PRIDE Spring 2012 by Texas A&M University-Commerce

pride The Alumni Magazine of Texas A&M University-Commerce Volume 13

Spring 2012

From the President

f the many images of Professor Mayo that I’ve seen, I think I like this one the best. You can see that he had a broad view of what it meant to be a college president. There he is, standing behind the plow with his coat off and reins draped across his shoulders, a look of earnest determination on his face.

Social Sciences Building and Hall of Languages, but these are now complemented by such incredibly advanced and sophisticated facilities as the new Music Building, Science Building, and Rayburn Student Center – all tied together by attractive walkways, green spaces, and landscaping.

I can imagine him wondering how in the world he could ever build the college he dreamed of – the one where, as he describes it, “no industrious, ambitious youth shall be denied an education if I can prevent it.”

Buildings by themselves, of course, don’t make a university great. They do, however, symbolize the commitment that generations of faculty, staff, students, and alumni have made to constantly improving an institution that is founded on a vision of excellence and opportunity, and sustained by what Professor Mayo aptly called “ceaseless industry.”

I admire everything I know about the man – his grit, his determination, and most of all, his passion for making education available to those he knew would put it to good use. I wonder what he’d think today if he were to set foot on campus. He was certainly a man of strong and clear purpose. I can imagine him walking over to the piece of ground shown in the photo and saying, “That’s where we decided to build the next building; it started right there.” Since arriving as president almost four years ago, I’ve been fortunate to be able to carry on with the work of campus transformation that began with Professor Mayo’s vision in 1889. That work accelerated after we joined The Texas A&M University System in 1996. Since then, our campus has evolved from one that was criss-crossed by city streets and lined by a few grand but technologically challenged old buildings, to one that is best described as a dazzling admixture of the old and new. Our heritage is still very much in evidence in such buildings as the stately Ferguson

If you haven’t been back on campus in a while, consider this your personal invitation. We hope this issue of PRIDE will not only give you a brief visual tour of what the campus looks like and enough of a glimpse to entice you back, but that it will showcase how our constantly evolving campus truly enriches the lives of our students. As beautiful as the campus is, the real beauty of our university still lies in the vision of the future that Professor Mayo saw in this plot of ground 123 years ago. I suspect he’d be deeply humbled, as am I, by your loyalty and support. Your contributions have not just helped build buildings – they’ve touched lives. Professor Mayo’s dream, and our mission, is nothing less than to change the world through education. We’re doing it one student at a time.

Dr. Dan R. Jones President

in this issue

features Continuing the Legacy......................................4 Expanding Opportunities through Research.....8 Building on their Passion.............................10 A Place of Gathering...................................12 The Perfect Tone........................................14 Home Away from Home..............................16 Personalizing the Process...........................18 Room to Grow.............................................22 Creating Wellness.......................................26 Sowing Seeds of Success............................28

departments Alumni Events................................................32 Students in Action......................................... 34 Noteworthy....................................................36 Class Notes................................................... 44

on the cover

Giving Back....................................................47

The “Teacher,” a bronze statue of a mother lioness, leading and teaching her cubs, memorializes the dream of Rachel Rollings to become a teacher. Rachel, age 22, and her friend Britney Lipsey, age 20, were killed as a result of an automobile accident August 6, 2006. The statue is part of Rachel’s Garden, located just south of the Field House, and was sculpted by Susan G. Raymond of Boulder, Colo. The memorial design was done by Krause Landscape in Amarillo, Texas. Photo by Paul Bryan.

Pride is published two times a year by the Texas A&M UniversityCommerce alumni relations department. Non-profit postage paid at Addison, Texas. Pride is distributed without charge to alumni, faculty, staff, and friends of Texas A&M University-Commerce.

Editor in chief.......................... Randy Jolly

Administrative assistant... Jennifer Bryan

Editor.............................. Ashley Johnson

Writers.............................. Syndi Walker ....................................... Sara De La Rosa ................................Savannah Christian

Assistant editor................. Kim Williams Art director............................. Sean Barnes Graphic designer........................ Gary Luke Photographers.......................... Paul Bryan ........................................... Jason Flowers ................................................Jared Horn

Alumni Relations Director...............................Derryle Peace Assistant director.................. Jane Martyn PR & events planner............. Rachel Evans

Address changes, inquiries and contributions of information may be made to alumni relations at 903.886.5765, via e-mail to Alumni.Relations@tamuc.edu or to Texas A&M UniversityCommerce, Alumni Relations, P.O. Box 3011 Commerce, TX 75429.

Transforming

Lives

In 1946, the Tejas Club

was formed by 16 World War II veterans and three students. The club quickly developed as a positive influence on campus and shaped the lives, attitudes and the way the members viewed friendship. The Tejas Club later became Sigma Phi Epsilon. The Hoss & Boss Reunions have rekindled the members’ bond of friendship. In 2003, at the suggestion of Frank Turner, the men chose to establish an endowed scholarship in memory of the deceased Tejas Club-Sig Ep members. Individual donors and a Blacklands Train Excursion contributed funds to reach the initial $10,000 endowment. Today, thanks to the generosity of so many Tejas and Sig Ep brothers and their families, what began as a $10,000 endowment now boasts more than $300,000. Tejas Club members Jace Carrington, John Moss, Dick Rothwell and Frank Turner recently enjoyed the privilege of seeing the result of their benevolence through the life of scholarship recipient Rebecca Ann Steward. “My husband lost his job a year and a half ago and it drastically changed our financial situation,” Rebecca said. “Without the Tejas Club-Sig Ep scholarship it would have been very difficult to finish my education.”

Pride The Alumni Magazine Spring 2012

For more information on how you can support students like Rebecca through an endowed scholarship, contact Alicia Wittkopf, director of advancement services, at Alicia.Wittkopf@tamuc.edu or (903) 468-3020. front row (l–r): Wayne Defebaugh, president/general manager of Blacklands Railroad, John Moss, Jace Carrington back row (l–r): Dick Rothwell, Rebecca Ann Steward, Frank Turner Not pictured: scholarship recipients Tawney King and Karissa Mae Blasquez 3 Spring Pride 2012 Texas The Alumni Magazine Spring A&M University–Commerce 2012 3

science building page 6

hall of languages page 10

Ferguson Social Sciences Building page 12

music building page 14

Rayburn Student Center page 16

Student Access & Success Center page 18

residence halls page 22

Morris Recreation Center page 26

university farm page 28

Pride The Alumni Magazine Spring 2012

continuing The Legacy by Kim Williams

he buildings on the campus of Texas A&M University-Commerce by themselves are just structures. While significant time, effort and financial contributions have gone into making them beautiful from the outside, it is what happens inside the structures that make the university great.

At a glance the commitment, investment and importance that the university community and alumni place in creating an atmosphere specifically geared to students’ success can be seen Campus tour photography throughout the campus. by Paul Bryan, Making a positive impact Jason Flowers on student lives, however, & Jared Horn is what continues the proud legacy that started with Professor Mayo’s efforts in 1889. This spring issue of Pride provides a tour of some of the campus’ main buildings and university programs in an effort to relate the exciting advancements happening on campus. Each page reveals how the buildings not only provide a learning space for students, but how they directly impact student lives. The financial support from donors like you complements the efforts of our faculty and staff in providing a quality education for all A&M-Commerce students. At A&M-Commerce, the buildings may create the first impression, but it is the legacy of caring and personal involvement in the lives of students that lasts forever.

Spring 2012 Texas A&M University–Commerce

Academics science building 6

On the outside, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a $29 million science building; on the inside, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a priceless learning and research facility.

Pride The Alumni Magazine Spring 2012

Science Building The 110,000 sq.-foot Science Building is a three-story facility featuring more than 35 laboratories ideal for undergraduate, graduate and faculty research in chemistry, biology and physics. The state-of-the-art planetarium brings the Commerce night sky to life on a 40-foot dome, while the Digistar 3 all-digital projection system provides the audience with sights and sounds beyond imagination.

Spring 2012 Texas A&M Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Commerce

research

expanding opportunities through

orld-class research and innovation are hallmarks of a great university. For Dr. Larry Lemanski, provost and vice president for academic affairs, they are also the gold standard of academic excellence at Texas A&M University-Commerce.

After reorganizing the university into four efficient colleges and more than doubling research funding during the last few years, Lemanski believes the university is poised to increase its research efforts, with additional funding available for both graduate and undergraduate research projects. “A&M-Commerce has recently increased its research funding from $4 million to over $7 million; we expect to reach $10 million in the near future,” Lemanski said. “This additional funding will not only result in increased research publications, 8

by Sara De La Rosa

it will allow the university to attract more graduate students, post-doctoral fellows and new faculty members with an interest in research.” Paving the way for student research opportunities in every department is at the heart of Lemanski’s efforts. By providing every student with the opportunity to expand their learning through research, they will graduate better prepared for success in whichever field they choose, from science and music to art and education. “I want our students to excel and become nationally competitive, and I can see that happening now,” Lemanski said. “When I saw our music students perform at Carnegie Hall there was a certain pride in being affiliated with a university that can produce such outstanding young people.”

Pride The Alumni Magazine Spring 2012

For Lemanski, instilling a passion for research in students begins with walking them through the research process from start to finish, then allowing them to take the lead and pursue their own projects. He currently mentors three students who are completing research for their undergraduate honors theses in addition to performing his own research. “When I am not working with students, I do some personal research as well,” Lemanski said. “Although my time is limited, I do go over to the lab once in a while on the weekends and Friday afternoons. Most of the work, however, is done by the students.” One of the university’s most significant research-related accomplishments to date is the recent discovery of a ribonucleic acid that can promote the differentiation of non-cardiac cells, such as skin cells, into cardiac cells. While the initial discovery was made in the RNA of an axolotl salamander, student researchers have discovered a similar substance in human tissue. “We believe this discovery could have a significant impact in the repair of diseased human cardiac tissue,” Lemanski said. “We found this RNA sequence through genetic cloning and molecular biology. This development came about much quicker than I expected. It’s what makes research exciting.” Now Lemanski is hoping to patent their findings, a process that can be much more difficult than the research process itself.

McDowell Administration (BA) Building The BA building is home to the College of Business and Entrepreneurship, as well as the offices of the president, business administration, advancement, the Foundation, academic affairs, and information technology. The first floor also includes human resources and payroll, university cashiers, the graduate school, and technology services.

James Gee Library The James G. Gee Library boasts more than 1 million cataloged items, a computer lab, study lounges, and a café on the first floor. The fourth floor university archives contain one-of-a-kind works and relics including the music collection donated by Louise Tobin and the Jeana Yeager collection of artifacts from her non-stop flight around the world.

“Securing a patent requires meeting certain criteria, particularly to obtain a biomedical patent in the medical field,” Lemanski said. “Patenting a substance is not like patenting a new scalpel or technique. This is a biological substance with a unique function; it’s a long process, but it’s worth the effort.” Going forward, Lemanski hopes to help every student with an interest in research find their niche, and excel in their chosen field. “As the university grows, we want to continue to improve not only as an outstanding teaching and academic university, but also an outstanding research, scholarly and creative university,” Lemanski said. “Research developments like finding a way to repair diseased heart tissue, and those discovered by our students every day in the lab, will help bring that goal to life.”

Performing Arts Center Situated on the shores of Gee Lake, the Performing Arts Center houses the department of mass media, communication and theatre. Here, students have access to two theatres, and a student-run television station. The University Playhouse offers students the opportunity to perform on-stage year round.

Spring 2012 Texas A&M University–Commerce

Academics hall of languages Hall of Languages The Hall of Languages is home to the literature and languages department, with programs in English, Spanish, French, and philosophy. The first floor offers students a bevy of academic resources including the Foreign Language Center, Communications Skills Center, the Writing Center, and the English Language Institute.

Pride The Alumni Magazine Spring 2012

passion

building on their

by Kim Williams

n the midst of a down-trodden economy and high unemployment, the A&M-Commerce English department has accomplished an amazing feat: a 100 percent job placement rate for its doctoral students after graduation. Thanks to the leadership of Dr. Donna DunbarOdom and the resources available in the Hall of Languages, the program now attracts students from throughout the country.

“I look for that spark in students, and build on their passion.”

“We previously used a traditional approach for our doctoral students, but I wanted to take a practical approach in helping our students,” Dunbar-Odom said. “Instead of requiring two semesters of colloquium teaching, we now only require one semester with a three credit hour class called ‘Professing English’ where we actually teach the students how to get a job teaching.”

Dr. Donna Dunbar-Odom Dr. Donna Dunbar-Odom and doctoral student Melissa Knous.

Dunbar-Odom believes that it is the faculty’s approach in general that creates the success of the doctoral program.

“We care about our students, so we make sure they have a true interest in teaching before we send them out into the world,” Dunbar-Odom said. “I look for that spark in students, and build on their passion.” Literature and languages students are mentored from the first day they begin the program thanks to a writing lab that hones their creative interests and develops their writing skills. Many students like Sean George acquire the passion Dunbar-Odom referred to as they progress through the program. George believes the emphasis on the teaching experience, balanced with a focus on producing scholarly material relevant to the field of English literature and language studies, contributed to his success after graduation. Today, thanks to George’s experience in the A&M-Commerce doctoral program, he now enjoys a tenure-track position as an assistant professor of English at Dixie State College, a regional college in St. George, Utah.

Spring 2012 Texas A&M University–Commerce

gathering

a place of

by Kim Williams

he Ferguson Social Sciences building has a recent addition, a veteran’s lounge for A&M-Commerce veteran students, alumni and their dependents to gather and support each other in their academic endeavors.

The lounge provides a quiet place for veterans to study, take breaks between classes, hold student veterans association meetings, support group meetings and mentor one another. Sergeant Samantha Lamping (U.S. Army, retired) knows firsthand how the lounge can help veterans transition back into civilian society and pursue college and career goals. “I served in the United States Army for 10 years specializing in human resources. During a one-year deployment to Afghanistan, I decided it was time to focus more on my family,” Samantha said. “After deployment, I discharged from the service, and moved to Texas. My entire tenure, with the exception of my deployment and training assignments, was spent at Fort Carson, Colo. Moving to Texas in order to put down new roots was an emotional challenge but one that has been rewarding. Adjusting to civilian life was difficult at first, but I have since adapted and am comfortable now in my new lifestyle.

“The Veteran’s Affairs office at Texas A&M University-Commerce was extremely helpful in making me feel at home.”

Samantha Lamping Samantha Lamping

Sgt. U.S. Army

I enrolled in the Texas A&M UniversityCommerce bachelor’s degree program for human resource management. I chose A&MCommerce because of the location and the transferability of my previously attained college credits. It is also a small campus and easy to navigate. The Veteran’s Affairs office at Texas A&M University-Commerce was extremely helpful in making me feel at home from the moment I contacted them while in Afghanistan in 2010, to the moment I stepped foot on campus for orientation seven months later. I was impressed with the Veteran’s Vigil that is held every year on Veterans Day, and was proud to participate in that event this past November. Throughout the three semesters I’ve been at A&M-Commerce, everyone has been helpful, and I appreciate the information they provide and the central location to answer questions that a veteran would have. Not only do they provide answers to benefit questions; they are also helpful when I need information about other departments on campus. I appreciate the veteran’s lounge because it’s where veteran students can network with other veterans and have an area to study and hang out while on campus. I will use this room extensively during my career as a student.” 12

Pride The Alumni Magazine Spring 2012

Jessica Gossett

Academics

Veterans & Military Services Specialist

Ferguson Social Sciences Building

“The veteran’s lounge offers material to educate students about various benefits provided by the VA as well as the services located across campus that they may not be aware of. Our main goal is to provide an environment for veterans and their dependents that nurtures their success and provides them with a support group of their peers.”

Ferguson Social Sciences Building Three departments reside in the Ferguson Social Sciences Building: history, sociology and criminal justice, and political science. In addition, the Joe B. Hinton Office of International Studies is located in room 220, and provides information, assistance and scholarships for our international studies programs.

Spring 2012 Texas A&M University–Commerce

Academics music building

Music Building The Music Building features two performance venues, labs, classrooms, studios, and practice rooms, each carefully constructed to make the building one of the most efficient in the nation. High ceilings, wide hallways and slanted walls allow musicians to easily navigate through practice rooms and performance areas. Sunlight is maximized with multiple windows and skylights to give students a sense of openness. The building also has direct access to the football field, paving the way for easy entrances and exits for the marching band at halftime.

tone

the perfect

by Savannah Christian

exas A&M University-Commerce recently opened one of its newest additions, the $29 million music building. As the premier performance hall in Northeast Texas, the music building provides music students with ample opportunities to perfect their talent thanks to the 600-seat concert hall, a 75-seat

Alex Castro chose to attend A&M-Commerce because of the positive impression he received from the music program. He was raised in Commerce and has several alumni in his family, but his decision to attend the university wasn’t confirmed until his lessons with professor Jimmy Clark began. Castro has studied in both the old and new music buildings and said the difference is immeasurable. “The new music building has definitely improved the overall atmosphere of the campus,” Alex said. “I remember being a freshman and helping move equipment to Ferguson Social Sciences for concerts. Now, with all of the facilities in one building, setting up for concerts takes no time at all. It is also great to be in a facility that is so well maintained – the janitorial staff does an incredible job.”

Alex Castro

recital hall, five rehearsal halls, various classrooms, labs, studios and practice rooms. Phillip Clements, director of bands and instrumental activities, has already witnessed great improvements within the music department thanks to the new facility. He’s confident the building will continue to improve the university’s ability to draw students with superior music skills and a drive to excel. “This building has made an immediate impact on our department,” Clements said. “Our facilities now match the quality of our faculty and students. It’s made A&M-Commerce one of the leading centers for music education in the Southwest.” Prospective students looking for skilled ensembles, outstanding faculty and a creative environment will feel at home in the new music building thanks to its ideal atmosphere for rehearsal, classroom study, individual practice and concert performances.

Castro’s remarkable trombone skills are a testament to the quality staff and educational opportunities afforded him at A&MCommerce. During the band’s recent trip to New York City to play at Carnegie Hall, Castro’s talent landed him a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet Jim Markey, his personal hero and inspiration. The chance meeting was spurred by Castro’s realization that Markey taught bass trombone at Juilliard. On a whim, Castro contacted Markey and was granted an appointment with him during the trip. As if performing at Carnegie Hall wasn’t memorable enough, Castro capped off the trip with a lesson from Markey, and got a glimpse of the successful future he has been primed for at A&M-Commerce. “[Jim Markey] is definitely someone I would like to study with once I graduate from the university,” Alex said. “Mr. Clark and the Texas A&M University-Commerce music department have prepared me to study at a major conservatory such as Juilliard and with a professor of that caliber.” Castro’s experience is one of many exciting stories being lived out by students devoted to music at A&M-Commerce. The perfect tone is being set by a cadre of world class music educators passing on their knowledge to an eager and talented group of students in a building that was designed for teaching excellence, the blossoming of talent and the thrill of performance.

Spring 2012 Texas A&M University–Commerce

home away from

home

by Savannah Christian According to Fadhl Al-Matari, international student and graduate assistant from Yemen, it is essential that A&M-Commerce maintain a common ground for students to grow, learn and flourish.

he Rayburn Student Center became an instant landmark on the Texas A&M University-Commerce campus in January of 2009, and from the beginning, met its designed purpose for being the hub of student activity and the crossroads for university wide involvement. The building recently celebrated its third birthday and continues to add a vibrancy to campus life that draws students, faculty, staff, and alumni together.

“The student center provides a comfortable atmosphere for students as they try to familiarize themselves with their new lives on campus,” Fadhl said.

“Texas A&M University-Commerce has experienced phenomenal growth over the years,” said Connie Mears, associate director of operations and special events. “I am so proud to be an employee of the university and see first-hand the major changes we have gone through.”

“International students do not know anyone in Commerce, in Texas or even the United States, so they go to a place where people gather, the student center,” he said. “The student center makes [the transition] easier because it helps alleviate loneliness many students initially feel.”

According to Wendy Morgan, director of the Rayburn Student Center, the construction and transition into the new building from the antiquated Memorial Student Center was simply a solution for a better way to serve the rapidly growing campus population. “The student center was designed to accommodate and service the needs of an expanding campus and an ever-increasing number of students,” Wendy said. “The new building provides amenities that the Memorial Student Center was not capable of in terms of technology, retail services and a vibrant student life. The new center is state-of-the-art and remains student focused.” The building, founded upon the belief that students need a place to go where they can meet up, escape from the rigors of the classroom and easily access services, has become the center of activity on campus truly bringing together students, faculty and staff alike. “We are the focal point of campus,” Connie said. “It is a place where students can be students and have fun. Our RSC staff members are amazing because they are so gifted and truly love working with and encouraging students develop full and active lives.”

Rayburn Student Center The student center is home to a variety of campus events and activities that enhance the college experience. Students can grab a cup of coffee on their way to class, or enjoy a meal with friends at the university cafeteria. In The Club, students have the option to play games, listen to music or just hang out and study. Across the hall, the university bookstore boasts a plethora of Lion souvenirs, textbooks and last-minute items for class.

The RSC staff has been so successful in creating a home-awayfrom-home environment that the facility has become one of the major draws in recruiting new students to campus. As a result, enrollment is up and plans are being made to expand the RSC to accommodate even more students and provide a wider range of services.

With its contemporary architecture and technology, the RSC, provides an enjoyable atmosphere with endless possibilities, and amenities that promote a vital campus life.

“We are very excited about the upcoming expansion,” Wendy said. “The first floor expansion will allow us to double our seating capacity [in the dining hall], providing approximately 700 seats. Upstairs, we will be able to nearly double the amount of meeting spaces that we currently have as well as provide for some additional growth of student services.”

“The new student center is a lot more welcoming,” said Joel Jopson, graduate assistant for The Club in the RSC. “There are many lounges and continuous music. The high ceilings and big rooms make it very inviting, [whereas] in the old student center, everything seemed to be crammed together and very small.”

As A&M-Commerce continues to experience exponential growth, the Rayburn Student Center will grow as well in its ability to serve students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the community, providing a place to meet and build relationships that will last a lifetime.

Pride The Alumni Magazine Spring 2012

student life Rayburn Student Center Spring 2012 Texas A&M Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Commerce

student life Student Access & Success Center

“The staff shows that they care very much about their students. Everyone in the building is very helpful to me, and encourage me to come by whenever I need help or have any questions about anything.”

Lorenzo Perez “I was embraced and made comfortable by the staff at One Stop Shop. If I have a concern, 9 times out of 10, it can be handled at the One Stop Shop. In the event that the workers in the OSS aren’t able to assist you, they are willing to point you in the right direction so that you can be properly served.”

Harold Brown

sophomore, psychology major

freshman, construction engineering major

“The One Stop Shop is a valuable place for anybody who is a part of A&M-Commerce because it houses multiple services that can help students throughout their college life. Whether it’s meeting with your success coach to register for classes or meeting with career development to get help with your resume, the One Stop Shop has it all.”

Jabari Thompson

freshman, computer science and math major

Student Access & Success Center The Student Access and Success Center was created to ease the enrollment process for students. Now, students can come to a central location to have all of their admissions, financial aid and advising needs met. Affectionately named “One-Stop,” the building is also home to University College, and knowledgeable, friendly success coaches who are available to guide students towards graduation.

process personalizing the

by Savannah Christian

“The One Stop Shop helped me get everything I needed to start out this semesteR. I was shown around campus, got my parking permit, signed up for classes, and received credit for more of my classes that transferred from Brigham Young University - Idaho.”

Ariel Kuntz

graduate student and success coach

he Texas A&M University-Commerce campus is graced with many unique buildings that foster and promote higher education, however, the most mesmerizing building based on pure energy is the new Student Access and Success Center, affectionately nicknamed “One Stop Shop.” Home to many student-centered services such as financial aid and scholarships, student accounts and admissions, the all-inclusive One Stop Shop was created to demystify the complexities of applying to college, and provide students and parents with the information they need.

According to Dr. Mary Hendrix, vice president for student access and success, when the old print shop building became available, the university was eager to create a service hub to help students and make their process of enrollment easier. continued on next page

Spring 2012 Texas A&M University–Commerce

are on track for graduation. In addition, DegreeWorks will allow future and current students to see if their transfer courses are valid, and it provides a special calculator to review the impact of grades on their GPA.”

“For as long as I have been at this university, every student focus group we held and every strategic enrollment committee that submitted recommendations expressed the need to address the ‘run around’ that students experienced in trying to get into school,” she said. “When the decision was made to close the print shop, we had a facility that would allow us to house all critical services in one facility. Now, the greatest service we provide is the ability to serve students, regardless of their issues, quickly, efficiently, and with personal care.”

Programs like DegreeWorks will allow the faculty and staff at the One Stop Shop to support students in person, as well as improve their relationships with the growing number of non-traditional students who may only experience the university online.

According to LeLe Hobbs, a graduate student and full-time employee of the One Stop Shop, the building is vital to the service and communication with students.

“We plan to improve communication with every student and reduce the complexities caused by an ever-increasing number of phone calls that come into our call center at peak times through-

“When I came here as an undergraduate student I remember having to go to the Business Administration Building to access the registrar and then back to Halladay Student Services for financial aid,” she said. “The One Stop Shop allows quicker communication with other offices for the faculty, and quicker, better service for students.”

out the day,” Hendrix said. “We want to take the mystery out of financial aid by focusing on an individual student’s status through the new portal system to be implemented in a few months, and we plan to create a knowledge-based system that will allow students to enter questions and receive an immediate response.”

According to Stephanie Holley, dean of enrollment management and retention, although the One Stop Shop has experienced great success with its current programs and services within its few years of being open, bigger and better things are on the horizon.

Hobbs expressed her appreciation for the time-saving building both as a student and a staff member of Texas A&M UniversityCommerce. “I think they hit the nail on the head in providing what students need by consolidating the most student intensive services into one building.”

“An exciting resource we are implementing is a new advising and planning tool called DegreeWorks, which was introduced to students in April,” Holley said. “This system will enable advisors to plan out a student’s schedule for future semesters to ensure they

As A&M-Commerce strives to help deserving students like Hobbs pursue a college education, the staff at One Stop Shop will continue to stand at the ready to help each one achieve their academic and career goals.

Pride The Alumni Magazine Spring 2012

“Classes for the semester were already starting, but it really was a case of ‘if you want to be in school, we will make it happen.’” — Gail Chandler

Big fish, small pond, perfect home by Savannah Christian

ust a few short months ago, Sara Cushing and her mother, Gail Chandler, headed out of the Metroplex toward Texas A&M University-Commerce in search of a fresh start. Little did they know the mother-daughter duo would find more than a change of universities and a brighter future in Commerce, they would find a home for Sara.

Sara had started her college years at the University of Texas, but felt lost in crowded lecture halls and classes with hundreds of other peers. Sara found the bureaucracy difficult to navigate when she sought tutoring help and tried unsuccessfully to change majors. “I was in classes with more than 500 other students,” Sara said. “I have test anxiety, and when other students are finishing tests all around you and getting up and leaving, it becomes hard to focus. I tried to get help, but felt like no one would even pay attention to me.” After a couple of difficult semesters, Sara left UT to take classes at a community college with a goal of transferring elsewhere. Gail knew business and education leaders in Dallas who recommended A&M-Commerce and suggested to Sara that it might be what she needed to help her succeed. “I emailed Randy [Jolly] who set us up with Dr. Mary Hendrix,” Gail said. “When we came to visit, it was the first day that classes for the semester were starting, but it really was a case of ‘if you want to be in school, we will make it happen.’ That was just awesome.”

After speaking with Dr. Hendrix, vice president for student access and success, learning about the services the One Stop Shop provides for students, touring the campus, and speaking with an academic advisor, both Sara and Gail knew they had found a fit. “As a parent, I just couldn’t believe how great it was,” Gail said. “It was like everything just fell into place. Literally, by 6 p.m. we were headed back to Dallas, trying to pack and get her back to Commerce in time for her class at 9 a.m. the next morning.” Even though she could easily commute from home to Commerce, Sara wanted to be a part of her school. Her mother agreed. “She needed to truly be in school, and the One Stop Shop made it easy,” Gail said. “She had really been looking for someone to give her a second chance, and that is what A&M-Commerce has done for her.” Sara is currently finishing her first semester as a Lion, and said she has found happiness, something that also brings joy to her mother. “I like living here, being a part of the school and having my place,” Sara said. “Unity is definitely a big thing here. It is a strong campus, and everybody works together. They are willing to teach you and give you their time. Instead of just being a number, I feel like a part of this world.”

Spring 2012 Texas A&M University–Commerce

grow

room to

student life residence halls

by Sydni Walker

rom an 80-room wooden dormitory in 1899, to the 125-room suite-style residence hall opened in 2011, campus housing has come a long way. More than a bed, a desk and some closet space, today’s dorm rooms accommodate the needs of a new kind of student, one who wants to learn outside the confines of a traditional classroom and desires to be a part of a vibrant campus community. Recognizing the need for change, the Residential Living and Learning team at A&M-Commerce has worked diligently to meet these changing needs, and provide students with new housing options. “Right now, our plans are to build the second of what we hope will be a four-phase project,” said Dennis Koch, director of resident living and learning. “We are also hoping to do some minor renovations on some of the existing halls over the next couple of years.” The benefits of these efforts are two-fold. Not only does living on campus improve student retention, it also improves students’ overall academic success. “Life in a residence hall is an experience and a chance for the student to be the person that they want to be,” Dennis said. “To create a complete college experience that will assist students in achieving their goals, students need to be a part of a college community; we want to help.” Two such living and learning communities are the Regents Scholars Program and the Honors College housed in Pride Rock and Prairie Crossing respectively. Both programs train students to change the world through rigorous academic study and community engagement. The residence halls contribute to this sense of community by hosting events and study sessions that encourage interaction among students.

Pride The Alumni Magazine Spring 2012

Whitley Hall Towering 12 stories above campus, Whitley Hall is where many A&M-Commerce freshmen call home. Room layouts allow for double occupancy in apartment style suites, and cable, Ethernet and phone services keep students connected to the outside world. Whitley also features lounge areas and laundry facilities on each floor.

Spring 2012 Texas A&M Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Commerce

Pride Rock The three-story, 258-bed residence hall is designed to meet the needs of today’s students. Each two-person room features a living area ideal for studying or relaxing with friends, and separate bedrooms for each student. Residents also have access to community activity spaces, outdoor courtyard seating and comfortable study lounges throughout the residence hall.

The Regents Scholars have lived together on campus since 2010, creating a tight-knit community within their wing of Pride Rock. Study groups and Tuesday night tutoring sessions allow the Regents to grow personally and improve academically. “There’s more to college than just getting a degree,” said Dr. Ricky Dobbs, dean of University College. “There’s as much learning going on outside of class as in class. These on-campus venues for learning impact the kind of person a student will become when they leave. A college graduate who cannot relate to others is ineffective in the job market. That’s why campus life matters. A wise consumer of higher education will recognize its value.” Christine York, a resident assistant for the Regent Scholars at Pride Rock, takes advantage of the opportunities provided by living on campus.

“Someone living right down the hall from you, who is also in your classes, really helps,” Christine said. “Whether you miss class and need notes, don’t understand an assignment or simply want a study partner, classmates are always close by. Sometimes I wonder if I would survive college without my fellow Regent Scholars; I couldn’t imagine working or living anywhere else.” Students in the Honors College enjoy similar living and learning communities thanks to the foresight of Dr. Raymond Green, dean of the Honors College. “We purposefully chose to house Honors College students together because we wanted to provide students with a support network from day one,” Green said. “These students have similar motivations and face similar challenges. Thanks to living and learning communities, these students can provide each other with both emotional and practical support. We believe that some

Pride The Alumni Magazine Spring 2012

University College University College provides entering students access to guidance and services necessary for success at the university and throughout their lives. It promotes the university vision of becoming a premier regional university through the application of high academic standards, provision of high quality programs and a personal educational experience for each of our students. The program works to provide a transformative experience for all students that will make them better scholars, better citizens and more dedicated alumni.

learning happens ‘accidentally’, when students talk about what happened in class, what piqued their interest or what confused them.” Thanks to the close-knit communities fostered at both Pride Rock and Prairie Crossing, learning extends well beyond designated study hours, significantly impacting the academic careers of the students who reside there. “At PC, I am surrounded by my Honors College peers. When we have a test coming up, we don’t have to leave the comfort of our homes to study together,” said Richelle Brown, an Honors College student. “Living together has made studying easier, and our grades definitely benefit.”

Honors College Honors College provides honors scholars opportunity for a more in-depth curriculum and establishes a residential learning community. The Honors College curriculum includes 30-credit hours that students from all majors can undertake. These students and the honors office are housed in the Prairie Crossing Apartment Complex.

Regent Scholars The Regents Scholars program provides outstanding freshmen a four-year scholarship roughly equivalent to full tuition. It allows students to pursue a bachelor’s degree in their chosen field while developing their awareness of international issues and cultural contrasts. The program also provides students with leadership training and experience that will allow them to have a positive impact upon the lives of others on campus, and in their future profession. Thirty students are admitted to the program each year.

Spring 2012 Texas A&M University–Commerce

student life Morris Recreation Center Morris Recreation Center The Morris Recreation Center features outdoor and indoor facilities that satisfy the adventurer and health nut in everyone. Outside, students can enjoy the heated pool, two-tier hot tub with waterfall, sand volleyball courts, basketball courts, picnic tables, BBQ pits, or just lay back and enjoy the sun. Indoors students can scale a 45-foot climbing rock, run on the three-lane jogging track, or work up a sweat on one of four racquetball courts, two basketball courts, fitness room with weights and cardio machines, or the aerobics rooms. The MRCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest addition is the Adventure Based Experience facility featuring a massive outdoor challenge course.

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wellness

creating

by Savannah Christian

t any time of the day or night, activity and energy abounds in the Morris Recreation Center. Promoting health, fitness and overall wellness, the building is open to students, university employees and the Commerce community.

Dimitri Lyon, senior admissions recruiter, believes the recreation center is one of the most popular features of the campus and is an attractive asset for potential students. “The recreation center provides an opportunity to escape from the rigidity of the classroom environment,” Dimitri said. “Classes are challenging and college life brings its own level of stress to each student. To many, finding an opportunity to work out helps to relieve stress. What is particularly great about our recreation center is the fact that it focuses on not just physical health, but rather overall wellness.” Since stress can weigh heavy on students as they try to balance class, work and study time while maintaining some sense of personal or free time, students such as Brittany Bettes, senior health and human performance major, use the center’s resources as an outlet to dispose of that tension. “I enjoy working out at the rec because of the atmosphere it provides,” Brittany said. “Being around other people with an interest in physical fitness motivates me and pushes me to work harder. I think the rec is essential to our campus because it helps promote a healthy lifestyle as well as providing an outlet to relieve stress.” The Morris Recreation Center houses two basketball courts, an indoor jogging track, 6,000 square feet of cardio and weight room space, four racquetball courts, a 45-foot climbing wall, a new bouldering wall, fitness classes, an outdoor pool facility, and an intramural sports program for students. “I came to A&M-Commerce in June 2009, and since then, we have seen a great increase in student use of the Morris Recreation Center,” said Jorge Juarez, director of campus recreation. “When this building opened in 2003, there were almost 8,000 students. Eight years later, our enrollment exceeds 11,000. Furthermore, with the new residence hall being built, the rec center and its programs will be even more in demand and near capacity.” As A&M-Commerce grows, its facilities must accommodate the change that such expansion brings. While the university continues to gain more attention, nationally and internationally, becoming the place to be for an all-encompassing learning experience, the Morris Recreation Center will play an even greater role in helping our students, employees and the community live healthier lives. Spring 2012 Texas A&M University–Commerce

success further afield university farm

sowing seeds of

by Ashley Johnson

n a fast-paced, drive-thru fed society, the process of getting food from the field to the family dinner table is often dismissed, the importance of each, carefully grown nutrient forgotten. However, thanks to a newly established research farm in Fairlie, Texas, A&M-Commerce students are taking new ownership of the food they eat and the land where it’s produced. The farm, leased to the university by Cereal Crop Research Incorporated (CCRI), allows students to study and research the best practices for growing wheat and other crops by planting and harvesting wheat on their own 10-acre plot. According to Jim Swart, co-founder of the program and Texas AgriLife Extension agent at A&MCommerce, this program is one of only three in the United States. “Students have a unique opportunity at A&MCommerce to plant, fertilize, harvest, and sell a crop during the course of a semester,” Swart said. “They learn how to operate farm equipment and machinery that they would otherwise not be exposed to. At the end of the semester, the students earned between $600 and $1200 selling their wheat crops. Any losses would have been absorbed by CCRI.” The farm produces more than monetary gain for students, however. It also serves the interests of regional farmers and members of CCRI who are eager to know which fertilizers, herbicides and seed varieties will work best on their soils. Thanks to the program, the farmers can rely on student research and results, rather than testing out individual products on their own farms. “Partnerships like this bring the Texas AgriLife Extension’s mission to life,” Swart said. “Thanks to CCRI, we are able to directly impact the lives of those in our community through student-led research. It allows

us to transition from simply teaching agriculture science, to creating knowledge and instilling passion for the land in our students.” According to Ben Scholz, CCRI president and A&MCommerce alumnus, the program also feeds a growing demand for people in the agricultural support industry with an interest in the chemistry and science of agriculture. Programs like this introduce students to the various career options in agriculture from sales to research and development of new fertilizers and equipment, and consequently keep the U.S. farmer competitive through technology and efficiency. For alumni like Josh Singleton, the experience of working in the field day-in and day-out proved invaluable after graduation and inspired the creation of Spring Fed Farms, a community-supported agriculture (CSA) venture in Terrell, Texas. “Growing up in the city I had a home garden, but this class offered me a bigger perspective of farming/ gardening. Once I was introduced to the CSA model of agriculture I knew this is what I had to do for a living. This class prepared me for the hands on experience that I’m using now.” For Scholz, that’s what the partnership is all aboutinspiring a new generation to care about how their food is produced, and find the best way, most effective and cost-efficient way to bring it to market. “So many students come to college with an interest in agriculture that’s animal based; they have no real experience working on a ranch or farm.” Scholz said. “The research farm opens their eyes to the world of agronomy and the business side of agriculture. Through hands-on learning, we are able to keep students interested in agriculture, and improve our ability as a nation to effectively and efficiently produce food for a growing population.”

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29 Pride Spring 2012 Texas The Alumni Magazine Spring A&M Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Commerce 2012 29

Transforming

Lives

Atmos Energy supports education

at Texas A&M University-Commerce through an endowment established in the fall of 2007. Sandra Doyle, director of public affairs at Atmos Energy, helped initiate the funds as a current board member of the university’s foundation. “It’s the number one priority at Atmos Energy to support education,” Doyle said. “We know how important it is to educate our youth, and there is a huge need for engineers. We are hoping to encourage and motivate more engineering students to develop an interest in the energy industry.” The endowment balance is currently $15,000, and generates approximately $750 annually for a scholarship. Carlos Robles, engineering senior, was awarded the Atmos Energy Scholarship in his junior year. “It’s always good to know that companies like Atmos Energy are looking out for students and finding ways to help them during school. I am very grateful to have received the scholarship,” Carlos said. “I’ve looked into the natural gas field, and I have become very interested in that area. I have kept in contact with the individuals I met so far at the company, and they have truly enlightened me.” Carlos is looking forward to a shadow day internship scheduled in May at Atmos Energy where he will be able to learn more about the industry through hands-on experience. He hopes it leads to future opportunities.

Pride The Alumni Magazine Spring 2012

For more information on how you can support students like Carlos through an endowed scholarship, contact Alicia Wittkopf, director of advancement services, at Alicia.Wittkopf@tamuc.edu or (903) 468-3020.

(lâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;r): Sandra Doyle, Director, Public Affairs, Atmos Energy, John Paris, President, Mid Tex Division, Atmos Energy, Carlos Robles 31 Pride Spring 2012 Texas The Alumni Magazine Spring A&M Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Commerce 2012 31

alumni events

Commerce takes Manhattan by Kim Williams

he Texas A&M University-Commerce wind ensemble and chorale performed in February at the world famous Carnegie Hall in New York City in the Distinguished Concerts International New York’s “Deep in the HeART of Texas.”

The concert included music by composers David Maslanka, Justin Freer, Andrew Bleckner, Anton Bruckner as well as a newly commissioned work by David Sampson entitled Legend, and featured works by Dr. Brian Zator on Bradley Bodine’s exciting new work, Kaleidoscope, for Marimba and Wind Ensemble as well as Jennifer Sanchez, soprano, on James Syler’s Symphony No. 1 (Blue) for Chorus and Wind Ensemble. This was the first visit to Carnegie Hall since the mid 1990’s. The concert audience included alumni from across the country, President Dan Jones and his family, and residents from New York and surrounding areas. Performance photos by Nan Melville

Pride The Alumni Magazine Spring 2012

alumni events Alumni Awards Gala The A&M-Commerce Alumni Association recognized six esteemed alumni at the annual alumni awards gala held in April. Receiving the Gold Blazer award, Dr. James Randy McBroom and Ron Skrasek were honored for their service to the alumni association and to the university. Receiving the Distinguished Alumni award, Dan W. Bobst, Judge Hilda Tagle, James Thrower and Dr. Larry Walker were honored for their professional achievements.

Tagle

Walker

Bobst and Thrower

Gamma Phi Beta Reunion

Young Alumni Networking

Gamma Phi Beta celebrated their 50-year reunion in March. The weekend was filled with a cocktail reception, campus tours, and a formal banquet. Gamma Phi Beta also had the pleasure of inducting new sisters into their chapter from Tooanoowe, a womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s social club previously on campus.

Lions gathered for the first Young Alumni Network event Feb. 16 at the Flying Saucer in Garland, Texas. Participants enjoyed an evening of food, fun, and most importantly, networking. The Young Alumni Network was created to keep recent graduates connected to A&M-Commerce through social and professional development events.

Spring 2012 Texas A&M Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Commerce

students in action Charting her own Path

A Cultural Contingency

fter being accepted to numerous universities, junior Elizabeth Kolawole chose to attend Texas A&M University-Commerce, the same school her mother graduated from in 2006.

onors College student James Yznaga spent the fall semester studying abroad in South Korea, learning not only classroom curriculum but the cultural experiences Handong Global University had to offer as well.

Although her mother has been a great inspiration in her life, it was the unique opportunities available at A&M-Commerce like the prestigious Joint Admission Medical Program (JAMP) that finalized Kolawole’s decision. “I was hooked after attending Mane Event,” she said. “That is where I found out about JAMP; no other school even told me about it.” JAMP is a partnership among all eight Texas medical schools and 65 public and private four-year universities, providing support for students throughout their undergraduate schooling. The program guarantees admission into a Texas medical school as long as all requirements are met upon graduation. Thanks to JAMP and the help provided at A&MCommerce, Kolawole hopes to secure a spot at UT Southwestern. “A&M-Commerce provides a great learning atmosphere,” Kolawole said. “Everyone here wants to see you succeed; I owe a lot of my self-worth and self-discovery to this university.”

James Yznaga Class of 2012 “Studying abroad in South Korea was one of the best things I could have done in college,” Yznaga said. “It taught me how different Korean culture is from Western culture.” While Yznaga spent most of his days in university classrooms, he also was given the freedom to experience Korea as a traveler instead of as a student. His semester activities included opportunities to attend Chuseok, the Korean harvest festival, explore Jeju Island and backpack through Busan where he visited the traditional Korean bath houses. “The experience was something you can’t replicate here in America,” he said. “By studying abroad, I learned just how small the world really is.”

Elizabeth Kolawole Class of 2013

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students in action Fearless Peerless Mentoring

Marching to Carnegie Hall

n an effort to give back on campus, journalism major Nick Bailey recently started a Peerless Mentoring Program to benefit students at Texas A&M University-Commerce. Bailey, founder and CEO of Peerless Promotions, the company sponsoring the Class of 2012 program, established the service as an outlet for incoming freshmen students to learn, grow and flourish into young adults.

Nick Bailey

“We teach students techniques to develop their skills in time management, study habits, money management and community involvement,” Bailey said. During the fall 2011 semester, the program mentored six freshmen students who showed great growth both personally and academically after only one semester with the Peerless Mentoring Program. According to Bailey, these improvements are a result of positive academic influence and community involvement.

Myths of the moon

ictoria Walters was recently recognized for her “superior” presentation at the Pathways Symposium featuring research from each of The Texas A&M University System schools. Walters, a member of the Honors College, presented research she developed for her honors thesis. She was the only undergraduate to receive an award.

“My study is a psychological analysis of why people believe the moon has an effect on their biology when it has been scientifically proven that it doesn’t,” Walters said. According to Walters, she and Dr. Raymond Green, her honors thesis advisor and dean of the Honors College, believe that the myths are linked with menstruation, the 28-day cycle of women and the 29.5 day cycle of the moon, a correlation people seemed to have noticed

ret Ryan is a man of many talents. A junior music education major, Ryan has taken full advantage of the endless opportunities at Texas A&M UniversityCommerce serving as a member of the prestigious speaker committee, First Year Leadership Class, the Sophomore Experience, assistant drum major, principal trombone for the wind ensemble and president of Kappa Kappa Psi service fraternity for the music department. Recently, amidst all of his involvement, Ryan enjoyed the honor of performing in New York City’s Carnegie Hall February 28.

“It was a very special situation to be involved in. I’ve never experienced or heard of anything like it, not at the collegiate level at least,” Ryan said. “Our ensemble holds itself to a high standard which has helped us become one of the top of the collegiate performing groups. That’s what gave us the opportunity to perform at a place as prestigious as Carnegie Hall.”

Victoria Walters Class of 2012 many moons ago. The study covers a variety of fields including psychology, anthropology, mythology, biology, and astronomy. Walters received the superior award for oral presentations, meaning she was the best presenter in the class, taking her place in the top one percent.

Bret Ryan Class of 2014

Spring 2012 Texas A&M University–Commerce

students in action

In the Moment

“

n the moment, that is where you want to be. And in the moment, with what little time one has to think…I found myself really literally wanting to pinch myself.” Those are the words I heard Dan Rather speak in an interview with KETR as he described his emotions as he reported on events such as Vietnam and Watergate — two of the many earth-shattering events he has covered. As I sat in the corner of the KETR studio only three feet away from the man who has informed me of every major news event that has occurred in my lifetime, fully enveloped in the moment, I began to think “somebody pinch me.”

I never thought I would meet Dan Rather, much less sit in an interview with him, walk him across the A&M-Commerce campus or dine in his presence. But, on April 17, those doubts were dispelled as I spent my entire evening in the shadow of the inspirational Dan Rather. When the renowned reporter walked into the KETR studio and shook my hand, he instantly became more than the man who replaced Walter Cronkite on CBS Evening News or the iconic presence on 60 Minutes 36

by Savannah Christian

— he became a mentor, personifying the same aspirations as me. As Rather recounted witnessing events such as the Kennedy assassination and 9/11, I was awestruck. He spoke of his beginnings in the news business, and how he prayed for God to send him the “big story” and to help him be on his “A” game when he did. I realized that 60 years ago the greatly esteemed and otherwise brilliant Dan Rather started out in a very similar position to what I am in now. What big shoes we aspiring journalists have to fill. When I looked around the small studio and recognized that I, an aspiring journalist about to graduate from college in only a few weeks, was witnessing Scott Harvey, a young man just embarking on his broadcast career, interview an icon of our field I realized for the first time the magnitude of the situation I was in. I, a young woman who can only dream of having a fraction of the success Dan Rather has seen in his lifetime, was sitting in the presence of a legend in the field of journalism, and would have several opportunities to mingle with him face-to-

(l to r) Dan Rather, Savannah Christian, Jerrod Knight, KETR general manager, and Scott Harvey, KETR news director.

face throughout the evening. In that moment, as the words “pinch me” scrolled through my mind, I was suddenly aware of the rare opportunities I have enjoyed.

Dan Rather with Savannah Christian at a recent reception prior to Rather’s speech.

If it wasn’t for the numerous experiences that Texas A&M University-Commerce has afforded me in my time spent here, I would never have been given a chance to sit across from Dan Rather, whether it was in a studio, at dinner or in an auditorium filled with more than 800 people. To have such a personal experience with one of the greats in journalism history is a gift I might never be able to top. If I never have another “pinch me” moment with someone of that magnitude, it will be all right, because the moments the university has given me will be enough to last me a lifetime.

Pride The Alumni Magazine Spring 2012

r. R. N. Singh, professor of sociology and criminal justice, was honored as a Regents Professor April 19 by The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents. The award is the highest honor a faculty member can receive from the A&M System. Singh has a doctorate from Mississippi State University, and his research interests include suicide terrorism, family violence, marriage relationships, and criminal law. His book, Terrorism: Its Global Overview, Explanation, and Prevention was published in April. Previous publications include Poverty and Interpersonal Violence (2008), Preventing Suicide Terrorism: Opportunities and Challenges (2007), and Assertiveness in Marital Relationships Among Asian Indians in the United States (2006).

Alumni Ambassador Forum Dr. Dan Edelman(right)’s accounting ethics class at the Universities Center of Dallas was treated to a guest lecture by Mr. Clint McDonnough (left), Dallas managing partner for Ernst & Young LLP. Mr. McDonnough shared experiences from his 35-year career with Ernst & Young, and emphasized the importance of integrity in business. He also reminded students that the three greatest assets of any company are its people, its reputation and its clients.

In March, A&M-Commerce Alumni Relations and the division of academic student affairs proudly welcomed 34 graduates back to campus. Each graduate was hand-selected by their academic department to be named a 2012 Alumni Ambassador. Each ambassador worked with their academic department to deliver a lecture or performance, allowing the ambassador to interact with students. This award is the highest honor a department can bestow upon one of its graduates. After 29 years, the Alumni Ambassador Forum has recognized 809 Ambassadors, each with their own unique story of success.

1st Row: Dr. Gail Johnson, Kathy Beshirs, Dr. Stanley Holmes, Dr. Kim Wommack, Dr. Brooke Ludwig, Brian English, Dottie McIntyre, Elva Resendez, Jennifer Hougham, Gloria Espinosa, Anna Griffiths, Dr. Jonne Akens, Dr. Sal Attardo, Dr. Larry Lemanski 2nd Row: John F. Williams, Dr. Aaron Adair, Vivian Dorsett, Jim Babor, John G. Self, David Danforth, Leslie Milder, Dr. Kara Bickel, Dr. Kim Klakamp, Catherine Johnston, Dr. Deborah Brennan, Larry Bugg, Dr. Edward Jones, Dr. Hal Langford 3rd Row: Mike Smith, Tracy Tipping, José Estrada, Merry Ressler, Cpt. Sara Hurst, Conner John, Rapheal Holder, Darla Seible, Racquel Washington, Dr. Phil Gilbreath

37 Pride Spring 2012 Texas The Alumni Magazine Spring A&M University–Commerce 2012 37

Business and Entrepreneurship Dr. Hal Langford, dean of the College of Business and Entrepreneurship, taught the first business administration course at International Burch University in Sarajevo. The preparatory course applied business research investigates the techniques of the research process as applied to Langford business. Experience is gained in defining research problems and in collecting, analyzing, recording and interpreting data.

Accounting Dr. Daniel Edelman, professor of accounting and department head, led a group of students to Beijing, China in May 2011. He taught A&M-Commerce students and Chinese students about international accounting and international taxes. Dr. Edelman also taught graduate Chinese students about venture capitalism and traveled to Belgrade, Serbia to teach advanced managerial accounting to M.B.A. students. Last year, he received a best paper award and a research award from the A&M-Commerce faculty senate.

Economics and Finance The economics and finance department hosted the first Fullbright exchange faculty from China, Dr. Honyung Ma, professor of economics in the College of Management and Economics from the China University of Geosciences- Beijing. He was on campus for one year. Dr. Steven Shwiff returns in June from a three-month faculty exchange at the university in China where he is teaching a course in environmental economics to about 20 Chinese students. The faculty exchange Shwiff is from March 1 to May 31. Steve’s wife accompanied him, and she is teaching a class in conversational English to about 30 Chinese graduate students during their visit. This was Shwiff ’s ninth trip to China since 2001. He also had a paper published in China entitled “Economics of Mineral Extraction in China.” Shwiff’s also spent three weeks in Thailand with alumni Cherasak and Patcharin Charoensukmongkol and Kashi and Tommi Jayaraman.

Marketing and Management The marketing and management department formed partnerships with Belgrade Graduate Business Programs in Belgrade, Serbia and International Burch University representing Sarajevo, Bosnia, and Herzegovina and International institute for Higher Education in Morocco in North Africa. These partnerships position A&MCommerce both in Middle Europe and the continent of Africa with a representation that reflects the department’s additional and supplemental implementation of the university’s global initiative within its strategic plan. Within these partnership agreements half of the courses for the completion of an M.B.A. or Master’s of Science in Marketing will be conducted on premises at the foreign university by department faculty. Dr. Lloyd M. Basham, assistant professor and department head for marketing and management, presented “Transformational Leadership Characteristics Necessary for Today’s Leaders In Higher Education” at the 2011 Barcelona European Business and Economics Conference in Basham Barcelona, Spain hosted by The Clute Institute. The research and study addressed the significance and current widespread appeal of transformational leadership and its practical application to higher education. The presentation paper has been peer reviewed and selected for publication. Dr. Basham also taught a second course, marketing management, with Dr. Mario Hayek, which is the comprehensive study of the effective applications of marketing strategies in international organizations where special case analysis related to the region. Current professional literature was utilized with students providing recommendations and solutions to issues and problems with the introduction of a product from the local region. Dr. John Humphries, taught management skills development, which provides an in-depth seminar emphasizing the development of the skills and knowledge required for successful managerial performance. It focuses on such areas as developing awareness, creative problem solving, supportive communication, the use of power and inf luence, motivation techniques and managing conflict.

Dr. Nathan Harness will be teaching in London for Summer II in 2012.

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Education and Human Services

District of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance. She also presented a paper in March at the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education and Dance in Boston, Mass.

Psychology, Counseling and Special Education Dr. Lavelle Hendricks was elected president of the Texas Council of Faculty Senates. The group represents 39 public colleges and universities in Texas. His term is from 2012 to 2016. Dr. Charles Keenan has been invited to present at the Dallas FBI Field Office in October 2012 to the FBI Hostage Negotiator’s Group.

Tietjen-Smith

Hendricks

Dr. Carmen Salazar has been named a Fellow of the American Counseling Association (ACA). The honor is reserved for ACA members who have made significant and unique contributions in professional practice, scientific achievement and governance, or teaching and training, and who have made important contributions to the counseling profession. Dr. Salazar was presented with the honor in March 2012 at Salazar the ACA’s annual conference in San Francisco, Calif. This is the first time in the more than 50 years in the history of the counseling program at Texas A&M University-Commerce that a member of its faculty has received this honor.

Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Gil Naizer was named as a finalist for the Metroplex Technology Business Council’s Tech Titan of the Future award for their engineering summer camps. The award recognizes educators and education programs that encourage and support students to choose engineering and technology career fields.

Naizer

Educational Leadership Dr. Casey Brown was honored in a tribute issue of the journal, School Leadership Review. Dr. Brown was also awarded the Certificate of Excellence for Texas Council of Professors of Educational Administration Presidency. Dr. Rick Lumadue received The Sue Espinosa Technology Award.

Health and Human Performance Dr. Tara Tietjen-Smith received the University Health Educator of the Year Award from the Texas Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance as well as the Southern

Dr. Betty A. Block, Dr. Gwendolyn Weatherford, and Dr. Tietjen-Smith presented papers at the National Association for Kinesiology in Higher Education Conference in San Diego in January. Dr. Block is now the vice president-elect for the National Association for Kinesiology in Higher Education. She and Dr. Tietjen-Smith presented in February at the Southern Association for The American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD) in Orlando, Fla. Dr. Block had three scholarly papers published: “Supercomplexity in Higher Education Kinesiology,” “A Critical Thinking-Based Approach to Teaching University Wellness Courses,” and “The Adapted Dance Process: Planning, Partnering and Performing.”

Spring 2012 Texas A&M University–Commerce

Dr. Gwendolyn Weatherford received her Ph.D. from Texas Woman’s University in December 2011. Ms. Billie Abell, administrative assistant, is a member of the 2012 Commerce Leadership Institute class. Dr. Sandy Kimbrough has written an extensive practice/review test for the Texas Education Agency.

Social Work The social work department continued to implement two federally funded grants: Project RESPECT to prevent sexual assault on campus and Project PRIDE to provide mentoring services by masters of social work interns to incarcerated juveniles. The department hosted the PAL (Preparation for Adult Living) Conference for 75 high school youth in foster care throughout the state. This two-day conference provided a “college experience” to encourage youth to finish school and attend college. Dr. Jaimie Page presented her paper, “The Impact of Research Addressing Wrongful Convictions” at the European International Social Work Research Conference in Basel, Switzerland in March. She was also an invited speaker to present her paper, “Psychological Consequences of Wrongful Conviction” at the March 2012 National Innocence Network Conference in Kansas City, Mo.

Humanities, Social Sciences and Arts History The history department hosted the 2012 Northeast Texas Regional Conference of Phi Alpha Theta, the national history honor society in April at the Sam Rayburn Student Center. The program included 22 panels of student papers composed of two sessions in the morning and one in the afternoon. The keynote speaker was Dr. Bruce Brasington from the history department at West Texas A&M UniverKowalsky sity. Dr. Sharon Kowalsky, advisor for the Texas A&M University-Commerce chapter of Phi Alpha Theta, coordinated the event.

Literature & Languages Dr. Robert Rodriguez presented a conference paper in Brazil in Summer 2011. Dr. Lucy Pickering, associate professor and director of the Applied Linguistics Lab (ALL), joined Texas A&M University-Commerce in 2010. A native of the United Kingdom, Dr. Pickering taught in England before earning her M.A. and Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics at the UniverPickering sity of Florida. As director of the ALL, Dr. Pickering oversees a venue of innovative research in linguistics. The ALL maintains collaborative partnerships with Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Laboratoire Langue et Parole in Aix en Provence, France and The Center for Assistive Technology and Environmental Access (CATEA) at Georgia Institute of Technology. Current projects include the Texas A&M University-Commerce AAC Workplace Corpus Project, which focuses on the needs of workers using augmentative and alternative communication devices in the workplace.

Mass Media, Communication, and Theatre Mr. Jim Anderson’s show Breaking Up is Hard to Do was performed April 24-29. Mr. Noah Nelson was hired as Distinguished Lecturer. He is an Emmy award winner, a former NBC news anchor, public relations and communications professional. Dr. John Hanners retires in May. RTV upgraded its television facilities with two new studio sets donated by WFAA, Channel 8 in Dallas, and other major new equipment.

Music Dr. Chris White, department head, presented a paper in a session for the convention of the Southwestern Division of the American Choral Directors. The paper, “Luhring’s Lampshade Revisited,” examined a mnemonic for organizing and teaching a comprehensive history of choral literature. Dr. White was invited to present after submitting the paper for review.

WHITE

Pride The Alumni Magazine Spring 2012

The A&M-Commerce Chorale and Wind Ensemble performed in Carnegie Hall in New York City on Feb.28. The wind ensemble conducted by Mr. Scott Atchison and Mr. Phil Clements opened the performance. To close the first half, the wind ensemble’s Dr. Brian Zator performed a concerto for the band and marimba. After intermission, the chorale sang under the direction of Dr. Randall Hooper. Then, to conclude the concert the two ensembles combined for the world premiere of a new symphony. In attendance were three of the program’s composers, President Dan Jones Ph.D., Vice Presidents Larry Lemanski Ph.D. and Randy Van Deven P.E., numerous alumni, patrons, and dignitaries. Dr. Madeline Justice was recognized with the 2012 Personal Excellence Award at the 9th Annual Institute for Emotional Intelligence in San Antonio. Dr. Justice was cited for significant professional contributions in bringing transformative emotional intelligence to students, educators, and Justice teacher preparation programs. She researched and integrated positive assessment and emotional intelligence content into teacher preparation programs to help teachers meet the educational needs of the students of today and tomorrow. She has presented featured programs and shared research with state, national, and international participants at annual institutes and conferences. As a leading advocate for transformative emotional intelligence to enhance teacher preparation, Dr. Justice indicates from research the need to enhance the teaching profession in meeting the challenges for schools and communities. Her collaborative and caring styles of teaching exemplify scholarship of teaching, learning, and training with emotional intelligence.

Political Science Dr. JoAnn DiGeorgio-Lutz, department head, took a group of six students to Cambodia and Vietnam in Summer 2011. Dr. Lutz is also the recipient of the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship to Amman, Jordan from January to July 2008 and recipient of the J. William Fulbright Specialist Grant from Dewey International University for Cambodia from December 2010 to January 2011.

Sociology & Criminal Justice The Master of Science in Applied Criminology (M.S.A.C.) has more than 25 students moving through the program in its first year. The M.A.S.C. is a graduate program that takes students 18 months to earn a master’s degree. A number of students in the program or entering the program are already professionals who will use the degree to strengthen their professional and manage-

rial skills. The program offers students an opportunity to increase their knowledge while at the same time developing a rapport with a number of other professionals in the field or who are entering the field of criminology and/or criminal justice.

A note to follow so by Sydni Walker

r. Luis Sanchez, assistant professor of music, was designated as a Steinway Artist by Steinway Pianos in March. This selection comes after a rigorous international application, audition, and selection process—thousands of pianists are considered each year, but only few are selected.

“This designation by the world’s premiere piano maker ranks Luis among the most talented and revered pianists throughout the globe,” said Chris White, head of the music department. “As a Steinway Artist, Luis greatly increases the prestige with which the faculty is held among the music community.” Sanchez will immediately begin to attract greater interest among undergraduate and graduate students. The opportunity to study with a Steinway Artist is compelling to serious keyboard students.

Spring 2012 Texas A&M University–Commerce

Dr. Yvonne Villanueva-Russell serves as the graduate advisor for sociology majors, and she has done very well in assisting our students in their research projects and in graduating. Villanueva-Russell

Science, Engineering and Agriculture Agricultural Sciences Dr. Jose Lopez recently published an article in the Journal of International Agricultural Trade and Development entitled “Understanding Mexican Meat Consumption and Imports at the Table Cut Level.” The article is about a study that helps United States exporters in estimating future and Lopez current Mexican meat demand at the table cut level. It is the first to consider eighteen meat cuts and analyzes Mexican consumers’ responsiveness to price changes.

Computer Science & Information Systems The department has developed a prototype of a personal health information system that will assist health care consumers in receiving medical advice. This project is being carried out under the able guidance of Dr. Sang C. Suh and Dr. Varadraj P. Gurupur in collaboration with Dr. Richard R. Selvaggi Suh Gurupur from Live Oak Professional Center in Commerce. The project uses Dr. Suh’s expertise in data mining, Dr. Gurupur’s expertise in software architecture, and Dr. Selvaggi’s vast experience treating patients to develop state of the art technologies available to computer scientists. A research paper describing the central idea of this project has been published with the Journal of Medical Systems. The research group is currently developing an application that will provide assistance to patients suffering from lung cancer.

Sirakov 42

Dr. Nikolay Sirakov attended the Southwest Symposium on Image Analysis and Interpretation in April where he presented his paper, “Weapon Ontology Annotation Using Boundary Describing Sequences.”

Engineering and Technology Dr. Brent Donham was named as a finalist for The Metroplex Technology Business Council’s Tech Titan of the Future Award for the engineering summer camps sponsored by the department. The award recognizes educators and education programs that encourage and supports students to choose engineering and technology career fields.

Donham

The Master of Science in Technology Management program experienced unprecedented growth over the past academic year. The program integrates technology, applied engineering, project management, cost engineering, quality, business management, and leadership to prepare students for a wide variety of business, construction and industrial fields.

Horton

The department hosted Engineers Day Feb. 22 in conjunction with National Engineer’s Week Feb. 19-25 to celebrate developments and advancement in engineering. The event was led by Dr. E. Delbert Horton, and senior industrial engineering students assisted in the planning and execution to make the celebration a success.

The department also hosted the BIM [Building Information Modeling] 4 and 5D Scheduling and Project Delivery Platform Symposium in March (above). The event was led by Dr. Gregory Wilson, and construction students assisted in the planning and execution of the symposium.

Pride The Alumni Magazine Spring 2012

Mathematics Dr. Yelin Ou has been working actively in the frontier research in the study of the geometry of biharmonic maps and submanifolds. His exciting achievements include the solution to a mathematics conjecture made by three European mathematicians that had been unsolved for 10 Ou years. His results have been used, cited and announced in books and papers by many peers around the world. Dr. Eileen Faulkenberry received a grant to work with 4th through 8th grade math teachers in the region on the topics of rational numbers and measurement. Faulkenberry

The department celebrated Pi Day March 14. It had a pi(e) bake sale March 22 and created a Pi chain (shown above) to represent the digits of Pi. Each digit is represented by a specific color of paper. There were more than 750 digits of pi represented in the more than 200 foot chain.

Physics & Astronomy Dr. Carlos Bertulani and Dr. Jorge Piekarewicz of Florida State University finished editing the book “Neutron Star Crust” in February. The book will be published by Nova Science in New York in the summer and is intended to be a source of knowledge for senior researchers and advanced students working in nuclear astrophysics.

Bertulani

FACULTY SENATE AWARDS

The Faculty Senate established the David Crenshaw Outstanding Department Head Award in December 2011. (l-r) Dr. Dan Jones, president, Dr. Derald Harp, president elect of the Faculty Senate, and Dr. David Crenshaw.

Spring 2012 Fall 2011 Dr. Chip Fox Dr. Derald Harp The James “Jim” Vornberg Award The James “Jim” Vornberg Award for Teaching for Teaching Dr. Kay Hong-Nam Dr. Jason Davis The Steven S. Shwiff Award for The Steven S. Shwiff Award for Innovation in Learning Innovation in Learning Dr. John Ballotti Dr. Patsy Boshears The R.N. Singh Award for Service The R.N. Singh Award for Service Dr. Yvonne Villanueva Russell Mr. Chuck Nash The Augustine “Chuck” Arize The Augustine “Chuck” Arize Award of Imagination in Teaching Award of Imagination in Teaching Dr. Yelin Ou Dr. Michael Hanna The Dev R. Chopra Award for The Dev R. Chopra Award for Research Research Dr. Chuck Keenan Dr. Bob Williams (Ag) The Richard Lampe Award for The Richard Lampe Award for Integrity in Education Integrity in Education Dr. Jeff Kopachena Dr. Kathryn Jacobs The Madeline Justice “Unfettered The Madeline Justice “Unfettered Thought” Award Thought” Award Dr. Bob Williams Dr. Brent Donham The Trezzie Pressley “Ceaseless The Trezzie Pressley “Ceaseless Industry” Award Industry” Award Dr. Maria Hinojosa Dr. Shulan Lu The Donna Dunbar-Odom The Donna Dunbar-Odom “Fearless Investigation” Award “Fearless Investigation” Award Dr. Martha Foote Dr. Brenda Moore The David Crenshaw Outstanding The David Crenshaw Outstanding Department Head Award Department Head Award Dr. Grady Blount The Jerry Morris Dr. Dan Jones Outstanding Administrator Award The Jerry Morris Outstanding Administrator Award

Spring 2012 Texas A&M University–Commerce

class notes 1950s Dr. Bob Dowell (M.A. ’57), former professor, has recently published his third book Understanding the Bible: Head and Heart and is being published in three parts: The Old Testament, Matthew through Acts, and Romans through Revelation. The first two parts have been published. Part three is forthcoming. Susan A. Hyde (B.S. ’58) recently published her first book A Listing Wind, about murder, jealousy and true love in Texas.

1960s Ronald L. Bigony (B.S. ’64) had one of his paintings accepted into the American Watercolors 145th International Exhibition. E.R. Gammill (M.S. ’67), deceased, was honored with a dedication ceremony held in January 2012 in the Ybor Science Hall at the Hillsborough Community College, Ybor Campus-Tampa, Fla., in celebration of his life; husband, geologist, close friend of many and HCC instructor for 20 years. Dr. John West (B.S. ’61) was honored by the Fellowship of Christian Athletes as the 2011 Coach of Influence. Carol Wilcoxson (B.S. ’66) has just written her first novel No Record of Wrongs, which is now being published by Tate Publishing Company in Mustang, Okla.

1970s Robert V. “Buddie” Barnes, Jr. (B.S. ’76) was recently recognized for his leadership in the masonry industry with 44

the C. DeWitt Brown Leadman Award by the Mason Contractors Association. Alan Heath (M.A. ’73) was named president and CEO of UMR Communications in Dallas, a ministry dedicated to providing communication services to the churches of the United Methodist Church as well as other non-profit organizations. Dr. Duane Hood (B.S. ’63, M.S. ’67, Ph.D. ‘71), retired administrator of student services for Western Texas College, has been chosen as Phi Theta Kappa’s 2012 Board of Directors Alumni Achievement Award winner in recognition of his service contributions in support of Phi Theta Kappa on the local, national and international levels. Dr. John Gratton (M.S. ’72, Ed.D.’78) was named president of New Mexico State University-Carlsbad in January. NMSU-Carlsbad is a two-year institution and is part of The NMSU System. Leonora Patience Barnard McGuffey (B.S. ’74) has retired after 31 years of teaching. For the last 27 years, she has taught technology in the Van Independent School District where she received the Teacher of the Year award in 2011 and 2005. Alfred S. Taylor (B.S. ’71) has been living in Germany for 24 years as a restaurant and bar owner. Steven Trachier (B.S. ’79, M.S. ’81) was appointed athletic director for Texas Wesleyan University. Robert L. “Bob” Walker (B.S. ’70) was recently named president and CEO of Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children in Dallas.

1980s Kevin C. Banks (B.B.A. ’82) works as the director of synergy at Partnership Marketing for The Walt Disney Company in New York. Rhonda Meads (B.S.’82) wife of Timothy C. Meads (B.B.A.’82) was named Austin Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year for 2011-2012 in Tyler ISD. Rhonda teaches fourth grade math and science and has been a teacher for 19 years. Leslie Williams Patterson (B.B.A. ’88) recently completed her M.Ed. degree in special education with an emphasis in dyslexia at Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls. She is a certified academic language therapist and teaches students with dyslexia in the Caddo Mills Independent School District. Dr. Valerie J.H. Powell (M.S. ’82) professor at Robert Morris University recently published a book entitled Integration of Medical and Dental Care and Patient Data. The book informs readers of the needs and rationale for the integration of medical and dental care and gives an international perspective as to how and where medical and dental care separated into specific domains.

1990s Anthony “Tony” Aguilar (B.S. ’96, M.S. ’99) took some time off after working in Bagdad, Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom II and III and decided to enlist in the U.S. Army and commemorate the 10th anniversary of September 11. He graduated in September from basic training and is now stationed in Fort Bragg, N.C.

Pride The Alumni Magazine Spring 2012

class notes Jeffrey S Burnett (B.S. ’97, M.S. ’98, Ed.D. ’01) received the national faculty advisor of the year award from the National Academic Advising Association. He was also honored with Fort Hays State University’s pilot award, the highest faculty award at FHSU in Kansas. Robby “Rob” Collins (B.S. ’95) begins his 16th year with the CBS affiliate in Champaign, Ill. He is currently the anchor and executive producer of a four-hour morning show boasting number one ratings in all market categories. Wanda Adkins Hamilton (B.S. ’94) and her husband Chris are proud to announce the birth of their second daughter Riley Morgan in July 2011. Cory S. Johnson (B.S. ’98) was hired as manager of public relations for UniFocus, a workforce management software company in Carrollton.

2000s Julie Barnard (B.S. ’08) received her Masters of Physician Assistant Studies from Texas Tech University Health Science Center and has joined Dr. Les Sandknop Family Practice in Greenville. Justin A. Holland (M.S. ’08) is the business development officer at HomeBank Texas in Rockwall. He currently serves on the Heath City Council in Place 2 and is the youngest person ever elected to public office in Heath.

Dr. Cole McClendon (Ed.D. ’07) has been named the lone finalist for superintendent of Community ISD. Dr. Gwen Schroth (Retired ’03) former professor of educational administration, has published a fictionalized non-fiction book based on her experiences growing up in India, daughter of a Mennonite missionary entitled Curry, Corduroy and the Call. Donna Zemanek, CPA, RTSBA (M.B.A. ’08) has recently joined Brazos River Authority as an internal auditor. She is also an adjunct instructor at Tarleton State University in the undergraduate program.

2010s Ashly Perryman Fielder (B.S. ’08, M.Ed. ‘10) married Joel Fielder June 11, 2011. Brian Fiorisi (M.B.A.’10) and Stephanie Peebles Fiorisi (B.S.’05) welcomed their first child, Jonathan Michael on February 5, 2012. David Gonzales (B.A.A.S. ’10) was promoted to planner for the City of Rockwall. Ashley Johnson (M.S.’11) and husband Brent Johnson announce the birth of their first child, daughter Bailey Grayce, Feb. 14, 2012. Melissa Chappell O’Neal (B.S. ’07, MEd. ’11) and her husband Charles (B.S. ’07) welcomed their first child, Jordan Marie O’Neal, in September 2011 and both hope that she follows in their footsteps.

in memory Raymond B. Cameron (Sept. 1, 1919-Jan. 5, 2012)

fter proudly serving his country in World War II, Raymond B. Cameron, class of 1940, embarked on a successful career in real estate development as the co-owner of the Cameron Company of Rockwall, professionals in investment properties. He and his firm were responsible for developing many of the residential and commercial subdivisions that have shaped the landscape of Rockwall in recent years.

A man intimately entrenched in his community, Cameron spent more than 30 years serving the citizens of Rockwall as president of the Chamber of Commerce, school board, and Rotary Club and as a member of the City Council. He served his local Methodist Church in capacities ranging from Sunday school teacher to district lay leader, district trustee, and commissioner of the Methodist Home in Waco. Some of Cameron’s proudest moments of service were spent bettering the future of his alma mater. He served as president of the ETSU Alumni Association during 1965-66 and was later honored by the Dallas County Chapter with a special award recognizing his service to the university and the association. In 1977 Mr. Cameron was named to the Board of Directors of the East Texas State University Foundation. In 1978, he was bestowed with the university’s highest honor, Distinguished Alumnus. Altogether, Cameron’s life, career, faith, and family earned him the admiration and respect of all who knew him, and now, in his absence, the respect and admiration of an entire university community.

Spring 2012 Texas A&M University–Commerce

Garland Button (Dec. 1, 1918-Dec. 7, 2011)

r. W. Garland Button will be remembered as a pillar of all that is good at A&MCommerce. His ties to the university nearly span its entirety. Button followed his family’s footsteps to campus, graduating in 1938 with a degree in education. Following several years as a public school teacher, Button joined Texas Power and Light Co. as a clerk where he eventually rose to the second highest position, executive vice president for operations with membership on the corporate board of directors.

His service to the university spanned more than 50 years and six presidents. He served proudly on the ETSU Board of Regents, was a Distinguished Alumnus, and served as president of the ETSU Alumni Association. It is Mr. Button that we have to thank for ETSU achieving university status. He also assisted the university in efforts to retain its doctoral programs; and convinced the Texas Legislature that ETSU would be best served through the establishment of a separate Board of Regents to govern its affairs. Button’s service was so extensive, in fact, that one could easily believe higher education was his first love. That honor, however, belonged to his wife Margaret, class of 1939. When Margaret was diagnosed first with breast cancer in 1999 and then with a dementia-like disease in 2002, Garland Button began what he described as “the long goodbye.” Sadly, we at A&M-Commerce began our own long goodbye to Mr. Button. Although he is already gone, the legacy and love for his alma mater continue on. How does one begin to say goodbye to a bedrock of an institution such as he? At A&MCommerce, we’d like to think our goodbye to Mr. Button begins and ends with “thank you.”

1930s

Chloe Bookout (B.S. ’37) 5-9-2011 Woodrow Wilson Harrell (B.S. ’39) 11-2-2011 Genoah “Jodie” Knowles (B.S. ’39, M.Ed. ’62) 02-04-2012

1940s

Dr. John T. Binion (B.S. ’48) 2-4-2012 Raymond B. Cameron (B.S. ’40) 1-5-2012 Carl Clifford Hathaway (B.S. ’46, M.S. ’48) 12-12-2011 Helen Rice Moyle (B.S. ’41) 10-5-2011 Delbert G. Tarter (B.S. ’43) 10-21-2011 Jane Norris Treadway (B.S. ’40) 1-20-2012 Rosabel Warren (B.S. ’44) 8-14-2011

1950s

Bettye Jo Berry (B.S. ’59) 1-23-2012 Billy Lee Kent (B.B. A. ’58) 11-15-2011 Jennie B. Lacy (B.S. ’53, M.Ed. ’54) 4-7-2011 Edward Jerry Leeves (B.S. ’50) 12-10-2011 Jack V. Ogle (B.S. ’57) 1-9-2012 Billy T. Rouse (B.S. ’56) 7-19-2010 William Robert “Bob” Smith (B.A. ’50) 1-11-2012 Dr. Arthur Ray Southerland (B.M. ’59, M.Ed. ’61, Ph.D. ’66) 11-14-2009 Joan Garner Thomas (B.S. ’53) 11-6-2011

1960s

Bill J. Byrd (B.S. ’62) 10-11-2011 Dr. Raymond C. Harvey, Jr. (M.S. ’67, Ph.D. ’71) 10-23-2011 Mary E. Morey (B.S. ’67) 1-21-2012 Donald Lee McNichols (B.S. ’68) 8-21-2011 Willie Sue Smith Stewart (M.Ed. ’67) 10-17-2011, lived to the age of 101. Glenda Farr Walker (B.B.A. ’60, M.Ed. ’80) 7-28-2011 Benjamin Gerald Wilcoxson (B.S. ’63) 4-28-2011

1970s

Carolyn R. Austin (M.S. ’78) wife of 8th President Charles J. Austin, 10-29-2011 Marie Turner Ball (B.S. ‘78) 11-19-2011

Patricia Witherspoon Carpenter (B.S. ’75) 8-17-2011 Gladys Parkey Chadwick (M.S. ’73) 10-8-2011 James S. Cooper (B.S. ’71) 7-31-2011 Kathy T. Cooper (B.S. ’76) 1-10-2012 Dr. W.P. “Rip” Drumgoole (B.M. ’72, M.S. ’73, Ed.D. ’80) 10-27-2011 Jeri Howell Hodges (M.Ed. ’77) 12-8-2012 Sandra Daniel Jaco (B.B.A. ’75) 9-18-2011 Billy D. Lee (Ed.D. ’74) 8-26-2010 Kenneth Earl Little (B.S. ’73, M.Ed. ’78) 1-10-2012 Don H. Oglesby (B.B.A. ’71) 12-201998 Charlotte Heflin Reaves (B.A. ’74, M.Ed. ’82) 12-3-2011 Thomas Oglesby, Jr. (B.S. ’73) 2-1-2012 Isaac Tippens (M.S. ’73) 11-25-2011 Susan Randall Winstead (B.S. ’71) 02-22-2011

1980s

Tammy Franklin Barnes (B.S. ’89) 11-8-2011 Tony Fitzgerald Finney (B.A. ’85) 2-5-2012 Mary K. Knowles (M.Ed. ’80) 7-4-2011 Anna Wu (M.S. ’81) 1-16-2011 Stanley E. Tomerlin (B.S. ’81) 1-26-2012 Norman “Bubba” Ulmer, Jr. (B.S. ’80, M.S. ’83) 10-10-2011

1990s

Donald Dean Fry (Ed.D. ’94) 11-22-2011 Patrick Lee Gilbert (B.S. ’95) 7-16-2011 Edwin J. Helt (B.S. ’92) 8-29-2011 Sheri Kay Hudgeons (B.B.A. ’96) 10-15-2011 Lt. Todd W. Krodle (B.S. ’92) 8-14-2011 Jackie L. Spring (B.S. ’94) 12-2-2011

2000s

Mark Devan Deconcini (B.S. ’01) 1-13-2012 Malinda Wiley Dixon, former student 2003-2005, 12-3-2011

Pride The Alumni Magazine Spring 2012

giving back Making the Difference by Kim Williams

he accounting department is one of many departments housed in the McDowell Administration Building, and it is leading the university in growth out of all departments according to Dr. Dan Edelman, accounting department head and associate professor.

Prior to coming to A&M-Commerce, Edelman was a business owner and worked in the department of justice during the 9-11 attack. Teaching is something he fell into and fell in love with at the same time and without meaning to.

Edelman has made strides in improving the accounting program since 2007.

“When I took my first master’s class, my professor asked if I’d like to be a graduate assistant, and I didn’t even know what that was,” Edelman said. “They ended up having me teach a class after that semester, and the next thing you know, I’m a teacher.”

“With the 20 to 25 students who have sat for the CPA exam, we’ve placed 5th, 8th and 13th in the state throughout the last two years for pass rate,” Edelman said. “Our scores have significantly improved during the last five years.”

The Texas A&M UniversityCommerce accounting department hosted Mr. William Treacy, executive director of the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy on March 27, 2012 at the A&M-Commerce campus in Dallas. Mr. Treacy shared his expertise and insights with the business ethics of accountants class.

Edelman has been creative in his approach to improving consistency in the pass rate by building a relationship with Becker CPA Review. The company will help students review for the CPA exam which should in turn help the pass rates. “When students are ready to graduate, they will review everything they’ve already learned in school; all the information needed to pass the CPA exam and teach them how to pass the test,” Edelman said.

Edelman continued his private account-

Dr. Dan Edelman, Mr. Bob Brown, university vice president for business and administration and Mr. William Treacy, executive director of the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy.

ing practice until it took up too much time into his teaching schedule. He let the business go to continue in education. “We care at A&M-Commerce. We care about our students, not only in class, but in their jobs,” Edelman said. “A lot of our students are first-generation students, something I can relate to. You can be whatever you want to be here, and our faculty truly enjoys helping students achieve their goals.”

Edelman said there are a lot of opportunities in accounting which is very rewarding for students. What he really enjoys, however, is working with the students. “It’s fun. There are no two days that are the same, and it’s never mundane,” Edelman said. “It is very rewarding to work with and help the students.” Edelman’s helpful hand extends beyond the classroom. “I saw a woman in our office a couple times. She was a member of our honor society, Beta Alpha Si, and one day she was talking to her professors saying ‘good bye’ because she had to drop out of school,” Edelman said. “I asked her ‘What’s going on?’” Edelman discussed the situation with her only to find out she had a daughter with spina bifida, recently went through a bad divorce and was subsequently on welfare because she didn’t have a job. “She didn’t know what else to do,” Edelman said. “We were able to find her a job here on campus as a student worker.” Edelman is happy that she still works in the department, and believes that if he and other faculty and staff at the university didn’t intercede, she wouldn’t have been able to stay in school. “She is a senior, starting on her master’s degree in the fall,” Edelman said. “Now she’s going to be able to finish her degree, get a job, provide for her daughter, and become a productive member of society.”

Spring 2012 Texas A&M University–Commerce

giving back Investing in Growth

his is an exciting time at Texas A&M UniversityCommerce. Enrollment and program growth has led to the creation of four academic colleges. As a result, the advancement division now has a development officer assigned to each college, allowing the division to focus on the specific needs of each dean.

As state appropriations decrease and education costs increase, gifts from alumni and friends are more critical now than ever before. Funding through state appropriations account for only 32 percent of the university’s operational budget while tuition and fees provide 44 percent, leaving 24 percent to be generated through other means .

Two of the university’s greatest needs are student scholarships and college/department excellence funds. Attracting and keeping good students today is very competitive which makes student scholarships essential in sustaining the university’s enrollment growth. The excellence funds provide the money needed to support faculty, staff and students with the ability to pursue learning opportunities outside the classroom, conduct special projects, purchase items and equipment, and support priority needs as they arise. Your financial gift to an excellence or scholarship fund today is vitally important and no gift is too small. For more information please contact the development officer for the college of your choice.

Development Officers Partner with Deans The university’s four development officers have each partnered with a separate dean to learn firsthand what the unique needs are within each college and to become better prepared to share with our alumni and friends.

Wayne Davenport with Dr. Grady Price Blount, Dean, College of Science, Engineering and Agriculture (903) 468-8182 Wayne.Davenport@tamuc.edu

Dr. Brent Mangus, Dean, College of Education and Human Services with Taylor Fore (903) 468-8194 Taylor.Fore@tamuc.edu

Regina Saucier with Dr. Salvatore Attardo, Dean, College of Humanities, Social Sciences and Arts (903) 468-8167 Regina.Saucier@tamuc.edu

Wyman Williams with Dr. Hal Langford, Dean, College of Business and Entreprenueurship (903) 468-8187 Wyman.Williams@tamuc.edu

Pride The Alumni Magazine Spring 2012

From Your Alumni Association

s I admired the new statue on campus in memory of Rachel Rollings and Britney Lipsey, I couldn’t help but think how such a statue typifies why this university is so special. Aptly named “The Teacher,” it memorializes Rachel’s dream to teach and make a difference in the lives of children.

From what I know of Professor Mayo and the university’s founding principles, Rachel and Britney were exactly the kind of students Professor Mayo had in mind when he founded this university. They were driven to learn, and driven to better their futures through higher education. Mayo’s founding principles seem to permeate the campus today more than ever before. He was intent on providing learning opportunities for deserving students. My guess is, judging by the quotes we have preserved, he knew the names of the students for which he worked tirelessly. That same sense of personal concern and involvement permeates this campus today. Faculty, staff and alumni genuinely rejoice when our students succeed. They also are intimately grieved when a student is struck by tragedy or sidetracked by the hardships of life. I experience that concern and interest everyday in the emails I get and the phone calls I receive from our alumni. Hardly a day goes by without someone asking about a student, or how they can do more to shape the lives of the next generation of alumni. One of our most generous couples also spends time tutoring students. Some have retired from their work and sought ways to guest lecture or provide open doors with business associates. Others have worked relentlessly to keep their fraternity united

and involved to the point of creating one of the university’s largest endowments. There’s no question Professor Mayo, Sam Rayburn, Dr. David Talbot or any host of others closely associated with this university would be amazed at the new look of the campus, the excellence in teaching, and the wide variety of learning opportunities. What I think they’d be most pleased with is that the legacy of providing opportunities is alive and well, and that new generations of students are getting their chances to change the world through the generosity of spirit expressed by you, our devoted alumni.

Derryle Peace, Director of Alumni Relations

ecognize the name but not the face? Jane Martyn, assistant alumni director, is the source of the Alumni Association emails and correspondence you receive. Whether it be for a local or national event, she keeps alumni up-to-date via electronic communication on events at the university. Jane also schedules events off-campus, including area receptions, reunions and other events. If you are interested in hosting an event in your area, feel free to contact her at Jane.Martyn@tamuc.edu. Jane has worked for Alumni Relations for more than eight years. She has a B.B.A. and M.A. from The University of Houston.

A Member of The Texas A&M University System

PO Box 3011 Commerce, TX 75429 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

As Texas A&M University-Commerce grows, so does the importance of our 123-year legacy. We remember our foundation as we strive to build a better tomorrow.