TROY Today Magazine Fall/ Winter 2019

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TROY TODAY

Troy University Marketing and Communication Fall/Winter 2019

Executive Editor Donna Clark Schubert

From the desk of the Chancellor Troy University has more than 160,000 alumni around the world, and this issue of TROY Today Magazine is filled with news about Trojans who are shining a positive light on our great University and, in the process, adding value to every TROY degree. I hope each of you will join us for homecoming weekend November 8-9, where we will present four Distinguished Alumni of the Year Awards, all worthy of this high honor. This year’s recipients are: • Anshooman Aga, class of 1997, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Cubic Corporation in San Diego, a $2 billion company serving the defense and transportation industries, • Darlene Hutchinson Biehl, class of 1989, director of the Office for Victims of Crime, U.S. Department of Justice, • Tommy Bryan, class of 1978, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of Alabama and • Lamar P. Higgins, class of 1981, partner for Fine Geddie and Associates and a member of the Troy University Board of Trustees since 1996. Mr. Higgins is also featured in another story in this issue concerning the election of new officers for our Board of Trustees. Gibson Vance, a partner with the law firm of Beasley Allen and a member of the class of 1987, was chosen as President pro tempore, while Mr. Higgins was elected Vice President pro tempore. This issue also profiles Trojan alumni who are making their marks in business, art, military service, broadcasting, education and law enforcement. One alumna was crowned Miss New York, upholding a TROY tradition of success in pageants that has spanned five decades. This issue also reports on the successful opening of Coleman Hall on our Dothan Campus. This new building houses the Coleman Center for Early Learning and Family Enrichment, which will focus on early childhood education research and best practices. Jeff Coleman, CEO of Coleman Worldwide Moving and a TROY alumnus, made the lead gift on this important project. International news is never in short supply at Troy University, as we report on the summer commencement ceremony in China of our students in the 1+2+1 Sino-American Dual Degree Program. This is one of our centerpiece international programs, and I am pleased to report that we set another record enrollment of 1+2+1 students this fall. In closing, after three decades of service as Chancellor, I am convinced now more than ever before that this University’s best days are ahead of us. Troy University has an important role to play, and we have an outstanding team of alumni, faculty and administrators who will ensure that great things continue to happen at our University. It is my honor to serve TROY!

Editor Samantha Johnson Art Directors Rob Drinkard (’09) Mark Moseley (’97, ’99) Copy Editor Andy Ellis Contributors Matt Clower (’04) Tom Davis (’81) Andy Ellis Lynne Firmin Madelyn Flanagan Kyle George Buddy Johnson (’75) Clif Lusk Jane Martin (’97, ’99) Greg Phillips (’06) Adam Prendergast Emily Price (’09) Jonathan Sellers (’07, ’11) Anna Shay Wasden Josh Yohn (’07, ’14) Photographers Joey Meredith (’16) Mark Moseley (’97, ’99)

Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr., Ph.D. Senior Vice Chancellor, Advancement & Economic Development Maj. Gen. Walter D. Givhan, USAF, Retired (’89)

Sincerely, Associate Vice Chancellor, Marketing & Communication Donna Clark Schubert

Jack Hawkins, Jr., Ph.D. Chancellor

Associate Vice Chancellor, Development Rebecca Watson Director, Alumni Affairs Faith Byrd (’81, ’87)

TROY Today Magazine welcomes comments, ideas and suggestions from readers. Editors reserve the rights to determine if letters to the editor will be published and to edit submissions for content and length. Copyright 2019 by Troy University, all rights reserved. Troy University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist and doctoral degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia, 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Troy University. The Commission is to be contacted only if there is evidence that appears to support an institution’s significant non-compliance with a requirement or standard.

TROY Today Magazine is published twice a year for alumni members, donors, students, parents and friends of Troy University. For more information, contact the office of Marketing and Communication at: 256 Adams Administration Building Troy, AL 36082 Phone: (334) 670-5830 Email: troymagazine@troy.edu Find us on: troy.edu/social and at www.troy.today Advertising : Contact Emily Flowers at 334-808-6743 or see the media guide at troy.edu/advertising.

Director, Marketing Samantha Johnson Director, University Relations Matt Clower (’04) President, Troy University Alumni Association Bill Hopper (’72, ’77)


Janice Hawkins Cultural Arts Park

Visit th e Janice Hawki ns Cu ltu ral Arts Pa rk —h om e of TROY's Intern ation a l Arts Center! Come see 200 replica Chinese terracotta warriors standing at attention, and dig into the rich history of Xi’an, China’s celebrated UNESCO World Heritage site. Complete your experience by touring the Center’s Fred “NALL” Hollis and Huo Bao Zhu galleries to see the works of world-renowned and local artists. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday - Friday

Saturday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Begin planning your tour today by visiting troy.edu/artspark. 334-808-6412 · iac@troy.edu


GIVING DAY October 16

With more than 160,000 Trojans around the globe, it’s no surprise we can do more when we stand together! Mark your calendars for October 16, and show your Trojan Warrior Spirit by getting involved in Troy University’s second annual Giving Day. In one day, you can make a difference in the lives of current and future Trojans. Your gift can be designated to scholarships, academic programs, athletics, facilities, organizations or any area or opportunity that inspires you the most. Take a stand on October 16. Visit troy.edu/givingday or call 334-670-3608.


T ROY T O DAY

Fall/Winter 2019

TROY celebrates Jack Hawkins, Jr.’s 30th year as Chancellor.

NEWS 2 From the desk of the Chancellor 6 Agreement paves way for military

18 New scholarships kick off With the creation of seven new scholarship opportunities, future students have more money-saving options than ever before.

20 Making history

7 Vance, Higgins tapped 8 International students bring value to U.S. campuses 9 Equipping global leaders 10 It’s hip to be square

42 TROY basketball prepares for new season

At Troy University, new partners mean new programs that lead to new opportunities. Come take a look into the University’s world of corporate partnerships, and see why TROY is constantly seeking to make connections that benefit individuals, organizations and communities.

24 30 years of Jack Hawkins, Jr.

40 The home turf

43 The field general

STUDENTS 44 Summer spectacular 45 Making the connection 46 Sound of success 47 Into the blue

PERSPECTIVES

15 Trojans dig Italy!

48 Ispirato: Italy inspires English students

16 Once upon a time in China We know his face. We know his voice. We know his heart. For three decades, TROY has looked to Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. for guidance and renewed vision. This year, join us as the TROY Trojan family celebrates Hawkins’ 30th year as Chancellor of Troy University.

30 Half a century of BSN

34 Trojan Spotlight: “TROY Bob”

ATHLETICS

22 TROY’s corporate partners

FACULTY & STAFF

32 PowerSouth invests in the IDEA Bank

36 BCBS of Alabama teams up with TROY’s Coleman Center

38 Culture on the court: women’s basketball tours Europe

14 Malone Award

DONORS / GIVING

35 New Shield Society members inducted

When Melanie Newman graduated from TROY with a degree in broadcast journalism, she never would have guessed she’d make professional baseball history. Come meet the Trojan who is part of the first all-female pro-baseball broadcast team.

12 National recognition

17 Alumna named RMI director

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On The Cover

For half a century, the University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program has helped prepare first-class medical professionals for health-related careers. Today, in the world of healthcare, TROY is synonymous with quality. Learn more about the history of this celebrated program.

ALUMNI 53 TROY alumnus wins MacArthur Award 54 TROY grads paint mural 55 Alum Notes 57 The art of law 59 Air Force journey 60 Miss New York 62 Alumni of the Year 64 China chapter


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TROY TODAY

AG R EEME N T PAV E S WAY FOR EXPANDED OPPORTUNITIES FOR MILITARY

Recent agreements between TROY, the Army and the Air Force

Degree Program, Air University Associate to Bachelor

are creating an easier path for service members to pursue

Co-operative, the Air Force ROTC program and the Air Force’s

graduate-level educational opportunities.

International Affairs Specialist program.

The University’s agreement with the Army provides for the

While the initial agreement was established to pay the costs

transfer of 12 graduate hours earned for completion of the

for just one student to complete their master’s degree, other

Command and General Staff Officer Course to be applied to

personnel can choose to complete their Air Force Institute

the Master of Science in International Relations at the Western

of Technology (AFIT)-sponsored degrees through TROY, a

Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation. The course

long-recognized leader in providing higher education to

is designed to educate and train intermediate-level military,

the military.

interagency and partner-nation officers to be prepared to

“Troy University is proud of our affiliations with the Air Force

operate in complex environments, field-grade commanders and

and Air University, and this agreement will help us to grow

staff officers.

that relationship to an even greater extent, allowing us to

“We are very proud of our partnership with WHINSEC,” said

serve more of America’s fighting men and women,” said Walter

TROY Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. “It’s a quality program

Givhan, TROY’s Senior Vice Chancellor for Advancement and

serving great students from many other countries. It’s that

Economic Development, a retired Air Force major general who

international flavor that has embellished that relationship. …

served as commandant of AFIT from 2009 to 2011.

It’s that position of wanting to graduate globally competitive

As the Air Force’s Graduate School of Engineering and

and globally aware students that we find really rewarding.”

Management, and its institution for technical professional

The Air Force’s agreement expands TROY’s current Air Force-

continuing education, AFIT seeks to support students in

specific programs that include the General Education Mobility

defense-focused fields and research aimed at maintaining

Initiative, the Community College of the Air Force Associate

the technological supremacy of America’s air, space and cyber forces.


T ROY T O DAY

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From left: Gerald Dial, Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Gibson Vance, Lamar Higgins and John Harrison.

VANCE, HIGGINS TAPPED AS OFFICERS FOR TROY BOARD OF TRUSTEES

The Troy University Board of Trustees recently elected

consumer fraud. He said he was honored and humbled to serve

C. Gibson Vance as the Board’s President pro tempore and

as President pro tempore.

Lamar P. Higgins as Vice President pro tempore.

“My only goal as president is service—that’s all I care about,”

The election took place during the Board’s August 1 meeting.

Vance said. “I want to do the best for TROY, and that’s going to

The new officers will succeed President pro tempore Gerald O.

be my guiding principle. I will work each day to make TROY a

Dial and Vice President pro tempore John D. Harrison, who have both completed two four-year terms as officers. Both Dial and Harrison will remain members of the board. “I want to thank both Sen. Gerald Dial and Mr. John Harrison for their years of service and the inspirational leadership they have provided to the Board and Troy University,” said Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor. “Gibson Vance and Lamar Higgins are

"GIBSON VANCE AND

LAMAR HIGGINS ARE BOTH GREAT TROJANS AND ABLE LEADERS WHO CARE DEEPLY ABOUT THE FUTURE OF TROY UNIVERSITY" -DR. JACK HAWKINS, JR.

better university.” Vance has been a member of the board since 2012. He and his wife, Kate, live in Montgomery. Higgins is also a TROY alumnus and former president of the Student Government Association. A member of the Board of Trustees since 1996, Higgins said it has been a great honor to serve his Alma Mater. “To go from being elected to represent the student body of Troy

both great Trojans and able leaders who care deeply about the

State University, to now being elected by my peers on this

future of Troy University. I’m grateful for their willingness to

board as Vice President pro tempore, no greater honor could

serve and look forward to working with them both.”

be bestowed on me,” Higgins said. Higgins is a partner in the

Vance is a 1987 TROY graduate who works as an attorney with

lobbying firm of Fine Geddie and Associates.

the Beasley Allen Law Firm, specializing in personal injury and


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TROY TODAY

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Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. meets with Chongqing Normal University President Meng Dongfang.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS BRING VALUE TO U.S. CAMPUSES

Troy University was one of the first institutions to join the

suggest to you that you cannot be globally competitive if you

1+2+1 Program, a groundbreaking partnership between

are not globally aware,” Dr. Hawkins said.

American and Chinese universities that has paved the way for

Nearly 180 students from 15 Chinese universities enrolled

thousands of Chinese students to study in the U.S.

at TROY this fall as a part of the dual-degree program, marking

The 1+2+1 Program has not only benefited Chinese students,

the second straight record-setting year for the program at

but it has also been transformative for Troy University, said

Troy University.

Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. Speaking in China in June during the

Formed in 2001, 1+2+1 is a partnership between the China

annual Sino-American University Presidents’ Forum at

Center for International Educational Exchange and the

Chongqing Normal University, Dr. Hawkins said, “The story we

American Association of State Colleges and Universities that

have in the Sino-American Dual Degree Program is a big story—

allows students at select Chinese universities to complete their

one that’s getting bigger each year.”

first year of study in China, two years of study at an American

In 1990, Troy University enrolled only 40 international

partner institution and then their final year back in China.

students at the Troy Campus. Today, more than 1,000

Graduates then receive degrees from both institutions. The

international students from 80 nations attend TROY,

program has grown to include 127 Chinese universities and 39

including 425 from China. The 1+2+1 partnership was the

U.S. universities.

catalyst that led to greater internationalization at TROY,

As it approaches its 20th year, 1+2+1 faces new challenges in

Dr. Hawkins said, creating a global learning environment that

the form of a tense political climate between the U.S. and China.

benefits all students.

“Global politics continue to influence this program … but I think

“Like any good partnership, it’s mutually beneficial. Our vision

it’s disingenuous for anyone to suggest that the United States

is to graduate students who are globally competitive, and I

does not benefit from international students,” Dr. Hawkins said.


EQUIPPING

T ROY T O DAY

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GLOB A L L E AD E R S

A p p li c at i on s o pe n Jan . 2 fo r n e w P h.D. Applications will be accepted starting Jan. 2 for Troy

leadership for organizational change, facilitation of global

University’s news doctoral program, the Ph.D. in Global

teams, effective communication, and improving organizational

Leadership. The program has received final approval from the

effectiveness. Students will complete core coursework

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, clearing the way

and choose a specialization in one of the following areas:

for enrollment to begin with an anticipated start date of Fall

Public Administration, Organizational Leadership, Strategic

2020 for the first class of students.

Communication, Educational Leadership and Administration,

“This is an exciting new program for Troy University and the

or Higher Education.

College of Education, and we are looking forward to opening

“The approval of our Ph.D. in Global Leadership represents

up applications this January and welcoming our first class of

another significant step in the evolution of our graduate

Global Leadership students next fall,” said Dr. Dionne Rosser-

academic inventory,” said Dr. Lance Tatum, Senior Vice

Mims, Dean of the College of Education.

Chancellor for Academic Affairs. “This degree program gives

To be alerted when applications are available, prospective

TROY its third terminal degree program and specifically

students should go to troy.edu/globalleadership and complete

provides an advanced degree option for our College of

the interest form. The Global Leadership Ph.D. can be completed online, offering a way for working professionals to earn a doctoral degree. It is TROY’s third doctoral program, joining the Doctor of Nursing Practice and the Doctor of Philosophy in Sport

Education, the founding

“This Ph.D. is a response to a need for leadership with an international perspective in diverse areas— education, the military, business and the non-profit sector.” -Jack Hawkins, Jr., Ph.D.

Management.

college of our University. I’m excited for our education alumni who have for many years expressed interest in the University developing this type of program. I want to express my appreciation to the faculty and administration in our College of Education for

Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor, said Troy University’s

the work and thoughtfulness that went into the development

evolution as Alabama’s International University—with its

of this program.”

partnerships with 135 universities in 31 nations—provided the

TROY’s Global Leadership doctorate will be unique in the

genesis for TROY’s latest doctoral program.

state of Alabama and is designed to develop leaders from

“This Ph.D. is a response to a need for leadership with an

diverse backgrounds that will serve locally, regionally,

international perspective in diverse areas— education, the

nationally, and internationally. That global focus includes

military, business and the non-profit sector,” Chancellor

encouraging students to pursue international internships,

Hawkins said. “A key feature of this program is a mentorship

said Dr. Rosser-Mims.

component where students will learn from a leader with

“This is an incredible opportunity for students and for the

experience in their field. This approach combined with global

College of Education,” Dr. Rosser-Mims said. “We will be

emphasis will prepare each candidate to succeed in the

preparing individuals to lead organizations across a variety

international marketplace.”

of disciplines, and to communicate effectively with diverse

The program aims to help students develop a variety of

teams across cultural lines. We want students to understand

leadership skills and competencies, including effective

leadership from a global perspective.”


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NEWS

TROY TODAY

IT'S HIP

TO BE SQUARE

TROY’s Small Business Development Center has become the Sorrell College of Business’ first tenant in the “IDEA Bank,” formerly the Regions Bank building, on Troy, Alabama's historic downtown square. The IDEA Bank will also eventually house the College’s entrepreneurship program and a collaboration center. “We are fortunate that such an accessible location exists for the Small Business Development Center to continue the support they provide for area small businesses,” said Dr. Judson Edwards, Dean of the Sorrell College. “The SBDC is a vital part of the College’s outreach and helps businesses in our region be successful not only in their start up but in their growth and expansion as well.” In 2018 alone, TROY SBDC clients created 197 jobs, helped launch 16 new businesses and helped clients acquire nearly $71 million in government contracts. Those businesses are located in Barbour, Butler, Coffee, Covington, Crenshaw, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston and Pike counties. “The Alabama SBDC Network, which consists of nine centers such as ours, provides emerging and established businesses with the expertise and resources needed to succeed,” said Judy Callin, the Center’s director. Last year, the Center provided access to more than $4.5 million in investment capital and provided nearly 1,100 hours of one-on-one advising in the service area.



NEWS

NATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR QUALITY, INNOVATION

Troy University has once again received national recognition as being among the best universities in the southeast. For the 15th straight year, The Princeton Review named TROY to its “Best in the Southeast” list, while U.S. News and World Report also recognized the University for its commitment to innovation. TROY was one of only 142 colleges and universities in the 12-state southeastern region to receive The Princeton Review’s designation. The U.S. News and World Report ranked TROY in the top 15 of its “Most Innovative Schools” list, and also named the University in its “Best Regional Universities in the South” and “Top Performers on Social Mobility” lists. “Great universities stir great emotions,” said Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr., “At Troy University, our faculty and staff are committed to helping our students become globally aware and globally competitive. I believe it is that commitment to serving students that has led to the consistency with which we have been recognized by The Princeton Review, U.S. News and World Report and other national publications and ranking organizations.” TROY’s inclusion in The Princeton Review list is the result of a survey that asks students to rate their schools in several areas and report on their experiences. Areas included: academics/ administration, campus life, fellow students and their own experiences. Surveys are conducted on campus and via The Princeton Review website, at which students have the option of completing a secure survey online. U.S. News and World Report determines its Best Colleges listings by using indicators in a variety of categories, including graduation and first-year student retention rates, assessment by administrators at peer institutions, faculty resources, alumni giving and graduation performance. Data was also collected from the Council for Aid to Education and the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics. In all, U.S. News and World Report gathered data about more than 1,800 U.S. colleges and universities to determine its rankings.


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Highly qualified teaching and health professionals • Teachers within the K4 program possess 4-year degrees in early childhood education or a related field. • Auxiliary teachers have earned a minimum of a CDA or associate degree in early childhood education or a related field.


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TROY TODAY

HAMILTON RECEIVES

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M A LO N E AWAR D

For Dr. Hamilton, the award was an honor and humbling.

Dr. Bernita K. Hamilton, a professor in the

“I am very blessed to belong to a community of dedicated

School of Nursing, was recently awarded Troy

faculty at Troy University who share a vision and commitment

University’s Wallace D. Malone, Jr. Distinguished

for excellence in teaching, service and scholarship,” she said.

Faculty Award. The award, made possible through a $100,000 endowment by SouthTrust Corporation, comes with $1,500 and a medallion to be worn with academic regalia. Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor, and Dr. Lance Tatum, Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, presented the award during the annual Faculty/Staff Convocation. “Dr. Hamilton is an excellent role model and has been described by her peers as being a mentor to both students and faculty,” Tatum said. “She is an outstanding educator and scholar as evidenced

From left: Dr. Hawkins, Dr. Hamilton, Dr. Tatum and the 2018 Malone Award recipient Dr. Vitaly Voloshin.

through her research and publications, as well as her participation on numerous state boards and organizations.”

A NATURAL FIT

AISA DUAL ENROLLMENT AGREEMENT An agreement signed by Troy University and the Alabama

impact for students in the association’s 76 member schools,

Independent School Association is providing ACCELERATE, the

giving as many as 6,000 students access to the program with

University’s online learning portal for non-public high school

the potential for more.

students, to AISA member schools starting this fall. ACCELERATE provides classes for students that broaden the depth of academics offered by participating schools, affords advanced-placement classes in subjects that may not be available in every school and gives students the opportunity to earn college credit with dual-enrollment classes. “This partnership with the AISA is a natural fit and it is one that we want to see continue to grow,” said Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. Currently, there are almost 600 students from AISA institutions studying on campus and 170 AISA students enrolled in dual enrollment. Michael McLendon, executive director of the AISA, said he expects the agreement to have a tremendous

The program will provide opportunities for students in the 10th through 12th grades who have a 3.0 high school GPA and a minimum score of 20 on the ACT or 1030 on the SAT.


T ROY T O DAY

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TROY students get their hands dirty during a historical dig in Italy conducted by the University of Pisa. The dig took place in Vada, along the coast of Tuscany.

FACULT Y / S TA F F

PISA, ITALY WE DIG IT

A new cooperative partnership with an Italian university

According to the project’s website, its purpose is to educate

is giving Troy University archaeology students a chance to

students about the scientific methods and technology used

explore one of the world’s most historic areas.

by archaeologists today and to continue investigations into a

TROY students spent this summer working on a historical dig

recently uncovered ancient building and an ancient cemetery.

with the University of Pisa. The partnership came about due to

The partnership could also lead to TROY student internships as

the work of TROY First Lady Janice Hawkins and Dr. Stephen

well as Pisa faculty and students coming to TROY.

Carmody, Assistant Professor of Anthropology.

“The department is extremely grateful to Mrs. Hawkins for her

This initial trip brought six TROY students, along with one

help in establishing this cooperative partnership,” said Dr. Bill

from Sewanee where Carmody previously taught, to participate

Grantham, Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.

in Digging Vada, a University of Pisa summer school project that

“The plan is for a long-term partnership that gives opportunities

involves archaeological research in Vada, along the coast

to students and faculty on both sides.”

of Tuscany.


FA CU LTY / S TA FF

ONCE UPON A TIME IN CHINA

Troy University representatives recently toured China, exploring its culture and TROY's partnerships throughout the country.

Thanks to the Confucius Institute, a group of Troy University

open to our suggestions. They want to have an even greater

representatives recently toured China, exploring the mutual

relationship with us, to do more to foster the education of their

benefits of TROY’s relationship with the country while learning

students and our students. I am extremely pleased they have

and teaching along the way. The excursion took the TROY

this kind of attitude toward Troy University.”

representatives to Shanghai, Chongqing, Xi’an and Beijing—an

From there, the voyage took the group to Xi’an for a glimpse

experience that included both educational and cultural visits.

at the inspiration for one of TROY’s standout features, the

“My trip to China was an awesome experience,” said TROY

Terracotta Army. “Seeing the Terracotta warriors was one of

Board of Trustees member Karen Carter. “It was incredible to

the coolest things we did,” said Dr. Paige Paquette, Associate

visit the country, see the history and visit the sites.”

Professor of English.

The trip included a visit to TROY’s Chinese partner institution,

The trip to Beijing coincided with a visit to Hanban, the

Chongqing Normal University, where the Trojan contingent met

international headquarters of the Confucius Institute. “It

with CNU leaders, faculty and students. They were also able

was really an honor to see how well respected TROY is there

to meet the institution’s new president, Dr. Dongfang Meng,

and how important they feel our connection with them is,”

before touring the university’s College of Journalism and

Paquette said.

Media Communication.

Carter credits Dr. Iris Xu, Director of the Confucius Institute at

The CNU students and faculty were eager to learn, but the

TROY, with fostering the relationship across continents. “It was

TROY delegates walked away just as enlightened. “This was

inspiring to see what our Confucius director, Dr. Xu, is doing

my third trip to China and to CNU, and I am always impressed

to help us better understand Chinese culture, language and

with the close relationship we have with the administrators,

people,” Carter said.

deans and faculty there,” Carter said. “I find them to be very


T ROY T O DAY

17

FA CULT Y / S TA FF

ALUMNA NAMED RMI DIRECTOR

Dr. Courtney Bass Baggett was appointed director of the Risk Management and Insurance Program by Sorrell College of Business Dean, Dr. Judson Edwards, following the retirement of Dr. Ed Duett. “I have the highest confidence in Dr. Courtney Baggett to lead and advance the tradition of excellence in Risk Management Insurance,” Edwards said. Baggett, a 2012 RMI graduate, said she would focus on student preparation for the workplace and expanding relationships with industry professionals. “Preparation, both inside and outside the classroom, is essential for student success,” she said. “From a curriculum standpoint, it is vital that our students be competitive upon graduation. I want them to begin their careers with as much of a head start as possible.”

STRENGTHENING T I E S

The Troy University Retiree Association (TURA), which held

you are at a University, you really become attached to the

its first general membership meeting in June, was created

institution. It’s not just a job. When we retire, there can become

to strengthen the ties between Troy University retirees and

a vacuum if you don’t know how to continue to contribute.

the University. Dr. Sam Shelton, the association’s president,

I want to see us have better communication and better

said the idea to have a formal retiree organization came from

opportunities for us to offer our services to the University.”

Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr. “Dr. Hawkins was really the

To get more information on TURA or a membership form,

initiator of this effort because he felt such an organization

please contact any TURA officer.

would be beneficial to both the retirees and the University,” Shelton said. TURA Vice President Dr. James Kimbrough encourages Troy University retirees to become a part of the organization to remain connected and continue to give back. “It helps us to remain involved in the institution where we spent a lot of years,” Kimbrough said. “It also gives us the opportunity to be around people we worked with to share experiences and to encourage them and be encouraged by them. I think that is very important.” Shelton said his long-term goal for the organization is to improve communication between the University and retirees. “There are a lot of resources among retirees,” he said. “When

TURA officers, from left Dr. James Kimbrough, Carol Ballard, Dr. Sam Shelton and administration liaison Ray White. Not pictured is Dr. John Dew.


FE ATU R E S TOR Y

NEW SCHOLARSHIPS KICK OFF ACADEMIC YEAR

For decades, TROY has provided students at home and abroad with scholarship opportunities that have helped make education more affordable for their families. This year, TROY has rolled out seven new scholarships.

NEW SCHOLARSHIPS KICK OFF ACADEMIC YEAR NEW MERIT-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS FOR 2020 WRITTEN BY: ANDY ELLIS Troy University has revamped its merit-based scholarships to further recognize high academic achievement and provide additional opportunities for prospective students. The new list, available to students who will enroll in fall of 2020, represents changes to some existing scholarships, as well as some new scholarship programs. “We vie for students in a very competitive environment. It is necessary that, given the value of a college degree, we offer students scholarship opportunities that will assist them in attaining that degree,” said Buddy Starling, Associate Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management. “We are fortunate to be able to offer a diverse and competitive scholarship program in order to bring the best students to TROY.” Included among the new scholarships is a two-tiered Scholars Award and an Online Transfer Award for nonAlabama residents. Check out the complete listing on the right.


SCHOLARSHIP GUIDE

CHANCELLOR'S SCHOLARSHIP

4 CONSECUTIVE YEARS AWARD:

SUNSHINE SCHOLARS AWARD

$6,000 - $10,000

REQUIREMENTS:

ACT: 26 - 29 GPA: 3.5 Must attend the Troy Campus

RENEWABLE ANNUALLY

AWARD: $1,000 - $2,000 REQUIREMENTS: ACT: 20 GPA: 3.0 Must be a Florida resident and attend the Troy Campus

SCHOLARS AWARD FOR INCOMING FRESHMEN AWARD: Paid tuition Full housing Meal plan REQUIREMENTS: ACT: 33 - 36 or RSAT: 1450 - 1600 GPA: 3.7

AWARD: Paid tuition Traditional housing

STU DY ABR OAD

CHANCELLOR'S AWARD FOR GLOBAL COMPETITIVENESS

REQUIREMENTS: ACT: 30 - 32 or RSAT: 1360 - 1440 GPA: 3.7

RENEWABLE EVERY 18 MONTHS

AWARD: $1,000 Provides students with incredible opportunities to travel and study around the globe.

TROJAN LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP

TRANSFER MERIT SCHOLARSHIP

4 CONSECUTIVE YEARS

2 CONSECUTIVE YEARS

AWARD:

AWARD:

$2,000 - $4,000

TROY LEGACY SCHOLARSHIP FOR 1 YEAR

$2,000

REQUIREMENTS:

REQUIREMENTS:

ACT: 20 - 25 GPA: 3.0 Must attend the Troy Campus

AWARD: $1,000 REQUIREMENTS: ACT: 20 GPA: 3.0 Must have a parent/ grandparent who is an alumnus and a member of the Troy University Alumni Association or a local alumni chapter Must attend the Troy Campus

CORPORATE PARTNERSHIP

ONLINE TRANSFER AWARD

45 transfer credit hours GPA: 3.0 Must be an Alabama resident Must attend one of TROY's Alabama locations in Troy, Montgomery, Dothan or Phenix City

2 CONSECUTIVE YEARS

AWARD:

10% tuition scholarship for any degree-seeking student that is an employee of a corporate partner of the University

AWARD:

$1,500 ($300 per term)

REQUIREMENTS:

24 transfer credit hours GPA: 3.0 Must be an online learner and a non-Alabama resident


TROY TODAY

FEAT U R E S TOR Y

20

MAK I N G HISTO RY

A l umna par t of pro basebal l ’s fi rst al l- female broadcast team

WRITTEN BY: GREG PHILLIPS

T

roy University alumna Melanie Newman made

none were female,” Newman said. “It really came down to the

baseball and broadcasting history recently when

last minute and came together. I don’t think we can ever fully

she became part of professional baseball’s first all-

grasp it because we’re on the inside. We’re just showing up

female broadcast team.

and doing our job. The real-world scope is that us doing that is

Newman, a Minor League Baseball play-by-play announcer,

changing things and setting a precedent for not just women but

called the Salem Red Sox’s road game against the Potomac

men and women to take hold of their day and do exactly what

Nationals with color analyst Suzie Cool.

they want to do for their careers.”

The 2013 TROY graduate had play-by-play experience with the

As for the future, while she knows they’ll part due to the nature

Trojan women’s volleyball team, then worked her way through a

of professional baseball, Newman hopes to get two seasons

variety of jobs in television and radio.

working alongside Cool.

“[While at TROY], I took an invitation and went out on a leap

“Baseball is such a fluid industry that it’s hard to say, but I would

of faith to try out sideline reporting for the Atlantic Sun

adore getting at least two seasons together,” she said. “(That

Conference, and at that time I wasn’t sure if live broadcasting

would) give us a chance to build it up, to build that relationship

was what I wanted to do,” said Newman, who majored in

with the fan base.”

broadcast journalism with minors in sports information and leadership studies. “I fell in love with it. Then it became about being as involved as I could while I was in school.” After she graduated, Newman landed with the Mobile Bay Bears where she did everything from graphics to arranging player appearances. She even played the mascot on occasion. This year, right before pitchers and catchers were set to report for spring training, she got the call that she’d be joining Salem, a Single A-Advanced affiliate of the Boston Red Sox based in Virginia, as their new play-by-play announcer. “From there, everything just really clicked,” Newman said. “Suzie and I have been friends through social media for some time now. There was still a little bit of nerves. She felt more okay going into the game, as did I, and she and I have this great friendship. Everything clicked on the air.” Newman said it still hasn’t sunk in that she’s part of such a historic event that could inspire people for years to come. “They had over 200 people apply when this position came open and

Melanie Newman makes play-by-play calls for the Salem Red Socks baseball team.


T ROY T O DAY

Melanie Newman, gives her autograph to a young Red Sox fan.

21


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TROY TODAY

F E AT UR E S TO RY

TROY'S CORPORATE PARTNERS

I

WRITTEN BY: LYNNE FIRMIN

t’s no surprise that Troy University is constantly seeking

program development. International learning partners allow

new partners in and around its communities to help

students to expand their knowledge and cultural experience.

facilitate the growth of the institution. The word “partner”

The list of partnerships that are vital to TROY’s success goes on

is limitless when it comes to University involvement.

and on.

However, when most of us think about University partners, we

Troy University’s Corporate Partnership Program, introduced

tend to think of partnering academically or financially. Donors

in 2013, has not always been in the partner spotlight, but it is an

are important partners as they provide financial support that

expanding opportunity for organizations to get involved with

helps worldwide growth. Sponsors are crucial partners in

TROY without a financial commitment. The program allows

supporting scholarships, research, equipment and academic

businesses, health systems, school districts, municipalities,


T ROY T O DAY

23

After speaking to the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce (VHCC), one of TROY’s newest corporate partners, Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr. (middle) stands with Vestavia Hills leaders including (from left): VHCC Board Chair Gary Jordan of Summit Franchising Group, VHCC President Karen Odle, city of Vestavia Hills Mayor Ashley Curry and VHCC Board Member Taylor Burton of Taylor Burton Company Inc. and professional associations to offer employees opportunities

highly collaborative and engaging relationships between the

for educational enhancement and career advancement at an

University and its corporate partners. One way TROY is doing

affordable rate. This program is unique in that its goal is to

this is by providing partners with additional resources that will

bring nontraditional students, often working adults, to

be relevant to their organizational success. “We are working

TROY to further their education. When an organization

to enhance benefits, build processes that allow more program

partners with TROY, the University offers a 10% tuition

customization to meet individual partner needs, enhance

scholarship to full-time employees who meet admissions

partner access to web resources and involve more on-campus

requirements. Participating organizations, in turn, collaborate

staff to allow more collaborative opportunities,” Hutto said.

with TROY by acting as an advocate or promoter of TROY and

Senior Vice Chancellor for Advancement and Economic

recruiting TROY students and recent grads for work experience

Development Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Walter Givhan has a strong

when possible.

vision for the program. “Our goal is to constantly engage and

Just as TROY needs external partners to create and fund new

reevaluate our partners’ needs so that we can equip them

programs, external organizations need TROY to be a learning

with the life-long training they need to boost performance

partner for their employees and/or members. “Working adults

and develop human capital. We also aim to get our partners

need some incentive, some push, to encourage them to start

involved with serving TROY students through their offerings

classes, whether they have finished their undergraduate degree

of internships, mentoring, advisory boards and other

and are going into a graduate degree or life happens and they

opportunities that will strengthen academic quality and career

had to pause their undergraduate classes and need to complete

development,” Givhan said.

them,” explained Staci Hutto, corporate partner coordinator

Associate Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management Buddy

for Troy University. The partnership program is meant to be

Starling believes the program is essential to recruiting adult

an opportunity for organizations to enhance their benefits

learners. “We want nontraditional students to trust that

packages and encourage employees to reach their educational

TROY has a program that will help them reach their goals and

goals through one of TROY’s many degree programs.

a learning format that fits their schedule. Strengthening the

TROY currently has 142 corporate partners located in various

workforce by equipping employees with one TROY degrees is a

parts of the country, including Georgia, Florida, Texas, South

big part of our mission,” Starling said.

Carolina, Alabama and more. Some partners are national

TROY’s corporate partnership program is a mutually beneficial

organizations that reach audiences throughout the entire

opportunity for just about any organization that is willing to

United States, like the U.S. Department of Health and Human

have a working relationship with the University. Engagement

Services (HHS), which employs over 79,000 people across the

from corporate partners allows a full circle of collaboration

country. Chambers of commerce are also common on the list of

that involves affordable professional development from

corporate partners, with two of the newest being the Vestavia

TROY degree programs, student and recent grad recruitment,

Hills Chamber and the Pike County Chamber.

mentorship from partners and an open door to future

Troy University staff has been working on improving the

joint endeavors.

Corporate Partnership Program in ways that will promote


24

TROY TODAY

F EAT UR E ST O R Y

30 YEARS OF

JACK HAWKINS, JR. WRITTEN BY: GREG PHILLIPS

PHOTOGRAPH BY: MARK MOSELEY


T ROY T O DAY

25

“If pressed to name one initiative of which I am most proud, it would have to be the internationalization of our University.” -Jack Hawkins, Jr.

T

he morning of Sept. 1, 1989, was a momentous one

veterans and creating study abroad opportunities. And there

at Troy University.

has been no better champion for the fine arts!”

For the first time in 25 years, a new Chancellor

The announcement that September morning in 1989 changed

had been named to lead the institution, following

the face of TROY and left an indelible impression in the minds

Dr. Ralph Adams’ retirement.

of those who were there, including students who would forge a

It was a time of uncertainty for TROY faculty and staff, who had

bond with Hawkins in subsequent years.

great respect for Adams and his decades of success.

“I remember thinking, ‘this is a big news story,’ and it was

But from the moment Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., walked onto

exciting that I’d get to help cover it,” said Darlene Hutchinson

campus that day 30 years ago and was named Adams’

Biehl, the current director of the U.S. Department of Justice’s

successor, those who met him knew the University they loved

Office for Victims of Crime, who was just weeks away from

was in good hands.

graduating with a print journalism degree. “I was interning at

“He was an impressive young man,” said Dr. Fred Davis, who was

WTBF radio, and the Board of Trustees was selecting the next

serving as TROY’s associate provost at the time of Hawkins’

University Chancellor—the person who would fill the shoes of

inauguration. “I didn’t know a lot about his background, and it

the legendary Dr. Ralph Adams. Being there was a big deal.”

really didn’t matter, but I found him to be quite impressive. He

After the announcement, she ran back to the station where the

looked presidential, and he had a vision.”

program manager, Joey Meredith, cut into programming so that

Hawkins’ experience serving as president of the Alabama

Biehl could make the announcement to WTBF listeners.

Institute for Deaf and Blind gave him experience in leadership

“I imagine they were the first to know the breaking news that

as well as a familiarity with the University.

Jack Hawkins would be Troy State’s next chancellor,” she said.

“I began visiting TROY regularly about seven years before

“What none of us knew then was the incredible transformation

I became Chancellor,” Hawkins recalled. “The Troy State

he would lead our university through in the three decades to

University Press was publishing the centennial history of AIDB,

come, or that he would elevate it to even higher levels. It was

which I was co-writing with a colleague named Bob Couch, so I was a regular visitor to Wallace Hall to work with the staff in Creative Services, most of whom worked here when I became Chancellor.” By the time he became Chancellor, Hawkins had long ago fallen in love with the Troy Campus. “I knew of the University, but I was not prepared for the simple beauty of the campus, the fine old buildings such as Bibb Graves Hall and the magnolias on the Shackelford Quad,” Hawkins said. “Most impressive was the newly constructed Sorrell Chapel. In fact, I was so inspired that we used the Sorrell Chapel as the model to construct the chapel at AIDB, which opened in 1985.” “I believed that my wife, Janice, and I could make a difference here,” Hawkins added. “And she has been a remarkable partner on this journey, championing initiatives as varied as the appearance of the campus, advocating on behalf of military

In 1989—the year the late Ralph Adams (right) passed his title of Chancellor to Jack Hawkins (left)—Alabama Gov. Guy Hunt (center) issued a challenge saying, “Alabama doesn’t need another regional university.” Through hard work and dedication, TROY is now known as Alabama’s International University.


26

TROY TODAY

The Sound of the South Marching Band honors Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. with an on-field tribute as performers spell out "Hawkins" during a halftime performance.

fabulous to be a witness to history that day—and in the 30

1990s, forging an internationally respected presence on the

years since. Since the summer of 1989, I’ve done some rather

World Wide Web.

cool things in my career, but not many exceed being first to

Hawkins also served as the catalyst for the University’s

report this exciting news.”

evolution into an international institution, as TROY has

Dr. Don Jeffrey, the current Senior Vice Chancellor of the

attracted record numbers of students from other nations

Dothan Campus, worked as an aquatics instructor for Adams

and established teaching sites around the world, alongside

from 1977 to 1989 when Hawkins became Chancellor. Since

international partnerships in countries such as Italy and China.

then, he’s had 14 different titles with the University and has

In the early 2000s, Hawkins spearheaded the University’s

forged a personal bond with Hawkins. “When I met him, I was

move to NCAA Division I-A athletics as well as the unification

impressed because he’d look you directly in your eyes,” Jeffrey

of the former Troy State University System into the modern

said. “You knew that he had a vision and the work ethic to

Troy University.

bring it to reality. I knew from the very first day I met him that

Those who remember Adams’ tenure say he and Hawkins

he would be a champion for our students, and that’s what he’s

worked differently, but both shared a love of TROY and a

been for three decades and counting.”

relentless work ethic.

Board of Trustees member Gibson Vance, a 1987 alumnus, also

“They were quite different, but you have to give credit to both

remembers the first time he met the new Chancellor.

men,” Davis said. “Dr. Adams came here and TROY had its origin

“I remember vividly. I was at my fraternity house visiting a

as a normal school, so he found a sleepy teacher’s college and

couple years [after the inauguration], and he came to the

had the vision of moving it forward, and he did, in his own way.

fraternity house to meet the students,” Vance said. “This guy

When Chancellor Hawkins came in, he took what he saw and

walks into the house and looks like he’s from Hollywood—the

built that momentum in dramatic fashion.”

perfect president of a university. I was impressed with him from

For the students Hawkins championed throughout the

the first moment I met him.”

years who have gone on to success after college, he remains

Despite the optimism, few could have predicted Hawkins’

a source of inspiration, and his influence has spread beyond

tenure would outlast his predecessor’s or have such an impact

TROY’s campuses and teaching sites into the surrounding

on the University during the course of 30-plus years.

communities.

Under his leadership, TROY (then Troy State) became an

“I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for everything he’s done

innovator in the realm of online education beginning in the

for the University,” said alum Jeff Coleman, CEO of Coleman


T ROY T O DAY

Chancellor Hawkins celebrates TROY's first New Orleans Bowl win in 2006 after the Men of TROY defeated Rice 41-17.

27


28

TROY TODAY

World Group, who graduated from the Dothan Campus in 1995

“I can’t tell you how proud I am of how the campuses look

and was named Alumni of the Year in 2003. “Everything he puts

today, and a lot of that you see today really is the vision

his hand on is first-class, from the buildings he’s built

Chancellor Hawkins had when he came here in 1989,”

to the people he’s reached. The biggest thing is just the

Davis said.

students he’s touched that have gone out in the world with

From the onset of his tenure, Hawkins saw the University’s

that Trojan Warrior Spirit. That has made a difference in

potential. “I knew we had great potential to grow if we

thousands and thousands of lives—great leaders making a

embraced the idea that we could be more than we had been,”

difference in their communities.”

Hawkins said. “In my inaugural remarks, I said, ‘In 2000, no

For the Chancellor, those lives define his legacy more than any

longer will we classify ourselves simply as a regional university.

of his other accomplishments.

We are worldwide in our outreach, and we are becoming

“I believe the only meaningful legacy for any university

international in our perspective.’ That was the vision then, and

president or chancellor is the success of our alumni, which is

today, it remains a cornerstone value that I believe is embraced

the best barometer of success for any university,” he said. “The

not only by our leadership, but by our faculty, staff, students

For decades, Chancellor Hawkins has warmly welcomed students from around the globe as they pursue academic opportunities at Troy University.

Hawkins' daughters, Kelly (Godwin) and Katie (Beall), unveil the portrait of their father during his induction ceremony on Sept. 1, 1989.

great thing about a career in higher education—no matter what

and alumni. As it so often does, vision drives growth, and I

your position—is your work can have a ripple effect that spans

believe that has been the case at Troy University.”

generations. We don’t make widgets; we educate students,

Members of the Board of Trustees have had a firsthand look at

and, in the process, we shape value systems. We can help our

the Chancellor executing that vision.

students achieve great things in their chosen fields, be good

“The number one reason why TROY has had unprecedented

citizens and be leaders in their communities. That’s a legacy

growth by any objective metric is the fact we’ve had the same

everyone who works at TROY can embrace.” Hawkins’ influence

great leader the entire time,” Vance said. “I’ve never seen

can also be seen in the development of numerous facilities

anybody who can combine form and substance as well as

that have modernized and improved life at Troy University—an

Jack Hawkins. As a board member, it’s been a great learning

investment of almost $400 million.

experience for me, having a front-seat view of his leadership

Rushing Hall, Claudia Crosby Theater, Patterson Hall, Hawkins

ability. He’s a pleasure to work with, keeps the Board of

Hall and the Trojan Arena in Troy; Everett Hall in Dothan; Rosa

Trustees well informed of what’s going on at the University, and

Parks Library and Museum in Montgomery and Phenix City

we know his word is his bond.”

Riverfront Campus are just some of the buildings constructed

Longtime friend and Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange hasn’t

during Hawkins’ tenure at TROY.

been surprised by Hawkins’ success. “My first encounter with


T ROY T O DAY

29

Jack was in 1958 in junior high school in Mobile, and even at

International University, even though the odds were stacked

our young age, I knew Jack Hawkins would make a difference

against us. I have used the analogy of the bumblebee:

in the lives he touched,” Strange said. “His life’s work has been

Aerodynamically, the bee should not be able to fly—its wings

the epitome of servant leadership, culminating in 30 years of

are too short, its body too big. On the surface, TROY should not

leading and growing Troy University. The quantity and quality

have become Alabama’s International University, but it has. We

of his contributions will be long-lasting. I count it an honor and

are located in rural southeast Alabama, far from the preferred

a blessing to call him friend and brother.”

areas of the West Coast and the major cities. We believe the

When looking back at his 30-year tenure, Hawkins is proud of

key to success has been a commitment to produce globally

many things the University has accomplished, but one stands

competitive students in a beautiful setting and within a culture

out above the rest.

of caring.”

“If pressed to name one initiative of which I am most proud, it

Recent projects like Coleman Hall in Dothan, the Trojan

would have to be the internationalization of our University,”

Fitness Center in Troy and TROY’s burgeoning international

he said. “Over the last 30 years, we have gone from enrolling

partnership with the University of Pisa indicate that Hawkins’

40 students from 13 nations outside the U.S. to enrolling

work for the University isn’t slowing down as it approaches its

students from 80 nations speaking 85 languages. Further, this

fourth decade.

past year, we sent more than 50 study-abroad delegations

“It’s been a tremendous run, but the race is not over, and I truly

to 34 countries. We have enjoyed success in places like

believe what Dr. Hawkins says, that the best is still yet to come,”

Vietnam, where we became the first U.S. university to award

Jeffrey said.

the baccalaureate degree. We have become Alabama’s

Former Alabama Gov. Bob Riley (left) and late TROY Trustee and alumnus Doug Hawkins (right) award Chancellor Hawkins with a special medallion.

“It’s been a tremendous run, but the race is not over, and I truly believe what Dr. Hawkins says, that the best is still yet to come.” - Dr. Don Jeffrey


TROY TODAY

FEATU R E S TOR Y

30

HALF A CENTURY OF BSN WRITTEN BY: ANDY ELLIS PHOTOGRAPH BY: MARK MOSELEY

F

or the last five decades and counting, Troy University

a nationally respected school that produces successful

has educated, molded and empowered nursing

professionals every year.

professionals through its Bachelor of Science in

“They paved the way for future graduates,” Forehand said.

Nursing (BSN) program.

“They went out into the world and set the standard for what

This semester is a landmark one for TROY’s School of Nursing:

being a TROY graduate means. They built our reputation.

the 50th group of nursing students is enrolled and taking classes.

Certainly there were adjustments made on what they learned

“It means that we have been a strong member of the community

as they went through. It allowed us to know what worked, how

for the last 50 years,” said Dr. Wade Forehand, director of the

we could improve things and what facilities we need.”

School of Nursing. “We have supplied quality, prepared nurses

The University’s BSN program has been continuously

who are able to meet the healthcare needs not just in our local

accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in

area, but across the nation as well.”

Nursing (formerly the National League for Nursing Accrediting

The Alabama Legislature passed a resolution establishing the

Commission) since 1974, and its success has helped pave the

University’s School of Nursing in 1969, with the first class of

way for TROY’s School of Nursing to continue to add academic

BSN students enrolling that fall and graduating in 1973.

programs through the years.

That initial group built the foundations of what has become


Today, the School of Nursing provides students with

he said. “Our faculty are here countless hours. We prepare

opportunities to earn their associate, bachelor’s and master’s in

students, as opposed to just giving them information. We make

nursing and their Doctor of Nursing Practice.

sure they’re taking in that information so that when they finish

The school has seen its scope expand to all four Alabama

our program they’re successful.”

campuses and online, including the BSN program coming to the

Appropriately, the school has some major events planned

Dothan Campus in 2016.

during the fall to celebrate its history, including an open house

“From the beginning to now, our focus on students, our focus

and celebration, complete with a new baby simulator gender

on patient safety, our focus on best practices—those things are

and name reveal, held on Sept. 12 (page 64), a Homecoming

the mainstays,” Forehand said. “Technology, things we’ve done

celebration on Nov. 9 and the creation of a special 50th

to improve patient care, looking at evidence better than we

anniversary commemorative pin.

have in the past, those are all things that have been built and

Forehand said the school welcomes alumni to visit and interact

developed to bring the curriculum to where we’re at today.”

with the current class of students.

Many of the faculty members in the school today are graduates

“We’re always excited for alumni to visit, walk the halls with us,

of the program, including Forehand, who completed his BSN at

give guest lectures, anything of the sort,” he said. “We have lots

TROY in 2005.

of graduates and alumni who are in the community working in

“We have an excellent group of faculty members that care

healthcare who come to recruit students for their hospitals. It’s

about the students and who want students to be successful,”

always neat to see the alumni coming back and contributing.”


For almost 80 years, PowerSouth Energy Cooperative has played a major role in providing power to people and businesses across the state of Alabama and within the northwest region of Florida. Now, PowerSouth and its CEO, Gary Smith, are providing the power of support to Troy University in the form of a generous donation for the TROY IDEA Bank. An initiative of TROY’s Sorrell College of Business , the IDEA Bank will help cultivate and support student entrepreneurs who will launch business ventures in collaboration with faculty, fellow students and mentors from the community. “Hopefully, the IDEA Bank will jump-start some young

D ON O R S / G I V ING

POWERSOUTH INVESTS IN THE IDEA BANK

careers and some businesses in our area—that’s the hope. This is not a gift as much as it’s an investment,” Smith said. “We are so appreciative of Gary Smith’s leadership at PowerSouth and the investment they are making in Troy University that will benefit our faculty, staff and students who are collaborating to bring new ideas into the marketplace,” said Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr. “PowerSouth is so important to the future of our region, and we are grateful to have this influential company as a partner with us in this new endeavor at TROY.”


TROJAN WA R R I O R S

PAY I T FORWA R D For more than a century, TROY alumni and friends have helped provide opportunities and lessons to those following in their footsteps. Today, you are a part of that legacy. You know better than anyone that TROY is a top-notch University guiding students to achievement; it’s an institution with a rich history of success. By investing in TROY, your gift will inspire students to find their Trojan Warrior Spirit and do more than they ever thought possible. You can begin your TROY legacy today by: · Donating to TROY’s Annual Fund Campaign · Creating or donating to a much-needed student scholarship · Supporting academic programs · Supporting our fabulous Trojan athletic programs · Establishing a planned gift · Purchasing a Fraternity, Rosa Parks or Graduate Walk of Honor Brick · Joining or renewing your Alumni Membership · and more © 2019 Troy University

Feel it at troy.edu/donors 334-670-3608

Founded in 1887


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TROY TODAY

D ONO RS / G IVING

TR OJA N S P OT LIGHT: " T R OY BO B" B U T T ERWO RTH Bob Butterworth, known as “Troy Bob” among the alumni community, has been an avid donor and supporter of Troy University for many years, but if you ask him, it’s the least he could do. “The way I look at it, I owe TROY something because of what they did for me,” he said. Butterworth is a 1971 graduate and a former Trojan football player. Recognized as an Alumnus of the Year in 1997, Butterworth has served on the TROY Athletics Hall of Fame committee and as a member of the Alumni Association Board of Directors. He credits his desire to give back to TROY to the lifelong lessons he learned as a student. “The things I learned at TROY, I am still using today in my business,” Butterworth said. “The things that Coach [Billy] Atkins taught us about teamwork, sacrifice, setting goals and having a scoreboard each day—I still use those lessons

Alumnus Bob Butterworth has made several planned gifts to support TROY and endow scholarships.

each day.” Butterworth was born in the small Alabama community of Waldo near Talladega. He said he was originally recruited to play football at the University of Georgia, but soon found he didn’t enjoy the massive classes at such a large school.

legacy gift to establish the Robert Butterworth Endowed

He soon transferred to TROY, where he said he enjoyed the

Scholarship in the Sorrell College of Business, which will

small-town feel and the close relationships he was able to form

benefit students from Shelby County majoring in risk

with both professors and coaches.

management and Insurance.

“The small classes and the intimacy of the experience is really

Rebecca Watson, Associate Vice Chancellor for Development,

what sets TROY apart,” Butterworth said.

said Butterworth has been an exemplary example of generosity

Butterworth has used the lessons he learned as a student to

and school pride. “Bob Butterworth is a loyal Trojan whose

build a successful 42-year career with State Farm, with an office

generous gifts will ensure future generations of Trojans

in Montevallo, Alabama. In turn, he has given back to TROY in a

experience the same life-changing experiences he had while a

number of ways that will benefit future generations of Trojans.

student here,” Watson said.

His charitable gifts to TROY include the Carole Butterworth

Today, the Butterworth legacy at TROY will continue as

Endowed Scholarship, named in honor of his late wife, to

Butterworth’s grandson, Richie Kole Keith, started at TROY

support education majors from Shelby County and a planned

this fall. “I am proud to give back and support TROY and leave a

gift to support the football stadium north end zone expansion.

legacy for me and my family into the future,” Butterworth said.

Butterworth has recently decided to make another generous


T ROY T O DAY

35

D ON O R S / G I VING

Newly inducted Shield Society members pose with Shield Society officers and University administration. New inductees include (from left) Ms. Rebecca V. Watson, Mr. Malcolm McSwean, Mr. Bob Butterworth, Mr. Gerrell L. Debardelaben, Mr. and Mrs. Lewis (Sue) Rushing, Mr. Bobby Ross Phillips and Colonel and Mrs. John T. (Susan) Mizelle, not pictured: Dr. Barbara Toner.

NEW MEMBERS INDUCTED INTO TROY SHIELD SOCIETY

The newest members of the Troy University Shield Society

Legacy gifts can take a number of different forms—cash,

were inducted on Aug. 1 during a banquet at the Marriott

appreciated securities, wills and living trusts, retirement plan

Prattville Hotel and Conference Center at Capitol Hill.

assets, life insurance policies, real estate and tangible personal

Established in 2007, the TROY Shield Society pays tribute to

property. Legacy gifts help TROY to continue to make a

donors who remember the University through legacy gifts.

difference in the lives of students for generations to come.

“The Shield Society recognizes outstanding individuals who

For many, legacy gifts provide a way to give back to the

demonstrate their devotion to Troy University through legacy

University for the impact it has had in their lives.

gifts,” said Rebecca Watson, Associate Vice Chancellor for

“I just wanted to do something to repay the University for the

Development. “These gifts will help to ensure that the

major impact it has had on my life,” said Shield Society inductee

success enjoyed by Troy University today will continue well

Malcolm McSwean, who is disabilities services coordinator for

into the future.”

TROY’s Online Student Services. “My time here as a student is

The induction ceremony was conducted by Maj. Gen.

full of the best memories I could have, and I have friends to this

Walter Givhan, USAF, Retired, Senior Vice Chancellor for

day who graduated from here or are current students.”

Advancement and Economic Development, Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor, Dr. Earl Johnson, President of the TROY Shield Society and Mrs. Mary Ida Williams, Chair of the Legacy Giving Council. Inductees received a medallion and a lapel pin in the shape of a shield.


DONOR S / GIV IN G

36

TROY TODAY

BCBS OF ALABAMA PARTNERS WITH TROY’S COLEMAN CENTER WRITTEN BY: EMILY PRICE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: MARK MOSELEY

From left: Manager of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama’s Caring Foundation and Corporate Giving Tim King and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama’s Vice President of Corporate Communication and Community Relations Koko Mackin, TROY Associate Vice Chancellor of Development Rebecca Watson and Senior Vice Chancellor for Advancement and Economic Development Walter Givhan. For more than 83 years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama

to partner with TROY in serving families of the Wiregrass

has sought to provide Alabamians with quality, affordable

area was an easy one to make. “The Center fits so well with

health care options. Through a generous gift from The Caring

our mission regarding the health, wellness and education of

Foundation of BCBS of Alabama, that mission continues

Alabamians,” he said. “We’re thankful to help provide a first-

through the company’s support for TROY’s Coleman Center

class center like this for families and children. The Coleman

for Early Learning and Family Enrichment. Located within

Center will provide healthy options for families and further

TROY’s newly constructed Coleman Hall on the Dothan

children’s educations in order to help them grow up to be

Campus, the Coleman Center’s purpose is to provide new

productive citizens. In our world, education and wellness go

academic and medical opportunities and resources to low

hand-in-hand.”

income Wiregrass families.

Complete with classrooms serving children from birth to five

“Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama is a household name

years of age, high-quality play and enrichment areas, a gross

throughout the state of Alabama, and we are very proud to

motor skills room—named in honor of Blue Cross and Blue

have the company partnering with Troy University and the

Shield of Alabama—and two medical examination rooms, the

Coleman Center to make a difference in the educational, health

Center helps prepare children to thrive academically, physically

and social service needs of families in the Dothan area,” said

and socially by the time they enter kindergarten.

Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr. “Partnerships like this are making

According to Dr. Denise Green, Dean of the College of Health

a difference in the kind of services that TROY and the Coleman

and Human Services, there are three arms that make up the

Center can provide for our area. We are deeply appreciative of

Coleman Center: the lab school, family support offerings and

their gift of support and their commitment to bettering the lives

Wiregrass community outreach opportunities.

of all Alabamians.”

“The College of Health and Human Services and the College of

Tim King, Manager of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama’s

Education will reach out to the community and train, teach and

The Caring Foundation and Corporate Giving, said the decision

help provide progressive and real-time information to families


T ROY T O DAY

37

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama’s Caring Foundation and Corporate Giving representatives listen as Coleman Center Director Nancy Mitta, right, shares her excitement for the Center's grand opening.

of the children enrolled within the Center,” Green said. “The

practices and provide them with mentorship in working with

Wiregrass community outreach portion of our mission will be

children of that age.

our extension to the community to help their families thrive. It

“Not only will our students and faculty benefit from it, but also

will be providing information to the community to help better

the young minds who will be learning in the classroom will

serve their children and families. … The Center will create a

benefit from it as well,” she added. “We’re creating a wrap-

lifetime of tools, and that is the lifeblood of a community. It’s

around service environment where families will have access

the ability to thrive from one generation to another. … This is

to resources that will help equip them mentally, socially and

where academics and practicality meet; It’s where theory hits

educationally. … I hope that we make a significant impact on the

the pavement, and there are rare instances within our lives

educational achievement levels of the children who participate

when this happens.”

in the programming we provide within the Center. I’m excited

Green said she’s excited for students within her College to have

that we have the opportunity to track them as they grow and

the chance to work with Coleman Center professionals. “All

see them be academically successful as they move through the

of our students must complete internships and practicums,”

educational system.”

she said. “The Center will provide them with real, cutting-edge

Koko Mackin, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama’s Vice

opportunities and experiences.”

President of Corporate Communications and Community

Thanks to the support of donors such as Blue Cross and Blue

Relations, said she was excited that Blue Cross could help

Shield of Alabama students within the College of Health and

provide a much-needed service to families within the Wiregrass

Human Services are gaining experience working alongside

area. “We were honored to have an opportunity to play a

seasoned nurse practitioners, social workers and other

small part in this facility,” Mackin said. “The development of

healthcare professionals, and College of Education students are

a child from birth to age five is so critical, and this facility will

working side-by-side with experienced educators within the

be meeting a lot of needs of those families and those young

Center’s learning labs and play areas. “Our students are gaining

children. It’s building up families. It’s making sure that children

hands-on, real-world access to early learning classrooms,” said

are ready for school when they’re five. … If a child is not healthy,

Dr. Dionne Rosser-Mims, Dean of TROY’s College of Education.

they can’t learn. It’s all intertwined. We saw this as a great

“Our faculty members also have opportunities to do real-time

opportunity to support Troy University and its faculty, staff and

teaching with our students and show them the best educational

students, as well as to support the Dothan area and children and their families in the Wiregrass area of the state.”


38

TROY TODAY

AT H LE T I CS

CULTURE ON THE COURT: WOMEN’S BASKETBALL TOURS EUROPE


Members of TROY's women's basketball team represent their University as they pose outside of the Louvre Museum during their tour of Paris, France.

With hearts full of hope, excitement and wonder, the TROY

college players and even an Olympian. They exposed us a little

women’s basketball team went on a life-changing trip this

in the first game, but the lessons we learned were tremendous.

summer as the Trojans spent 10 days in France and Spain. The

You could see in our game against the Barcelona All-Stars that

Trojans spent the first three days of their trip in Paris before

our players made the adjustments within our new defense, and

flying to Spain to play a pair of games and soak in the rich

we won the game.”

culture that the country had to offer.

Among the many awe-inspiring moments on the trip, two that

“We are more educated for being on the trip,” head coach

stuck out in the mind of Rigby and her players came while

Chanda Rigby said. “For us to be able to take our players on an

they were in Barcelona. On TROY’s seventh day away from

international trip and experience other cultures, it allows them

home, the Trojans boarded a catamaran boat and sailed into

a broader base to build their future educations on.”

the Mediterranean Sea. Following a 50-minute ride, the boat

Following a travel day that included an eight-hour flight from

anchored, and the team jumped into the picturesque dark

Atlanta to Paris, the Trojans went straight into tourist mode

blue water. “I thought eating on a boat was for rich people,”

with visits to the Eiffel Tower, Sacre Coeur, Moulin Rouge and

junior Alexus Dye said in a letter she wrote following the trip.

the Opera District. On the second day in Paris, the team toured

“We were rich that day.”

Sainte-Chapelle, which once held an extensive collection of

On TROY’s final night in Spain, the team was treated to

relics including the crown of thorns worn by Jesus. It’s walls and

an authentic Spanish dinner complete with flamenco

ceiling are one of the most extensive stained glass collections

dancing that the players took part in. “I am so thankful that

in the world. Following the amazing two days in Paris that

Dr. (Jack) Hawkins understands the value of the international

included a trip to the Arc de Triumphe and the Louvre, the

experience,” Rigby said. “He was so encouraging in the process

Trojans traveled to Spain to experience more culture and finally

of arranging this trip to bring our student-athletes oversees so

play some basketball.

they could immerse themselves in those experiences. We are

One of the added benefits to taking an international trip—an

so blessed that the University made the financial commitment

opportunity the NCAA allows every four years—is that teams

for this trip; it is one that we will never be able to repay, but our

are granted 10 additional practice days before the trip. Rigby

student-athletes will benefit from it the rest of their lives.

and her coaching staff used these sessions to install some

“We will forever have broader perspectives,” Rigby added.

changes to TROY’s defensive game plan for the season.

“Those perspectives will enable us to make more informed life

“Being able to get those extra practices in and then play against

choices, as well as give us the ability to dream bigger and see

two very talented teams was very valuable,” Rigby said. “The

life through a broader, more beautiful lens.”

Madrid All-Stars had a lot of professional players, former


40

ON THE HOME TURF TROY TODAY

The playing surface at Troy University’s Veterans Memorial Stadium was replaced this summer with stateof-the-art Matrix Helix Realfill. Installed by the same company that did projects for the Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Rams and Houston Texans, the new turf features striking Cardinal end zones for the first time since 2011. With the new turf, TROY becomes the only Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) school in the country to have an emoji on their field. The sword emoji, which TROY has incorporated into its social media, will mark the kickoff locations at each 35-yard line. The design also features the Power T logo at midfield and alternating shades of green every five yards.

AT H LE T I CS

TROY NIGHT Troy University and TROY Athletics took over Riverwalk Stadium in Montgomery for TROY Night with the Biscuits on Aug. 3. The evening started with a pregame party in the Club Car Bar with special guests Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr., Athletics Director Brent Jones and Head Men’s Basketball Coach Scott Cross. T-Roy threw out the first pitch before the game, and Sun Belt Softball Freshman of the Year Leanna Johnson was honored during the game. Trojan fans, once again, proved why they are the best in the state as Riverwalk Stadium was painted cardinal for the night.


Adarius W. | Psychology

START A STUDENT, LEAVE A LEADER. Troy University offers students more than an education, it provides a community that transforms students into leaders. At TROY, we do more than teach what you need to know to graduate. We teach what you are capable of, and we’re with you all the way.

Learn more at troy.edu/oneandall or call 1-800-586-9771. “From The Princeton Review. © 2020 TPR Education. All rights reserved. Used under license.”

©2019 Troy University


AT H LE TICS

42

TROY TODAY

TROY BASKETBALL

PREPARES FOR NEW SEASON

With returning experienced ball players joined by talented freshmen recruits, TROY's men's and women's basketball teams are looking forward to their 2019-20 seasons.

The TROY Trojans basketball programs both look to return to

program. Throughout her time at TROY, Rigby has been the

the NCAA Tournament in 2019-20 under the direction of new

architect of the Sun Belt Conference’s top offense due to her

men’s basketball head coach Scott Cross and established coach

uncanny ability to recruit to her offensive system. This season

Chanda Rigby. No stranger to the Sun Belt Conference, Cross

however, it’s the other side of the ball that coach Rigby is

returns to the SBC after spending a season as the associate

focusing on.

head coach of the TCU Horned Frogs under head coach Jamie

“Our assistants have made some adjustments to our defensive

Dixon. The 2017 Sun Belt Coach of the Year, Cross spent 12

scheme,” the head coach said. “I think the way we’re coaching it

seasons at UT Arlington averaging 19 wins per season.

and scheming will allow for us to make less mistakes on defense.

A 21-year coaching veteran, Cross was named head coach of

I’m really proud with how our kids have adapted to the system

the Trojans on March 26, 2019. Since his appointment, the

and how our coaches are teaching it.”

Texan has been busy reshaping the 2019-20 roster, adding four

The first true test for the new scheme will be Nov. 5 when Fort

junior college transfers and two high school graduates.

Valley visits Trojan Arena for the season opener. The 2019-20

“Our guys are working extremely hard, and it seems like we

schedule continues with non-conference matchups against

have good cohesiveness,” Cross said. “I think we’re an athletic

Jacksonville State, East Tennessee State, Duke and Mississippi

basketball team that can be really good defensively when we’re

State. The Trojans’ final tune-up before Sun Belt Conference

all on the same page. We’ll be able to play quick on offense,

play will occur just before Christmas when TROY heads to Sin

which should make us an exciting team to watch. When we

City for a pair of games against Toledo and Kent State.

looked to change the roster, we looked for guys that were quick,

Season tickets for the entire 28-game Trojan home slate are

athletic and could shoot the ball."

on sale now and can be purchased by visiting the TROY Ticket

One of the best offensive minds in the country, Rigby enters her

Office in Trojan Arena, or by calling 877-878-WINS (9467).

eighth season as the head coach of TROY’s women’s basketball


T ROY T O DAY

43

AT H LE T I CS

THE FIELD GENERAL

TROY quarterback Kaleb Barker stands with Howard University quarterback Caylin Newton

The most recognized player on the field and the most

I don’t think I will walk by somebody in uniform and not shake

scrutinized position in the game of football, the quarterback,

their hand and thank them.”

otherwise known as the field general, is the assumed leader of

Now in his second year as TROY’s starting quarterback, the

every football team.

path to the top hasn’t been an easy one for the 6-foot-1 Barker.

TROY’s field general, senior Kaleb Barker, spent several days

He twice tore his ACL while at Priceville High School and

in late July on the West Coast at the Coronado Naval Base for

then again last year in the midst of a record-setting campaign.

Commander Camp. Barker, along with 13 other quarterbacks

However, he came back from his experience in Coronado with a

from across the country, flew in on a C-2 to the USS Nimitz

new perspective on life.

where they immersed themselves in the military lifestyle.

“My mindset on daily life changed,” Barker said. “It changed

“It was a great experience for me to be around our military,”

my perspective that the small things don’t matter, it’s the big

Barker said. “I got to see how those guys function on a daily

scheme of things that does.”

basis. I got to stay on the USS Nimitz, see how the commanders

“Being older, going on this trip helped me realize the position

and how the high enforcers work and how everybody on the

I’m in, and I’m truly blessed to be here,” Barker said. “I’m not

ship works together.”

going to take a day for granted. When I wake up, I’m going to be

Barker and his peers were thrown straight into the fire as they

the best person and best teammate I can be.”

spent the night on the USS Nimitz, one deck below where a

The biggest takeaway for Barker came on his visit with the

group of young pilots were flying off and on the ship until 4 a.m.

Navy SEALs and, for the lack of a better expression, it slapped

The trip was inspirational for Barker both because of who

him in the face right when he walked through the doors.

he met while at the Naval Base, but also because of a leader

“When you first walk in the building it says ’Abandon Self and

back home.

Embrace Team’ and that opened my eyes,” Barker said. “It is not

“I had lunch with Chancellor Hawkins before I went,” Barker

like football and you get to play another game, you might not

said. “He gave me some great insight of what I might see

come home from those tours. I’ve come back with the attitude

because he was at Coronado for two years. I have so much

of putting the team in front of myself, and I think I can pass that

respect for Dr. Hawkins after my trip and for the whole military.

along to the guys on the team.


44

TROY TODAY

S T UD E N T S

SUMMER SPECTACULAR HELP PREPARE EDUCATION MAJORS

Every year, Summer Spectacular welcomes students ages 4-12 to the Dothan Campus where they learn STEAM skills with the guidance of TROY students and faculty.

An annual summer program at Troy University’s Dothan

show their parents and display them around the classroom.”

Campus not only provided learning opportunities and fun

Rosa, who participated in the program for the second time, led

for Wiregrass area children, but also equipped College of

this year’s Summer Spectacular.

Education students with skills and experiences that will benefit

“Being in charge of Summer Spectacular was very helpful,” she

them in the future in their own classrooms.

said. “It helped me to observe children of all ages in one setting,

In its 26th year, the Summer Spectacular program gives

learn more about the constructivist approach to teaching, and

Wiregrass children ages 4 to 12 a chance for summer fun while

one day, I’ll be able to use that hands-on learning approach in

they learn about science, technology, engineering, art and math.

my own classroom.”

Summer Spectacular is a project-based learning program where

While the activities are led by the children, who choose their

students are involved in hands-on learning. This year’s theme

materials and come up with ideas, the teachers gain experience

was “STEAM: Building a Solid Future,” and three different

organizing classrooms and encouraging student development.

classrooms were set up for different activities and projects.

“I hope I take away some really great classroom management

The experience not only benefits area school children, but also

skills,” said Ali Wozniak, a senior early childhood education

the TROY students who organized, led and taught the sessions

major, who served as a teacher leader at Summer Spectacular.

during the four-week program.

“It gets a little crazy, and the kids can be rambunctious, but

“There were hands-on activities each day, and we had different

they are so much fun. We have to keep them on task. When the

activities the first and second week,” said Erin Rosa, a senior

children tell you they’re going home and sharing things with

majoring in early childhood education at the Dothan Campus.

other people, it makes you excited that you’ve impacted them in

“It’s really a chance for kids to make crafts, take them home,

such a way.”


S TU D E N T S

T ROY T O DAY

45

MAKING THE CONNECTION STUDY ABROAD TRIP SPOTLIGHTS CONTRIBUTIONS OF ITALIAN MATHEMATICS, SCIENTISTS

As part of the Department of Mathematics’ inaugural study

Trips to Florence, Pisa and Padua provided students the

abroad program, 14 students traveled to Italy during the spring

opportunity to climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome in

semester to gain an understanding and appreciation for the

the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, view Michelangelo’s

enormous contributions of Italian mathematicians, engineers

“David,” tour the Galileo Museum and visit the Leaning Tower of

and scientists.

Pisa, the Ufitzi Museum and the Basilica di Santa Croce and the

The students visited Rome, Florence, Pisa, Padua and Venice to

Pisa Cathedral.

experience the cities that nurtured the mathematical genius on

While in Venice, students toured Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s

display, from the ancient structures of the Romans to the classic

Basilica, rode a vaporetto to explore the Grand Canal and the

works of art and architecture from the Italian Renaissance.

island of Murano, and went to the top of the bell tower in St.

In Rome, students explored the Colosseum and the Pantheon

Mark’s Square.

and examined original drawings by Leonardo da Vinci. They

The customized program gave students not only an opportunity

were able to walk through the ancient Roman Forum, climb to

to see all the major attractions in these Italian cities, but to

the top of Castel Sant’Angelo, visit Trevi Fountain and Bernini’s

experience the culture as they walked through neighborhoods,

Fountain of Four Rivers, tour the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s

used public transportation, traveled on regional trains and

Basilica and colonnade and the Vatican Museum’s collection.

enjoyed Italian food.

WHALEY CONSTRUCTION CO., INC.

"Helping TROY grow since 1931"


46

TROY TODAY

ST UD E N T S

S OU ND O F SU CC E S S

A Troy University student did his part this summer to make Disneyland the happiest place on Earth. Landon Grigsby, a music education major and trumpeter, was one of 21 college students to perform in the Disneyland Resort All-American College Band. The band, a tradition at the park since 1971, gives top college musicians a chance to learn about the entertainment industry first-hand through clinics with world-renowned artists and daily performances at Disneyland in Anaheim, California. “I feel more confident in my career choice in being a musician,” Grigsby said. “I want to be a studio musician here in L.A. It’s been shown to me that anybody can do anything if you try hard enough. Eventually, opportunity will come.”

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S TU D E N T S

T ROY T O DAY

47

INTO THE BLUE Air Force ROTC Cadet Colonel Savannah Farris had the chance to earn her private wings thanks to winning a scholarship.

For one Troy University Air Force ROTC cadet, “off we go into

A ‘rated career’ in the Air Force includes pilot, combat system

the wild blue yonder” took on a literal meaning this summer.

officer, drone pilots and air battle managers. Not only do cadets

Cadet Colonel Savannah Farris, a senior rehabilitation and

have to meet the same requirements as any other officer job,

disabilities studies major from Killen, Alabama and recently

but they also have to score well on the rated portions of the Air

appointed cadet wing commander for Detachment 017, took

Force Officer Qualification test.

to the skies as one of just 47 cadets selected nationwide for the

Farris said she was grateful for the opportunity to participate in

Aviation Experience Scholarship. The fully-funded scholarship

the experience this summer and credited her family, as well as

allowed Farris to attend an 8-week aviation program at Liberty

fellow cadets in the detachment, for giving her the confidence

University to earn a Federal Aviation Administration Private

necessary to succeed. “I am so thankful and excited to be

Pilot Certificate, June 3 – July 27.

granted the opportunity to attain my private pilot license,”

Typically, earning the private pilot rating can cost $9,000 or

Farris said. “This opportunity—the challenges faced and

more, and the scholarship covered the costs, plus lodging

lessons learned—will open so many doors, both personally and

and three meals per day. “Training like this isn’t cheap, and to

professionally. I have a great support system with my family at

have one of Det. 17’s cadets compete and get selected for this

home and at the detachment, and that gave me the confidence

opportunity shows the caliber of cadets we have in our

and desire to make the best of the program.”

program at Troy University,” said Lt. Col. Stephen Cox, the

TROY’s Det. 17 has 42 cadets, seven of whom attended special

Detachment’s commander and professor of aerospace studies.

professional development training opportunities this summer.

“Opportunities like this allow Cadet Farris and other cadets

The detachment graduated and commissioned five seniors as

to get exposure and gain education in aviation careers in the

second lieutenants during the spring commencement ceremony

Air Force, and getting ‘stick time’ in an aircraft increases their

in May on the Troy Campus.

knowledge base and has a proven effect on their ability to compete for rated careers.”


48

TROY TODAY

P E R S PE CT I V E S

WRITTEN & PHOTOGRAPHY BY: ANNA SHAY WASDEN


Study abroad students Anna Shay Wasden (left) and Kayla Chandler (right) take in the sights, sounds and culture within Pietrasanta, Italy.

When one thinks of traveling to Italy, one typically envisions the

Located in the Tuscan region, Pietrasanta is tucked between

big cities and all they have to offer: colorful clusters of homes

majestic mountains and the serene Mediterranean Sea. It’s

in Cinque Terre, historical sites in Rome, gondolas cruising in

home to all the amenities of a larger city while retaining its

Venice, bustling fashion shows in Milan. But, anyone who has

small-town feel. Whether enjoying the cabanas lining the

wandered upon a bloom of jasmine on an abandoned street or

Marina di Pietrasanta or window shopping in Old Town, there is

brushed elbows with a kind old man at the local market knows

no shortage of entertainment for travelers.

that the truest way to experience the magic of Italy is in the

As Troy University’s summer home, Pietrasanta has welcomed

smallest of its cities.

a number of TROY’s fine arts students. For these creative


While in Italy, Wasden experienced hands-on learning opportunities such as making homemade pasta during a cooking class.

minds, a multitude of inspiration hides in the small town. It

a constant stream of new experiences in the change of scenery.

has a certain magic that makes even the tiniest of moments

Leaving the classroom and adopting a café among the bustling

inexplicably joyful: the smiling eyes of a pizzaiolo, an act of

streets or a cabana near the rhythmic lap of water on the shore

kindness by a stranger on the train or young children dancing

as places of learning makes seeking knowledge an even greater

in a rainstorm. Dubbed the “Athens of Italy,” Pietrasanta’s art

experience of pleasure.

presence features traditions of marble and oil juxtaposed with

To four English majors, stepping off into the unknown of Italian

modern interpretations of street art and graphic design. It

culture was the push we needed to get out of our comfort

seems that even the most abandoned of street corners is host

zones and strengthen our writing careers. Being taught in a

to an artistic expression.

“write what you know” world, any chance to grow in knowledge

When traveling abroad, students must be constantly aware of

is welcome. With inspirations including the likes of F. Scott

their surroundings—not for safety, but for enjoyment. There is

Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway and Ezra Pound, we students


From left: Lydia Gilmer, Anna Shay Wasden, Katelyn Smith, Kayla Chandler and Dr. Kurt Curnutt, chair of TROY's English Department, spent a portion of the summer touring Pietrasanta, Italy, and its surrounding areas.

worked to join the ranks of expatriate travel writers. But, the

local. But greatest of all—trailblazer, paving the way for future

life skills we gained far exceeded even the practical writing

English majors to experience the Summer Arts Academy.

skills we will translate into our careers.

We soon came to say goodbye to the small city of Pietrasanta

The overwhelming theme of our Italian trip was pushing past

but not to its place in our hearts. An immersive experience

our fears. We soon became bold and relentless in our pursuit

that does not ever seem to be accurately described in words

of new, exciting experiences. Our group grew to take on many

(even by English majors), the magic contained in our two-week

new hats as we traveled through the two weeks in Tuscany:

excursion will propel our lives and writing for countless years.

navigator, Iron Chef, translator, sommelier, cave explorer, and

Thank you, Troy University!



A LU M N I

ALUMNUS WINS

T ROY T O DAY

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ARMY'S ELITE MACARTHUR AWARD Scott’s leadership was first honed in Kabul, Afghanistan, where he was the medical officer for the Surgeon Cell at Camp Phoenix in support of Operation Enduring Freedom as part of the 226th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade located in Mobile. Four months into his nine-month rotation, he was assigned to the position of battle captain for the Kabul Base Cluster. He’s held a number of positions post-deployment and is currently assigned to the 424th Multi-functional Medical Battalion in Newton Square, Pennsylvania as the battalion

TROY Alumnus Army Capt. Stephen Scott (’12), a Prattville

S4/PBO. He manages the battalion’s supply and logistics needs

native, was all smiles as he walked across a Pentagon stage to

and oversees more than $70 million worth of inventory.

receive a bust of the great Gen. Douglas MacArthur. He even

In addition to Army ROTC at TROY, Scott said his experience as

hammed it up a bit with the Director of Army Staff, Lt. Gen.

a resident assistant, a Trojan Ambassador, being vice president

Walter E. Piatt, who presented it to him.

of the University Activities Council and a member of Freshman

This Trojan Warrior became the first TROY graduate to ever be

Forum was instrumental in his development as an Army officer.

awarded the Army’s General Douglas MacArthur Leadership

“Each opportunity provided essential tools that helped develop

Award. It puts him in an elite group in the Army. This year,

and enhance my competencies and attributes as a leader,” he

just 30 company-grade officers in the entire Army structure

said, “and those are applicable to my daily life.”

received the honor.


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A LUM N I

Alumni Sara Ivey and Karvarus Moore have given back to their University by painting a mural on the outside wall of the International Arts Center.

TROY GRADS PAINT MURAL ON INTERNATIONAL ARTS CENTER

Troy University’s International Arts Center is a hub for

Chicago this fall. “The warriors are a focus here at the IAC,

creativity, expression and learning, and two recent graduates

and TROY prides itself on being an international school. The

are expressing that spirit through a new mural.

mural ultimately brings a universal melding of two cultures,

Sara Ivey and Karvarus Moore, who both graduated in May

East and West.”

with degrees in fine arts, spent time this summer painting a

As art students, the development of the IAC meant much to

mural of the terracotta warriors, which are on display in

both alumni as they navigated their academic careers.

Janice Hawkins Park, on the back entrance wall of the IAC.

“It’s been hugely important,” Moore said. “In this space, we

The mural represents a beautiful symbol of the statues seen

can have much more appealing shows, and it gives students

outside and the information contained inside the “Warriors

a sense of accomplishment to see their galleries here. It’s

Unearthed” exhibit.

been instrumental these past few years, whether through our

“A former classmate and I decided to propose this mural,”

senior thesis show or just by having visitors and students come

said Ivey, who was recently hired by Dothan City Schools as

through here a lot.”

an elementary art teacher. “We’re very passionate about it

Ivey said she hopes to use the spirit of encouragement she felt

because we wanted to leave a mark for other students to see.

at TROY to lead her future students into a love of the arts.

We wanted to create something that transitioned you into

“I definitely want to have students who are very passionate

this space.”

about art, and a lot of times it takes building them up to that,”

The two began work on the project in July. “This mural is

she said. “I want to encourage them the way I was encouraged

something heartfelt and important to us,” said Moore, who

here at TROY.”

began graduate studies at the School of the Art Institute in


A LU M N I

CONGRATS, ALUMNI

ALUM NOTES

For 22 years I have had the distinct privilege of serving as your alumni director. It is indeed an honor to promote the mission of the Troy University Alumni Association which is to support the University in all its endeavors and to provide services to benefit you—our alumni and friends. One of the most important things that the Alumni Association does each year is recognize our outstanding alumni with Distinguished Alumni of the Year Awards. This year we pay tribute to a new class; Anshooman Aga, Darlene Hutchinson Biehl, Tommy Bryan and Lamar Higgins. You can read more about these deserving Trojans in this issue. We applaud them for their loyalty and service to the University and look forward to honoring them at Homecoming 2019. I also want to congratulate Dr. Jack Hawkins on his 30 years of outstanding leadership and service to our alma mater. He truly leads with a servant’s

’70 Curt Barnes (’73) was recently inducted into the Wiregrass Sports Hall of Fame. After graduating from TROY, Barnes began a long high school coaching career in basketball, baseball and football at schools in the Wiregrass. He coached at Abbeville, Headland, Slocomb, Houston Academy, Ashford, Wicksburg and Rehobeth. Barnes became an assistant principal at Rehobeth in 1995 and retired from education in 2003. He also spent 18 years as the softball supervisor for the city of Dothan. Nita G. Denton (’77, ’78), an assistant State Attorney for Florida’s 19th Circuit Office of the State Attorney, was recently reappointed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to the 19th Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission. Her term will end July 1, 2022. Jim McKnight (’78) serves as city manager for the city of Cocoa Beach, Florida.

heart and we are blessed to call him our Chancellor. Looking ahead, plans are underway for a new Alumni Center. I invite each of you to help make this dream a reality by giving generously to this project. TROY’s Day of Giving is Wednesday, October 16, 2019. This would be an excellent opportunity to invest in the Alumni Center. Your gifts can truly make a difference in the life of the University and the Alumni Association. For more information, please call me at the Office of Alumni Affairs at (334) 670-3318. GO TROY!

Faith West Byrd Troy University Alumni Director

’80 Garner Clark (’84), pastor of Autaugaville Baptist church in the Autauga Baptist Association, recently retired after 45 years in ministry. In addition to 35 years as pastor in Autaugaville, Clark also served at McGehee Road Baptist Church in Montgomery and Millville Baptist Church in Frankfort, Kentucky. Larry Hobbs (’84), crime reporter for The Brunswick News, recently published the book “Coast Tales: True Historic Stories From Georgia’s Golden Isles.” The book is a collection of writings from the first year of his history column. His first book “A Historical Crash Course on Coastal Georgia and the Golden Isles,” was published in 2017.

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55

Ed Fulford (’88) has joined VENZA data protection company as security director. As an executive and consultant in cybersecurity governance, risk and compliance, Fulford has more than 30 years of international experience assessing, building and managing cybersecurity and risk management programs for companies such as RBS WorldPay, Cingular Wireless and British Telecom. His professional certifications include the Payment Card Industry Professional (PCIP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) and Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA). Fulford serves as a member of the Business Executive Advisory Board for TROY’s Sorrell College of Business. He is also a visiting professor with the Information and Assurance Program at the Kennesaw State University Coles College of Business in Kennesaw, Georgia. Jeff Harwell (’88) has been inducted into the Limestone County Sports Hall of Fame. During his time at TROY, Harwell ran track and was an All-Conference selection for the Trojans.

’90

Scott Horan (’90) has been named as the public works director for the city of Manassas, Virginia. Horan has more than 15 years of experience with Stafford County Public Schools and more than 20


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TROY TODAY

years as an Air Force engineering officer. In his new position, Horan will oversee all public works functions, including buildings and grounds maintenance, cemeteries, streets, traffic controls, solid waste and vehicle maintenance. Kelly Roberts (’90, ’93, ’16), a second-grade general educator at Troy Elementary School, has earned her Doctor of Education degree from Nova Southeastern University with a concentration in instructional leadership. She has 29 years of experience as a teacher.

Rear Adm. Richard T. Brophy (’92) became the 15th commander of the Naval Aviation Warfare Development Center, Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada. Brophy’s tours have included six deployments aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt, USS Enterprise, USS George Washington, USS John F. Kennedy, USS Ronald Reagan and the USS John C. Stennis. He also commanded Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115 and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9. The aviator has an extensive background in shore assignments. During his career, Brophy has logged more than 3,900 flight hours and conducted 100 combat missions. Derek Ellington (’92) has been named mid-south region executive for business banking by Bank of America Merrill Lynch. He will be based in Greensboro, North Carolina. Ellington also completed a three-year banking school program from the North Carolina Bankers

Association and is also a graduate of Leadership North Carolina. He has been with the bank since 1997. Greta Whiddon (’92) has joined Pike Liberal Arts School as a school counselor. Whiddon has 26 years of experience in the field of education. Linda Ash (’95) has been named branch manager of the Sarasota Central office of Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate. Ash has 19 years of management and real estate experience, working in both residential and new construction. Prior to real estate, Ash served as regional sales director and director of distance learning for Scholastic Education. She formed the Tennessee state chapter for the United States Distance Learning Association where she served as president.

Distinguished Service to the Law Enforcement Community. Dr. Pamela A. Wilson (’98) has received Trident University’s Teaching Excellence Award for the Winter 2019 quarter. Dr. Wilson has served as a part-time faculty member in Trident’s College of Education since 2009. A 32-year military veteran, Dr. Wilson holds a Master of Public Administration from TROY. Josh Wilson (’98, ’99) has been appointed as district judge for Coffee County by Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey. Wilson previously served for six years as assistant district attorney in Pike and Coffee counties. Wilson earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a Master of Business Administration from TROY. Dr. Jared E. Leet (’99), a licensed psychologist, recently joined the Baptist Health Family Medicine Residency Program in Madisonville, Kentucky. Leet has more than 20 years of experience in the behavioral health field and is a member of the Kentucky Psychological Association.

’00

Rick Lugg (’95) is chief financial officer and chief operating officer of Virginia Realtors, the state of Virginia’s largest trade organization, representing nearly 34,000 realtors in residential and commercial real estate businesses. Eli S. Miranda (’98) has been named as the special agent in charge of the FBI’s Honolulu Field Office. Miranda most recently served as the director of the High-Value Detainee Interrogation Group. He joined the FBI as a special agent in 2001. Prior to joining the FBI, Miranda served in the U.S. Army and later in law enforcement in Florida. In 2013, Miranda received the FBI Director’s Award for

Judy Seto (’00) has been named director of sports performance by the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association. She previously served as the team’s head physical therapist from 2011-2016.

Carlton Ulmer (’01) has been named CEO of Medical City Plano (Texas) and continued on page 58


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A LUM N I

THE ART OF LAW

Craig Shook has always loved art. Today, he’s blended his

One sketch helped apprehend a murderer wanted for 34 years

art with a passion for law enforcement as Alabama’s primary

for killing his wife and children in Pike County. That suspect was

certified forensic composite artist at the State Bureau

captured in Puerto Rico while renewing his passport. Shook’s

of Investigation. “I loved Woody Ishmael. His art was all over

age-progression drawing caused red flags on the application

the place—in the White House, even,” he said. “So, I studied art.”

that alerted U.S. Marshals and led to the arrest.

Shook said Ishmael and other faculty encouraged his art and honed his skills, but he admits the talent comes from someplace else. “I used to think anyone could learn to do it, but, even watching my own grandchildren with crayons, I now understand drawing is really a gift,” he said. After a career at the Montgomery Police Department, at 51, Shook was given the opportunity to join the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, and there concentrated on vice and special operations, which he still does in addition to his crime sketching. His shot to draw for law enforcement agencies statewide came in somewhat an unusual place, however. “I was standing in the middle of a marijuana field and my cell phone rang,” he said. “I was asked if I wanted to take a class in Nashville (on law enforcement sketching).” He jumped at the chance, and today, his drawings help local and state law enforcement apprehend criminals even across the globe.

SBI Special Agent Craig Shook, a 1981 graduate, is the state's forensic composite artist.


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TROY TODAY

Medical City Frisco (Texas), part of the Dallas-based Medical City Healthcare. He most recently served as CEO of West Florida Hospital in Pensacola. He holds a Master of Business Administration from TROY. Dale F. Alward (’02) has been named as the new chief executive officer for Sovah Health-Martinsville, Virginia. He previously served as CEO of Twin County Regional Healthcare in Galax, Virginia. He holds a Master of Public Administration from TROY. Glenn Irby (’02) has been named the city manager of Edgewater, Florida. He had served in the role on an interim basis since February. Irby previously served as city administrator for the city of Apopka, Florida.

Loretta Shields (’02) was recently named the assistant vice president of human resources at New College of Florida. Shields has spent most of her professional career as executive director of benefits, wellness and compliance at Kent State University. She has also held human resources positions at the Norfolk Airport Authority, Chicago Title Insurance Company and the University of South Carolina. She holds a master’s degree in human resource management from TROY. Tricia W. Powers (’03), a captain with the Virginia State Police, has joined the department’s executive staff as a deputy director of the Bureau of Administrative and Support Services. Powers had served as the commander of the

Criminal Justice Information Services Division since 2016. A 1994 graduate of the Virginia State Police Academy and a 2012 graduate of the FBI National Academy, Powers holds a master’s degree in criminal justice from TROY. Dr. Sean Preston (’03) has been named as the president and CEO of the National Corvette Museum located in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Previous roles include 12 years as a non-profit president and as executive director of Cypress Heights Academy in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Steven Reynolds (’03) has been promoted to the position of Valdosta market president of Ameris Bank. Prior to joining Ameris Bank in February 2019 as a commercial banker, Reynolds was the Valdosta president for Bank OZK. He also served as a credit analyst and commercial lender with Bank OZK, and before that was a commercial loan review officer with Regions Bank. Charles Wimberly (’03) has been named head softball coach at East Georgia State College. He currently serves as the college’s athletic director, a position he will retain, and has more than 25 years of athletic coaching experience at the high school and collegiate levels. He holds a Master of Public Administration from TROY. Brian Leathers (’04) has been named as chief financial officer of Philly Shipyard ASA. Leathers has served as the company’s strategy and compliance officer for the past six months. He previously served as a consultant to the company and as the chief financial officer for shipbuilder Austal USA. He holds a Master of Business Administration from TROY. Trudy Henry (’05) was recently named as the director of the CovingtonNewton, Georgia 911 Center. Wes Dunsieth (’07) has been named as the new assistant principal at Chilton County High School in Clanton. Dunsieth has worked in education since 2009, most recently as a history teacher and baseball coach at Stanhope Elmore High School in Millbrook.

Capt. Johnetta C. Thomas (’08) has been promoted to the rank of captain in the U.S. Navy. She is the executive officer at Naval Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics Center, Norfolk, Virginia. Thomas has served 22 years in the Navy, seven of which have been spent on ship or sea duty.

Lt. Col. Tara L. Jones (’09) is deputy commander of the 403rd Mission Support Group at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi. She graduated from Air Command and Staff College at Air University, Maxwell Air Force Base, in 2015.

’10 Anthony Cetrangelo (’11) has joined the law firm of Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A. in Naples, Florida. Cetrangelo will serve as an associate in the Wills, Trust & Estate Planning department. Prior to joining Henderson


T ROY T O DAY

A L U MN I

59

R EC EN T T R OY G R ADUATE

REFLECTS ON JOURNEY TO AIR FORCE

Passion, work ethic and commitment paid off for the men and

Commissioned at the Troy Campus Spring Commencement,

women recently commissioned into the Armed Forces at TROY.

Springs made the most of her time at TROY, serving as

Those attributes, along with a strong sense of honor bred by

captain of the dance team and joining Alpha Kappa Alpha

her family roots, led recent TROY graduate Christalyn Springs

in addition to her work in Air Force ROTC. “Troy University

through her college journey and, now, a career in the Air Force.

introduced me to an abundance of amazing people who have

The Wetumpka native studied

become family to me,” Springs

psychology and Spanish at TROY,

said. “Before I came here, I was

where she worked hard to

very shy and stayed to myself.

earn a position her mother had

However, through meeting so

held before her as an Air Force

many people, I was able to break

veteran.

out of my shell a little bit and

“It’s hard to find the right words

grow into the confident woman

for my feelings when I finally

I am today. I’m so grateful to

commissioned,” said Springs,

God, my family and my Cadre for

who has moved to Hurlburt

helping me get to where I am,

Field, Florida, to start her career

because I couldn’t have done it

as a force support officer. “It was truly an honor to receive my

Christalyn Springs, right, salutes her mother, left, who served 26 years in the Air Force.

without them.”

first salute from my mother, who served 26 years in the Air Force.” Franklin, he was the managing partner of a Naples, Florida, law firm. During his time at TROY, he was a place kicker on the Trojans football team. Gregory Elder (’12) has been named chief of police for the Albany State University Police Department. He previously served as chief of public safety at Bethune-Cookman University and as a law enforcement instructor at Albany Technical College. He holds a master’s degree in criminal justice from TROY. William Filmore (’11, ’18) has been named director of legislative affairs by Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey. Filmore will serve as the lead conduit between the Governor’s Office and the Alabama Legislature. Filmore has served in state government since 2015, starting as governmental relations coordinator at the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency before joining Ivey’s staff in 2017. He

previously worked as the governor’s house liaison and director of local governmental affairs. Paul Hudson (’11), police chief for the city of Andalusia, is celebrating his 25th year as a city employee. He became chief in 2013.

Liane E. Towle (’11), family nurse practitioner, has joined the medical team

of the Perfect Kids & Family Care Clinic in Union Springs. Her previous work experience includes serving as a nurse practitioner at MedHealth Urgent Care, working as a registered nurse at Jackson Hospital and performing as a public health specialist in the Air National Guard. Dr. Michael L. McDuffie (’12) has been named as the chief executive officer of Metropolitan Community Health Services, Inc. McDuffie has served as the executive director of Metropolitan Community Health Services, Inc., in Washington, North Carolina, since June 2014 and has more than 17 years of experience in health care management at community health centers. He holds a master’s degree in healthcare management and human resource management from TROY. continued on page 61


ALU MNI

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TROY TODAY

ALUMNA WINS

MISS NEW YORK TITLE Troy University alumna Lauren Molella has been crowned Miss New York 2019, becoming the first person to have won the title of both Miss New York’s Outstanding Teen (2011) and the state title in the Miss America preliminary. The 24-year old native New Yorker, who graduated with a double major in biology pre-med and psychology (with minors in dance and the honor’s program) in 2016, has gone on to earn her master's in applied psychology at Sacred Heart University and teaches in the physics, biology and psychology departments at Dutchess Community College in Poughkeepsie, New York. “TROY gave me the opportunity to learn about the South, foster my philanthropic side and make friendships I still cherish today,” she said. “It advanced my path in STEM fields and gave me the chance to continue my passion for dance.” Molella said her time at TROY helped prepare her all of her current obligations. “Being a TROY Trojan helped me learn about who I was and who I wanted to become. TROY was a wonderful place to grow as an individual and learn to be a warrior for what you found to be important in the world,” she said. “Both on and off the pageant stage, I am confident in what I believe and the change I want to create and inspire and thankful to the networks of talented, smart, intellectuals TROY provided me the opportunity to meet.” The Miss America Organization is a good place to launch some of that change. Her “social impact” focuses on the implementation of a statewide suicide prevention initiative aimed at veterans and active military members and targeting communities where risk factors such as post-traumatic stress syndrome are rampant. “Voices of Honor – Salute and Support” also seeks to highlight military women and utilize social media and Molella's public appearances to bring the people of New York to the forefront “in helping our heroes.” “The chance to give back to the organization was a ‘no brainer,’ and I am so excited to serve the people of New York and work to foster the

Lauren Molella has earned more than $84,000 in scholarships throughout her time with the Miss America organization.

organization,” Molella said.


David Sapp (’13), a U.S. Army veteran, was honored by the Atlanta Braves as a Hometown Hero during their July 19 game against the Washington Nationals. Sapp enlisted in the Army in 1988 at the age of 18, and his assignments included Fort Benning, Georgia, Fort Campbell, Kentucky, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Fort McPherson, Georgia, Italy and Germany. During his service, he was awarded the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, four Army Commendation Medals and three Army Achievement Medals. He was wounded during a 2006 firefight in Iraq and retired from the Army in 2009. In retirement, he is active in veteran outreach and service with Team River Runner, a nonprofit that hosts weekly paddling excursions across the country for disabled veterans. He resides in Dawsonville, Georgia. Alex Baggett-Griggs (’14) has been promoted to the rank of sergeant on third shift patrol for the city of Troy Police Department. Baggett-Griggs previously served on the department’s special enforcement unit. Jamarlo Phillips (’14) is a general assignment reporter for Action News Jax, CBS 47 in Jacksonville, Florida. Before coming to Jacksonville, Phillips worked at WEAR ABC 3 in Pensacola as a reporter and fill-in anchor. He is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Misty Hudmon (’15, ’16) has been named as the new principal of Huguley Elementary School by the Chambers County School District. She has been an employee of the district since 1999. Brittany Lee (’16) has joined Charlestowne Hotels as director of human resources. She previously served as a human resource specialist at the Grand Hotel Golf Resort and Spa in Pointe Clear, Alabama. Lynsey Smith (’18) has joined the news team at WRGB in Albany, Georgia, as a multi-media journalist. She previously was a member of the news team at WTVY in Dothan.

Trevon Sanders (’19), a rookie defensive lineman with the New York Jets, was recently honored by the city of North Charleston, South Carolina, serving as Mayor for the Day. Sanders was the fourth person to receive the honor from Mayor Keith Summey, who has been mayor since 1994. Sanders was an AllSun Belt first team selection as a senior at TROY. Jordan Varnado (’19), former TROY men’s basketball standout, was on the 15-man roster for the Toronto Raptor’s MGM Resorts Summer League team in Las Vegas. Alexa Wilson (’19) has become Opp Elementary School’s newest special education teacher.

T ROY T O DAY

61

IN REMEMBRANCE Troy University Alumni Rev. Jerry L. Glover (’65, ’78) Rhetta Crew Johnson (’66) Col. Alston R. Chace (U.S. Air Force Chaplain, ret.) (’73) Col. Jerome Edward Greenwell (U.S. Air Force, ret.) (’74) Debbie Jean Mixson (’77, ’86) Don Dennis (’78, ’96) Kevin Dwain Averett (’84, ’95) William D. Smith, Jr. (’85) Danny Earl Cauthorn (’87) Evan Wade Prater (’87) Judy Pollock Cannon (’92, ’94) Thomas Richard “Tom” Defibaugh (’93)

WEDDINGS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

Sylvia Hurley Bowman (’04) Mary Louise Crutsinger Gayle (’08) Julie Ann Harpe Pierce (’09)

Margaret Eva Nobles (’19) to Joseph Nathaniel Crawford (’19) Taylor Elaine Godwin (’17) to Andre Joseph Bassett Emily Lane Harrelson (’17, ’18) to John-Mark Daniel Baker

IN REMEMBRANCE Troy University Friends Juanita Abernathy Bascom McDonald “Mack” Brooms Dr. Eddie Clark

Christin Jackson to Seth Taylor (’19) Faith Ward (’81, ’87) to Charles “Sim” Byrd (’71)

James Marion Clark Lee Dace Delbert Dr. Joseph “Joe” Murray Fielding Dr. Betty J. Harrison Kennedy

Dr. Arlene Jackson, honorary TROY doctorate recipient and School of Nursing donors selected the name of the department’s new simulation baby Sept. 12, as part of the 50th anniversary of the BSN celebration. Voters selected Jack Hawkins, III (Trey).

former associate vice president for global initiatives at the American Association of State Colleges and Universities, passed away on Aug. 15.


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TROY TODAY

A L U MN I

ALUMNI OF THE YEAR

Anshooman Aga, who earned a bachelor’s degree in finance in 1997, is executive vice president and chief financial officer of the San Diego, Californiabased Cubic Corporation, a technology-driven global provider of innovative, mission-critical solutions in the transportation and defense markets worldwide. The San Diego Business Journal honored him as the 2019 Public Company CFO of the Year. Prior to his current position, Aga served as senior vice president and CFO for AECOM’s Design and Consulting Services business in the Americas and various leadership positions with the automation company Siemens. Aga came to TROY from New Delhi, India, on a tennis scholarship. He earned first-team All-Conference honors in 1995, 1996 and 1997, was named Mid-Continent Conference Player of the Year in 1996 and won the Mid-Continent ScholarAthlete Award in 1996-1997. He holds a Master of Business Administration in accounting and finance from the Crummer Graduate School of Business at Rollins College.

Darlene Hutchinson Biehl, a 1989 TROY graduate with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, is the director of the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) and oversees the administration of more than $9 billion in grants and other projects. With more than 20 years of experience in victim advocacy, Hutchinson has led an active role in passing legislation, advancing public policy, teaching at police academies and working directly with victims and their families following all types of crime. A crime victim herself, Hutchinson played a key role in the development of Alabama’s innovative victim notification system and was part of the team responsible for the passage of the Alabama Victims’ Constitutional Amendment in 1994-95. She has also worked in publishing and communications. While at TROY, she was a member of Chi Omega sorority and served as editor of the Tropolitan student newspaper her senior year.


T ROY T O DAY

63

Tommy Bryan, who earned his bachelor’s degree in education in 1978 and his master’s in education in 1979 from TROY, was elected to the Alabama Supreme Court in 2012 and sworn into office as an Associate Justice in January 2013. The Crenshaw County native graduated from the Thomas Goode Jones School of Law in 1983 and following graduation, served as a staff attorney for the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals. He became an assistant attorney general for the State of Alabama in 1987 before winning election to the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals in 2004. In 2012, during his tenure on the Court of Civil Appeals, Bryan was named “Judge of the Year” by the Family Law Section of the Alabama State Bar. In 2014, Bryan, a charter member of the TROY chapter of Sigma Chi fraternity, was selected by Sigma Chi International as a “Significant Sig,” which recognizes alumni who have achieved high levels of professional success. Bryan is a member of the Alabama Bar Association, where he served as a member of the Environmental Law and Appellate Practice Sections, and he served as vice chairman of the Quality of Life Committee. He is also a member of the Montgomery County Bar Association and has been admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court, the United States Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit and the District of Columbia.

Lamar P. Higgins, a 1981 TROY graduate with a bachelor’s in social science, is a partner in the firm of Fine Geddie & Associates, LLC., one of the state’s most successful consulting and lobbying firms. He also serves as a partner in the Minority Business Participation Corporation. Higgins was appointed to the Troy University Board of Trustees in 1996, becoming the first African-American to serve on the board. Earlier this year, he was elected as the Board’s Vice President pro tempore. Higgins was instrumental in establishing the Rosa Parks Museum on TROY’s Montgomery Campus. During his time at TROY, Higgins became the first African-American to be elected as Student Government Association vice president and president, and the first person ever to be elected as president twice. Higgins is a member of Saint Paul AME Church in Montgomery where he serves as steward and director of music.

To learn more about annual recognition of outstanding alumni and to make a nomination, contact Alumni Affairs at 334-670-3318.


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TROY TODAY

ALUM NI

N EW A LUMNI C HAPTE R

I N CHINA

Troy University’s alumni presence in China continued to grow

“Life is about relationships,” Hawkins said. “We enjoy very

this summer as members of the newest China Alumni Chapter

strong relationships with our partner universities, and building

gathered at the Lotus Hotel in Chongqing City, China. More

and maintaining connections with our TROY alumni in China

than 60 alumni and former TROY visiting scholars joined

is truly important. I am proud of our alumni here and their

University officials for networking and discussion of the

strong desire to remain connected to each other and to

organization and future of the chapter, which was formed

Troy University.”

in 2018.

Yuxing Tao, TROY Alumni China Chapter President who

The gathering coincided with TROY officials’ trip to China

graduated with a Master of Business Administration in 2012

to take part in the commencement ceremonies for the 1+2+1

and runs more than 300 business stores in China, nominated

Sino-American Dual Degree Program. Participants heard

two leadership positions.

remarks from Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr., and Dr. Lance

“President Tao is providing wonderful leadership in moving this

Tatum, TROY’s Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.

chapter forward and truly has a vision for the chapter’s future

Sohail Agboatwala, Associate Vice Chancellor for International

and how its members can promote the TROY experience to

Programs, also represented the University along with

others in China,” Agboatwala said.

Silvia Li and Ruifeng Wang from the University’s International

The chapter is TROY’s second alumni chapter in China. The

Program staff.

University also has international alumni chapters in Russia and Vietnam.




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