ULM Magazine Spring 2016 by University of Louisiana Monroe

SPRING 2016 • VOLUME 15, NO. 2

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS AS THE WARHAWKS

ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016

FROM OUR PRESIDENT As I begin my sixth year as president, I continue to witness the exponential growth and evolution of this campus, our students, and the unique spirit that is ULM.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Dr. Nick J. Bruno President

We take pride in the amazing accolades and recognitions we have earned over the past year. Among many such achievements, we are proud that the elite Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education has designated ULM as a “doctoralgranting” university, of which there are only six in the state. This is a clear earmark of the growth of our institution and the commitment of our excellent faculty and graduate students. Our students and alumni are doing amazing things both here at home and across the globe. Whether their career takes them to the classroom or to the

TAKE FLIGHT!

Nick J. Bruno, Ph.D. ULM President

boardroom, ULM is doing our part to get them there and to ensure their success. We are making strides each day to continue to become a better institution for our students, a better place to work for our faculty and staff, and a better place to call home for our alumni. With each turn of the year comes new hope and inspiration for the future, and our hope is that we continue to impact our community and make our alumni proud. We are seeing to it that the ULM degree becomes more and more valuable. Join me as we embark on ULM’s next chapter that will be bigger and better than ever before. We welcome you to come back and visit, or rediscover the university you still call your own. You are always welcome!

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CONTENTS

ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016

ON THE COVER This year the university celebrates the 10th Anniversary of our mascot, the Warhawk. The contents in this magazine will provide a piece of history to explain how the Warhawk was chosen. It will also show how our Warhwawk community continues to “take flight” on campus, in the community, and even across the country.

LEGACIE S

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE WARHAWK

20 PROFESSOR’S TORNADO RESEARCH TO IMPROVE REGIONAL SEVERE WEATHER FORECASTING

LEGACIES

38 ULM WELCOMES MATT VIATOR AS HEAD FOOTBALL COACH

40 THE UNTOLD STORY OF THE ‘ULM BOYS’

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WORLD CHAMPION SKIER

CONTENTS

2006 - 2016

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SPRING 2016 VOLUME 15, NO. 2 PRESIDENT Nick J. Bruno, Ph.D. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ULM FOUNDATION AND ALUMNI RELATIONS Susan Chappell (BBA ’82, MBA ’87) DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI AFFAIRS Robin Stockton Underwood (BBA ’00) PRESIDENT, ULM ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Brenda Dudley (BBA ’84, MBA ’86) DIRECTOR COMM & MARKETING Julia B. Letlow, Ph.D. (BA ’02, MA ’05) EDITOR IN CHIEF

EDITORIAL TEAM

Brice C. Jones, Ph.D. CREATIVE DIRECTOR Srdjan Marjanovic (BFA ’12) GRAPHIC DESIGNER & PRINT Shanette L. Washington (BFA ’02) PHOTOGRAPHY Emerald M. Harris (BFA ’13) CONTRIBUTORS

Richard Lupo Stefan Hrabar/CSIRO Sean Chenoweth Minerva Studio/Bigstock.com Adam Sedlmajer Gregor Halenda Karry Hosford ZogArt/Bigstock.com Terrance Armstard Jeanette Slayter Sarah Torregrossa

The ULM Magazine is published for members of the ULM Alumni Association and friends of the University of Louisiana Monroe and the ULM Alumni Association. Letters and comments should be sent to: The ULM Magazine 700 University Avenue Monroe, LA 71209-2500 (318) 342-5440 Email: ulmmagazine@ulm.edu

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Any letters or comments may be published and edited for length. Contents © 2016 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.

ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE WARHAWK

P-40 WARHAWK

photo by Richard Lupo

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The Warhawk mascot “Ace” is here pictured in the cockpit of an authentic Curtiss P-40 “Warhawk” plane, an American fighter plane that was seen as one of the deadliest aircrafts of the Second Sino-Japanese War and WWII.

BY BRICE JONES

ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE WARHAWK THIS YEAR MARKS THE TENTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE WARHAWK, WHICH ULM ADOPTED AS ITS OFFICIAL MASCOT IN 2006. THE ROOTS OF THE WARHAWK ARE MUCH DEEPER THAN SOME MIGHT THINK, HOWEVER.

THE MAKING OF A LEGACY CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE WARHAWK

The Warhawk takes its name from the Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, an American fighter plane that was seen as one of the deadliest aircrafts of the Second Sino-Japanese War and WWII. Designed for low-altitude combat, the P-40 was heavily armed, structurally strong, and available in great numbers. The P-40, identified by its shark teeth nose art, became the ruler of the sky, a force to be reckoned with. The P-40 saw action from the beginning of WWII until the end in 1945, but the fighter plane is best remembered as the aircraft flown by the “Flying Tigers,” or American Volunteer Group (AVG). This group of mercenary pilots was established in 1941 and led by General Claire Lee Chennault, who had been appointed as chief air adviser to China’s leader Chiang Kai-shek in 1937. Back home on American soil, Chennault was a controversial figure. Raised in northeast Louisiana, Chennault overcame many struggles during his formative years. He lost his mother at the age of eight and his step-mother at the age of sixteen. Chennault would frequently go on hunting trips alone and stay in the woods for days. Some surmise that the survival skills he learned at a young age contributed to his fierce and steadfast approach to military aviation later on.

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Chennault’s military career was also marked by much adversity. He

was denied his aviation license four times, denied promotion due to doubts about his qualifications, quarreled with higher-ranking military officials, and was ultimately forced into retirement in 1937. He was told he had to give up what he loved the most. But Chennault was not finished serving his country. He would just have to serve his homeland on his own terms and from afar. He accepted Kai-shek’s offer to become his aviation adviser. Interestingly, in a letter written to his brother, Bill, dated March 15, 1937, four months prior to the official declaration of the Second SinoJapanese War, Chennault predicted that his aviation expertise might help change the course of the war. “It is even possible that my ‘feeble’ efforts may influence history for some few hundreds of years,” wrote Chennault. Chennault’s prediction was spot on. While his unorthodox air combat tactics were frowned upon by his superiors back home, Chennault was proving to the world that the Japanese could be beaten by using those very tactics. The AVG pilots were outnumbered nearly every time they took to the air, and the P-40 was in fact no match for the Japanese fighter planes, which were lighter and more maneuverable. Knowing the disadvantages, the U.S. military said the AVG would not last three weeks, but Chennault quickly proved his doubters wrong. He trained

“TIME MOVES ON, CYCLE UPON CYCLE, AND LIFE MUST FIND ITS JUSTIFICATION IN ACCOMPLISHMENT.” — GENERAL CLAIRE LEE CHENNAULT

ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE WARHAWK

2006 - 2016

illustration by Srdjan Marjanovic

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CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE WARHAWK

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photo manipulation by Srdjan Marjanovic

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his pilots to launch surprise air attacks against the Japanese. The main combat tactic was for pilots to fly in pairs, enter a dive, and then enga ge the target in a hit and run maneuve r. As a result of Chennault’s determination and aviation expe rtise, the victories in the air were many. In fact, the volunteer pilots never lost a single battle. The legend of the “Flyi ng Tigers” was born, and Chennault became a hero in China and around the worl d. The Flying Tigers set aerial combat records that have never been brok en. The AVG was ultimately disbande d in 1942 and the war went on. But it was the success of Chennault and his hand ful of volunteer pilots that gave hope to America that victory was possible.

CLAIMING OUR HERITAGE

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE WARHAWK

WE ARE THE WARHAWKS!

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From the Bayous of Louisiana to the skies over China, Chennault was always determined to keep his mission and vision alive, even when it seemed most difficult. In the words of Chennaul t himself, “When an old, well-known road is blocked, a new path must be opened.” At ULM, we take pride in celebrating Chennault’s legacy thro ugh our own mission and vision. Just as he predicted that his efforts migh t influence history for hundreds of years, we too are committed to making new paths that lead to success through global collaboration and innovatio n. In 2006, when ULM became the Warhawks, it was never just abou ta name change. The Warhawk is more than a name, or a mascot, or even an aircr aft of glories past. The Warhawk is a symbol of our shared cultural heritage and a source of inspiration. The Warhawk is a reminder that, in the face of adve rsity, we are brave and resilient, committe d to standing up for what we belie ve in by any means necessary. We striv e to champion peace, advance knowledg e for the betterment of humanity, and live lives of accomplishment. As our natio n and our world face new challeng es and an uncertain future, we who wear Maroon and Gold proudly stand at the ready to lead and to serve. We all meet at the Bayou and embrace a tradi tion that inspires us to take flight and soar. It has been said that those who neglect their past have no future. Our history is well acknowledged, our present is valued, and our future is bright. We are bold. We are unite d.

10 photo by Stefan Hrabar/CSIRO

ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016 BY BRICE JONES

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS & SOCIAL SCIENCES

POISED TO CHANGE FARMING INDUSTRY THE AVIATION PROGRAM IS PRODUCING CUTTING-EDGE DRONE RESEARCH AND HANDS ON FIELD OPERATIONS THAT WILL IMPROVE AGRICULTURE—A MAJOR ECONOMIC INFLUENCE IN NORTHEAST LOUISIANA. UNMANNED aerial systems (UAS), or more commonly known as drones, are rapidly increasing in popularity. For years, UAS technology has been applied in various military field operations, including aerial photography, combat, and surveillance. More recently, drones have also found their way into the hands of many private citizens for recreational use. But far beyond their recreational appeal, drones can actually provide farmers with important technology that will ultimately help determine crop health and facilitate agricultural productivity overall. And while this might be news to many local farmers, that’s certainly not the case in Japan.

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In the early 1980s, Japan solicited the help of Yamaha to develop an unmanned helicopter for crop dusting applications. This initiative led to the development of Yamaha’s R-50 and RMAX, two unmanned helicopters that have been used successfully by Japanese farmers for decades. The U.S. is currently pushing to implement UAS systems in a variety of contexts, including farming. And ULM is playing an integral role in the

research and development behind it all. In 2013, ULM’s Aviation Program introduced the state of Louisiana’s first concentration in UAS technology. It has already expanded to include a Precision Agriculture and Research Center (PARC), which is dedicated to producing research in agriculture—a major economic influence in our region. The research ultimately seeks to discover ways in which various sensor technologies can be used to determine crop health. And crop health is no small issue. In fact, the livelihood of local farmers depends on it. Parasites, feral hogs, shortage of light, drought, and nutrition deficiency are among many of the causes of crop damage. In a recent study, it was estimated that feral hogs alone caused over $74 million in crop damage in the state of Louisiana in 2013. Researchers agree that total crop damage in the state is well in excess of $1 billion, although exact financial loss is difficult to determine. So where do drones come into play? According to Dr. Sean Chenoweth,

Associate Professor in the College of Business and Social Sciences, and director of research for the PARC, UAS technology is an important tool that can assist precision agriculture by detecting problems with crops by using near infrared mapping technology. “Once a problem is detected, field inspection is necessary to determine if there is a water shortage or surplus, bug pests, fungus or nutrient deficiency,” says Dr. Chenoweth. “The traditional method has been to treat the entire field for a problem that might just be in one isolated place. Precision agriculture seeks to treat only the affected areas instead of wasting chemicals on the entire field.” An unmanned aerial system consists of: a ground control station (laptop with antenna), software to program and fly the drone, autopilot software and hardware, multi-spectral camera (green, red, near-infrared), and image processing software to mosaic (stitch) the hundreds

11 Fixed wing UAV used for mapping large agricultural fields. Fixed wing UAV’s can fly longer and are more stable for agriculture image acquisition.

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“FARMERS DON’T HAVE TIME TO MANUALLY WALK FIELDS ANY MORE AND SO THE USE OF DRONES FOR PRECISION AGRICULTURE APPLICATIONS IS HIGHLY IMPORTANT.”

According to one local farmer, the real utility of drone technology lies in its ability to do what farmers

cannot physically do. “We have to micromanage things now in a way that we have never done before,” says Edward Greer, who farms in three different parishes throughout northeast Louisiana. “A farm now is larger than it was twenty years ago, so in an effort to minimize expenses, we focus on precision agriculture, of which drone technology is a part. Farmers don’t have time to manually walk fields any more and so the use of drones for precision agriculture applications is highly important.” But getting approval to operate agriculture drones is not as straightforward as many would think. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the requirements needed for farmers to operate an unmanned aircraft or drone for their business include: a Section 333 grant of exemption, a Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA), an aircraft

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— EDWARD GREER

After the drone has been programmed for flight and launched, it will fly over an agricultural field autonomously collecting multi-spectral images. The camera takes a picture about every two seconds. A 50 acre field takes about 200 images to cover. When the drone has finished taking pictures of the field it will also automatically land in a designated area. Then the images are downloaded to a computer for processing into a single mosaicked image. Healthy vegetation reflects large amounts of near-infrared radiation so the red and near-infrared channels are used to create a crop health map of the field. The most common formula used is the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), which ranges from -1 no vegetation to +1 for healthy vegetation.

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of images into one continuous map.

ULMMAGAZINE FALL 2015

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ULM Aviation Professor hand launches a fixed wing UAV to map a soybean field.

photo by Sean Chenoweth

13 Dr. Sean Chenoweth (left) and Dr. Paul Karlowitz (right) examine a Boomerang Deploy drone made by UAS Drone Corp. in Chopin, La.

photo by Emerald McIntyre

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COLLEGE OF BUSINESS & SOCIAL SCIENCES

registered with the FAA, and a pilot with an FAA airman certificate. The processing time for an application for a Section 333 Exemption alone can take up to 120 days. Thus, the regulations as set by the FAA are prohibitive for some, and potentially discouraging to many.

ULM has positioned itself to play a major role in this industry in a unique

ULM’s efforts to educate the public on drone technology are not going unnoticed. Edward D. Markle, a member of the Louisiana Board of Regents, who is also a licensed FAA flight instructor

and commercial pilot, says this is precisely what sets ULM’s Aviation Program apart from others. “One of the problems about UAS technology is that the farmer has not caught up to the technology. That is, many farmers know about drones, but they have limited or no knowledge about how to use them. This is precisely where I see ULM making a lasting difference—by opening up the classroom to educate local farmers.” ULM has been granted a Certificate of Authorization (COA) by the FAA for aeronautical research on a 50 acre plot of land in Sterlington, although the Aviation Program is pushing for regional approval. To learn more about the UAS Program, visit ulm.edu/cbss/aviation.

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But, according to Dr. Chenoweth, the benefits of drone technology for agricultural applications are countless. “I think most farmers will want to use UAS to manage their crops and livestock once they start hearing success stories of the potential of this technology from other farmers,” says Dr. Chenoweth. “Right now, this is an industry in its inception. But it has the potential of becoming a large-scale industry, one that positively impacts farmers across our nation.”

way: by educating local farmers. The UAS concentration is of course designed to encourage students to immerse themselves in the UAS technology and to keep abreast and comply with all of the FAA regulations. But local farmers are also being encouraged to get involved. For example, the Aviation Department at ULM offers free UAS and agriculture seminars, covering topics such as ground control station programming, flight operations, field mapping and image stitching (mosaicking). And this seminar, which is funded by the Delta Regional Authority, is one of many seminars to come.

LEGACIE S

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“BEING INVOLVED ON CAMPUS MADE MY COLLEGE EXPERIENCE THAT MUCH MORE VALUABLE. IT ENABLED ME TO FORM FRIENDSHIPS AND GAIN EXPERIENCE IN LEADERSHIPS ROLES.”

LEGACIES

Lynnel Ruckert SENIOR ADVISOR ON REP. STEVE SCALISE’S STAFF WHEN Lynnel Ruckert enters a room she does so with southern charm and grace. But don’t be fooled by her petite frame and gentle nature—Ruckert is a powerhouse. She worked her way up the Washington D.C. political ladder by starting as an aid on the Energy and Commerce Committee in 2001, and departed D.C. in 2015 as the highest ranking woman staffer in the House of Representatives as the Chief of Staff for House Majority Whip, Rep. Steve Scalise. In fact, she was named one of the 20 most powerful women staffers on Capitol Hill (National Journal, 2015).

After graduation, Ruckert began working for Central Bank in Monroe, and then Baker APS in Pineville as a trainer for pharmacies around the country. In 2001 she moved to Washington D.C. and during her time there she served as the campaign manager for Steve Scalise who went on to become the Majority Whip of the House of Representatives and who appointed Ruckert as his Chief of Staff in 2012. It should be noted that Scalise is the highest House Republican in Louisiana history. While being one of the most powerful women staffers in D.C. is quite impressive, Ruckert says one of her greatest accomplishments is being a Mom to Jack, age 9, and Mary Kyle, age 6. She even started a “Moms in Chief” club for other

Chiefs of Staff who are also moms. When asked to talk about one of her biggest accomplishments on Capitol Hill she said, “Definitely the work we did on Steve Gleason Act, which restored Medicare coverage for voice machines and the RESTORE Act, which provides funding to restore Louisiana’s coast.” It’s no doubt that her ties with Louisiana run deep, and she along with her husband Kyle Ruckert, who works for Senator David Vitter, have decided to move their family back to Louisiana to begin a new chapter. “I am very pleased with what we were able to accomplish for Louisiana in D.C. and I know Rep. Scalise will continue that great work. My heart is in Louisiana, and so it is with much excitement that I return home and transition into this new phase of my career.” Ruckert continues to be a Senior Advisor on Rep. Steve Scalise’s staff and currently lives in Baton Rouge with her family.

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Ruckert began her college career at the University of Louisiana Monroe (formerly Northeast Louisiana University) in 1988 and graduated in 1992 with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations. She was highly involved on campus and speaks fondly of her time as a member of Alpha Omricron Pi Sorority, Secretary of the Student Government Association, 31 Ambassadors, Indian Scouts, and a lifeguard at the Natatorium. “Being involved on campus made my college

experience that much more valuable. It enabled me to form friendships and gain experience in leaderships roles. I have such fond memories of my time in north Louisiana,” said Ruckert.

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“THERE IS A SENSE OF INCLUSION AT ULM AND THE CITY OF MONROE IS SUCH A WELCOMING AND VIBRANT COMMUNITY. THESE AND OTHER REASONS MAKE ATTENDING ULM WELL WORTH IT.”

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Dr. Adell Brown INTERIM CHANCELLOR FOR AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH AND EXTENSION CENTER, SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY DR. ADELL Brown received a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness from ULM in 1972. He went on to receive a M.B.A. in management and finance from the University of Southwest Louisiana in 1978 and a Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics from LSU in 1984. He has spent most of his career in higher education administration, with a focus on policy, finance management, and strategic planning. Currently, he serves as Interim Chancellor for the Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Baton Rouge, which coordinates research projects on agricultural productivity and nutrition. Under his leadership, the programmatic and operational budgets at the Southern University Ag Center

has grown more than thirty-five percent. “I came to ULM before integration was implemented in northeast Louisiana,” said Dr. Brown. “Pursuing higher education during that time was difficult, but it gave me much confidence going into the workforce and it ultimately paid dividends for my career.” Through his career, Dr. Brown has made an enormous impact on his community and the surrounding regions. While regional director of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), an organization comprised of historically African American international Greek fraternities and sororities, Dr. Brown chartered the first chapter of the NPHC at ULM. Currently,

he serves as the president/chair of “100 Black Men of Metro Baton Rouge,” a non-profit organization through which African-American males step forward and assume roles of community leadership, responsibility and guidance. “There is a sense of inclusion at ULM and the city of Monroe is such a welcoming and vibrant community. These and other reasons make attending ULM well worth it.” Dr. Brown is married to Doris Gray Brown, who received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from ULM in 1975.

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“I DISCOVERED MY INDEPENDENCE AND STARTED ON A JOURNEY AS AN ADULT THAT WOULD SET THE PATH FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE.”

COLLEGE OF HEALTH & LEGACIES PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES

Dr. Margaret A. Neale ADAMS DISTINGUISHED PROFESSOR OF MANAGEMENT, STANFORD UNIVERSITY DR. MARGARET A. Neale is the Adams Distinguished Professor of Management at Stanford University. She received a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from ULM in 1972, Master’s degrees from the Medical College of Virginia and Virginia Commonwealth University, and a Ph.D. in Business Administration from the University of Texas. Prior to joining Stanford’s faculty in 1995, she was the J.L. and Helen Kellogg Distinguished Professor of Dispute Resolution and Organizations at the J.L. Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University. She began her academic career as a member of the faculty at the Eller School of Management

of the University of Arizona. Dr. Neale’s research focuses on negotiation and team performance. Forbes Magazine called her a “master negotiator” and a “powerful woman” in a feature story highlighting the importance of her research and teaching for women nationwide. She has traveled all over the U.S. giving lectures to equip women with the skills necessary for successful negotiating. She was recently featured in a leadership and management video on Lean In, a popular website “focused on encouraging women to pursue their ambitions.” “The first time I was ever away from home for any significant length of time

was when I went to Northeast Louisiana State College (now ULM) between my junior and senior year in high school,” said Dr. Neale. “I discovered my independence and started on a journey as an adult that would set the path for the rest of my life.” Dr. Neale is the first member of her family to be a Kappa Delta. While at ULM, she served as president of the first open women’s residence hall, was the first woman to be elected senator from the Pharmacy school, and the youngest person to graduate with a pharmacy degree. She is the author of over 70 articles and is a coauthor of three books.

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“I CAME TWO HUNDRED MILES BECAUSE I WAS IMPRESSED WITH THE ACADEMICS. FOUR DECADES LATER, I AM EVEN MORE IMPRESSED.”

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JUSTICE MARCUS CLARK ASSOCIATE JUSTICE, LOUISIANA SUPREME COURT JUSTICE Marcus Clark received a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from ULM in 1978. One of the things that stood out to him the most about ULM was just how at home he felt. “It was home the first day I arrived and has had my heart ever since,” said Clark. “I came two hundred miles because I was impressed with the academics. Four decades later, I am even more impressed.”

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After graduating from ULM, he went to work for the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office in Monroe where he earned the title of Detective before leaving in 1982 to attend the Paul M. Hebert Law Center at Louisiana State University. In 1985 he graduated with his Juris Doctorate and was offered a job with the Ouachita Parish District Attorney’s Office and by 1990 had earned the

title of Chief Felony Drug Prosecutor. Justice Clark began his judicial career in 1997 when he was elected District Judge to the Fourth Judicial District Court. During his tenure as judge he volunteered to serve as a Drug Court Judge from 2000-2001 for the newly developing Drug Court Program, and served as Chief Judge from 2004-2006. He is a member of the Louisiana State Bar Association and Fourth Judicial District Court Bar Association and past member of the Louisiana District Judges Association and Louisiana District Judges Association Executive Committee. He has served on a number of committees and boards designed to move the judicial system forward, including the New Judgeship Committee, Ad Hoc NCSC Study

Committee, Criminal Judges Committee, Salary & Personnel Committee, Court Technology Committee and the Supreme Court Uniform Rules Committee. In 2009, Justice Clark was elected to the Louisiana Supreme Court. He currently serves on several boards and committees including Chairman of the Budgetary Control Board, the Sheriff’s Executive Management Institute Board, the Internal Audit Committee, the Human Resources Committee, and is the Supreme Court’s liaison to the Louisiana District Judges Association. Justice Clark’s home is in West Monroe, where he resides with his wife Allyson, a neonatal nurse at St. Francis Medical Center, and his two children, Nicole and Cooper.

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“NOT ONLY DID I RECEIVE AN INCREDIBLE EDUCATION FOR MY FUTURE AND THE FUTURE OF MY FAMILY, BUT THE FRIENDSHIPS THAT I ESTABLISHED AT ULM HAVE CARRIED ON FOR OVER 20 YEARS.”

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Jonathan “JP” Perry STATE SENATOR AND FOUNDING PARTNER OF PERRY LAW FIRM, L.L.C WEARING multiple hats is the norm for State Senator Jonathan “JP” Perry. Senator Perry graduated from ULM in 1991 with a Bachelors of Arts in Criminal Justice and a minor in Sociology. Following the completion of his undergraduate degree, Senator Perry recognized his passion to help others and enlisted in the police academy. He rose to the rank of Sergeant. Soon after enlisting, he married his high school sweetheart, the former Christine LeBeouf, who is also a ULM graduate (1996). “Not only did I receive an incredible education for my future and the future of my family, but the friendships that I established at ULM have carried on for

over 20 years,” stated Senator Perry. With determination to further his education, he returned to the academic scene to pursue a law degree. During law school, Senator Perry began his political career at the age of 28, when he was elected city councilman in his hometown of Kaplan. After graduating from law school, Senator Perry served as an Assistant District Attorney for the 15th Judicial District Court. In 2003, he embarked on an additional career, that of professional comedy. He is the past “King of the International Cajun Joke Telling Contest™.” He has registered the trademark name, “The Cajun Ambassador.” As one of the most

sought after Cajun entertainers in the country, he has been featured on television and in newspapers throughout the United States and has performed at Walt Disney World in Orlando and in Washington, D.C. In 2007, Senator Perry was elected to the Louisiana House of Representatives to serve District 47, where he represented Cameron and Vermilion Parish. In 2011 he won a special election for the Louisiana Senate and has run twice without opposition for Senate District 26. Senator Perry and his wife Christine reside in Kaplan, Louisiana with their 4 children Molli (14), Meredith (14), Major (10), and Marlee (6). WWW.ULM.EDU

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COLLEGE OF ARTS, EDUCATION & SCIENCES

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BY BRICE JONES

PROFESSOR’S TORNADO RESE REGIONAL SEVERE WEATHER F DR. TODD Murphy, Assistant Professor of Atmospheric Science at ULM, has been awarded a $60,000 grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to participate in a collaborative research project mandated by Congress to understand how severe storms and tornadoes evolve in the Southeastern U.S.

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The project, known as VORTEX-SE (Verification of the Origins of Rotation in Tornadoes Experiment - Southeast), “will be the first severe storms experiment that will have a specific emphasis on addressing the sociological factors that contribute to the relatively large tornado mortality in this region of the country,” according to the National Severe Storms Laboratory.

In recent years, there has been an increased awareness of tornado frequency in the Southeastern U.S. In 2014, a major storm cell generated three tornados that swept through northeast Louisiana. The worst of these tornadoes, which stayed on the ground for nine miles, struck Ouachita Parish, causing severe damage to many residences, businesses, and schools. While there have been notable advances in our understanding of tornado formation from previous field projects, the data collection has generally been limited to the Great Plains or “tornado alley.” A clearer understanding of storms in the Southeastern U.S. is necessary for improving methods of forecast

communication. In an effort to achieve this goal, VORTEX-SE will implement a unique instrument for collecting severe weather data: balloons. These balloons, known as “weather balloons” in the scientific community, consist of a small instrument package that measures temperature, humidity, pressure, wind speed, and wind direction. Weather balloons will be launched every hour from three weather balloon systems leading up to and during severe weather. Dr. Murphy’s role in this will be to provide one of the weather balloon systems. “ULM will be launching weather balloons, performing quality control on the ULM data set, and making

photo by Emerald McIntyre ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016

COLLEGE OF ARTS, EDUCATION & SCIENCES

Tornado damage, Ouachita Parish, La., October 2014.

o by Minerva Studio/Bigstock.com

EARCH TO IMPROVE FORECASTING the ULM data available to our collaborators and other scientists involved with VORTEX-SE,” Dr. Murphy said. “Four undergraduate students and myself will travel to the project domain for up to four individual field deployments during Spring 2016.”

Dr. Eric Pani, Vice President for Academic Affairs, sees ULM’s participation in the project as a major achievement not only for ULM but also for the region. “This research is important because it seeks to improve severe weather forecasting in our local community,” Dr. Pani said. “Given the devastation that Northeast Louisiana experienced last year as a result of severe weather and tornado activity, members of our local community and region should enthusiastically welcome this project. Our safety in the face of severe weather depends on it.”

— DR. ERIC PANI

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One of these students, Stephen Kreller, a senior from New Orleans majoring in Atmospheric Science, is thrilled to have this research opportunity. “One of the great things about ULM’s Atmospheric Science department is that it provides students with unique opportunities that allow them to take concepts taught in the classroom and to see how they apply to real-life, rapidly changing situations in the field,” Kreller said.

“The VORTEX-SE project is a great example of these kinds of opportunities and I am excited to be a part of it.”

“THIS RESEARCH IS IMPORTANT BECAUSE IT SEEKS TO IMPROVE SEVERE WEATHER FORECASTING IN OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY.”

BY BRICE JONES ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016

PROFESSOR’S RESEARCH PUTTING ULM ON THE MAP

COLLEGE OF ARTS, EDUCATION & SCIENCES UNLIKE MANY RESEARCHERS, DR. JOYDEEP BHATTACHARJEE DOES NOT CARRY OUT HIS RESEARCH WITHIN THE CONFINES OF AN OFFICE, LIBRARY, OR ON-CAMPUS LABORATORY.

BHATTACHARJEE, Associate Professor of Biology, spends most of his time wading through flooded bottomland hardwood forests, scouring fallow fields, and at times slogging through coastal marshlands.

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His research centers on plant and restoration ecology, a field which aims to assist in the recreation and recovery of an ecosystem that has been degraded, damaged, or destroyed. One of Bhattacharjee’s main areas of expertise is monitoring the exchange of gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and water vapor between the atmosphere and vegetation. Such studies have become crucial in understanding the

driving forces behind climate change. “It’s beyond all doubt that the climate is changing,” Bhattacharjee expressed. “Both the scientific community and the general populace now understand that the climate is indeed changing. The challenge now is determining what can be done to reduce the effects. Perhaps we should now focus more on the importance of plants since they have been absorbing CO2 for millions of years.” According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “Since the Industrial Revolution began around 1750, human activities have contributed

photos by Emerald McIntyre ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016

COLLEGE OF ARTS, EDUCATION & SCIENCES

Dr. Joydeep Bhattacharjee, associate professor of Biology, measures the height of a tree in Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

“BOTH THE SCIENTIFIC COMMUNITY AND THE GENERAL POPULACE NOW UNDERSTAND THAT THE CLIMATE IS INDEED CHANGING. THE CHALLENGE NOW IS DETERMINING WHAT CAN BE DONE TO REDUCE THE EFFECTS.” — DR. JOYDEEP BHATTACHARJEE

substantially to climate change by adding CO2 and other heat-trapping gases to the atmosphere.” Between 1990 and 2013, CO2 emissions in the U.S. were shown to have increased by about 7%. Research has demonstrated that CO2 and other greenhouse emissions must be reduced in order to mitigate climate change.

“During the course of my research, I realized that no one was really talking about the importance of bottomland hardwood forests in global carbon research. But these forests are critical—we have lost about 70% of these forests in our region. These deciduous forests are like large sponges absorbing substantial amounts of the CO2 from the atmosphere during the leaf-on periods. My goal has been to study flux dynamics of these gases in an attempt to identify a pattern.” Bhattacharjee’s main tool for

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But before regulatory processes can be implemented and precise climate change forecasts made, gas exchanges must be well quantified and understood. And this is precisely where Bhattacharjee’s research into the dynamics of carbon dioxide exchange in Bottomland Hardwood

Forests comes into play.

24 Dr. Joydeep Bhattacharjee, associate professor of Biology, takes field notes while observing a square meter section of land in Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

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predestined to be a teacher; “acharjee” is an Indian name meaning “teacher.” It is therefore no surprise that he is a favorite among students around campus. He has been the recipient of several teaching awards just in the last few years, including the Award for Excellence in Research in the College of Arts Education and Sciences; the ULM Foundation Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2015; and the Accent on Excellence Teacher of the Year Award in 2015.

collecting data is a 120-foot tower outfitted with multiple sensors that continuously monitor carbon fluxes.

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Located in the heart of Russell Sage Wildlife Management Area (WMA), only a short drive from ULM’s campus, this tower—known as the “ULM Flux Tower”—is the only such tower in the entire state. Bhattacharjee indicated that he had some initial concerns about how local hunters would respond to the presence of the tower. In other states, sensors on towers have been shot at, costing researchers thousands of dollars in damage repair. But, according to Bhattacharjee, nothing like that has happened on Russell Sage. “One of the funniest things I’ve heard is that hunters come up to the tower wondering, ‘What is that giant deer stand thing?,’ said Bhattacharjee. The biggest challenge Bhattacharjee faces is manpower. While most projects of this kind involve many researchers working together to collect and interpret data, Bhattacharjee is a one-man team. However, he does have several dedicated students working directly with him on his research. One of his undergraduate students (Mr. Shiddhartha Dhakal) presented some of his own findings at a regional conference at the University of Georgia, Athens, for which he also received an award.

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Bhattacharjee’s next goal is to obtain a grant for a methane sensor, something that is lacking from the ULM tower. “Methane monitoring is critical because it is about four times more potent in trapping heat than CO2. During waterlogged conditions Russell Sage does emit some methane due to the decomposition of leaves and my hand just itches because I can’t measure it. Methane sensors cost about $40,000, but one of them is on my wish list.” In addition to his passion for research, Bhattacharjee is equally passionate about teaching. Some would say he was

“TWO CHARACTERISTICS THAT STOOD OUT DURING THE INTERVIEW PROCESS USED TO FILL THE POSITION WERE DR. BHATTACHARJEE’S ENTHUSIASM AND HIS ‘CAN DO’ ATTITUDE. IT TURNS OUT THAT HE DISPLAYS THESE SAME MANNERISMS IN HIS TEACHING AND RESEARCH TOO. HE WAS CLEARLY NAMED ‘JOYDEEP’ FOR A REASON— HIS JOY RUNS DEEP IN HIS PERSONA.” — DR. ERIC PANI

In 2015, Bhattacharjee was named the first Administrative Fellow for Academic Affairs, a position designed for two main purposes: to 1) assist the Vice President for Academic Affairs in completing the work needed to operate the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and 2) provide experience to full-time, tenured faculty members who are interested in pursuing an administrative position in the future. “Dr. Bhattacharjee did an outstanding job as our first Administrative Fellow,” said Dr. Eric Pani, Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Two characteristics that stood out during the interview process used to fill the position were Dr. Bhattacharjee’s enthusiasm and his ‘can do’ attitude. It turns out that he displays these same mannerisms in his teaching and research too. He was clearly named ‘Joydeep’ for a reason— his joy runs deep in his persona.” Bhattacharjee reflected on the rare privilege of serving as the university’s first ever Administrative Fellow for Academic Affairs. “Foremost, I had a great experience working with Dr. Pani. He made me feel very comfortable and provided me with opportunities that otherwise would have been impossible to experience.” “To mention one, I was able to attend the Board meeting of the UL system Presidents and Vice-Presidents. I felt honored to have shaken hands with most of the Presidents and Vice presidents of the UL system in one day. I was able to get an insider’s view of how policies are discussed and decisions made at the higher levels of administration, which most faculty members do not get to experience.” Bhattacharjee earned a Ph.D. from Texas Tech University and has published widely in the area of plant ecology.

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@ULMSB 25

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SOFTBALL 2016

McNeese State Prairie View A&M Grambling State Grambling State Stephen F. Austin Seton Hall Appalachian State * Appalachian State * Appalachian State *

6:00 PM 1:00 PM 3:00 PM 11:00 AM 3:00 PM 9:00 AM 1:00 PM 3:00 PM 12:00 PM

Wed. Sat. Sat. Sun. Wed. Sat. Sat. Sun. Tues.

Mar 23 Apr 02 Apr 02 Apr 03 Apr 06 Apr 09 Apr 09 Apr 10 Apr 26

Northwestern State Georgia Southern * Georgia Southern * Georgia Southern * Louisiana Tech Troy * Troy * Troy * Arkansas-Pine Bluff

6:00 PM 1:00 PM 3:00 PM 12:00 PM 6:00 PM 1:00 PM 3:00 PM 12:00 PM 4:00 PM

* Sun Belt Conference Games | All Times Central and Subject to Change

Tues. Sat. Sat. Sun.

Apr 26 Apr 30 Apr 30 May 01

Arkansas-Pine Bluff Georgia State * Georgia State * Georgia State *

Sun Belt Conference Tournament Wed. May 11 - Sat. May 14 Mobile. Ala.

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Feb 11 Feb 12 Feb 12 Feb 13 Feb 13 Feb 14 Mar 12 Mar 12 Mar 13

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Thurs. Fri. Fri. Sat. Sat. Sun. Sat. Sat. Sun.

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6:00 PM 1:00 PM 3:00 PM 12:00 PM TBA

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COLLEGE OF HEALTH & PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES THE WARHAWK STATUE The 2,000 pound bronze Warhawk Statue that rests at the end of Bayou Drive in what we like to call the “Warhawk Circle” is a physical representation of the strength of our mascot. Installed on May 30, 2008, the figure was created by nationally renowned animal sculptor, Sandy Scott. The sculpture, boasting an impressive 17-foot wingspan, observes and protects the university from its perch near the school’s library. Each day on the ULM campus, people stop by to take in the detail of the Warhawk that sits atop a 9 ft. tall base. Adorned by generous landscaping, the ULM Warhawk is a strong reminder of the institution’s commitment to establishing its mascot as one of the most recognizable in the nation.

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photo by Emerald McIntyre

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COLLEGE OF HEALTH & PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES

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BY BRICE JONES ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016

ALUMNA MAKES OPRAH’S ‘FAVORITE THINGS’ LIST ASHLEIGH ALDRIDGE, AN ALUMNA FROM ULM’S COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND SOCIAL SCIENCES, FOUNDED HER OWN COMPANY JUST A WEEK AFTER GRADUATING FROM ULM IN 2013. TWO YEARS LATER, HER PRODUCTS HAVE MADE OPRAH’S 2015 “FAVORITE THINGS” LIST.

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS & SOCIAL SCIENCES

IT didn’t take Aldridge very long to figure out what she wanted to do after college. With a $10,000 startup and a recipe for hot sauce from her father, also a ULM alumnus, Aldridge opened D’Evereux Foods, a food company based out of Natchez, MS whose products have become a “hot” seller. Her first product was Pepper Sauce Rouge, described on the company’s website as “a bold, ground pepper sauce that has all the heat one expects

from traditional hot sauce with the addition of a special blend of spices.” The product was a hit. Small production runs increased to slightly larger ones. Her inventory quickly depleted as new orders came in. Aldridge was pressed to begin creating new hot sauce products to meet the demand. And so she did. But Aldridge had bigger plans for her product line. “The company’s first

“I KIND OF SAT BACK WHEN I GOT THE CALL—I FELT LIKE I WON THE LOTTERY.” — ASHLEIGH ALDRIDGE

photo by Gregor Halenda

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products were hot sauces, but I did not want D’Evereux Foods to be known strictly as a hot sauce company,” says Aldridge. “I wanted to show that we were expanding our product line, so I came out with the jams.” Aldridge released three different jams: Strawberry Jalapeño, Sweet Pepper, and Huckleberry. These sweet and spicy flavored jams are 100% all natural,

and gluten, grain, nut, and soy free. The jams were an instant hit. Aldridge had created new products that put her food company on the map. But little did she know, the entire nation would soon be watching. Her jams garnered national attention when they were officially selected for Oprah’s 2015 “Favorite Things” list.

“I kind of sat back when I got the call—I felt like I won the lottery,” says Aldridge. “This was a marketing dream, an overnight resume builder.”

Aldridge contributes much of her success to her ULM education. “I don’t know anyone else who was prepared to run a business right out of college like I was, other than the people I graduated with. I feel like my ULM education afforded me with every opportunity that I have had in my business,” claims Aldridge. Aldridge does everything in-house, from labels and website content, to the writing of legal contracts. All of her products must get federal clearance through the FDA, and while most would find the entire process daunting, Aldridge claims that she was prepared for it. “ULM’s business law course was influential in helping me understand the legal aspects of running

a business,” says Aldridge. “Right out of college I had the tools necessary for understanding and complying with FDA laws and regulations, writing my own contracts with buyers and sellers, preparing lease agreements, and so on.” Dr. Henry Cole, Professor and Chair of Marketing in the College of Business Administration, says he is not surprised by Aldridge’s success. “Ashleigh was a very bright student, with a lot of drive and business acumen,” according to Dr. Cole. “Her story affirms that what we are doing here in the College of Business is on target to set students up for success.” D’Evereux Foods has a retail store, online store, and supplies 150 stores in 22 states and two countries. To learn more about their products, visit devereuxfoods.com.

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Her resume was apparently one that the entire nation was reading. According to Aldridge, “Being on Oprah’s “Favorite Things” list forced D’Evereux Foods to grow up as a company.” And grow up it did. Almost immediately, the company’s

production increased by 1,600 percent.

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Aldridge attended a trade show in Atlanta in July 2015 where she learned about the prospect of submitting samples for Oprah’s “Favorite Things” list. She submitted immediately after the trade show and then heard back in August that she was in the running. In September, she was informed that she was a finalist. And in October, she was told she made the list.

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photos by Karry Hosford

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Tues. Wed. Fri. Sat. Sun. Fri. Sat. Sun. Fri. Sat.

Mar 01 Mar 02 Mar 04 Mar 05 Mar 06 Mar 11 Mar 12 Mar 13 Mar 18 Mar 19

BASEBALL 2016 Valparaiso Valparaiso Samford Samford Samford Texas State * Texas State * Texas State * Dallas Baptist Dallas Baptist

6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 1:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 1:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM

Sun. Tues. Thurs. Fri. Sat. Wed. Tues. Fri. Sat. Sun.

Mar 20 Mar 22 Mar 24 Mar 25 Mar 26 Mar 30 Apr 05 Apr 15 Apr 16 Apr 17

Dallas Baptist Louisiana Tech Appalachian State * Appalachian State * Appalachian State * Northwestern State Jackson State Georgia State * Georgia State * Georgia State *

1:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 1:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 1:00 PM

Fri. Sat. Sun. Fri. Sat. Sun.

Apr 29 Apr 30 May 01 May 13 May 14 May 15

Georgia Southern * Georgia Southern * Georgia Southern * Little Rock * Little Rock * Little Rock *

6:00 PM 6:00 PM 1:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 1:00 PM

Sun Belt Conference Tournament Wed. May 25 - Sun. May 29 San Marcos. Texas

TBA

MISS ULM 2016

SINCE becoming Miss ULM, my motto remains. I don’t want to be a Miss ULM that is on a pedestal. My job is to be a representation of every student on campus. I want students and faculty to know that I’m available to serve them in any way possible. In just two months of my reign I’ve made over twenty-five appearances and raised over $1,000 for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

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BY SARAH TORREGROSSA

SARAH TORREGROSSA is a senior Communications major concentrating in Journalism. She is a native of the Monroe area and was a ULM cheerleader in 2012. She aspires to be a sideline reporter for the National Football League and is currently interning for 97.7 ESPN radio. Sarah also sings in ULM’s Concert Choir, writes for the Hawkeye and is a member of Public Relations Student Society of America.

COLLEGE OF HEALTH & PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES

Working with Project 41—a local organization designed to rescue, value and transform the lives of sex-trafficking victims—opened my eyes to the evil that goes undetected everyday. The sex industry is a multibillion dollar, worldwide industry that affects every city, every state, and every country. Sex-trafficking is one of the most prevalent forms of organized crime that is constantly undetected. Through the sex industry, people become products; women become a commodity; children become a means to a financial end; victims are used to fuel a fantasy; lives and families are destroyed; and dreams are crushed.

The Miss America system is still relevant. It is not a beauty pageant, but an organization that emphasizes service, scholarship, style and success. I will continue to prove the relevance of the Miss America system through my time and efforts at ULM, within the local community and beyond.

Through my platform I created the “three R” solution that encompasses the mission of Project 41: Rescue, Revive and Rally. RESCUE: We fight daily through outreach to motels, jails, detention centers and other areas of our city where women in the industry are employed. By doing so, we are able to find and rescue those who are in need of our services. REVIVE: Project 41 strives to activate complete transformation through access to vital resources, intentional programs and structured living environments all designed to create and foster growth and change. We desire to see that person fully transformed in every area of life. Our mission is to be a vessel by coming alongside victims and see them fully healed.

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RALLY: Mentorship and community are vitalities and instrumental in ending this worldwide epidemic. By recruiting more volunteers for Project 41 and bringing awareness to the issue, the victims will be empowered to live a healthy, successful life, void of shame and judgment.

32 Congressman Ralph Abraham, M.D., R-Alto addresses veterans and supporters at ULM’s annual Veterans Appreciation Ceremony in the Library Conference Center.

ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016

CAMPUS NEWS BY BRICE JONES

MILITARY AND VETERAN FRIENDL THE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA MONROE HAS BEEN RECOGNIZED AS A MILITARY AND VETERAN FRIENDLY CAMPUS BY THE STATE OF LOUISIANA. WWW.ULM.EDU

THIS recognition comes as a result of the governor’s executive approval of House Bill 485, which provides for the designation of a public postsecondary education institution as a “Governor’s Military and Veteran Friendly Campus.” “I would like to congratulate you on the exceptional work you’ve done and are doing to provide necessary

33 photo by Emerald McIntyre

According to the bill, which went into effect August 1st, 2015, an institution must meet the following criteria to be eligible to receive the designation: adopt and fully implement

— CONGRESSMAN RALPH ABRAHAM, M.D., R-ALTO

DLY CAMPUS

ULM has a long history of supporting and publicly honoring military personnel and veterans. ULM is home to the “Tiger Battalion,” an Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program that trains leaders as commissioned officers for the Army. The program provides scholarship and various stipends based on academic performance to help cadets pay for tuition.

Dr. Eric Pani, ULM vice president for academic affairs, expressed his pride in this recent distinction. “Our veterans have served this country in an important and a selfless manner, so I am proud that ULM can provide them with credit for their experience and training and access to degree programs that will benefit them. It is also gratifying to get confirmation from the governor and state legislators that our support services are helpful to the brave men and women who have willingly helped us.” Congressman Ralph Abraham, M.D., R-Alto., a member of the Veterans Affairs Committee and chairman of the subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs, offered words of appreciation to ULM for its continued support of members of the armed forces. “I applaud ULM for going above and beyond for our members of the military and our veterans. ULM’s rich military history is reflected in its very mascot as the P-40 Warhawk fighter planes played a critical role in the Allies’ victory in World World II. The faculty and staff display that proud heritage each day in the work they do for the men and women of the armed services and our veterans, and I congratulate them for earning this prestigious distinction.” The designation applies for one year, after which time the university must submit a renewal application to the Board of Regents.

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support to your active duty, reserve, and veteran students to warrant the initial designation as a “Governor’s Military and Veteran Friendly Campus,” said Dr. Joseph C. Rallo, Colonel, USAF (ret) in a letter addressed to ULM president Dr. Nick J. Bruno. “As a veteran myself, I am pleased that you have chosen to honor their past

the military and transfer process, offer application fee waivers and specialized orientation programs, adopt deployment and readmission policies, and offer priority class scheduling.

Over the years, elected military officials have been invited to speak at ULM. Brigadier General Joanne F. Sheridan, Louisiana Army National Guard, a ULM graduate, served as the fall 2015 commencement speaker. Brigadier General Barry D. Keeling, the Director of the Joint Staff, Louisiana National Guard served as the featured guest speaker for this year’s ULM annual Veterans Day ceremony hosted by the Office of Career Connections. The event honors the military service of ULM faculty, staff, and students and veterans in attendance are recognized for their service and presented with a ribbon of recognition.

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“I APPLAUD ULM FOR GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND FOR OUR MEMBERS OF THE MILITARY AND OUR VETERANS. ULM’S RICH MILITARY HISTORY IS REFLECTED IN ITS VERY MASCOT AS THE P-40 WARHAWK FIGHTER PLANES PLAYED A CRITICAL ROLE IN THE ALLIES’ VICTORY IN WORLD WORLD II.”

The university offers academic credit for military service, free tutoring assistance for veterans, and counseling referrals through its Office of Veterans Affairs, among many other benefits and services.

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sacrifices and to assist them in pursuing their academic and professional goals. Veterans are a resource which must be nurtured for the economic and social vitality of our state.”

ULMMAGAZINE FALL 2015

CAMPUS NEWS

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photo by Adam Sedlmajer

CHAMPION

ULMMAGAZINE FALL 2015

WORLD BY BRICE JONES

CAMPUS NEWS

WATER SKIER WINNING A WORLD TITLE IN ANYTHING IS A PRETTY SPECTACULAR FEAT. BUT THAT’S EXACTLY WHAT ONE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA MONROE ALUMNUS HAS DONE. ADAM Sedlmajer (ULM 13’), a native of the Czech Republic, won the 2015 Waterski World Championship, which took place on Nov. 16–22, 2015 in Chapala, Mexico. He was one of hundreds of athletes from thirty countries who participated in the professional tournament, which is held every two years. To win the World Championship title, an athlete must score the most combined points out of three separate competitions: tricks, slalom, and jump. Sedlmajer made finals in all three individual events, something that has not happened in over a decade. In the tricks competition, Sedlmajer scored 11,050 points, his personal best, which won him the silver medal for the single event.

While at ULM, Sedlmajer won five national collegiate championships. He claims that his collegiate experiences shaped his vision and drive for the success he has achieved. “During my time at ULM, the ski team was packed with people who are now on top of our sport and I am very proud that I was able to be a part of that group,” said Sedlmajer. “I learned from my coaches and team mates that, if you truly want to excel, you have to put in extra time both on and off the water. I will always be indebted to my ULM family for these invaluable lessons.” Since graduating from ULM, he has gone on to win two world titles, five European titles, one pro title, and many second and third place finishes. In 2013, Sedlmajer struggled with injuries and ultimately

“ DURING MY TIME AT ULM, THE SKI TEAM WAS PACKED WITH PEOPLE WHO ARE NOW ON TOP OF OUR SPORT AND I AM VERY PROUD THAT I WAS ABLE TO BE A PART OF THAT GROUP” WWW.ULM.EDU

Sedlmajer, who has earned the nickname “Sledgehammer,” came to ULM in 2006 from the Czech Republic and was a member of the ULM Water Ski team for four years.

He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in marketing and a graduate degree in business administration.

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underwent a knee surgery to repair his meniscus. After two months of recovery, he entered the 2013 World Championships and won 4th Overall. In 2014, he won third place in the slalom competition in both the Australian Open and the European Open, although an ankle injury he sustained during a practice session prevented him from competing in the Overall pro tournament for that year. But 2015 marked the beginning of a new era for Sedlmajer. “The year 2015 was one of the best ones for me yet,” he exclaimed. “I started to focus all my energy towards this year’s one and only goal: to win overall at the World Championship.” “Luckily, all my hard work paid off!”

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Sedlmajer has received numerous national and international awards, accolades, and recognitions. In 2014, GoPro, Inc. featured Sedlmajer in a promotional YouTube video that was posted across various social media platforms. “I am super excited that my video from earlier this year was edited and published by GoPro on their YouTube channel,” he wrote in a blog post on his website. The 2015 World Champion plans to ski as long as he is able, but he has other aspirations as well. “My goal is to ski as long as I can, but I definitely am keeping my options open,” Sedlmajer expressed. “Currently, I am starting to work a part-time sales position in order to gain some work experience outside of professional skiing.”

“I STARTED TO FOCUS ALL MY ENERGY TOWARDS THIS YEAR’S ONE AND ONLY GOAL: TO WIN OVERALL AT THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP.” — ADAM SEDLMAJER

Sedlmajer lives in Orlando, Florida with his fiancée, Alex Lauretano, a pro skier whom he began dating while a student at ULM. He sees his engagement as a major life accomplishment—something far more important than skiing. No matter where life takes Sedlmajer, his sport will go with him. “Water skiing will forever be in my life even when I stop doing it on a professional level,” Sedlmajer stated. WWW.ULM.EDU

photo by Adam Sedlmajer

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CAMPUS NEWS

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Adam Sedlmajer practicing the long jump captured by GoPro.

38 BY BRICE JONES

ULM WELCOMES

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MATT VIATOR AS HEAD FOOTBALL COACH THE University of Louisiana Monroe officially announced the hiring of Matt Viator as head football coach in a press conference Tuesday, Dec. 16th, at JPS Field at Malone Stadium.

CAMPUS NEWS

ULM president Dr. Nick J. Bruno, the chair of the search committee, Pat Mitchell, and ULM athletic director, Brian Wickstrom, offered words of welcome in front of more than 200 guests in attendance. “I feel very good about this selection,” said Bruno. “I feel this is another individual being added to the Warhawk team, and I mean the comprehensive team that makes up this university, its

high-definition video display board. Mitchell, a ULM alumnus and former football player, was the next to offer words of welcome. He expressed how committed the search committee was in finding the right guy and how excited they are with the outcome. “I know every one of us took this task on with a sense of pride and privilege,” said Mitchell. “I think we couldn’t have done a better job. The choice that came out of our meetings was clear. Coach Viator is a winner, a proven winner, a player’s coach, a coach’s coach—he’s going to pull in the entire state of Louisiana.” Mitchell indicated that, as long

Viator speaks with members of the audience following press conference. Viator (right) holds coach’s jersey together with athletic director Dr. Brian Wickstrom (left). Viator speaks to a large crowd at a press conference welcoming him to the university.

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alumni, its supporters. We’re going to move forward in a positive manner.”

as he has been head coach, Viator has never had a losing record.

Bruno ended by jokingly recounting how when he was elected as university president, he was welcomed to ULM with a 2x3 foam board with his name on it. “Here you are now on the Jumbotron, so that sets the bar quite high for you,” Bruno said in gest, while pointing to Viator’s photo displayed on JPS Field’s

“So coach, no pressure, but what that means is that, this time next year, either you’re going to have a losing record or we’re in a bowl game,” Mitchell remarked in gest. “If I’m a betting man, I’m betting on a bowl game.” Athletic director Dr. Brian Wickstrom highlighted Viator’s winning record

photos by Emerald McIntyre ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016

“COACH VIATOR IS A WINNER, A PROVEN WINNER, A PLAYER’S COACH, A COACH’S COACH—HE’S GOING TO PULL IN THE ENTIRE STATE OF LOUISIANA.” — PAT MITCHELL

Wickstrom presented Viator with a coach’s jersey and a ULM game football to Viator’s wife, Schantel, who joined Viator on stage. Viator began his speech by thanking McNeese State University for their support over the years. “Before I move forward I would like to thank McNeese for the great time Schantel and I had there for 16 years…Schantel and I will be forever in debt to McNeese for the opportunity we had there,” he said. Viator mentioned that he had time to meet several of the student athletes, ULM coaches and support staff. He indicated that one of his top priorities was to pursue recruiting “very, very fast.”

school football coaches around the state are seen by many as important from a recruitment standpoint. According to Dwain Jenkins, head football coach at St. James High School, “Coach Viator is one of the good guys in the profession. He never forgot his roots in Louisiana high school football. He always goes the extra mile to develop relationships with high school coaches.” As far as the football coaching staff goes, Viator said he would be putting together a strong coaching staff that shared the same vision he did. Commenting on his career, Viator said that he has always strived to do everything right. “All I’ve ever preached to my coaches and players is, ‘Let’s do it right. Every day that you get up and you get here, let’s do it the right way.’ And what I found is that, if that’s your ambition, you’re going to win more than you’re going to lose.” Viator ended his speech on a positive note. “The opportunity to be here is exciting to Schantel and I, and we look forward to getting to work. Thank you very much. Go Warhawks!”

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Viator began his coaching career in 2-5A class high school football, which he said he was quite proud of. As Wickstrom and others highlighted, Viator’s relationships with high

CAMPUS NEWS

and expressed his excitement about what the future holds. “We have the right guy. I’m excited for our student athletes…I’m excited about the future of ULM football. You need to start buying your season tickets…this is our chance to raise the level of this program.”

photo by Emerald McIntyre ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016

ON December 5th, the ULM football team played its last game of the 2015-16 season. The Warhawks defeated New Mexico State University on senior day, coming from behind to claim a 42-35 victory. It was a good day on the field. But it was especially a good day for one particular fan in the crowd. Jonathan Hendrix, 28, attended every home football game this year. Some would argue he was the football team’s biggest fan. At a time when some fans threw in the towel and gave up all hope, Jonathan could be heard from the sidelines, cheering on his team with a full and content heart. But he was never supposed to cheer.

FEATURE STORY

Jonathan, who was diagnosed with Down syndrome at birth, was born prematurely, weighing only 4.5 pounds. After being in the NICU for a month, he came home for five days only to return to the hospital. Within a week, he became septic, a potentially life-threatening complication resulting from an infection. Doctors told his parents that there was a chance he would not live— words that no parent is prepared to hear: “We’re going to do all we can, but the rest is left to God.” Down syndrome is the most common genetic condition. According to the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), “approximately 400,000 Americans have Down syndrome and about 6,000 babies with Down syndrome are born in the United States each year.” Caused by additional genetic material in a person’s body, the condition alters brain development, which results in cognitive delays that can range from mild to severe. However, many children diagnosed with Down syndrome grow up to live happy and healthy lives. And that’s exactly what Jonathan did, defying the odds on that horrific day in the hospital many years ago.

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Little did his family know, Jonathan would become a pretty big fan of ULM football, and that is due in part to the special relationship he developed with two ULM football players. It all began back in September

BY BRICE JONES

THE UNTOLD STORY

2014 during a home football game against Idaho. Severe weather caused a delay in play, and the game went on until after midnight. Jonathan’s mother, Cindy, recounts what happened after the game that night. “Jonathan was able to see the players that night. Every single player that walked by acknowledged my son. But Brayle Brown came back, gave Jonathan a big hug and then handed him his wristbands. From then on, he was Jonathan’s man.”

Brown, a native of Oklahoma, is a senior majoring in Kinesiology at ULM. He remembers seeing Jonathan for the first time. “I had never met Jonathan before, but that big smile on his face made me light up inside,” Brown said. “To think that something I was doing on a football field was making him so happy made me feel a sense of pride.” Throughout the season, Brown developed a closer relationship with Jonathan. He invited Jonathan to eat at Raising Cane’s with the football

41 From left to right: Brayle Brown, Jonathan Hendrix, Harley Scioneaux.

All three went Special Olympics bowling. Their families went out to eat together. And they always connected before and after each football game.

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During this time, Jonathan made another friend in Harley Scioneaux. Scioneaux, a 6’5” senior Kinesiology major, played tight end for the Warhawks who knew of Jonathan through Brown from the year before, and had talked with him on several occasions. Scioneaux became another good friend to Jonathan.

The three became known as the “ULM Boys.”

FEATURE STORY

In the final game against New Mexico State University, Brown and Scioneaux invited Jonathan on the field as part of their senior-day recognition. To them, Jonathan belonged there because, in many ways, they were playing for him—their biggest fan, now a friend. Jonathan proudly joined his two friends on the field, dressed in a “ULM Boys” t-shirt featuring a photo of all three. The football season ended, but Brown and Scioneaux continued to communicate with Jonathan via FaceTime and text messaging. “We’ve impacted his life, but I think it’s safe to say that he has made more of an impact on our lives than we have his,” expressed Scioneaux.

Y OF THE ‘ULM BOYS’ team. They exchanged phone numbers and began to text each other. Jonathan made a friend. “After games, we couldn’t even leave the campus until he had seen Brayle,” said Jonathan’s mom. “We stayed until he came out of the locker room.”

“We looked up and saw Jonathan walking, with his brace, up the ramp and all the way back down to the other end zone,” said Jonathan’s mom. “As his mother, it brought tears to my eyes. He wanted to be with his friend and he was determined to get there all by himself.” In the Warhawks’ game against Troy University, Brown went down with a lower body injury that caused him to miss the final four games of the 2015 season.

“Our season wasn’t the greatest. Many games ended with a lot of anger in the locker room. But then we would come out of that locker room and there was Jonathan, standing there with a big smile and his arms wide open. He taught us how to approach life, a lesson well-learned.” The Warhawks may not have won many times on the football field this year. But off the field, well, that’s another story altogether.

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Jonathan always sat by the end zone where the Warhawks would do their pre-game warm-ups. But in one of the last games of the season, Jonathan saw an injured Brown at the end

zone opposite the rest of the team.

Jonathan’s story is a reflection of what ULM is all about. Games come and go. One team wins, and another inevitably loses. But the spirit of life that is so engrained within the fibers of ULM never dies. The story of the “ULM Boys” is a reminder that ULM is about changing the world, making a difference in the lives of others, and looking at life in a whole new way.

SOAR

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COLLEGE OF HEALTH & PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES

TAKING THE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA MONROE TO NEW HEIGHTS

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THE ULM MAGAZINE

The Campaign

After establishing the SOAR campaign in 2013, the University of Louisiana Monroe has seen a surge in support from the community in an effort to propel the university forward during continued budget challenges facing Louisiana higher education. ULM’s constituents, with help from the ULM Foundation, have shifted the university’s future by helping to advance its mission of giving students a safe, comfortable institution, which provides innovative technology and facilities. The SOAR initiatives provide opportunities for alumni and friends of the university to participate in every aspect of its future — from endowments supporting students and faculty to building projects adorning all areas of campus. During this leadership phase of the campaign, many have already stepped up to support several of the exciting SOAR projects, including: •

The Success of the President’s Top Hawks Scholarship program is evidenced by the tremendous growth in high ability incoming freshman who have selected ULM to build their future. Since its recent inception, the number of Top Hawks is building into the hundreds! This scholarship program provides technology and summer study-abroad opportunities, and its continued growth and success is completely reliant upon private donations to recruit and retain qualified students.

•

The Opportunities for faculty, such as the Endowed Professorships established by Freddy & Reba Nolan in Business Analytics, JoAnn and Miles Sager in Computer Information Systems, and Regions Bank in Accounting, will help meet the workforce demands for graduates, and provide funds critical for research, continuing education, instructional supplies, and more.

•

Achieving and sustaining competitive athletic programs and stateof-the art facilities are only possible through generous donations like those received for the enhancements of the baseball and softball complexes, the soccer field, and the brand new Malone Stadium Fieldhouse.

•

Renovation and building of facilities, such as the new National Champion Water Ski Team Facility and the upcoming ULM Performing Arts Center Main Theatre, will attract more top-tier students into the ULM family and provide enhanced community-atlarge engagement opportunities.

S O A R

UCCESS of its students is a major focus of ULMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culture of excellence. ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016

PPORTUNITIES for innovative academics define ULMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to excellence.

CHIEVING a competitive edge for ULM Athletic programs is a challenge that must be met. COLLEGE OF HEALTH & PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES

ENOVATION of existing facilities and building of new facilities ensures a quality living-learning environment at ULM.

WAYS YOU CAN

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WITH US!

Matching Gifts: Many companies participate in matching gift programs. Some companies will even match gifts made by retirees and spouses of employees. If your company is eligible, request a matching gift form from your employer and send it completed and signed with your gift. We will do the rest. The impact of your gift may be doubled or even tripled!

For more information or to make a gift to SOAR, contact:

Tribute / Memorial Gift: Tribute or memorial gift is a wonderful way to honor someone you admire, respect, or want to remember in a meaningful way, including but not limited to a professor, an advisor, a mentor, a colleague, a family member, a friend, or an alum. Others have also utilized it as a thoughtful way to celebrate a wedding, graduation, new baby, birthday or any special occasion. For more information, contact the ULM Foundation office at 318.342.3636, or foundation@ulm.edu

ULM Foundation Development Office

Estate & Planned Giving: Many alumni and friends have chosen to support the University through planned gifts such as bequests, trusts, gift annuities and life insurance policies. The George T. Walker Heritage Society honors those donors who name the University as a beneficiary in their wills or who make other deferred or planned estate gifts to ULM. The ULM Foundation can provide you with general information about estate and planned giving options; however, you should consult your attorney and/or financial advisor for more specific advice.

or visit

318.342.3636

FALL 2015

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ulm.edu/soar

ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016 photo by ZogArt/Bigstock.com

1944 ALUMNI CLASS NOTES

ALBERT H. CLOUD JR. is married to EMILY ANNE ROYCE. He is retired and resides in Dallas, Texas.

1947 ROBERT ROGERS is married to EDNA ROGERS. He is retired and resides in Monroe.

1954 HAROLD BATES is married to CAROLYN DREASLER BATES. He is a retired and resides in West Monroe.

1956 WILLIAM COURTNEY OLIVER is retired and resides in Zwolle.

1957 JOYCE CURRIE LITTLE resides in Baltimore, Maryland. She is a professor at Towson University. She was the founder of the Computer Science and the Computer and Information sciences programs at Towson University.

1958 LLOYD WILLIAMS is married to FRANCES WILLIAMS. He is retired and resides in League City, Texas.

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1959 PERRY BROUSSARD is married to JUDYTH BROUSSARD. He resides in Denver, North Carolina. WAYNE ELLIOT is married to DOLL

ELLIOT. He is a retired pathologist and resides in El Dorado, Arkansas.

1960 JOELLA MCCLEARY BRANCH (’65) is retired and currently resides in Winnsboro. WILLIAM KITCHENS is married to KAY B. KITCHENS. He is a retired ULM professor. He resides in Monroe. TOM PARKS was the Associate Dean at Clemson University and a professor at the University of Texas. While at Clemson, he founded the “Call Me Mister” project, which aided and prepared African American men to become elementary school teachers. His program is still used in nineteen different states today.

1961 GEORGE ARMSTRONG is retired and resides in Austin, Texas. PETER WOLF is married to MARIE CLAIRE WOLF. He is the owner of Wolfe’s Pharmacy, Inc. in Chauvin.

1962 GAY DEMMARY BOENEKE is married to BURTON BOENEKE. She is a retired teacher and resides in Prairieville. THOMAS PERKINS is married to ANNE EDNE DUNNE PERKINS. He resides in Lafayette.

1963 MARY COON BIGGS is married to ROBERT E. BIGGS. She resides in Monroe. JACK MCCLUNG is married to MARY

LOU STRICKLAND MCCLUNG. He is currently retired and resides in Florien. PHILIPPE OSZUSCIK is married to CYNTHIA CALTON OSZUSCIK. He is retired and resides in Mobile, Alabama. FRED VOGEL is married to CHARLOTTE VOGEL. He is a former member of the ULM Track Team and was the Junior Class President from 19651966. He resides in Mandeville.

1964 IRBY BOURQUE is married to ALINA BREAUX BOURQUE. He is a pharmacist at All Saints Pharmacy. He resides in Kenner. ALLEN BOZEMAN is married to LELA GAIL BOZEMAN. He is retired and resides in Dry Prong. ELBERT DYER is married to MARIAN DYER. He was involved in the ULM ROTC. He is currently retired and resides in Baton Rouge. LARRY RAMBIN is married to MARY AGNES RAMBIN. He is retired and resides in Shreveport.

1965 ELLIS FOWLER is married to ROSALIE FOWLER. He resides in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. JUDITH BROWN GILBREATH is married to GEORGE GILBREATH. She resides in New London, North Carolina. WILLIAM J. KRAMBERG is married to Patricia Kramberg. He is currently retired and resides in Houston, Texas. JOSEPH ROMANO is married

MARK WOMACK is married to ANNE WOMACK. He is currently retired and resides in McKinney, Texas.

1966 JAMIE DRISKILL is married to CAROLYN DRISKILL. He is a retired school administrator and resides in Mount Vernon, Illinois. JANET BEARD ROSS is married to DON ROSS. She was the Manager for the ULM Basketball Team from 1964-1965. She resides in Knoxville, Tennessee. LINDA PRICE SMITH is married to DAVID SMITH. She is retired and resides in Baton Rouge.

1967 EARL HUEY SIMMONS is married to MARIETTA SIMMONS. He is retired and resides in Alton, Illinois.

1968 EDWIN GEISSLER is married to CATHERINE GEISSLER. He is the President of Well Control School. He resides in Houston, Texas. GEORGE MEREDITH is married to JOY MEREDITH. He resides in Crosset, Arkansas.

1969 JOSEPH BOSWORTH is married to JO ANNE COLLINGSWORTH BOSWORTH. He is a pharmacist at Rouses Discount Pharmacy. JOE CANAL is a retired pharmacist and resides in Jonesville. VERNON COY is the Director of the Vernon Parish Library. He resides in Leesville. GEORGE GAHARAN is married to DARLENE GAHARAN. He is the chief Operating Officer for Talako Construction, LLC. He resides in Jena.

ANNE ROBERTS RYCHLIK is a retired nurse. She resides in Mundelein.

JAMES PHILLIPS (’66) is married to KAYLON PHILLIPS. He is an EVP for USI Southwest. While at ULM he was a member of the Military Honor Society: Scabbard and Blade, Pi Sigma Epsilon, SGA, and was the founding President of the MBA Association. BRENDA HAMMONS REED resides in Denver, Colorado.

1971 JACK QUICK is married to SUSIE QUICK and resides in the Villages, Florida. He retired from the country club industry after thirty years of business. During his time at ULM he was in Delta Sigma Pi, the ROTC Drill Team, and the Military Honor Society. HAROLD TURNER is married to HELEN TURNER. He is the President of Red River Bank in Shreveport. While at ULM he played for the football team and was in the Kappa Sigma Fraternity. MICHAEL WAINWRIGHT is married to MARY KIZER WAINWRIGHT. He was the SGA President at ULM from 1970 to 1971. He resides in Brevard, North Carolina.

1972 MICHAEL ALFORD is married to ROSEANNE ALFORD. He resides in Mandeville. DAVID BRENDLE is married to LINDA BRENDLE. He resides in Emory, Texas. NORMAN MANY resides in Downsville. JAMES MONK is married to DORIE MONK. He is a graphics artist for Bancroft Bag, Inc. He resides in Mer Rouge.

1973 DEBORAH HAYES BLACK is married to DANIEL BLACK. She is the owner of Black Global PPG in Houston, Texas. She resides in The Woodlands, Texas. JAMES HARRIS is married to LAUREN HARRIS. He is the Director of Veteran’s Affairs in the Aiken County Government in Aiken, South Carolina. While at ULM, he was a member of the Military Honor Society: Scabbard and Blade. SANDRA BENNETT UNDERWOOD resides in Chapel Hill, North Carolina,

1974 ANDY ISCA is married to HELEN JOYNER ISCA. He was involved in Kappa Kappa Psi while at ULM. He is currently retired and resides in Grayson. CATHERINE WORTHAM LONG is married to WILFRED LONG. She is currently retired and resides in Beaumont, Texas.

1975 CHARLIE CHRIS is married to ANNE CHRIS. He is a regional Construction Leader for Honeywell International, Inc. He resides in Orange Park, Florida. SULYNN GANEY is a Special Education Teacher for the Livingston Parish School Board. She resides in Denham Springs. ELAINE HAWTHORNE resides in Decatur, Alabama.

1976 FRANK MCCLOY is married to MARY JENNETTE MCCLOY. He is a Director of Pharmacy at the Northshore Specialty Hospital in Covington. He resides in Mandeville. JOHN WESLEY MCCOMB is currently retired and resides in Kerrville, Texas.

1977 CINDY KING is a registered nurse. She resides in Shreveport. DUDLEY PELLEGRIN is married to DIETTE H. PELLEGRIN. He resides in Houma. MICHAEL MORRIS is married to NEWLYN T. MORRIS. He is a pastor at Foster Road Baptist Church in Baton Rouge.

1978 LISA PIERCE resides in Tyler, Texas, where she is employed at Uthealth Northeast. She held the positions of Secretary and Senator in SGA during her time at ULM. STEPHEN TERRACINA is a Commander in the U.S. Navy. During his time at ULM he was the SGA President for two years and the Senior Class President. He was also involved in KKY, TKE, and

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ROBERT MOLCANY is married to PEGGY MOLCANY. He is currently retired and resides in Denham Springs.

LYNELLE KAYE RISER HILL-BIRKHOLZ is married to PETER BIRKHOLZ. She resides in Montgomery, Texas.

where she is a Psychotherapist at the Center for Psychological and Family Services. She was a member of the AOII Sorority when she attended ULM.

ALUMNI CLASS NOTES

J. ROARK BOYD is married to BARBARA FRANKLIN BOYD. He resides in Minot, North Dakota.

1970

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to SYLVIA ROMANO. He is retired and resides in Monroe.

the Marching Band: Sound of Today. ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016

KATHERINE MEDUS SULLIVAN is married to HOWARD SULLIVAN. She is the Central Region Employer and Individual CEO for United Healthcare. She resides in Chicago, Illinois.

ALAN C. HAROLD. She was a member of the faculty for the 2015 ULM/Twin City Ballet Summer Dance Intensive Workshop. Her choreography was featured in the “Ballgowns, Ballet & Bubbly” event held at the Bayou Desiard Country Club.

1979

CRAIG ROGERS is married to KATHY ROGERS. He is the COO/CFO for Landmark Management Group. He resides in South Lake, Texas.

CHERYL KIM ALPHA HOOVER is married to EDWARD HOOVER. She is retired and resides in Shreveport.

1986

TERRI PARKER MARSHALL is married to HARRY MARSHALL. She is a pharmacist for the National Pharmacy Services in Shreveport.

TAMARA COLLINS HENDRICKS is married to DAVID HENDRICKS and resides in Magnolia, Texas.

SUSAN PORTER PAGES is married to HECTOR O. PAGES. She resides in Boynton Beach, Florida.

BLAKE JONES was a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity at ULM. He is married to ALISON GREEN and is a Senior Project Manager for Construction Management Associates, Inc. in Lynchburg, Virginia.

ALUMNI CLASS NOTES

RODNEY POWELL is married to TAMARA POWELL. He is the CFO of the Pearl City Elevator Inc. He resides in Freeport, Illinois.

BILLY SCOTT LEE is married to fellow ULM graduate JANEANN LEE and resides in Madison, Mississippi. He is a Senior Project Scheduler for Vista Energy.

1980 FELICIA HINES ROBINSON is married to MARK ROBINSON. She resides in Grosse Tete and is a guidance counselor at Doyle High School.

1987

1981 HAROLD KIMBALL is married to KAREN KIMBALL. He is a Nuclear Pharmacist at Triad Isotopes in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

1982 JAMES LEWIS is married to BONNIE LEWIS. He resides in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. EVELYN REDDING TIDWELL is married to DANIEL TIDWELL. She is a Medical Laboratory Scientist at Glenwood Regional Medical Center in West Monroe. She was a member of Alpha Omicron Pi at ULM. PEARL COLEMAN WISE is retired. She is married to Willie Wise and resides in Monroe.

1983 SHERYL SHEPARD resides in Jacksonville, Florida. WWW.ULM.EDU

FREDERICK JONES is a professor at Louisiana College. He resides in Pineville.

1984 KEITH BEARD was recently named

photo by Srdjan Marjanovic the Assistant Principal for Homer High School by the Claiborne Parish School Board. He resides in Minden. ROBERT CAMPBELL is married to REBECCA BARR CAMPBELL. Campbell resides in Covington. He is a captain for American Airlines in Dallas, Texas. TONI HUBKA COLE is currently retired and resides in Monroe. BRENITA DUNN MCBRIDE is married to JERMAINE MCBRIDE and resides in Mesquite, Texas. She works in Detection for the Dallas Police Department. MYRA PHARIS TOSTEN is married to CHARLES T. TOSTEN, III. She resides in Monroe and is a Development Officer for ULM.

1985 CHARLES ARDOIN is married to JEANNE ARDOIN. He resides in New Orleans. PATRICIA BEAVERS resides in Clarksville, Tennessee. She has received a doctorate in Health Administration. LISA HAWKINS HAROLD is married to

LISA LESTER BERGERON is married to SAM BERGERON. She is a Housing Deputy Director for the state of Louisiana. She resides in Baton Rouge. JANET CASE GRAHAM resides in Slidell. CYNTHIA HOWARD RACHAL is a Public Health Nutritionist for the Office of Public Health in Shreveport. She is married to ANDREW RACHAL.

1988 BRETT DOLECHECK is married to CONNIE DOLECHECK. He is the Director of Engineering at TransCirrus. He resides in Raleigh, North Carolina. RHONDA KONKLE resides in Piedmont, South Carolina. She was a member of the Concert Choir at ULM.

1989 LASHONA BROUSSARD resides in Shreveport. RON CAMP (’89, ’91) resides in Calhoun with his wife REBECCA CAMP. He is the Manager of Field ServicesNetwork Relations for CenturyLink. JANE HOLCOMB is a Specialty Territory Manager for Romark

SHERI WATSON MEACHUM is a Credit Risk Management Officer II for Origins Bank. She resides in West Monroe.

1990 JANET GRAHAM (’87) resides in Slidell. TRUDIE DURDEN POLLARD resides in Lake Charles. She is a Pharmacy Manager for Kroger Pharmacy. DASHENG CHU ZHOU is married to QIPING ZHOU. He recently retired from the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality where he was an Environmental Scientist Manager. He resides in Manvel, Texas.

1991

DR. MICHAEL MARX is married to JOY MARKS. He is the owner and operator of Blazing New Trails Coaching in Oak Creek, Colorado. Dr. Marx is a certified coach and life coach and has received various degrees in these areas. CLARENCE STRAHAN is married to DIANE STRAHAN. He is a retired Chief Inspector of the U.S. Marshalls. He resides in Richmond Hill Georgia.

1992 STEFAN GREEN is married to TONYA GREEN. He resides in Monroe. ROXANNE SMITH (’95) is married to M. SHANE SEGARS. She resides in Downsville.

1993 DAWN SHIKE HOYT is married to TREY HOYT (’93). She resides in Hope Mills, North Carolina.

COREY PERKINS is married to TIFFANI PERKINS. He is a teacher and coach for the New Caney Independent School District. He resides in Humble, Texas.

DEANNA MCPHERSON RAGUS is married to john DAVID RAGUS. She is a self-employed bookkeeper. She resides in Epps. MARGARET LAMBERT TAYLOR is married to RAY TAYLOR. She resides in Lake Charles. STACY WELDON is a teacher for Elizabeth High School. She was a part of SGA, UnionBoard, the Warbonnets, PREP Staff, and the Kappa Delta Sorority.

1995:

LORA PEPPERS is a Library Associate III for the Ouachita Parish Public Library. While at ULM she was a member of the Spirit Warriors. She resides in Monroe. MAURICE “MO” SENECA is married to SHONTEL SENECA. He works for the Louisiana Assemblies of God State Office. He resides in Woodworth. BECKY WILLIAMSON KIME is married to KARL KIME. She is a pharmacist for Walgreens and resides in Springfield, Missouri.

1997: JEFF ACREMAN resides in Monroe. He is the Vice President for Triple R. Pipeline. KEVIN BUSCH resides in Monroe. He

SHERYL MCCABE BATES is married to PATRICK BATES. She resides in Owasso, Oklahoma. VONETTA WIMBY BRANCH resides in Humble, Texas. MATT HARDIE is married to DAWN HARDIE and lives in Calhoun, La. He is a Senior Director of Corporate Accounts for the St. Jude Medical Center in Austin, Texas. MINDY CHALMERS MACKENZIE resides in Winnetka, Illinois. PATRICK MORAN is married to RHONDA LAURELES. He is a meat specialist at Kartchner’s Grocery and Specialty Meats. He resides in Krotz Springs. BRET RESWEBER is married to BETH MARINO RESWEBER. He is the owner of Resweber South, Inc. He resides in Lafayette. TODD WATSON is the Rehab Director for Paramount Rehabilitation. He resides in West Monroe.

1996: SCOTT BROWNING is the Pharmacy Manager for Walgreens in Alexandria. He resides in Pineville. ANITA GREEN is a Head Start Teacher at OMCAP Head Start. She recently earned M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on early childhood. She is also an ambassador for Concordia UniversityPortland. She resides in Monroe.

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CHERRY HAYES PATTON is married to GARY PATTON. She is a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner at Glenwood Regional Medical Center. She resides in Calhoun.

LYNN MARCHBANK is married to RON NEEL. She resides in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she is a West Region Manager for Mid-Continent Group, a specialized insurance group for rare and hard-to-place risks.

Junior High teacher for the LaSalle Parish School Board. She resides in Olla.

ALUMNI CLASS NOTES

RONALD DAVIS is married to BERNADETTE CAHILL. He is an experienced journalist, pilot, and aircraft maintenance technician. He resides in Rayville.

1994

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Laboratories. She also works as an on-call consultant on infectious diseases and for Gastroenterologists and Pediatric Gastroenterologists physicians throughout Arizona.

MARY MARGARET MCCARTHY is a photo by Terrance Armstard

ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016

is an independent consultant/ educator and coach. He was a player on the ULM Football Team and was a member of FCA. LATRINA DENSON (’94) is the Assistant Dean of Students at Mount Holyoke College. She was a member of the Residence Hall Association, the Union Board, University Chorale, Delta Omicron, Interdenominational Ensemble, and Gospel Choir. TISHA FLEWELLEN is the Staff Pharmacist for Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center. She resides in Baton Rouge. CINDI NOLAN WAINWRIGHT is married to DAVID WAINWRIGHT. She is a sonographer for Imagecare Ultrasound, Inc. She resides in West Monroe.

1998:

RENEE HERBERT (’98, ’00) is employed by Hewlett Packard Enterprises. She recently relocated to Houston, Texas, to begin her new position as Global Internship Program Manager for the company.

1999: DELACY LORD DAVIS is married to BRANDON DAVIS. She resides in Monroe and is an Assistant Professor at ULM. ERIC ROBERTS is married to KIMBERLEY ROBERTS. He resides in Lakeville, Minnesota. ANGELA STEVENSON KRAUSE is married to CODY KRAUSE. She is the Director of Alumni Relations at the University of Texas School of Law.

2000:

ALUMNI CLASS NOTES

APRIL BENOIT DENNING is married to CLAY DENNING. She is the Director of Pharmacy at Thibodaux Regional Medical Center. She resides in Schriever.

PAUL CORLEY is married to AMANDA CORLEY. He is the Head Chef at Eagle’s Wings Retreat Center. He resides in Marble Falls, Texas.

MICHELLE HAMES resides in Irving, Texas. While at ULM she was a coordinator of student activities, the director/ choreographer of the Warbonnets and the Ten Little Indians, an advisor to the Indian Scouts, and was a member of the Chi Sigma Iota International Counseling Academic and Professional Honor Society.

ANGEL MALONE is a Mortgage Consultant for Mortgage Industry in Las Colinas, Texas. While at ULM, she was a member of Pi Sigma Epsilon, RSA, and NAACP. TODD POLK is a Project Manager for Mayfield Construction. He resides in Calhoun.

AMANDA JONES TREVINO is married to VENANCIO TREVINO. She resides in Keller, Texas and is an Account Executive for the FELLFAB Corporation.

2001: DOROTHY CULPEPPER SCHWEEN is married to JOHN R. SCHWEEN and she lives in Monroe. She is the Director of the School of Education at ULM. ROBIN HOLLOWAY THOMPSON is a pharmacist for SenderraRx Pharmacy. She resides in Allen, Texas. RICHARD WALKER is married to DANA WALKER. After leaving the U.S. Department of Energy in West Virginia he accepted a position as the IT Security Manager for the Raising Canes Corporation. He resides in McKinney, Texas.

2002: BRETT LARSEN is a Call Center Forecaster for CenturyLink. He resides in Monroe. JAMES POLK resides in Columbus, Ohio. SAMEER SHAH resides in Monroe. DANIEL WEDRALL is married to JANA L. WEDRALL and he resides in West Monroe. Wedrall is a LIS Coordinator for the St. Francis Medical Center in Monroe.

T WEN T Y-S I X YE AR S OF

E XCELLENCE WWW.ULM.EDU

BILLIE JOE BAILEY is a CPR instructor with the American Heart Association and is a certified medical examiner with DOTD Nationally. Coughran Medical Group employs her as a Family Nurse Practitioner in Winnsboro. LINDSEY BURNS MURRY is married to HEATH MURRY. She resides in Bastrop. JOSHUA JOHNSON resides in Rayville. He is a counselor at the Palmetto Addiction Center.

2004: ANTEJA BLACK resides in Baton Rouge. TERRI THOMAS CRAWFORD is the Breast Care Center Manager for Nash Healthcare Systems. She resides in Rocky Mount, North Carolina.

DENISE KUCH PANI is married to ERIC PANI. She is a Marriage and Family therapist for North LA Counseling Associates LLC.

2005: TOBI BUTLER MAZE is married to LATODDIA MAZE. He is an Occupational Therapist the Bibb County School District in Macon Georgia. He resides

for the basketball team from 2003-2006.

ERIC RICHARDSON is an athletic trainer for Ochsner Sports Medicine Institute in Covington.

LILA TYLER BUCHHOLZ is married to ERIC BUCHHOLZ. She is a physical therapist for Sentera Health. She resides in Fisherville, Virginia.

NORMAN THARPE is married to ANIKA THARPE. He is the Business Education teacher on the Richland Parish School Board. He resides in Delhi.

2006: DR. MARCUS M. GAUT is married to KIMBERLEY GILYARD GAUT. He is an Assistant Professor at the University of Southern Mississippi. He also received a Doctor of Nursing degree in Administration and Nursing Education from Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama. HEATHER FORWOOD GILBREATH is married to JOEY GILBREATH. She is a Manager of Indirect Tax for Deloitte Consulting. She lives in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. EMILY DEROUSSE MCGARVEY is married to NATHAN MCGARVEY. She resides in Englewood, Colorado, where she works at the Children’s Hospital of Colorado. JANIE MILBY is a Community Relations Manager for CenturyLink. She was a member of the Beta Sigma Gama Sorority at ULM. She resides in West Monroe. NORMAN RIORDAN (’06,’12) is

CHRIS DEMERS works for CMC Corporate Solutions. He resides in Monroe. JOHN FARRIS is married to AMY BUSH FARRIS. He is a Lead Software Developer for CenturyLink. He resides in Sterlington. GREGORY PRITCHARD is married to JADE BARRON PRITCHARD. He is the owner of TNet Systems and resides in Monroe.

2008: KEVIN ELLINGTON is married to RACHEL ELLINGTON. He is a Negotiator of Network Real Estate for CenturyLink. He resides in Monroe. AMY PARSONS MCINTOSH is married to BRAD MCINTOSH and lives in Brandon, Mississippi. She is the Human Resources Manager for Newk’s Eatery in Jackson, Mississippi.

ALUMNI CLASS NOTES

TAMMY JONES is married to CHRIS JONES. She resides in Farmerville.

in Warner Robins, Georgia.

ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016

2003:

ASHLEY JONES TONGUIS is married to STEPHEN TONGUIS. She resides in Little Rock, Arkansas. HEATHER HAMILTON TRIPP is married to CORY TRIPP. She resides in Monroe.

employed by Cross Keys Bank in Sterlington. He resides in Monroe. APRIL COOPER ALEXANDER is married to MONTRELL ALEXANDER. She is an Operations Unit Manager for Chase. She competed in the long jump, high jump, and triple jump while on the ULM Track and Field Team. WWW.ULM.EDU

2007: DEANDRE ALEXANDER is a teacher and coach at Arcadia High School. He was elected as City Councilman for Arcadia in January 2015. While at ULM, he played photo by Emerald McIntyre

ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016

2009:

He resides in West Monroe.

2014:

CLARISSA MCFEE is a computer operator for Monroe City Schools. She resides in Monroe.

ASH AULDS is married to SARAH BOOK. Both are pursuing their graduate degrees at ULM. He was involved in CAB, SGA, and the Honors Program. Ash is a Marketing Analyst for CenturyLink.

IAN HUNTER MARSH is married to HEATHER MARSH. He is a Seed Service Advisor for Monsanto. He resides in Imperial, Missouri.

LAUREN CHANDLER is a software developer for CenturyLink. She resides in Monroe.

THOMAS ROGERS is a Marketing Administrative Coordinator for Vantage Health Plan, Inc. He was a member of SOT from 2005-2006 while at ULM. He resides in Calhoun.

CRICKET COLLINSWORTH resides in Marion.

WILLIAM SLAUGHTER is married to RACHEL SLAUGHTER. He resides in West Monroe.

2010:

photo by Jeanette Slayter She resides in Juneau, Alaska.

ALUMNI CLASS NOTES

SUMMER HODGES is a Deputy Clerk for the Madison Parish Clerk of Court. She resides in Tallulah.

CAMERON BRISTER is married to AMELIA BRISTER. He resides in West Monroe.

CASEY MAXWELL LAIRD is married to ALEX LAIRD. He worked at the ULM KXUL Radio Station from 20082010 and resides in Tyler, Texas.

AMBER BOURGEOIS BROUSSARD is married to MICHAEL SETH BROUSSARD. She is a pharmacist at Rapides Regional Medical Center. She resides in Alexandria.

CATHI NETEMEYER HEMED is married to RUSLAN HEMED. She is a Project Coordinator for Intermountain Management. She resides in Monroe.

JOHN FERGUSON is pursuing his Ph.D. in Marketing at the University of North Texas where he is also a teaching assistant. He resides in Denton, Texas.

2011: LAUREN BABB CARLSON is married to CHASE CARLSON. She is an accountant for Georgia Pacific. She Resides in Crossett, Arkansas. STEPHANIE HARRIS is a therapist at Liberty Healthcare Systems. She resides in Monroe. BROOKE HOFSTETTER OBRYANT is married to CORY OBRYANT. She is an Enrollment Service Specialist at ULM. She was the Editor in Chief of the Hawkeye while at ULM. CLAY ROBINSON is married to LEEANN ROBINSON. They reside in Bastrop where Robinson is the owner of his own company, Robinson Etc. LLC. Robinson was the President of the Honor Society Sigma Lambda Chi at ULM from 2009-2010. WWW.ULM.EDU

2012: ELIZABETH AFFATATO is married to DAVID NEWTON. She is a Public Assistance Analyst for the State of Alaskaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Policy and Program Development.

AIMEE JACKSON lives in Gretna. She is a Senior Auditor for Ernst & Young in New Orleans. LISA ALEXANDER LOWE is married to JOHN LOWE JR. She resides in Ruston. ROBIN MEARS works for Jena Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, LLC. She resides in West Monroe.

2013: DANIELLE CRAFT BRANDON is married to ANDREL BRANDON. She was crowned Ms. Armed Forces Hawaii in 2013. She resides in Honolulu, Hawaii. MIRANDA CRAWFORD is a teaching assistant at Texas Tech University. She resides in Lubbock, Texas. PHILLIP PETIT resides in Dallas, Texas. ASMA SALLAM is married to ALAADIN ALAYOUBI. She resides in Memphis, Tennessee. KYLIE STRACENER resides in West Monroe. STEPHEN WELLING is the Lead Toxicologist for PAC Environmental.

DELINDA SHELBON is a Juvenile Justice Specialist at the Swanson Center for Youth. She was a member of the Sigma Gamma Ro Sorority at ULM. She resides in Farmerville. SHANE SILPE is a fifth grade teacher for the Hillsborough County Public Schools in Tampa, Florida. JORDAN TEMPLE lives in Monroe and is employed by Scott Equipment Company. He was a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity, Delta Tau Alpha, and CAB.

2015: STEPHANIE ALLEN resides in Monroe. JENNIFER BEASLEY is a Sign Shop Manager for Coldwell Banker Group One Realty in West Monroe. She resides in Monroe. LAURIE JACKSON FITZGERALD is a Staff Accountant for Ernst & Young. She resides in San Antonio, Texas. MOLLY MACKEY resides in Galveston, Texas. She is an Assistant Softball Coach for Galveston College. Molly was a member of the ULM Softball Team from 2013-2015. LADONNA MICHELLE MURPHY MASSEY is a Student Affairs Coordinator for the ULM School of Pharmacy. She resides in Downsville. KRISTEN TREMAINE MIMS resides is West Monroe with her husband Christopher Mims. BRITTANY PARRISH RAHN is married to RYAN RAHN. She was a member of Chi Sigma Iota at ULM and is a counselor for the school district of Pickens County. She lives in Liberty, South Carolina. GLAVE TEONA resides in Monroe. MARY WYATT resides in Ball. She was an active member in AOII, Mortar Board Honor Society, Sigma Delta Pi, Phi Tau Gamma, and NSSHLA during her time at ULM.

PRESIDENT: Brenda B. Dudley (BBA ‘84, MBA ‘86) PRESIDENT ELECT: Jeremy K. Moore (BBA ‘00, MBA ‘02)

Dudley

ULMMAGAZINE SPRING 2016

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS

PAST PRESIDENT: Ronald “Scott” Higginbotham (BS ‘85, MS ‘89) VICE-PRESIDENT: Adams Rodgers (BBA ‘98)

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

SECRETARY-TREASURER: Sara Benecke Brice (BA ‘90) REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENTS:

Moore

Higginbotham

Rodgers

AREA 1 :

Sharon Green (BA ‘87)

AREA 2 :

Kyle Keeler (BS ‘95)

AREA 3 :

Mary Ann Riddle (BS ‘74, BA ‘77)

AREA 3A:

Fritz Winke (MA ‘99)

AREA 4 :

Jamie Hilburn (BA ‘04)

AREA 4 :

Eric Weatherly (BS ‘07)

AREA 5:

Lance Futch (BBA ‘95)

AREA 5:

Bobbye Fletcher Earle (BS ‘61)

AREA 5:

Glen L. Williams (BA ‘60, BS ‘63)

AREA 6:

H. Wade Earnheart (BBA ‘72)

AREA 6 :

Sam L. Moore III (BS ‘90, MEd ‘93)

AREA 6 :

Chris Rightsell (BA ‘04)

AREA 6 :

Todd Burgess (BGS ‘92)

AREA 6 :

Kay Heck Shipp (BS ‘70, MA ‘73)

AREA 7 :

Dr. Jeff Hood (BA ‘91, MA ‘94)

AREA 7 :

Julie Harlan O’Brien (BA ‘80)

AREA 8 :

Doug Nielsen (BA ‘08)

Complete bios are available at

Brice

WWW.ULM.EDU

ulm.edu/alumni/board.html

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318-342-3145 ulm.edu/online