ULM Magazine FALL 2022 • VOLUME 23

CHANGING LIVES TO CREATE A BETTER

FROM OUR PRESIDENT

Greetings, Fellow Alumni and Friends!

It is hard to imagine, but this fall marks the beginning of my third year as President. In some ways, it seems nearly impossible that two years have already passed, but in other ways, I am sure due to COVID, it seems like it has been a lot longer. Either way, over the last year our university has accomplished much and continues to move forward in our quest to change lives.

Last year during our annual University Welcome Address, we collectively identified “changing lives” as our purpose for being. Simply put, our primary purpose is to help each individual become the best version of themselves. This year, during the official opening of the 2023 academic year, I challenged our faculty and staff to consider “how” we live up to that purpose. In this issue, you will read about great examples of how our faculty, staff and students are living out that mission.

We launched our new strategic plan that was developed with valuable input from our ULM family members, community groups, partners, and alumni from across the country. We are excited about the opportunities that its implementation will bring, but even more appreciative of the enthusiasm and excitement it

created among the many participants in the process.

Even though the plan is for five years, we will have a thorough review and update process every two years to check our progress and to ensure our goals are still valid and appropriate. Please know, we always appreciate your input and suggestions along the way.

We owe sincere thanks to our legislative delegation and the Governor for providing one of the best budget years for higher education in a long time. They provided a second year of raises for our faculty, increases in state funds, and a record number of capital outlay projects that will allow us to update Sugar Hall, home of many of our allied health programs. We also received much needed funds to address deferred maintenance issues on campus.

Our faculty and staff continue to provide outstanding services to our students, each other and our community. You will read about several significant funding opportunities in this issue that allows ULM to improve our communities. Our faculty continue to do amazing work with our federal and state partners to secure grant investments for ULM that impact our campus and region.

During this year’s University Address,

I shared Walt Whitman’s words from his poem O Me? O Life! - “The powerful play goes on and you may contribute a verse.” At ULM, we are working each day to help our ULM family become the best version of themselves so that they can contribute their own unique verse to the powerful play of life. We appreciate what each of you continues to do to support ULM and our mission, and truly hope that each of you is living your best life possible.

Sincerely,

Ronald Berry, D.B.A. ULM President

President Dr. Ronald Berry

photo by Paul Ware

ON THE COVER

“A Better World” by Srdjan Marjanovic is a digital illustration composed with Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop software. The overall concept of this digital illustration is to create an impression of prototyping ULM’s future by applying a cardboard cut-out effect to compose an architectural model that reflects ULM’s strategic plan previously created by all the parties involved in making a better future for all of us.

CONTENTS

CHANGING LIVES TO CREATE A BETTER WORLD

THE HUB PELICAN CUP

THE LARGEST AWARD IN A DECADE

ADRIAN FISHER, AMERICAN POLITICIAN, BUSINESSMAN, AND PASTOR

WARHAWK ROADSHOW GROWS IN POPULARITY

MAGA ZINE

FALL 2022 • VOLUME

PRESIDENT

Ronald Berry, D.B.A. (BBA ’88, MBA ’90)

VICE PRESIDENT OF ENROLLMENT

MANAGEMENT AND UNIVERSITY RELATIONS

Lisa Miller (MS '94)

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

Brice Jones, Ph.D.

COMMUNICATION COORDINATOR

Mary Elizabeth Dean, Editor

EXECUTIVE CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Srdjan Marjanovic (BFA ’12)

GRAPHIC DESIGN COORDINATOR

Shanette L. Washington (BFA ’02)

MARKETING MEDIA MANAGER

Jeanette Robinson (BFA ’21)

VISUAL MEDIA SPECIALIST

Paul Ware

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ULM ADVANCEMENT, FOUNDATION AND ALUMNI RELATIONS

Susan Chappell (BBA ’82, MBA ’87)

PRESIDENT, ULM ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

Ash Aulds (BS ‘14, MBA ‘15)

DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI AFFAIRS

Sarah O'Connor Siereveld (MBA '20)

CONTRIBUTORS

Adam McDonald, Ashlyn Dupree, Asja Jordan, Aundi Brown, Cathi Hemed, Danielle Kelley Tolbird, Dr. Joydeep Bhattacharjee, Dr. Valerie S. Fields, Dr. Wendy Bailes, Jamie Hanks, Jansen Nowell, John Lewandowski, Seth Hall, Siddharth Gualee, Taylor Costa

The ULM Magazine is published for members of the ULM Alumni Association and friends of the University of Louisiana Monroe.

Send letters & comments to:

The ULM Magazine Office of Marketing & Communications 700 University Ave. Monroe, LA 71209–2500

Email: ulmmagazine@ulm.edu

Any letters or comments may be published and edited for length and style.

Contents © 2022 by the University of Louisiana Monroe and the ULM Alumni Association. All rights reserved. The University of Louisiana Monroe is a member of the University of Louisiana System.

THE BELL TOWER

The Kitty DeGree Bell Tower atop the ULM Library has been a campus fixture since April 12, 1999 when the 140,000 square foot building opened. Since then, it's become the most photographed area on campus, with its picturesque height seen from almost every angle. The Bell Tower was dedicated in 2001 in honor of Kitty DeGree, the university’s most generous donor. Every 15 minutes, the tower’s bells ring—a memorable sound for anyone who comes to campus. Dur ing the holiday season, the bells can be heard chiming carols throughout the day. Seen as the university’s most opulent feature, the Kitty DeGree Bell Tower serves as the focal point of our campus and as a reminder of our institution’s wealth of knowledge and of our community’s generosity.

photo by Jeanette Robinson

FROM THE ALUMNI DIRECTOR

Dear Alumni & Friends,

What a wonderful time to be on the bayou! The Alumni Association has been working diligently to finalize our strategic plan, which prioritizes renewed focus on engagement and increasing visibility of alumni & ULM; cultivating new relationships and partnerships in the University and local community; and directly connecting with each of you.

Our mission focuses on changing the future by staying connected and getting involved. In the last year alone, we have made tremendous strides in forwarding that mission. After two years of anticipation, we were able to host our annual fundraiser, Wine Over Water, which provides scholarships to incoming freshmen through the Spirit of the Warhawk Scholarship. We added three new engagement events to the alumni calendar – baseball and softball tailgates and a networking social in partnership with the College of Business and Social Sciences. We reactivated our twenty-three Chapters & Clubs throughout the country and began building a volunteer network. The Association increased visibility on campus by partnering with departments such as Career & Student Development, Greek Life & the Offices of Multicultural Affairs, and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. Looking ahead, we will work with Chapter & Club leaders to offer engagement events and programs in your area; elevate our community presence through our partnership with Career Development and focus on Alumni Businesses; expand our Alumni Recruiter Initiative, and more!

As we worked through the 2021-2022 year, it compelled me to appraise the “Alumni Journey.” When does the journey begin? It begins the second a student shows interest in ULM and continues well beyond their walk across the stage at commencement. Imagine your alumni journey: meeting an alumnus at a recruiting event or in your hometown; receiving an alumni scholarship;

participating in a 31 Ambassador event such as Oozeball; attending a networking social hosted by the Alumni Association; signing your internship offer at an alumni business or through an alumni connection; receiving your mini diploma and joining the Alumni Association; attending Wine Over Water or an event hosted by your local chapter; joining the Alumni Association Board of Directors; working at an organization that sponsors ULM activities or events; sending your child to ULM or returning to campus to celebrate your induction into the Golden Society. There are countless opportunities to participate in the alumni journey!

I challenge you to be an integral part of that journey. How? Stay connected –follow us on social media and ensure we have your correct information for events and campus news! Get involved - attend an event, submit your Good News, nominate an alumni business for Business of the Month, volunteer with us, find your place in the alumni journey to give back! Change the Future with us – join the Alumni Association, participate in a networking event, hire a Warhawk, become a chapter or club leader, start a scholarship award, sponsor an event!

It begins with you.

We are here and look forward to changing the future together.

TAKE FLIGHT!

SARAH SIEREVELD Director of Alumni Affairs

FROM THE ALUMNI INTERIM DIRECTOR

Sarah O'Connor Siereveld

photo by Siddharth Gaulee

BY SETH HALL

CHANGING LIVES TO CREATE A BETTER WORLD

ULM'S 2022-2027 STRATEGIC PLAN

The University of Louisiana Monroe has been in the business of “Changing Lives” for over 90 years. This historical focus has been so profound that “Changing Lives” now serves as the abbreviated mission of the University. With nearly 70,000 alumni living all over the world, there is no denying that ULM has changed the lives of thousands upon thousands of people and has ultimately changed the lives of millions of people indirectly. We are proud of this tradition. ▶

CHANGING LIVES

ULMMAGAZINE FALL 2022

photo provided by Special Collections & Archives

Our history of changing lives is evident in the strategic plan that was recently developed and implemented at the University. The plan highlights five main pillars including Student Success, Faculty and Staff Distinction, Intellectual Activity, Community Engagement, and Athletic Excellence, with a foundation built on our University Resources and core Principles and Values.

A brief word about the philosophy of strategic planning: David Booth has demonstrated how strategic plans are often reflective of “the competitiveness of playing to win, the exercise of power,” and developed from some feeling of organizational necessity.1 ULM’s current strategic plan is not a shelf document developed to check a box – it is a live, organic document that can be revised, will be formally reviewed every two years, and is publicly available (ulm.edu/president/ progress/future).

Ultimately, the process of developing the new strategic plan was just as important as the actual document that was created. We were able to hear from and work with students, faculty, staff, alumni, community members, and more. We hosted open forums, performed SWOT analyses, created several committees that contributed astute work, and ultimately, developed a plan that was inspired by our ULM family. This plan is not the “Ron Berry plan.” It is everyone’s plan. It is a ULM family plan.

Not surprisingly, the brilliance of our ULM family was on full display while we were developing the strategic plan. We knew that

our University was full of wildly intelligent people, and it showed. People identified critical issues, provided innovative solutions, and put our students and community in front of their own desires. One parameter that our team worked around was the idea that goals and initiatives should be both aspirational and also attainable. I feel confident that we were able to achieve just the right balance of both.

Early in the strategic planning process, we determined that it would be best for the “final” product to be a live document. We realized that the landscape in higher education changes quickly, and we need to be prepared to make adjustments as needs arise to allow us to be as impactful as possible. We are so committed to changing our region and beyond that we want to continuously adapt our plans to the needs we have and the challenges that we face.

One of the more fascinating things that came out of this process was that, even though we created this plan from the ground up, there was an obvious synergy between President Berry’s vision and the hopes and goals of our ULM family. Dr. Berry has been quoted as saying, “We have to own who we are, where we are, and what we must do.” It became evident that the ULM family embraced this call to action.

Through all of our planning, ULM captured a great understanding of who we are and what we need to do. Now, it’s time for us to determine when we do these things and how we do these things. The first part of the previous sentence is easy to determine:

“The University of Louisiana Monroe prepares individuals from northeast Louisiana and beyond to compete, succeed, and contribute in an ever-changing global society through a transformative education while positively impacting society through research and service.”

Mr. Lawson L. Swearingen, Jr. and Dr. Kitty DeGree unveil the first ULM logo with group in 1999.

photo provided by Special Collections & Archives

the time is NOW! We are ready to continue making an impact on our community. Now, we have the opportunity to see our students, faculty, staff, and community help execute the “how” of this strategic plan. There is no doubt that we will see creative, innovative, and thoughtful solutions to all of our strategic initiatives.

It was previously mentioned that ULM’s mission slogan is “Changing Lives.” The full mission statement is, “The University of Louisiana Monroe prepares individuals from northeast Louisiana and beyond to compete, succeed, and contribute in an ever-changing global society through a transformative education while positively impacting society through research and service.” Perfectly in line with our mission statement is our vision statement, which reads, “ULM will change lives by bringing true equality, inclusiveness, and opportunity for all individuals in our region and beyond.” Everything we do and every decision we make happens through the lens of this mission statement and vision statement.

The University is also characterized by our values and guiding principles. Our values include Academic Freedom and Responsibility, Diversity, Excellence, Integrity, Scholarship, and Service. Our guiding principles embrace Commitment, Accountability, Innovation, Efficiency, Collaboration, and Achievement. The initiatives found in the strategic plan overwhelmingly align with our values and guiding principles.

In the following pages of this magazine, you will see that we have arranged sections around the pillars of our strategic plan. Those pillars, and the essential goals within each, are as follows:

Student Success

Goal: Champion student success through innovative and transformative programs and experiences.

Faculty & Staff Distinction

Goal: Recruit, develop, and retain a diverse and qualified faculty and staff capable of achieving our mission of transformation.

Intellectual Activity

Goal: Maintain and support the level of intellectual activity necessary by our scholars to support innovation, preparation of students for successful careers and citizenship, and the creation and application of new knowledge.

Community Engagement

Goal: Expand community partnerships that improve the quality of life in our region, and expand economic opportunities for students, faculty, staff, and the community.

Athletic Excellence

Goal: Develop a culture of excellence and success among our athletic programs.

Walt Disney's vision of Disneyland is relevant here: “Disneyland will never be finished. It’s something we can keep developing and adding to…I’ve always wanted to work on something that’s alive, something that keeps growing. We’ve got that at Disneyland.”2 Likewise, ULM will keep developing, continue to grow, and never be finished with its mission. Our strategic plan is a map, a guide, a tool. But it takes people, trust in one another, and a belief that we can do so much more together. We hope that as you read this magazine, it will generate enthusiasm about the various roles we are playing at ULM to transform our ULM family, our region, and our world. ■

CHANGING LIVES

ULMMAGAZINE FALL 2022

ULM staff and students hand out care packages during the annual MLK Day of Service in 2021.

The Warhawk baseball team celebrates their first Sun Belt Conference Championship in 2012.

photo provided by Special Collections & Archives

photo by Siddharth Gaulee

STUDENT

ULMMAGAZINE FALL 2022

Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Valerie S. Fields speaks about the impact the HUB will have on student life.

photos by Jeanette Robinson

BY DR. VALERIE S. FIELDS

THE HUB

" We're excited for the completion of this construction as it will enhance my daily life and the life of my peers. The HUB sets a precedent for our beloved campus as we reflect our university's vision statement that changing lives by bringing true equality, inclusiveness, and opportunity for all individuals in our region and beyond for progress," shares Student Government Association President, University of Louisiana System Board Member, Ethan C. Estis.

In partnership with the Aramark food service team, ULM students have made

it possible for a state-of-the-art 23,000 square-foot facility to transform the corner of Northeast Dr. and University Avenue. Illuminating this corner is a great example of the university's guiding principles: commitment, accountability, innovation, efficiency, collaboration, and achievement.

Thomyan T. Turner, President of Campus Activities Board, stated, "Everyone, including me, has been raving about the HUB. Having the chance to finally be inside felt surreal. The HUB is a great addition to the university, and I am excited to be able to experience it first-hand!" ▶

“Our village serves the intellectual capacities that evolve outside of the classroom; the emotional, aesthetic, social, and moral adjustments and appreciations are attained largely through informal experiences and situations that will transform as students meet and greet in the HUB.”

– DR. VALERIE S. FIELDS

ULM SGA President Ethan Estis and Aramark President and COO Trevor Ferguson cut the ribbon during the HUB grand opening.

President Berry and Vice President of Enrollment Management and University Relations Lisa Miller chat with State Representative Francis Thompson at the HUB grand opening.

PILLAR I

STUDENT

Upstairs you will find comfortable furniture pieces designed with our commuter students in mind so they can gather and meet with their peers and utilize the whiteboards that will be available for quick study sessions and practicing group presentations. The Campus Activities Board will feature table topics in small groups with their committee heads, leading to ignite energy and excitement while dining, socializing, learning, and sharing all of the programs and activities the campus has to offer. An integral part of the ULM community, the HUB will enhance learning inside and outside of the classroom, a philosophy of education whereby all experiences are regarded as having educative aspects. We hope that the ULM family recognizes it takes a village.

Refreshments for the Grand Opening were provided by Aramark.

Amber Harris, Joyce Zhou, Roy Heatherly, and Brittany McNamara check out the HUB dining and seating.

photo by Paul Ware

The state-of-the-art $11.6 million, 23,000 square-foot facility is a partnership with Aramark and our students. Aramark graciously invested $6 million, with the remainder coming from student facilities fees.

"Our village serves the intellectual capacities that evolve outside of the classroom; the emotional, aesthetic, social, and moral adjustments and appreciations are attained largely through informal experiences and situations that will transform as students meet and greet in the HUB," according to Vice President for Student Affairs, Dr. Valerie S. Fields. She shared from a text written in 1951 that still speaks to student life today, that of educating the whole individual, neither the one nor the other can bear neglect.

Emphasizing the opportunities for creating community and cultivating learning, students gathering at the HUB will also encourage unselfish citizenship, the necessities of give and take and the satisfaction of working and playing together cooperatively. As President Berry often shares "We change lives to create a better world."

Students are excited about the Flip Kitchen that will showcase dishes in various intervals, from all over the world, with our international student in mind. Bento Sushi is another delight that will be made fresh daily, and other student favorites, Starbucks, Subway, Chick-fil-A, and a small market with fresh food and groceries can be found in the HUB.

The $11.6 million facility is a partnership with Aramark and our students. Aramark graciously invested $6 million in the project; the remainder was from student facilities fees. None of this could have been possible without the architect and designers, Tipton and Associates of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and the general contractor, Lincoln Builders. ■

(L-R) ULM CAB President Thomyan Turner, Miss ULM 2022 Asja Jordan, ULM SGA President Ethan Estis, VP for Student Affairs Dr. Valerie S. Fields

ULM Executive Director of Marketing and Com munications Dr. Brice Jones addresses the crowd at the grand opening.

photos by Jeanette Robinson

BY DR. JOYDEEP BHATTACHARJEE

PELICAN CUP

Striking upon a business idea is not something in the minds of most biologists. However, in recent years, the advent of newer application-based techniques and tools that ecologists use has opened up research trajectories that directly serve allied fields such as forestry and agriculture. Several years back, I started using drones in my research as a tool for the rapid assessment of forest health. One such idea I spun out in my lab was to use machine-learning to help us identify species of trees in a forest or to assess the stress levels of trees. For this project, I hired Paurava Thakore as a graduate student in my lab.

As he began working on this project, we realized that this work would have immense business applications, especially in the forestry and agriculture sector. With the business acumen that Paurava had, the Pelican Cup was an excellent opportunity to not only conceive a business plan but also to learn about the process and structure of starting a business. Pelican Cup positioned us to think about entrepreneurship within these fields more pragmatically, and the research we do in the lab can be translated to solutions solicited by local businesses.

Participating in the Pelican Cup has been

invaluable in solidifying the brand of Gaea (pronounced ‘ga-ya’) Environmental, a service-providing company we believe will directly meet the demand of businesses both locally and regionally. Worth mentioning were the interactions we had and words of encouragement from local business leaders, which helped us understand what it takes to launch a business and the efforts needed to succeed. Once again, we thank the organizers of the Pelican Cup competition that provided us with this platform. While we were pleasantly surprised that our business proposal won the First Place position in the competition, we continue to build and invest in the company, and we hope that Gaea Environmental will be a game-changer in how we look at managing our forests and agricultural fields.

Team leader Paurava Thakore (center) poses with team members Gannon Malone, Prabin Basnet and adviser Joydeep Bhattacharjee, Ph.D. (back) President Ron Berry, Dhu Thompson, and Dr. Michelle McEacharn

spotiT team leader Adesola Raphael Akinpelu celebrates a third place win with team members Stanislava Prosvietova and Valeryia Trubskaya.

PILLAR I

photo by Jansen Nowell

2022 FOUNDATION AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

Professor Emeritus

The highest honor in academia gives retired faculty members the opportunity to continue scholarly work.

DR. JOHN CARR

Carr dedicated 25 years of service to ULM as a biology professor. He is an internationally renowned researcher in the field of herpetology. A prolific writer and recognized expert on the alligator snapping turtle, Carr’s research has been cited more than 2000 times, according to Google Scholar. He has collected international field experience and contributed to the research of animals on four continents. His contributions to academia are monumental, and ULM is proud that many of those contributions have impacted the understanding of our region and state’s biodiversity.

DR. CHARLES “CHIP” HOLLOWAY

Holloway was a Spanish professor at ULM from 1990-2020. A skilled teacher, many

of Holloway’s students pursued language study to become language teachers, and several mentees went on to law school, graduate school, and medical school. His research has focused on Spanish dialects, specifically the dialect of the Isleño community in south Louisiana. His students have used their language and communication skills in a variety of occupations in Monroe and beyond.

Faculty Promoted to Professor DEBRA CRAIGHEAD

JANA GILES

PAULA GRISWOLD SCOT HUMES MEL MOBLEY

Faculty Promoted to Associate Professor with Tenure JASON AUSTIN

SANDY BAILEY REBECCA HAMM KENNETH LEPPERT WILLIAM ROGERS JASON SMITH

Faculty Promoted to Tenure THOMAS FOSTER

The Ken Clow Award for Excellence in Research

The award is named after the late marketing professor who published multiple books and more than 200 journal articles and proceedings.

DR. WILLIAM ROGERS

Associate professor of English –Rogers has contributed to the research of medieval English and is dedicated to open educational resources. Not only has he helped faculty discover and utilize these free and low-cost options, but he has also

Two professors were promoted to Professor Emeritus, five faculty members were promoted to professor, six faculty members were promoted to associate professor with tenure, and six faculty and staff members were presented with awards during the 2022 Foundation Awards for Excellence.

(L-R) Sandy Bailey, Debra Craighead, Jana Giles, Scot Humes, Paula Griswold, William Rogers, Rebecca Hamm, and Jason Smith pose with President Berry.

THE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA MONROE CELEBRATED THE SUCCESSES OF ITS FACULTY AND STAFF AT THE ANNUAL FOUNDATION AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE ON MONDAY, MAY 2, AT BAYOU POINTE EVENT CENTER.

PILLAR

photos by Paul Ware

photos by Paul Ware

empowered his students to create such resources for their own future students.

Florencetta Gibson Award for Excellence in Service

Named after the professor emerita of nursing, the award goes to a faculty member committed to serving the University in ways that positively impact the institution and community.

DR. BRUCE WALKER

Program coordinator and associate professor of management – A service-minded individual, Walker volunteers with Ouachita Green and has served six years as a board member of both the ULM Wesley Group and Pilots for Patients. Walker also created the Faculty Senate’s Ad Hoc Committee on Diversity, Awareness, and Inclusion and served as Faculty Senate Past President during the most recent school year.

Foundation Award for Excellence in Teaching DR. ANDY ALLEN

Clinical coordinator and associate

The ULM Jazz Ensemble, lead by Dr. Eric Siereveld, plays for the honorees and guests. Assistant professor of music –Siereveld is a skilled trumpet player who regularly performs with four music groups.

professor of radiologic technology – Allen was instrumental in the radiologic technology program’s curriculum revision by creating 13 new professional courses, launching engaging online lecture models, and writing a 14-chapter lab workbook with 31 experiments.

Foundation Award for Excellence in Creative and Innovative Works

DR. ERIC SIEREVELD

Assistant professor of music – Siereveld is a skilled trumpet player who regularly performs with four music groups. He recorded two albums of his own and contributed to seven other albums. Additionally, Siereveld created the Talons for Taps program, which provides ULM trumpet studio members to perform Taps for veterans’ funeral services at no cost.

Alma Sewell Award for Service by Unclassified Staff

Named after the staff member who dedicated more than four decades of service to ULM, the award goes to an employee who is an inspiration for their exemplary service, on- or off-campus.

CHRISTINA DAVIS

Senior business consultant for the Louisiana Small Business Development Center – Davis, has certified over 50 small businesses with the Louisiana Economic Development Center at ULM and conducts business workshops for area companies. During the pandemic, Davis has worked tirelessly to ensure local businesses stay afloat, providing the necessary resources to her clients and lending a listening ear.

Judy Smith Award for Warhawk Spirit

A new award, the Judy Smith Award for Warhawk Spirit, is named after the late assistant director of the Office of Financial Aid, who demonstrated selfless dedication to student fulfillment.

MELISSA KIPER BALDWIN

Instructor of marketing – Baldwin is involved outside the classroom as a faculty adviser of student groups and committee member for various student-focused committees. Before holding her current role, Baldwin led the ULM Alumni Association, where she grew membership by 20 percent and hosted 25 events on campus. ■

ULMMAGAZINE

2022

FACULTY & STAFF DISTINCTION

President Berry addresses award winners and guests at the Foundation Awards for Excellence.

President Berry poses with Foundation for Excellence honorees Christina Davis, Dr. Eric Siereveld, Dr. Andy Allen, Dr. William Rogers, Melissa Kiper Baldwin, and Dr. Bruce Walker

BY DANIELLE KELLEY TOLBIRD

PILLAR III

PILOT PROGRAM DEVELOPS

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS INTO EDUCATORS

University of Louisiana Monroe professor Dr. Amy Weems won the Educators Rising Champion Award at the organization’s conference on June 26 in Washington, D.C. Dr. Weems is an assistant professor of education and launched the Louisiana Educators Rising pilot program three years ago at Neville, Oak Grove and Wossman high schools.

The goal of Educators Rising is to encourage students to choose education as a career path by offering college credit opportunities, mentor relationships with college professors and leadership development sessions.

“Helping to repair our teaching workforce

pipeline is one of the most challenging yet inspiring experiences of my entire career,” Weems said. “I have been collaborating with stakeholders across Louisiana and the US to advocate for sustainable workforce solutions for almost four years, and we still have many more years of work ahead.”

Weems developed a pilot program called the Pre-Educator Pathway for the Louisiana Department of Education. ULM was the first institution of higher education in the state to offer the program to high school students to give them an early start toward teacher certification upon graduation.

“Grow-your-own programs capitalize

“Helping to repair our teaching workforce pipeline is one of the most challenging yet inspiring experiences of my entire career.”

– DR. AMY WEEMS

Executives from Regions Bank present the ULM Educators Rising program with a $100,000 grant. The five-year grant will provide two Regions Bank ULM Educators Rising Program Scholarships per year and assist in retaining students in the School of Education.

photo by Jeanette Robinson

Jamecia Washington (left) is the first student in Louisiana to receive a scholarship from a $100,000 Educators Rising grant from Regions Bank. ULM Assistant Professor of Educa tion Dr. Amy Weems (right) created the Educators Rising pilot program called the PreEducator Pathway, which Washington successfully completed at Wossman High School.

on participants having personal knowledge of communities and schools in which they serve. This is particularly important for promoting culturally responsive educational opportunities and for teacher retention,” Weems said.

Regions Bank saw the need for ULM to train more teachers and awarded a $100,000 grant to support scholarships for deserving education students who completed the PreEducator Pathway in high school. Incoming ULM secondary education freshman Jamecia Washington is the first student to receive a $6,000 scholarship from the fund.

Washington joined Educators Rising during her 10th-grade year at Wossman High School at the height of the pandemic. She attended every meeting virtually and found guidance from Weems.

“Dr. Weems was my mentor throughout the Educators Rising program. She had a huge impact on my education by giving me opportunities to learn more about children’s education. She showed me how teaching can

be a wonderful job in the future,” Washington said. “I love helping others learn.”

Weems’ pilot program was so successful that she expanded the participating high schools to five districts: Caldwell, Franklin, Livingston, Richland, Monroe City and Ouachita. Now, other universities have followed the ULM School of Education’s lead to inspire teenagers to become teachers. McNeese State University, University of Louisiana Lafayette and LSU Shreveport are now also using Weems’ Pre-Educator Pathway to increase the number of educators in the state.

“The award recognizes our Educators Rising champions who have consistently promoted Educators Rising in their area and are continuing to support the teaching profession through the Grow Your Own programs. We are happy to present this award to Amy for her commitment to inspiring, developing and supporting the next generation of educators,” said Robyn Mintier, director of membership for Educators Rising. ■

ULMMAGAZINE

COLLEGE OF HEALTH &

INTELLECTUAL

Louisiana Principal of the Year 2019 Eric Davis, Ed. D., Principal of Carroll High School, delivers the keynote address at the Educators Rising event.

Special guest Kevin Smith of Regions Bank encourages students in their choice to pursue education as a lifework and offers insight into Regions’ commitment to invest in Educators Rising.

photo by Paul Ware

BY CATHI HEMED

PILLAR III

FROM CLASSROOMS TO THE INDUSTRY LEADERS

The College of Business and Social Sciences (CBSS) supports student career development through many channels. One is concentrated on helping them secure internships around the world in their desired field. These life-changing experiences are geared toward student growth and focus on challenging our future leaders with real-world exposure and handson involvement. Faculty and staff work enthusiastically outside the classrooms to network with industry leaders and companies to create these opportunities for their students, knowing how fundamental it can

be to accomplishing their career goals.

Senior Jalen Nguyen of the Risk Management and Insurance program interned with Orchid Underwriters, LLC in Tampa and Vero Beach, FL, as well as Brown and Riding Insurance Services, Inc. out of Dallas, TX.

She credits the RMI program and faculty with connecting her to the opportunity and allowing her to work with industry professionals to shape her career path.

CBSS graduate in Political Science, and current MPA student, Kade Smith interned

“I am proud to be a student of ULM for the care and support it has shown us throughout our internship journey.”

– PRABIN BASNET

Dr. Christine Berry speaks to Risk Management & Insurance students about adjusting loss experience for future development.

photo by Siddharth Gaulee

with Congresswoman Julia Letlow and wants to become an urban planner and city designer one day. "I could not be more thankful for the guidance and instruction that I have received from my faculty mentors over the past three years, as I would have never achieved this honor without them."

Internships are supported generously by the College's unique Internship Support Fund which allows alumni and friends of ULM to support current CBSS students through private donations. These funds are used to provide housing in areas where the student may not be able to afford to live, travel to the internship destination, or other needs that may have prevented the student from being able to accept the internship opportunity in the past.

Many ULM Computer Science majors were awarded these support funds to allow them to travel to and live in New Orleans this summer to take part in an internship with DXC Technology. Senior Prabin Basnet credits the Internship Support Fund and the work of CBSS administration and faculty for making this possible. "I am thankful to the College of Business and Social Sciences for helping us, a group of 11 interns, emotionally and financially to make this 2022 summer internship at DXC Technology successful. I am proud to be a student of ULM for the care and support it has shown us throughout our internship journey."

For more information or to donate to the Internship Support Fund for the College of Business and Social Sciences, please contact the ULM Foundation. ■

INTELLECTUAL

ULMMAGAZINE FALL 2022

Hemphill Hall was named for Colonel William Hemphill, a retired Lieutenant Colonel and head of the aviation department from 1983 to 1993. It houses the School of Business and Social Sciences.

Construction Management students listen to Joshua Tellifero talk about his role as an Assistant Project Manager at Brasfield & Gorrie, LLC.

photo by Jeanette Robinson

photo by Molly Masters

Order

Commemorative Brick today!

your legacy and become a part of ULM forever! The University of Louisiana Monroe invites you to add your personal touch to the Scott Plaza Fountain. Purchase your Commemorative ULM Brick to:

CELEBRATE commencements or other milestones

a family member or influential person in

a meaningful message for future generations of

photo by Jeanette Robinson

BY DR. WENDY BAILES

KITTY DEGREE SCHOOL OF NURSING HELD ITS INAUGURAL BOOT CAMP

Nursing - The University of Louisiana Monroe, Kitty DeGree School of Nursing (KDSON) continues to demonstrate why the Best is on the Bayou! Summer 2022 was a time of “firsts” in the School.

In June, the KDSON held its inaugural University of Louisiana Monroe Kitty Degree School of Nursing Summer Boot Camp. A three-day summer workshop allowed high school students in grades 9-12 an opportunity to experience the role of the professional nurse in a clinical immersion. Under the leadership of Dr. Kathy Kennedy, KDSON nursing faculty and professional students facilitated hands-on experiences for forty-two camp participants from northeast Louisiana and one participant who came all the way from Georgia! This year’s activities included: basic assessment and first aid skills, CPR training, career opportunities discussions with practicing professional nurses from a variety of nursing specialties, realistic clinical skills in a simulation laboratory, mock disaster training, and so much more.

The week ended with a Family Banquet where students were joined by family and friends to celebrate the completion of the inaugural KDSON Summer Boot Camp. The keynote speaker was Carter Saterfiel, BSN, RN. Carter graduated from KDSON this past May and is employed by St. Francis Medical Center in Monroe, Louisiana. Carter spoke very passionately about How to Achieve Your Dream. Patience, resilience, and perseverance are character traits that will help you overcome any trials that may

hinder your progress. Just never stop believing in yourself and your ability to achieve your dream! Dr. Wendy Bailes, School Director for KDSON, states, “This year’s boot camp was so successful that we will expand it more in 2023 with a two-tiered approach.”

In July, KDSON received a Notice of Award from the Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) regarding the Nursing Student Loan (NSL) Program. Dr. Wendy Bailes, School Director for KDSON, applied for the award in the first part of 2022. Dr. Bailes stated, “As we continued to see students struggling financially to make ends meet while attending a very rigorous program, I began to look for opportunities that would help.

This opportunity would not have been possible without the full support of Dr. Donald Simpson, Dean of the College of Health Sciences, Dr. Bill Graves, VicePresident for Business Affairs, and the President of our University, Dr. Ron Berry. Because of this support, I was able to ask for $700,000.00 for the undergraduate program and $300,000.00 for the graduate program.”

As a result, students in the professional program will have the opportunity through the NSL Program to acquire additional funds (beyond their current financial aid) to help with the cost of being in a professional program. These loans are explicitly dedicated to professional students currently in the undergraduate and graduate programs at KDSON.

High school students in grades 9-12 gather around as Air Evac Lifteam members talk about rescue operations using aviation.

PILLAR III

“This year’s boot camp was so successful that we will expand it more in 2023 with a two-tiered approach.”

– DR. WENDY BAILES

photos by Paul Ware

BY DANIELLE KELLEY TOLBIRD

PILLAR III

THE LARGEST AWARD IN A DECADE

The University of Louisiana Monroe College of Pharmacy received a fully-funded grant to provide harm reduction education to first responders and decrease opioid overdose deaths in the state of Louisiana. The grant is the largest award the university has been given in over a decade.

The US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration awarded the $2,475,408 four-year grant to Dr. Alexis Horace, associate professor of clinical practice. Her research team includes ULM faculty members Dr. Oscar Garza, Dr. Stephen Hill, Dr. Jameshia Below, and Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine pharmacology chair Dr. Stephanie Anderson.

The grant will fund a training program called ULM HERO, which stands for Harm Reduction Education and Referral for Opioid Overdose Reversal. Horace and her team will lead educational programs for first responders and community members in Ouachita Parish, Orleans Parish, and surrounding rural parishes. Participating first responders will learn how to administer opioid reversal medications like naloxone and refer people who use opioids to treatment and recovery centers.

“There is a stigma with people who use opioids which keeps them from seeking help from first responders, and also a stigma first responders may have with people who use opioids. This grant will bridge that gap and help people save lives,” Horace said. “This will arm our first responders with the resources to help guide people who are willing to go to treatment centers. It’s not just giving first

ULM AWARDED $2.5 MILLION GRANT FOR LOUISIANA HARM REDUCTION EDUCATION

The grant will fund a training program called ULM HERO, which stands for Harm Reduction Education and Referral for Opioid Overdose Reversal.

photos by Paul Ware

responders naloxone, but giving them the information and a network to help folks enter treatment centers.”

Her first step in the grant is hiring key staff and building the educational curriculum for a diverse group of first responders with her team.

“The term ‘first responders’ is defined broadly. We have our traditional first responders, like police officers, EMS, firefighters, and FEMA. We will target those organizations with our harm reduction education course,” Horace explained. “The second group of first responders is those that live in our communities. It is the person who is the first to respond to a scene. It may not necessarily be medical personnel, but a friend or a family member.”

The ULM HERO program will also educate first-responders-in-training, as well as key community organizations. To reach citizens, Horace’s team will host 50 community events to provide risk reduction education in underserved communities.

“We want to provide people who live in medical deserts with education about

opioids,” she said.

Horace teaches at the ULM College of Pharmacy’s satellite campus in New Orleans, where she leads a team of fourth-year rotation students at CrescentCare, a community health center. She said she was inspired to write the grant because of the passion exhibited by her ULM student-pharmacists who participate in CrescentCare’s New Orleans Syringe Access Program.

“A student approached me and said she wanted to do a research project on addiction and syringe access. We began providing naloxone education and distribution at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, and during that time, I became very passionate about it,” she said.

Horace’s goal is to provide education to 4,000 first responders in Louisiana by 2026 and to increase the program’s collaborations with local treatment and recovery centers by 80 percent.

“My team and I are ready to help our first responders in our community and make a big change in Louisiana,” she said. “It’s going to be used, and it’s going to save lives.”

ULMMAGAZINE

“There is a stigma with people who use opioids which keeps them from seeking help from first responders, and also a stigma first responders may have with people who use opioids. This grant will bridge that gap and help people save lives.”

– DR. ALEXIS HORACE

Dr. Alexis Horace is an Associate Professor of Pharmacy. She teaches at the ULM College of Pharmacy’s satellite campus in New Orleans, where she leads a team of fourth-year rotation students at CrescentCare, a community health center.

BY ASJA JORDAN PILLAR IV

CROWN AS A

AND

On November 5th, 2021, I was crowned Miss ULM 2022. At this moment, I knew I was right where I needed to be. It confirmed what I knew my last year at ULM was supposed to look like--a year of SERVICE. As a first-generation high school graduate in my family, my time spent pursuing higher education has been pivotal in helping me become the woman I am today.

Throughout my reign, I have strived to further the mission of my Social Impact Initiative, Potential to Kinetic (P2K), which is to be a catalyst for positive change through three pillars: physical health, mental health, and community service. My platform is based on the idea that we all have potential. And sometimes, that potential is left untapped, and we need a catalyst to help us realize that potential.

Prior to becoming Miss ULM, I was already very active in the Monroe/West Monroe community. From serving on boards and committees to hosting community yoga/fitness classes, and spearheading my own community service projects—I felt my role as Miss ULM could be pivotal in deepening the connection between the campus and the community.

During my reign, I have hosted several projects that cultivated community engagement. For example, I hosted a Food Drive to support the Food Bank of NELA, partnered with Ouachita Green to host campus clean-ups, and led a summer camp, Warrior Princess Week.

Warrior Princess Week served as a youthmentorship camp, free for young girls ages 7-11. The mission of this project was to teach the importance of courage, strength, and confidence. I wanted to show young girls they could become the strongest versions of themselves no matter what life circumstances they are faced with! We did yoga, took tours around campus, and discussed character and self-esteem. At the end of the week, the girls graduated with a crown and a sash that said “Warrior Princess 2022”, and they got to take home their very own yoga mat and journal. This was by far my favorite project I have ever done as an individual and as Miss ULM. It truly captured my love for health, wellness, personal growth, and this university.

When I became Miss ULM, I wanted my reign to leave a legacy. Not just on our campus and in our community but in the hearts of those around me. The first journal entry I wrote when I became Miss ULM stated,

“May I lead as a servant, and my reign impact the lives of those around me. Let the glamour not go to my head, but the job permeate my heart. For at the end of the day, the crown and sash will come off, but a spirit of service must remain.”

The crown has been a catalyst, a connector, but above all else, it was a calling I am so glad I had the opportunity to answer. Thank you, ULM, for letting me serve you!

photo by Paul Ware

Ouachita Green is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting our natural environment, preventing blight, environmental education and participating in community enhancement projects that make Ouachita Parish a cleaner and greener community to live in. Serving as the umbrella organization for Keep Monroe Beautiful, Keep Ouachita Parish Beautiful and Keep West Monroe Beautiful, Ouachita Green provides organization and planning for beautification projects, litter abatement, fundraising events and educational efforts for these three Keep Louisiana Beautiful affiliates.

The efforts of Ouachita Green are truly making an impact in our region of the state. In 2021 alone, Ouachita Green volunteers collected more than 90 tons of litter, held 64 events, completed five beautification projects, planted 92 trees and 348 plants and kicked off the “Love Where You Live” internship

OUACHITA GREEN MAKING AN IMPACT IN OUR REGION

program for local high school students.

Volunteers are the heart of our organization. The commitment of time and effort dedicated to the community through Ouachita Green volunteers and partnering organizations is a testament to the tremendous residents of Ouachita Parish. Last year Ouachita Green engaged over 3,000 volunteers totaling over 9,800 volunteer hours which contributed to beautifying Ouachita Parish.

Among this outstanding group of volunteers, you will find University of Louisiana at Monroe students at nearly every event held throughout the year. ULM graduate student Asja Jordan, who currently serves as Miss ULM, has been serving as a Keep West Monroe Beautiful Board Member for nearly three years. Chris Williams and his team at Greek Life host campus cleanups on a regular basis. We are always thrilled to see ULM students at Ouachita Green events working together and investing themselves in the community they are currently calling home.

ULM students have volunteered with Ouachita Green for many years from all aspects of the campus, ranging from student-athletes to pharmacy students. These young men and women truly embody the spirit of community involvement. They roll up their sleeves, and no matter the job, they work hard and do their best to make our community a better place to live. We not only see this from ULM students, but also from many staff members.

ULM faculty and staff consistently volunteer with our organization and encourage their

students to do the same. Some of the recent projects that ULM students have participated in include the Lazarre Park Tree Planting, America Recycles Day, Household Hazardous Waste, Love the Boot Week, To The Zoo Community Cleanup and so many more. ULM encourages students to get involved and make a difference. We couldn’t be more grateful for these hardworking students and their efforts to make a difference in Ouachita Parish!

To learn more about Ouachita Green or to get involved in our annual community events, please visit ouachitagreen.org or follow us on social media. ■

ULM volunteers in front of the library.

Ouachita Green volunteers smile for a photo.

ULM softball student-athletes help with an abatement project.

BY AUNDI BROWN

photos courtesy of Ouachita Green

PILLAR IV

Students and faculty from the ULM Athletic Department helped distribute food at the Food Bank’s senior distribution.

Students from the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) gave their time by volunteering at the Food Bank’s warehouse and distributions.

BY TAYLOR COSTA

PILLAR IV

FOOD BANK

PROVIDING FOOD, HOPE, AND DIGNITY

Astrong, caring community that ensures no one goes hungry– That is the Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana’s vision, and it takes all of us to make it possible.

The Food Bank opened its doors in 1997 with two part-time employees and a volunteer director. Since then, the Food Bank has grown to be the largest hunger-relief organization in the region and serves nearly 30,000 people each month in the 12 parishes of Northeast Louisiana.

The Food Bank brought in food from national and local sources, and provided the equivalent of 6-million meals to our neighbors facing hunger last year. The bulk of this food is distributed though our network of over 50 partner agencies who operate food pantries and meal programs. In addition, the Food Bank operates five programs that directly provide food to local children, families and seniors.

Partnerships are the cornerstone of the Food Bank’s operations, and one of those

is a long relationship with our friends at the University of Louisiana Monroe. Each year, ULM students and faculty give their time by volunteering at the Food Bank’s warehouse and distributions. Students and faculty also support the Food Bank’s hunger-relief efforts by hosting food drives and participating in advocacy events to help raise awareness about the issue of hunger.

In addition, ULM Ceramics Instructor Megan Smith and students make and donate ceramic bowls for the Food Bank’s Annual Empty Bowls Event. This event helps provide meals to thousands of neighbors struggling to put food on the table.

“We are grateful for ULM’s support and for the energy they bring when they volunteer with us,” said Jean Toth, Executive Director of the Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana. “We look forward to this continued partnership for years to come.”

If you would like to get involved in making a difference in our community, visit foodbanknela.org. ■

photos courtesy of Foodbank

“We are grateful for ULM’s support and for the energy they bring when they volunteer with us.”

– JEAN TOTH

Adrian Fisher and his family see ULM as a quality university with great programs. Three of his children followed their parents' steps and became a part of the Warhawk family.

photo courtesy by Adrian Fisher

BY JAMIE HANKS

PILLAR IV

ADRIAN FISHER

AMERICAN POLITICIAN, BUSINESSMAN, AND PASTOR

Having graduated from Carroll High School in 1989, Adrian Fisher originally pursued a Bachelor of Science in Accounting after he was positively influenced by a family friend. He saw firsthand how this path would provide a solid foundation for operating his own business in order to achieve his true passion in life. That passion was an innate desire to help others improve their lives.

Returning to Monroe after graduating from Southern University in 1993, he was one of the founders of Cognitive Development Center. Adrian took notice that many of the staff members his center hired had completed the graduate degree in counseling at ULM. He found that they were well prepared and clinically sound. Knowing the program produced quality scholars, in addition to the location and convenience, choosing ULM to pursue that same program was an easy choice, and he graduated in that field in 2004. He continues to utilize the University to draw from its talent pool to provide much-needed services that allow Cognitive Development Center to have a regional and statewide reach.

On a personal level, Adrian first met his wife, LaTondra, in junior high but became serious after finishing their undergraduate degrees. She stayed in Monroe, finishing a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in clinical mental health counseling from ULM. Together, the couple established the Living Waters Ministries International (a nondenominational church) in 2010.

When it was time to plant deeper roots, it was an easy choice to stay in Northeast Louisiana for their growing family. In

fact, three of their college-aged children followed in their parent’s footsteps by becoming Warhawks. Being like-minded as their father, Adrian says they recognize ULM as he does – a quality university that offers great programs with equally great professors.

As a proud father of eight children and one grandchild, this 28-year small business owner still found time to carry out his altruistic passion—helping individuals find purpose and turn that purpose into their life’s destiny—by running for public office. Timing was a major factor in announcing his candidacy for a seat in the house of representatives. More importantly, Adrian realized he would rather be at the table where crucial legislative decisions are being made. After being elected in 2021, he is most proud to have the opportunity to be actively engaged in problem-solving discussions while helping our region continue on an upward trajectory.

Adrian admits that this role comes with challenges, deeming the toughest we face as not being able to compromise on sensitive issues. He states, “We have to learn how to effectively communicate with people who have views and beliefs different from our own. Communities and states are ineffective when we are divided to extremes on either side, but we must be willing to compromise to keep people engaged in the process. It’s only when all willing parties are engaged in any process that progress can be made.”

Outside his busy work life, you can find him fishing or at a local recreation center playing table tennis. He also unwinds at home with a good family dinner while challenging one another with web-based word games. He is an active participant in his church and is further involved in community activities with the Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. ■

"We have to learn how to effectively communicate with people who have views and beliefs different from our own."

– ADRIAN FISHER

MEMBER OF THE LOUISAINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE 16TH DISTRICT

BY JOHN LEWANDOWSKI

PILLAR IV

WARHAWK ROADSHOW

GROWS IN POPULARITY

The Warhawk Roadshow was a collaborative effort by ULM Advancement, Alumni Association, Recruitment and Athletics Department to bring campus messaging to our stakeholders throughout the state and region. The tour was promoted as “Bringing the Bayou to You.”

During the summer of 2022, the Warhawk Roadshow made tour stops in Shreveport, Houston, Dallas, Alexandria, Covington and Baton Rouge before the finale, The Pursuit, was held before a sold out crowd in excess of 400 at the Bayou Pointe Event Center on Thursday, Aug. 4. The Pursuit was sponsored by Cadence and BancorpSouth.

“After taking all things ULM on the road to our partners and alumni, we were excited to return home for The Pursuit to share our message of changing lives with our local ULM family,” ULM President Dr. Ron Berry said. “It was an opportunity to preview our athletic programs for 2022-23 as well as push our ‘Warhawk Way’ forward in pursuit of excellence on and off the field.”

“The Warhawk Roadshow has become a valuable engagement asset for the University and our athletic programs,” second-year ULM head football coach Terry Bowden said. “It’s been neat to watch our various campus units come together to develop programming to carry messaging directly to our stakeholders.

“We had great attendance the first year for the Berry-Bowden Roadshow, but the crowds were even better the second time around with the rebranded Warhawk Roadshow. It’s exciting to see more and more alumni becoming reconnected with ULM, especially from cities like Houston, Dallas, Shreveport, Alexandria,

Baton Rouge, and New Orleans. It’s vitally important for ULM as an institution as well as from an athletic standpoint. We want our alumni to be actively engaged in our University and to invest in ULM, so we can ensure the same wonderful experience for future students as it was for them.

“There’s no better way to get alumni back on campus than home football games, so they can reconnect with college friends at tailgate parties or Homecoming events,” Bowden continued. “This University helped shape who they are, and every time our alumni return to this beautiful campus, they fall in love with this place all over again.”

In addition to previewing the upcoming 2022 season, Bowden took the opportunity to share with audiences his professional and

personal development program for football student-athletes, encouraging the pursuit of academic and athletic excellence as well as spiritual and service-oriented growth.

“I have enjoyed sharing the ‘Warhawk Way,’ our off-the-field professional development program, with audiences around the state and region,” Bowden said. “I’m also glad to know that the program we’re implementing has caught the attention of Dr. Berry, who envisions this being a valuable tool for all ULM students. Our mission isn’t simply to educate our students, but it’s to help prepare the future leaders in our communities.

“As a football program, we talk about developing first-class men and world-class leaders. I believe Dr. Berry also wants to foster an environment that helps develop

Coach Terry Bowden and Dr. Ron Berry

(Left) Rosey Neitz Restani, Coach Terry Bowden, Rhonda Gray, Rita Neitz Howard Garcia

(Right) JP and Lynette Pierce

first-class men and women as well as worldclass leaders. We want students to graduate from ULM with a different understanding of their responsibilities in society. We don’t want graduates who only become successful in their chosen profession, but we want them to use their success to positively impact the lives of others. The ‘Warhawk Way’ is something that can prepare all students, not just our studentathletes, to become difference makers in the local communities.”

With the rebranded Warhawk Roadshow, several other head coaches, including J.D. Malone (track and field), Molly Fichtner (softball), Brooks Donald Williams (women’s basketball), and Keith Richard (men’s basketball), as well as Athletics Department administrators made appearances along the route.

The Warhawk Roadshow also became an important marketing tool for ULM football season-ticket sales. Ticket purchases were made at each of the first six tour stops. Prior to ULM’s Sept. 10 season opener against Nicholls, the ULM Athletics Department announced that football season tickets had more than tripled from last year. ■

ULMMAGAZINE FALL 2022

MISS ULM ATHLETIC EXCELLENCE

Coach Terry Bowden, Walter and Tamara Lamb

Olivia Bailey, Dr. Christine Berry, Kat Oubre

David Miller, Lisa Miller, Larry Thomas

(Left) Darin Davis, Hunter Henson

(Right) Guinn and Kathy Brakefield Sowell, Coach Terry Bowden, Julie Harlan O’Brien

Coach Bowden speaking to Shreveport Roadshow attendees.

photo by Paul Ware

BY JOHN LEWANDOWSKI

PILLAR V

BEST SEMESTERS FOR

ULM STUDENT-ATHLETES

ULM student-athletes completed the spring 2022 semester with a combined grade-point average of 3.36 as 13 of the Warhawks’ 15 teams posted better than a 3.0 GPA. It marked one of the best semesters for ULM student-athletes since 2016.

Six teams recorded at least a 3.5 or higher GPA for the spring semester, led by beach volleyball (3.89) and followed by tennis (3.80), softball (3.65), soccer (3.64), women’s golf (3.52) and women’s cross country (3.50).

In addition, 11 of the 15 teams improved their overall GPAs from the fall 2021 to the spring 2022 semester. The women’s cross country team displayed the greatest improvement, improving +0.43 from 3.07 to 3.50, followed by football (+0.42 from 2.42 to 2.84) and women’s track (+0.34 from 2.94 to 3.28). The ULM football team finished with its highest combined semester GPA at 2.84 since at least 2016.

The spring 2022 President’s List (full-time undergraduate students with at least a 3.9 GPA) featured 92 student-athletes. Another 61 student-athletes were named on the Dean’s List (full-time undergraduate students with at least a 3.5 GPA.

Forty-eight student-athletes participated in ULM’s 2022 spring commencement ceremonies.

“Our mission remains to invest in our student-athletes, so they have an opportunity to become champions in the classroom, in competition and in our community,” former ULM Athletics Director Scott McDonald said.

“Our head coaches have made a commitment to graduating student-athletes,” ULM Senior Woman Administrator and Coordinator of Academic Counseling Carmen Wright said. “That commitment begins from the first recruiting contact and it continues throughout the student-athlete’s playing career and beyond. Our coaches don’t pay lip service to academic success; they’re truly committed to it. The student-athletes are held accountable for their work in the academic arena, and our

coaches provide positive reinforcement by acknowledging a job well done.

“Commencement weekend is always both satisfying and gratifying as these studentathletes achieved an important milestone in their lives.”

In 2021-22, ULM ranked third in the Sun Belt Conference in volunteerism, logging more than 2,600 community service hours (estimated at more than $79,000 according to the value of volunteer time as determined by the Independent Sector with the Do Good Institute).

ULM led all NCAA Division I softball programs in community service hours at 1,040.

“The greatest gift you can give someone is your time because it is the only thing in life you can’t get back,” ULM softball coach Molly Fichtner said. “Our young ladies love this community, and they’re constantly looking for ways to give their time. It’s truly special.”

Baseball (534 1/2 hours) and women’s soccer (310) finished second and third, respectively, among Warhawk sports in community service hours. ■

ULM volleyball players huddle together to chant before a game. From left to right, Madeline Villarreal, Kaitlin Davis, Cali Assaley, Madeline Hogan, and Kailey Friedrich

Softball players embrace after a triumphant win.

photo by Siddharth Gaulee

photo by Paul Ware

ulm.edu/alumni

Stay Connected, Get Involved, Change the Future with Us!

Over the next 3-5 years the Alumni Association will grow its membership and increase member value by implementing programs that benefit all groups of alumni and creating inclusive events. We are partnering with Student Development to connect the ULM talent network to like-minded Ouachita Parish organizations and promote alumni owned business. You will see us at Greek Life events, you will see us in your local community, and you will see alumni participate in the recruiting process. What a time to be on the Bayou!

ALUMNI MISSION To support ULM in “changing lives,” the Alumni Association connects, engages, and fosters relationships with current and future alumni to one another and the University through communications, events, and programs.

ULM ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

President - Ash Aulds

VP Administration - Joseph Beard

VP Programs & Events - Renee Hebert

VP Finance - Justin Mailhes

Secretary - Mary Linda McCann

Past President - Julie O'Brien

MEMBERS AT LARGE DeAndre Alexander Keith Beard Monica Butler DeJaneiro Davis Lacy Durham Maggie Generoso Dakota Hawkins Nick LeBas Dr. Toni Lowe K. Shawn McCoy Spencer Moore D'Mario Payne Laurie Payne David Smith Rogia Williams Levi McKelphin

ULM ALUMNI CHAPTER & CLUB LEADERS

Acadiana - Brenda Dudley Atlanta - Devin Girod Birmingham - Jennifer Shaw

Baton Rouge - Melinda Robinson, Antonio Williams

BULM - Lavelle Hendricks CENLA - TBA

Central Arkansas - Jeff Hood

Choir Club - Deborah Chandler Dallas - Ft. Worth - TBA Franklin Parish - Glen Williams

Honors Program - Josh Stockley Houston - Ginger Bertrand & Dusty Thibodeaux

Jackson - Jennifer Handsford Lincoln/Union Parish - TBA LClub - Stacy Weldon

New Orleans - La'Tasha Atkins & Clint Thibodeaux

NWLA - Tammy Stanfill Ouachita Parish - Leah Sumrall

Pharmacy Club - Mary Rhea & Katie Scogin

Richland, E/W Carroll, Morehouse - Ginger Griffin

RMI - Jennifer Hisaw

Sound of Today - Trey Wilson Washington DC - Alex Holland Waterski - Brian Swenz

As the Semester begins, 31 Ambassadors welcome our newest future alumni to the University during Week of Welcome at Convocation. They greet freshmen students with “future alumni” buttons and giveaways as they enter the Coliseum.

CONVOCATION

Visit with alumni and friends of ULM at the Alumni Tailgate spot in the Pecan Grove! Unlimited drinks and food from your local favorites - YOU CAN’T BEAT IT! Active members get in FREE!

The Teacher Leader Summit is an annual professional development conference which brings together Louisiana birth to grade 12 educators and content experts. The Alumni Association teams up with other Alumni Associations throughout the state and co-hosts the “Educator Alumni Mixer”.

Golden Society is a reunion honoring graduates celebrating their 50year anniversary. Recipients are recognized with a new diploma and commemorative token of appreciation. The reunion takes place every spring and includes University guest speakers and a photo opportunity with their “new” diploma.

Every other year, the L-Club inducts alumni athletes, coaches, and advocates into the ULM Sports Hall of Fame. These inductees are elite representatives of the University and exude the Warhawk Way from their time as a student to present. The Hall of Fame is displayed at Fant-Ewing Coliseum.

L-CLUB HALL OF FAME

ULM Homecoming weekend is an exciting time for students, alumni and the community! The ULM Alumni Board hosts its annual meeting and the Association hosts a brunch recognizing outstanding alumni through the Golden Arrow Award and the Rising Young Alumni Award.

The Alumni Association recently introduced Spirit Packages for purchase at commencement. All packages include an Alumni Association membership and ULM gear. What a wonderful way to give back and celebrate your graduate!

Tailgating isn’t just for football! Join the Alumni staff for food and drinks at a baseball and softball game each season. Go Warhawks!

The BULM (Black ULM) Alumni Club hosts their reunion every two years in different locations throughout the country. This year it was hosted in Monroe, and will be here again in 2024!

BULM ALUMNI REUNION

JUNETEENTH ON THE LAWN

This annual Juneteenth celebration commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. Hosted at the Laird Weems Center, this social was sponsored by the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, International and Multicultural Affairs and the ULM Alumni Association.

The Alumni Association participates in Parent’s Orientation each summer to reconnect with alumni and welcome friends of ULM to campus at our Parent’s Happy Hour. All parents or guardians of a ULM future alumni are welcome!

PREP & POP

This annual golf tournament is hosted by ULM Alumni Association NWLA Chapter members. All proceeds benefit ULM scholarships and awards. This Chapter has an annual endowed scholarship and contributes over $7,000 annually to ULM students.

ALUMNI TAILGATING IN THE GROVE

WARHAWK CLASSIC

BASEBALL & SOFTBALL ALUMNI TAILGATES

GOLDEN SOCIETY

EDUCATOR ALUMNI MIXER AT TEACHER LEADER SUMMIT

Enjoy an evening of food, beer, live music from ULM students along the banks of Bayou DeSiard at Hawktoberfest. Boasting a variety of craft beer and a commemorative souvenir Hawktoberfest beer stein, this event is one not to be missed!

HAWKTOBERFEST

T-SHIRT SWAP

This event was started by the 31 Ambassadors to increase Warhawk pride on campus! If you bring another college’s tshirt, the 31 Ambassadors will provide you a FREE, CUSTOM ULM tshirt. This occurs once a semester.

Wine Over Water is a party on the beautiful ULM campus and Bayou DeSiard Bridge. You’ll enjoy food sampling from your favorite local restaurants, wine & beer tastings, live entertainment, boat rides, and more! Proceeds from Wine Over Water support “The Spirit of The Warhawk” scholarship, which was started by the Ouachita Parish Alumni Chapter, Alumni Chapters & Clubs, and the ULM Alumni Association.

Athletics, Recruitment, Alumni Association and Advancement departments teamed up to bring the Bayou to your region! This summer, we connected with over 200 alumni in Dallas/Ft. Worth, Houston, Shreveport, Alexandria, Baton Rouge & Covington!

WARHAWK ROADSHOWS

The Alumni Association hosts networking socials for rising juniors and seniors to meet alumni in their field, share success stories and how ULM changed their lives. Past socials were in partnership with the College of Business and Social Sciences.

With the purpose of celebrating any VAPA alumni and promoting the arts at ULM to the community, the Alumni Association hosts a reception before the musical with charcuterie and beverages!

ALUMNI RECEPTION AT SPRING MUSICAL

Since 1984, 31 Ambassadors and the Alumni Association have hosted this piping-hot event, started by Tom Deal, Frank Elkin III, and Don Weems. Traditionally held on the last home game of the season, teams get together to compete for the best chili in Ouachita Parsih. Alumni, faculty and community members participate and judge!

La’Louisianne Crawfish Boil is an iconic event celebrating camaraderie during Crawfish season, sponsored by the Alumni Association! Each spring as a part of Spring Fever Week, the community gathers for the spring football game while enjoying a seasonal meal and warm weather.

ALUMNI LA’ LOUISIANNE CRAWFISH BOIL

Oozeball is a long standing tradition hosted by the 31 Ambassadors. Teams of students and employees compete in a pool-play and bracketstyle volleyball competition…..in the mud pits!

Athletics, Recruiting, Alumni Association and Advancement departments teamed up to bring the Bayou to your region! This summer, we connected with over 200 alumni in Dallas/Ft. Worth, Houston, Shreveport, Alexandria, Baton Rouge & Covington!

ULMMAGAZINE

CHILI COOK OFF

President - Kelly Morgan, Vice President of Projects - Randy Head, Vice President of Marketing - Hope Marler, Secretary - Madeline Sierra.

ALUMNI NETWORKING SOCIAL

WINE OVER WATER

BY ULM

ULM SOAR CAPITAL CAMPAIGN ACHIEVES NEW HEIGHTS!

$100 MILLION BY 2031

THE CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY OF ULM

Paths to Educational Excellence Through Giving

“They say an optimist is a person who plants a tree knowing that they'll never sit under the shade of that tree. We're doing things that are going to make this university better for those that come after us.”

SOAR, WHICH STANDS FOR STUDENTS/SUCCEED, OPPORTUNITIES/EDUCATE, ATHLETICS/ACHIEVE, RENOVATIONS/ BUILD, IS A UNIVERSITY-WIDE CAPITAL CAMPAIGN.

Acknowledging immense support from the community, benefactors, and friends of the university, a total of $18,720,400 in commitments has been realized since July 1, 2019.

Students/Succeed funds private Foundation scholarships - $4.45 million.

Opportunities/Educate is dedicated to innovative academic opportunities for both faculty and students - $7.04 million.

Athletics/Achieve supports Warhawks athletic programs - $3.12 million.

Renovations/Build funds are dedicated to the construction of new facilities and renovation of existing facilities such as the Stangier-Young Leadership Center, $4.12 million.

If you are interested in contributing to the SOAR Campaign, contact the ULM Foundation office at 318.342.3636 or foundation@ulm.edu

– CHARLES MCDONALD Former Dean of Students

ENTREPRENEURIAL PITCH COMPETITION DHU THOMPSON

The Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup business competition developed by ULM in partnership with sponsor Dhu C. Thompson, founder and retired CEO of Delta Plastics, was launched to encourage students to develop their innovative ideas.

Thompson is a distinguished ULM alumnus and founder, past owner, and former chairman of the board for Delta Plastics, producer of agricultural irrigation tubing, and the largest recycler of plastics in Arkansas. He is also the former owner and past chairman of the board for Revolution Bag that manufactures EPA-compliant trash can liners. Thompson’s honors include 2004 Arkansas Business Executive of the Year and SBA Person of the Year. In 2019 he sold the Revolution brands to a New York private equity firm and now focuses on entrepreneurship growth in Arkansas and Louisiana.

Thompson provided $50,000 in prize money to be presented to students and faculty advisers for first place ($25,000), second place ($15,000), third place ($10,000), elevator pitch ($2,000), and $3,000 to faculty for first, second and third places. The 2022 competition was open to all ULM and VCOM students, with future competitions open to all colleges and universities in Louisiana.

The Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup is a realworld entrepreneur education opportunity for college students. Whether they are serious about launching a startup or they

want to learn more about entrepreneurship, competitors will gain a greater appreciation of the challenges and opportunities of starting a viable business.

TIMBERLAND ESTATE GIFT MARSHA D. GRIFFIN

Marsha D. Griffin, ULM ’70 BA in Office Management and ’72 Master of Business Administration, bequeathed a forty plus acre tract of pine timber in Union Parish in honor of her mother, Beatrice Nolan Griffin, to be designated as the Nolan-Griffin Memorial Fund. Proceeds from the timber management will fund scholarships for deserving students in the College of Business and Social Sciences.

LETTIE PATE WHITEHEAD SCHOLARSHIP LETTIE PATE

Over the past 37 years, the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation has awarded scholarships to ULM students in excess of $1.79 million. Recipients are deserving female students with financial need in the areas of nursing, pharmacy, and allied health.

With headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, the Foundation’s grantmaking is inspired by the life of Lettie Pate Whitehead Evans, an extraordinary philanthropist and businesswoman. She was the wife of Joseph B. Whitehead, one of the original bottlers of Coca-Cola. When Mr. Whitehead died at an early age, Lettie Pate took over her husband’s bottling business and real estate interests, guiding both to great success. She became one of the first female directors of any major American corporation when she was appointed to the board of The Coca-Cola Company in 1934.

Mrs. Whitehead gave generously to educational institutions throughout her life. At her death, the Coca-Cola Company honored her thus: “Endowed with material things, she had a conviction that she held them a trustee for the poor, the meek and the unfortunate.”

The Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation has awarded more than $767 million to educational institutions since inception.

The Wells family, lifelong supporters of ULM in numerous capacities, saw an opportunity in the College of Business and Social Sciences to help hardworking undergraduate students graduating in accounting achieve their dreams of pursuing a Master’s Degree in Business Administration. As a result of this need, the Wells family established The Wells Family Super Superior Graduate Endowed Scholarship. This endowment will ensure the success of future ULM MBA students for many generations to come.

Panel Truss of Texas, Inc., and its affiliates (“Panel Truss” or “The Company”) is a privately-owned company that designs, ▶

SCHOOL OF CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT PANEL TRUSS OF TEXAS, INC.

THE WELLS FAMILY COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND SOCIAL SCIENCES SUPER SUPERIOR GRADUATE ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP THE WELLS FAMILY

2021-2022 DONOR GIFT HIGHLIGHTS

engineers, manufactures and sells structural wooden roof and floor systems. The Company has established an excellent reputation in its nearly 50 years in business and is known for its exceptional quality and customer service. Panel Truss of Texas is owned by brothers, Bo and Donnie Powers, from Tallulah, Louisiana. Both are alumni of the ULM School of Construction Management (SOCM) Program. On behalf of Panel Truss, the Powers’ brothers committed a $100,000 gift to the SOCM Capital Campaign for new facilities and renovations.

Ellen Soignier was the ninth of 11 children born to Mr. and Mrs. John Chester Soignier. After graduating from St. Frederick High School, she chose the demanding curriculum of accounting at ULM. Ellen was a dedicated student and worked part-time to help pay for her education. It was at ULM that she met her future husband, Jimmie Stapleton. Ellen graduated in 1990 and began her career in accounting. She and Jimmie married and had three children. Together, the Stapletons were strong supporters of the power of education to change lives. Even breast cancer did not stop her from volunteering at schools and helping teachers and administrators. Ellen died in 2010 at age 41. Scholarships of at least $2,000 per semester will be awarded to a student or students meeting these requirements: a sophomore or higher in the College of Business and Social Sciences, be a Louisiana resident, work at least 20 hours a week, and have a minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA.

Former ULM professor and Associate Dean of the College of Health Sciences, Dr. Paxton Oliver, ULM ’68 BA Government and ULM ’72 Certification in Speech and Hearing Therapy, and his wife, Nelda Oliver, ULM ’68 BA in Social Work, graciously established the Paxton and Nelda Oliver Endowed Professorship in Speech-Language Pathology, ensuring future professors have the resources they need to educate students in this critical discipline.

the Louisiana House of Representatives and more than 40 years as the Voice of the Warhawks. As a state representative, the Louisiana Association of Principals named him Legislator of the Year for his dedication to education. In 2015 when he began his 40th year as the Voice of the Warhawks, he received the McNaughton Chapter of the College Hall of Fame Distinguished American Award and was recognized by the Louisiana Sports Writers Association with several awards, including best play-by-play. He received a variety of honors from ULM, including the 1995 Outstanding Alumni Award from the ULM College of Education, the 2012 ULM George T. Walker Lifetime Achievement Award, and the 2015 ULM Athletic Hall of Fame induction.

Susan earned her bachelor’s degree in business in 1977 and her Master of Business Administration in 1980. Additionally, she is a graduate of the LSU School of Banking of the South and the University of Oklahoma Commercial Banking School. As a business professional, she was Market President of JPMorgan Chase Bank in Monroe, LA. During her career with JPMC, she created the largest portfolio of commercial bankers in the southern region and was selected as the top commercial lender in the South. Susan was recognized in 2000 with the ULM Alumni Golden Arrow Award and in 2019, the ULM Women’s Symposium honored her with the Distinguished Leader Award. In May 2021, Susan was awarded the celebrated Monroe Chamber of Commerce Rambin Silverstein Award.

Michael McKay, ULM ’80 BBA in Accounting, and Catherine McKay, ULM ’84 in Pre-Law, graciously assumed the role of anchor donors on a large capital improvement project for the Sound of Today marching band. As two former Sound of Today members they felt passionate about helping with this project. As a result of their very generous philanthropic gesture, the renovations were completed on time and the Sound of Today Band room was affectionately renamed the Jack and Coralie White Rehearsal Room after two ULM icons.

Two University of Louisiana Monroe graduates and respected community leaders, Frank and Susan Hoffmann, have invested in future ULM students pursuing graduate degrees in education and business. Their contribution will be matched by the Louisiana Board of Regents Support Fund. The $100,000 endowed scholarship’s purpose is to recruit and retain high-quality graduate students in the School of Education and the College of Business and Social Sciences’ Master of Business Administration graduate program by alleviating financial obligations.

Frank earned his bachelor’s degree in education in 1966 and continued to study in the field of education, going on to earn a master’s and a doctorate, all from ULM. He devoted his career to education, working for 39 years at the Ouachita Parish School System as a teacher, coach, principal, personnel director and assistant superintendent.

Outside of his career in education, Frank served his community for 12 years as a legislator representing District 15 in

MARY ELLEN SOIGNIER STAPLETON ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP ELLEN SOIGNIER

MARILYN FRANCES ST. AMANT & LOUIS J. ST. AMANT SUPERIOR GRADUATE ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP IN

DR. PAXTON AND NELDA OLIVER ENDOWED PROFESSORSHIP IN SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY DR. PAXTON & NELDA OLIVER

FRANK AND SUSAN HOFFMANN SUPERIOR GRADUATE SCHOLARSHIP FRANK & SUSAN HOFFMANN

JACK & CORALIE WHITE REHEARSAL ROOM MICHAEL & CATHERINE MCKAY

GERONTOLOGY MARILYN FRANCES & LOUIS J. AMANT

Louis “Lou” J. St. Amant, ULM ’70 BA in Health and Physical Education and ’71 Master of Administration and Supervision, established the Marilyn Frances St. Amant and Louis J. St. Amant Superior Graduate endowed Scholarship in Gerontology to honor his late wife, Ms. Marilyn. Where Coach Lou was passionate about athletics, Ms. Marilyn was equally as passionate about education. Ms. Marilyn and Coach Lou’s names are synonymous with ULM. They are truly ULM icons. Recently, Coach Lou received one of the highest ULM honors, The Warhawk Ambassador award, which is reserved for individuals whose interests and loyalty are evident in their deeds and actions, reflecting and recognizing the importance of the University of Louisiana Monroe in our local and global community, and demonstrating pride in the University. The recipients are people of such integrity, stature and demonstrated ability that the faculty, staff, students, and alumni take pride in and are inspired by their recognition.

Lou St. Amant served two separate tenures with ULM beginning in 1968 when he served as a Graduate Assistant Baseball Coach through the 1970 season. His first term culminated with an appearance in the NAIA World Series. That team finished the season as runner-up in the 1970 NAIA World Series event.

He later returned to ULM in 1976, as a member of Coach John David Crow’s original football staff, serving as wide receiver coach. He was also tasked with head coach responsibilities for the baseball program, a position he held for 18 seasons while also teaching classes in the Kinesiology Department. In 1979, Lou left his football duties and became the first “full time” baseball coach at ULM.

Lou ended his baseball head coaching career with 414 wins, including a 1982 Trans America Athletic Conference West Division Championship and 1983 Southland Conference Championship. The 1983 team was the first baseball team from ULM to participate in an NCAA Regional Playoffs while Lou was named Louisiana Coach of the Year in addition to conference and regional honors.

He also served as the “color analyst” for ULM football radio broadcasts for 25 years further solidifying his recognition among the ULM community.

Lou, and his late wife Marilyn, have been lifelong contributors to the University with their time, talent and treasure.

After more than 54 years of service to the University he continues to attend and support ULM functions, provide wise counsel to staff members and serve as a ULM ambassador in the community.

and was first horn in the wind ensemble. Her instructors and mentors were the late Jerry Vance and the late Director of Bands Emeritus Jack White. As a student, Shaw shared her remarkable talent for playing almost anything brass with the Monroe Symphony Orchestra (first assistant horn) and performed with the South Arkansas Symphony.

With her ULM diploma in hand and French horn and grandfather’s alto saxophone in tow, Shaw traveled north to the University of Akron, Ohio, to earn her Master of Music. Shaw returned home to Shreveport and studied to become a paralegal. Music remained her passion, performing with Red River Brass, Shreveport Symphony, Lake Charles Symphony, and Rapides Symphony.

She would go on to a successful 30-year career with the federal government in the Washington, D.C. area, most of it with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Shaw performed with the Frederick Symphony Orchestra and the Washington Metropolitan Philharmonic (formerly the Mt. Vernon Orchestra).

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

ESTATE GIFT ELIZABETH A. SHAW

Through her will, Shaw, who died in July 2021, bequeathed her instruments and musical items to the ULM School of Visual and Performing Arts in the College of Arts, Education, and Sciences. Shaw earned a Bachelor of Music from ULM in 1979.

The Elizabeth Shaw Collection of 770 items includes sheet music, vinyl and CDs, musical accessories and seven musical instruments:

• A Steinway baby grand piano

• Gemeinhardt flute and piccolo

• Haynes flute

• Conn-Selmer alto saxophone

• Alexander French horn

• Wagner tuba

Derle Long, Ph.D., VAPA Director shared, “We think the Steinway donated by Elizabeth Shaw is around 100 years old. It is a 6-foot model and is placed in Bon Aire, the president’s home.” Sergei Rachmaninoff’s signature is inscribed on the piano as records state he played it during his Oct. 20, 1939, recital in Syracuse, N.Y.

A special time in Shaw’s musical life was from 1975-79. At ULM, then-NLU, she studied music, marched in The Sound of Today, performed in the university orchestra,

COMO CHARITABLE FOUNDATION

SCHOLARSHIP LUELLA SNYDER

The Como Charitable Foundation works to improve the lives of people in Franklin Parish. Its mission is to help people help themselves with education at the forefront of the initiative. Since 2017, the Como Foundation has supported 127 ULM students with over $265,000 in scholarships. Covering all majors, the scholarship is specific to Franklin Parish residents who engage in volunteer work in their area.

The Como Foundation was established by the late Luella Snyder, who grew up in the Como community in Franklin Parish, Louisiana. Luella graciously supported the organizations she felt were important to the community she held dear, and she wanted those entities to thrive because they were also important to her. Luella Snyder never sought recognition for her contributions. She moved quietly behind the scenes to ensure that deserving local groups received the financial help they needed to flourish, and many have benefitted from her generosity.

Luella Snyder left a mark on the landscape of Franklin Parish with the gift of the Como Charitable Foundation, which will continue her work to benefit the area and its people for years to come. ■

ALUMNI CLASS NOTES

1985

Wally Mulhearn (Aviation) celebrated 35 years as a pilot for United Airlines in July 2022.

1986

Kelly Freeland, CPA (Accounting, MBA), joined ULM Foundation as Staff Accountant. She has over 36 years of experience in accounting as a Chartered Global Management Accountant and Certified Internal Auditor.

1987

Billy B. Boughton (BS Pharmacy) has returned to Monroe after being away for 30 years, working in multiple areas such as hospital pharmacy, research, home care, and the pharmaceutical industry with a focus on oncology. Since his return in 2019, he has been working for Jazz Pharmaceuticals and received a promotion to Senior Oncology Account Manager. He looks forward to being involved in the community and giving back to ULM.

Terri Mulhearn (BBA Office Management) is working at United Airlines Aircraft Records in the Document Management and Automation Department and is responsible for the integrity, management, and electric filing of the maintenance documents for United’s fleet.

1988

In honor of Dr. Pamela Saulsberry, the Office of International and Multicultural Affairs named a Trailblazer Award in February 2022. The Dr. Pamela Saulsberry Trailblazer Award will be presented annually to an individual who is an advocate for the University of Louisiana Monroe as well as the community and who is a pioneer in their field, giving back to the

community and creating an inclusive environment. The 2022 inaugural recipient was Dr. Mystee Burrell.

1989

Stephanie Duke Patton (Journalism) was elected president of the Mississippi Press Association in June 2022.

Dan Robertson (Finance) was elected to the Bank of Oak Ridge Board of Directors.

1991

Mary Linda McCann (BBA Finance and Marketing, MBA) began a new job at the Bank of Oak Ridge as the Senior Vice President of Business Development.

1995

David Coleman (Health & Physical Education) was nominated and awarded the Patriot Award in his PGA Section. He was also nominated for the National Award.

1997

University of Louisiana Monroe Vice President for Student Affairs Valerie S. Fields, Ed.D., (Administration and Supervision) has been appointed to the Louisiana Attorney Disciplinary Board. Fields serves as a public member of the board, which consists of 14 members appointed by the Louisiana Supreme Court. Fields is one of four new members named in 2022. Her term is three years and is a voluntary position.

Dr. Amy L. Weems (BS, EdD) won the Educators Rising Champion Award at the organization’s national conference on June 26, 2022. She is an Assistant Professor of Education and launched the Louisiana Educators Rising pilot program three years ago at Neville, Oak Grove, and Wossman high schools.

The program is now offered at 11 schools in seven partner districts. The goal of Educators Rising is to encourage students to choose education as a career path by offering college credit opportunities, mentor relationships with college professors, and leadership development sessions. Weems developed a pilot program called the Pre-Educator Pathway for the Louisiana Department of Education. ULM was the first institution of higher education in the state to offer the program to high school students to give them an early start toward teacher certification upon graduation.

1998

Renee Hebert (BA, M.Ed.) started a new job at Electronic Arts as a Project Manager for Talent Acquisition.

1999

Jeremy Muse (Government) was named the 2022 Louisiana Middle School Principal of the Year. Brandon Dardeau (Marketing) was elected as the new President of Beau Rivage Casino.

2002

For the past three years, Quilwanti Lewis, a Monroe native (BS Biology, General Studies), has been employed as a Science Educator for Southside Alternative High School, housed at Swanson Center for Youth. She’s also an alumna of Louisiana Tech University (MS in Cellular and Molecular Biology 2005, and MA in Education 2017). She currently serves as Treasurer for Twin City and District 68 Area 4 Director for Toastmasters International. She is the Corresponding Secretary for Monroe Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and a

photos provided by Special Collections & Archives

Board Member for Twin City Arts Foundation. She is also a member of Little Flower Catholic Church Parish Council and a member of the Renaissance Movement Committee. She’s a mother of one daughter, Tarvie, and enjoys shopping, traveling, and reading. She lives by her personal mantra, “Be who you are and say what you feel because those that matter don’t mind, and those that mind, don’t matter.”-Dr. Seuss. ULM has been an integral part of her success by introducing her to a world of new passions and endless possibilities, providing her with the necessary tools to build knowledge and skills in her respective fields of choice, creating a platform to build and establish long-term friendships and relationships and character development.

2007

Melissa Kiper Baldwin (MBA) married Matthew Baldwin on April 16, 2022.

Meghan Olinger (BA Communication Studies, MPA Public Management) was elected as the 20222023 ULM Staff Senate President. She was also recently named the new Director of Miss ULM, Miss ULM Outstanding Teen, and Mr. ULM. She was also accepted to the University of Southern Mississippi Higher Education Administration Ed.D. program.

2010

Michael Canty (MA Communication) recently started working as the Communications Manager for the Mayor of New Orleans, LaToya Cantrell.

In May 2021, Seth Hall (BBA Marketing) came back to work at ULM as the Chief Strategy Officer, followed by his appointment as Interim Athletic Director in September 2022. In March 2021, he married Alexandra Ellis Hall. His biggest project has been helping develop the ULM’s strategic plan with the help of others. Currently, he is working closely with ULM Athletics to help develop a strategic plan for their department.

2013

Rebecca Ham (Radiologic Technology, Educational Technology Leadership) received tenure and was

Louisiana Primary Care Association about schoolbased health centers. This summer, she was accepted into LSU’s School of Social Work. She also recently got engaged.

Horace (Trey) Wilson (Political Science, MPA) became ULM’s first Director of Digital Recruitment and Analytics. He served on multiple strategic planning committees ranging from diversity to enrollment. He also served on the Monroe Symphony Board.

2016

Katy Thomas (Elementary Education, Curriculum & Instruction) accepted a job at Alliance Academy International and moved to Quito, Ecuador. She is teaching 4th grade as a missionary teacher.

2017

Kaitlin Arnett (Risk Management & Insurance) returned to ULM as the Director of Recruitment in October 2021. Previously, she worked at Louisiana Delta Community College as the Coordinator of Dual Enrollment. She was a ULM Recruiter following her graduation. During her time as a student, Kaitlin served as SGA President and was elected Homecoming Queen.

Greg Baccarini (BA Communication) became the Director of Recruitment and Placement for ULM’s College of Business and Social Sciences in February 2022.

2018

Medria Yvette Taylor Buford (BA General Studies) was a Spring 2022 inductee of Eta Lambda Sigma Alumni Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. and elected Epistoleus. She also recently became a member of Monroe’s Renaissance Movement Committee.

Sasha Danisheuskaya (BS Computer Science) faced more than 200 skiers from 24 countries at the International Water Ski Federation 2021 Open World Water Ski Championships in Orlando, FL. The Minsk, Belarus native, and ULM alumna proved she is the best in the world at what she does by winning the Women’s Overall title for her combined points in three events.

to help North Korean defectors with their English conversation skills.

Tasha Raquel Nelson (MA Social Sciences) completed dual enrollment at Grambling State University and Hope Bible Institute. She earned a Doctorate Degree in Biblical Psychology in 2020, along with her Master’s of Arts at ULM. Nelson enrolled at Alcorn State University in January 2021, majoring in Clinical Mental Health. She has maintained a 4.0 GPA and anticipates a graduation date of December 2022. She has proudly become a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. in Spring 2022.

Sarah Siereveld (MBA) used her undergraduate degree in Musical Theatre and sang with ULM Jazz Ensemble for their Spring 2022 concert. Sarah’s husband, Dr. Eric Siereveld, is the Director of the ULM Jazz Ensemble.

2021

Erick Burton (BBA) began working in the Office of Recruitment as an Enrollment Services Specialist serving the Shreveport/Bossier area along with Dallas and East Texas. He became an advisor of the Cultural Diversity Council, an organization of which he was the Founding President, in January 2021. He will remain the Enrollment Services Specialist and serve across the state of Louisiana and other various areas.

Sydney Larousse (BBA Marketing with a minor in Management) took a leap of faith after graduation and moved to Dallas with a low-paying job, everything she could fit into her car, and a dream to enter the music industry. She started her new call center job, lived in an Airbnb, and searched for a permanent apartment. She received a call from a Live Nation recruiter and was offered the position of Premium Sales Administrative Coordinator.

Alex T. Ray (Psychology) has become the case manager for Caddo Parish School Board to help with social service work in helping families that are homeless.

Eugenia White (MPA) was named the Director of

THE KITTY DEGREE BELL TOWER SOCIETY

The Kitty Degree Bell Tower Society honor roll is named for the University’s most generous contributor, Dr. Kitty DeGree. Bell Tower Society members have contributed at least $50,000 to the university and have extraordinary histories of support to ULM. Their names are permanently inscribed on ULM’s “Wall of Honor” located in the ULM Conference Center.

TOWER SOCIETY

$1,000,000 AND ABOVE

Kitty DeGree

Ella S. Johnson

Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation

Chip Lyman Thomas H. and Mayme P. Scott Foundation

Emy-Lou Biedenharn Foundation David and Sharon Turrentine Stephen W. and Ernestine M. Brown Jonathan and Sheila Davies CenturyLink

Stephanie and Nelson Abell

The Strauss and Mintz Families Regions Bank

Buck and Libby Anderson North Louisiana Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Clinic Charles Freeman Stamper James and Lynn Moore Bruce and Lizabeth Boulware Capital One Bank

IN MEMORIAM

KITTY DEGREE devoted her life to bettering her community. This true philanthropist showed unparalleled dedication to ULM.

DeGree died on Oct. 25, 2012, leaving a lasting legacy as part of the ULM family. DeGree’s commitment to ULM ensured the remarkable progress of several university programs and facilities.

Kitty’s capital gifts include: the Kitty DeGree Computer Center, which is the key student resource area of the Clarke M. Williams Student Success Center; the Kitty DeGree Pharmacy Student Resource Center and Library; and the Kitty DeGree Speech and Hearing Center. DeGree also provided funding for the focal part of the University Library and Conference Center, including the entry tower. The Kitty DeGree Bell Tower is now an icon and was included in an official university logo in recent years.

After an additional seven-figure gift to the university, the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors approved the naming of the Kitty DeGree School of Nursing in June 2012. On April 12, 2013, the university unveiled Kitty DeGree Hall, which houses the Kitty DeGree School of Nursing.

Contractors Educational Trust Fund

John and Billie Smith Susan Denmon Banowsky William S. Banowsky, Jr. Dr. Judy H. Diffley Chase

Linda and Eric Liew St. Francis Medical Center

Coca-Cola Refreshments

LA State Licensing Board for Contractors

Glenwood Regional Medical Center

Lallage F. Wall

The William D. Hoover Family Nancy J. Johnston Estate of Hanna Spyker

Monroe/West Monroe Convention and Visitors Bureau

The Darrell and Mary Calhoun Foundation Milburn and Nancy Calhoun

BAYOU SOCIETY

$500,000 - $999,999

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon The Department of Insurance Willis-Knighton Health System

Patrick and Catherine Mitchell

Estate of Mildred Summers Maurer

The Radio People

Mary Goss Charities

Louisiana Wholesale Drug Company, Inc.

Bennie and Nelson Abell

Johnny's Pizza House John E. Huntsman and Sharon D. Harrison Bruce and Carol Hanks Elsie Webb

Bonnie and Frank Maxwell, III Guy and Loura Barr Kilpatrick Funeral Homes Carole and Tex Kilpatrick City of Monroe

OUACHITA SOCIETY $100,000 - $499,999

Don Beach

JPS Equipment and JPS Aviation

The Martin Foundation Carolyn and Harold Bates Joe and Linda Holyfield The News-Star Clarion Inn and Suites John F. and Lucy Shackelford Origin Bank

Bancroft Bag, Inc. T. O. Bancroft, Jr. Bernard W. Biedenharn IberiaBank

P & S Surgical Hospital

John and Debbie Luffey Michael H. Woods John and Karen Wells Lawrence J. Danna Charles H. and Kay McDonald Entergy Services, Inc.

Kay and Hugh McDonald

State Farm Insurance Companies Central Management Company Teddy and Susan Price Walgreens

Lev and Anne Dawson Tag Rome

Graphic Packaging International, Inc.

Dixie Shell Homes and Self Storage

Stephen M. Futrell Elee and Terri Trichel

Stangier Wealth Management Louisiana Board of Pharmacy Mary Jo and B. J. Robison Lincoln Builders, Inc.

Freddy and Reba Nolan

Carol L. Young

Marilyn and Lou St. Amant Lance and Tammy Jarrell Stanfill

Louisiana Associated General Contractors

Louisiana Independent Pharmacies Association - LIPA Monroe Athletic Club

Comcast Cable

Cayce and Vicky Hand Family Evans Oil Company, Inc.

John & Tasha Gardner

American Business Women's Association

Como Charitable Foundation est by Luella Snyder

Ronnie Ward Toyota of Ruston Ronnie and Sharon Ward

KTVE Channel 10 and KARD Fox 14

Progressive Bank

George & Jane Luffey Jack and Debbie Blitch

Dhu & Mary Ellen Thompson Clark and Mary Kathryn Williams Harold and Helen Turner

Frances Hammond Louisiana Cancer Foundation Linda Noe Laine Foundation

KNOE TV

Estate of Lewis Marvin McKneely Lawrence A. and Elizabeth Ann Robinson

Southern Pines f/k/a Calvert Crossing and Pine Hills Duke and Liesha McHugh

Mid South Extrusion

J. D. and Annie Greco

Noe Corporation, LLC

Alltel Corporation

Catfish Cabin of Monroe

The Hearn Family Van-Trow Toyota Novartis

Jay and Teri Lewis Drew and Joe Farr Scott Powerline and Utility Equipment

Geneve A. Castles

Jim Doull

Evelyn and Jeff Johnson Morris & Dickson Company, LLC Lawson and Sharon Swearingen

Michael C. Echols

James and Dot Mock

Louisiana Lottery Corporation Sparks Nissan Kia

Vantage Health Plan, Inc.

Waterfront Grill

Ouachita Independent Bank

Robert. R. and Bobbye Earle James Machine Works, Inc.

Gary and Jan Luffey Robertson Produce, Inc. Brian and Maxine Laird Moreau

ULM Bookstore

The Atrium Hotel and Conference Centre

Marsha Dawn Griffin Land 3 Architect Hixon Autoplex Lamar Advertising TBA Studio

Tim and Jolie Brandon VCOM - Louisiana

Jim and Debbie Rivers Stewart, Donna, Steward, Jr. and Erich Cathey

John W. and Shiangling L. Wong

J.W. Wong Knowledge Enrichment Foundation

Geo Surfaces

Drs. Ron and Christine Berry Ryan Auto Group

Leon and Gayle Miletello

Nick J. and Linda C. Bruno Marsala Beverage, Inc.

Jody and Bishop Johnston

Tommy and Mary Barham

Julie and Dewey Weaver Estate of James S. Taunton Doug and Shannon Wells

AT&T

Louisiana Pain Care Dale and Jimmy N. Dimos Glen L. Davison St. Francis North Hospital Auxiliary Lawrence I. and Glenda S. White

Jim Taylor Chevrolet

Kirby and Susan Arceneaux

Shawn D. and Donna Kay Murphy

Brookshire Grocery Company

AmSouth Bank Susan & Frank Hoffmann

ADIDAS

Betty Caskey Gorsage

Ouachita Parish Chapter of the ULM Alumni Association James Kurt and Irmgard Kahn Fisher Rhonda Wray and Mark J. Neal

Workforce Development Board 83

The Phillip R. Smith Family Fred A. and Lillian Marx Lenora Francois Stewart & David W. Stewart

Randy Morris Mike and Loretta Ashbrook Hertz Rent-A-Car Davis and Denise Hardy Salvador Scaccia Christopher Youth Center Faulk Collier Moving & Storage

Larry and Cecille Bradley Joey and Cyd Jacobs

The Sol Rosenberg Family OEDC Land Corporation John and Rosemary Luffey Aramark

Ouachita Parish Women's Republican Club Scott Truck and Scott Idealease Scott and Livvy Nunnelee Doug and Glenda Gates Otten Katherine and Jerry Warner

First National Bank Ray & Dorothy Young & Family BancorpSouth Bank Action Moving and Storage, Inc.

Sally Liew and Kevin Koh

The Blue Cross Blue Shield Louisiana Foundation

The Community Foundation of North Louisiana

Panel Truss Texas Suzie Jackson

Tom Scott, Jr. Scholarship Foundation

Lynn and Gail Lincecum

George Thomas & Mary Ellen Walker Loucille G. Kinsey Adele W. Ransom

The Toggery

Delta Ridge Implement, Inc.

ONB Educational Trust Fund William T. and Kandy A. Little Paul Fink

Mark and Janet Mitchell

Harry and Mary Lou Winters

Raising Cane's

Waste Management

Johnny and Carleen Reeves ESPN

Randy and Rosemary Ewing Dansby's Taylor Rental Center Thomas Dansby, Sr. Charles E. "Chuck" Finley James & Dot Mock

The Stapleton Family Kathryn Huff Insurance Agency

Ken and Kathryn Huff OPUS Broadcasting Newcomer, Morris, and Young, Inc.

Joey & Holly Trappey Ray & Melba Scurlock

Ken and Mary Parnell Renwick

Dr. Paxton & Nelda Oliver Bob and Donna Brooks Bertha Marie Masur Gorn

Dr. Joshua L. Comer & Dr. Cheyenne Comer

The Matson Family Foundation

Tim R. and Wanda Holcomb Steel Fabricators of Monroe, LLC

West Carroll Health System Sissie & Gary Jones Lawrence I. and Ann G. Robinson

Ronny and Judy Graham CORNERSTONE SOCIETY $50,000 - $99,999

Marty and Catherine McKay William F. Crowder CVS Health Foundation Moore Oil Company, Inc. Tom and Katie Torregrossa Michael & Catherine McKay Sidney R. Wilhite

Ken and Carol Holland Home Builders Association of Northeast Louisiana

American Petroleum Institute Tom and Sue Nicholson Linda and George Campbell KAQY TV

Keith Ouchley

Clyde R. & Patricia H. White R. Stewart Ewing, Jr. John and Cyndy Perry Downtown Monroe Lions Club

Shirley Buchanan TEXO

Biedenharn Foundation Ed and Betty Davis Leazel and Scott McDonald Daniel and Trudi Wood

The Horrell Family Chris, Erin, Maddie & Gary Outback Steakhouse

The Links at Muny, LLC Lee Edwards Mazda

Catherine and William R. "Billy" Boles

T.J. and Wanda W. Shuflin Aeneas Williams Dealerships

The Doug Pederson Family Dr. Eric & Denise Pani Elizabeth Ann Shaw Harvey Marcus, Sr. John and Susan Jackson

The Dial Family Foundation Blake and Juanita Pitre David Doles McDonald's Overton Brooks VA Medical Center

Indian Aquatic Club Michelle Egan Luv N' Care Rusty and Lisa Haile HomesPlus Thomas & Farr Agency, Inc. St. Francis North Hospital Bart & Kay Dornier Ecoutez Press Ltd. Robert B. and Susan L. Toups Peter and Nancy Illing Fiesta Nutrition Center, Inc. Bill & Kathy Pippin Louisiana Real Estate Commission

Louisiana Tom's Vending Yvonne and Kent Anderson Busch Media Group Frenchmen's Bend Golf & Health Club

Ryan & Susan Chappell Bob & Tracie Coons Sara L. Simmonds Cross Keys Bank Ronnie & Cathy Myrick Basil and Gail Doles Dan and Hope Robertson Eckerd Corporation Foundation Shirley Boyce FedEx Express Billy and Florinell Laird Jackie and Ellen Yeldell Anne and Elton Kennedy Guide Corporation Wal-Mart Foundation

American Medical Response Van and Ann Pardue Cindy and Dennis Rogers Bobbie and Tommy Matthieu Barnes & Nobles College ULM Bookstore

C Brad & Shannon Moncrief Estate of John H. Smith, III Rig Site Rental, LP

Cooper Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Inc.

Wimbledon Health Partners Louisiana Machinery, Inc. Judy and Francis Huffman Central Oil & Supply Corp. Farmers Grain Terminal, Inc. Stagg Cattle Company

Estate of Ernest Duncan Holloway Darren & Nancy Rak La Capitol Federal Credit Union

Violet Little Liner Richard and Cheryle Dickenson

Kenneth and Anne Wilson Douglas R. Turner

Joe and Sandra Banks St. Francis Medical Center Auxiliary

Robert & Traci Canterbury Kyle W. Russell

James A. Thom, III George & Stephanie Schaeffer

Steel Fabricators Monroe

Jeanne R. and John H. Pere

AmWins Group, Inc.

Henry S. and Ann Cole Kathy and Murray Biedenharn R. Britton Katz

Ron & Liz Bush

Northwest Louisiana Chapter of the ULM Alumni Association

Richland State Bank Northeast Louisiana Arts Council

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana Interstate Automotive Group TXI Texas Industries

Dr. Janet L. HoodHanchey, PhD Dr. Thomas I. Parks

Kurt & Sandy Oestriecher Ed & Mary Brayton Ray L. Crowell E. Orum Young

Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of Louisiana

Vivian Jircik Muckleroy

Twin City Mayors' Committee on Disabilities (TCMCD)

W. Elton Kennedy Foundation Jim and Louise Altick

Louisiana Charities Trust AT&T Wireless

Your Local Dodge Dealers

GlaxoSmithKline Estate of Gertie M. Allen Green Estate of Louise Briley Leake Bill and Scarlett Boles

Nonie and Billy McKie Doll & Ken Vines

Ivan R. & Patricia A. Landry Billy & Earlene Hannah Jim and Louise Altick Kevin and Nita Woods

Simmons Sporting Goods Sandy and Thomas C. Dansby, Jr.

Steel Fabricators of Monroe Thomas D. and Attie W. Day

THE GEORGE T. WALKER HERITAGE SOCIETY

The George T. Walker Heritage Society honors those generous donors who have in cluded the university as a beneficiary in their wills or have made other planned estate gifts such as charitable gift annuities, life insurance policies, and charitable trusts. Dr. Walker, the university’s president from 1958-1976, is one of the individuals most responsible for the growth of this outstanding institution of higher learning.

To learn more about the advantages of charitable estate planning, visit gifts.ulm.edu

Buck and Libby Anderson Thomas O. Bancroft* Guy and Laura Barr Florence J. Blackstock* Jack and Debbie* Blitch Scherck Bogen* Larry* and Cecille Bradley Stephen* and Ernestine Brown Carl and Kaye Cloessner Toni Coble* Curtis and Laurinda Crenshaw Ray Crowell

Dr. Lawrence J. Danna Thomas* and Attie Day Kitty DeGree* Dr. Judy High Diffley Jimmy and Dale Dimos Michael Echols Douglas and Kristy Farr James Kurt* and Irmgard Kahn* Fisher Billy and Patti Gammel Charlotte Diane Gilbert* Mark Randall Gilley Maurice L. Gold Ronald and Judith Graham J.D. and Annie Greco Marsha D. Griffin* Frances D. Hammond* Ressa and Joe Harris Terry Michael Hays Ernest Duncan Hollow* John E. Huntsman* and Sharon D. Harrison Suzzon Jackson* John James Nancy Johnston Dan Johnston* Britton Katz Tex* and Carole Kilpatrick William “Billy”* and Florinell Laird

Paul and Carolyn Lasseigne Betty Ley Violet Liner* Chip Lyman Marjorie Malone* Mildred Mauer* Claxton and Caroline Mayo Charles “Charlie Mc” and Kay McDonald Hugh and Kay McDonald Lewis Marvin McKneely* James* and Dorothy* Mock Shawn and Donna Murphy Kathleen Nettleton* Thomas I. Parks Adele Ransom* Lawrence and Ann Robinson Tag Rome Rodger Ross Linda and Paul Sabin Elizabeth Ann Shaw* Brenda Hensley Smith John and Billie* Smith John H. Smith, III* Hanna Spyker* Charles Freeman Stamper Lawson and Sharon Swearingen James Taunton* Elee Trichel George T.* and Mary Ellen* Walker Jerry and Katherine Warner Elsie Webb* James Yeldell*

IN MEMORIAM

In retirement, Walker remained among ULM’s civic boosters and was a familiar face at Louisiana–Monroe Warhawks football games and other university events.

Walker authored numerous academic and professional journal articles as well as several books on accounting and business education. Of his five copyrighted books, two were written during his retirement, The Building of a University (1991), which examines the early years of ULM, and the biographical Emy-Lou Biedenharn: Her Life and Legacy (1999).

Emy-Lou Biedenharn was a world-renowned contralto from Monroe and the daughter of Joseph A. Biedenharn, the first bottler of Coca-Cola.

In 1938, Walker married the former Mary Ellen Neal (1911–2002), his college sweetheart. They had a son, George T. Walker, Jr., of Monroe and a daughter, Ellen Claire Stephenson of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Walker died of a lengthy illness at the age of ninety-eight. In addition to his children, Walker was survived by five grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

In 1997, the Louisiana Board of Regents awarded Walker its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for his ongoing dedication to higher education. He is also honored by the Mary Ellen and George Thomas Walker Scholarship Endowment through the ULM Foundation.

THE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA MONROE ASSOCIATES

The following individuals and organizations deserve special recognition for their leadership support as University Associates. From January 1, 2021, through December 31, 2021, these Associates invested $1,000 and above to the following affiliate non-profit organizations: the ULM Foundation, the ULM Athletic Foundation, the ULM Alumni Association, and KEDM Public Radio. Our University Associates provide the majority of private support annually... we honor and thank you!

BUSINESS ASSOCIATES

Acme Brick Company

Action Mobility Services, LLC

Affiliated Rehab LLC

American Mattress Outlet

Anderson Community Development Foundation

Argent Advisors Leasing Services, LLC

Argent Financial Group, Inc.

Aron's Pharmacy

Arthur J Gallagher & Co.

Aulds, Duchesne, & Griggs, LLC

B MO Ventures, LLC

B1 Bank

BancorpSouth Bank

Banner Ford of Monroe

Barnes & Noble College Booksellers, LLC

Bayou Overhead Door

Bayou Park Apartments

Beyond Reynosa Foundation

Big Shot Bob Enterprise, LLC

Border Olympics, Inc.

Bumper to Bumper Auto Parts

Buster Investments, LLC

Cameron Murray & Associates

Campbell & House Law Firm

Campco of Monroe Inc

Caridad Foundation

Cars for Charity

Central Management Company

Centric Federal Credit Union

Century Next Bank

Charitable Adult Rides & Services, Inc.

Citizens Progressive Bank

Coca-Cola United

CommCare Management Corporation

Community Certified Development Corporation

Como Charitable Foundation, Inc.

Contractors Educational Trust Fund

CRC Insurance Services, Inc.

Creed & Creed, Attorneys at Law

Cross Keys Bank

Custom Carpets & Interiors

CVS Health Foundation

Danken Trail BBQ

Dickson Farms, Inc

DNS Healthcare, LLC

Don Leach Construction, Inc.

Eason Manufacturing, LLC

Eddie Neitz Insurance Agency Inc.

Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM)

Enterprise Holdings Foundation

Evans Oil Company, Inc.

Fabulous Fabric Farm Bureau Insurance

Farmers Grain Terminal, Inc.

First United Methodist Church Flatwater LLC

Friendly Finance Corporation

Friends of Black Bayou, Inc.

Fry Bowl Foundation

Garrett & Garrett CPA's

Glenwood Regional Medical Center

Grand Council Chapter Masonic Foundation of LA

Greg Manley, Jr. Insurance Agency, LLC

Hand Construction, LLC

Harper Family Foundation

Hart Charitable Trust

Holyfield Ventures, LLC

Homeland Federal Savings Bank

IberiaBank

Independent Agents Association Executives (IAAE)

Ink's Firestone, Inc.

Insurance Systems, Inc.

In-Sync Accounting & Consulting

J. E. Dupuy Flooring & Acoustical, Inc. J.A. Directional LLC

James Machine Works, LLC Javi P's Fresh Mex

JBJ Foundation, Inc.

Jean and Saul A. Mintz Foundation

Jim Taylor Chevrolet JLB Wealth Management LLC

Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies Matching Gifts Program

Kilpatrick Funeral Homes

KMK Properties LLC

Knight Services LA, LLC LA Construction Group, LLC

LA State Licensing Board for Contractors

Lamyville Investors, LLC

Lazenby & Associates, Inc.

Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation Lincecum Properties, LLC Lincoln Builders, Inc.

Louisiana Board of Pharmacy Louisiana Cancer Foundation for Research and Education

Louisiana Charities Trust Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities Louisiana Pharmacists Association Louisiana Plastic Industries, Inc. Louisiana Wholesale Drug Company, Inc.

Lumen Magic Grill, LLC

Marion State Bank

Mary Goss Charities Material Things

Matson Family Foundation

McCK Enterprises Meredith Dental, LLC

Mid South Extrusion, Inc.

Mildred Summers Maurer Testamentary Trust Mixon, Carroll & Frazier,PLLC

Monroe/West Monroe Convention & Visitors Bureau

Montgomery Poultry Co.

Nabholz Charitable Foundation NE Delta Human Services Authority

Nexion Health Management, Inc. North Delta Title Company

Northeast Louisiana Arts Council Northminster Church Omega Diagnostics, LLC Opierx, Inc

Origin Bank

Panel Truss of Longview, Inc. Practice Transition Strategies LLC Premier Medicine LLC

Progressive Bank

PTG2 LLC

Raymond Enterprises of Louisiana, LLC

Regions Bank

RELEE Properties, LLC

Reliant Rehabilitation

Robertson Fruit & Produce, Inc.

Ron Bush Insurance Agency, Inc.

Ronnie John's Campaign Fund

Ryan Auto Group

Sabine River Roofing, LLC

Sammy's Plant World

Scott Powerline & Utility Equipment

Scott Truck ServiceMaster Action Cleaning Shell Chiropractic LLC

Silas Simmons

Skent-n-Dent

Snellings, Breard, Sartor, Inabnett & Trascher, LLP

Southern Stitches & Services, LLC

Sparks Nissan Kia Spartan Adventure Park St. Francis Medical Center

Sterling Surplus Underwriters

Synergy Care Inc.

Tag Rome Insurance Agency, Inc.

The Architecture Alliance Group, LLC

The Carpenter Health Network

The Dial Family Foundation

The Martin Foundation

The Northeast Louisiana Association of Realtors, Inc.

The Toggery & Her Toggery

Thomas H. & Mayme P. Scott Foundation

TNT Midstream Services, LLC

Tom Scott, Jr. Foundation

TPA Investment LLC

TriStar Rehab, Inc.

U.S. Dunnage, LLC

Uniforms For You

Van-Trow Toyota Wright Enterprises, LLC

THE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA MONROE ASSOCIATES

PERSONAL ASSOCIATES

Alissa & Anthony Abeyta Jeff & Lori Adams

Gene Ainsworth Jerry & Cathy Allen Ben & Brenda Allen Dr. Jo Ann Alley Milt & Toni Andrews Greg & Conni Andrews Eugenie Ardoin Scott & Donna Ashbrook Gary & Kristen Aucoin Ash & Sarah Aulds Waco & Cristy Bankston Ryan & Mandy Barker Guy & Loura Barr James & Amanda Barry Fran Beach Kinnison Joseph & Betsy Beard Ronald & Christine Berry Murray & Kathy Biedenharn Angie Blades Dennis & Valerie Blunt Bill & Scarlett Boles Terry Bowden Dr. & Mrs. Gregory Boyce Steven & Cynthia Boyd Chris & Monte Sue Bradberry Edward Brayton Stephen & Kathryn Brierre Nathan Brown Doug & Caroline Brown Mr. & Mrs. Grady Brown Kenneth & Jane Brown Lillian Brown Thomas Bryant Ron & Elizabeth Bush Louis Caldwell

John & Cindy Cameron Michael & Denise Camille Patricia Camp Robert & Traci Canterbury Mr. & Mrs. Sherman Cassels

Stewart Cathey Stewart & Donna Cathey Stewart Causey Sylvia Champagne Bubba & Sharon Chaney Susan Chappell Mrs. Sandra Chappell Pedro & Roberta Chavarria Pedro & Lenor Chavarria Stan & Patricia Chester Regan & Genevieve Cobb Paul & Kelly Coburn James & Deborah Cofer Clayton Cole Henry & Ann Cole Mike & Terri Collins

Cheyenne Comer Chris & Julie Coon Bob & Tracie Coons Glen & Deidre Corbin Adam Cossey Michael & Terri Cossey Jeffrey & Nancy Counts Susie Cox Charles & Elizabeth Craft Bobby Craighead Camile Currier Derek & Jan Daniels Dr. Lawrence Danna Jonathan & Sheila Davies Michael & Kristi Davis Glen Davison

Gretchen Dean Marvin & Cheryl Dearman David Derrick Gary & Chris DeWitt Dr. Judy Diffley Jimmy & Dale Dimos David Donald

Clifton & Deidre Donald Jim Doull Chuck & Angela Dowden Darryl & Marguerite Dozier Terry & Susan Duke Kaitlyn Dupuis Tom & Gail Dupuy Bob & Janet Durden Robert Edwards Mary Edwards Paul Farr Joe & Drew Farr Brett & Deanna Favre Tony Arpino & Dr. Judy Fellows Dr. Valerie Fields Tyler & Rebecca Flemister Jason & Ashley Fletcher Mike & Carolyn Fletcher Stephen Myers & Kathy Fry-Myers Stephen Futrell Clint & Sonia Giddens Chris Goggan Hardy & Claire Gordon Bill & Charlene Gordon Stefan & Tonya Green Toby & Alberta Green Tim & Gwen Green Mark & Karen Greenlaw Jim & Frances Gregory John Guice Steve & Denise Gullatt Raymond & Karen Haik Rusty & Lisa Haile Bruce & Carol Hanks Wallace & Carla Hardy Michael & Jansen Harvey

James & Lydia Hearn Rene Hebert Renee Hebert

John & Leigh Hersey Frank & Susan Hoffmann Katelyn Hogan Roscoe & Joyce Holcomb Alexandria Holland Duewayne Holley Joe & Linda Holyfield Leo & Jackie Honeycutt Keith Hanchey & Janet Hood-Hanchey Leo & Lena Hoonakker

Christopher & Erin Horrell Mr. & Mrs. Erik Hsu Jerry & Maria Huckaby John & Denise Hull Marty Humphrey Paul & Penny Hutcheson Charles & Lisa Ingraham Charles & Gwen Jackson John & Susan Jackson Joseph Jacobs & Cyd Page Jacobs

Robert James Taylor Jamison Jeffrey & Evelyn Johnson David & Michelle Johnson Michael Johnson Mr. Dix Johnston & Dr. Jan Bagwell Gary & Sissie Jones John & Susan Jones Billy Justice Rakesh Karn Michelle Keeley Paul & Anna Keliher Elton & Anne Kennedy Keith & Janet Kennedy Carole Kilpatrick William & Fay Kitchens Brad & Ginny Knight Mel & Martha Knotts Scott & Wendy Kreps Albert & Barbara Ku Cicero Lahatte Stacy Lamb Ben Lane Denny & Lesa Lawrence Nicholas & Tracy LeBas Helen Ledbetter Phillip & Pam Lester Jay & Teri Lewis John & Kelly Licciardi Eric & Linda Liew Jim & Anne Lockhart

Samuel & Debra Lorenzo John & Debra Luffey Joseph "Chip" Lyman Greg Lynch

Harvey Marcus

Charles & Brenda Marsala

Robert & Carolyn Marx

Ronald & Cindy Mason Penny Masur Frank & Bonnie Maxwell Sharee McConnell

Bill & Windy McCown

Shawn McCoy

Jay & Juli McCready Pat & Ruth McDonald

Hugh & Kay McDonald Charles & Mamie McDonald

Charles & Kay McDonald Scott & Leazel McDonald Dr. Michelle McEacharn Dr. Patrick McGee Mike McGee Patricia McGraw

Rudy & Ann McIntyre Dan & Adrienne McKay Michael & Catherine McKay

Quin Medaries Karen Melvin Gary & Alice Merchant Dr. Mark Meredith Blair Michel

Sal & Kendra Miletello Thomas Miller Al & Fran Miller Lyle & Lisa Miller Pat & Catherine Mitchell Mark & Janet Mitchell Charles & Judy Mock David & Toni Moore Spencer Moore Milton & Janet Moore James & Arabella Moore James & Lynn Moore Tim Morrison

Gene & Vivian Muckleroy Patrick Murphy

Billy Myers

Mark & Wendy Napoli Mark & Rhonda Neal Ben Nelson Shandria Newton Tom & Sue Nicholson Scott & Livvy Nunnelee Julie O'Brien

Kurt & Sandy Oestriecher Meghan Olinger Paxton & Nelda Oliver Charles Olson

Doug & Glenda Otten Mark Ouchley Michael Page Eric & Denise Pani Mickey & Christine

Parenton

Shawn & Lisa Patrick John Patrick

Robert & Kristen Payne

Mr. &Mrs. Douglas Pederson

John & Cynthia Perry

Mark & Tanya Pesek Larry & Jane Pettiette Donald Philley Markey Pierre Walter & Nancy Pierron Bill & Kathy Pippin Victor & Beth Pisano

Aaron & Stephanie Polk James & Julia Powers

Dr. & Mrs. John Pratte Janie Preciado Stephen Price Gregory & Jade Pritchard Micah & Haley Pulliam Tim & Leslie Quinn Darren & Nancy Rak Larry & Mary Rambin Louis & Lori Ray Daniel & Sarah Raymond John & Selene Rea Avi Reddy

Johnny & Carleen Reeves Cody & Elizabeth Rials Keith & Holly Richard Gary & Sharron Roberts Mark & Lynn Robertson Dan & Hope Robertson

Michael & Anna Robichaux Benjamin Robideaux Steven Robinson Roger & Dina Robison

August & Mary Rocconi

Dave & Hollye Rogers James & Frances Rogers Dale & Judy Rogers Tag Rome Ronald Roncal Gary Roshto Earl Roulaine Jay & Diana Russell

Kyle Russell Gregory & Connie Sampognaro

Bret & Bridget Sanders Matt & Merion Sanderson Mike & Nancy Savoy George & Stephanie Schaeffer

Steve Seale

Phillip & Cynthia Shaw T. J. & Wanda Shuflin

Adam & Mary Siggers

Donald & Shelley Simpson Joyce Sims

Kristopher & Hillary Sirmon

Nat & Stephanie Smith

Kyle Smith

Mr. & Mrs. Andy Snelling

Coach Lou St. Amant Everett Stagg Charles Stamper Jimmie Stapleton

David & Lenora Stewart

Jimmy & Marianne Strong Russell & Ashley Suire Kevin & Leah Sumrall Mark & Cathy Swan Bill & Lindsay Swander Shawnia Taylor Steve & Jeanne Taylor Larry & Barbara Taylor Robert Tew Thomas & Tamara Tharp Garrett Thompson Dhu & Mary Thompson Craig Thomson Tom & Karen Torregrossa Joey & Holly Trappey Elee & Terri Trichel Randy & Melanie Turner Ken & Michelle Upshaw William Vallery John & Kathy VanVeckhoven Steven Venters Mike & Sammie Vining Paul & Teresa Von Diezelski Michael & Mandy Walker Dwight & Cindy Wallace Robert & Joann Ward Jerry & Katherine Warner Brooks & Karen Watson

Dewey & Julie Weaver

Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Webb David & Karen Webre Sam & Jane Weems Douglas & Shannon Wells John & Karen Wells

Don Wepf Clyde & Pat White Mark & Kelsi White John Wilhite Vern & Dolores Wilson Kenny & Ann Wilson Fritz & Angela Winke James & Katherine Woodall Cala Woodle Kevin & Nita Woods Mike & Linda Wright Carol Young Bryan & Rachel Zander

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

PRESIDENT

Ash Aulds (BS ‘14, MBA ‘15)

VICE PRESIDENT–ADMINISTRATION

Joseph Beard (BS '09)

VICE PRESIDENT–OPERATIONS

Renee Hebert (BA ‘91, M.Ed. ‘00)

SECRETARY–PARLIAMENTARIAN

Dr. Grace Cascio-Houston (BS '64, MS '74)

VICE PRESIDENT–FINANCE

Justin Mailhes (BBA ‘13)

PAST-PRESIDENT

Julie Harlan-O'Brien (BA '80)

AT-LARGE VICE PRESIDENTS

Jennifer Ables (BA '97, MS '99)

DeAndre Alexander ('08 BGS)

Keith Beard (BA ‘84)

Monica Butler (BBA ’05, MA ‘08)

DeJaneiro Davis (BBA '99, MAT '13, M.Ed. '18)

Lacy L. Durham (BBA ‘01)

Dakota Hawkins (BA ‘15)

Dr. Toni Lowe (BBA ’00)

Mary Linda McCann (BBA ’91, MBA ’98)

Shawn McCoy ('85 BBA, MBA '87)

Spencer Moore (BA ‘12)

Wally Mulhearn (BS '85)

Kyle Russell (BBA '85)

Thad Schaeffer (Alumni by Choice)

David Smith (BS ‘83)

Robert Wright (BA ’12, MA ’20)

Complete bios are available at alumni.ulm.edu/page/board

RETIREMENTS

SEPTEMBER 2021 Curtis K. Kilpatrick

DECEMBER 2021 Cheryl A. Lewis

JANUARY 2022

Pamela R. Hendrix Juanita Hyatt Evangeline Pritchard Dennis M. Pruden Barbara J. Roberson Valerie A. Robinson Kahyon L. Sciara

FEBRUARY 2022

Madelaine Lanham

MARCH 2022 Arthur L. Jenkins

APRIL 2022 Virginia S. Allen Barbara Michaelides

MAY 2022

Fredrick W. Adams Sharon C. Chaney Sharon Cruse Gregory W. Smith

JUNE 2022 Barbara Jean Pugh

IN MEMORIAM

Albert Martin Alexander Myatt Alicia Lewis Amanda Coburn Amanda Vicknair Amy Mills Ann Fritsche Aubrey Robinson Barbara Russell Bessie McMillan Betty Laiche Betty Sims Bobbie Freeman Bobby Adair Brenda Payne Brenda Stelly Bruce Jones Bryan Blevins Cari Thomas Carl Gaither Carl Pitre Carmel Strickland Carolyn Davis Carolyn Elliott Carolyn Franks Carolyn Lewing Cathy Pohl Charles Hart Charlotte Dante Clifton Spikes Craig Pederson Daniel Jennings Darcelle Delrie David Dismukes David Elkin David Laborde David McGaha Debbie Tompkins Deborah Kitchen Deborah McDaniel Debra Thomas Dena Leggett Dennis Dees Dianne Bruscato Dinah Williams Don Hoyt Donald Holloway Dorothy Roebuck Dorothy Ward Douglas Salter Duane Taylor Dwain McVay Elbert Via Erma Harp Eugene Goodwin Francis Henley

Freddie Free Gary Auttonberry Gary Gunn George Chaney George Marks George Nichols Georgia Filhiol Gerald Baum Gerald Cobb Gerald Golden Ginny Kenny Glen Carroll Glen Morgan Glenda Hale Glenda Watkins Gloria Sims Herbert Buch Herschel Gentry Hiram Taylor Irby Bourque James Bellamy James Brown James Cook James Geisler James Lowery James Marks James Todd James White Jamie Chambless Jana Elliott Jane Ellett Janet Russell Janet Tims Janis Perry Jeanie Johnson Jeree Farrish Jerry Hines Jerry Lindsay Jewel Byrnes Jill Fain Jo Smith Joe Fant Joe Key John Ensminger John Mercer John Nowlin John Vanderslice Joseph Cascio Joseph Talley Joshua Stapleton Joye Fellows Juanita Stevenson Julia McGough Julian Reeder Karen McCourt Karl Bailey

Kathleen Graham Kathleen Loflin Kathryn Hanlon Kay Dixon Keats Everett Kelly Lewis Kenneth Purcell Kent Anderson Kevin Jobe Kyle Russell Lanny Murphy Larry Prater Larry Seab Larry Stephens Larry Whitehead Lee Pierson Levy Redden Linda Bibby Lisa Lawson Loretta Moore Louis Whitworth Louise Rider Lydia McWhorter Lynn Barefield Maggie Jack Marilyn Hatch Marilyn Tidwell Marion Talbert Marla Munn Martha Brown Martha Covington Martha Miller Mary Ford Melissa Hines Melody Goudeau Michael Martien Michael Martin Michael Tabor Michael Wainwright Milton Davidson Misty McBroom Nancy Moss Nancy Owens Nancy Post Nannette Walton Nelson McGee Olef Peters Oscar Head Patricia Summerville Patsy Kenney Patsy Morse Patty Stevens Paul Moore Peggy Barmore

Philip Saragusa Powell Layton Prentiss Grant Quinn Becker Ralph Thompson Randall Calk Richard Awtrey Richard Lawson Richard Pepersack Robert Ford Robert Hammons Robert Scafidel Robert Wilson Robert Woodham Rodger Richey Roger Short Rosalyn Odom Roy Hunt Rupert Vaughn Ryan Stearns Samuel Shamblin Sherri Sullivan Shirley Jordan Sim Davenport Stephen W. Brown Steven Kelly Sue Warren Susan Breard Susan Rogers Sytira Hatfield Teresa Thompson Terri Antley Thelma Roberts Thomas Alderman Thomas Allen Thomas Campbell Thomas Navarro Thomas Sanders Thomas Vreeland Timothy Lowery Tommie Goodwin Toni Troiano Tracie Sanchez Walter Hays Wayne Shipp William Becton William Davis William Downing William Monroe William Ober William Tatum Willie Crain Winnie Colvin Yvonne Macdonald

BOARD OF DIRECTORS; RETIREMENTS; IN MEMORIAM