Summer 2022 MTSU magazine

Summer 2022

Table of Contents 05 Editor's Letter

30 #MyMTStory

60 In Memoriam

14 Scene on Campus

32 Old School

62 Baby Raiders

16 Events Calendar

38 New School

63 Last Word

17 Required Reading

45 Midpoints

Features

18 Faculty Spotlight

52 MTSUNews.com

06 Rising Higher

20 Campus Culture

54 Class Notes

22 Pearls of Wisdom 42 Full-Court Press

Middle Tennessee State University Summer 2022, Vol. 27 No. 1 University President Sidney A. McPhee University Provost Mark Byrnes Vice President for University Advancement Joe Bales Vice President for Marketing and Communications Andrew Oppmann Senior Editor Drew Ruble Associate Editor Carol Stuart Contributing Editor Nancy Broden Senior Director of Creative Marketing Solutions Kara Hooper Designer Micah Loyed Contributing Writers Skip Anderson, Stephanie Barrette, Gina E. Fann, John Glennon, Allison Gorman, Jimmy Hart, Gina K. Logue, Patsy B. Weiler, Randy Weiler University Photographers James Cessna, Andy Heidt, J. Intintoli, Cat Curtis Murphy Special thanks to Donna Baker, MT Athletics, the Honors College, Trent Johnson, Office of Research and Sponsored Programs

Raising the Roof The Lady Raiders made an exciting run to the postseason Women’s National Invitation Tournament final four, hosting Seton Hall at Murphy Center. MTSU boasted the only remaining unbeaten record at home for both men’s and women’s basketball in Division I going into the semifinal, with a combined 31-0 mark.

Photo by Matthew Posey

Address changes should be sent to Advancement Services, MTSU Box 109, Murfreesboro, TN 37132; alumni@mtsu.edu.

Other correspondence goes to MTSU magazine, Drew Ruble, 1301 E. Main St., MTSU Box 49, Murfreesboro, TN 37132. For online content, visit mtsunews.com. 129,379 copies printed at Courier Printing, Smyrna, Tennessee. Designed by MTSU Creative Marketing Solutions.

0222-0410 / Middle Tennessee State University does not discriminate against students, employees, or applicants for admission or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, age, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or any other legally protected class with respect to all employment, programs, and activities sponsored by MTSU. The Assistant to the President for Institutional Equity and Compliance has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies and can be reached at Cope Administration Building 116, 1301 East Main Street, Murfreesboro, TN 37132; Christy.

Sigler@mtsu.edu; or 615-898-2185. The MTSU policy on non-discrimination can be found at mtsu.edu/iec.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

HOMECOMING 2022 October 14 –15 Make sure your email is up to date at mtalumni.com/update to ensure receiving Homecoming weekend event details.

As activities are finalized, you can find event listings, RSVPs, and updated info at mtalumni.com, 800-533-6878, or alumni@mtsu.edu.

MECOMING O H

Follow us on social media for updates and announcements

MTSUAlumni

@mtalumni

@mtalumni

EDITOR'S LET TER

Half a Century in the Glass House Stately and iconic Kirksey Old Main, one of the first buildings constructed on the MTSU campus 111 years ago, may be the most recognizable facility on campus. But, for many, 50-year-old Murphy Center is MTSU’s most sentimental spot.

From first kisses and first concerts to first days of college, Murphy Center may hold more memories than any other building at MTSU. As “The Glass House” approaches its 50th birthday in December, efforts are under way to renovate it and ensure that it remains a vibrant part of campus life.

After all, where else on campus—or anywhere else in middle Tennessee—did Elvis Presley make a live recording of back-to-back concerts in May 1975.

For three decades after it opened in 1972, Murphy Center was—in the words of former Student Programming director Harold Smith—“the venue, not only in Nashville but in the mid-South.”

Elvis, who performed there five times, was one of dozens of top acts that drew fans by the thousands to Murphy Center in the years before Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena was built.

With its free-floating cantilevered roof, 520 glass panels that form its walls, and 11,500 seats for concerts and sporting events, there was, and is, no place like Murphy Center in middle Tennessee. A who’s who of entertainers— Elton John, The Who, the Beach Boys, Johnny Cash, the Eagles, the Judds, and many more—played there.

The arena also played a part in the enormous growth of MTSU and Murfreesboro. Just as all those entertainers

by Drew Ruble

found their way to the ’Boro, so did their fans, and many became students or the parents of students. They also found out that Murfreesboro was a desirable place to live.

“It gave the city a sense of being cosmopolitan,” said broadcaster and recent alumni honoree Chip Walters.

“What other building has contributed so much to the growth of the city and the school?”

The arena is a “cultural icon and should be treated as such,” added Athletics Director Chris Massaro. “More people went on first dates there. They graduated there.

Now their kids or grandchildren have graduated. You mention Murphy, and everybody has a memory.”

As part of the University's new Build Blue project, a $100 million-plus plan to upgrade athletics facilities led by GMC+HOK, Murphy Center is receiving a makeover for its 50th birthday.

The antiquated glass surrounding the historic structure was recently replaced with an updated system that offers a better appearance and automatic dimming for glare control. Future improvements include (at long last!) a dedicated, primary entrance to the arena, a main lobby, and a newly designed basketball floor.

Of course, the question on everyone’s mind is whether the oddly spaced steps leading up to the veranda will be altered. Word is it’s too early in the design stage to know—but stay tuned!

Dotting the pages of this edition of MTSU magazine are glimpses of Murphy’s magical past. We hope you enjoy the trip down memory lane.

Summer 2022 5

RISINGH STATE OF THE UNIVERSIT Y

A reflective discussion with President Sidney A. McPhee about the past, present, and future of MTSU interview by Drew Ruble

6 MTSU Magazine

HIGHER

Summer 2022 7

STATE OF THE UNIVERSIT Y

As MTSU’s 10th president, you recently marked your 20th academic year leading the University. What are your thoughts as you hit this incredible milestone?

I have been blessed to preside over one of the most remarkable periods of growth and progress at our institution. During my tenure, the University has grown in both student numbers and physical facilities, including more than $1.4 billion in recent construction and renovation.

In addition, almost 50 cutting-edge undergraduate and graduate degree programs, two new colleges (the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences and University College), and more than a dozen research institutes and centers of excellence were launched on my watch.

Our campus continues to change and grow. A new building for Concrete and Construction Management will open this fall. A new Applied Engineering Building has received state funding and has an anticipated 2024 completion.

We also continue to build on our stellar academic offerings, with timely new degrees in Data Science and Supply Chain Management and a master’s in Physician Assistant Studies, among others.

Serving as proof of the quality of our programs and general excellence as an institution of higher learning, MTSU returned to The Princeton Review’s annual list of the nation’s best colleges in the U.S. for a third consecutive year in 2022. And MTSU remains the only locally governed institution in Tennessee recognized by the organization. Newsweek also lists MTSU among America’s Top Online Colleges 2022, and U.S. News & World Report ranks MTSU 72nd nationally for uplifting students’ social mobility.

Our original Quest for Student Success strategy, implemented in 2013, led to significant improvements in student retention and graduation rates through revamping academic advising, reworking general core courses, and developing customized graduation maps for each student.

Its successor, Quest 2025, focuses on student success marked by a deeper and broader academic and student life experience that extends learning beyond graduation.

One focus of my tenure at MTSU has been to prepare ready-to-work graduates who become engaged citizens. As such, MTSU’s academic offerings have grown not only in quantity but also in quality to better

August 2001 McPhee becomes MTSU's 10th president

March 2002

November 2002

August 2004

Construction initiated after $2 million match met for Martin Honors Building

First Ph.D. degrees approved in conversion from D.A. programs

Federal funds secured for Middle Tennessee Boulevard gateway

August 2002

January 2003

Convocation started as new academic year tradition

Tennessee Miller Coliseum and Horse Science Center open

serve the needs of the middle Tennessee region and support the state’s economic growth and development.

Speaking of that, MTSU continues to be a powerful economic engine for the region and entire state of Tennessee. Talk about your view of MTSU’s massive role regionally.

According to a 2022 report by the Business and Economic Research Center (BERC) in the Jones College of Business, MTSU was responsible for more than $1.42 billion in economic impact and almost 11,500 jobs statewide in 2021. The report also showed that the University, as Murfreesboro’s second-largest employer with 2,270 jobs, generates $143.6 million in local, state, and federal tax revenue— a significant rise since 2017’s $88 million.

MTSU takes great pride in our institution’s economic impact on this community, region, and state as we fulfill our mission of preparing the next generations of community leaders, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled professionals across the workforce. The University not only attracts highly acclaimed scholars from across the state and nation, but our graduates overwhelmingly remain in our region and state to give back to their communities and, in turn, their local economies.

For example, in 2021, MTSU graduates accounted for nearly two in every five adults with bachelor’s or above educational attainment in Rutherford County, and one in every six adults with bachelor’s or above educational attainment in the Nashville MSA. Seventy-nine percent of MTSU alumni live in Tennessee.

MTSU is the No. 1 provider of college graduates to the greater Nashville economy and the second-largest producer of graduates in the state among public universities. MTSU provides the vibrant Music City economy and workforce with more graduates than all other local universities combined—approximately 5,000-plus each year.

The BERC study additionally showed MTSU brings nearly 300,000 people to Rutherford County each year. Spending by visitors accounts for more than $60 million, and that translates to almost 800 jobs. These results happened despite the impact that the pandemic had on travel and cancellation of events.

Clearly, MTSU not only adds educational and cultural value to Tennessee but also stimulates a vibrant business environment for the region.

June 2005

July 2007

500-acre Guy James Farm purchased for agriculture programs

University College creates pioneering adult degree program

January 2005 The Department of Art and Design and Gore Center move into renovated Todd Hall, formerly library space

January 2007 $5.5 million expansion of Cason-Kennedy Nursing Building completed

Summer 2022 9

STATE OF THE UNIVERSIT Y

Now in your third decade as MTSU’s president, what are some of your plans for the near future?

New and distinctive achievements are within our grasp.

I would start by highlighting the incredible success of MTSU’s Aerospace program, which is ranked in the top five in the nation, which in turn has led to an enrollment growth in the Professional Pilot program. This growth has been further accelerated by Delta Air Lines’ selection of MTSU as one of just a few university partners nationally with a hiring pathway initiative. Student enrollment in the program has increased from 319 in fall 2013 to 893 in fall 2021, expanding the number of needed training flights.

Most of those flights occur at Murfreesboro Municipal Airport; but over the past few years, MTSU has been exploring options at other area airports to accommodate the growing number of Professional Pilot students.

In concert with that, we submitted a comprehensive capital project for the Aerospace Department to the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. This proposal included

August 2008 $20 million expansion to Rec Center includes student health clinic 10 MTSU Magazine

site development and academic facilities, including an 83,000-square-foot academic building with classroom, class lab, faculty and staff offices, and support spaces, along with three hangar structures to serve as laboratory and laboratory support spaces.

Gov. Bill Lee allocated $62.2 million . . . to MTSU for this exciting and needed expansion of the Aerospace program.

The site development included site utilities, earthwork, auto parking, aircraft apron and taxiway, and all associated work. This Aerospace capital outlay project was ranked No. 1 on THEC’s second priority list. Thankfully, in his 2022–23 state budget, approved by the General Assembly, Gov. Bill Lee allocated $62.2 million in capital funding to MTSU for this exciting and needed expansion of the

August 2009

August 2011

Sept. 11, 2011

Ranked 57th and only Tennessee university in Forbes’ top 100 public institutions

“I am True Blue” pledge and core values initiated

University celebrates century of service

August 2010 College of Behavioral and Health Sciences created for service disciplines

September 2011 $30 million College of Education Building opens

Aerospace program. And we are now in the process of fulfilling that expansion in Bedford County.

Our goal is to build a world-class aviation academy by relocating our current flight operations and other aviation training to the Shelbyville Municipal Airport. When fully implemented, this will end MTSU’s seven-decade partnership with Murfreesboro’s airport, dating back to 1952 when it opened. The University hopes to complete the Shelbyville project within the next three to five years.

We simply outgrew the Murfreesboro airport. MTSU will move operations to a 600-acre Shelbyville airport with a runway that’s 5,503 feet long, significantly longer than what is available at the Murfreesboro airport.

Established in 1942, Aerospace is a signature department at MTSU and has grown into one of the most respected programs in the country.

Twenty full-time faculty members, 100-plus flight instructors at the Flight Operations Center, and more than 1,200 majors place MTSU Aerospace among the largest of the nation’s collegiate aviation programs.

What other initiatives are on your mind as you continue to steward the University in the coming years?

Issues surrounding social justice continue to reverberate in public discussions and debates throughout our community and country, which is why in 2021 I launched a campuswide Social Justice and Equality Initiative that provides an opportunity for the University and wider community to build a foundation for racial reconciliation, honest and open dialogue, and impactful change. In addition to systemic racism, the initiative looks to address the concerns of marginalized groups such as the LGBTQ community and other underrepresented groups. An advisory Social Justice and Equality Task Force composed of faculty, staff, administrators, and students is currently researching and gathering information about the initiative’s four areas of focus—curriculum, workforce development and inclusion, campus climate, and community outreach. I look forward to reviewing their upcoming

recommendations on how we can address these areas in meaningful ways and make our True Blue community more equitable and inviting for all.

In addition, earlier this year I established the position of assistant to the president for community engagement and inclusion. This office is responsible for developing and supporting relationships with a broad range of community and civic organizations—including those in arts, culture, and history; religious organizations; and community support—and integrating best practices and University resources across the MTSU campus to promote a culture of inclusion. This is a critical position as we continue to move forward in bringing the community closer to the University and fostering deeper engagement both inside and outside our campus.

Furthermore, we are exploring the creation of a professional school, as well as focusing on growing our graduate programs in number of degrees and in students. We also will continue to improve the amenities and infrastructure across our campus.

Of course, one such project makes elevating MT Athletics a priority moving forward. Could you expand on that?

I have often remarked that athletics serves as the “front door” of the University. Our frequent appearances and success in the annual NCAA basketball tournament serve as solid proof of that.

September 2012

July 2013

$65 million, 211,000-square-foot Student Union opens

MT Athletics joins Conference USA after winning 5th straight Sun Belt all-sports trophy

April 2013 May 2012 100,000th undergraduate degree awarded

Former hospital property purchased, including current Miller Education Center building

Summer 2022 11

STATE OF THE UNIVERSIT Y

Murphy Center renovations

Lifetime of Service

We excitedly announced in November 2021 that we had secured funds for a $66 million project to build a new student-athlete performance center behind the north end zone of Floyd Stadium as well as make stadium improvements—the first of a three-phase, $100 millionplus plan to upgrade athletics facilities. To be built on the site of the current weight and game day rooms adjacent to Murphy Center, the three-story structure will house training, strength and conditioning, and equipment centers. Football’s locker and meeting rooms and personnel offices will be moved into the new facility from Murphy Center, which is slated for later enhancements.

The Murfreesboro Branch of the NAACP recently presented MTSU President Sidney A. McPhee and his wife Elizabeth with the NAACP's Presidents Awards for their ongoing community service and support of underserved student populations at the University and Murfreesboro City Schools.

In two decades-plus under McPhee’s leadership, MTSU is second only to Tennessee State University among all public institutions in the state in graduating students of color, both male and female; MTSU has the highest six-year graduation rates among the state’s three top producers of Black graduates in the most recent cohort measured; and MTSU had the highest retention of Black males enrolled at land-grant institutions as of fall 2019. In all, about 50% of MTSU’s student population is Pell-eligible.

Design of the new facility began immediately, with project completion expected before the start of the 2024 Blue Raider football season. GMC+HOK, a team that helped build similar projects at Vanderbilt, Auburn, Georgia, and other universities, will oversee design of the project.

The State Building Commission recently approved MTSU’s project plans. This summer, we are breaking ground for an expansion of the outdoor tennis facilities on campus.

Elizabeth McPhee, retired longtime educator for Murfreesboro City Schools, has been actively involved with a number of charitable organizations and initiatives over the years.

MTSU’s Board of Trustees voted in April to extend President McPhee’s contract through 2026.

March 2014

November 2015

$16 million Student Services and Admissions Center opens

Veterans and Military Family Center opens (later named for Charlie and Hazel Daniels)

October 2013 Award-winning Quest for Student Success initiative launched, resulting in increases in retention and graduation rates 12 MTSU Magazine

Tell us about the exciting news that occurred recently regarding MTSU’s growing research capacity.

The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education releases classifications for more than 4,500 schools every three years. Based on a measure of research activity, doctoral universities like MTSU are

August 2014 250,000-square-foot Science Building opens in overall $147 million project for new and renovated facilities

February 2016 $105 million final tally for Centennial Campaign

assigned a category: R1 meaning highest research activity, R2 meaning higher research activity, or R3 meaning doctoral/ professional university. MTSU was officially elevated to R2 status—doctoral university with high research activity—in the newly revised Carnegie Classification released in January, joining a select group of only 3% of institutions to carry the R2 designation nationwide (see page 22).

This is an exciting development, years in the making, and made possible through the research efforts of our faculty, chairs, and deans; staff in the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs; Vice Provost for Research David Butler; and partnerships with various vice presidents. It raises the profile of the University, for sure. Importantly, it also enhances the value of the University to students who get to work with faculty researchers at MTSU on important research and discoveries. I am very proud of the efforts that have enabled this increased ranking and recognition and appreciate everyone who has contributed to this great achievement.

Supporting our elevation to R2, many of our metrics improved in 2020–21, including 156 proposals and 64 new awards to principal investigators across campus.

Final thoughts?

I would just reiterate that MTSU has been consistently recognized for academic innovation. And that is in large part due to the hard work of dedicated faculty and staff as well as our committed alumni and donors.

Grounded in outstanding tradition, MTSU faces a future that has never been brighter.

Thank you, Mr. President.

Economic Impact MTSU continued to be powerful economic engine for the region and entire state of Tennessee in 2021.

1.42 $ 143.6

$

billion in economic impact

more than

generates

million in local, state, and federal tax revenue

almost

11,500 jobs statewide

Murfreesboro’s second-largest employer

2,270 jobs

April 2017

August 2019

April 2021

MTSU Board of Trustees installed under new local governance

Ranked in Princeton Review’s Best Colleges in U.S. for 1st time

Groundbreaking for $40.1 million Concrete and Construction Management building

March 2016 Blue Raiders upset No. 2 seed Michigan State in NCAA tourney

December 2018 Regional Scholarship Program extended to 8 bordering states

August 2020 $39.6 million Academic Classroom Building opens with high-tech facilities

January 2022 Elevated to Carnegie elite R2 status (high research activity)

SCENE ON CAMPUS

Nov. 4–7 “Demon barber” in Sweeney Todd

April 9 Girls in STEM conference 25th celebration

May 6 ROTC commissioning for spring 2022

March 1 Predators’ Gnash hangin’ with Lightning

14 MTSU Magazine

Jan. 25 Parks Chief Ranger Shane Petty discusses unmanned aircraft search

Feb. 3 Comedian and talk show host D.L. Hughley

Feb. 23 The Rascals’ Felix Cavaliere concert

March 19 Uncovering history at Festival of the Veils

April 4–9 AIDS Memorial Quilt pieces on exhibit Summer 2022 15

EVENTS

Events Calendar Mark your calendar for upcoming events around campus Sept. 12–19 Constitution Week: Special guests and events across campus

July 30–Aug. 13 Todd Art Gallery “Native Voices” art exhibit (reception July 30, 2 p.m.)

Aug. 20–21 Back-to-School Bash and Convocation: Speaker Andrew Forsthoefel, author of Walking to Listen

Sept. 17 Floyd Stadium MTSU football vs. TSU, Family Weekend/home opener

Sept. 29–Oct. 2 Tucker Theatre Sense and Sensibility

Sept. 29 Hinton Music Hall Jazz Artist Series

Oct. 14–15 Various Locations Homecoming Weekend: MTSU football vs. Western Kentucky

Nov. 12 MTSU football vs. Charlotte, Salute to Veterans and Armed Forces weekend

Nov. 17–19 Tucker Theatre Fall Dance Concert

Nov. 28, 7 p.m.

Hinton Music Hall MTSU Schola Cantorum Holiday Concert

More events and details at mtsu.edu/calendar

Jan. 16, 6 p.m.

Student Union Ballroom MLK Day Celebration and Candlelight Vigil

Feb. 2 Hinton Music Hall Jazz Artist Series

16 MTSU Magazine

REQUIRED READING

Required Reading Pure America: Eugenics and the Making of Modern Virginia Elizabeth Catte, Ph.D. in Public History (’16) HISTORICAL NONFICTION

Pure America links present-day economic and racial inequalities and the history of eugenics in America. According to Catte, Virginia elites in the early 20th century strove to maintain racial and class hierarchies under the veneer of scientific and humanitarian progress. She contends that the state’s 1924 Sterilization Act, which allowed doctors to sterilize institutionalized patients without their consent, was intended to protect white racial purity and that the 1924 Racial Integrity Act buttressed whiteness by preventing interracial marriage. The book received praise in the Wall Street Journal and New York Times, and Publishers Weekly named it among its best books of 2021. Catte also wrote the highly publicized What You Are Getting Wrong About Appalachia.

Gettysburg by Morning

Faith in Freedom

Randy O’Brien,

Andrew R. Polk,

B.S. in English (’76)

Associate Professor, Department of History

Leigh Ann Gardner,

AMERICAN RELIGIOUS HISTORY

AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY

In Faith in Freedom, Polk argues that U.S. Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman, and Dwight D. Eisenhower, working with politicians, advertising executives, and military public relations experts, exploited denominational religious affiliations and beliefs in order to unite Americans during World War II and then the early Cold War. By assessing the ideas, policies, and actions of these three U.S. presidents and their White House staffs, Polk sheds light on the origins of the ideological, religious, and partisan divides that describe the American polity today.

Gardner, a grants manager at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and longtime interpretative specialist with the Tennessee Civil War National Heritage Area at MTSU’s Center for Historic Preservation, writes about African American lodges like the Sons of Ham and Prince Hall Freemasons that created a social safety net for members across Tennessee during their heyday between 1865 and 1930.

Such groups provided members with sick benefits and assurance of a proper burial, among other advantages. Their legacy endures in the form of the cemeteries the lodges left behind.

HISTORICAL FICTION

There are over 200 documented cases of women who dressed as men to fight in the Civil War. Gettysburg by Morning is the first novel that explores this phenomenon from the battlefield to the White House. Historical characters like Abraham Lincoln, Mary Todd Lincoln, George Custer, Oliver Wendell Holmes, and others make reading this story like walking hand-in-hand with history. O’Brien is a retired awardwinning radio journalist. He was the news director of WMOT-FM for three decades, reporting hard news and features. In addition, he was an adjunct writing instructor.

To Care for the Sick and Bury the Dead M.A., Public History (’12)

Summer 2022 17

FACULT Y SPOTLIGHT

Going Places A Tennessean comes home to MTSU focused on bringing students the world

by Allison Gorman

Robert Summers is from the middle of nowhere, Tennessee. That’s how he describes the place in Putnam County where he grew up, where there was not much reason to think he’d ever leave. As a high school kid working part time at a body shop, his only post-graduation plan was to go full time.

His mom, a teacher, had different ideas. She pushed him out of the nest and off to college.

Still, he didn’t really “fly” until he went abroad.

(That’s also literally true. His first time on an airplane was when he studied in France as an undergraduate.) The experience broadened his mind and boosted his confidence. It also put him on a path that led him to places he never imagined going, including to almost 50 countries.

Since joining MTSU as vice provost for international affairs in July 2020, Summers has been preaching the virtues of study abroad. He’s determined to help every Blue Raider experience the world, even if that means bringing the world to them.

After leaving the nest and landing a half-hour away at Tennessee Tech, Summers still couldn’t envision his path forward. He struggled through his classes before finding a subject that intrigued him—Indochinese history. He took French as a complementary course.

“Lo and behold, I was pretty good at it,” he said.

Summers thought he might go to law school.

But when his grandfather died, he stayed home instead to wind down the family farm and completed a second bachelor’s, in French.

A professor talked him into studying abroad, and the subsequent month he spent in France left Summers empowered and inspired.

Study abroad isn’t just about academics, he said; it’s about self-sufficiency. Summers learned to handle all sorts of unfamiliar situations. He tried and enjoyed foods he’d never heard of, and he met and liked people of a different religion.

“I’d never been on mass transit until I went to France, never been on a subway,” he said. Such experiences 18 MTSU Magazine

are important so “we won’t be intimidated by things we don’t understand.”

His next stop: MTSU. He enrolled as a master’s student in French and was among the first Blue Raiders to participate in a University of Caen summer study abroad. That led to an internship with the French government, which set him up for a Ph.D. in Second Language Acquisition and Instructional Technology at the University of South Florida.

At every stop along the way, new doors opened.

Summers has led language and international programs at the University at Albany, University of Alabama, and State University of New York at Buffalo.

When he saw another open door—which includes overseeing MTSU’s Office of Education Abroad —he loved the thought of giving wings to a new generation.

“It’s really nice to give back to MTSU what they gave to me, and to help these kids that are really similar to me . . . understand that study abroad is something that they can and should do.”

His goal is to make study abroad more accessible for all students by lowering barriers. While MTSU has awarded nearly $1 million in study abroad scholarships over the past five years, Summers plans to find new funding sources. He credits his staff for securing $100,000 in new grants, including one supporting study abroad by students from underrepresented groups.

Remote alternatives that evolved during the COVID-19 pandemic also showed that the University can provide global experiences to students who can’t participate in traditional ways. Students who couldn’t have afforded a $2,000 plane ticket to work in Vietnam did a virtual international internship—one even earned a permanent position.

To be successful in today’s world, students must be able to work with people with different perspectives and from different cultures. Summers is living proof that you can get there from here at MTSU. MTSU

Summer 2022 19

CAMPUS CULTURE

Collage: A Journal of Creative Expression is a biannual publication of MTSU’s Honors College. Each semester a student-led committee receives entries of creative work, such as art, photography, short stories, essays, short plays, song lyrics, poetry, audio, and video from students and recent alumni. mtsu.edu/collage

Through the Looking Glass Pencil Drawing

Nhi Diep

20 MTSU Magazine

i am my mother's daughter

by Cassie Sistoso when i am with you every solid ounce of my teenaged pride resurfaces and bends itself around our differences where you are bold and sharp and talkative i follow behind you, still and subtle and enigmatic when you said you could not bear a sky without sun i fell in love with the rain but when i am alone cupping my life with my own two hands and people ask about my parents i say “i have my mother’s face, though you might not notice it at first. her expressions are my own” when people find the sharp edges of your passion in my blood i say proudly that “i am my mother’s daughter” where you were brave and loud and full of fire i am following behind you full of flame

Contemplating Flight Sculpture

Sarah Comer

Rusty

Acrylic on Canvas

Jillian DeGrie

Shafer Canyon Overlook Photography

Jessejoie Curada

Summer 2022 21

22 MTSU Magazine

On-campus institutes incubate ideas and innovations to impact the world

by Skip Anderson, Allison Gorman, Jimmy Hart, Gina K. Logue, Drew Ruble, and Patsy Weiler

According to Tennessee State Symbols (1995), Murfreesboro natives Charles Bradford and James Johnson were fishing in the Caney Fork River in the early 1880s when, on opening mussels, they found a large white pearl. They took it to William Wendel, a local druggist, who sent it off to Tiffany’s in New York. A few days later the men had a check for a then-impressive $83. More than 130 years later, mussels are a $40 million industry in Tennessee, according to the Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Museum. And the freshwater pearl is the official state gem.

Pearls are formed when freshwater or saltwater mollusks—clams, oysters, mussels, and more—secrete layer after layer of ultra-thin fluid in an onion-like manner around an irritant. Conceptually speaking, mollusks producing pearls are a good metaphor for the various research centers and institutes housed on the campus of MTSU. Each in its own way, shape, and form is cultivating important research for the state’s benefit, responding to a need and resulting in valuable gems for Tennessee’s economy and workforce development.

MTSU’s research prowess was recently validated in a big way. In the newly revised Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, MTSU was elevated to R2 status (doctoral university with high research activity) from R3 (doctoral/professional university)—joining a select group of just a few hundred institutions nationwide to carry the R1 (highest research activity) or R2 designation. This is an exciting development years in the making—one that raises the profile of MTSU. The following stories open a few of the oysters that are some of MTSU’s most prominent research centers and institutes on campus to see what is happening within and to hear stories, or “pearls of wisdom,” about the results incubated by faculty, staff, and students.

Summer 2022 23

ROOTS RISING Iris Gao

Digging for ginseng has been a tradition for generations of Tennesseans. They’ve fed their families by heading to the deep woods in the fall. Yet the work is hard and often dangerous, and it usually doesn’t provide a stable income, especially now that ginseng is getting harder to find. Despite government regulation of digging—all but forbidden on public land—American wild ginseng is an endangered species.

“Wild-simulated” farming isn’t new, but it’s new to American ginseng, said MTSU Professor Iris Gao, director of the International Ginseng Institute (IGI) at MTSU. With backing from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), she’s working to advance the farming model, which could do more than save an endangered species. It could bring new life to rural communities in Appalachia.

Much of the work Gao does is grassroots, providing oneon-one support for budding growers on wild-simulated methods. Meanwhile, her research team is developing technologies to make those methods more efficient and effective. The IGI brings together growers, dealers, regulators, and researchers, disseminating information online and through workshops and symposiums. But the larger goal is to reengineer the economics of wild American ginseng, to create a new, sustainable supply to meet global demand.

24 MTSU Magazine

The demand for ginseng has always been strong in Asia, where it’s been used as medicine for 2,000 years. But Gao says the market is growing as science is beginning to substantiate the health benefits long attributed to ginseng root. In Chinese medicine, it’s prescribed for side effects of chemotherapy, as well as chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension.

Promoting wild farming in Tennessee will pay dividends, with an estimated $32.5 million in net annual income and economic impact of up to $87.3 million. Wild-cultivated ginseng takes at least seven years to harvest, but its roots are more potent and more valuable than field-farmed.

Recognizing this potential, the USDA has invested heavily in Gao’s work, including a $455,000 grant (combined with $300,000 from MTSU) to develop biocontrol agents to prevent blight.

“Imagine getting a fungal disease in your fifth or sixth year that wipes out all your plants. It would be a disaster,” Gao said.

Of 19 states allowed to harvest and trade ginseng, Tennessee is the third-largest exporter. Locations with high harvest rates have high poverty and unemployment, especially in southeast Appalachia, where wild ginseng provides an economic safety net. IGI’s work is aiding such communities in a meaningful way. MTSU

Data collection has become a kind of currency over the past decade, whether it be from social media feeds, online shopping patterns, or other digital data that companies can source. But most organizations don’t specialize in analyzing such data to make better business decisions.

As a result, data science has emerged as a valuable new strategy in corporate circles.

In 2018, MTSU launched the Data Science Institute (DSI), the first of its kind in the midstate, to develop public and private collaborations around this emerging field of “big data.” Drawing on the expertise of faculty from disciplines ranging from agribusiness and sociology to chemistry and information systems, the interdisciplinary institute produces highly specific, highly targeted information for varied clients. In the course of this work, the DSI is generating novel new research in the digital age.

Funding entities are taking notice. Since 2019, the DSI has garnered more than $1 million in external grants from national sources. And in 2021, the state allocated nearly $2.6 million to create a fully integrated data science model at MTSU to develop a pipeline of students who can support workforce needs of the growing technology-based industries in the region.

The DSI aims to use data for the public good, including a past partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee.

AHEAD OF THE CURVE

The institute also conducts independent data research aimed at answering modern society’s most pressing questions. That includes partnering with global behemoth Amazon to study autonomous driving.

The DSI and Amazon Web Services recently held their first AWS DeepRacer machine learning contest at MTSU, featuring model cars programmed by students to navigate a course autonomously.

“From a workforce perspective . . . we’re looking for bright, young talent who understand intimately the details that are involved in high-performance computing, analytics, data science, machine learning,” said Joseph Hart (’90), an AWS principal account manager and MTSU alumnus based in Nashville.

DSI Director Ryan Otter said the need for data scientists is soaring nationwide. And tech workforce growth in middle Tennessee is projected to outpace national growth by an eye-popping 78% the next five years. Filling that need, MTSU recently added Tennessee’s first Data Science bachelor’s degree, just received approval on a master’s, and offers a Ph.D. in Computational and Data Science.

Nashville Technology Council President Brian Moyer praised MTSU’s efforts that “will play a critical role in generating the talent required to fuel our future growth.”

MTSU

Ryan Otter

Summer 2022 25

One of the leading economists in the 20th century, MTSU alumnus James M. Buchanan won the 1986 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences for his leadership in developing the public choice theory. A farm boy from Rutherford County, he is the only MTSU graduate ever awarded a Nobel.

Like Buchanan, Daniel J. Smith grew up in rural poverty.

Director of MTSU’s Political Economy Research Institute (PERI) since 2018 and an Economics professor, Smith was drawn to do graduate study at George Mason University, where he met and interacted with Buchanan.

“I wrote my dissertation under a committee comprised of his former students and co-authors, all well-known for their research in political economy,” said Smith, who published two books in 2021.

Housed jointly by MTSU’s Jennings A. Jones College of Business and University Honors College, PERI issues public policy studies; hosts debates and lectures; has built strong social media platforms; provides a vibrant voice to media editorial pages such as the Wall Street Journal and The Hill; and is adding to a growing bookshelf of publications, including the forthcoming The Ill-Gotten Gains of Crony One-Percenters.

At its core, the institute is a “privately funded, studentcentered MTSU institution, with a mission of engaging undergraduate and graduate students with faculty in both teaching and research that will further the understanding of free market, business, and economic principles, as well as their impact on regional, national, and international financial conditions and the well-being of society,” Smith said. “That is a mission that transcends politics.”

Seed money to help establish the institute came from a $3.5 million grant from the Charles Koch Foundation.

Ongoing student programming is made possible by private donors, many from Tennessee, Smith said.

PERI does not accept donations connected to directed research, and affiliated faculty have complete academic freedom and are expected to meet the rigorous standards of academic integrity.

Since its founding in 2016, the strength and success of the institute’s graduate programming has attracted Ph.D. candidates from around the country and the world. It is proof not just that the demand for economics courses is skyrocketing but that PERI is truly an institute for its time.

One such scholar, King University faculty member Emilia Suggs, holds the distinction of being the first PERI research fellow to earn her doctoral degree at MTSU. Suggs, whose research focuses on political economy and voting system design, was recently published in the Journal of Economic Behavior and Organization. MTSU

BLUE-CHIP INSTITUTE

Daniel J. Smith

26 MTSU Magazine

CSI: MTSU His research goes by titles such as “Common Household Rope and an Outdoor Hanging,” “Cervical Vertebrae Entrapment in the Noose,” and “Evidence of Prehistoric Violent Trauma from a Cave in Middle Tennessee.”

Such scholarly, albeit gruesome, work in the field of trauma earned longtime MTSU Professor Hugh Berryman a reputation as one of the nation’s foremost forensic anthropologists; in fact, he’s one of only 120 boardcertified forensic anthropologists in the world. Venerable institutions like the Smithsonian Institution regularly tap Berryman’s expertise on bones and bone trauma.

Certainly, the glamorization of forensics on television and in fiction has inflamed student interest across the U.S. At MTSU, Berryman turned that fascination with forensics into a flagship program. He did so in large part by founding MTSU’s Forensic Institute for Research and Education (FIRE), which advances forensic science through education, research, and community service.

For one, FIRE offers crucial training to medicolegal death investigators, local law enforcement, and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. When skeletal remains are found anywhere in Tennessee, there’s a strong likelihood Berryman will be on the road and invited behind the yellow crime tape.

Research and grant work also are substantial at FIRE— perhaps the most significant involving identification

Hugh Berryman

attempts and the return of soldiers who died in the Mexican-American War. Last, the institute boasts the Forensic Anthropology Search and Recovery team, a highly specialized student experiential learning opportunity. Team members prepare for future careers by assisting law enforcement and medical examiners with skeletal remains.

“The human skeleton records its own history,” Berryman said, “and if you know how to read that history, it’s almost as though you’re conducting an interview with the decedent.”

Berryman recently handed over the reins of the institute to Tom Holland—the former scientific director of the Department of Defense’s Central Identification Laboratory in Hawaii, who has led forensic recoveries around the world, from the barren deserts of Iraq to the steamy jungles of Vietnam to the snow-covered mountains of North Korea. Holland routinely briefs high-ranking military and government officials.

Every university wants all its programs to be as good as they can be. But some, by nature of the quality of the faculty and the uniqueness of the program, rise to a higher level nationally. The forensic program at MTSU—and the institute it supports—is precisely one of those signature programs impacting all of Tennessee. MTSU

Summer 2022 27

The work of the MTSU Center for Historic Preservation (CHP) continues to expand both academically and geographically, administering millions of research dollars along its path.

The center’s biggest impact is on the communities of Tennessee—large and small, rural and urban—in developing and providing, at no charge in most cases, historic preservation plans, historic structure reports, heritage tourism plans, Main Street program assistance, National Register and survey projects, and a host of other related support. The center also helps many of Tennessee’s heritage organizations.

Along the way, MTSU master’s and doctoral students in Public History have worked alongside the CHP’s nationally recognized director, Carroll Van West, and his staff, getting real-world historic preservation experience. (The Ph.D. program, launched in 2005, is one of only six in the nation.)

“There is no better way to learn history and develop a passion for it than to go put your hands on it,” West said.

Since 1985, CHP staff have managed the Tennessee Century Farms program to identify, document, and recognize farms that have been continuously in the same families for at least 100 years. The ongoing research has certified more than 1,800 Century Farms and became a model for other states.

large and small in the preservation and heritage development of these properties, leading to many National Register of Historic Places nominations.

In 2001, the CHP became administrator of the Tennessee Civil War National Heritage Area in partnership with the National Park Service—the first managed by a university.

During the ensuing two decades, center staff and students have steadily enhanced the effectiveness of statewide Civil War interpretation, preservation, education, and heritage tourism efforts, overseeing nearly $8.2 million in funds.

The CHP’s expansive fieldwork is impressive. So, too, is the CHP’s status as a national stalwart in the development of teaching methodology related to American history. In conjunction with the Library of Congress’ Teaching with Primary Sources program, the CHP’s multidisciplinary effort teaching the Civil War era across Tennessee in 2008 was highlighted in the Teaching with Primary Sources Journal inaugural issue. Thousands of teachers across the nation have since used the materials in their classrooms.

Future fireworks on the CHP drawing board include Tennessee’s plans to commemorate America’s 250th birthday July 4, 2026. West, who is Tennessee’s state historian, is initial chair of the Tennessee 250th Commission. MTSU

A second major statewide project, the Rural African American Church Survey, has engaged congregations

PROTECT AND PRESERVE 28 MTSU Magazine

Carroll Van West

Greg Rushton

PURSUIT OF COLLABORATION MTSU launched into the 21st-century world of STEM education with help from a $300,000 NASA grant to open a small center focused on programming and support for Tennessee teachers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Two decades later, the Tennessee STEM Education Center (TSEC) remains an outreach arm of MTSU aimed at improving STEM education, both locally and nationally.

These days, it has rocketed from a single star to become a bright constellation in the STEM education universe.

Building a culture of research and collaboration, TSEC has generated numerous grants from prestigious organizations including the National Science Foundation and U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Greg Rushton assumed the TSEC director reins in 2018, with a laser focus on STEM education, innovation, and research. Over his career, he has directed or co-directed more than 25 research or professional development projects, with external awards exceeding $18 million.

He has a solid mission in mind for TSEC: serve as a model of expertise and leadership in STEM education through the growth of research initiatives, fostering of partnerships, and expansion of educational programs, while seeking to engage with other stakeholders invested in STEM education.

“TSEC is positioned well, within MTSU, Tennessee, and the Southeast, for continued growth as a STEM leader for educators in both K–12 and higher education, as well as a provider of engaging experiences for K–12 students to explore STEM as a career path or as a lifelong learner,” Rushton said.

A prime example of this type of collaboration is MTSU’s selection by the Institute of Education Sciences as a partner institution on a nearly $1 million research grant awarded to the state. The award will support research on the effectiveness of Tennessee Pathways, an initiative that aligns K–12 and postsecondary schools with industry to provide students relevant education and training to seamlessly enter the workforce.

“We are encountering our future quicker than at any time in history,” Rushton said. “Consider Alexa and Siri, Amazon and Apple’s digital voice assistants, both applications of artificial intelligence. Most of us increasingly use this technology in our daily lives that barely more than a decade ago was largely unknown. . . . Expanding STEM education and developing a strong research enterprise— through basic, applied, and experimental approaches— prepares MTSU to be a catalyst of innovation and recognized as a thought leader not only in Tennessee, but across the country and our world in a rapidly growing arena.” MTSU Summer 2022 29

#MyMTStor y

What is your favorite Murphy Center memory?

We asked MTSU alumni to tell us about special times they shared at the Glass House the past half-century—concerts, commencement, games, or other events.

Marion Southall-White (’88) Working all the concerts at Murphy Center while I was a student, and I got a chance to meet & take pics with Stevie Wonder and Lionel Richie’s All Night Long Dancers in 1983/84.

RIP Shabba Doo . Secondly, watching my Roommate HOF Lady Raider Tawanya Mucker Wilson play Basketball. Thirdly, graduating in August 1988. #iamtrueblue

Lisa McGrath (’82)

Getting my degree/diploma is a given! But there was also presiding over TO’s All-Sing and 3rd row center tickets for The Eagles-The Long Run (camped out overnight for those babies)!

Eric Wimsatt (’96)

Russ Fulbright (’91)

Win over Vandy ’95 and camping out for Pearl Jam concert ’94

Old school registration where we had to run around and collect computer punch cards to get the classes we wanted.

Regina Petty (’07) Playing in back-to-back State Tournaments in high school.

Growing up going to individual and team balls camps every summer.

Taking college PE courses, and eventually walking the stage at Murphy Center when I graduated.

Murphy Center has been a part of my life for 40 years. Garth Brooks, The Judds’ Farewell concert, etc.

Shannon Burnette Brown (’02) Journey – first concert ever! A friend of my dad snuck in a camera!

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It’s where I met my husband AND where we got engaged!

Tammy Duffy (’81, ’97)

Elvis 3 nights in a row Ashley Johnson (’12, ’19)

My graduations in 2012 and 2019...then in 2021, when my daughter was on the floor with the newest freshman class!

Rob Boudreau (’94) I was almost kicked out of a women’s basketball game. The Tech coach went down on one knee while watching the game and I yelled “Praying won’t help, coach. God hates Tech, too!”

Steven Fulks (’94) MTSU victory over Austin Peay in the mid ’70s – and the concerts! Crosby Stills and Nash, Mountain, The Who, Elton John - such an incredible four years there! And my graduation with Senator Sasser speaking and Johnny Cash attending.

Ashlee Hover (’02, ’06, ’09)

Claudia Spivey House (’89, ’95)

Sleeping outside waiting for Billy Joel tickets to go on sale in the ’80s

Shirley Farris Jones I was there when we played our first game in Dec. 1972 against Vanderbilt in our brand-new glass house. So very many thrilling games over the years!

But, the year we were down 10 points with a minute to go and came back to defeat Austin Peay in 1975?? was certainly one of the most memorable.

And, on April 27, 1975 I touched ELVIS in Murphy Center!!!!!

Nick Shelton (’04)

I rode my skateboard down the big ramp and survived I’d only been a skateboarder a few months I also worked the Spin Doctors show at the MC Marcia Kelley Stephens (’95)

Elvis and when my boyfriend (husband now for 45 years) rode his bike down the concrete side of the steps. The last thing did not end as planned.

Chuck M. Treadway (’83) One day there was an indoor track meet and I decided to go check it out. I walked inside a door at track level and hadn`t been standing there 20 seconds when Herschel Walker came speeding by within 3 feet of me in the outside lane. Can`t even imagine trying to tackle that guy on a football field.

Barbara McGee Standifur

My Freshman Year I saw U2 November 1987!!! The Joshua Tree Tour

Shelia Bedwell (’75)

Chicago — 1973 homecoming David Huff (’76)

Linda Ronstadt in 1976 came out on the stage and said Hello Vanderbilt lol. Got some boos.

Don King

Paying general admission for Nine Inch Nails then jumping over the railing to get to the mosh pit on the floor.

Ric Chambers (’72)

I was at the Grand Opening, with Bob Hope.

John Atkinson (’94)

I have three from the early 90s.

1. Flashing Garth Brooks a peace sign and having him reciprocate.

2. B eing a seat filler for The Judds final concert.

It was filmed.

3. Being on stage in drag for a fraternity All Sing competition. Though I've really tried to forget this one Debbie Roth (’80)

I saw Bruce Springsteen there and graduated in that very same place in 1980.

Ashley Carson Jones (’96)

Bill Neal (’75) MTSU men’s basketball beating UT and Georgia in back to back games.

Seeing Magic Johnson play in the NCAA tournament.

The Judds last concert!

Keath Brown

Gregg Payne (’90)

Camping out there in the late ’80s for U2 tickets on the coldest night in years!

As much as I love the Murphy Center, I hate those steps…

Didn’t matter if I was walking up the hill or down the hill, I would fall EVERY TIME.

Summer 2022 31

OLD SCHOOL

32 MTSU Magazine

Old School A look back at MTSU’s past from our photo archives— Murphy Center, MTSU’s multipurpose arena with magical memories of graduations and games, in its heyday also hosted such heart-stopping acts as Olivia Newton-John’s Let Get Physical concert. From an opening game with Vanderbilt and the first show with Bob Hope to Elvis live five times.

U2’s Joshua Tree and Bruce Springsteen’s Born in the USA tours. Wrestling and the circus. Volunteer Jam II, Johnny and Waylon, Willie, Hank Jr., Dolly, Garth, and The Judds’ Farewell. Stevie, Tina, Whitney, Hammer, and Luther.

The Who, New Kids on the Block, Bon Jovi, Pearl Jam, Nine Inch Nails, and Boyz II Men. Turn these pages to relive past performances.

Photo by Jack Ross

Summer 2022 33

photo by Nathan Wallach

OLD SCHOOL

OLD SCHOOL

Summer 2022 37

NEW SCHOOL

Photo by Nathan Wallach 38 MTSU Magazine

New School Return to the glory days—Blue Raider basketball bounced back from five victories to 26, tying the largest win increase ever in Division I and conquering the Conference USA East.

MTSU went 15-0 in the Glass House.

Summer 2022 39

40 MTSU Magazine

Full-Court

by Allison Gorman

Over 40 years, Diane Turnham gives Title IX a big assist at home and away

Press

Diane Turnham calls herself “a Title IX baby.” She and the landmark legislation grew up together. Fifty years ago, when Congress officially prohibited sex-based discrimination in federally funded schools, Turnham was just a skinny eighth-grader in Mount Juliet, Tennessee.

Title IX was officially on the books when Turnham was following in her father’s footsteps as a basketball star at Mount Juliet High School. Except she was still playing half-court.

Title IX was 10 years old when Turnham was hired as MTSU’s first full-time assistant women’s basketball coach and learned that she’d be coaching volleyball too. (Two coaches for the price of one! One women’s coach, that is.)

During the next several years of long days, as Turnham helped transform MTSU’s underfunded women’s basketball team into conference champs while also driving the bus, taping ankles, and selling doughnuts to buy equipment for MTSU’s unfunded volleyball team, Title IX was established law.

The movement for equity in college athletics has always been sparked by determined women like Diane Turnham. Title IX simply kept the fire burning. In fact, the law was originally intended to ensure equity in academic tenure opportunities. It took years for its effects to trickle down to women’s athletics.

Turnham had been coaching at MTSU for 13 years before the Title IX effect gave her a chance to prove what she’d always known: “When you have the resources, you can do incredible things.”

Play Like a Girl Diane Turnham learned to love basketball from her dad, Charles Cummings; they’d shoot hoops together between chores on the family farm. But for all practical purposes, it was also the only sport girls could play in Mount Juliet.

“When I came through, it was pretty much basketball or nothing,” she said. “My high school coach, Larry Joe Inman, started track so that we could condition out of season too.”

Inman’s girls played “like boys” only to the degree that they were tough and physical, trapping and pressing even on the half-court, Turnham said. Unlike the boys, they could pack a gym at home and away.

On the strength of his 126–24 record at Mount Juliet, Inman was hired to coach at MTSU. He recruited Turnham, but she took a pass.

Photos by J. Intintoli

Summer 2022 41

IX women’s sports now at MTSU I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX

Basketball Cross country Golf Indoor track and field Outdoor track and field Soccer Softball Tennis Volleyball

“I’ve never worked harder in my life than I did in high school for that man,” she said, “and while I appreciated him for molding me into the player I was, I wasn’t sure I wanted to play for him again just yet.”

Instead she played (full-court, finally) at Volunteer State Community College and then David Lipscomb University.

She went on to Austin Peay State University, where she coached as a graduate assistant while earning her master’s and doctorate in education. She saw coaching as a means to an end: She wanted to be an elementary school teacher.

Inman watched her coaching and saw potential. He offered her a full-time job at MTSU as his assistant coach. This time she accepted his offer. It was 1982.

When Turnham met with then-athletic director Jimmy Earle to formally accept the job, he welcomed her and mentioned that she’d be coaching volleyball, too.

She protested that there must have been a mistake, that she’d never even played volleyball, much less coached it.

No Bench Support Earle was right, though. Turnham did great.

Basketball may have been her first love, but volleyball— specifically, MTSU’s eager but woefully overlooked and under-resourced volleyball team—became her passion.

It was clear to her that women’s basketball benefited organically from the existence of men’s basketball. MTSU had a charter bus, so if the teams’ schedules meshed, the women could travel too. But volleyball was a women’s sport only. There was no infrastructure to borrow. She had to scrape together money for uniforms and shoes and equipment. She had to figure out travel, too. She got her chauffeur’s license so she could drive a van or minibus to and from away games. On trips home she was often so tired that one of her players would sit up front and talk to her to keep her awake.

“You’ll do great,” he said.

Turnham gave of herself what she couldn’t offer in scholarships. Behind the scenes, Turnham was always pushing for more.

“That’s my Title IX story,” Turnham said. “They needed someone to coach the team, and resources were limited then. So despite the fact that our men’s [basketball] program had two full-time assistants that didn’t coach any other sport, I was brought in making a little less than they were—actually probably quite a bit less than they were— and I was also asked to coach another sport I didn’t really know anything about.”

She quickly learned that coaching women necessarily meant advocating for them, following the trail blazed by determined women like Belmont’s Betty Wiseman and Tennessee Tech’s Marynell Meadors, a former Blue Raider.

They put women’s basketball on the map in the state even before a dynamo graduate assistant, then known as Pat Head, began pushing for resources to build a women’s basketball program at the University of Tennessee.

42 MTSU Magazine

Between her coaching and her advocating, Turnham’s original career plans fell by the wayside.

“I thought I would coach for four or five years and go back and teach elementary school,” she said. “But it got in my blood and I loved it. I loved being able to see our athletes come in and work on their degree and receive financial support in the sport that they loved. So we fought for more scholarships. We fought for more travel money. We fought for more coaches. We fought for better facilities. We just knew it was the right thing to do.”

She fought for her athletes even though her own treatment wasn’t equitable to that of her male counterparts.

“I can’t say that I didn’t complain about my salary versus theirs, or my workload,” she said. “Yet while it didn’t seem fair, and there were certain aspects of it I did resent, I so wanted our female athletes to have the opportunity to play the sports they loved that I was more than willing to do it.”

Upping Her Game It hadn’t taken long for the women’s basketball team to show the positive results of Inman and Turnham’s coaching.

In her first six years at MTSU, the team won the Ohio Valley Conference championship every year.

Volleyball was another story. “There were some lean, lean years,” she said.

The volleyball team shared space with the rec leagues in Alumni Gym, so even getting adequate practice was a struggle. As usual, Turnham made the best of the resources available to her—in this case rec players who were hanging around. SAE’s team wanted more practice time, and her team needed practice players. Turnham turned it into a W.

“ When you have the resources, you can do incredible things.”

“We were just doing whatever it took to enhance our program,” she said. “We started getting better athletes, and we got some additions to our scholarships. And I started to realize I wanted more.”

It hadn’t escaped her notice that more women were being hired as college athletics administrators, UT’s Joan Cronan being the most obvious example. Turnham envisioned herself as an administrator; it seemed a logical career step.

She also envisioned what she could do in that role.

By then the NCAA had passed a new rule: Every member institution had to have at least one woman in senior-level athletics administration. As the only obvious candidate, Turnham applied for and was offered that spot at MTSU. Unfortunately, it was part time. She’d have to keep coaching, too.

Of course she took the job.

MTSU’s new AD, Lee Fowler, assured her she’d have the full-time position when funding was available. Eventually he got the funding and offered her the job.

“I told Lee, ‘I really want this job, but only if you let me hire a real volleyball coach,’” Turnham said.

The very next year, 1995—the first year Turnham was an administrator and not a coach—MTSU’s volleyball team was OVC champion.

That was the highlight of Turnham’s career.

“We won a lot of championships in basketball,” she said, “but that first one in volleyball was the sweetest I’ve ever had, because I knew how far we’d come. We’d come from the cellar all the way to the penthouse.

“Seeing the success of our women’s programs is a huge thing for me. I just wanted us to have the same opportunities [as the men], and I felt like if we did, we could be competitive.”

Natural Athletes Over her 40 years at MTSU, Turnham has used every position she’s had to give female athletes opportunities to prove her right. She brought new women’s sports to MTSU, including soccer and golf, and has pushed for opportunities nationally by serving on the NCAA committees for women’s soccer, volleyball, and basketball.

She chaired the basketball committee in 2019–20.

Now MTSU’s senior associate athletic director and senior women’s administrator, Turnham admits there’s plenty of work yet to do—and not just at home. That was evident last year, when a viral Instagram post revealed shocking disparities between the men’s and women’s facilities at the NCAA basketball tournaments.

"You might think, Title IX—we’ve risen above that, but not totally. Because obviously the TV rights are very different, the sponsorship dollars are very different, and the sizes of venues are very different. Still, we’ve made incredible progress.”

That’s true by all objective measures. The playing field gets a little more level every year.

But a subtler measure of that progress is reflected in the athletes themselves, young women who’ve surely heard of Title IX but probably have no idea what earlier generations of determined women have done for them. They’re just playing the game they love in exchange for a good education. Like it’s the most natural thing in the world.

Diane Turnham’s fine with that. MTSU

Summer 2022 43

MIDPOINTS

A look at recent awards, events, and accomplishments at MTSU compiled by Stephanie Barrette, Gina E. Fann, Jimmy Hart, Gina K. Logue, Drew Ruble, and Randy Weiler

True Blue Role Model Alumnus and MTSU Board of Trustees member Darrell S. Freeman Sr. (’87, ’90) died June 28, 2022, from what his family described as a serious illness. Among his many accomplishments, Freeman was a first-generation college graduate and a trail-blazing businessman. He created his own IT company, Zycron, that, over 25 years, became a multimillion-dollar business. He sold it and used the resources to help aspiring Black entrepreneurs overcome obstacles and find success in business. Freeman also was a private pilot who lent his services and aircraft for international relief missions. His energy and devotion to helping disadvantaged and underserved students find a path forward, in education and in business, was front and center in his work as the first vice chair of MTSU’s Board of Trustees, as well as his two terms as chair of the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce. His service to MTSU, as a role model, donor, volunteer, and leader, leaves a legacy that will inspire students for generations to come.

Freeman once urged graduates in a Commencement ceremony to “take over the world” but to do it “with compassion . . . because the world needs more compassion . . . and do it with the sole purpose of helping people who are less fortunate than you are. If you do these things, you will have represented MTSU very well.”

Legendary Loss Dean Hayes, MTSU’s track and field coach of 57 years, died Jan. 7 at age 84 while still active with the program. Hayes guided Blue Raider teams to 29 Ohio Valley Conference titles, 19 Sun Belt championships, 11 C-USA crowns, and 21 NCAA Top 25 finishes. He received four Conference USA Coach of the Year accolades, 16 Sun Belt Coach of the Year awards, and 15 OVC Coach of the Year honors, which included 10 in a row from 1977 to 1986. He was inducted into the Blue Raider Hall of Fame in 1982. Importantly, Hayes, who first stepped onto the campus in 1965, is credited with integrating MTSU athletics. His first recruit, Jerry Singleton, became the first African American varsity scholarship athlete at MTSU. Others followed as their quietly competitive coach recruited more and more Black athletes. When those athletes arrived on campus, so did their girlfriends, sisters, brothers, and friends.

As such, Hayes is also rightly credited with integrating campus. He served as the first advisor for Kappa Alpha Psi, a Greek letter fraternity with predominantly African American membership, when it began a chapter at MTSU. Hayes deserves much of the credit for the increased presence of international students at MTSU as well. Under his guidance, international athletes began arriving from Nigeria, Uganda, Kenya, and other places in the 1970s.

Summer 2022 45

MIDPOINTS

Distinguished Honors Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Edward Davis (pictured) and former Gov. Bill Haslam were awarded honorary doctorates

by MTSU President Sidney A. McPhee during spring Commencement. Speakers at three ceremonies—Davis, retired Bridgestone Americas executive and MTSU Board Vice Chair Christine Karbowiak, and faculty Career Achievement Award winner Tim Graeff—praised the resolve of the 2,474 new graduates. “Nothing should hold back the size and shape of your dreams. It is our talent for imagination and creativity that make us humans,” Davis told graduates at the morning ceremony. When the day was done, MTSU also reached a new milestone of conferring more than 175,000 degrees since the University’s founding in 1911, pushing the total number earned past 175,820.

Firsthand View MTSU returned to the Grammys in full force in 2022 as the University resumed its annual pilgrimage to the music industry’s biggest showcase to celebrate alumni nominees and provide students with career-building experiences. MTSU President Sidney A. McPhee joined faculty, students, and administrators from the colleges of Media and Entertainment and Liberal Arts in Las Vegas for the 64th annual Grammy Awards on Sunday, April 3. COVID-19 concerns in 2021 broke MTSU’s seven-year streak of hosting Grammy site events and lining up student experiences. Nine alumni nominated for Grammys this year are profiled in the Class Notes section of this magazine. (see page 54). Those nominees were recognized by the University at an MTSU Alumni Association gathering April 2 in Las Vegas. Meanwhile, five Media and Entertainment students helped prepare the MGM Grand Conference Center for the 31st annual MusiCares Person of the Year benefit gala honoring legendary performer Joni Mitchell.

Scout Pledge MTSU and the Middle Tennessee Council of the Boy Scouts of America renewed a partnership allowing prospective students from the council, which serves 37 middle Tennessee counties and Fort Campbell, Kentucky, to attend events on campus and seek faculty mentors for activities and merit badges. MTSU Provost Mark Byrnes joined former Council President J.B. Baker, a member of the University’s Board of Trustees, and Council Scout Executive and CEO Larry Brown, in signing the renewal, which runs through 2025. About 20,000 youths and their families participate in programs conducted by the Nashville-based council, which is consistently among the nation’s fastest-growing councils.

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Will Work for Tuition Amazon announced a partnership with more than 140 universities and colleges, including MTSU, to provide fully paid tuition for more than 750,000 hourly Amazon workers. According to Amazon, its $1.2 billion investment to this Career Choice program is expected to aid more than 300,000 employees by 2025. In the past year, MTSU has signed similar agreements with local franchise owners of both McDonald’s and Chick-fil-A.

Center Ice MTSU’s Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veterans and Military Family Center was showcased during the Nashville Predators Military Appreciation Night on March 8. Fifty student veterans attended the NHL game between the Predators and the Dallas Stars in Bridgestone Arena.

The Predators featured MTSU student veteran Orrin Farmer, an Aerospace Professional Pilot major planning to graduate in August, as one of the Daniels Center’s success stories. In addition to his academic studies, Farmer works at the MTSU Flight Operations Center as a flight instructor and in maintenance.

Race to Excellence MTSU Professor Andrew Owusu, graduate director for the public health unit within the Department of Health and Human Performance, accepted the John Pleas Faculty Award in a February ceremony. Owusu became the 26th recipient of the award, presented annually during the University’s Black History Month observance to a tenured or tenure-track Black faculty member who has demonstrated excellence in teaching, research, and service. A native of Ghana, Owusu is an eight-time All-American and three-time Olympian and an assistant MTSU track coach. Owusu’s research interests include adolescent health risk behaviors and protective factors, childhood lead poisoning, and school health policies and practices. He has secured more than $895,000 in external and internal grants in support of research and service over the past 15 years.

Good Advice Unsung Heroes Five stellar members of the Black community received honors at MTSU’s 26th annual Unity Luncheon in February. This year’s honorees were Elma McKnight, retired educator from Murfreesboro City Schools, recognized for service to education; Thomas Keith, MTSU alumnus and longtime track and field coach, selected for excellence in sports; Carl E. Watkins, retired Murfreesboro police captain and youth volunteer, honored as an advocate of civility; Melbra Simmons, media office coordinator for MTSU’s True Blue TV and committee member for the Tennessee Girls in STEM Conference, chosen for community service; and Robert Orr Jr., Murfreesboro artist, recognized for commitment to Black arts.

The advising manager for MTSU’s College of Education is proving that the University’s massive 2014 investment in student advising is paying off. Women in Higher Education in Tennessee bestowed its latest Woman of Achievement Award on Alicia Abney, the second consecutive MTSU employee to receive this recognition. Judith Iriarte-Gross, an MTSU Chemistry professor, won the honor in 2020. A former secondary school teacher from Indiana, Abney began her MTSU career as a tutor for redshirt freshman football players.

Summer 2022 47

MIDPOINTS

Supply and Demand With supply chain disruptions and resulting product shortages and delivery delays in the headlines, MTSU launched a new bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management earlier this year. The Jennings A. Jones College of Business pursued and received approval to transform its Supply Chain Management concentration within its Department of Management into a standalone major that provides graduates a leg up in a burgeoning job market. Letters of support for the transition came from area logistics and distribution heavyweights such as Ingram Content Group, Nissan North America, and Kasai North America, to name a few. MTSU’s Board of Trustees more recently approved a request to the state to launch a new Master of Science in Supply Chain Management.

Service to Servants A new degree program in MTSU’s University College will allow more adults and public servants to earn their bachelor’s degrees. Starting with the Fall 2022 semester, students will be able to choose the new Public Safety concentration as part of the Integrated Studies major. The degree program can be completed online and is specifically designed for those already working in law enforcement, homeland security, emergency management, fire safety, dispatch, and other public service fields at the local, state, and federal levels. The program allows adult students to convert eligible prior work and training and certifications into college credit and use up to 48 credits toward electives.

A

true

BLUE

Thank you to those who gave generously in the 202 2

Thank you

48 MTSU Magazine

5th Annual true Blue Give!

Thanks to 802 True Blue supporters, we raised $631,167 in gifts—far surpassing the $500,000 goal. Scholarships, student emergency funds, the Build Blue Campaign, and countless other campus activities and programs received support that will empower students’ success.

You make MTSU a finer institution day after day, year after year.

Sidney A. McPhee, President

Rhetorical Device The MTSU Board of Trustees in April approved a request for another new academic degree, a Bachelor of Science in Public Writing and Rhetoric, the first of its kind in Tennessee. The program, given final approval by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission in May, will be a viable double major for students in other fields that require strong writing skills.

“Public and technical writing genres, like proposals, reports, and blogs, are in high demand in middle Tennessee’s growing tech-based economy,” MTSU Provost Mark Byrnes said. “Rhetorical skills, like process documentation and internal communications management, will continue to be needed as large companies establish new headquarters in the greater Nashville area.”

Crime and Punishment Criminal Justice Administration Associate Professor Ben Stickle’s research and evaluation efforts helped the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation receive $950,000 in funding to study crime trends during COVID and the state’s efforts to combat human trafficking. As a former police officer, Stickle’s mission in academia is still to combat crime and make communities safer. “I want clear, actionable research that will help someone not be a victim of a crime, and when it does occur, to help police solve crime,” Stickle said. “We can . . . prevent crime by understanding the structure and nature of it.”

Digging in the Dirt Shining Stars Country music megastar Garth Brooks and Tennessee Titans standout safety Kevin Byard, an MTSU graduate, met with Blue Raider studentathletes in April for the Stay in the Game event with Brooks’ Teammates for Kids foundation. The singer also visited with retired Army Lt. Gen. Keith Huber, MTSU’s senior advisor for veterans and leadership initiatives, and learned how the University’s Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veterans and Military Families Center serves student veterans. Brooks’ four-night run at MTSU’s Murphy Center in 1994 sold more than 40,000 tickets, breaking Elvis Presley’s record for the arena.

Nine billion people. That’s the projected world population by 2050, raising concerns among producers and policymakers about the sustainability of current crop production systems. “A large part of the solution might be right under our feet,” said Chaney Mosley, an Agricultural Education assistant professor. Mosley is spearheading the collaboration of a $749,999 U.S. Department of Agriculture/National Institute of Food and Agriculture grant involving three universities. The three-year research endeavor, which includes MTSU students, will investigate soil management practices for improved soil health and the related effects on crop and animal productivity, food quality, and economic viability of integrated farming systems, Mosley said.

Summer 2022 49

MIDPOINTS

Spider Sense Three former MTSU student biology researchers and their mentor, MTSU Biology Professor Ryan Otter, are part of a recently published collaboration receiving international notoriety. Alumni Gale Beaubien, Connor Olson, and Andrew Todd joined Otter—who is also director of the MTSU Data Science Institute—in being part of a team whose work was published in Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, an international scientific journal. The paper, “Use of Riparian Spiders as Sentinels of Persistent and Bioavailable Chemical Contaminants in Aquatic Ecosystems: A Review,” suggests national-scale programs to monitor chemical contaminants in aquatic ecosystems using spiders.

Refreshed Perspective The National Trust for Historic Preservation announced in April that Nashville Sites and Nashville Queer History will receive a $25,000 grant to document the often-overlooked LGBTQ+ history of Nashville and middle Tennessee. MTSU’s Center for Historic Preservation and Albert Gore Research Center are partners with the grant, as well as Vanderbilt University Libraries, Just Us at Oasis Center, and the Nashville LGBT Chamber of Commerce.

Going the Distance MTSU was named to Newsweek’s list of “America’s Top Online Colleges 2022.” The prestigious recognition is presented by Newsweek and Statista Inc., the world’s leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider. MTSU ranked 40th among the 150 higher-ed institutions highlighted and was the only Tennessee university on the list. MTSU has invested heavily in recent years in technology upgrades to expand its ability to provide high-quality online courses both synchronously and asynchronously.

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Decision-Maker Newsweek also recognized MTSU as among the “Best Maker Schools in Higher Education 2021.” Newsweek partnered with Make, publisher of Make: magazine and books, to develop the list. Only three Tennessee schools—MTSU, Tennessee Tech University, and Vanderbilt University— made the non-ranked international list, which also includes universities such as Brown, Princeton, Yale, and UCLA in the U.S. MTSU’s James E. Walker Library is home to the Makerspace, which provides students and faculty with access to robotics, electronics, sewing, computers, software, laser etchers, button-making, virtual reality technology, and 3D printing, among other resources.

GRADUATE STUDIES

IN YOUR REACH A graduate degree can provide you with additional expertise, increased earnings, and improved job security.

MTSU offers more than 100 affordable graduate degree programs, many of which are nationally ranked, to help you reach your potential.

Degrees include: • Strategic Leadership • Industrial / Organizational Psychology • Public History

• Supply Chain Management • Business Intelligence and Analytics and many more!

mtsu.edu/graduate

MTSU NEWS

MTSUNEWS.COM

TRUE BLUE NEWS ANY TIME Stay up to date all year round

True Blue 'Roo

Teacher Factory

At publication time, a team of about 25 MTSU students produced content at Bonnaroo again, learning and working at one of the world’s premier livemusic experiences that doubles as a university classroom. “This is not playtime for them,” said Beverly Keel, dean of the College of Media and Entertainment. “This is really, I would say boots on the ground, but flip-flops on the ground.” See full coverage at MTSUNews.com.

MTSU created a new center in its College of Education to focus on recruiting and retaining diverse teacher candidates, graduate students, and faculty in an effort to better serve and encourage students from underserved communities—particularly Black males.

Professor Michelle Stevens was named director of the new Fairness, Justice, and Equity Center. mtsunews.com/board-of-trusteesdec2021-recap

mtsunews.com/bonnaroo-2022-day2

Extending a Hand Low-income MTSU students needing help with child care costs can apply for about 40 grants of around $1,000 each semester beginning Fall 2022.

The program, put into place with the 2021 closing of the Child Care Lab at Womack Lane Apartments, will allow MTSU to expand greatly the number of students receiving assistance. Grants will be available to students who are Pell-eligible. mtsunews.com/child-care-grants-lowincome-students

For Future Reference

MTSU President Sidney A. McPhee will represent Conference USA for the third time on the NCAA Board of Directors, the top governing body for Division I athletics. McPhee, who previously served in the role in 2003–07 and 2010–13, was elected for the term through August 2024.

The Economics graduate program within MTSU’s Jennings A. Jones College of Business made the U.S. News and World Report ranking of top U.S. programs for the first time. MTSU, which boasts both Ph.D. and master’s degrees in Economics, was among only three universities in Tennessee making the 139-school list.

The Reference and User Services Association, a division of the American Library Association, designated America’s National Anthem: ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ in U.S. History, Culture and Law as one of the 10 outstanding reference sources of the year. Its editor, John R. Vile, is dean of MTSU’s University Honors College and a political scientist. ABC-CLIO published his book in January 2021.

mtsunews.com/mcphee-elected-ncaaboard-of-directors-2022

mtsunews.com/economics-phd-usnews-ranking-2022

mtsunews.com/vile-reference-bookaward-feb2022

Athletic Power

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Economics Prowess

MEMBERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE The Middle Tennessee State University Foundation recognizes a dedicated group of alumni and friends whose lifetime giving exceeds $100,000. These donors are a part of the Old Main Society, named after the first building on campus, Kirksey Old Main.

These devoted donors understand how much students, faculty, and the campus are impacted by philanthropic giving. We applaud their unwavering support of MTSU over the years for scholarships, academics, and athletics.

Karen and Andy Adams Cindy and Fred Adams Dorothy Adams Susanne and Robert Adams Drs. Reita and Raj Aggarwal Elizabeth and Brad Allen Nancy and Jerry Allen Martha and Tom Boyd Elizabeth Whorley Bradley Faye Brandon Dewon Brazelton Peggy and Ernest Burgess Milbrey and Tommy Campbell Pamela and Paul Campbell Dr. Keith Carlson Edward “Chip” Chappell Dr. Walter and Denise Chitwood Barbara Cobble Linda and Ron Cooper Jane Creek Lassie McDonald Crowder James Dunlap Col. Bob Farris Virginia Fielder Gina and John Floyd Gloria and Darrell Freeman Charlotte Gardner Mary Belle Ginanni Bart Gordon Jean Gould Dana and Wayne Groce James Hailey Clyde Hall Dr. Barbara and Jerre Haskew Renee and John Hawkins Dr. Jan Hayes Raiko Henderson Kay Hendrix Dr. Bella Higdon

Deborah and Joey Jacobs Betsy Johns Karen Jones Kathy and Bill Jones Dr. Kiyoshi and Erna Van Der Schaaf Kawahito Mayor Bill and Teresa Ketron Richard Key Joe Klingenmeyer Laurie Knowles Jeff Lane Gloria and Ted Laroche Dr. Patsy Ledoux Glenda and Ira Lewis Mary Lovelace William Marbet Dr. Lee and Carla Martin Paul W. Martin Jr. Murray Martin Carolyn and Tony Matusek Frances and Donald McDonald Jo Ellen and Chuck McDowell Carolyn and Don Midgett Linda Mooningham John Morris Bud Morris Kitty Murfree Judy and Charlie Myatt Dr. Sandy and Bill Neal Judy and G. Ron Nichols Beth and James O'Brien Marie and Bob Parks Nancy and Charles Pigg Anita and Mark Pirtle Laura Holland Preston LTC J.G. Prince Sandra Ray Dr. Dan and Margaret Scott Hillary Scott

Contee Seely Marisa and Nicholas Sheumack Dr. Lorraine Singer Denise and Stephen B. Smith Tommy Smith Julie and Lanas Smith Reese Smith III Eva Mae and Ross Spielman Brenda and Joseph Steakley Rocky Strickland Julia and Johnny Sullivan Charlotte and Rick Swafford Clara Todd Martha and Larry Tolbert Roxane and George Vernardakis Esther and Coon Victory Robert Wahl Sally Wall Jerry Wauford Jackie Welsh Elizabeth Whisenant Jeff Whorley Suzanne Williams Maggie and Guy Wilson Rhonda and Cyrus Wiser Hanna and Don Witherspoon Cherry and Andy Womack Kay Woodfin Pamela Wright Chris Young

Want to make a difference?

Contact: Kristen Keene, Director of Annual Giving kristen.keene@mtsu.edu 615-898-2728 mtsu.edu/development

Summer 2022 53

CL ASS NOTES

Ceylon Wise and Ashley Brooks Wise, Grammy nominees for best children's music album

The work of MTSU graduates once again shone at the annual Grammy Awards, with nine alumni nominated in genres ranging from pop to roots to gospel to traditional blues and Latin music at the April 2022 event in Las Vegas.

Maria Elisa Ayerbe (’15), fresh off a 2021 Latin Grammys quadruple nomination for her producing, engineering, and songwriting on fellow Colombian Paula Arenas’ Mis Amores album, was included in this year’s best Latin pop album Grammy category for engineering Arenas’ project.

Multi-Grammy winner Tony Castle (’95) was back among the best traditional pop vocal album nominees with That’s Life, Willie Nelson’s second tribute collection of Frank Sinatra’s music, and was also a nominee for the top traditional blues album for engineering Blues Traveler’s latest release, Traveler’s Blues. Billy Hickey (’06), the go-to guy for studio tracking for stars like Selena Gomez, Justin Bieber, and Usher, among others, made the list of best pop vocal album Grammy nominees for his work on Ariana Grande's Positions. F. Reid Shippen (’94) was back among

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the Grammy nominees with country standout Mickey Guyton, whose 2021 release, Remember Her Name, was nominated for best country album. Jason A. Hall (’00) and Jimmy Mansfield (’14), last year’s best country album Grammy winners, were nominated in the same category in 2022 for engineering the Brothers Osborne’s Skeletons.

Wayne Haun (’00), a multi-Grammy award winner, was included in this year’s best roots gospel album category with his longtime collaborators Ernie Haase and Signature Sound and their newest album, Keeping On. And Ceylon Wise (’03) and Ashley Brooks Wise (’03), pictured here at an MTSU reception held in honor of the nominees in Las Vegas the night before the Grammys show, were nominated in the best children’s music album category for their work on All One Tribe, a compilation album featuring 24 family music artists, known collectively as 1 Tribe Collective, who aim to educate, encourage, and inspire Black children.

Leah Tolbert Lyons Leah Tolbert Lyons (’95) was named dean of the MTSU College of Liberal Arts. An MTSU professor of French, Lyons previously served as interim dean of the college. Her research interests include Francophone literature and film from Africa and its diaspora with a particular focus on female writers and gender theory, as well as questions of madness, identity, mother-daughter relationships, and representations of romantic love.

1960s Helen Underwood (’63), Charlottesville, Virginia, has published four books: Under Cedar Shades, The House of Lakshmi Chatteerjee, More Than the Eye Can See, and I’ll Never Tell, a work of historical fiction about Oak Ridge.

1980s Brett Fulford (’84), Cleveland, Ohio, who has more than three decades of experience leading global businesses for Fortune 200 companies, was appointed general manager for Parker Hannifin-Aerospace Group.

Gregory D. Smith (’85), Clarksville, released the second edition of the Tennessee Municipal Judges Benchbook in 2022.

The first edition, published in 2013, was cited by the Harvard Law Review in 2021. Smith has served as the city court judge in Pleasant View since 1997.

Dr. Bill Herrick (’87, ’88, ’89), Elkins, New Hampshire, released his book BB Stackers. A retired MTSU Aerospace professor, Herrick was the owner of Herrick Aviation Co. and manager of Taylor County Airport, in Medford, Wisconsin.

Katherine Baker Gaston (’89), Springfield, had her MTSU M.A. thesis, Dr. William A. Cheatham, Tennessee’s First Mental Health Professional, published by Belmont Mansion Press.

1990s Luis Giacoman (’90), Miami, Florida, was named senior vice president of operations and quality for Barfield Inc., a subsidiary of Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance in the Americas.

Gerald L. Harris (’90), Chattanooga, was appointed principal at

Garber Construction Academy, the latest Future Ready Center in Hamilton County. Harris has been a Hamilton County educator and principal since 2007.

Richard Hickey (’90), Nashville, is the new chief of police for the Brentwood Police Department.

Alan Harper (’91), Blue Bell, Pennsylvania, was awarded tenure at Gwynedd Mercy University as associate professor of finance.

Michelle Duke (’94), Manassas, Virginia, president of the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation,

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CL ASS NOTES

You too can create a scholarship or legacy gift through your will MTSU has partnered with FreeWill to offer you the ability to write your legally binding will.

Take 25 minutes and use the FreeWill online tool—free of charge— to write your will and plan for the future!

Get started at FreeWill.com/MTSU For questions about charitable giving to MTSU, contact Paul Wydra, Director of Initiatives, paul.wydra@mtsu.edu or 615-904-8409

was selected by the Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio charitable organization as the 2022 recipient of the MIW Preston Trailblazer Award, presented annually to a woman who creates opportunities for other women in radio.

James “Doug” Sloan (’94), Nashville, joined the office of Waller Lansden Dortch & Davis, leading the firm’s land use and zoning team. Sloan spent more than 20 years working for Metropolitan Nashville government.

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Jon Cooper (’97), Nashville, joined the office of Waller Lansden Dortch & Davis, practicing real estate law. Cooper pulls from his 20 years of experience with the Metropolitan Nashville government when handling contract negotiation, legislation, municipal finance, and regulatory matters.

Richard Stone Jr. (’98, ’04), Murfreesboro, joined CapStar Bank, a subsidiary of CapStar Financial Holdings Inc., as senior vice president, Rutherford and Williamson counties market president.

Stone previously led Reliant Bank’s expansion into Rutherford County as market president.

2000s Briana Mullenax (’04), Brentwood, was named vice president at the Carter Hooper Group, a Nashville branch office of Baird Private Wealth Management.

Diane Brown (’05, ’09), Tallahassee, Florida, selfpublished her book My Journey: Life as a Nursing Home Administrator.

Mikki Rose (’05), White Plains, New York, joined Mikros Animation as a groom and CFX (character simulation) supervisor.

Mikros Animation is part of the wider Technicolor Creative Studios family, with studios in Paris, Bangalore, and Montreal, where Rose predominantly works.

Sara Jo Houghland Walker (’05), Nashville, was promoted to senior director of public relations for Comcast’s South Region, based in Nashville. Walker previously served as director of communications for the

Colton Gray

Minh Le Minh Le (’11, ’12) is senior vice president in the Nashville office of Finn Partners, a leading global marketing agency, where for the last nine years he has led marketing campaigns for global business brands—most notably, Jack Daniel’s.

Le was selected to the Nashville Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 list of emerging business leaders in 2022.

Tennessee Department of Revenue and as a liaison to the Tennessee Film Commission.

Clarence Plank (’08), Lewisburg, has published seven books of poetry, including Death of a Gentleman.

Russell Luna (’09), Dallas, was named senior communications specialist

MTSU, its Aerospace Department, and Delta Air Lines celebrated the fourth anniversary of their pilot pipeline partnership in April 2022 by recognizing alumnus Colton Gray (’18) as the first graduate of Delta’s Propel pilot program. In 2018, MTSU was among the first universities to enter the partnership with Delta to encourage qualified Professional Pilot students to pursue a defined, accelerated path allowing candidates to earn their flight certifications, build their experience, and meet all requirements to become a Delta pilot in 42 months or less. Gray began training in May 2022 to fly for Delta as the next step in the accelerated program to fill a growing industry need for aviators. Gray applied early, flew three years with Republic Airways, and became the first Propel pilot for Delta, which now has similar partnerships with 15 aviation schools nationwide.

for engineering/architecture firm Halff Associates in Richardson, Texas.

Adam Wells (’09), Paducah, Kentucky, was promoted to sports director for television station WPSD.

2010s M.R. Chaney (’10), Tullahoma, released a “World War 3” novel, A

Vision to Die For, about one man who will do whatever it takes to rescue the love of his life from behind enemy lines.

challenges, achieved the status of Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) through the National Business Aviation Association.

Kellie N. Roby (’11), Lakeland, who works for Arizona-based aviation safety software company Polaris Aero, helping flight departments identify and address their safety

James “Jimmy” Mosier, Morristown, a CPA, was named partner at the accounting firm of Purkey, Carter, Compton, Swann & Carter, PLLC.

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CL ASS NOTES

HunterGirl flies high as American Idol runner-up Before she punched her ticket to Hollywood, American Idol runner-up HunterGirl left home and traveled up the road to hone her craft in MTSU’s acclaimed Recording Industry program.

Hunter Wolkonowski (’20), a 23-year-old singer-songwriter from Winchester, made a return trip to her hometown to embrace her roots before the May 22 season finale of Idol, where she debuted her original song “Red Bird.”

Wearing a metallic red dress and playing guitar, she evoked tears, cheers, and a standing ovation from the studio audience, her family, and judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan.

“You’re not a star, you’re a supernova. . . . American Idol ends tonight, but your career is gonna be forever,” Perry said. “You have your wings.”

At her hometown visit, some 500 fans endured the hot sun in front of the Oldham Theatre on Winchester’s public square.

MTSU’s Beverly Keel, dean of the College of Media and Entertainment, and Odie Blackmon, hit songwriter and coordinator of the Commercial Songwriting program, presented HunterGirl with an honorary professorship from her alma mater.

58 MTSU Magazine

“As you inspire millions of young men and women across America, you remind us that the voices of small-town America are vital to this country,” Keel said. “You’re teaching us to listen to our hearts, stay true to who we are, and celebrate our uniqueness.”

HunterGirl, who earned her degree with a Music Business concentration, took a songwriting class from Blackmon in 2019. He praised her humility and her authenticity.

“I found her voice to be unique, and then Hunter distinguished herself by being a very generous co-writer and fellow student,” Blackmon said.

“She came [to MTSU] to work on her craft and her skills, but she knew who she was.”

Blackmon also praised HunterGirl for continuing to work with military veterans, using her music as therapy, even after MTSU’s three-year Operation Song project concluded in 2019.

HunterGirl entered the grand finale of Season 20 of American Idol in the top three before advancing into the final two with eventual winner Noah Thompson.

“Thanks for believing in me,” she said on the finale, later adding, “I think I’ve grown more this year than I ever have in my entire life.”

Amber Stewart (’12), Hendersonville, was appointed director of facilities maintenance for the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority.

Brittany Taylor (’12), Murfreesboro, a Rockvale Middle School teacher, is the most recent winner of the Tennessee Council for the Social Studies Teacher of the Year award.

Haley Adams (’15), Smyrna, joined the United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties as director of marketing and communications. Adams previously served as marketing coordinator for Murfreesboro Medical Clinic and director of fund development for the Tennessee Breast Cancer Coalition.

Valon Brown (’19), Nashville, joined U.S. Sen. Bill Hagerty’s staff as a constituent services representative in the Nashville office after previously working for Calvert Street Group and the Tennessee Republican Party.

2020s Luke Herring (’21), Franklin, joined Dowdle Construction Group as superintendent.

Herring brings more than 17 years of construction experience to the job, including as co-owner of Natural Design LLC, specializing in custom building.

Raeven Brooks and Tyler Hallstedt Two MTSU College of Education graduates were recently named Milken Educator Award winners— dubbed the “Oscars of Teaching”—by Teacher Magazine. Tyler Hallstedt (’13), an eighth-grade teacher at Mount Juliet Middle School, and Raeven Brooks (’15), a second-grade teacher at Black Fox Elementary in Murfreesboro, each earned the prestigious award and $25,000 from the Milken Family Foundation.

Eliezer “Eli” Ponce Eliezer “Eli” Ponce (‘09) was once again in 2021 named to the Billboard Latin Power players list, highlighting the executives behind Latin music’s explosive move into the pop music mainstream. Director of A&R for BMG Music Publishing, overseeing the Latin music genre for the company, Ponce celebrated nine platinum and two gold singles by writers on BMG’s roster in 2021, plus multiplatinum certification of the single “Yo Ya No Vuelvo Contigo,” by Lenin Ramirez (featuring Grupo Firme).

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IN MEMORIAM

1930s Rachel Clark Scott (’37) Mary Frances Brown Swift (’39)

1940s Alice Boyd (’49) Jean Patton Johnson Nisbet (’47) Mary Skelton Tolbert (’47) Frank E. Willard (’41)

1950s Joyce Page Adams (’54) Marjorie Thompson Bates (’55, ’74) James Burton (’54, ’58) Marjorie Grayson Canady (’57) Ruth Calfee Cartwright (’53) Gladys Bulla Cothran (’55) Kenneth Crowell (’58) Ben Earthman (’56) Thomas Harvey (’52) Sam T. Haun (’51) Ernestine Hawkins (’55) David Macon (’57) Fred D. Mathis (’58) Troy Maxcy Jr. (’57) Linda “Kay” Williamson McArthur (’59) Bruce McDonald (’58) Elizabeth “Anne” Beesley Palmer (’51) Betty Hale Price (’54, ’82) John “Wayne” Robertson (’51, ’55) Henry Sessoms Sr. (’58) Edward “Bully” Sullivan (’50, ’60) Arch “Thomas” Swain (’56) Dorothy McClaran Swain (’58) Wyatt “Nowlin” Taylor (’54) Martha Harrison Teenor (’56) Adrian Todd (’53) Glen Wakefield (’53) Dorothy “Dot” Key Woodard (’56) Joe Youree (’52)

1960s Robert “Bob” Andrews (’69) Joseph Bartha (’60, ’61) Earl C. Bass (’65) William “Bill” Bass (’64)

60 MTSU Magazine

David E. Brandon (’67) Berry K. Brent (’69, ’75) Robert Brim (’63, ’73) Thomas Bruer (’67) Lilah Harris Clack (’68) William “Bill” Clardy (’67, ’71) Kay Beard Clark (’69) Susan Clark (’65) Lee Clayborne (’64, ’66) James “Jim” Cline (’63) Jerry Cooper (’64) Eloise Joyner Brantley Cunningham (’65) William “Paul” Dailey Jr. (’62) Donald Darden (’67) James David (’69) Richard S. “Dick” Davis Jr. (’68) Dean “Coach” Fisher (’61, ’62) William “Bill” Flanders (’68) Charlyne Foster (’62) Homer Garr Sr. (’69) Joseph Garrett (’63) Thomas Gooden Jr. (’67, ’70) Barry Greever (‘68) Aubrey “Joe” Hamilton (’62) James Henry (’67) Carolyn Sharp Hicks (’60) Robert Johnson (’67) Margaret Jackson Jordan (’67) Charles Kardok (’61) Linda Gilmore Kinard (’65) William “Bill” Kirkpatrick Sr. (’67) Phillip Lamberth (’67) James “Jim” Leinart (’67) Delmer Lowe (’69) Barbara Luff Martin (’61, ’65) Homer Martin (’60, ’68) Marcia Maxson (’62, ’66) Benjamin McClure (’62) Jay Mick (’60) Michael K. Milholland (’65, ’67) Daniel L. Mosely (’68, ’72) Gary Newport (’69) David Payne (’66) Howard “Chuck” Paysinger (’60, ’64) James Pemberton (’65) Clifton Piner (’61) David Pitts (’60) Marion E. Pope (’67, ’75) Charles Rice (’63)

Harold Schrader (’61) Francis “Dale” Shaver (’68) Ronald Tennant (’69) Randall H. Tidwell (’66) William “Bill” Tucker (’60) Harold Varden (’66) Leon “Scott” Ward Jr. (’63) Marilyn “Mac” McKillop Wells (’66) Aldene Patterson Williams (’67, ’83) Richard “Dick” Young Jr. (’68)

1970s Janet Mathis Adams (’77) Donald Ball (’70) Sue Ragland Barren (’70, ’75) Peter Bernhart (’78) Larry Bilbrough (’71) Pamela Arnold Bonson (’72) Henry “Randy” Boswell Jr. (’72) Dwight “Pat” Bradley (’72) James “Jim” Brooks (’71) Phillip Brown (’78, ’89) Robert Buchanan Sr. (’72) Dixie Burns (’73) Leanne Busby (’73) Donald Denton (’78) Maie Short Edwards (’74) Diane Benson Fink (’76) Judi Cochran Garner (’76) Ellen Thornburg Geeslin (’74) Charles Goad (’77) Charles “Greg “Gregory (’73, ’74) Rickland “Rick” Hatfield (’79) Betty Robinson Hawkins (’75, ’81) Kenneth Hinson (’72) Jerry Horn (’73) William “Ron” Hosse (’72, ’74) Mary Tucker Howell (’73) Eddie D. Jernigan (’78) Charles Johnson (’72) Jerden E. Johnson (’76) Michael “Mick” Jones (’75) Grant Kelley Jr. (’72) Marvin W. Kohler Sr. (’71) Bethany Wright Kroemer (’79) Samuel Ledford Sr. (’73, ’76) Paul E. Lemay (’74) Nelda Draughon Lunn (’74)

Howard D. Wall Local developer and philanthropist Howard D. Wall (’63), 80, a Distinguished Alumni and member of the Honors College Board of Visitors, died Dec. 23, 2021.

Wall’s philanthropy and service to MTSU over the course of his lifetime was vast, including his commitment of $100,000 toward the completion of the baseball program’s Reese Smith Jr. Field and stadium. A section of the facility’s wall behind center field reads “The Howard and Sally Wall” in a slightly tongue-in-cheek manner that captures Wall’s famous sense of humor while honoring the family’s gift.

William Mathias (’75) Richard Matthews (’79) Michael McCormack (’79) Faye Wall McKee (’77) Brenda McKinney (’75) Khalil Ziady Moore (’75) Marvin M. Nichols (’73) Robert Porter (’73) David “’Andy” Reed (’72) Anna Curran Reppermund (’77) Mary Garrett Reynolds (’76) Raymond Rich (’74) Michael Seals (’78) Kathy Sutton Shanks (’76) Sheena Lankford Shepard (’77) Johnny F. Smith Jr. (’74) Robert Taylor (’73) Judith Pickerhill Thompson (’76) Sharlene Rogan Waters (’78) Karen Fields White (’75) Stephen Williams (’70) Benjamin Womack (’73) Paul Wright (’74)

1980s Charles T. Ackerman (’83) Timothy Buckley (’81) Elizabeth Clark (’86) William “Bill” Coombs (’85) Miles Cotham (’87) Larry Crim (’83) Curtis Joel Davenport (’84) Douglas Deyong (’88) Jania Gonzales Doud (’81) Ronald Easter Jr. (’85) Elizabeth Waller Fortenberry (’85) James “Brian” Freeland (’86)

Miles J. Tate Miles J. Tate (’84), who started Murfreesboro’s “Middle Half” race 16 years ago with his wife and daughter, died April 4 at age 62. A native of McMinnville, he met his wife Melinda (’84) at MTSU, and they had two children, Nicholas and Natalie (’05). Tate and other race board of directors created the Murfreesboro HalfMarathon Scholarship, which supports MTSU students in the “Middle Half” of their educations to help “finish the race.” The Melinda and Miles Tate Scholarship also benefits MTSU students who are married and have a child while in school.

Ricky Gordan (’84) Charlotte Glascoe Hankins (’84) Lounita Cook Howard (’85) Edwina Jacobs (’82) Violet Jones-Capps (’80) Joan Katz (’82) E.J. Kreis III (’87, ’89) Frances Alsup Lawson (’88, ’90) Angela Pettross Martin (’87) Regenia Murdock (’80) Jeffrey Myers (’89) Cynthia Pennington (’85) Mary Rudd Rackard (’82) Elizabeth Coulter Royalty (’85, ’92) Michael Scales Sr. (’82) Thomas “Jeff” Smedley (’86) Ronald Turner (’88) Brenda Gilliam Wells (’84) Connie Hartman Woosley (’83) Josephine McKee Wright (’83)

1990s Barry Cramer (’90) Sarah Goad (’98) Mark Gore (’93) Martha Hood (’96) Linda Knowles (’93, ’95) Tracie Olive Moore (’98) Courtney Parsons (’95) Robert Prestininzi (’94) William Rogers (’99) Charles “Rankine” Roth (’93) Richard “Keith” Sanders (’92) Lamar “Brandon” Sentell (’97) Timothy Waters (’94) Robert “Dallus” Whitfield (’92) Linda Hogan Wilson (’90)

2000s Susan Boyd Beasley (’00) Angelic “Lin” Feagans Bowman (’00, ’16) Derek Carter (’04) Rebecca Belcher-Rankin (’00) Mark Chism (’07, ’11) Gregory Garrett (’06, ’13) Constance Schneider Gowder (’02) Rachel Hardaway (’03) Tedra Herrington (’07) April Hoare (’02) Jana Houston (’01, ’08) Terrie Escoe Hurtt (’01) Latoria Alexander McKenzie (’04) Christian Roseberry (’09) William “Bill” Schenck (’09, ’16) Kevin Stolinsky (’04) Michael Vonner (’00) Matthew Wallace (’08)

2010s Cody Bieber (’14) Velecia Covington (’18) James “Hutch” Crowley (’10) Michael Dye Jr. (’11) Sean Hudson (’12) Brandon Johnson (’12) Timothy Kastner (’10) Kelby Kraft (’14) Allison Mathers (’19) Leslie Myers (’15) Rashad Wilson (’14)

Summer 2022 61

BABY R AIDERS

01 Willow Reese Trulick born April 19, 2021 to Anthony (’12) and Brianna Patton Trulick (’15) of Manchester

02 Eleanor Ramsey Holt 01

02

born June 24, 2021 to Andrew and Abigail Gates Holt (’08) of Signal Mountain

03 Jianna Jarrei Joseph born June 25, 2021 to Dallas Joseph (’09) and Dornedria Cross Joseph (’11) of Antioch

04 Briley Lyn Edwards 03

04

born July 9, 2021 to Chad (’10) and Hannah Edwards of Wadesville, Indiana

05 Ava Kay Burton born Aug. 23, 2021 to Andy (’13) and Kim Bierman Burton (’13) of Smyrna

06 Sundaii LaRae Wallace born Sept. 7, 2021

05

06

to Xavier Wallace and Kristyona Lashae Huggins (’20) of Murfreesboro

07 Ryman Alexander Davis born Oct. 21, 2021

to Keaton (’16) and Ashley Sams Davis (’16) of Murfreesboro

08 Charles “Charlie” Hamilton Cornett born Oct. 26, 2021

07

08

to Kyle (’05, ’16) and Rachel Peay Cornett (’06, ’09, ’14) of Murfreesboro

09 Bristol Cruize Higgs born Dec. 14, 2021 to Blake (’09) and Regan Vaughn Higgs (’08) of Lascassas

10 Kate Mae Storey born Dec. 28, 2021

09

10

to Ashton (’15, ’16) and Hillary Keel Storey (’15, ’17) of Murfreesboro

11 Carter James Cline born Feb. 6, 2022 to Kyler Cline (’13) and Stephanie (Patterson) Cline (’13, ’20) of Murfreesboro

12 Margot Elizabeth Stephens born Feb. 16, 2022

11

62 MTSU Magazine

12

to Ryan (’14) and Kayla Croy Stephens (’19) of Murfreesboro

L AST WORD

The Next 50 Years . . .

Jack Harlow

Looking at an encore performance for Murphy Center On April 27, Murphy Center was the site of a concert by Jack Harlow, who at the time of his appearance had a No. 1 hit song and was on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine. It’s clear evidence that Murphy Center’s glory days are not all in the past.

MTSU magazine recently interviewed Scott Ralston, a principal and senior project manager with HOK, a stalwart in sports facility architecture and arena reuse.

(HOK is a partner on MTSU’s Build Blue athletics campaign.) Here are some of Ralston’s thoughts on the 11,520-seat Murphy Center and its potential: Murphy Center's size is “in the sweet spot, actually.”

Consider the similar-size Forum in Inglewood, California, where artists like Billie Eilish, Pearl Jam, the Black Keys, and Chris Stapleton recently performed. “Crowds of 10,000 or 12,000 people—that’s the target audience for most artists.”

Only a few North American tour stops draw 20,000 and up— for artists like Justin Timberlake and Adele.

Artists and managers base decisions on more than just the arena. They also strongly consider whether a venue is near a big airport, has enough nearby hotel capacity for fans from a 200-mile radius, “and, selfishly, the ease with which they can load in and out.” Murphy Center checks every box. Venues at

bigger universities do not. In addition to ample regional hotel space, the University’s Build Blue campaign includes strategic plans for a new hotel just off-campus. Last, the Nashville area is rich in event and stage production expertise, and MTSU’s programs in audio and event production offer an opportunity for Murphy Center to serve as an on-campus laboratory for students.

“It’s a high-risk business to be in show business.” Venues “get little to none of the ticket revenue,” primarily collecting parking and concession revenue. Advantage MTSU, given that the University can emphasize potential benefits to MTSU, students, and the community over profit margins.

Partnering with a third party experienced in booking and negotiating with artists is an option. But a university in a community like Murfreesboro likely needs someone who works well with MTSU and community interests to pick the “right” kind of shows. “You have to distinguish yourself. . . .

You really have to know what the students and community want.” MTSU could focus on a dozen events a year that would culturally advance the University and also have community appeal. Besides concerts, that could mean family events or holiday shows. Such programming could even influence young people’s decisions to eventually attend MTSU. A true community treasure—past, present, and future— Murphy Center clearly has more stories to tell in the decades ahead. MTSU Summer 2022 63

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