of the Global Engineering Education Exchange’s executive committee. The Global E3 is a consortium of leading universities around the world that provides opportunities for students at member institutions to receive academic credit for courses taken at an overseas institution. Participating students also receive practical training in a foreign setting for a summer, semester or academic year.

A new faculty member will receive major recognitions in coming months for his research into the potential

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relationships between video games and violence. Kevin D. Williams, an assistant professor in the communication department, is being honored with the Broadcast Education Association’s 2006 Best Doctoral Dissertation Award. The award and accompanying cash prize was presented at the national organization’s annual convention. Also, a research paper derived from his doctoral-degree research at the University of Georgia is being recognized as the top faculty paper submitted for the International Communication Association’s convention this summer in Dresden, Germany. This honor also includes a cash prize.

Geosciences department head Darrel Schmitz is the new president of the Association of Environmental and Engineering Geologists. A Eupora native, 1980 MSU geology graduate and geology professor, Schmitz was installed as the international organization’s new leader during its annual meeting in Las Vegas, Nev. He succeeds David Bieber of Rancho Cordova, Calif.

Based on the latest published results, Mississippi State accounting graduates lead the state in pass rates for the certified public accounting examination. Danny P. Hollingsworth, the university’s School of Accountancy director, said the recently published National State Boards of Public Accountancy report for 2004 also shows MSU graduates exceeding the national average passing percentage. “The national average for all students was 6.1 percent, while the average for all students from Mississippi universities was 4 percent,” Hollingsworth said. A Summer 2006

CAMPUS news Riley Center opening set for September In September, the doors will open on the Mississippi State University Riley Center for Education and Performing Arts. Located in the heart of Meridian’s historic downtown, the center will be a fully functioning performing arts and conference facility. The versatile center will feature the latest technology expected in modern facilities of today, but that is where the similarities end. Part of what makes the center so unique is the stunning architectural features, including complete restoration of the Grand Opera House of Mississippi and preservation of the exterior of the Marks-Rothenberg department store, both of which were constructed in 1889. From the outside, one immediately notices the stunning windows of all shapes and sizes on each floor. Once inside, the theater’s exquisite detail and craftsmanship is clearly evident. The rich aesthetics and unique setting of the MSU Riley Center create a highly memorable experience for all visitors, a far cry from the all too generic conference centers of today. The space itself is only half the story. What really makes the Riley Center special is what will happen within its walls. More than just a stunning facility, the center is committed to entertain, enrich and further lifelong learning for individuals and groups. The center has three core components—performing arts center, educational center and conference center—and they each feed and interact with the other. From a performing arts standpoint, the center will present more than 60 performances a year, including a diverse

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offering of music, dance, theatre, comedy, and world cultural shows. Patrons will have the option of purchasing season ticket packages, series packages or tickets to individual performances. Select artists will participate in residency programs and workshops targeting area schools, as well as students at Mississippi State’s Starkville and Meridian campuses. To further the center’s commitment to education, teacher training in the area of arts education will be provided, as well as curriculum-based performing arts programs for school-age children. Members of associations, business leaders and the general public who attend performing arts events will be exposed to the center’s conference space and capabilities, making them prime candidates for future conference business. Likewise, conference attendees will have the option to see a show that corresponds with their conference dates. Conservative estimates predict 60,000-plus visitors will come to the center annually to attend performances, conferences and workshops. The center anticipates significant media coverage for its September opening, in addition to ongoing coverage of its impact and involvement in downtown revitalization, historic preservation, cultural tourism, and arts education. As people come to learn about and visit the MSU Riley Center from across the state and the region, they will also learn about and build an affinity for Mississippi State. Clearly, the center represents a valuable outreach tool for the university.

SPORTS talk Smith named to MSU football staff Melvin Smith joined the football coaching staff early this year, returning to the Scott Field sideline for the first time since 2001. “I am excited that I can add someone with the character and experience of Melvin Smith to our coaching staff,” head football coach Sylvester Croom said. “He shares the vision that this staff has in building this program to a championship level.” For Smith, 48, returning to MSU is a homecoming. A native of Taylorsville who grew up in Magee, Smith was an assistant football coach at MSU for seven years (1995-2001), helping guide the Bulldogs through arguably the greatest period in the school’s football history. The 24-year coaching veteran has spent 20 of those years working in the Magnolia State. Smith comes to Mississippi State following three seasons at Texas A&M, where he coached the safeties. During his tenure in College Station, Texas, Smith helped the Aggies to a 7-4 regular season record in 2004 and a berth in the 2005 Cotton Bowl. Prior to his stint at A&M and immediately following his seven years at MSU, Smith coached the safeties at Alabama in 2002. That Crimson Tide team posted a 10-3 regular season record that year. Smith’s specific position responsibility, so far on Croom’s coaching staf, has been the defensive backfield. Smith has shown an ability to teach on both sides of the ball, however, having served six seasons as a defensive backfield coach following one year as the wide receivers

coach during his initial stay in Starkville. He tutored the likes of current National Football League cornerback Fred Smoot and longtime pro standout wide receiver Eric Moulds during that time. In 2000, three of his four defensive backfield starters signed professional football contracts. That secondary intercepted 19 passes, the second-most in school history. One year earlier, Smith’s secondary led the Southeastern Conference in pass defense and finished the season ranked fourth nationally in that department. In 1998, his troops were the last NCAA Division I unit to allow a touchdown through the air (week five).

From 1997-2000, Mississippi State posted a 33-15 overall record, 20-12 in the Southeastern Conference. The 1998 team won the SEC Western Division championship and played eventual national champion Tennessee in the SEC title game in Atlanta. That team culminated the year with a berth in the 1999 Cotton Bowl. In 1999, MSU finished 102, defeating Clemson in the ’99 Peach Bowl. The 2000 Bulldog team won eight games and beat Texas A&M in the Independence Bowl. Smith also coached on the collegiate level in Mississippi at the University of Mississippi (1992-94) and Delta State University (1990-91). He began his coaching career on the high school level at Greenwood 1982-89. Smith holds a ’92 master’s degree in administration from Delta State and a bachelor’s degree in health and physical education from Millsaps College.

Croom reorganizes football coaching staff Head football coach Sylvester Croom realigned his coaching staff following the addition of assistant Melvin Smith. Smith, who coached the safeties for three seasons at Texas A&M, was in charge of the entire defensive backfield when spring drills began in March. Shane Beamer, who has served on Croom’s staff as cornerbacks coach, will now tutor the running backs while maintaining his role as the staff

recruiting coordinator. Beamer previously worked on the offensive side of the ball as a graduate assistant at Georgia Tech in 2000. Defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson, who previously worked with the safeties, will now devote his specific positional attention to middle and weak-side linebackers. Amos Jones will continue his role as special teams coach and will instruct the strong-side linebackers.

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SPORTS talk Athletics program certified by NCAA Mississippi State’s athletics program was certified this spring by the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s Division I Committee on Athletics Certification.

MSU was among 27 Division I member institutions that have undergone the NCAA’s second cycle of athletics certification.

Game Day Web site continues Again this fall, two computer-based programs will continue informing university football fans and others about the many campus activities scheduled during this season’s home football game weekends. The MSU Game Day Web site— www.gameday.msstate.edu—is designed to be a “one-stop directory of activities” that includes hours of operation, contact persons and other key information. Where available, a link will be provided for activities with separate Web addresses. Only on-campus entities may contribute information to the site. The athletics department also hosts a game day Web site. Access it by opening the athletics home page at mstateathletics.com. From there, click on the “Fan Attic” button at the top, then on “Visitor’s Guide.” Once the guide page has opened, scroll down to Gameday Guide and click on “MSU Gameday (MSU Athletics).” The athletics site contains information about the opposing team, radio and/or broadcasts and special events, among other tidbits.

Construction complete

The $3.8 million Palmeiro Center and Bryce Griffis Boardroom opened its doors during spring semester. The baseball and football practice facility was made possible, in part, through a lead gift by former Diamond Dawg and major leaguer Rafael Palmeiro and his wife Lynne. 36

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The association certifies athletics programs to ensure integrity and to assist institutions in improving their athletics departments. NCAA legislation mandating athletics certification was adopted in 1993. The certification process, which involves a self-study led by an institution’s president or chancellor, includes a review of these primary components: governance and commitment to rules compliance; academic integrity; equity; and student-athlete well-being. A designation of certified means that an institution operates its athletics program in substantial conformity with operating principles adopted by the Division I membership. The second round of athletics certifications is being completed on a 10-year cycle rather than the five-year cycle used during the initial certification process. All 326 active Division I members participate in the certification process. The Division I Committee on Athletics Certification preliminarily reviews an institution’s certification materials and provides a list of issues identified during the evaluation. The university then hosts a visit by peer reviewers who file a report regarding the institution’s resolution of those issues before a final certification decision is rendered. An institution’s failure to satisfactorily respond to the committee may negatively impact certification status. The certification process is separate from the NCAA’s enforcement program, which investigates allegations of rules violations by NCAA member institutions. A decision of certified does not exempt an institution from concurrent or subsequent enforcement proceedings. The University of Arkansas was the only other Southeastern Conference school receiving certification.

ALUMNI news A Letter from Joe Bryan Thank you for allowing me to serve as national president of the Mississippi State University Alumni Association for the past year. It has truly been an honor and privilege. I have been able to attend more than 40 alumni events and several related functions. We have some of the greatest people as alumni and friends of the university. Our Alumni Association has an outstanding and dedicated staff with unparalleled leadership under Dr. Jimmy Abraham. He has unbelievable energy and is in the process of making changes that will bring the alumni, students, friends, and staff together to build on the sound foundation left by leaders like Charles Weatherly, Steve Grafton, and John Correro. I am excited about the great things in store for us in the future. As Dr. Charles Lee and his lovely wife Pat closed out their tenure in April, we must thank them for their outstanding leadership and dedicated service. They provided unselfishly to see that the university not only survived during trying times, but also prospered. We will be forever indebted to them and wish them much happiness in retirement and future endeavors. I am convinced that Mississippi State University is on the verge of greatness and will become the lead land-grant institution in the Southeast. We have the facilities now, or under construction. We have the leadership on campus, and in key positions. We also have the programs. All that is needed is for us—as alumni, students, and friends—to unite and support the efforts of the entire university. I am also excited about our 18th president, Dr. Robert H. “Doc” Foglesong. It is evident that he has many outstanding characteristics that will enable him to be the leader we need at this critical time. I urge you to get to know him and support him and the university as we move forward. Again, let me thank you for letting me serve as your president. We need for you to be an active participant as we move forward. I hope to see you at an alumni function this summer.

Alumni Association installs new officers Betty Latimer Black of Starkville became national president of the MSU Alumni Association July 1. A 1974 music education graduate, she has served as Lee County Chapter director since 1998. Black succeeds Joe L. Bryan of Yazoo City, a 1963 agricultural economics graduate and senior vice president of the Bank of Yazoo City. Bryan now holds the title of immediate past president. Other newly elected 2006-07 officers are: David W. Jones of Jackson, national first vice president. A 1981 accounting graduate and first vice president and IS auditor manager for Trustmark National Bank, he previously was second vice president for the association. Andrew D. Hunt of Hattiesburg, national second vice president. A 1970 graduate, he is owner of Hunt Insurance Agency. S. Keith Winfield of Starkville, national treasurer. A 1970 business graduate, he is a partner of Watkins, Ward and Stafford accounting firm. The new slate of officers will serve the university’s more than 94,000 alumni through June 2007.

Joe L. Bryan, ’63 2005-06 National President MSU Alumni Association

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ALUMNI news

WELCOME CLASS OF 1936 CLASS OF 1951 Members of the Mississippi State graduating classes of 1936, 1941, 1951, 1956, and 1981 returned to campus in April to hold reunions in conjunction with Super Bulldog Weekend activities.

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ALUMNI news

CLASS OF 1956 The MSU Alumni Association honored the returning alumni with an array of activities.

CLASS OF 1981

HOME!

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ALUMNI news Show your pride with an

MSU class ring Reese receives Undergraduate Teaching Award Robert B. Reese (center), associate professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, is the 2006 recipient of the Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award, presented by the MSU Alumni Association. Reese, a 1985 doctoral graduate of Texas A&M University, joined the MSU faculty in 1988. Last year, he received the Bagley College of Engineering’s Outstanding Engineering Educator Award. Congratulating him are outgoing Alumni Association National President Joe L. Bryan (left) and Jimmy Abraham, association executive director.

What’s going on? Check out our Web site at www.alumni.msstate.edu for a frequently updated calendar of alumni events.

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Tradition is a special part of the Mississippi State experience. Thousands of MSU alumni show their devotion to the university every day by proudly wearing an official MSU class ring. By ordering yours today, you, too, can show the world your pride in your alma mater. The distinctive ring features the university name, date of its founding, your graduation year and degree letters, and any engraving you wish on the inside of the ring. The class ring contains a brilliant garnet (maroon) stone and is available in mens’ and ladies’ designs in 10, 14, or 18-karat white or yellow gold. For more information or to order your official Mississippi State class ring, call 1-800-BALFOUR or visit www. balfourcollege.com.

ALUMNI news Want to make your newest addition an official You can receive a “Future Bulldog” certificate for your son or daughter by simply calling the Office of Admissions and Scholarships at 662-325-2224, by e-mailing admit@msstate.edu, or visiting http://msuinfo.ur.msstate.edu/friends/ futurebulldog.html.

BULLDOG? You must include the child’s full name, your address, and the year he or she will be a freshman at Mississippi State. Start your Bulldog traditions now.

Cruise the Majestic Passage on the Mosel, Rhine and Neckar rivers September 4-12, 2006 The fare is approximately $2,145 per person, plus air, based on double occupancy. Value-added tax is an additional $125 per person, subject to change. Winding their way through valleys blanketed with vineyards and hills crowned with castles, the Mosel, Rhine and Neckar rivers flow through some of the most idyllic countryside in Europe. Experience these legendary waterways during the grape harvest season and sample local vintages at an exclusive wine tasting. Embark the deluxe MS Switzerland in medieval Cochem, Germany. From ancient Koblenz, sail past charming villages filled with half-timbered houses on cobblestoned streets. Marvel at the display of historic treasures in Mainz’s Gutenberg Museum and voyage through the scenic splendor of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Martin Luther’s spired city of Worms. Set out to explore romantic Heidelberg and the spa town of Bad Wimpfen before concluding in baroque Ludwigsburg. For more information, contact Alumni Holidays International at 800-323-7373 or Libba Andrews at 662-325-3479 or landrews@alumni.msstate.edu .

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FOUNDATION news Matching gifts can strengthen your impact When Anthony Thomas, a diehard Bulldog fan and vice president of AmSouth Bank in Jackson, wanted to provide financial support for his alma mater, he drew on all available resources. Knowing that Mississippi State sought scholarship money to support students, he saw a chance to make a contribution that would matter. He and his wife Sheryl established the Anthony Thomas Annual Scholarship in Business, which aids students in need of financial assistance—and they received help from AmSouth in realizing their dream. The company’s matching gift program enabled the Thomas family to expand the amount of their contribution. “The matching gift program is a wonderful program which allows one to get more mileage out of gifts, whether to a university or a charity,” Thomas said. “I consider matching gifts a tremendous benefit at my bank.” Like Thomas, MSU alumna Carolyn Pilgreen also discovered that her company’s matching gift program boosted her giving power and allowed her contributions to have a greater impact on many lives. Resource adviser in the Information Technology Co. for Chevron, she—along with her mother and sister—established the A.C. Pilgreen Memorial Endowed Scholarship in honor of her late father. The scholarship is designed to aid deserving students from Calhoun County. “Being able to use the matching gift program has not made a difference in the fact that I give, but it is a huge encouragement to know that what I am able to give on my own can actually be larger with this opportunity,” Pilgreen explained. “Not having this opportunity wouldn’t prevent me from giving, but it is an added bonus.” For the Pilgreen family, it is especially significant that their scholarship allows students to attend Mississippi 42

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State who otherwise might not have had the resources for college. “My father was able to continue his education because of the G.I. Bill,” Pilgreen said. “Without that opportunity, he would not have been able to attend college. My father was very proud that he graduated from MSU, and he wanted others like him to have the same opportunity.” Through the assistance of her company’s matching gifts program, she said “our scholarship fund is more than we would ever be able to do on our own. The amount of the scholarship is able to build faster because of this program.”

Because her mother continues to live in Calhoun County, the family is able to see firsthand the true impact their scholarship has on recipients. Pilgreen’s mother often knows the recipients or their families personally, reinforcing the family’s commitment to the scholarship and to those who receive it. If you would like to learn more about the matching gift program and how you and your company can become involved, please telephone Cathy Lammons, director of donor relations, at 662-3257843, or e-mail clammons@foundation.msstate.edu.

FAST FACTS about Matching Gifts

• If you work for an employer that participates in a matching gift program, you may be able to double or even triple your contribution to Mississippi State. • A matching gift can strengthen your impact on contributions given to scholarships, technology upgrades, program enhancements, and other areas. • Mississippi State received more than $534,000 from matching gift companies in 2005. • The top five matching gift companies who contributed to Mississippi State in 2005 were: Burlington Resources ExxonMobil Mississippi Power Co. Entergy Corp. State Farm Companies • To take advantage of matching gifts, simply check with your company’s human resource department to see if your employer matches contributions made by employees.

FOUNDATION news Bulldog Forest program creates a living legacy Owning land provides individuals and families with roots, continuity and stability. Land ownership also carries a responsibility to wisely manage and pass the land on to future generations. A program at Mississippi State— the Bulldog Forest—allows landowners to meet that responsibility while creating a lasting heritage by giving land to the College of Forest Resources. Tom and Page Harris of Newton were among the first donors to take advantage of the new Bulldog Forest program. “I was getting older, and it was hard for me to manage the land,” said land donor and MSU alumnus Tom Harris. “The land was handed down to me from my father, and I wanted to give it to the College of Forest Resources for scholarships and to create a legacy for my family.” Forest management professionals at MSU do a careful assessment of each donated property. The Bulldog Forest properties are used as living laboratories where forest management practices provide teaching, research and demonstration opportunities for students of all ages. “Students learn best from hands-on experiences,” said George Hopper, CFR dean. “The Bulldog Forest provides outdoor classrooms, scholarships and new technology for classrooms, as well as helps our faculty with continuing education and professional development.” The college uses the most feasible methods for growth and harvest of timber on donated land, all with consideration of the responsibility to protect the environment. “These sound management practices are, in turn, taught to MSU students in

our forestry, forest products and wildlife and fisheries programs,” Hopper said. A carefully planned gift of forestland also can have financial benefits for donors, including a lifetime income, income tax deductions and partial bypass of capital gains taxes. The Harrises used their forestland to establish the Tom and Page Harris Endowment for Forestry Excellence with the MSU Foundation. Part of their gift funded two charitable gift annuities, which provide them a guaranteed fixed income for both of their lives. The couple received an income tax deduction at the time they made their gift and also receive partial tax-free payments. Other land owners who have designated their land as a Bulldog Forest have benefited from tax advantages as well. “I gave my land to Mississippi State for estate planning, looking to the future for me and my family,” said retired Col. K.D. Johnson of Ridgeland. “I gave it now for the tax advantages instead of giving at my death when I would get no tax advantages.”

Gifts to the Bulldog Forest also are an investment in the future of Mississippi State students. “My education and career were made possible because someone joined the Bulldog Forest program and gave me an opportunity to pursue my passion,” said Austin Carroll, wildlife manager for International Paper and a Mississippi State alumnus. A gift of land can secure an individual’s financial future and create a legacy, as each unique property in the Bulldog Forest retains the family name. “We wanted to be good stewards of our inheritance, so we donated the land to Mississippi State hoping it could be used for environmental studies,” said Mary Corinne White Shaw, MSU alumna and land donor from Kosciusko. “We hope other individuals will join the Bulldog Forest and grow a legacy for future generations.” The college and the MSU Foundation work with landowners and their professional financial planners to arrange the terms of gifts to suit individual needs. For more information, visit www.cfr.msstate.edu/bulldogforest/.

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RECEIVE UP TO 11.3%.* MSU Gift Annuities are a great way to support Mississippi State – 44

and your portfolio. Your investment produces a tax deduction, and you also receive a guaranteed competitive return as long as you live. Then, MSU uses the remaining assets to improve the quality of education. In today’s market, that’s really something to cheer about. Call 877-677-8283 or visit www.msufoundation.com for more information.

Summer 2006 *Rates are based upon age and are subject to change. Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity employer.

MSU Gift Annuities may not be available in all states.

MSUGIFT ANNUITY

FOUNDATION news Henry maps out a future gift to university Although she is not an alumna of Mississippi State, Lila Harlow Henry has developed a deep appreciation for the university. Now, that affection will forever endure thanks in part to a generous $2 million bequest of future support. Estate planning is something one would expect from Lila. Typically, she isn’t one to leave things to chance. She always is on a quest for answers, exploring several paths before settling on the “right” one—forever looking toward the future with zeal. Probably one of the most spontaneous things she’s ever done was agreeing to a “blind” date with Hunter W. Lila Henry, front center, with husband Hunter, sons Robert, Ticket, and James, and their wives, Elaine and Kitty. Henry Jr., an MSU chemical engineering graduate and Canton native, on New Year’s Eve 1950. husband as he pursued a 42-year career The experiment was love at first “I had a photo of her, but she didn’t with Dow Chemical Co. before retiring sight, and the couple married the have one of me,” he fondly recalls. “I as Dow Chemical USA’s president. following year. think it worked out all right that way,” Journeying with Hunter throughout During the early years of her marhe laughs. the United States, the Netherlands and riage, she circled the globe with her continued next page

Donor-advised funds: worth the exploration Lila Henry’s bequest, just as a previous one from Hunter Henry, is being made through the MSU Foundation’s Donor-Advised Fund Program. As with many others, the gift is designated through the separate, nonprofit corporation formed in 2000 and modeled on similar programs

offered by some community foundations and financial brokerage firms. Donor-advised funds are quite common in the private sector. The MSU version works just like those in that donors may make an irrevocable gift to the fund and take an immediate tax deduction, but may wait until later to make final decisions about the distribu-

tion of funds. The gift funds may benefit MSU programs, or they may be directed to other qualified charitable organizations. For more information on donoradvised funds or bequests, contact Vance Bristow at 662-325-7000.

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FOUNDATION news Latin America, Lila worked to turn each new residence into a “home” for their three sons. She taught them the practical things in life—to be self-sufficient and frugal—as well as to be creative. The Henry family finally settled down in San Marcos, Texas. Displayed throughout the house are paintings accumulated during her travels. Outside, she literally has put down roots by landscaping with native plants. Life has been good for Lila Henry, but frugality never escapes her. She still spends much of her time designing her own clothes—drafting patterns and making test garments to achieve that perfect fit. One of the greatest facets of her personality, according to family members, is her curiosity about people and what motivates them. It drives her to look for ways to create opportunities for others, often challenging them to absorb the culture around them– particularly art and literature. An avid reader and a seasoned traveler, she even orients her companions with articles on special attractions. “She’s a great listener and has a knack for drawing things out of people–hopes, dreams and even needs,” explains daughter-in-law Elaine Henry. “Her five grandchildren simply adore her. She’s well-read, well-spoken and never judges them. She lets them express themselves.” Lila Henry is a very private and modest person who never draws attention to herself. Supporting her family, particularly her husband in all his endeavors, is something she has done willingly through the years. That support extends to his alma mater. The Henrys long have been leading Mississippi State supporters. Their commitments to the ongoing State of the Future campaign, of which Hunter is vice chair, exceed $10 million. Their generosity has made possible various faculty enhancements, an

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endowed chair in chemical engineering, a lecture series, and the alumni and foundation building named in Hunter Henry’s honor. The Henrys also support student scholarships in the Bagley College of Engineering, and the colleges of Arts and Sciences and Business and Industry. Lila Henry’s philanthropy also extends to two Texas institutions. Two

scholarships at Southern Methodist University, of which she is an art graduate, bear her name. A generous gift to Lamar University in Beaumont established a dozen scholarships in honor of her relatives. These awards annually support students in nursing, engineering and veterinary medicine. She is a native of Port Arthur.

Retired president, spouse honored with scholarships Dr. J. Charles Lee and his wife Pat recently were honored with a $1 million endowment for presidential scholarships in their names at Mississippi State. A surprise announcement was made during a special campus retirement ceremony that gifts from friends have been used to create the scholarships. The university will begin awarding the Pat and Charles Lee Presidential Endowed Scholarships in the 2006-07 academic year. The Presidential and Schillig Scholarships for the best and brightest students experienced much growth in recent years. Private funding for scholarships is a key component of the university’s ongoing State of the Future campaign, which was publicly launched during Lee’s administration. The scholarships carry with them the promise of a four-year degree of study. Each scholar will receive a total of nearly $50,000 for the freshman-senior years at Mississippi State. Lee became the 17th president of Mississippi State University on January 17, 2003, before retiring in mid-April. He previously served for just over a year as interim president. During his tenure, the university graduated its inaugural class of Presidential Endowed Scholars.

The following individuals, corporations and foundations have made commitments of more than $50,000 from January 1, 2006, through April 30, 2006, for State of the Future: The Mississippi State Campaign. American Trucking Association; Mr. and Mrs. James Worth Bagley; Viola G. Bardsley; Barksdale Reading Institute; Burlington Resources; Citicorp; F & B Catering LLC; Mr. and Mrs. Stephen D. Golding; Mr. and Mrs. James C. Johnson; Mr. and Mrs. Earle F. Jones; Ms.

Marcia P. Lane; Drs. Linda and Rande Lazar ; Mrs. Mary E. Maxwell; Mississippi Veterinar y Medical Association Inc.; Mr. Wayne Rea; Dr. William W. Reeves and Dr. Betty S. Reeves; Mr. and Mrs. Michael W. Sanders; Mr. and Mrs. Leo W. Seal Jr.; Mr. and Mrs. Bobby S. Shackouls; Southern Farm

Bureau Life Insurance Co.; Mr. and Mrs. Dave C. Swalm; Charles D. and ZonaDale Taylor; Union Pacific Resources, W. K. Kellogg Foundation; and Mr. and Mrs. Turner A. Wingo.

STATE OF THE FUTURE: $309 MILLION AND CLIMBING Generous contributions from alumni and friends are breathing new life into the State of the Future campaign at Mississippi State. Campaign counting has surpassed $309 million, and many already on board are increasing their commitments. One such alumnus is Dave Swalm, a 1955 chemical engineering graduate, who made a $3 million gift for graduate fellowships in the Bagley College of Engineering. The gift, his second multimillion-dollar commitment of the campaign, will allow engineering graduates from Jackson State University to pursue graduate education in engi-

neering at MSU and also will benefit JSU students who wish to transfer and pursue an engineering degree not offered there. Swalmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s previous commitment of $5 million was earmarked for scholarships for students from his native Brookhaven who choose to major in a technical field at MSU. The effects of State of the Future are rippling through campus. Among the most recent gifts include the establishment of the first endowed professorships for the colleges of Architecture, Art and Design and Veterinary Medicine. The Cullis Wade Depot is nearing completion and the expansion of McCool Hall is well under way. Program enhancements, such as the

Thad Cochran Endowment for Entrepreneurship, are receiving funds to stimulate economic development. And, gifts earmarked for much-needed scholarships continue to be received through the MSU Foundation. An array of giving opportunities exists through the campaign, and gifts of any size are needed for all areas. Campaign counting toward an announced goal of $400 million began July 1, 2001, and will continue through December 2008. To learn more about the campaign or to make a gift, visit www.msufoundation.com or call toll free 877-677-8283.

A A L L U U MM N N U U S S Summer 2006 Summer 2006

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FRESHMAN YEAR IN SESSUMS HALL • PLAYING FRISBEE ON THE DRILL FIELD • MUSIC MAKERS CONCERT AT THE AMPHITHEATER • STUDYING IN THE STACKS AT MITCHELL MEMORIAL LIBRARY • FRATERNITY ROW AFTER A FOOTBALL GAME • MAROON PLATE AT PERRY CAFETERIA • OLD MAIN BURNING • HAIL STATE • WATCHING TV AT THE UNION • 8:00 CLASS AT HAND LAB • WORLD HISTORY IN ALLEN HALL • ECKIE’S POND • INTRAMURAL FLAG FOOTBALL CHAMPS • MSU VS. ALABAMA • CHAPEL OF MEMORIES • COFFEE AND COOKIES AT THE STATE FOUNTAIN BAKERY • UP ALL NIGHT BEFORE EXAMS • ROAD TRIP TO THE NCAA REGIONALS • CAMPAIGNING FOR SA SENATE • THE FAMOUS MAROON BAND • STEPHEN D. LEE STATUE • EDAM CHEESE • CROSS-CAMPUS HIKE BETWEEN CLASSES • LITTLE BROWN HANDBOOK • RICE HALL 4TH FLOOR • MORNING DRILLS ON THE DRILL FIELD • LEFT FIELD LOUNGE • PASSING CALCULUS • INTRO TO PSYCHOLOGY • MEETING THE TEAM AT THE AIRPORT AFTER THAT BIG WIN • BEING A ROADRUNNER • THE EGG BOWL • FINDING YOUR FACE IN THE REVEILLE • AN OMELET MADE TO ORDER AT THE CAFETERIA • MEETING WITH YOUR ADVISOR • SITTING UNDER THE BELL TOWER WITH YOUR DATE • PICNIC ON THE DRILL FIELD • READING THE REFLECTOR IN THE GATHERING PARK • RAQUETBALL AT THE SANDERSON CENTER • LISTENING TO WMSV • RICK’S ROWDIES • ENGINEERING ROW • THE DAFFODILS BY HATHORN HALL • A BLACKFRIARS PRODUCTION IN McCOMAS • MADRIGAL SINGERS • CHECKING YOUR MAIL AT THE POST OFFICE • WORKING A BOOTH AT DISCOVERY DAY • MORE THAN YOU EVER WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS • PEP RALLY BEFORE THE FIRST HOME GAME • MSU ICE CREAM • SENIOR PORTFOLIO REVIEW • MEETING YOUR FUTURE WIFE • CLIMBING THE STAIRS IN MCCOOL • INVITING YOUR PARENTS TO SUPER BULLDOG WEEKEND • GETTING AN “A” IN ENGLISH LIT • MSU VS. LSU • VOTING FOR HOMECOMING QUEEN • GETTING FROM LEE HALL TO ALLEN IN UNDER A MINUTE • REUNIONS • STAYING IN TOUCH WITH SUITEMATES FROM SUTTLE HALL • MALFUNCTION JUNCTION • WATCHING THE DIAMOND DAWGS • HOMECOMING • STANDING IN LINE TO GET BASKETBALL TICKETS • WATCHING YOUR FIRST CRICKET MATCH • MEETING THE ALUM WHO FUNDED YOUR SCHOLARSHIP • SNEAKING YOUR COWBELL INTO THE FOOTBALL GAME • PASSING YOUR ORALS • BUYING YOUR DAUGHTER HER FIRST MSU CHEERLEADER OUTFIT • PICKING UP YOUR CAP AND GOWN • POSING FOR ANOTHER GRADUATION PHOTO AT THE HUMP

GIVE BACK.

Annual Giving Program

Summer 2006

Toll Free: 877.677.8283 • www.msufoundation.com

Class news '56

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SELBY PARKER of Clinton, a youth counselor and social worker, has written a novel, The Camel Boy, a Novel of the Civil War.

CHERI MCCUISTON MUSSER is group vice president and chief information officer for General Motors Acceptance Corp.

'60 ROY ESTESS has been appointed by

'75 ROBERT S. BANKS of Louisville,

DARREL SCHMITZ of Starkville, head of the department of geosciences at MSU and professor of geology, has been named president of the international Association of Environmental and Engineering Geologists, the premier resource for professionals in the field.

Gov. Haley Barbour to fill a seat on the State College Board. Estess previously was director of the Stennis Space Center in Hancock County.

Ky., has been named manager of the Project Management Office for BrownForman Corp. in Louisville. TED F. BOWLDS, a major general in the U.S. Air Force, has been named commander of the Air Force Research Laboratory headquartered at WrightPatterson Air Force Base in Ohio. He previously was deputy for acquisition for the base’s Aeronautical Systems Center.

'62 BOBBY GENE WALLEY of Sandhill recently served as interim director of the Greene County Vocational School.

'70 GERALD INMON (M.S. ’74) of Oxford, a retired forester and wildlife biologist, has published a novel, Yocona Puff Adder. The book is available from major online booksellers or at www.yoconapuffadder.com.

'72 STEVE BURWELL of Virginia Beach, Va., has been named mid-Atlantic area managing partner, advisory for KPMG LLP, a tax, audit, and advisory firm. WILLIAM MATTOX (M.A. ’73) has been named first vice president in charge of New York Life Insurance Co.’s Washington, D.C., office. He previously was executive vice president for governmental affairs for Mutual of Omaha. THOMAS WALKER has joined the Opus Group as senior director of Opus Government Programs. He previously worked for 33 years in government service, most recently as an assistant regional administrator for the General Services Administration.

'78 ALPHA LOCKHART MORRIS of Lorman, chair of the Department of Social Sciences at Alcorn State University, has received the Mississippi Humanities Council’s Public Humanities Achievement Award to honor her many years of service as a scholar, consultant, project director and evaluator. LINDA CLARK WATTS of Gulfport, coast division manager for Mississippi Power Co., has been named a 2006 Mississippi Business Woman of the Year by the Mississippi Business Journal.

'79 JAY PRYOR of San Ramon, Calif., has been named vice president, business development, for Chevron Corp. Prior joined Chevron in 1979 and most recently was managing director of the company’s Nigeria/Mid-Africa strategic business unit.

'84 RICHARD GILBRECH has been named director of NASA’s John C. Stennis Space Center at Bay St. Louis. Gilbrech has worked as deputy director of the agency’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Va., and as deputy director of NASA’s Engineering Safety Center. Stennis is NASA’s primary center for rocket propulsion testing and is home to NASA’s Applied Sciences Directorate. D. PAUL SPARKS JR. of Mountain Brook, Ala., has been named senior vice president of operations for Energen Corp.

'87 BRYAN K. SWEARINGEN of Mobile, Ala., works for Siemens Energy & Automation.

'88 MARY HELEN MARSH of West Chester, Pa., has been named general manager of Exelon Power’s two hydro stations, the Conowingo Hydroelectric Generating Station in Darlington, Md., and the Muddy Run Pumped Storage Plant in Drumore Township, Pa.

'89

SUZANNE BIGELOW CAIN (M.M.Ed. ’91) of Meridian appeared in the Meridian Little Theater’s production of “Cats” in May as the character Jellylorum.

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CLASS news '90 DON HAMMACK of Gulfport, a columnist for the Sun Herald, was part of the newspaper’s team that reported on Hurricane Katrina in the days following the storm and who were named finalists for the American Society of Newspaper Editors’ Jesse Laventhol Prize for Deadline News Reporting by a Team.

'91 CHRIS CHATHAM of Vicksburg has been promoted to director of player development for Ameristar Casino Vicksburg. He joined Ameristar in 1997.

'94 MELISSA WARREN of Gulfport has received a Top Producer Commercial Platinum Award and a Ruby Award from the Mississippi Gulf Coast Association of Realtors.

'95 DAWN WALLACE of State Line is a teacher and Junior FFA coordinator at Leakesville Junior High School.

'96 WADE OVERSTREET of Jackson has been named executive director of the Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi Foundation. He previously was head of operations for the Sigma Chi Foundation in Chicago, Ill.

'97 JASON G. CARR of Austin, Texas, has published a book, Faith and the Christian Life. The book is available from major online booksellers or at www.publishamerica.com. TOM WALLACE of State Line has been named director of the Greene County Vocational School.

'98 KIMBERLY PEEPLES BARCZAK (M.S. ’01) of Long Beach has been named director of dietetics and nutrition

services at South Mississippi Regional Center, an intermediate care facility for individuals with mental retardation.

'02

BYRON E. PRICE of Newark, N.J., assistant professor of public policy and administration at Rutgers UniversityNewark, has written a book examining prison privatization, Merchandising Prisoners: Who Really Pays for Prison Privatization. Price also is associate director of Rutgers’ National Center for Public Productivity. CHARLOTTE B. TABEREAUX, education director for MSU’s Riley Center for Education and Performing Arts in Meridian, recently was honored as a new member of the Kennedy Center Alliance for Arts Education-National Leadership Committee. One of only seven people from across the nation to serve on the committee, she was elected to a three-year term.

'05 JONI L. COOLEY of Leakesville is an instructor at Greene County Vocational School.

BIRTH announcements Dalton Isaac Burney, July 5, 2005, to DARYL G. BURNEY (’78) and MISSY PURVIS BURNEY (’86). Kooper Lane Darby, Sept. 13, 2005, to BRANDI BASKIN DARBY (’98, M.S. ’03, ED.S. ’04) and husband Matthew of Noxapater. Gabrielle Aracelis Denson, Nov. 22, 2005, to FELECIA PEREZ DENSON 50

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(’99) and CORNELIUS DENSON JR. (’96) of Jackson. Chandler Leigh Donlin to CHARLES LEONARD DONLIN (’94) and wife Cyndi of Arlington, Tenn. Jacob Thomas Eubanks, Dec. 15, 2005, to ALLEN EUBANKS (’92) and wife Janice of Lucedale.

Baileigh Reid Grisham, Feb. 21, 2006, to AMANDA GRISHAM (’02) and ROCCO GRISHAM (’01) of Jackson. Emery Hart Grissom, Feb. 8, 2006, to HEATHER HENSON GRISSOM (’97) and husband Jason of Ridgeland. continued next page

Class news Carmen Grace Harless, Sept. 10, 2005, to BRIAN JEROME HARLESS (’03) and JESSICA STRINGER HARLESS (’03) of Hattiesburg. Thomas Harrison Honeycutt, April 7, 2005, to MELANIE ADAMS HONEYCUTT (’97) and husband Ken of Starkville. Katherine Grace Jasper, Feb. 21, 2006, to SCOTT JASPER (’94) and TAMMY JASPER (’95) of Madison.

Ella Grace McLendon, Sept. 27, 2005, to JOHN MCLENDON (’98) and TONIA RAINES MCLENDON (’98) of Starkville. Henry Jenkins Ruth, Nov. 22, 2005, to TASHA GUEST RUTH (’02) and JOHN EDWARD RUTH III (’03) of Cleveland. Alex Todd Wade, Nov. 17, 2005, to JASON WADE (’95) and wife Heather of Lucedale.

Lionel Recardo Washington II, Dec. 27, 2005, to LIONEL RECARDO WASHINGTON (’97) and TERESA AUSTIN WASHINGTON (’95) of Jackson. Jonathan Parker Wineman, July 24, 2005, to ROBERT WADE WINEMAN (’96) and wife Bridget of Charlottesville, Va.

IN memoriam LAWRENCE BRADLEY MARTIN (’36)—91, Jackson; retired owner of Central School Supply Co. and World War II veteran, Feb. 19, 2006. CHARLES EARL PEACH (’36)—91, Villa Park, Calif.; retired engineer for Lockheed, March 2, 2006. CHARLES E. ISHEE SR. (’38)— Austin, Texas; retired farmer and former mayor of Louin, March 12, 2006. WILLIAM O. MCILWAIN (’39)—90, Jackson; retired U.S. Postal Service employee and World War II veteran, Jan. 21, 2006. MAURICE TURNER (’39)—93, Leakesville; former owner/operator of Turner Grocery and Turner Motors and World War II veteran, Dec. 12, 2005. HUGH JOSEPH CURRAN (’41)— Yazoo City; retired owner of McGraw Curran Lumber Co., March 23, 2006. ARTHUR EUGENE O’BRIEN (’41)— 87, Collins; retired county agent for Covington County and World War II veteran, Feb. 8, 2006. THOMAS MASON BRYAN (’42)— 85, Woodville; retired executive vice president for Commercial Bank and World War II veteran, Feb. 25, 2006.

WILLIAM C. HARRIS (’42)—86, Raymond; farmer, cattleman, and World War II veteran, Jan. 6, 2006. LYNN P. JONES SR. (’42)—85, Brandon; retired chief of the Adjudication Division of the Veterans Administration and World War II veteran, Dec. 29, 2005. THOMAS L. DELASHMET JR. (’43)—84, Moss Point; retired owner of Moss Point Insurance Agency, Jan. 9, 2006. WILLIAM THOMAS ROBERTSON SR. (’43)—85, Holly Ridge; retired farmer and banker, March 17, 2006. WILLIAM ROSS MCCARVER (’44)—84, Tupelo; retired assistant supervisor for Farmers Home Administration, Jan. 27, 2006. JAMES CUNNINGHAM MORGAN JR. (’44)—81, Greenwood; retired farmer and World War II veteran, Jan. 19, 2006. FARRIS E. DENDY (’48)—80, Oxford; retired agricultural engineer for the U.S. Department of Agriculture ARS Soil Sedimentation Laboratory and World War II veteran, Oct. 9, 2005. ALBERT HINES WALTERS (’48)— 82, Jackson; retired mechanical engineer and World War II veteran, Dec. 21, 2005.

THOMAS HOWARD BUFORD (’49)—83, Holly Springs; retired postmaster at Holly Springs and World War II veteran, Feb. 11, 2006. JULIAN W. CRAWFORD (’49, M.S. ’64)—80, Holly Bluff; retired school teacher and farmer and World War II veteran, Nov. 19, 2005. ROBERT ALLEN FILGO (’49)—81, Canton; retired vice president for MFC Services and World War II veteran, Dec. 16, 2005. JAMES L. JORDAN (’50)—79, Jackson; retired director for MFC Services and World War II veteran, Jan. 10, 2006. WILLIAM THOMAS MCLEMORE (’50)—77, Sardis; former county agent and farm consultant in Panola County and Korean War veteran, March 21, 2006. AUSTIN P. BOGGAN (’51)—82, Decatur; physician and founder of Decatur Medical Clinic and World War II veteran, Dec. 15, 2005. SIMEON MADISON COOLEY (’51)—79, Ellisville; longtime head football coach at Jones Junior College, Feb. 12, 2006.

A Summer 2006

IN memoriam JAMES CURTIS WEAVER (’52)— Myrtle Beach, S.C.; retired district manager for American telephone and Telegraph and Korean War veteran, Dec. 28, 2005. WILLIAM L. LOWERY (’53)—75, Plainfield, Ind.; retired auditor for the State of Indiana, Jan. 17, 2006. JOHN H. STINSON JR. (’54)—74, Lucedale; retired nursing home administrator, Jan. 19, 2006. LEONARD D. THEUS (’54)—81, Orlando, Fla.; retired senior group engineer for Martin Marietta Co. and Korean War veteran, Jan. 3, 2006. BOBBY M. ANTHONY (’56)—74, Brandon; president of Anthony Investments Inc., community leader, and Korean War veteran, March 3, 2006. JOHN AUSTIN PACE (’56)—76, Jackson; 33-year employee of Cyclone Fence Co. and Korean War veteran, Feb. 18, 2006. VELA COLEMAN VOYLES (’58)— 97, Corinth; retired Alcorn County school teacher, Feb. 25, 2006. JOSEPH ANTHONY GEORGE JR. (’59)—69, Greenwood; businessman and former state legislator, Feb. 5, 2006. JOHNNY P. BYRD (’61)—64, Gadsden, Ala.; Eagle Scout and Boy Scout leader, Jan. 10, 2006. BOB ELLIS (’61)—Winona; retired owner of Ellis Tractor Co., Feb. 12, 2006. GENE MAC LEWIS (’63)—65, West Point; retired special agent for the Mississippi Tax Commission, Dec. 27, 2005. WILLIAM HALL WILBANKS JR. (’63)—67, New Albany; retired educator and football coach, March 6, 2006. COLEN RAY LEE (’65)—Pascagoula; retired director of power generation for Gulf Power Co., Dec. 29, 2005. TERRY KEY WILKEY (’66)—62, Greenwood; retired sales manager for Viking Range Corp., Jan. 4, 2006. THOMAS ELLIOTT (’67, M.S. ’73)— 60, Tupelo; 38-year employee of the Mississippi Employment Security Commission, Jan. 8, 2006. 52

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ARNOLD RICHARD HENDERSON (’70)—Lebanon, Tenn.; professor of geology and physical science at Cumberland University in Lebanon, Dec. 4, 2005. ELIZABETH FLURRY LEE (’73)— 77, Clinton; retired Clinton school teacher, Feb. 12, 2006. JIMMY HOLBERT HUGHES (’74)— 53, Clinton; teacher at Hinds Community College, Nov. 28, 2005. CYNTHIA FORESMAN DAWSON (’76, M.S. ’77)—51, Sugar Land, Texas; former financial manager and homemaker, Jan. 4, 2006. DEXTER WOOD MONTGOMERY (’80)—70, Belmont; former high school principal, assistant superintendent, and counselor, Jan. 27, 2006. ANNIE RAY NEYLAND GOLDEN (’81)—91, Zachary, La.; retired nurse, social worker, and occupational therapist for Mississippi State Hospital in Meridian, Dec. 24, 2005. SHEILA SALTER KLIMETZ (’81)— 47, Memphis; vice president of ViningSparks Investment Banking Group, Jan. 12, 2006. BLASE PATRICK GAUDE (’84)—44, Oakton, Va.; Sandia National Laboratory employee, Jan. 1, 2006. ROSS WALLACE FISER (’85)—43, Greenville; field representative for United Ag Products, March 16, 2006. LEIGH ANN BROWN JANOUSH (’86)—41, Cleveland; pharmaceutical sales representative for Merck and Pfizer Pharmaceuticals, Feb. 13, 2006. PAUL Y. JUE (’90)—38, Vicksburg; Ameristar Casino employee, Jan. 11, 2006. KENNETH R. KELLY (’90)—47, Brandon; production facilitator for Milwaukee Electric Tools, Jan. 14, 2006. RICHARD HARRY CARPENTER (’92)—35, Madison, Ala.; computer engineer for Raytheon Corp., Feb. 28, 2006.

LES BRAMLETTE CASTON II (’98)—32, Liberty; physical fitness specialist, Jan. 4, 2006. DELFIN O. RENDON (’98)—39, Starkville; musician, artist, and hazardous waste officer for the Regulatory Compliance Office at MSU, Sept. 4, 2005. Bernell E. Simmons (attended)—85, McComb; dentist and World War II veteran, Jan. 19, 2006. Joshua Scott Bozeman (student)—21, Biloxi; marketing major at Mississippi State, Jan. 12, 2006. Louise H. Brooks (former employee)—83, Starkville; retired executive secretary to the vice president for business affairs at MSU, March 25, 2006. Walter Joseph Drapala (former employee)—Starkville; professor emeritus of experimental statistics and agronomy and head emeritus of experimental statistics at Mississippi State, Dec. 22, 2005. George Franklin Elrod (employee)— 56, Starkville; professor of counselor education and educational psychology at Mississippi State, March 22, 2006. George R. Lewis (former employee)—76, Eupora; director of MSU Libraries 1963-91 and member of the board of commissioners of the Mississippi Library Commission, Feb. 10, 2006. Terrell Wayne Akin (friend)—40, Jackson; Willowood Developmental Center employee and 1996 Olympic torch bearer, Dec. 16, 2005. Donald Bradley (friend)—59, Leakesville; retired BellSouth employee, Jan. 7, 2006. Joseph C. Favara Sr. (friend)—95, Itta Bena; retired owner of Southern Café and World War II veteran, Feb. 9, 2006.

TAG—

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By purchasing a Mississippi State license plate from your county license office, you SUPPORT THE UNIVERSITY and you also show you’re PROUD TO BE A BULLDOG.

Proceeds from the license plate sales fund priority programs at MSU. Promoted by the Mississippi State University Alumni Association • P.O. Box AA • Mississippi State, MS 39762-5526 • 662-325-7000 www.alumni.msstate.edu

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