University of Memphis Magazine President's Report 2022

OFF AND RUNNING

The UofM began the 2022-23 academic year with a splash.

UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS MAGAZINE In This Issue

12

RECORD-SETTING GROWWTH

The Growing Relational and Generational Wealth for West Tennessee Households (GROWWTH) proposal has been awarded a $25 million grant — the largest in UofM history.

14

OFF AND RUNNING

Dr. Bill Hardgrave, the UofM’s 13th President, entered his first full academic year on campus with a splash.

18

CREATING PATHS TO COMPLETION

The UofM has made remarkable strides in helping alleviate the burden of affordability, which is the most significant barrier to earning a degree for many students. 28

REWRITING THE WEST

The Bass Reeves Trilogy, written by native Memphian and UofM graduate Sidney Thompson, shares the under-told story of one of the most accomplished lawmen in American history.

32

FAMILY MATTERS

With a more than 100year history, over 50,000 alumni and a long-standing reputation for student success, it is no surprise that family ties within the UofM’s University Schools run deep.

P 44

PAVING THE WAY

38 ORGEL EDUCATIONAL CENTER

The home of University Middle School and the newly added University High School is now the Orgel Educational Center in recognition of a generous commitment made by longtime UofM philanthropists Robin and Billy Orgel.

48 THE UNDEFEATED

The Memphis State Tigers football team completed an undefeated season in 1963, which included a memorable 0-0 tie against No. 2 Ole Miss and a 17-0 win over Mississippi State at Crump Stadium.

52

OUR FOOTBALL FUTURE

Together, the UofM and the City of Memphis have announced the pursuit of a substantial renovation to Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium to revitalize and modernize the Tigers’ historic football home.

58 SUPER ALUMNA

Dr. Sarah Petschonek earned a remarkable four degrees as a UofM student before founding Volunteer Odyssey, an enterprise focused on innovation in volunteerism.

Email Trent Shadid at tshadid@memphis.edu.

Do you have a story idea for the UofM Magazine?

The University of Memphis Athletic Department announced Kerrick Jackson as its new head baseball coach in May, making him the first African American to lead the program.

Dear Tiger Family,

Thank you for graciously welcoming me as President of our great University over the past year. I have met so many people who support and love this institution, and it has been an inspiration to see firsthand the dedication, passion, strength and vision that exists within the UofM community.

Since I assumed this role, we have been working diligently to develop a strategic plan that will lead us into a bright future. This plan will position our institution to maintain and build upon our successes as one of two flagship public universities in Tennessee in the rapidly evolving landscape of higher education.

Importantly, rather than simply being the vision of one individual, the strategic plan will be heavily influenced by the trusted wisdom of our students, faculty, staff, alumni and supporters. We look forward to sharing this plan with you in the coming months.

I am also excited to share with you this edition of the University of Memphis Magazine, featuring some of the remarkable accomplishments, people and stories that make our University so special.

Our cover highlights what will forever be one of my favorite moments as President — running through the Student Plaza Fountain with Student Government Association President Atlantica Smith and Vice President Ansley Ecker following a meeting with nearly 150 student leaders. I hope to make this a tradition to begin each academic year, as we aim to ensure our students and campus leadership remain closely connected.

Within this magazine, you will discover the story of three students who have overcome obstacles to not only remain on the path to earning a degree but thrive in doing so. I had the pleasure of hearing these students share their journey during one of our recent Board of Trustees meetings. Their hard work and perseverance are the essence of what higher education is about.

This fall, University Schools expanded to include University High School. The latest addition to the compendium is housed in the Orgel Educational Center along with University Middle School.

The center honors Billy and Robin Orgel — two great advocates and supporters of education in our community — who we spotlight in this edition.

In athletics, we take a look at the impressive future plans of Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, as the longtime home of Tiger football is set to be revitalized into a venue that positions the program to compete at the highest levels.

We invite you to read these stories and much more in this edition.

Thank you for your support!

GO TIGERS GO!

Bill Hardgrave President

PRESIDENT Bill Hardgrave

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY RELATIONS

Tammy Hedges

EDITOR Trent Shadid tshadid@memphis.edu ASSOCIATE EDITORS Chuck Gallina Patty Liles

CONTRIBUTING

WRITERS Jeff Hulet Dr. Sally G. Parish Jouy Thomas Don Wade David Waters

PHOTOGRAPHY

Wendy Adams Brooke Simpson Matthew Smith

ART DIRECTION AND DESIGN

University of Memphis Division for External Relations

MISSION

The University of Memphis is a learnercentered metropolitan research university providing high quality educational experiences while pursuing new knowledge through research, artistic expression and interdisciplinary and engaged scholarship.

The University of Memphis is governed by a 10-member Board of Trustees. The Board consists of eight members appointed by the governor of Tennessee, a faculty trustee elected by the faculty and a non-voting student trustee selected by students and appointed by the Board.

The University of Memphis’ name, seal, logos and Tigers are registered marks of the University of Memphis and use in any manner is prohibited unless prior written approval is obtained from the University of Memphis. The University of Memphis Magazine (USPS-662-550) is published four times a year by the Division of External Relations of the University of Memphis, 308 Administration Building, Memphis, TN 38152-3370. Periodical postage paid at Memphis, TN 38152.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Alumni & Development Offic, The University of Memphis, 120 Alumni Center, Memphis, TN 38152-3760.

Driven by Doing.

David McKinney Joins Board of Trustees

David McKinney, vice president of communications and public affairs for AutoZone, was appointed to the University of Memphis Board of Trustees by Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee in July. He replaced R. Brad Martin, who served as interim president of the UofM during the 2013-14 academic year and is the current chairman of RBM Ventures and retired chairman and CEO of Saks Incorporated.

McKinney is responsible for AutoZone’s corporate communications, public and media relations, charitable giving and government relations. He also remains active in the civic and business communities. He is currently serving on the Board of Directors for the Tennessee and California Retailers Association and is on the Tennessee Governor’s Council for Judicial Appointments and Tennessee Financial Literacy Commission.

McKinney has two degrees from the UofM, a Bachelor of Business Administration in 2004 and a Juris Doctorate in 2007.

Dr. Linda Haddad Becomes Nursing Dean

Effective Aug. 1, Dr. Linda Haddad became the new dean of the Loewenberg College of Nursing. Haddad was previously an Irwin Belk distinguished professor and director of the School of Nursing at the University of North Carolina Wilmington.

A native of Jordan, she has extensive experience with international health initiatives through consulting and working on projects to help train medical professionals and improve community health in the Middle East. She is a productive scholar with an extensive portfolio of publications and grant awards. Her research focuses on tobacco cessation among minority groups, and her background is in community and public health nursing.

Haddad has a Doctorate of Philosophy in Nursing from the University of Maryland, a Master of Nursing Science from the University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Jordan University.

Graduate School Welcomes Dr. Deborah Perron Tollefsen

Dr. Deborah Perron Tollefsen is the UofM’s new vice provost and dean of the Graduate School. Tollefsen joined the Department of Philosophy at the UofM in August of 2002 and has previously served as the department's director of graduate studies (2005-08) and chair (2008-13). In 2015, she became associate dean in the College of Arts and Sciences and remained in that position until August 2021. During her time as associate dean, she also served as co-lead on the University’s Process Management Group.

Tollefsen's research focuses on the metaphysics, epistemology and ethics of groups. She has published more than 40 articles and book chapters on topics such as collective responsibility, shared agency, collective knowledge and group minds. Her 2015 book "Groups as Agents" serves as an opinionated introduction to debates regarding group agency and is used throughout the U.S. and Europe in undergraduate and graduate courses.

$52.2 Million:

Another Fundraising Record

The University of Memphis secured a record $52.2 million in fundraising during fiscal year 2022. That included $29.1 million for academics, $23.1 million for athletics and $18.2 million for endowments; all record highs in those areas. The previous overall record was $44.1 million in fiscal year 2019. The totals include gifts of cash, pledges and planned gifts from alumni, friends, corporations and foundations to the University of Memphis Foundation.

“Students are the heart of the University of Memphis while donors are our lifeblood,” said UofM President Bill Hardgrave. “There is tremendous momentum at the UofM as a Carnegie R1 institution, and it is extremely impressive these fundraising records were set. On behalf of the entire University of Memphis community, I want to stress our deepest appreciation for the generosity and continued support of our loyal donors.”

Dr. Okenwa Okoli

Named Next Engineering Dean

Effective Jan. 1, 2023, Dr. Okenwa Okoli will become the new dean of the Herff College of Engineering. He is a professor and former chair of the Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering Department at the Florida A&M-Florida State University College of Engineering, and the associate director of the High-Performance Materials Institute at Florida State.

Okoli’s research efforts have garnered $36 million as a principal or co-principal investigator. He has 10 U.S. patent applications (awarded and pending). A recipient of Florida State’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Distinguished Service Award, he has contributed to efforts to recruit and retain students in STEM graduate programs with a focus on bridging the achievement gap among underrepresented minorities.

Okoli has a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Lagos (Nigeria), and a Master of Science in Manufacturing Systems Engineering and a PhD in Engineering, from the University of Warwick (U.K.).

UofM Celebrates Largest Graduating Class

The University of Memphis recognized a record 2,713 graduates at the spring 2022 commencement ceremony. It is the UofM’s largest in-person participating class in one semester. The record number of degrees awarded included 1,758 bachelor’s, 648 master’s, 115 graduate certificates, 111 law, 71 doctoral, six undergraduate certificates and four specialists.

UofM Maintains Lowest Average In-State Tuition Increase

For the third time in five years, the UofM implemented no tuition increase for all in-state students heading into the 202223 academic year. The UofM’s 1.5% average in-state tuition increase over the past eight years is the lowest in Tennessee, which demonstrates the institution’s continued commitment to access and affordability. The University also announced no proposed mandatory fee increase.

Dr. Jennifer Mandel Secures $2.2M Grant from NSF

The UofM’s Dr. Jennifer Mandel, associate professor in the Department of Biological Sciences, and her collaborative team have been awarded a $2.2 million grant from the National Science Foundation Division of Integrative Organismal Systems – Plant Genome Research Project.

Mandel, along with researchers Daniel Jones at Auburn University and John Burke of the University of Georgia, are using the grant to study the genomics of inflorescence development and evolution in the sunflower family.

Evolutionary biologists hypothesize that the sunflower head inflorescence, or capitulum, is the key to the success of the sunflower family, which makes up around 10% of the world’s flowering plant biodiversity and includes numerous species of horticultural, medicinal and industrial value and economically important food crops.

Institute for Gambling Education and Research Receives $1.2M Grant

The UofM Institute for Gambling Education and Research (T.I.G.E.R.) received a $1.2 million grant from the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (MHSAS) to expand gambling research and treatment services for all Tennesseans.

With psychology professor and Institute director Dr. James Whelan, at the helm, T.I.G.E.R. has earned an international reputation for research on the prevention and treatment of gambling disorders since its establishment more than 20 years ago. The partnership with MHSAS has also afforded T.I.G.E.R. the opportunity to maintain a clinic on campus to treat more than 1,000 people whose lives have been significantly harmed by gambling.

$5.5M Gift from Dunavant Estate Creates Endowed Chairs

Five new endowed chairs and professorships have been established at the UofM thanks to a $5.5 million gift from the estate of alumnus William B. “Billy” Dunavant. This will endow three Dunavant Chairs in supply chain management and one in agritech and regenerative agriculture. It also establishes the Laura Butler Ford Chair in nursing.

A portion of the gift, which was received via the William B. “Billy” Dunavant Foundation, will be matched from the $50 million endowment commitment from the state to sustain research activity at the UofM.

Dunavant, a 1954 UofM graduate and world-renowned revolutionary Memphis cotton merchant, passed away at the age of 88 on Sept. 11, 2021.

A GRAND

RE-OPENING

The University of Memphis Lambuth held a grand re-opening of Sprague Hall in October to celebrate the completion of a $6 million renovation. A longtime dormitory at the former Lambuth University, Sprague Hall has been remolded into office and clinical space for the UofM Lambuth’s rapidly growing nursing program.

The repurposing of Sprague Hall’s interior included 26,500 square feet of renovated space with new labs, simulation suites, study areas, office space and more. The building’s exterior has been preserved, helping maintain the historical significance and beauty of the campus.

Sprague Hall’s makeover is an important step in re-establishing the long-term stability of the UofM Lambuth campus as it greatly enhances the ability for further enrollment growth. It also serves as a significant boost to an essential goal of the nursing program at the campus — educating the future nurses of West Tennessee, where the profession is in high demand.

In May, the Growing Relational and Generational Wealth for West Tennessee Households (GROWWTH) proposal received a $25 million Tennessee Opportunity Pilot Initiative Implementation Grant. The Tennessee Department of Human Services Families First Community Advisory Board awarded the grant.

GROWWTH was one of seven awardees selected from 17 finalists and an original pool of more than 80 statewide applicants. The grants are designed to move families from a temporary safety net of benefits to self-sufficiency and economic mobility.

GROWWTH’s efforts will be highly collaborative. Led by the Center for Regional Economic Enrichment, a variety of units within the University will work with a network of three regional workforce boards, the Greater Memphis Chamber and a group of community organizations and local businesses.

“I want to congratulate the GROWWTH project leaders who worked to secure this historic grant,” said UofM President Bill Hardgrave. “This is a testament to the ability of departments across our University and partners in our region to work together

and create upward economic opportunities for West Tennessee families. We greatly appreciate the Department of Human Services for recognizing GROWWTH as a worthy recipient of such a highly competitive grant.”

The funding will allow GROWWTH to work toward its goal of eliminating key barriers to self-sufficiency for low-income wage earners in a 21-county West Tennessee region. GROWWTH has developed plans to improve family access to needed resources for economic mobility, implement a holistic approach to improving the personal and professional well-being of families, strengthen the existing system through partner resources and inspire families to appreciate the value of growth and lifelong learning.

The counties within the target region include Benton, Carroll, Chester, Crockett, Decatur, Dyer, Fayette, Gibson, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Henderson, Henry, Lake, Lauderdale, Madison, McNairy, Obion, Shelby, Tipton and Weakley.

Additionally, GROWWTH will address labor-force challenges experienced by existing regional employers and prepare for the evolving workforce demand of Ford’s Blue Oval City, which will create approximately 6,000 jobs in Stanton, Tennessee.

The goal is to serve 2,500 low-income households in West Tennessee during the three-year funding period. The resulting outcome would yield a net benefit of an estimated $850 million over the next 10 years, including a boost to the gross domestic product and a savings of $330 million from reduced social safety net spending.

“The GROWWTH team and its partners are anxious to work with the Tennessee Department of Human Services on enhancing the self-sufficiency and economic mobility of low-income West Tennesseans and addressing the region’s workforce needs,” said Dr. Richard L. Irwin, GROWWTH principal investigator and executive dean for UofM Global, the Center for Regional Economic Enrichment and College of Professional and Liberal Studies.

Plans also include the GROWWTH Academy — an accelerated workforce readiness program designed in direct response to the needs of local businesses and the target population. The innovative curriculum of the Academy will address preparation for stable employment and employer readiness for offering sustainable career pathways. Businesses throughout the region have committed to hiring Academy graduates.

A special feature of GROWWTH is the selection, coaching and nurturing of West Tennessee microbusinesses, which is of great importance to the local economy. The three-month microbusiness module focuses on empowering participants to combine their existing skills and knowledge with business competencies and resources.

“I believe our GROWWTH project, with its collaborative design, is set up to eliminate the pre-existing barriers to sustainable self-sufficiency,” said Keusi Donald, executive director of Economic Opportunities Memphis, a GROWWTH community partner. “Our aim is to see a transformation that will ultimately create bridges to never-ending pathways, giving low-income families access to living-wage employment and improved quality of life.”

A community partnership led by the University of Memphis has produced the largest grant in UofM history.

University of Memphis

President Bill Hardgrave entered his first academic year at the UofM with a splash.

During the interview process to become the 13th University of Memphis President, Dr. Bill Hardgrave elded a number of important and thoughtful questions as part of an hour-long open session with UofM students. The meeting ended with a light-hearted request, which provided a glimpse into Hardgrave’s personality.

“Let’s say you are chosen to be UofM President,” asked UofM student Randy Truong. “On the rst day of your presidency, will you run through the fountain to celebrate?”

To start the fall semester, this will be a tradition. We just started it here today.

“Heck yeah! Why wouldn’t I?,” Hardgrave responded. “You guys are going to hold me to that, aren’t you? You have me on the record now saying I will run through the fountain.

“Wait, is that illegal?”

“Well, you would be President,” said an attendee.

“That’s a great point,” Hardgrave said. “OK, it’s settled.”

Five months later, on April 1, 2022, Hardgrave celebrated his rst day as University President, but he didn’t run through the fountain just yet. The timing wasn’t right. He wanted that moment to occur on a day to celebrate UofM students rather than only the beginning of his tenure.

So, Hardgrave waited until Aug. 22, the rst day of classes for the 2022 Fall Semester, to complete his promise. He hosted a luncheon in the Maxine A. Smith University Center where he met with nearly 150 student leaders from various clubs and organizations across campus. Immediately afterward, he joined hands with Student Government Association President Atlantica Smith and Vice President Ansley Ecker for a run through the Student Plaza fountain in the heart of campus.

“I think we should have this as a tradition every year,” Hardgrave said. “To start the fall semester, this will be a tradition. We just started it here today.”

COMPLETION PATHS TO CREATING

At the University of Memphis, students are the top priority. The institution prides itself on providing access and creating opportunities that give its students a path to degree completion.

With a large number of first-generation and Pell Grant-eligible students, affordability stands as the most significant barrier to accomplishing that goal. Over the past four years, enrollment has averaged around 6,000 first-generation and 7,000 Pell students per year.

The UofM has made remarkable strides in identifying needs and finding solutions to

earning a degree for these students. From 2016-21, the University increased its sixyear graduation rate from 42.6% to 54.3%. During that same period, the graduation rate increased for first-generation students from 37.6% to 48.8%, Pell recipients jumped from 32.8% to 47.7% and students of color climbed from 34% to 49.4%.

Completion increases of this magnitude are the result of evidencebased academic support programs and innovative financial support options that enhance the educational journey and close retention gaps.

Beyond the statistics, these results are helping create positive change in the lives of the students, their families and the Memphis community with a large number of graduates remaining in the Mid-South and contributing to the region’s economy.

At a recent UofM Board of Trustees meeting, students who have been positively impacted by such efforts shared how some of the initiatives, programs and financial aid opportunities at the University helped keep them enrolled and on track for success. Here are a few of their stories.

Opportunities ABOUND

Jessie Fall, ’23

The Office of First-Generation Student Success is my home, and the First Scholars are my family. The impact these two groups have left on me is tremendous.

The First Scholars Scholarship combined with the Hope Scholarship made it possible for me to attend college. Without those, I would not have been able to afford to come to this amazing school and get to experience many new opportunities.

As a paid peer mentor in the Office of First-Generation Student Success, I have been able to give back by mentoring the first-year class through the transition from high school to college. Being able to work on campus gives me the time I need to study and maintain my 3.8 GPA (Summa Cum Laude) needed for scholarships.

My favorite opportunity yet was the chance to study abroad last summer in Hawaii. Being from a small town, this was something I never thought I would be able to do. I also spent the summer participating in the Honor’s College Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship on campus and working on a project in the biomechanics lab with one of my professors. In fall 2022, the beginning of my senior year, I had the opportunity to begin serving as vice president of Alpha Alpha Alpha, a national honors society for first-generation students. Once I graduate, I plan to attend physical therapy school.

The opportunities I have mentioned, along with ones to come, have made me a better job candidate and person. I would like to personally thank the Board of Trustees for making all of this possible and allowing other students like me to follow their educational goals.

Being from a small town, this was something I never thought I would be able to do.

– Jessie Fall, '23

Finishing THE RACE

Cullins, ’22

I would just like to thank everyone who had anything to do with the creation and funding of the Completion Scholarships to help students like me.

I graduated with high honors, Magna Cum Laude, as a health sciences major in May 2022, and I proudly participated in commencement. I was also on the track team at the University. For me, being a student-athlete meant that a semester consisted of 15-plus credit hours in addition to practice and competing while working a job — sometimes two jobs during the winter and summer breaks — just to make sure I would have enough money to get through.

I worked jobs where I wouldn’t get off work until 3 a.m. and still make it to a 6 a.m. track practice. I can’t remember when I slept! These were the sacrifices I had to make throughout my college journey.

But in my final semester, I did not have to worry about that thanks to the Completion Scholarship. I am blessed to have received this honor and pray that there will always be enough funds to continue to bless more UofM students like me, helping to take the financial burden off their shoulders so that they can focus on school and college life.

My ultimate career goal is to help young kids who have experienced abuse or witnessed abuse in their homes. I want to be able to provide a safe, positive place for them to express how they feel and a place where they can learn positive ways to look at life, despite all the negative things happening around them. I want to do that by creating and leading a program where kids across the city are welcomed and provided the support and mentorship they need.

I would like to thank the University of Memphis and the Board of Trustees for supporting scholarships like the one I received and for encouraging others to donate. Hopefully, this completion scholarship will positively impact many more students in the future.

Emmanuel

I am blessed to have received this honor and pray that there will always be enough funds to continue to bless more UofM students like me.

– Emmanuel Cullins, ’22

Overcoming DOUBTS

Stephany Umanzor, ’24

I am a First Scholar majoring in health sciences with a minor in medical assisting. I am honored to provide a testimonial on the scholarship that has served as my gateway to many opportunities. Receiving the First Scholars Scholarship has been about more than just receiving funds — it has provided me with a community and immense amount of support.

This scholarship is what has allowed me to be here today. I will be the first Umanzor in my family to receive a college degree. That brings me a great amount of joy.

My ultimate dream is to become a physician assistant and help others in the healthcare field. From an early age, I always worried that I could not reach my goals due to financial instability, grades and imposter syndrome. But here I am now, overcoming my own doubts with a 3.9 GPA. I now believe I will become everything I want to be and reach my career goals.

Because I love to help, I partake in a lot of extracurriculars ranging from fundraising to science to working in the admissions office. An example of my involvement is my role as an orientation guide on campus. Last summer, I helped the incoming Class of 2026 with their transition from high school to college. I met many other first-gen students who are in the same position I was as a freshman. I enjoyed having the opportunity to share my story and ease their worries and concerns.

The University of Memphis is where I call home. This campus has done so much for me, so the least I can do is give back in my own unique way. I represent the University proudly.

Because of First Scholars, I am moving further in my education and excelling. For that, I will be forever grateful. I thank the Board of Trustees for supporting scholarships and completion grants for first-generation students like me and for encouraging others to donate.

This scholarship is what has allowed me to be here today. I will be the rst Umanzor in my family to receive a college degree.

– Stephany Umanzor, ’24

The Memphis

Department has added a Tiger-themed truck to its fleet. The new fire engine was unveiled in May 2022 and is housed at Fire Station 18 near the UofM.

Fire

ADDRESSING THE HIDDEN WOUNDS

Since January 2021, the University of Memphis BRAIN Center has provided free mental health services for trauma patients at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital.

By David Waters Institute for Public Service Reporting

A14-year-old boy was playing basketball in a park near his home last year when a bullet red from a passing car tore through his abdomen and knocked him down.

The teenager was taken by ambulance to the emergency room at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital where doctors and nurses treated his physical wounds.

Then, in the ICU, two mental health counselors did something that rarely happens at pediatric hospitals: They began assessing and treating the young patient’s hidden wounds.

Using a form of mental health triage, they quickly determined the boy — like two-thirds of the children brought to Le Bonheur with traumatic injuries over the past year — was experiencing acute stress disorder.

Often undiagnosed and untreated, acute stress disorder often leads to post-traumatic stress disorder and longterm, life-changing consequences.

Those include impaired brain development and academic performance, increased risk for chronic physical and mental health problems, behavior issues and addictions.

Since January 2021, the BRAIN Center at the University of Memphis has been providing free, trauma-informed mental and behavioral health services to all children (and their caregivers) treated at Le Bonheur for gunshot wounds, burns, injuries from motor vehicle accidents and other unintentional traumatic injuries.

So far, the results are signicant. Of the 617 trauma patients ages 2-18 admitted to Le Bonheur in the rst eight months of the program, 64% showed symptoms of acute stress disorder, and 100% of them accepted the mental health care services.

“We have needed this for so long,” said Dr. Regan Williams, medical director of Trauma Services at Le Bonheur. “So many of our young trauma patients have mental health needs, and their families have struggled to nd it. There are so many barriers.”

Millions of Americans with mental illness struggle to nd mental health

care in a fragmented, limited, complex and costly system full of obstacles.

Nearly half of the 60 million adults and children living with mental health conditions in the United States go without any treatment, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

The problem is especially acute in hospitals, where trauma-informed mental health services are poorly covered by insurance and rarely provided.

The BRAIN Center’s program at Le Bonheur is an unprecedented eort to create a new standard of care for how hospitals here and everywhere address traumatic injuries in children.

“This is extremely progressive and pioneering on Le Bonheur’s part,” said Dr. Eraina Schauss, founding director of the BRAIN Center at the UofM. “Le Bonheur is the rst hospital in the country to create a new trauma mental health division specifially to address the enormous needs of young trauma patients in our community.”

ADDRESSING THE HIDDEN WOUNDS

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health challenges were the leading cause of disability and poor life outcomes in young people. One in ve children ages 3-17 in the U.S. has a mental, emotional, developmental or behavioral disorder, according to the CDC.

Mental health screenings for children are done in primary care clinics, and sometimes in schools. A proposed new state funding formula for public education is expected to increase the number of counselors, social workers and nurses in schools.

The patient was a passenger in a car, and the driver was killed on impact.

In the ICU, the teenager told mental health counselors that she was having ashbacks, nightmares and enormous feelings of survivor guilt.

Counselors triaged the child with the Child Stress Disorders ChecklistShort Form (CSDC-SF), used to assess traumatic stress symptoms in the immediate aftermath of a trauma.

The girl scored 3 (out of 4). The average score for Le Bonheur’s vehicle-crash victims last year was 2.18. Only victims of weaponsrelated injuries scored higher, averaging 2.40. Any score above a 1 is concerning.

In December 2021, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy issued a rare public health advisory on what he called an “emerging” mental health crisis among youth, exacerbated by the pandemic.

“It would be a tragedy if we beat back one public health crisis only to allow another to grow in its place,” Murthy wrote in his advisory. “Mental health challenges in children, adolescents, and young adults are real, and they are widespread, but most importantly, they are treatable, and often preventable.”

But mental health screenings rarely are done in hospital emergency departments when the trauma is most acute.

As a result, “most children and adolescents with traumatic exposure or trauma-related psychological symptoms are not identifid and consequently do not receive any help,” the American Psychiatric Association (APA) reports. “Even those who are identied as in need of help frequently do not obtain any services. This is especially true for children from ethnic and racial minority groups and for recent immigrants, who have less access to mental health services.”

That is especially true in Memphis, which has been designated as one of the nation’s 5,833 mental health professional shortage areas. Eight of the nine mental health centers in Memphis have “high” unmet needs, according to the federal government.

“There’s been an exponential increase in the level of trauma children are experiencing,” said Dr. Susan Elswick, director of the School Mental Health Access to Resources through Telehealth (SMART) Center at the UofM. “Mental and behavioral health needs are at an all-time high.”

Last year, a 17-year-old girl was brought to Le Bonheur with a rib fracture and collapsed lung.

Over the next several days, counselors treated the girl with Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, grief therapy and coping skills. After she was discharged, she continued the therapy as an out-patient.

Those and other cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques are eective in treating children and adolescents who have persistent trauma reactions, the APA reports.

Le Bonheur’s bedside mental health care is provided by eight student interns from the UofM’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate programs. They are supervised by Dr. Kiersten Hawes, the BRAIN Center’s clinical director who makes daily rounds with other medical professionals at Le Bonheur.

“It’s crazy we haven’t had these services from the beginning,” Hawes said.

“So many children in our community, in our society, are among the walking wounded. We can’t see their wounds, but we can treat them. We shouldn’t just discharge them and let them go back to their lives untreated.”

Photos provided by Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital.

“So many children in our community, in our society, are among the walking wounded. We can’t see their wounds, but we can treat them. We shouldn’t just discharge them and let them go back to their lives untreated.”

Counselors also treated the girl’s caregiver, who was experiencing anxiety and guilt.

Signifiant depressive and/or PTSD symptoms have been found in 20-40% of caregivers of children with traumatic injuries, the APA reports.

“Our approach is two-generational,” Hawes said. “We also attend to the mental health needs of the caregiver, so that they are capable of being present and providing support to their child who is recovering from a traumatic injury.”

The free mental health counseling at Le Bonheur is meeting a need. It’s also dicult to sustain.

The BRAIN Center’s program is funded by a grant from the Urban Child Institute, which expires in June 2023 and must be applied for yearly.

Should the grant funding end, the program will have to rely on regular billing for private insurance or TennCare, the state’s Medicaid program.

“The maze that is funding for behavioral health services is often very complex and generally does not cover every activity that a behavioral health program likely delivers,” said Alison D. Peak, executive director of Allied Behavioral Health Solutions in Nashville.

For example, insurance typically only covers the rst 60 minutes of mental health services provided at hospitals, Peak said. Most often, it covers the intake by a social worker who does not provide long-term care.

Insurance doesn’t cover paperwork time, collaboration with other providers and community resources or eorts to engage in case management for a family or youth and other similar services.

Reimbursement for mental health services at hospitals gets more complicated.

Children enrolled in TennCare or the Children’s Health Insurance

Program (CHIP) are eligible for Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) to identify possible delays in growth and development, including behavioral assessments.

But EPSDT coverage applies to primary care, not to hospitals.

Many state Medicaid programs do not allow multiple providers to bill for services on the same date of service. TennCare does, but the billable services often result in reimbursements that don’t oset the cost of the billing staff nd time required to bill for the services rendered.

In a positive change as of July 1, 2022, the use of graduate students working under a licensed supervisor to provide mental health care is now reimbursable at facilities that are licensed through the state as a community mental health program. The BRAIN Center has been working closely with Le Bonheur in order to meet those requirements and allow students to provide reimbursable services that greatly enhance the sustainability of the program and further meet the growing mental health needs of children and families in the community.

The 14-year-old gunshot victim was in the hospital 12 days. The boy was jumpy and easily startled. He was experiencing ashbacks, nightmares, numbness. He found it dicult to go to sleep and go back to sleep. He was afraid to go home and back to school. His caregiver was afraid for him.

Over the course of more than 20 therapy sessions, each lasting about an hour, the counselor talked to the patient and his caregiver about their shock, fears and anxieties, their hidden wounds.

The counselor explained how the body and brain react to trauma and stress, and the possible short-term and long-term consequences.

The counselor treated both with two forms of trauma-informed therapy: MindfulnessBased Stress Reduction and Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT), a form of psychotherapy often used to treat bipolar and other mood disorders.

IPSRT emphasizes techniques to manage stressful life events, regulate emotions, reduce disruptions in social rhythms and adjust to change.

“It was a major adjustment, but the patient is recovering well,” Hawes said. “He and his caregiver are following up for outpatient counseling. The child has returned to school and some of his normal activities.”

In 2021, mental health counselors at Le Bonheur provided more than 1,900 sessions and treated more than 850 families.

“It is my hope that our research and ndings will nd its way to the right individuals who can make legislative and policy changes to fund these critical services for patients who are most in need, and not after months or years of suering,” Schauss said.

EDITOR'S NOTE

This story was originally published at dailymemphian.com under an exclusive use agreement with the University of Memphis Institute for Public Service Reporting. It has been edited from its original version. To read the full version, visit psrmemphis.org/pioneeringtrauma-program-treats-hiddenwounds-in-pediatric-hospitals-er/.

About the Institute for Public Service Reporting

A professionally staed newsroom on the UofM campus, the Institute provides investigative reporting and in-depth explanatory journalism that aims to promote a vibrant democracy, foster inclusiveness and enrich the lives of the people of Greater Memphis. This is accomplished while providing hands-on training to UofM students who will become the community’s next generation of journalists.

All things connect back to Memphis for Sidney Thompson. That includes his motivation for authoring the Bass Reeves Trilogy — a series of books about one of the most accomplished lawmen in American history that will soon have a film adaptation as a Paramount+ miniseries.

Thompson, a 1989 University of Memphis graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in English, became aware of Reeves around 13 years ago. He spent the past 12 years passionately researching and writing about Reeves’ life.

His desire to tell Reeves’ story, who as an African American born into slavery had largely been overlooked as one of the most remarkable figures of the Old West, is a product of his Memphis roots.

“Writing about an historical figure that was mostly left out of history as a result of race is something I felt I was called to do,” Thompson said. “I felt I could do his story justice, and I wanted to. I felt that, in large part, because I am a Memphian. It felt right and natural to me having been raised in a very diverse environment that gave me perspective on race, injustice and how we embrace and portray historical heroes.”

Sidney Thompson

Thompson didn’t just graduate from the UofM. He was practically raised on campus.

Both of his parents taught at thenMemphis State University. His father, Lamar, taught and researched African American literature and culture within the scope of English education, and his mother, Julia, taught home economics. His elementary education came through the UofM's Campus School, where he formed life-changing friendships and learned from teachers he still speaks fondly of today.

“The beginning of my life was established on that campus,” Thompson said. “Growing up, I don't remember a time not feeling like the campus was home. I spent many nights and weekends there. I especially enjoyed my time at Campus School, where I felt loved and had such warm relationships and so many positive memories.”

As a teenager he would visit his older brother Stanley's dorm room to get his first experiences of life as a college student. He attended everything at the University from pep rallies to concerts to plays. Later, as a student himself, he wrote for the Daily Helmsman and played trumpet in the Tiger band and further developed his love of Tiger athletics while starting down the career path he has been on ever since.

“My first creative writing teachers were there, and I had some great ones that gave me tips I still think about today,” Thompson said. “I’m grateful for the education, but even more than that, I’m grateful for the camaraderie of the community. I still take such great pride in it.”

As his interest in Reeves began to increase, Thompson decided it was time to pursue a PhD, having also earned a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from the University of Arkansas.

He enrolled at the University of North Texas, located conveniently close to where Reeves spent most of his life and career, to start working on a doctorate in American literature and African

American narratives. In Thompson’s early days at UNT, he began piecing together the story of Reeves’ life.

“There was only one decent book I could find about this important historical figure,” Thompson said.

“Wring about an historical gure that was mostly left ut of history as a result of race is something I felt I was called to do.”

“That was a scholarly book, ‘Black Gun, Silver Star,’ by Art T. Burton, but there was no full narrative about the story of his life. I knew I had to do it.”

Through his studies of the Old West, including Burton’s book, newspaper clippings, court documents, archival information and more, Thompson was uncovering the life of a true legend.

Reeves grew up a slave before fleeing his enslaver during the Civil War and living among Native American tribes, learning many of their languages. He was freed by the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 and would then go on to become the first Black deputy U.S. Marshal west of the Mississippi River, serving mostly in Arkansas and Indian Territory that would become Oklahoma.

Throughout his career, Reeves arrested more than 3,000 wanted felons while only being wounded once despite many pointblank gunfights. He killed just over a dozen wanted criminals — an impressively low number for a lawman of the time — as his goal was always to bring in fugitives alive.

“He wanted to treat outlaws and criminals with some respect,” Thompson said. “When they were his prisoner, he would preach to them. He felt an obligation to try and reach out to them so if or when they were freed again, they would hopefully be a respectable member of society. That’s an essential part of his story — he was non-violent and used weapons only when absolutely necessary. But, if he did have to use his weapons, he was a badass.”

Thompson recently completed writing his trilogy on Reeves.

“Follow the Angels, Follow the Doves” (2020) details Reeves’ early life as a slave up to the time he became a free man. “Hell on the Border” (2021) follows his time as an experienced marshal patrolling the most dangerous area of the country at the time. The third book — “The Forsaken and the Dead” — is in editing and scheduled to be released in Oct. 2023.

The final book release also happens to be around the time the Paramount+ miniseries is expected to be available. The pilot is being directed by Taylor Sheridan, whose other credits include Yellowstone and 1883, with David Oyelowo, who portrayed Martin Luther King Jr. in Selma, starring as Bass Reeves. Thompson is serving as a consultant, helping to inform Sheridan, Oyelowo and others on the most important aspects and minute details of Reeves' story.

“When I decided a little over a decade ago to commit to narrating the life of this national icon, my grandest hope was to help make Bass Reeves a household name,” Thompson said. “Damn if that doesn't appear more likely now.”

Since 2014, Thompson has been a writing consultant and instructor at Texas Christian University. He currently teaches creative writing and African American literature. Though he works at a different university and has degrees from two others, there’s only one home for him.

“I have many alma maters now, but nothing tops Memphis for me,” Thompson said. “Memphis has never left me and it never will.”

Michelle McKissack and daughter, Bliss

MATTERS Family

By Dr. Sally G. Parish

Associate Vice President for Educational Initiatives

IF IT DOES INDEED TAKE A VILLAGE TO RAISE A CHILD, THE UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS HAS BEEN THAT VILLAGE FOR MANY FAMILIES.

Founded in 1912 as “The Training School” in connection with the West Tennessee State Normal School, the schools we know today as “University Schools” started as classrooms in the administration building. As the University evolved from its training school roots over the past 110 years, much has changed, including the schools’ location and ages served. However, The UofM’s commitment to educating our local children and training future teachers has only strengthened.

With a more than 100-year history, over 50,000 alumni and a long-standing reputation for student success, it is no surprise that family ties within our University Schools run deep. From the tiniest Tigers at the Barbara K. Lipman Early Learning and Research Center to our new faculty, staff and students of University High, the UofM has rounded out its educational compendium to extend from birth to graduation across six schools. The schools’ rich history and deep roots in the Memphis community continues to inform the way in which they serve students and families today, much as they have for the past century.

Michelle McKissack attended Campus Elementary school at the University of Memphis from 1975-81, beginning with her first-grade year. Alongside her five siblings, McKissack took the No. 33 city bus to school each day from her home in Cherokee Heights.

“My time at Campus School was magical,” McKissack said. “It was this wonderful melting pot of an experience.”

McKissack’s recollection of Campus School are filled with teachers such as Susan

VanDyke, memories of performing for the President in the Administration Building and meeting amazing friends like Carolyn, who was the daughter of a University of Memphis visiting professor from England.

“I was introduced to so many types of people and cultures at Campus School … I really believe that laid the foundation for my outlook on life,” said McKissack, who has served as a member of the Memphis Shelby County School Board for four years, including her recent tenure as board chair.

The University Schools fall within McKissack’s district, making her the University’s official school board

member. During her tenure on the board, McKissack was a critical element in the launch and approval of University Middle (opened in Fall 2019) and University High (opened in Fall 2022). In a full-circle moment, McKissack’s daughter, Bliss, is part of University Middle’s sixth-grade class this year.

“It means everything for my daughter to come back to where I started and for her to get a taste of that wonder I experienced when I was attending Campus School,” McKissack said.

Bliss has enjoyed joining the school community her mom helped to cultivate, saying that she is proud of her mother’s leadership and support, and that she is “really glad” to be enrolled at University Middle.

“It means everything for my daughter to come back to where I started and for her to get a taste of that wonder I experienced when I was attending Campus School,” McKissack said.

Bliss will have the opportunity to learn from a number of dynamic educators. Among those is Briana Scott Pittman (BS ’13, MA ’21). Pittman’s career started in a chem-tech lab where a supervisor suggested she would be a good teacher.

“I took a leap,” said Pittman, who is in her sixth year of teaching and her second at University Middle.

For those who know Pittman’s background, the transition into the classroom feels more like destiny than a leap from the lab. Pittman’s mother is Dr. Rebecca Scott (EdD ’16), a longstanding educational figurehead in the Memphis community. Scott’s career as an educator spans more 30 years, with the last 20 spent at Campus School, where she currently serves as director. Her journey with University Schools began two decades ago when she asked her husband to pull into the Campus School parking lot.

“I think that’s a school,” she told him. Indeed, it was, and that school has since been nationally recognized as a Blue Ribbon school under Scott’s leadership.

Pittman remembers the early years at Campus School — living at the UofM for a few months and walking across campus to attend Family Gathering with her mother, where she had a front row seat to witness the community and culture that she helped to develop there.

“I couldn’t believe it,” said Pittman. “I knew when I started teaching I wanted to be at a place like University Schools. If I ever went into education, I knew what kind of educator I wanted to be.

“From Sunday school to elementary school, I admired the relationship my mother had with her students and the amount of pride they have in showing her the life they have now because of the impact she had on their lives then.”

Pittman’s philosophy as an educator, “your personal best will always be enough,” is guided by lessons from her mother, much like many of our University Schools educators who could say the same of Scott’s impact.

“It is not every day you get to work alongside your superhero,” said Pittman.

Scott, also started her career as a math teacher. Since then, she has done a little bit of everything, ranging from

serving as a classroom teacher to her longstanding tenure as the Campus School assistant director. Scott is in her third year of serving as the Campus School director — a role once held by Flora Rawls, who many know as the namesake of Rawls Hall on the UofM campus.

“My daughter was practically raised around Campus School and graduated from the University of Memphis, so I believe that teaching gives her an opportunity to give back to the institution that provided a great foundation for her,” Scott said.

Considering the unique opportunity Campus School has to not only teach children in grades kindergarten through 5, but to also teach future educators as teachers in training, harkening back to the mission of the West Tennessee Normal School, Scott feels strongly that Campus School provides a special service to the campus community.

“Education is the key to success,” Scott shared. “Through education, we have the power to transform lives, break down barriers and provide experiences that shape and mold future generations.”

That transformation happens at Campus School every day under Scott’s leadership and the Campus School experience holds true to McKissack’s days as a student.

“It is a unique place,” Scott said. “We have spent years creating a respectful culture and environment that promotes excellence in teaching and enthusiasm for learning. Teachers and administrators are invested in their students and colleagues; and students have a genuine care and concern for each other. Our community works hard to create an environment where individuality is celebrated.”

Scott affirms that any student whose life has been touched by our schools is always welcome home.

“We are so glad that you went to the Campus School,” Scott said to the alumni. “We are here to celebrate your success. This is a place of love, a place where you are always welcomed and wanted.”

Scott often shares with her Campus School graduates, “once a Tiger, always a Tiger,,” and that rings true for the Fox family. Ben Fox attended Campus School from second to sixth grade in the mid-80s. Some of his most fond memories include PE

demonstrations in the field house with Ms. Coleman, the same PE teacher who would later teach his children, Laurel and Thomas, during their years at Campus School, and who in most recent years has coordinated the school’s onsite COVID testing program, one of the first in the country.

Fox also recalls other Campus School teachers who had an impact on his life, Ms. Branch and Ms. Stokes among them. Fox’s years at Campus School aligned with great success from the Memphis State Tigers basketball program. He remembers when Tiger basketball players would cut through the Campus School playground.

“Our favorite thing to do was to try to get one of them to dunk the basketball on the playground basketball court,” Fox said. “Keith Lee was like a superhero to us, and we got to see him just walking across our playground.”

The Tigers made it to the Final Four in 1985. Decades later, with Memphis Tigers’ fanfare still abounding, Fox gets to appreciate it in a different light as a parent of two University Schools’ students.

“My daughter was practically raised around Campus School and graduated from the University of Memphis, so I believe that teaching gives her an opportunity to give back to the institution that provided a great foundation for her,” Scott said.

hen Fox and his wife, Elizabeth, moved back to Memphis in 2008, they were looking for a future school home and the University drew them back. Their journey as parents began with the Early Learning & Research Center (ELRC), affectionately known to many as “Lipman” in honor of Barbara K. Lipman.

“Lipman is such a special place with a real school community,” Fox said. “We appreciated that the school placed an emphasis on developing our children. If we could have waved a magic wand to design the exact type of pre-school we wanted to be a part of, Lipman was pretty much it.”

Both of Fox’s children have remained in the University Schools system since beginning at the ELRC. Laurel shared that she has enjoyed looking at Dad’s old yearbooks and seeing how much the schools have evolved over time.

“It’s pretty cool to know he went there and now I am going there,” Thomas said.

Laurel attended Campus School from first-fifth grade where her favorite memories included Family Gathering and Spring Fling. she is now a seventh-grade student at University Middle.

“The teachers have lots of personality and are energetic and they make their classes entertaining,” said Laurel, who also enjoys University Middle’s approach to education through project-based learning (PBL), which involves an experiential, hands-on application.

“The PBL projects are like nothing I have ever done before. They are intense and teach us lots of important stuff, but they are also so much fun. They are everyone’s favorite thing about U Middle.”

Thomas is a fourth-grade student at Campus School.

L to R in the photo: Jacqueline Potter Hancock (University High); Dr. Rebecca Scott (Campus School); Briana Scott-Pittman (University Middle).

“I am so glad I go to Campus School,” Thomas said. “Campus School does a good job of making learning fun, and it feels special to be at the University of Memphis.”

Thomas has aspirations of being an engineer who designs video games. He learned about the engineering design process in his third-grade class from his teacher, Ms. Humphrey. Humphrey (BA ’11) attended the University of Memphis herself and was a UofM cheerleader while also pursuing her degree in education.

“As parents, Elizabeth and I really appreciate the opportunity to have our children in diverse, enriched public schools on a college campus,” Fox said. “Having that in Memphis is really special.”

Laurel agrees, “Being on the University of Memphis campus makes us feel special, and different from other schools.”

This fall, as University Schools celebrates its 110th year of teaching and learning, it will also celebrate its first year of realizing its full potential as a PK-12 educational compendium. Nearly 40 years after his own time at Campus School, Fox looks forward to his children’s future with the University of Memphis.

“Like many families, we are incredibly excited for the potential of having

complete pre-school through high school on the University of Memphis campus,” said Fox.

our children

“There aren’t many opportunities to go to school with some of the same people from 2 years old through 12th grade, and we now have that opportunity.”

Did you attend Campus School or any of the UofM’s University Schools? Use this QR Code to submit your University Schools alumni update form.

“I am so glad I go to Campus School,” Thomas said.

“Campus School does a good job of making learning fun, and it feels special to be at the University of Memphis.”

Ben Fox and family

Orgel Educational Center

Orgel Educational Center

BY JOUY THOMAS

Education has always been a cause that is near and dear to the hearts of longtime University of Memphis philanthropists Robin and Billy Orgel. So, when the University approached the couple about supporting another initiative focused on education, they quickly responded with a strong and impressive commitment.

In November 2021, the Orgels committed $1 million to the home of University Middle School and the newly added University High School. In the summer of 2022, what was the Fogelman Executive Center became the Orgel Educational Center. It is home to more than 1,000 students in grades 6-12 on the UofM campus.

“You have to be educated in order to succeed, and you have to be given the chance to succeed,” Robin Orgel said. “I think a good education and the availability of a good education to anyone is very important.”

The Orgels' commitment to enhancing education goes deeper than the philanthropic causes they support. Robin is a former Memphis teacher and Billy served as a Memphis-Shelby County School Board member for more than a decade (2011-22), including time spent as chair. The couple also contributes countless hours of service to local organizations across the region.

“The Orgels have a long-standing commitment to education in the Memphis community, which made them perfect partners for the expansion of the University Schools program into middle and high school,” said Joanna Curtis, vice president for advancement at the UofM. “Our students and their teachers will benefit greatly from having resources to support the updated needs of 21st-century students.”

Billy and Robin wanted to build on the momentum of the experience students receive at the UofM’s Campus School,

a celebrated elementary school with a longtime reputation for excellence, because they believe it contributes to greater outcomes for Memphis students.

“We toured the middle school before we decided to make the gift,” Robin said. “We were both blown away by the students, the teachers and everything that they were doing there was just great. The fact that these students in middle and high school can go be part of a college campus would hopefully make them want to keep going after graduation.”

The Orgels are lifelong Memphians and parents to three adult children. They want to help create the best opportunities for all families and students in Memphis and Shelby County.

“We want Memphis to be a place our children want to choose for their home,” Billy said. “If students can get educated

at the University of Memphis and stay in Memphis to pursue a career, they can do great things for our community.”

The investment made by the Orgels will transform the experience of students at the University Middle and High Schools. Because of their support, every University High School student will have the chance to earn 13-36 hours of college credit.

“Their generosity allows us to remove some of the financial barriers to college access that many students experience across our community and gives students a worldclass college education that begins right here on the University of Memphis campus before they even finish high school,” said Dr. Sally G. Parish, UofM associate vice president for educational initiatives.

The couple hopes that other schools, not just in Shelby County, but across the nation will emulate the University Schools’ model.

“University High is a totally new kind of school where education starts in classrooms, but ultimately ends up in the real world,” Parish said. “By partnering with local and national experts, we’ve envisioned a high school that implements innovative cutting-edge research and infuses it into our curriculum. We will provide a collaborative education with an entrepreneurial focus and an emphasis on dual enrollment and college and career preparation.”

When asked about their legacy as philanthropists, the Orgels said they are fortunate to help others. For them, to whom much is given, much is required.

“It’s not about having your name on something,” Billy said. “It’s about the impact you make and how you affect other people’s lives.”

“If students can get educated at the University of Memphis and stay in Memphis to pursue a career, they can do great things for our community.”

– Billy Orgel

Hobson (Liberal Studies) and Barnett (Sociology) are from Oakland, Tenn., and were among a record 2,713 May graduates.

“It was an exhilarating feeling that took my breath away,” Hobson said of graduating with her daughter. “My spirit was so elated with joy and happiness. I cried tears knowing that my deceased mother would be so proud of her daughter and granddaughter.”

Sharon Hobson, right, and her daughter Taylor Barnett celebrated graduation together at the UofM’s Spring 2022 Commencement.

“It was an exhilarating feeling that took my breath away.”

– Sharon Hobson

YOUR BALANCE KEEPING

Third-year audiology student Carly Halley practices caloric testing, which is commonly performed to test ear-related dizziness. Evaluating dizziness at the Memphis Speech and Hearing Center at the UofM is comprehensive, with the ability to test all inner ear organs related to dizziness and balance. Halley has been accepted for an externship near Washington, D.C., at the Walter Reed Medical Center.

KERRICK JACKSON BECOMES THE FIRST BLACK HEAD COACH FOR UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS BASEBALL

BY TRENT SHADID

‘I just heard the news, and when I heard the news, I had to pull over and shout,’ ” Jackson said. “That’s when it became real.”

Jackson’s voice began to crack, his head dropped and he took a moment to collect himself.

“The fact that we are in 2022 still talking about firsts, and I am that first, it means a lot. I plan to do everything in my power to make sure that we stop talking about firsts and that there are people following in our footsteps, seeing the things we do here and making some powerful things happen.”

One of Jackson’s two sons, 11-year-old Zion, approached the podium and handed his dad a towel. He removed his glasses and wiped away the tears building in his eyes.

Through all the talk about Jackson’s impressive resume and the potential of

the program, this was the moment on Wednesday afternoon that displayed the significance of his hiring.

Excluding the Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Jackson becomes one of only three current Black head coaches in Division I baseball, joining Georgetown’s Edwin Thompson and Presbyterian’s Elton Pollock.

“We are going to be the mecca of developing young minority coaches and creating more opportunities for minority players beginning at the youth level,” Jackson said. “When you are in a community that is a 65% Black, the opportunity to grow the game is going to start here at the University of Memphis, on our field. Once people see the impact we are going to have, it will have an effect on other communities believing they can do the same thing. We will have the outreach that will help them get those things accomplished as well.”

It is hard to find a coach, in any sport, with a more diverse set of skills and experience than Jackson. He is a well-respected leader, recruiter, talent evaluator, player developer and baseball visionary.

Jackson was president of the MLB Draft League, a collegiate summer baseball league created to showcase players ahead of the MLB draft, before joining the Tiger Family. He has been a head coach at the Division I level, an assistant coach in two Power Five conferences, a certified player agent tasked with spotting top talent and a scouting supervisor for a Major League franchise.

“We truly could not have found someone who is more qualified than Kerrick,” said Laird Veatch, UofM vice president and director of intercollegiate athletics. “More importantly, he is a great person of high character. Everyone we talked to throughout this process raved about him for the type of coach, person and leader that he is.”

As an assistant and recruiting coordinator at Missouri, Jackson played a seminal role in several highly ranked recruiting classes, including the No. 12-ranked class in 2014. He helped the program win the Big 12 championship in 2012 and make the transition to the Southeastern Conference the following season.

Jackson has also succeeded at other collegiate stops with far fewer resources. He has been an assistant at Fairfield, Nicholls

State, Emporia State, Jefferson College, Coffeyville Community College and St. Louis Community College-Meramec.

In his first experience as a Division I head coach at Southern University, Jackson engineered the largest turnaround in the nation in 2019 when he led the Jaguars from nine wins the previous season to 32 victories and the Southwestern Athletic Conference championship. The SWAC title earned the program its first NCAA Tournament appearance in 10 years, and Jackson was named SWAC and Louisiana Sports Writers Association Coach of the Year.

“I have been at places where we had much, much less than what we have (at Memphis),” Jackson said. “I’ve been places where we didn’t have tees or a cage to hit in. I told my players then and I will tell my players now, none of that matters. Nobody wants to hear excuses. Either you get it done or you don’t, and this program is going to be about getting it done.”

As Veatch and UofM Blair DeBord, associate athletic director for development, led the search for the Tigers’ next head coach, Jackson became an undeniable option. The many conversations with trusted outside consultants seemed to lead back to one candidate.

“Every baseball person we spoke with, regardless of their circle or coaching tree, knew of Kerrick and would normally respond with something similar to, ‘Kerrick Jackson would be a great fit for Memphis,’ ” said DeBord, a former All-Big 12 catcher at Kansas State. “Kerrick went from being ‘a candidate’ to ‘the candidate’ fairly quickly.”

Veatch was sold on Jackson early in the process. His decision-making process in hiring a coach centers around one question — “would I want to play for him or her?” Veatch is adept at identifying those qualities, having played linebacker for former Kansas State coach Bill Snyder, one of the most respected and successful coaches in college football history.

“There’s no question walking away from our first interaction that Kerrick is someone I would want to play for,” Veatch said. “Another way I would put it is we want that coach who can balance the challenge of love and discipline that our student-athletes need today. He has that ability.”

By the time UofM leadership identified Jackson as its top choice, he had already long been sold on Memphis. He had seen the Bluff City’s baseball talent through his years as a scout, recruiter and opposing coach.

In 2019, the Tigers hosted Jackson’s Southern team for a three-game series. He told his wife, Talia, of the tremendous potential he saw in the UofM program following that trip.

“This program, this community and everything that you all are about is also what I’m about,” Jackson said.

“For me, that makes this is a very unique opportunity different than any other in the country. I am coming here with the intention of making this place a powerhouse. I plan on us being one of the top 50 programs in the country year in and year out.”

The appeal of Memphis and the University stretched beyond the baseball field. During the interview process, Jackson recognized Diverse Magazine had ranked the UofM among the top 12 universities nationally in graduating African American students.

“That’s a big deal,” Jackson said. “Those types of things attracted me to this position.”

Jackson’s historic hiring comes as the UofM and its supporters are investing in the future of its baseball program. A $1.5 million gift from businessman, philanthropist and lifelong baseball enthusiast Avron Fogelman will support extensive renovations to the Tigers’ home stadium — FedExPark Avron Fogelman Field.

“We are so fortunate to have found a coach like Kerrick to lead our program,” DeBord said. “He is the perfect fit at the perfect time. He is going to build a winner here and people in college baseball will take notice.”

I am coming here with the intention of making this place a powerhouse.

I plan on us being one of the top 50 programs in the country year in and year out.”

ON SATURDAY NIGHT, SEPT. 21, 1963, WHEN THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI FOOTBALL TEAM CAME TO MEMPHIS TO PLAY THE TIGERS, NO SEAT WAS LEFT UNSOLD INSIDE OLD CRUMP STADIUM. A CAPACITY CROWD OF 31,650 WOULD ATTEND, AND MANY OTHER DIEHARDS WERE TURNED AWAY.

UNDEFEATED THE

BY DON WADE

“Hundreds of last-ditch hopefuls still clustered outside the gates hoping for a reprieve from the vigilant guards,” read one newspaper account. “A reporter driving into the stadium was offered $3.45 — ‘All I have’ — by a young man who wanted to hide in the trunk of his automobile.”

Ole Miss had defeated Memphis State in the first 17 games of the series and had not been shut out in its previous 47 games overall, a remarkable accomplishment in an era when low-scoring, defensive battles were common.

On this night, both streaks ended. The Tigers played the Rebels to a 0-0 tie. It proved to be the Tigers’ closest call in their first undefeated season since 1938 and only one since.

It Didn’t Feel Like A Tie

Ole Miss entered the game carrying a No. 2 national ranking. The previous season coach Johnny Vaught’s team had gone 10-0 and won the Southeastern Conference and the Sugar Bowl.

Come game time, none of that would matter.

The Memphis State defense was impenetrable – allowing just 57 yards rushing, making a heroic goal line stand and intercepting three passes. Hiding in the trunk of a car lined up in the Ole Miss backfield was about the only way anyone was going to crash Memphis State’s end zone.

MSU player ever to lead the nation in a major statistical category, was stopped just inches from a touchdown in the first quarter. The Tigers’ Billy Fletcher had a 32-yard field goal attempt in the fourth quarter that fell short.

“At the time, and maybe it was just in my mind, I felt like we were dominating the game,” Memphis State lineman Wiley Patterson said, recalling the game 59 years later. “I remember saying I was sorry the game ended so soon because I felt like we could have won it.”

Sportswriters of the day passed their own judgments.

“Somebody racked me up,” Ole Miss running back Buck Randall would say of his own failed goal-line carry.

That somebody, no doubt, was No. 75, John Fred Robilio, who made several key tackles around the goal line and earned National Player of the Week honors.

As Chuck Brooks, a Tigers All-American, later said: “Hitting people was fun.”

Of course, Ole Miss did some hitting of its own. Memphis running back Dave Casinelli, who won the NCAA rushing title that season to become the first

“Memphis State youngsters came off the field chattering to each other, exchanging congratulations,” wrote the Commercial Appeal’s David Bloom. “If nobody else regarded this feat as a victory, it’s a cinch they did — and should.”

Boys Will Be Boys

Tigers coach Billy “Spook” Murphy had huge hopes for junior lineman Bob Finamore, but Finamore never played a down in 1963. While Brooks, Casinelli, Harry Schuh and Russell Vollmer were the team’s stars, Finamore didn’t even get to put his hand in the dirt.

At the time, and maybe it was just in my mind, I felt like we were dominating the game.

Memphis State lineman Wiley Patterson

JohnFredRobilio

Dave Casinelli

He broke his ankle just weeks before the season started.

“I was depressed, especially when they traveled,” said Finamore. “I was back in the school’s empty dormitory, getting around on my crutches, just trying to survive.”

Herb Cummings, who backed up Cronin, said: “He was a strong sucker, but he had a temper and would get kicked out of games, and I’d get to play.”

Depth and versatility mattered. Also, substitution rules were restrictive.

“We played both ways,” Quast said. “If we lost the ball, we’d play defense until the coach could send in the defensive unit.”

You could hear the helmets cracking each other.

Memphis State lineman Wiley Patterson

Murphy and his staff were renowned for their recruiting and preparation. Players came from near and far — from the Northeast to the Midwest to the Deep South.

Chicago alone gave the Tigers the likes of tackle Dick Quast, back Bob Sherlag and center John Cronin.

They did whatever they had to do. And, well, a few things they didn’t have to do.

Sherlag, on the occasion of the team’s 50-year reunion in 2013, recalled that guys would employ lit cigarettes to ignite cherry bombs in dorm trash cans.

“Nobody got hurt,” he said. “But you couldn’t hear too well for a while.”

Meanwhile, on the field, the Tigers let the college football world know who they were by blasting opponents.

“You could hear the helmets cracking each other,” Patterson said.

Said Quast: “We had some nasty people on that team.”

‘Put A Sponge On It’

On Oct. 26, 1963, at Crump Stadium against Mississippi State, quarterback Russ Vollmer — Mr. Do Everything — made his legend.

He took the opening kickoff 78 yards to set up the Tigers’ first score. Then, in the second quarter, he was returning a punt when he cut toward the sideline on the south side of the field and was, as one sports scribe put it, knocked into the “top step of the deep, black hole that leads to the dressing room tunnel.”

Vollmer landed on his back. The Tigers, trailing 10-9 at halftime, looked to be in a dire situation when Vollmer went to the emergency room of nearby Methodist Hospital for X-rays (they were negative).

Russ’s brother Richard accompanied him to the hospital, and, as the story goes, heard the Tigers’ quarterback proclaim,

Russell Vollmer

“I don’t give a damn if it is hurt! Let’s put a sponge on it and it will be all right.”

When Vollmer returned to Crump, the third quarter already underway, the crowd cheered at the sight of him. Suddenly, the mood shifted.

“It was like everybody said, ‘We’re gonna win now. Russ is back!’ ” Quast said. “It was a charge.”

Vollmer made good on those hopes by leading the Tigers on a 70-yard gamewinning drive in the fourth quarter, Memphis State prevailing 17-10.

Postgame, everyone was still talking about the play that sent Vollmer to the hospital and whether the defensive players had taken a cheap shot.

Mississippi State coach Paul Davis said no, adding, “He was right on the sideline when our boys hit him. Vollmer’s own momentum carried him over the wire.”

Whatever the facts, officials penalized the defense 15 yards. Vollmer only learned of this later.

“That’s good …” he told reporters, adding that he was a step out of bounds when he got hit and “flew through the air.”

The Season Lives On

Memphis State finished with a 9-0-1 record and landed at No. 14 in the UPI Coaches Poll, still the highest final ranking in school history.

But there would be no bowl game. Anticipating an invitation from the more prestigious Gator Bowl, the team voted to turn down the invitation in hand from the Sun Bowl. The Gator Bowl bid never came.

“We could have beaten anybody in the country,” Quast said. “I was sure of that.”

As it was, they had managed to go undefeated against every team that stood before them. Six decades removed from that wondrous year, the men still alive today who helped make it happen say in some ways the season never ended.

Quast, who went into manufacturing and became a vice president, and who had two sons play linebacker at the University of Iowa, said that 1963 “prepared me for the rest of my life.”

Finamore, who for many years was a high school football assistant coach in New Jersey with several state titles on his resume, made much use of what he learned from Murphy and the Tigers staff.

“On offense, we ran all the Memphis State plays, the Wing-T,” Finamore said of his time as a coach.

Cummings recalled the resolve they had even as Vollmer was in a hospital ER and the score tilted in their opponents’ favor.

“We never had a defeatist attitude,” he said. “Murphy never allowed that.”

Added Quast: “Everybody covered everybody. Everybody worked together.”

It was, if not a perfect season, the next best thing, and one to be forever remembered.

“It’s a record that we have and I’m very, very proud of,” Quast said. “I’ve got a special place in my heart for that year.”

HarrySchuh

FUTURE FUTURE

As the landscape of college football continues to change rapidly, the University of Memphis and its City are evolving to solidify the Tigers’ place among the nation’s top programs.

Together, the UofM and the City of Memphis have announced the pursuit of a $150-$200 million renovation to Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. The substantial investment will revitalize and modernize the historic stadium while keeping the Tigers in their home of nearly 60 years.

“We started this process with a very specific set of goals in mind, and this project will hit them all,” said Laird Veatch, UofM vice president and director of intercollegiate athletics.

“Most importantly, it will position us for any potential conference realignment opportunities in the near future and cement our place in the highest level of college football.”

The vision for revamping the stadium includes a complete transformation of the west side to include all the modern amenities with several premium seating options. Other seating plans include a student party deck in the south end and, as funding allows, family boxes in the north end and a retrofit of the east side suite tower.

Renovations to the current concourse are also planned with updated concessions and restrooms. This will include an expansion of the exterior halo surrounding the stadium to better utilize what is currently empty space. The idea is to create a “party in the halo,” according to Veatch, with food trucks, tailgate tents, concert stages and more.

The University and City have worked closely with architecture firm Populous to develop an innovative redesign that meets the current and future needs of the football program. Previous Populous projects have included renovations to Texas A&M football’s Kyle Field and new stadiums for Major League Baseball’s Atlanta Braves, Minnesota Twins, New York Mets and New York Yankees.

The target goal is to have the project completed in time for the 2025 season with construction beginning following the 2023 season. The Tigers will continue to play at the stadium while construction is ongoing.

In the 12-18 months following the May 2022 renovation announcement, the University and City are working to establish a funding plan that includes public and private support while completing the design and

Laird Veatch UofM vice president and

construction bid process. Securing the lead gifts needed to make the renovation possible will be essential to maintaining the current timeline for completion.

“This will be an investment in the University and City for generations to come,” Veatch said. “To accomplish a project of this magnitude, we are going to need everybody that deeply cares about Memphis and the University to come together to help make it happen. Together, we will take this stadium from vision to reality.”

With conference realignment opportunities serving as the driving force, UofM leadership recognized a vastly improved home stadium as a necessity for competing at the highest level. The potential options were not limited to a renovation of Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. For several months, University leadership also seriously explored building an on-campus stadium.

After deliberately analyzing all possibilities, the UofM, with full agreement and support from City officials, determined a comprehensive renovation of Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium would be the best path forward for the University and the community.

This will be an investment in the University and City for generations to come.

director of intercollegiate athletics.

“We are excited to partner with the City to pursue this vision,” Veatch said. “It will optimize our competitive position and it will do so in a much more manageable and efficient time frame. Simply, it is the best value in both time and money.

“There are no guarantees, we know that. But what this does do is put us in a position where we are truly competitive. We have seen all the stadiums in the Big 12 and major conferences across the country. This is the kind of stadium that looks like it belongs in that club. I can tell you if we don’t do this, it will hurt our chances.”

Remaining committed to the current, City of Memphis-owned stadium further strengthens the partnership between the UofM and its City. It also adds an attractive element to the construction of Liberty Park — an expansive mixed-use redevelopment surrounding the stadium that is expected to complete its first phase this fall.

Together, Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium and Liberty Park will create a stadium district that includes a youth sports facility, entertainment venues, dining, retail, office space, two hotels and 150 apartments.

“Now is a time of historic public and private reinvestment in our city,” City of Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland said. “Whether through private developments or city-wide public projects, billions of dollars are helping to bring new life and new energy to Memphis. This significant investment in the stadium will be a tremendous compliment to the 227,000-square-foot youth sports complex just across the street on Early Maxwell, as well as the overall transformative Liberty Park development.”

PRESIDENT'S PERSPECTIVE

“To be a major university in today’s environment, you have to provide the overall student experience. That’s athletics, academics and research. I think our University has advanced signicantly over the past several years. Our recent Carnegie R1 classication is a testament to where we have improved in academics and research. To be a major player in athletics, we have to have great athletes, coaches and facilities. When we looked at that portfolio, one thing that was missing was a world-class football stadium. I’m absolutely behind this. It is needed and will position us to be among the best in the country.” — Bill Hardgrave

STEPHANIE VANBRAKLE PROTHRO PROTHRO

or the first time in 11 years, the University of Memphis will have a new head coach leading its softball program into the 2023 season with the hiring of Stephanie VanBrakle Prothro in August. Prothro arrived at the UofM after spending the previous 11 seasons as the pitching coach at the University of Alabama. The Crimson Tide won the 2012 NCAA Championship, three regular-season SEC titles and two SEC Tournament titles during Prothro’s tenure as pitching coach. The program also made 10 NCAA Regionals, nine NCAA Super Regionals and six Women's College World Series appearances.

“First, I want to thank University of Alabama president Dr. Stuart Bell, athletics director Greg Byrne and head coach Patrick Murphy for everything during my 11 years as an assistant coach with the Crimson Tide,” Prothro said. “Coach Murphy gave me an opportunity to grow and develop into the coach I am today, and I will always be grateful for the opportunity to coach at my alma mater.

“I would also like to thank University of Memphis president Dr. Bill Hardgrave, athletics director Laird Veatch and executive associate athletic director and senior women’s administrator Lauren Ashman for the opportunity to lead the Memphis softball program. In discussing our vision for the future of the athletic department and the softball program throughout the interview process, there is a clear passion and enthusiasm that we all share. I can't wait to get to work building towards that vision.”

Under Prothro’s guidance, Alabama pitchers earned All-America honors nine times and Southeastern Conference Pitcher of the Year three times. In 2021, Crimson Tide ace Montana Fouts was named National Pitcher of the Year after leading the NCAA with 349 strikeouts.

“We are extremely excited to announce coach Prothro as the next leader of our softball program," Veatch said.

“Not only have we found someone who clearly knows what winning looks like, but Stephanie also has a proven expertise in the critical area of pitching.

“

PROTHRO PROTHRO

She has demonstrated a sincere care for her players and knows the type of quality culture she wants to establish here at Memphis.”

Prothro was a right-handed pitcher at Alabama, where she was a two-time All-American. As a senior in 2006, she was the SEC Pitcher of the Year and a finalist for the Collegiate Player of the Year. She served as a student assistant for the Crimson Tide in 2007.

Prothro’s first head coaching experience came at BirminghamSouthern College. She guided the Panthers for two seasons, which included a program-best 32-5 record in 2009. Prior to rejoining her alma mater as pitching coach, Prothro spent one season as head coach at Samford.

“I am excited to set a standard of excellence that will build a culture of champions on and off the field,” Prothro said. “It is a great day to be a Memphis Tiger!”

UofM Alumni Spotlight

Dr. Sarah Petschonek

By Jeff Hulett

In 11 years as a University of Memphis student, Dr. Sarah Petschonek earned a remarkable four degrees. The UofM’s “super” alumna founded Volunteer Odyssey, an enterprise focused on innovation in volunteerism, two years after taking her nal classes at the University.

Petschonek has served as president and CEO of Volunteer Odyssey since its creation in 2013. During that time, Volunteer Odyssey has placed more than 23,000 people in meaningful volunteer opportunities with a total of 367,000 hours of service.

This equates to an economic impact of more than $9 million while working with nonprots of all sizes, including the UofM.

Through an exclusive partnership, Volunteer Odyssey provides service and volunteer opportunities for UofM students. More than 6,700 UofM students have been placed with volunteer opportunities through the partnership, totaling an estimated 90,000 hours of service and an economic impact of $2.5 million.

Lifelong learner and entrepreneur Dr. Sarah Petschonek uses her UofM education to innovate in the nonprofit space with Volunteer Odyssey

Q A&

A: My time at the UofM was invaluable — it taught me problem solving, process improvement and business skills that have shaped Volunteer Odyssey and our impact on the community.

A: I attended University of Memphis from 2000-11. I graduated in 2004 with a BA in psychology, in 2007 with an MS in psychology and twice in 2011 with an MBA and PhD in psychology. Now that I say that out loud, I wonder if 11 years earns me the title of longest consecutive full-time student!

A : I was captivated by the intersection of these two disciplines and how I could combine them to improve our community. This interdisciplinary approach gave me the tools I needed to build a social enterprise where I could make a living by doing good, while also creating Memphisbased jobs for others to do the same. This intersection has helped Volunteer Odyssey launch an innovative approach to volunteer engagement. We’ve used virtual reality, interactive art and creative marketing to spark conversations about the critical shortage of volunteers.

The UofM was also where I found tremendous growth. My fear of public speaking caused me to delay my oral communications class until my very last semester. Fast forward just a few years and I was giving a TEDx talk on campus at the Rose Theater. That was a surreal, full-circle moment and a testament to how much you can achieve when you’re proactive in your learning.

My ongoing connection to the UofM helps me continually improve everything we do. And, fun fact, I still get emails from all over the world requesting to use a survey tool from my dissertation.

A: First and foremost, Volunteer Odyssey is the exclusive service partner for the UofM. This means that we coordinate all volunteer opportunities for UofM students. That is a true honor. We also hire interns and speak in many classes and conferences on campus. In fact, many of our staff and board members are either UofM students or alumni. I also represent Memphis with my favorite Tigers hat whenever I travel locally or abroad. It’s exciting to meet Memphis fans from all over the world.

A: Some of my favorite early memories include moving into the dorm freshman year, volunteering with Ronald McDonald House and, of course, having the opportunity to be Pouncer, our UofM mascot.

My most powerful experience was the comradery with my fellow graduate students in the Industrial Organizational Psychology program as we celebrated milestones, represented the UofM at conferences on the national stage and all had great jobs lined up as we approached graduation.

To learn more about the work and mission of Volunteer Odyssey or to start your volunteer journey, visit their website at volunteerodyssey.com .

Q: When did you attend and graduate from the UofM?

Q: Why did you choose to study psychology and business?

Q: What are some of your favorite memories from your time as a student?

Q: How did your time at the UofM inform your career?

Q: How do you stay involved with the UofM now?

DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI ALUMNI Awards

FFOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE 2019, THE DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARDS RETURNED TO THE UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS CAMPUS IN JUNE 2022. The 14th year of the signature event honoring distinguished, outstanding young and honorary alumni saw more than 300 people gather in the Maxine A. Smith University Center to celebrate eight honorees. The event raised $176,000, which was designated for scholarships.

DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI

Uof M ILLUSTRIOUS SERVICE AWARD

HONEY & RUDI SCHEIDT COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD

Jim Strickland (BBS ’86, JD ’89), City of Memphis Mayor Scott Forman (BBA ’98), Keeper of TOM III

DISTINGUISHED

FRIEND

Beverly Robertson (BSEd ’73), Chief Operating Ocer and Principal of Trust Marketing & Communications, Inc.

George Johnson (BBA ’70), President of BJB Administrative Services

Luther C. McClellan (BS ’62), Memphis State Eight member and retired Program Director of the Federal Aviation Administration

Monique McClain (BA ’11, MBA ’17), Director of Business Strategy at Microsoft

Tammy Hedges, UofM Executive Vice President for University Relations

George Johnson

Monique McClain

Tammy Hedges

Scott Forman

Haizlip Studio

Beverly Robertson

Luther C. McClellan

Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland

FIRST-TIME

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

KIARA MOORER

Kiara Moorer graduated from the University of Memphis in May 2022 with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Moorer was selected to join the United States Navy Nuclear Propulsion Program, becoming the rst African American UofM graduate to join the program. A member of the UofM Naval ROTC during her time as a student, Moorer is stationed in Charleston, South Carolina.

JESSICA WARREN

Jessica Warren is the UofM’s rst Bachelor of Science in Public Health graduate. After graduating in August 2022, Warren began working at Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare as an oe coordinator. A native Memphian with a passion for giving back to her community, her ultimate goal is to address food insecurity in the South Memphis neighborhood where she was born and raised.

APRIL 22

The Harwood Center at the UofM, an early learning classroom for children ages 2-6 with special needs, holds its grand opening on the Park Avenue Campus.

Tiger football quarterback Seth Henigan signs an autograph for a fan following the Friday Night Stripes Spring Game.

APRIL 30

University

MAY 4

Dr. Lan Wang receives the 2022 Willard R. Sparks Eminent Faculty Award. Wang, pictured with UofM President Bill Hardgrave (left) and Board of Visitors Chair Laurie Tucker (right), is a full professor and chair of the Department of Computer Science.

of Memphis Lambuth graduates celebrate baccalaureate on their historic campus in Jackson, Tennessee.

MAY 5

His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, of Ghana visits the UofM as part of the Memphis in May International Festival’s salute to the Republic of Ghana.

AUG. 9

Students enjoy activities during Frosh Camp at the NaCoMe Camp & Retreat Center in Pleasantville, Tennessee.

AUG. 19

The

Memphis football team, including wide receiver Koby Drake (pictured), visits Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital.

AUG. 19

New UofM students participate in the Frosh Frenzy pep rally to learn cheers, chants and traditions and engage with the band, athletics teams and spirit squads.

SEPT. 20

UofM men’s soccer forward Lineker Rodrigues dos Santos celebrates after scoring the nal goal in a 6-4 victory over Central Arkansas. The Tigers rallied from a 4-1 decit to win.

UofM women's basketball senior Lanetta Williams is introduced at the Memphis Basketball Block Party to celebrate the beginning of the 2022-23 season.

CLASS N OTES

'70s

Dr. Maria A. Holmes (BA ’75) retired as associate dean of the Elliott T. Bowers Honors College at Sam Houston State University after serving the college for 19 years in various roles. She is also a past president of The Woodlands Arts Council.

Frank R. Holmes (BA ’75) retired from Sam Houston State University after serving as vice president for university advancement for more than 19 years. In recognition of his service, the Texas State University System Regents recognized him as Vice President Emeritus.

Wayne Chavis Shelton

(JD ’73) retired as Montgomery County General Sessions & Juvenile Court Judge after 43 years in the judiciary. He was the longest serving judge in Tennessee at the time he announced his retirement in June 2022.

assigned as a project leader in Memphis. Among her duties, she is responsible for developing and implementing a new digital access and broadband literacy training program for seniors through her host organization, Innovate Memphis.

Joseph C. Murphy Jr. (JD ’84) was sworn in as the temporary United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee. Murphy has served as an assistant United States attorney, a criminal chief and the chief of Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force.

David A. Pickler (JD ’85) is president and CEO of Pickler Wealth Advisors in Collierville, Tenn., which was named to the Invest in Others Charitable Foundation’s 2022 Charitable Champions List. The list recognizes companies that give back to their communities and promote a culture of philanthropy in their organizations.

Phillip Tutor (BA ’89) has joined the University of West Alabama's Office of Stategic Communications as a news journalist.

Memphis, was awarded $1,000 for her classroom, student resources and projects from the AutoZone Liberty Bowl and the College Football Playoff oundation as part of the Extra Yard for Teachers Week.

Dr. Bill Murray (BA ’97) was the featured preacher on Day 1, a nationally broadcast ecumenical radio program, in April. Murray is the rector of Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church in Atlanta.

Dorchelle

director in February 2022. Prior to joining THRC, Nolen served as Shelby County assistant district attorney general.

Frank Robertson (BBA ’04, MPA ’06) was promoted to vice president, business banking relationship manager at First Horizon Bank. Robertson joined First Horizon in 2009 and most recently served as a commercial portfolio manager.

& Social Sciences at Louisiana State University. Cruzado is a Peruvian anthropological archaeologist.

Breanne Hager (MFA ’19) was named a Peer Power program director at Kingsbury High School.

'80s

Sudhir K. Agrawal (BBA ’88) was named a Best-In-State Wealth Advisor for 2022 by Forbes. Agrawal is a private wealth and business advisor at Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. He is also a member of the University of Memphis Foundation Board of Directors.

Kathy Lofton (BBA ’89) was named a fellow for the American Connection Corps with Lead for America, the nation's largest fellowship program focused on bridging the digital divide. In partnership with Land O'Lakes, Microsoft and other members of The American Connection Project, Lofton is

Tutor, a member of the UofM's Journalism Alumni Club board of directors, spent the last 32 years at The Anniston (Ala.) Star, where he most recently served as the newspaper's editorial page editor and metro columnist. He's currently writing a book on the Anniston Rams baseball team.

'90s

Spence

(BS ’94, MBA ’12) released her new book, “Into the Clouds,” in August. The book is a memoir of survival incorporating faith, friends and finesse. Spence was the 2021 recipient of the University of Memphis Journalism and New Media Alumni Association’s Charles Thornton Award for Alumni of the Year.

'00s

Teresa Dickerson (BA ’00) was named the company spokesperson for Kroger’s Houston Division. Dickerson, who has more than 20 years of experience in communications, public relations and community marketing, previously held the same position in Kroger’s Memphis Division.

Lisa Gill (BPS ’06, JD ’09), founder of Gill Family Law, was inducted as a fellow into the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers in June 2022.

Kenneth Siegfried (BEd ’03, EdD ’19) was named the director of athletics at the University of Evansville. Siegried had previously been the director of athletics and associate vice president for student affairs at California State University Bakersfield. He also spent eight years in the UofM athletic department.

Christopher Vescovo (JD ’09) was named managing shareholder of Lewis Thomason’s Memphis offic. Vescovo joined the firm more than three decades ago. He has continued to practice business litigation, health care litigation, tort liability and municipal law in addition to the leadership role within the Memphis offic.

Brad Hightower (MBA ’12) was promoted to vice president, commercial banking relationship manager at First Horizon Bank. Hightower joined First Horizon in 2011 and more recently served as business banking relationship manager.

Tori Kelley (BFA ’18) joined Renaissance Group Inc. as an architectural associate. Kelley assists in many of the design phases while working with inhouse team members and consultants.

Marlon Ross (BPS ’14) was named a Peer Power program director at Melrose High School.

'20s

Shelly H. Baker (BBA ’91) joined Waddell & Associates as a wealth strategist. A lifetime Memphian, Baker has more than 31 years of experience in financial services.

Jawanna Franklin (BA ’99), a teacher at Ridgeway High School in

Chao Lin (BA ’09), SVP at the Bank of Bartlett, was named to the Memphis Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2022.

Muriel Nolen (JD ’02) was named executive director of the Tennessee Human Rights Commission (THRC). Nolen joined THRC in April 2021 as the agency’s Deputy Director and was named interim executive

'10s

Dr. Sara Benson (MS ’16, PhD ’19) was promoted to learning lead at Peer Power. She has held several positions with Peer Power since joining the foundation in 2015.

Allison Bosse (MHA ’16) was named CEO of Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women and the Spence and Becky Wilson Baptist Children’s Hospital. Bosse first joined Baptist Memorial Health Care Corp. in 2014 while enrolled at the UofM.

Dr. Elizabeth Cruzado (MA ’16) received the Josephine A. Roberts Alumni Association Distinguished Dissertation Award in Arts, Humanities

Kali Dunn (BSE ’21) joined Renaissance Group Inc. as a design engineer in the civil engineering department. Dunn’s primary duties include civil design on various site and subdivision projects.

Jimmie Johnson III (BPS ’21) was promoted to lieutenant colonel by the Tennessee Highway Patrol. Johnson oversees the agency’s Field Operations Bureau.

Dr. Jacqueline Stephen (EdD ’20) received a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program award to Azerbaijan. Stephen is an assistant professor of instructional design and director of the Office of Distance Learning at Mercer University.

Memphis State Eight

Sitting, left to right: Bertha Rogers Looney, Rose Blakney Love, Marvis Kneeland Jones, Sammie Burnett Johnson. Standing, left to right: John Simpson, Eleanor Gandy, Ralph Prater and Luther C. McClellan.

REMEMBERING Ralph Prater

Memphis State Eight Member Dec. 17,

1940-Aug. 7, 2022

The University of Memphis is deeply saddened by the passing of Ralph Prater, who was among the first group of African American students to enroll at the University in 1959 as a member of the Memphis State Eight. A beloved member of the Tiger Family, Prater's impact on our institution and community is immeasurable. His remarkable courage and legacy will be forever celebrated on our campus as he continues to serve as an inspiration to future generations.

In Memoriam

Alumni (listed alphabetically by decades)

1950s

James G. Barber ’55, May ’22

Charles P. Brown ’58, ’64, May ’22

Billy J. Doyle ’57, Aug. ’22

Barbara K. Duvall ’58, March ’22

Mary F. Flake ’57, Sept. ’22

James A. Ganong Jr. ’53, ’56, April ’22

Beverly B. Herriman ’56, June ’22

Clarence G. Johnson Jr. ’52, June ’22

Charlene M. Kalb ’56, Aug. ’22

Larry N. Killough ’55, Jan. ’22

George S. Knapp III ’58, Sept. ’22

Leslie M. Landau ’59, Feb. ’22

Roy C. Laughlin ’58, June ’22

1960s-70s

Essie J. Anthony ’68, Sept. ’22

Melba L. Bailey ’72, Sept. ’22

Benjamin J. Barnes ’61, June ’22

Joe W. Beal ’77, Aug. ’22

James L. Black ’71, Sept. ’22

Leslie A. Boyd ’73, Sept. ’22

Janet J. Brooks ’72, Aug. ’22

Susan F. Coates ’69, July ’22

Charles E. Coleman ’63, July ’22

Larry J. Cook ’65, Aug. ’22

Frank B. Craige ’69, June ’22

Billie A. Cunningham ’69, July ’22

Dr. William R. Daniel ’65, June ’22

Celinda M. Devish ’79, May ’22

William B. Dodson ’70, June ’22

William D. Edgeworth ’73, Aug. ’22

Linda N. Estile ’68, Sept. ’22

James F. Faust ’65, Sept. ’22

William S. Farmer ’66, Sept. ’22

David E. Ferguson ’74, Aug. ’22

William C. Gamble ’70, Sept. ’22

David L. George ’75, June ’22

Robert G. Gladney Jr. ’69, April ’22

George E. Hargraves ’76, June ’22

Bruce K. Harpel ’69, March ’22

James W. Hawkins ’69, Aug. ’22

Cassandra E. Henson ’74, Feb. ’22

Thomas J. Hilligan ’70, Aug. ’22

June D. Holloway ’72, July ’22

Grady W. Horton ’60, Aug. ’22

Lennie L. Hughes Sr. ’74, Aug. ’22

Jerome M. Kaplan ’62, Aug. ’22

Dan C. McBeth ’78, April ’22

William S. McDill ’60, Aug. ’22

Dwain E. Midget ’76, Aug. ’22

Danny J. Minnick ’77, Aug. ’22

James B. Mobrak III ’77, Aug. ’22

John G. Montague Sr. ’62, ’67, July ’22

Burruss Nichols ’68, May ’22

Stephen O. Nunn ’76, Aug. ’22

Bobbie C. Patterson ’61, Aug. ’22

Charles H. Patton ’75, ’79, March ’22

John G. Payne ’72, May ’22

Paul A. Payne ’68, March ’22

Kenneth W. Perkins ’74, June ’22

Lana K. Prescott ’76, May ’22

Dora C. Purdy ’77, June ’22

Helen R. Robinson ’68, July ’22

Sandra B. Roddy ’71, ’74, May ’22

Richard G. Rogers ’64, Aug. ’22

Margaret G. Ryan ’76, May ’22

Ronald P. Saw ’73, June ’22

Donna S. Shannon ’68, ’70 July ’22

Grace Elizabeth Spillman ’69, June ’22

Robert P. Stovall Jr. ’72, Sept. ’22

Imogene A. Sullivan ’72, March ’22

Paul S. Tashie ’67, Sept. ’22

Jo A. Walk ’62, Aug. ’22

Catharine P. White ’85, Sept. ’22

Ronald W. Wimmer ’69, Aug. ’22

Robert E. Yancey ’62, ’67, June ’22

Wayne E. Yates ’70, Aug. ’22

1980s-90s

John T. Babb ’93, June ’22

Michael J. Bates ’97, July ’22

Crystal M. Brent ’80, Aug. ’22

Brian L. Carter ’92, Sept. ’22

Dr. Karen E. Chancellor ’80, Sept. ’21

William L. Cheairs ’82, July ’22

James T. Coe ’85, Aug. ’22

Autura Eason-Williams ’94, July ’22

Rebecca C. Feaster ’80, ’83, Aug. ’22

Sheila S. Gourlay ’87, Aug. ’22

Janice R. Greer ’98, Sept. ’22

Tim T. Griffin ’81, July ’

Dr. John A. Hicks ’82, Sept. ’22

James C. Long ’95, July ’22

Jean G. Moss ’85, March ’22

Gregory E. Powell ’89, April ’22

Kara E. Price ’97, June ’22

H. Stephen Rosen ’82, Aug. ’22

Susan B. Russell ’84, July ’22

James M. Stegall ’98, July ’22

William S. Sutherland ’82, June ’22

Sandra L. Trammell ’86, ’88 May ’22

Ronald E. Walker ’92, Sept. ’22

Shirley R. Yancey ’80, Aug. ’22

2000-20s

Kelly L. Adams ’06, Sept. ’22

Robert L. Algee ’06, July ’22

Roger M. Leake II ’12, July ’22

Meagan B. Lissner ’15, July ’22

Mia Madison ’09, ’12, July ’22

Benjamin S. McKnight ’19, Aug. ’22

Joseph M. Pipkin III ’10, March ’22

Angela J. Russell ’00, Sept. ’22

Faculty/Staff

James M. Cook Jr., Jan. ’22

Brian J. Delaney, June ’22

Dr. Graves E. Enck, June ’22

Richard D. Fadgen, May ’22

Michael J. Gootzeit, Aug. ’22

Stephen M. Herriman, July ’22

Sheila R. Hollander ’76, ’80, July ’22

Wanda F. James, Aug. ’22

Samuel W. Jenkins Jr., Aug. ’22

Bernice W. Jones, Aug. ’22

Charles F. McConnell ’89, ’95, ’08, April ’22

Neil A. Mill, Aug. ’22

Allen Orr, May ’22

George E. Relyea ’81, ’82, Jan. ’22

Geddes Self Jr. ’63, Aug. ’22

Dr. Jerry R. Sparge, Aug. ’22

Donald O. Todd ’54, July ’22

Friends

Dr. Larry W. Papasan, May ’22

The University of Memphis expresses sympathy to the families and friends of these individuals:

Driven by Doing.