Vol. 8
January 15, 2007
No. 11
On Campus
WHAT’S INSIDE
A record 484 graduated on December 9
The 484 graduates
on December 9
represented the
largest class in the
history of Winter
Commencement.
Keep up with changes
in campus parking
- page 3
on
Find out what’s
happening at GPAC in
early 2007.
- page 11
Commencement
speaker Dr.
Robert Brown
(History), winner
the UNC Board of
Governors 2006
Award for
Teaching
Excellence,
congratulated
graduates and delivered one final lesson.
On this day in history in 1886, Dr. Brown noted,
inventor Clarence Birdseye was born. There is a
lesson in the life of the man who invented the
modern frozen food industry.
Neither a scholar nor a genius, Birdseye had a
remarkably productive life, and Dr. Brown said all
graduates are capable of great things
Who was Employee of
the Year at UNCP?
– page 16
of of
It’s your birthday!
- page 26
***
News for and about
UNCP’s faculty and staff
A publication of
University & Community Relations
“Birdseye said of himself: ‘I do not consider myself to be a remarkable person. I never
made exceptionally high grades when I went to school. But I am immensely curious
about the things which I see around me and this curiosity, combined with a willingness to
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January 15, 2007
assume risks, has been responsible for such success and satisfaction as I have achieved in
life,’” Dr. Brown said.
The history lesson was followed by a lesson on the value of a college degree. College
graduates’ average annual salary is $51,500, while high school graduates earn $28,600
and high school dropouts only $19,000 annually, he said.
“By receiving this degree, you will be joining an elite group in the United States, not to
mention the world,” he said “And, by earning it you will be gaining privileges as well as
responsibilities.”
However, a college degree holds far greater rewards, Dr. Brown said.
“The financial advantages of a college degree aside, what else makes a college degree
valuable?” he queried. “College graduates frequently have careers that are, according to
one article, ‘professionally satisfying and intellectually stimulating.’
“This sense of opportunity, of doors opening, is truly liberating,” Dr. Brown continued.
“And, bare in mind, if your first job or employment opportunity is not ideal, you have the
resources to make it better.”
Civilization will also benefit from its college graduates, Dr. Brown said.
“Above all, even if you forget many of the facts you memorized, we hope you will retain
from your college experience the qualities of insight, discernment, and wisdom,” he said.
“As citizens and college graduates, you now possess at least some of that knowledge and,
I hope, the wisdom to make informed and responsible choices when called upon to do
so.”
The record number of graduates was due, in part, to the large number of graduate
students, an often-overlooked group at commencement ceremonies. The obstacles to
obtaining an advanced degree can be great for these students.
“It took me three-and-a-half years,” said Rhonda Brink, a
teacher at Wagram Elementary School. “The hardest part is
working full time.”
Kattie Zimmerman, a school counselor at Parkton Elementary,
had an after-school job too.
“I started at 7 a.m., finished work at 5:30 p.m. and then went
to class,” Zimmerman said. “As a graduate student, you have
to balance a lot more.”
Aubrey Swett (LSOP) worked full-time at UNCP, part-time
as pastor of Shannon Missionary Baptist Church and earned a
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January 15, 2007
master’s degree in counseling in four years.
“Managing work, family and school is the most difficult thing,” Swett said. “I’d like to
thank my wife Betty Jo. She kept the family on track.”
There were 150 graduate degrees awarded. The two most popular programs this year
were school administration with 55 graduates and reading education with 34.
UNCP’s own graduates – From left: Carolyn Godwin (Student Support Services), Kim
Locklear (Controller) and Wanda Hammonds (Sociology & Criminal Justice). Godwin
received her Master of Arts in School Counseling, Locklear a Bachelor of Science in
Business Management and Hammonds a Master of Public Administration. Aubrey Swett
(above) received the Master of Service Agency Counseling degree.
New parking available for the Spring Semester
Prior to the end of the fall semester, when the construction of the Auxiliary Services
Complex was completed, the southernmost portion of lot 14, behind Jones Athletic
Center (JAC), was re-opened for parking. In order to accommodate the more than 100
faculty/staff who lost parking due to the construction of Oak Residence Hall.
The Traffic Control Board recommended that this section of the lot (rows 1-5 on the
map) be assigned to faculty/staff. The remainder of the lot remains general parking and is
for faculty, staff and students.
Also, lot 17, in front of Lumbee Hall, was converted to visitor parking. To offset the loss
of faculty/staff parking, the northernmost section of lot 14 (behind JAC) was designated
as general parking.
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January 15, 2007
Lot 14 is open with five rows assigned for faculty/staff parking.
For questions or concerns, please contact David L. Helton (Police & Public Safety).
Retired Faculty Club holds annual luncheon
The Retired Faculty Club
met December 7 with
University administrators
at the Regional Center at
COMtech.
Faculty issues were the
topic of several
presentations, including
one by Chancellor
Meadors.
First row from left: Magnolia O. Lowry (Education) Dr.
Gibson Gray (Political Science), Dr. Peggy Opitz (Nursing),
Dr. Loren Butler(History) and Dr. Robert Romine (Music).
Second row from left: Dr. Jesse Lamm (Education), Dr.
Raymond Rundus (English), James Ebert (Biology) and Dr.
Gilbert Sampson (Mathematics) .
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January 15, 2007
“Thanks to the outstanding work of faculty members that came before them, expectations
are very high for our current faculty, and our students rate them very highly,” Chancellor
Meadors said. “That is not an easy task considering we have added 140 new full-time
faculty members in the past five years.”
Dr. Charles Harrington (Academic Affairs) updated retired faculty on recruitment,
training and retention of faculty. He noted the addition of a new faculty orientation
program, summer research fellowships, awards and a new focus on curriculum, program
and technology development.
“If we are to take the next step in becoming one of the most outstanding universities in
the nation, we will do it by attracting the best and brightest faculty,” Dr. Harrington said.
“The single most important piece is our faculty.”
James Ebert (Biology), who taught in parts of four decades before retiring, said
“leadership is the key to the future of the University,” praising current leadership.
Dr. Robert Schneider, (Political Science, International Programs), returned the favor
before updating the club on the ongoing “internationalization” effort on campus.
“This is a walk down memory lane for me,” Dr. Schneider said. “When I arrived here in
1982, you were the leaders of this outstanding University.”
There are currently a record 81 international students from 21 nations on campus, he said.
“We are bringing the world to Pembroke,” Dr. Schneider said. “We want every student at
UNCP to have an international experience.”
To that end, Dr. Schneider said he is working to integrate an international component into
every academic program across campus.
“You’ve heard it takes a village to raise a child,” he said. “It takes an entire campus to
raise a global village.”
Retired Faculty Club chair Dr. Raymond Rundus (English) thanked the speakers and
updated the group on faculty deaths. He remembered Dr. Paul Freiwirth (History); Dr.
Carl Fisher (Academic Affairs); Dr. John Reissner (Chemistry); Travis Stockley
(Musical Theatre); Alice Borland, wife of the late Jerry Borland (Geography) and Mary
Lou Butler, wife of Dr. Loren Butler (History).
Other members of the club’s board of directors include James Ebert (Biology), Dr.
Dalton Brooks (Physics), Dr. Gibson Gray (Political Science), Dr. Jesse Lamm
(Education), Dr. Robert Romine (Music) and Dr. Norma Jean Thompson
(Admissions).
For information about the Retired Faculty Club, please contact the Office for
Advancement at extension 6252 or email [email protected].
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January 15, 2007
Grant to UNCP will promote robotics program
A grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) will aid astronomy and physics
education in the region’s middle and high schools.
The project, dubbed ROBOTS for Robotics Opportunities for Building Outstanding
Talent in the Sciences, is a two-year statewide grant totaling $748,000 with $20,088
earmarked for UNCP’s region.
Physics and astronomy professor Dr. Jose D’Arruda (Physics) will
lead the effort to identify and train 15-20 public school science
teachers who will work with approximately 250 students.
“It’s a nice little program that will have a big impact on teachers and
students,” Dr. D’Arruda said. “I will train them to build robots with
Legos and other more sophisticated technology.”
The program sponsor is the General Administration of the University of North Carolina
and is part of the NSF’s “Academies for Young Scientists” effort. It focuses on
underserved student groups, including females.
Astronomy training will be provided through Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute
(PARI) and robotics training by the Math and Science in Education Network (MSEN) in
Chapel Hill, N.C., a consortium of 12 state universities.
“The involvement of these two groups is very exciting,” Dr. D’Arruda said. “If you will
remember Cold War history, PARI was once a top secret federal satellite tracking station
and has two huge radio telescopes.”
Dr. D’Arruda has been training public school science teachers for more than 30 years and
is the founder of the annual Region IV Science Fair.
“At UNCP, we view this form of outreach into the public schools as a vital extension of
our higher education mission,” Dr. D’Arruda said. “Besides, it’s a lot of fun, and we
expect to get competitive.”
Dr. D’Arruda will seek additional funding for expanding the program, and he will locate
competition sites for students’ robotics projects.
UNCP reaches out to tornado victims’ communities
RIEGLEWOOD, N.C. -- In the wake of the tornado that killed eight
and devastated the Riegelwood community of Columbus County, Dr.
Collie Coleman (Outreach) joined in reaching out to leaders of the
storm-devastated communities on December 2.
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January 15, 2007
The workshop is part of the ongoing N.C. Step Program of the Rural Economic
Development Center that seeks to aid the development of small, rural towns and
communities. Dr. Coleman presented to the 30-member, leadership group of town and
planning board members and attendees from nearby communities of Sandyfield, East
Arcadia and Bolton.
Dr. Coleman gave a presentation on leadership development, focusing on effective
managerial and leadership strategies and approaches.
“We arrived about two weeks after the tornado and given the devastation of that
community, community leadership was still in shock from the loss of life and property,”
Dr. Coleman said. “Their goal is to bring economic, educational and other opportunities
to their communities, and I believe there is some real potential there.
“I was asked to attend this meeting because there is a need for higher education in those
communities,” Dr. Coleman added. “I felt good about the meeting, and I believe there are
opportunities for UNCP to continue assisting this area in several ways.”
The theme of the workshop was “What Every Small Town Needs To Know For Smart
Growth.” Other topics and presenters included:
• “Our Roles As Elected Officials,” presented by Rob Shepherd of the League of
Municipalities
• “Using Policies and Procedures: To Grow Your Ronald Penny,” presented by Dr.
Ronald Penny, chair of the Department of Public Administration at N.C. Central
University
• “Understanding Municipal Finance” presented by Vance Holland and Sharon
Edmondson of the Office of the North Carolina Treasurer
Dr. Coleman discussed issues of communications, goal setting, public management
techniques and strategies for success.
Workshop participants called it a “good beginning point for more intense, specific
training as to what town leaders need in order to take advantage of help in economic
development,” Dr. Coleman said.
Rural Center representative Roger Sheats said the workshop helped attendees learn how
to “eat the fish and spit out the bones.” It pointed attendees to move from “facts or data to
information to knowledge to wisdom and then to truth,” he said.
Dr. Coleman is planning more workshops for small communities in the future.
“Our hope, is to conduct a series of similar workshops with the Rural Center in 10 - 12
such small communities,” he said. “We will aim to get the first one off and running in
February 2007.”
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January 15, 2007
Trustee Roger Oxendine profiled
Leadership N.C. comes to Robeson, UNCP
If you want to know something about leadership, ask a leader.
That’s what Leadership North Carolina did
December 8 in a seminar at UNC Pembroke’s
Regional Center when it profiled Roger
Oxendine (Board of Trustees), a county
commissioner and chair of the Lumbee River
Electric Membership Cooperative (LREMC)
board of trustees.
Leadership North Carolina is the leading
training institute of leaders in the state. It
brought its current class to Robeson County for
a three-day economic development program,
said its President Brian Etheridge.
UNCP Trustee Roger Oxendine
“We focus on different issue areas and hold our sessions across the state,” Etheridge said.
“We are pleased to be in Robeson County and concentrating on economic development.”
A successful agri-businessman with diverse farm operations in south Robeson County,
Oxendine talked about business leadership and politics in a tri-racial county.
“A lot of you have never worked in a tri-racial setting; it’s unique and to be a leader in
this county is unique,” Oxendine said. “To lead all people – and that is what you must do
– is a challenge.
“We have a lot of managers in this county; I think of myself as a leader,” he said. “To be
a leader, you must do what is right and fair and not hide things. At the end of the day, it
will work out and you will sleep at night.”
Oxendine chaired UNCP’s board when Chancellor Meadors was hired. It was the right
thing to do, he said.
“My stance was to get the best person for the job,” Oxendine said. “We needed someone
with a vision for growth. He was the best man for the job, and it’s worked out well.”
Oxendine is working with Lumbee River EMC and the County Board of Commissioners
to improve the lives of Robesonians through economic development.
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January 15, 2007
“As a county commissioner, my number one priority is to bring jobs to this county,” he
said. “The state and the county commissioners must learn to entice industry to return to
rural areas. It’s a challenge.”
COMtech, home to UNCP’s Regional Center, is a joint county, EMC and private
economic development project.
“It’s got a good start, and we are sticking to our plan to bring good-paying technology
jobs here,” Oxendine said. “I love this county and I love the people.”
A FIRST FOR COUNTY
Having Leadership North Carolina in Robeson County and UNCP was a
first for the county, said Dr. Eric Dent (Business), a graduate of the
institute. The group was welcomed at the Chancellor’s Residence on
December 6.
“We were very pleased to host their session here,” Dr. Dent said. “They
brought 50 leaders from across North Carolina here to learn more about
Robeson County and economic development.”
Leadership North Carolina is a non-partisan, non-profit organization, which identifies
leaders in the state and enhances their leadership skills through discussions with top
officials of the state, professionals in the areas, field trips and experiential activities. The
program cultivates a network of citizens with diverse backgrounds and experiences who
represent the many geographic areas of the State and who are committed to volunteer
service.
The December 6 – 8 session included workshops and tours of Southeastern Regional
Medical Center, Graphic Packaging International and UNCP, including a powwow at the
Native American Resource Center and a reception at the Chancellor’s Residence.
UNCP has several connections to Leadership North Carolina with six graduates on
campus, including Dr. Dent; Lorna Ricotta (Advancement), Sylvia Pate (Regional
Center), Dr. Diane Jones (Student Affairs), Jackie Clark (Enrollment Management) and
Dr. Alfred Bryant (Education).
Upcoming
Dr. Labadie’s digital work on display
“Newly Identified Species,” a digital art exhibition by Dr. John Labadie (Art), is on
display until February 2 in the Art Department Gallery.
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January 15, 2007
For more information see: www.uncp.edu/home/gaywr/. Gallery hours are Monday Thursday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Fridays 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Wellness program ‘Steps Out’ on Wednesday
As part of the Healthy Braves wellness program, faculty and staff are
invited to “Step Out to Lunch!” on Wednesday, January 17, at noon.
The Step Out to Lunch program will meet every Monday, Wednesday
and Friday at the track at noon. All that is needed are a comfortable
pair of shoes - no need to change clothes!
This is a perfect opportunity to keep your New Year resolutions or
get in shape to run or walk the "Rumba on the Lumber" Family Fun
Mile and/or the 5k on Saturday, March 3 in downtown Lumberton.
If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Sonia Tinsley (Health Promotions) at
extension 6347 or Dr. Glen Burnette (University & Community Relations at extension
6249.
Staff Forum is Friday, January 19
The annual Staff Forum with Chancellor Meadors and his executive staff is Friday,
January 19, 10 – 11:30 a.m. in Moore Hall Auditorium. Refreshments will be available.
Local author to speak at Robeson library
The Friends of the Robeson County Public Library
and the Sampson-Livermore Library present author
Lisa Huggins Oxendine on Thursday, January 25, at
7 p.m. in the Osterneck Auditorium of the Robeson
County Public Library. A reception will be held
during the book signing opportunity following
remarks by the author.
The program is free and open to the public.
Lisa Huggins Oxendine, a resident of the Union
Chapel community, is an artist, author and physician’s
assistant. Her most recent book, “The Pink Begonia Sister’s Caribbean Retreat,” deals
with three American Indian women who are turning 40 and facing breast cancer. They
decide to live differently - in the Caribbean.
Oxendine also did the cover and other illustrations for the book. She previously wrote
and published “God’s Breath, Writing to God While Quitting Tobacco” and “Christian
Fitness: An Approach to Mind, Body and Spirit.”
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January 15, 2007
She earned a Bachelor of Science in mathematics and a Master of Arts in Mathematics
Education from UNCP and Physician Assistant certification from Wake Forest
University. She currently works at Pembroke Pediatrics and formerly taught in the Math
Department and worked in the Office of Institutional Research at UNCP.
“UNCP has been a family affair,” she said. “I really enjoy what I do now because I have
always wanted to do something where I could see the difference. Here, believe me, you
see.”
The book took four years of writing and reflection. The author said she conquered many
fears in writing it, and Oxendine believes there is inspiration there “in a fictional setting:
for others.
It is written in everyday language or “rural prose,” Oxendine said.
She is married to Terry Oxendine (UCIS), and they have one daughter, Anastasia. For
more information about the author’s presentation, please contact the library at extension
6516.
Miss UNCP Pageant is January 25
The Miss UNCP Scholarship Pageant is 7 p.m. Thursday, January 25 in GPAC.
Admission is $5 for the general public. Call extension 6297 for more information.
Dan & Jim Seals appear at GPAC on Friday, February 2, at 8
p.m.Tickets are $15 Faculty and Staff. Country Music Award
winner Jim Seals and his brother Dan Seals have an enduring
legacy in American music history. Hardly an hour of AM pop
radio could go by in the 1970s without hearing a song featuring
one of the Seals brothers. The two brothers gained fame as
members of separate pop duos in the 1970s creating such hits as “Hummingbird,”
“Diamond Girl” and “We May Never Pass This Way Again.” Dan Seals first hit the
charts as half of the pop duo England Dan and John Ford Coley in the 1970s and then
went on to a successful solo country music career. Jim Seals was half of the pop duo
Seals and Crofts.
Nikki Giovanni speaks at GPAC on Thursday, February 15, at
7 p.m. Tickets for faculty and staff are $5 each. Yolande
Cornelia “Nikki” Giovanni, is a world-renowned poet, writer,
commentator, activist and educator. Over the past 30 years, her
outspoken views brought the world to her door. One of the most
widely read American poets, she prides herself on being a Black
American, a daughter, a mother and professor of English.
Giovanni has written more than two-dozen books, including
poetry, illustrated children’s books and three collections of
essays. Her book, “Racism 101,” examines race issues from all angles. Her three most
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January 15, 2007
recent volumes of poetry, “Love Poems,” “Blues: For All the Changes” and “Quilting the
Black-Eyed Pea,” won the NAACP’s Image Award. The “Nikki Giovanni Poetry
Collection,” a spoken-word CD, was a finalist for a 2003 Grammy Award. Since 1987,
she instructed writing and literature at Virginia Tech.
People
George Guthrie to lead Office of the Controller
George Guthrie has been named controller and assistant vice
chancellor in the Office for Business Affairs.
Guthrie, who joined UNCP on November 20, will lead a staff of 23
and is responsible for internal and external financial reporting,
accounts payable and receivable, capital project budgeting and
accounting, fixed asset and grant accounting, payroll and
supervision of the cashier’s office.
With a wide range of experience in both public and private sectors, Guthrie replaces Ila
Killian, who was controller for 22 years. He reports to Neil Hawk, vice chancellor for
Business Affairs.
“After a fast and furious search for a new controller and assistant vice chancellor for
Business Affairs, I think we found a person that will serve the department, division, and
University well,” Hawk said. “George is very personable, has good accounting/business
experiences, and is eager to do a great job.
“I don’t necessarily think it will be business as usual, but I do believe that the controller
functions will be carried out in a professional manner,” he added. “I have asked George
to strive to improve efficiencies and to be an effective leader in carrying out his duties
and responsibilities. I look forward to developing a strong working relationship with
George and am confident that he will be very successful in his new role.”
Guthrie said his first visit to UNCP was a pleasant surprise, and he found the
surroundings familiar.
“I was amazed at how pretty the campus is,” he said. “I am from a rural North Carolina
community and I went to a small college, so I like this environment. The folks I’ve met
are really good people.”
He talked about the challenges of his new job.
“The challenge for me is keeping the bar high,” Guthrie said. “Ila Killian’s record was
remarkable. The institutional memory that retired with her is irreplaceable.
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January 15, 2007
“The staff here is impressive with considerable knowledge at each position,” he said.
“They are very customer service oriented, which makes or breaks an organization,
especially one that works with students.
“Down the road, I hope to offer some added value to the enterprise,” he added.
Most recently, Guthrie served as dean of administrative services for Martin Community
College in Williamston, N.C. Before that, he was assistant director of business and
finance for the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Center at UNC-Chapel Hill,
where he directed grant and contract accounting and human resource functions for the
university’s second largest department.
Guthrie worked 17 years at Nortel Networks at Research Triangle Park, N.C., where he
rose to the position of senior manager for technical support and was responsible for
global technical support in North America, Europe, the Middle East and China.
A Beaufort, N.C., native, Guthrie earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Campbell
University and a Master of Business Administration degree from the Fuqua School of
Business of Duke University.
He is on the board of directors of three UNC groups: Center Administrators Support,
Research Administrator Support and University Manager Association. He is also on the
Duke Fuqua Review Board for the School of Business’ Academic Games.
Jessica Hall named associate director of International Programs
Jessica Hall (International Programs) was promoted to the position
of associate director for International Student Services.
In her new job, Hall will work with UNCP’s growing enrollment of
international students in a variety of day-to-day operations including
transportation, advising, healthcare and immigration issues.
In five years with International Programs, Hall has demonstrated her
effectiveness in the administration of critical services to our
international student population, said Dr. Robert Schneider, associate
vice chancellor International Programs.
“Jessica’s energy, commitment, and experience make her an excellent choice for this
important responsibility,” Dr. Schneider said. “Student services are a component that
must be constantly improved in today’s competitive higher education market, and this is
especially true with respect to international students. Jessica has the ability to help make
UNCP a leader in this area.”
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January 15, 2007
Hall, who started as a student worker in the office as a UNCP undergraduate in 2001, said
working with international students is challenging and rewarding.
“My goal is to build opportunities for successful experiences for our internationals that
will enrich them academically, culturally and personally,” Hall said. “We focus on
involvement in campus activities. We want them to experience U.S. culture and take back
ideas, memories and friends that last a lifetime.”
International students may participate in one or more special UNCP programs, such as
the International Student Organization and the Global Connections programs where they
may interact with host families in the community.
“I want international students to find for themselves the answer to the question: ‘what is
American?’” Hall said. “Engagement at this level is how international students become
an asset to all UNCP students.”
Born on the Aleutian Islands and raised around the globe, Hall is a natural fit in
International Programs.
“I want to be the first person our international students interact with on campus and the
last person they see when they board the plane for home,” he said. “It’s an interesting and
very unique job opportunity for me.”
Although communication issues are paramount, the more usual duties sometimes involve
simple transportation.
“Most internationals are used to public transportation, so we work hard on this area,” she
said. “They also are accustomed to bicycles, so I get bikes for them.”
Hall graduated from UNCP in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts degree with a dual major in
English and History. She is currently working toward a Master of Arts degree in English
Education.
Dr. Gay contributes to book on Flemish artists
Dr. Richard Gay (Art) recently contributed to the book “Flemish
Manuscript Painting in Context: Recent Research” published by Getty
Publications (2006). The publication is based on a symposia held at the
J. Paul Getty Museum and the Courtauld Institute of Art in conjunction
with the exhibition Illuminating the Renaissance: The Triumph of
Flemish manuscript Painting in Europe (2003-2004).
Dr. Gay's work on Flemish scribes appears with recent discoveries by experts on Flemish
art including Jonathan Alexander (Institute of Fine Arts, New York University), Chystele
Blondeau (University of Paris X), Lorne Campbell (National Gallery London), Catherine
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January 15, 2007
Reynolds (Christie's, London), Jan Van der Stock (Catholic University of Leuven,
Belgium), among others.
UNCP embarks on international business journal
The School of Business in partnership with China University of
Geosciences-Beijing announced the introduction of a new academic
journal, the International Journal of Sustainable Strategic Management.
The journal will be published by British publisher Inderscience
(http://www.inderscience.com/browse/index.php?journalID=244) with
the first issue likely off the press in early 2008.
The journal will be supported by an editorial review board, featuring faculty from both
universities, as well as a number at other institutions throughout the world. Logistical
details should be clarified by the end of January, according to an announcement by Dr.
Eric Dent (Business).
The news was quickly hailed by Dr. Robert Schneider (International Programs).
“I want to commend Dr. Parnell and the School of Business on an important and (for
UNCP) historic initiative,” Dr. Schneider said. ”This is truly a huge and exciting step for
UNCP. The International Journal of Sustainable Strategic Management will become a
valued resource for leaders in organizations and governments and will invite intellectual
contributions from across disciplines. This initiative will not only enhance the
international visibility and international mission of the institution, but will contribute
much to image and reputation of our great University.”
Questions should be forwarded to Dr. John Parnell (Business) at
[email protected].
Dr. Farley named an editor of geology journal
Dr. Martin Farley (Geology) was appointed an associate editor of
Palaios, an international journal published by the Society for
Sedimentary Geology (SEPM).
Palaios is a bimonthly journal dedicated to the impact of life on
Earth's history as recorded in the paleontological and sedimentological
records. The readership of Palaios includes an international spectrum
of scientists interested in a broad range of topics, including but not
limited to biogeochemistry, computational models, evolution, geochronology, ichnology,
paleobiogeography, paleoclimatology, paleoecology, paleoceanography,
paleoclimatology, sedimentology, and stratigraphy. Contributors to Palaios emphasize
using paleontology to answer important questions about geology and biology that further
our understanding of the history of Earth systems and the evolution of life.
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January 15, 2007
Dr. Farley named to NSF panel
Martin Farley has also been asked to serve on the National Science Foundation review
panel that will evaluate proposals submitted in response to the Opportunities for
Enhancing Diversity in the Geosciences solicitation. The panel will meet in Washington
in late January.
Teacher Cadet Day event staged for Hoke students
Hoke County High School Teacher Cadet students were hosted on
campus for a full day of recruitment activities organized by Dr.
Valjeaner B. Ford (Education).
The students were welcomed by the Dean Dr. Zoe Locklear, followed
by an overview of the School of Education with Dr. Jane Huffman,
chair of the Education Department.
An overview of the Teaching Fellows Program was provided by Director, Karen
Granger, which was followed by a question and answer segment with Dr. Valjeaner
Ford,
Teaching Fellows students gave a campus tour, that ended in the Offices of Admissions
and Financial Aid. Remarks were given by Dr. Sara Simmons, NCATE director. To end
the day's activities, students had an opportunity to listen to our Distinguished Teacher of
the Year, Mrs. Diana Beasley. Gifts were provided by the University-School Program,
directed by Pam Carroll.
Canida wins Educator of Year Award
Robert L. Canida, II, (Multicultural and Minority Affairs) was given the
named the Educator of the Year Award, presented by the Lumberton
Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. on December 16.
Canida, along with four other Robeson County residents in the areas of
business, social, civic and medice were honored at the Kappa's annual
“Celebrating Achievements Through Community Service Affair.”
Dr. Lightfoot exhibiting at Francis Marion
Art by Dr. Tulla Lightfoot (Art) is on display at the Hyman Fine Arts Gallery at Francis
Marion University in Florence, S.C. The exhibit is entitled “Carolina Seasons.”
The Brave Bulletin
Page 16
January 15, 2007
Stephanie Marson participated in Macy’s Parade
Unlike most kids, 12-year-old Stephanie Marson wasn’t
sitting on the couch watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving
Day Parade from her home in Lumberton, N.C. This
year, the 6th-grader, who is the daughter of Dr. Steve
Marson (Social Work), sang and danced in the worldfamous event as part of the group, “Camp Broadway.”
These 600 boys and girls performed the opening act in
Herald Square for the 80th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving
Day Parade.
Marson, who attends Flora Macdonald Academy,
auditioned for a spot in August and was selected from
over 2,000 children from the U.S. and Australia. She was
in New York for five days prior to the show for
rehearsals and a costume fitting. The Camp Broadway
kids represented Macy’s stars, clowns, drummers and tap
dancers. Marson was one of the Macy’s stars. The Camp
Broadway kids performed “Give Me A Drum!,” an
original composition written for the parade by Broadway
composer Michael Feinstein.
Stephanie getting ready.
Despite the rehearsal schedule, Marson found time
to ice skate at Rockefeller Center, visit Liberty
Island, see two shows, and meet a Radio City
Rockette. Even the rain on parade day didn’t
dampen her spirit, as she lined up with the group
two hours prior to the start of the parade. Luckily,
the rain lightened during the opening act. When
asked about her favorite part of the experience, she
said, “Doing it all---it was amazing!”
Having a love for music and the theater, Stephanie
has been active locally in performances with Studio
One and the Carolina Civic Center. Currently, she
takes voice and dance at Bravo Studios in
Lumberton. She is the daughter of Dr. Marson and
Dr. Barbara Marson.
With the Rockettes
The Brave Bulletin
Page 17
January 15, 2007
Cynthia Saylor completes prestigious program
by Michael Alewine (Library)
Cynthia E. Saylor (Library) graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill’s
BRIDGES program on November 18. Saylor started the program in
September and attended the four weekends of the program on her own
time.
BRIDGES is designed to help women move into leadership roles. Open
to women in institutions of higher education, both public and private,
the program helps women develop insights into leadership, acquire an
understanding of institutions of higher education, refine and improve cross-cultural
communication skills and finally to create a program of personal and professional
development to benefit themselves and their institutions.
Other BRIDGES graduates from UNCP include Cherry Beasley (Nursing) and Dr.
Kathleen Hilton (Graduate Studies). Dr. Hilton attended Cindy’s BRIDGES graduation
ceremony.
Saylor said, “BRIDGES was an experience unlike any other I’ve had as a professional or
as an individual. With its holistic approach, the program is designed to assist women with
self-assessment and with both transition and transformation in leadership roles. However,
equally, and maybe even more important, is the network of friends that I now have at
institutions across the state, as well as the support, expertise, and resources that each may
offer for nearly any challenge I face. The program was well worth my time, and I would
do it all again in a heartbeat.”
Dr. Elinor Foster (Library) said, “Cindy’s already outstanding leadership capabilities
were recognized by her nomination for the BRIDGES program by Dr. (Bill) Gash.
Participation in the leadership development program provided Cindy with an excellent
opportunity to further enhance her leadership skills, and I believe she recognized the
value of the honor for which she had been selected and participated fully in BRIDGES
events. Speaking for myself, the beauty of this series of events in Cindy’s professional
development journey is that she will be applying the new ideas and skills she learned in
the past few months through participation in BRIDGES within the Sampson-Livermore
Library. Cindy would be sure to attest that she met some talented, energizing individuals
who were her BRIDGES associates, and she will value the opportunity to stay in touch
with them as she continues in her career at UNC Pembroke.”
Saylor thanked Dr. Foster, Dr. William Gash (Academic Affairs) and Dr. Charles
Harrington (Academic Affairs) for their encouragement and support of her participation
in the BRIDGES program.
The Brave Bulletin
Page 18
January 15, 2007
Employee of the Year
Fourteen-year employee Debbie
Jacobs (Disability Support Services)
received Employee of the Year
honors from Chancellor Meadors at
the annual Holiday Luncheon on
December 12. Her sister Cynthia
Oxendine (Student Affairs) was
Employee of the Year for 2002-03.
UNCP Cookbook
on sale now
The UNCP Cookbook, featuring 91
pages and more than 200 recipes from
staff and faculty is now on sale for $10.
From traditional American Indian fare
to international fare, it has recipes from
appetizers to desserts and everything in
between. To obtain a copy, contact
Brenda K. Jacobs (Regional Center),
pictured at left at extension 5737 or
email [email protected] or
cookbook editor Kay Oxendine at
extension 6482 or email
[email protected].
The Brave Bulletin
Page 19
January 15, 2007
Pitching in
for charity
Staff Council canned food
drive volunteers filled up a
pick-up truck during the
December 12 Holiday
Luncheon that was
delivered (below) along
with hot food to Sacred
Pathways food bank and
soup kitchen. At top from
left are Freddie Bell
(Physical Plant), Roger
Killian (Business Affairs), David Young (Library) and Laten Jones (Physical Plant)
Below from left are Lucy Hammonds (Residence Life), Dr. Ruth Dial Woods of Sacred
Pathways, Brenda Kay Jacobs (Regional Center), Kay Oxendine (Student Activities) and
Killian.
The Brave Bulletin
Page 20
January 15, 2007
One family with many ties to the University
Laten Jones (Physical Plant) is a familiar face on campus as a groundskeeper and
member of the Staff Council. When it comes to his family connections to UNCP, he’s
just the starting point.
Jones’ wife, daughter and sister are
students at the University. All three are
non-traditional students and all nearing
graduation.
The family, including seven-year-old
Desaree and grandmother, Carrie Mae
Cummings, staged a family reunion for
a photograph on a warm January
afternoon. It was the only time they
could remember getting together as a
family on campus. But they are
planning several more campus
reunions at future graduations.
“We’re all pretty busy, so I might see
my aunt here once in a while,” said
Starlette Jacobs, who is a senior middle
grades language arts and social studies
education major. “I started in 1999 and
had two children. I’m full time now
and almost finished.”
Martha Jones works full time at the
Rennert Head Start and is a junior
majoring in birth-to-kindergarten
education.
Pictured from left: Gainer Cummings Deaver,
Desaree, Starlette Jacobs, Carrie Mae Cummings,
Martha and Laten Jones
“I have learned a lot at the University, and my goal is to continue in Head Start,” Martha
Jones said.
Gainer Cummings Deaver works full time at the Lumber River Council of Governments
and is a senior majoring in sociology.
“I hope to go into social services of some kind,” Deaver said. “It’s been a long road, but
I’m almost there.”
The Brave Bulletin
Page 21
January 15, 2007
The inspiration for the family education movement is undoubtedly 87-year-old Carrie
Mae.
“I quit school to provide for the family when I was in the 7th grade,” she said with a
smile. “I started back when I was 50 and got my high school diploma when I was 55.”
“She’s an inspiration to all of us by her example,” Laten Jones said. “She knows how to
motivate us when we need it.”
“This University is pretty important to my family too,” he said.
Birthdays, January 1 - 31
January 1 - 15
Allen, Natasha D.
Alligood, Ronald R.
Arndt, Robert J.
Baker, Mary
Beken, Don E.
Bloomer, Regina D.
Campbell, Wanda J.
Dalen, Mark L.
Deese, Shirley L.
Dial-Jacobs, Vicky L.
Dupree, Elaine T.
Emanuel, Tina P.
Evans, Dana J.
Ford, Valjeaner B.
Hopper, Janette K.
Hunt, Terry A.
Johnson, John H.
Jones, Mcarthur
Kinlaw, Kandice
Klinikowski, Mary B.
Little, Linda
Locklear, Janice A.
Locklear, Susan O.
Owens, Timothy T.
Piatkiewicz, Leszek
Poole, Angelyn P.
Presley, Marion J.
Price, Carolyn T.
Stanley, Karen L.
Stephens, Frederick
The Brave Bulletin
Page 22
January 15, 2007
Tapp, James M.
Thomas, William S.
Thompson, Marion
Tita, Charles A.
Vallabha, Sailaja
Ward, Ethel G.
Wright, Gary K.
January 16 - 31
Alewine, Michael C.
Bullard, Nicky M.
Carter, Jennifer O.
Cheek, Evelyn D.
Coleman, Kyle C.
Coulon, Rolland
Davis, Danny R.
Deese, Valarie M.
Denny, Elizabeth B.
Freeman, Flora J.
Freeman, Kevin S.
Fumo, Raymond R.
Gertz, Frances F.
Godwin, Carolyn G.
Graham, Meki J.
Harrelson, Shanna M.
Hughes, Robert D.
Jacobs, Brenda C.
Jernigan, Leon S.
Locklear, John A.
Locklear, Tonya E.
Maisonpierre, Elizabeth W.
McPherson, Brenda H.
Oxendine, David B.
Oxendine, Laronda L.
Peuster, Gloria J.
Phillips, Marion J.
Redman, David J.
Sanderson, Dedra
Schneider, Robert O.
Sharp, Sharon L.
Swiney, Karen A.
Waterkotte, Sandra K.
Weber, Mildred
Yang, Hualiu
The Brave Bulletin
Page 23
January 15, 2007
NEW HIRES
Terran Chesnutt - Student Services Assistant IV, Registrar
Shawn Haywood - Housekeeper, Housing
Valerie Turnmire - Sales Manager III, Bookstore
Denise Bullard - Program Assistant V, Academic Affairs
William McMillian Jr. - Accounting Specialist II, Controller
Alison Decinti - Assistant Director of Major Planning & Giving, Advancement
Aubrey Swett - Director of Leadership & Service, Student Activities
PROMOTIONS
James Purcell - Housekeeping Supervisor III, Physical Plant
Wanda Campbell - Administrative Secretary II, Student Affairs
Jessica Hall - Associate Director, International Programs, Academic Affairs
Mark Schwarze - Staff Counselor/Psychologist, Counseling and Testing
RE-ASSIGNMENTS
Ricky Ransom - Sales Manager III, Bookstore
Julious Hagans - Library Technician Assistant I, Library
BIRTHS
Congratulations to Terry McNish (Physical Plant) on the birth of two grandchildren:
Jazzalynn Brooke, born to his son, Keith, on October 10, weighing 7 lbs., 6 oz. and
Brayden Allen who was born to his daughter, Laura, on December 3, weighing 8 lbs., 1
oz.
Congratulations to James B. Locklear III (Physical Plant) and his wife, Kelly, on their
new daughter. Lydia Blanch Locklear was born on Monday, December 18, at noon,
weighing 7 lbs., 1 oz. and 20 inches long.
On December 27 at 8:01 a.m. Kevin Goins (Physical Plant) and his wife Camille
welcomed a son, Caleb Charles. Caleb weighed 7 lbs., 7 1/2 ounces.
James Bass (Alumni) and his wife Paula
'03, welcomed their first
child, Layna Levay, on Friday, December
29. She was 7 lbs., 3 oz. and 21 inches.
The Brave Bulletin
Page 24
January 15, 2007
WEDDINGS
Rhonda Carol Allen (Alumni) was married to
Donald Saron Chavis on November 18 at The Rock
Church of God. The couple honeymooned in the
Bahamas and reside in Lumberton, N.C.
Donald Johnson & Sharon Campbell-Johnson,
Locksmith (Physical Plant) were
married in Jamaica on December 26.
Deaths
The Brave Bulletin
Page 25
January 15, 2007
Lance Carter, father of Lela Clark (Admissions), passed away on December
25 in Fayetteville, N.C.
Ida Mae Hunt, mother of Robert Hunt (Physical Plant), passed away on January 3.
* * *
The Brave Bulletin is a publication of University & Community Relations. The Brave
Bulletin’s mission is to publicize the landmark events and outstanding accomplishments
of the University and its faculty, staff and their families. For information or to submit
your news, please call extension 6351, or email [email protected]. The Bulletin is
online at: www.uncp.edu/relations/bulletin/.
The next Brave Bulletin publication date is February 1, 2007.
The Brave Bulletin
Page 26
January 15, 2007