Alumni Columns (Volume Fall 2018)

2018·31.3 MB·English

by  Northwestern State University

FALL 2018
Northwestern State University Magazine
Messages Alumni Columns
Official Publication of
Northwestern State University
Natchitoches, Louisiana
Organized in 1884
A member of CASE
Dear Alumni:
Volume XXVIII Number 3 Fall 2018
The Alumni Columns (USPS 015480) is published
by Northwestern State University,
This new school year at your alma mater is generating
Natchitoches, Louisiana, 71497-0002
extensive excitement and positive attention. Periodicals Postage Paid at Natchitoches, La.,
Numerous campus improvements have been complet- and at additional mailing offices.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the
ed or are underway. The new NSU Marketplace bookstore Alumni Columns, Northwestern State University,
and retail area is open at the site of the former bookstore Natchitoches, La. 71497-0002.
Alumni Office Phone: [phone] and 888-799-6486
on University Parkway. That modern and expansive retail
FAX: [phone] • E-mail: [email protected]
space will include a Chick-fil-A Express.
NSU ALUMNI OFFICERS
If you have made it to a football game this year, you saw President ................Caron Chester Coleman, Natchitoches, 2000
Dr. Chris Maggio
the improvements in and around Turpin Stadium. 1st Vice President ..................Dr. P. Cade Brumley, Stonewall, 2002
1985, 1991 2nd Vice President ....Patricia Hrapmann, New Orleans, 1973, 1978
President These and other projects have created an enhanced Secretary .....................................Mike Wilburn, Shreveport, 1975
Northwestern State atmosphere for students, faculty and staff, prospective Treasurer ..................................W. Lane Luckie, Tyler, Texas, 2008
University
students, alumni and others. Some of the funding for EX OFFICIO MEMBERS
the upgrades was provided by alumni and other external NSU President ..................................Dr. Chris Maggio, 1985, 1991
Vice President for External Affairs ....................Jerry Pierce, 1961
partners. Assistant Vice President of External Affairs
All of us deeply appreciate this support that reflects the for University Advancement ................Drake Owens, 2004, 2005
pride of alumni and friends in our university. This campus BOARD OF DIRECTORS
beautification will make a favorable impression on pro- Jerry Brungart .........................................Natchitoches, 1969, 1971
Tommy Chester .................................................Natchitoches, 1969
spective students and other visitors in the years ahead. Monty Chicola ................................................Natchitoches, 1979, 1980
We are proud this year to be celebrating the 30th an- Shade Dufrene ................................................Baton Rouge, 1999, 2003
Leonard Endris ...........................................Shreveport, 1974, 1975
niversary of the Mrs. H.D. Dear and Alice E. Dear School of Allen Evans ............................................................Shreveport, 1989
Creative and Performing Arts. CAPA is widely recognized John Evans ..........................................................Natchitoches, 1992
Dr. Hayward Hargrove ......................Black Mountain, N.C., 1964
as an area of excellence at Northwestern. The school Trey Hill ....................................................................Carencro, 1985
Carlos Jones .............................................Round Rock, Texas, 1993
continues to produce outstanding students, performances
Gail Jones ..........................................................Natchez, 1981, 1998
and exhibits that demonstrate the enormous talents of its Matt Koury ................................................................Leesville, 1995
Bryant Lewis .........................................................Haynesville, 1958
students, faculty and staff.
Dr. Lisa Landry Mathews ....................................Shreveport, 1992
Northwestern’s reputation for innovation and excel- Kim Martin.........................................................Lake Charles, 1988
Leah Sherman Middlebrook .............................Dallas, 1986, 2016
lence in higher education is expanding across Louisiana
Virginia Monceret ................................................New Roads, 2001
and beyond. This momentum is a tribute to our dedicated Kip Patrick ...................................................Washington, DC, 1995
Cliff Poimboeuf .....................................................Shreveport, 1984
and impressive faculty and staff, outstanding students and Michael Prudhomme ................................................Natchez, 1984
loyal alumni and friends. Joseph W. Schelette ...............................................Shreveport, 1969
Nikki Ceaser Small ............................................Dallas, Texas, 2007
Thanks for all you do to support Northwestern in its im- Mark Spikes ..............................................League City, Texas, 1991
portant work to expand educational achievement, cultural David Stamey .....................................................Natchitoches, 1982
Joseph B. Stamey ................................................Natchitoches, 1983
enrichment, economic development and the quality of life Glenn Talbert ........................................................Shreveport, 1964
in this region, the state and nation. Taylor Townsend ...............................................Natchitoches, 1986
Carlos Treadway .............................................Northville, MI, 1992
Marti Vienne ......................................................Natchitoches, 1982
Jim Villard .............................................................Alexandria, 1983
Dr. Leonard Williams ........................................New Orleans, 1993
Dear Alumni:
STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE
Jacob Ellis ....................................................Athens, SGA President
Once again, we are in the full swing of semester activi-

ties and planning for another memorable Homecoming Publisher .................................................Drake Owens, 2004, 2005
Editor ..........................................Leah Pilcher Jackson, 1994, 2011
celebration. You will find a full schedule of Homecoming
Contributors ....................................................................David West
events in the center of this magazine and we hope you Doug Ireland, 1986
Matthew Vines, 2016
will plan to participate. Photography ..............................................Chris Reich, 2007, 2009
Our alumni engagement continues to grow with 24 Gary Hardamon
Design/Layout ..................................Beth McPherson Mann, 1975
alumni chapters nationwide and a growing number of at-
Drake Owens tendance at each activity. If there is not an alumni chapter
2004, 2005 in your area, we know a few people who will be happy to
Assistant Vice
assist you in starting one.
President of External
Northwestern State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and
Affairs for University Our students today face enormous challenges, financial Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, specialists,
Advancement and otherwise. In our efforts to expand programs and cre- and doctorate degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane,
Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation
ate new partnerships, we are grateful to you, our alumni, of Northwestern State University.
for your commitment and support. We at Northwestern
Northwestern State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender,
State continue to pursue many promising endeavors that religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, age, pregnancy
or parenting status, and veteran or retirement status in its programs and activities and
will enhance student life, academic success and commu- provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The follow-
ing individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination
nity enrichment and we thank you for all that you do to
policies (i.e., Title IX): Employees/Potential Employees – Veronica M. Biscoe, EEO Officer
support your alma mater. (318-357-6359); Students – Frances Conine, Dean of Students (318-357-5286). For Ameri-
cans with Disabilities Act (ADA) concerns, contact the Disability Support Director, Catherine
Faucheaux, at 318-357-4460. Additionally, Northwestern complies with the Jeanne Clery
Disclosure of Campus Security Policy & Campus Crime Statistics Act. Information about
On the Cover: Students concluded their first day of Class with Color Chaos, a popular annual tailgate dinner NSU’s campus security and crime statistics can be found at http://universitypolice.nsula.
and paint war. Color Chaos is just one of many activities that kick off the Fall 2018 Demon Days that engage edu/annual-security-report/. Full disclosure statement: http://universityplanning.nsula.
edu/notice-of-non-discrimination.
students in campus life, academics, social activities and community service.
LAGNIAPPE
CLASS OF 2022
Northwestern State University welcomed the Class of 2022 to
campus with the annual New Student Convocation and President’s
Picnic Sunday, Aug. 19. New Student Convocation is a ceremony to
mark the beginning of each student’s academic journey, encourage a
sense of camaraderie among the class and introduce university tradi-
tions. About 1,500 new students are enrolled at NSU for the Fall 2018
semester.
Coolest new teaching tool:
Anatomage table
Northwestern State’s School
of Biological and Physical
Sciences acquired the most
technologically advanced
anatomy visualization system
for anatomy education. The
Anatomage Table features
life-size digital images of the
human anatomy with digital
body cadavers that are com-
pletely annotated and fully
dissectable. High resolution
visualization is available for
nerves, blood cells, bones
and internal organs. It can be
displayed vertically or hori-
zontally.
This public document was published at a total cost of $23,450. 50,000 copies of this public document were published in
this first printing at a cost of $23,450. The total cost of all printings of this document, including reprints is $23,450. This
document was published by Northwestern State University Office of University Advancement and printed by Creasey Print-
ing Services, 1905 Morning Sun, Springfield, IL 62711 to foster and promote the mutually beneficial relationship between
Northwestern State University and its alumni, supporters and community partners. This material was printed in accordance
with standards for printing by state agencies established pursuant to R.S. 43.31. Printing of this material was purchased in
accordance with the provisions of Title 43 of the Louisiana Revised Statues.
1 FALL 2018
Alumni News
Trahan speaks to Class of 2022 at New Student Convocation
Colin Trahan, center, who graduated
from the Louisiana Scholars’ College in
2002, was the alumni speaker dur-
ing Fall Convocation. Trahan resides
in California with his wife and two
children and has enjoyed a successful
career in musical theatre. He is also
recognizable from the “Pit of Misery”
installment of Bud Light’s popular
Dilly Dilly commercials. From left are
students Zachary Breaux and Jacob
Ellis, Student Affairs Director Reatha
Cox, Trahan, student speakers Abi-
gail Reynolds and Tarik Andrus, NSU
President Dr. Chris Maggio and student
Madysen Watts.
Texas band directors building excellence at Atlanta ISD
A middle school band directed by tin and her husband David Thompson “Winning Honor Band is a very sur-
NSU Alumna Kristin McLaurin Thomp- (2003) team teach 6-12th grade band real experience,” she said. “I have been
son was named the Texas 1C “Honor students at Atlanta ISD. David is the to more Honor Band performances at
Band,” the equivalent of being named brass specialist and middle school TMEA [Texas Music Educators Associa-
Band of the Year for the entire state of Concert Band director and Kristin is the tion] than I can remember, but NEVER
Texas. woodwind specialist and middle school did I think that I would be standing
Thompson (2004) directs the At- Symphonic Band director. on that stage conducting my own
lanta (Texas) Middle School Symphon- “We are literally around each other ensemble. As we set our sights on
ic Band, which was the first of any 24/7 between working and living to- Honor Band, my students understood
band in Atlanta to ever have gether, yet it works for us,” Kristin said. the work ethic and dedication it would
been named “I love having the opportunity to teach take to achieve such a goal. They
Honor Band, the same student(s) for seven years never backed down.”
an honor that because I not only get to watch them Kristin is a native of Dry Prong and
many music grow as musicians, but also into young David is a native of Whitehouse, Texas.
educators adults.”
work their Both earned bachelor’s degrees in “David and I feel fortunate
entire ca- music education at NSU. This year is to have had such a world class
reers toward. Kristin’s 14th and David’s 15th year at education from NSU. There are
Kris- Atlanta ISD, where they are two so many professors that played
of five directors. The couple a key role in our education and
married in 2006 and have two
development, but Bill Brent, Dr. Jeff
daughters, Ryleigh, 10, and
Mathews and Galindo Rodriquez
Reagan, 8.
stand out above the rest. These
Atlanta Middle School has
men care deeply about their music
363 students in grades 6-8
programs and every student
and 283 of those are band
students, which Kristin cred- they come in contact with. They
its to the dynamics of their repeatedly show how much a
staff and the strong sup- student can truly flourish with a
port from colleagues at little patience, understanding, and
the school. encouragement.”
—K ristin
2 FALL 2018
Alumni News
NSU wishes happy birthday to centenarians
Stine and Scriber
Mary Virginia Harkey Scriber (Class of 1939)
of Winnsboro was Queen for a Day as she cel-
ebrated her 100th birthday June 26 with family
and friends. She graduated from Louisiana State
Normal College, as NSU was then known, with
a degree in primary education. She was a member of Delta Sigma Epsilon Sorority
and the Panhellenic Council.
“She has many good memories of her college days,” according to her daughter,
Ginger White.
White said her mother grew up in San Antonio, Texas, but after the death of her
mother lived during the school year with her grandparents at Fort Necessity near
Winnsboro. She graduated from high school at Fort Necessity in 1935 and enrolled
at Normal where her mother, May Henrietta Grayson, was also an alumna.
After earning her teaching degree, Scriber taught for school in Winnsboro where
many of her former students still remember “Miss Harkey,” White said. She married
in 1942 and kept teaching while her husband served during World War II. Upon his
return the couple started a family and Scriber was a homemaker involved with her
church and community.
Mary Virginia
“She is a wonderful, sweet, sparkling gal,” White said.
Scriber was a scrapbooker before scrapbooking was a popular hobby and has many Harkey Scriber
mementoes from her days at Normal – photographs, clippings, pins, cards, flowers
and her sorority pin now part of a charm bracelet.
Northwestern State University hon- sweetheart Dorris “Dee Dee” Drost. They Stine Lumber Company. He became
ored alumnus J.W. Stine of Sulphur with were married 67 years until her passing the sole owner in 1952, and during the
the Nth Degree, a special award that in 2011 and raised six sons and one 1960s and 70s, all six of his sons joined
recognizes an individual for meritori- daughter. Stine has 31 grandchildren him in the family business.
ous service to others. Stine, a World War and 71 great-grandchildren. Headquartered in Sulphur, the com-
II veteran combat pilot and long-time In World War II, Stine flew more than pany employs 850 associates at 10 loca-
Louisiana businessman and philanthro- 40 combat missions as pilot of a B-26 tions in Louisiana and one in Mississippi.
pist, celebrated his 100th birthday July Marauder in the 17th Bombardment Although he has been retired for many
22. Group, which conducted missions years, Stine still has an office in the busi-
Stine was born to Sulphur residents against targets throughout the Mediter- ness. Stine Lumber hosted a 100th birth-
Andrew Stine and Elma Landry Stine ranean, Italy, France and Germany. day celebration at each of its stores on
and attended Sulphur High School, After the war Stine and a friend start- Aug. 4. A private family celebration also
where he played quarterback for four ed a construction company and later a took place.
years. He enrolled at Normal College on lumber company in Sulphur, now called Stine is a member of Our Lady of
a football scholarship in 1939 and lived Prompt Succor Catholic Church in Sul-
in Caspari Hall, then a men’s dormitory. phur and has been a member of the
He left school to join the U.S. Knights of Columbus and the
Army Air Corps, now the American Legion for many
U.S. Air Force, in 1943 years. He has supported
and was sent over- many organizations
seas in 1944. in the community
Just before and in 1989, was
he left to serve awarded Citizen
overseas, he of the Year by
married his the Diocese of
high school Lake Charles.
3 FALL 2018
Alumni News
Spotlights
Congratulations to NSU and Spirit Caddo Parish educator K. Renae
of Northwestern alum Mark Reilly on Pullen (1998) was appointed to a new
his selection to Sergeant Major for the national advisory panel created to
United State Army Old Guard Fife and encourage scientific and technologi-
Drum Corps. The United States Army cal innovations in education. Pullen
Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps is one will join the Science, Technology,
of four premier musical organizations Engineer and Mathematics Advisory
of the United States Army. Members Panel established in 2017 that is com-
perform using musical instruments posed of individuals from non-profit,
Dr. Karen Landry of Texarkana, and wearing uniforms similar to those business, academic and informa-
Texas, was named chair of the Depart- used by military musicians of the tion education organizations and
ment of Nursing at Southern Arkansas Continental Army during the Ameri- will advise the National Science and
University earlier this year. Landry can Revolution. Technology Council’s Committee on
earned both her B.S. (1972) and M.S. It is the only unit of its kind in the Science, Technology, Engineering and
(1975) in nursing from Northwestern United States’ armed forces, and is Mathematics Education on matters
State University and her Ph.D. in nurs- part of the 3rd U.S. Infantry (“The Old related to the nation’s STEM educa-
ing from Texas Woman’s University. Guard”). The Fife and Drum Corps has tion efforts.
She presently serves as department been stationed at Fort Myer, Virginia, The National Science Foundation in
chair and director of nursing at Texas since its founding on February 23, consultation with the Department of
A&M University-Texarkana, Texas, 1960. Education, the National Aeronautics
where she is accountable for the * * * and Space Administration and the
planning, implementation and evalu- Darryl Willis (1991) has been ap- National Oceanic and Atmospheric
ation of the professional education pointed to INROADS Inc.’s national Administration (NOAA) announced
program. She also assists the college board of directors. INROADS is a the appointment in July.
dean in designated college initiatives. national nonprofit organization dedi- Pullen has been an educator in
cated to developing and placing tal- Caddo Parish for more than 18 years,
* * *
Sue Westbrook, longtime dean ented underserved youth in business teaching at Riverside Elementary and
of the College of Nursing and Allied and industry and preparing them for Herndon Magnet. She also taught
Health at Nicholls State University, corporate and community leadership. undergraduate and graduate stu-
has been named provost and vice Willis serves as vice president of the dents as an adjunct professor for
president for academic affairs, pend- Oil, Gas and Energy Sector at Google Louisiana Tech and LSU-Shreveport.
ing approval by the University of Loui- Cloud. As an INROADS alumnus, he She earned a Bachelor of Arts in
siana System Board of Supervisors. is eager to be able to bring his many Elementary Education at NSU and a
After graduating from Northwest- years of expertise full circle to the Master of Education in educational
ern State University, Westbrook organization that helped him start his leadership at LSU-Shreveport. She is
worked as a nurse for three years career years ago. His three-year term also certified as a Teacher Leader by
before joining the Nicholls faculty as began May 18. the State of Louisiana.
an instructor. Over the course of the Willis earned a Master of Science in Pullen has served on several local,
next three decades, she added gradu- Management from Stanford Univer- state and national committees, pre-
ate degrees from Nicholls and the sity with concentrations in Managing sented at numerous workshops and
LSU Health Sciences Center. She was Global Businesses and Social Respon- conferences and currently serves as
named dean of the College of Nursing sibility, a Master of Science in Geology a member of the Teachers’ Advisory
and Allied Health in 2004. and Geophysics from the University Council for the National Academies of
She has served on the State Board of New Orleans and a Bachelor of Sci- Sciences. Pullen has received numer-
of Nursing and was named one of The ence in Chemistry & Literature from ous awards including the Wal-Mart
Great 100 Nurses of Louisiana in 2016. the Louisiana Scholars College at Local Teacher of the Year award in
Under Westbrook’s watch, Nicholls Northwestern State. Earlier this year, 2007, Caddo Parish Teacher of the
nursing graduates regularly pass he was inducted into NSU’s Alumni Year in 2006, several grants, a Fund for
the national licensure exam at rates Hall of Distinction, the Long Purple Teachers fellowship to study creativ-
greater than both the national and Line. ity and STEM in Spain, a fellowship
state average, and 100 percent of all * * * from the National Endowment for
recent graduates are employed. the Humanities to study the Ameri-
can Skyscraper in Chicago, Northwest
* * *
4 FALL 2018
Alumni News
Louisiana Young Professionals Initia- Wiggins said. “Receiving this award
tive’s 40 Under 40 in 2015 and the is a true honor and testament to our
Presidential Award for Excellence in community. My heart is full and I ac-
Math and Science Teaching. cept this recognition with humility as
* * * I have the privilege of living out my
Kevin Gray Richardson (1997) has dream each and every day. I would
taken over as band director at the like to extend a special thank you out
University of Texas of the Permian to the Saurage family and the Dream
Basin in Odessa, Texas. He was previ- Teacher organization for working so
ously band director of the Marching hard to celebrate the work of our fine
Mountaineers at Appalachia State educators.”
University. Richardson is a native Wiggins earned a bachelor’s degree
of Baytown, Texas, who earned a in elementary education at NSU, a
bachelor’s degree in music education Master’s of Education in Counseling Caddo Sheriff’s Cpl. Justin McDon-
from the University of Texas at Austin, at LSU and Plus 30 graduate hours. nell (2007) was named Hero of the
a master’s in conducting from NSU She is certified in elementary grades, Year by First Baptist Church Bossier.
and a doctorate in conducting from kindergarten, supervisor of student Cpl. McDonnell, Shreveport Fireman
University of Houston Moores School teaching, counselor in elementary Jae-Preston Pollard, and U.S. Air Force
of Music. He is a former percussionist schools and school librarian. Captain Khalisha Starr were recog-
who taught high school for 10 years. * * * nized during the church’s annual
The UTPB Falcon Marching Band is Oceans Healthcare Chairman and Honor Our Heroes event on Aug.
relatively young and Richardson plans CEO Stuart Archer (1998) was recog- 26. The three were selected for their
to grow the program. nized as Y’s 2018 Entrepreneur of the service by a committee which chose
He and his wife Jenny have two Year in the Health category for the Heroes of the Year from 15 nominees
daughters, Sydney, a sixth grader, and southwest region. The program is a representing active law enforcement,
Luca, a kindergartner. prestigious business awards program active firefighters, and active military.
* * * for entrepreneurs. Archer was chosen McDonnell is an 11-year veteran of
from an independent panel of judges the Sheriff’s Office currently assigned
including leaders from business, to the U.S. Marshal’s Fugitive Task
finance and the local community. Force. In the past year, he has par-
TPG client Oceans Healthcare is ticipated in the apprehension of 52
a nationally recognized provider of wanted murderers, eight escapees,
behavioral health services, treating seven kidnappers, and 39 armed rob-
patients experiencing symptoms bers.
of depression, anxiety, schizophre- * * *
nia, behavioral changes related to Ville Platte native Travis Fontenot
medication management or sub- (2008) was hired as executive direc-
Lisa Lukowski Wiggins (1990) was stance abuse and other behavioral tor of The Dixie Center for the Arts in
named the 2018 H. Norman Saurage issues.  Oceans Healthcare offers Ruston. Fontenot earned a bachelor’s
III Service Award winner, an honor inpatient behavioral services as well degree in theatre performance and
that recognizes a public school teach- as intensive outpatient services. directing at Northwestern and spent
er who has not only demonstrated Archer worked as a nurse’s aide in eight years at Pine Prairie High School
outstanding instructional skills, but a skilled nursing facility and rec- as coordinator of the theatre pro-
has made an exceptional personal ognized the struggles that many gram. He earned a master’s degree
contribution outside of the classroom patients endured when managing in arts administration from Louisiana
to student enrichment, professional their illnesses, specifically older adults Tech this past spring and was hired
leadership or community service. and seniors.  He served as senior vice from among 15 applicants. Fontenot,
Wiggins was honored at the Cecil president of market development for 32, will begin his new theatrical
J. Picard Educator Excellence Awards LHC Group and chief operating officer endeavor this fall following a summer
Gala July 27. at LifeCare Management Services internship in Williamstown, Massa-
“The Saurage family’s support for prior to becoming Chairman and CEO chusetts, as apprentice coordinator
educators and students continues to of Oceans Healthcare. for the Williamstown Theatre Festival.
bless our children across the country,” * * *
5 FALL 2018
Alumni News
Honorees will be recognized at Miss Louisiana Holli Conway promotes
Alpha 45th Reunion confidence and encouragement
Holli’ Conway of Monroe,
a 2016 graduate of North-
western State, was crowned
Miss Louisiana June 23 and
represented the state in the
Miss America pageant Sept.
9, which was also Conway’s
Mrs. Hampton Gwendolyn Kimble Carisma Ramsey birthday.
Williams Fields The Miss Louisiana competi-
tion featured 33 women from
all over the state, including
four others with NSU connections. Conway competed as
Miss Heart of Pilot. Current student Miss Slidell Jordan Wad-
dell of Slidell was fourth runner-up. Miss Northwestern Lady
of the Bracelet Aly Jacobs of Houston and Miss Taste of the
Twin Cities Hannah Teutsch, a 2017 NSU graduate, were top
10 finalists. Miss Cenla Htet Htet Rodgers of Alexandria also
Ashani Bennett Matthew Miles
competed. Conway also won the Talent Competition singing
“I Believe” by Fantasia.
At the upcoming NSU Homecoming Weekend in Oc-
As an NSU student, Conway was a track and field student-
tober, former campus chapter members of Alpha Kappa
athlete and majored in theatre with an emphasis in musical
Alpha Sorority, Inc.® and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.®
theatre. Until four years ago, she had never competed in a
will honor individuals who have continued to serve their
pageant. She first competed in and won Miss Taste of the
organizations after graduation.
Twin Cities in 2015. As Miss Heart of Pilot in 2016, she was
In 1973, both organizations were chartered on the
first runner-up at Miss Louisiana.
campus of Northwestern State University with the guid-
Conway has been employed as a playlist production vo-
ance of their graduate advisors Mrs. Lueburda Jamison
calist for Carnival cruise lines.
Myers and Mr. Hampton Williams. To that cause, the
Her platform is Inspihigher, which promotes confidence,
undergraduate and alumni members will celebrate
self-love and encouraging others.
their 45th Anniversary at NSU Homecoming, October 26
As of press time, Conway was preparing for the Miss
through 28, 2018.
America pageant, scheduled to take place in in Atlantic City,
On Friday, festivities will kick-off with the NSU Home-
New Jersey, on Sept. 9.
coming Parade and pep rally followed by a Gala Banquet
at the Student Union Ballroom. Banquet honorees are
alumni members Ms. Gwendolyn Kimble, currently serv-
Phi Mu celebrating 50th anniversary
ing as South Central representative for the International
Technology Committee; Ms. Carisma Ramsey Fields,
Chairman of the International Communication Com-
mittee, and Ms. Azhani Bennett, representative for the
International Program Committee. Mrs. Leanna Williams
(surviving charter advisory spouse) will be awarded the
“Mother Singleton Award.” Matthew Miles will be recog-
nized for his service as Chapter Advisor, Louisiana Jarret
Debate Team coordinator and district planning commit-
tee member.
Phi Mu Fraternity kicked off their 50th anniversary with a
The Reunion Celebration will continue Saturday morn-
reunion in the spring.  The 50th anniversary celebration
ing with the recognition of charter members, current
continues during Homecoming festivities Oct. 27 begin-
and former graduate chapter presidents and graduate
ning with a breakfast at 9:30 a.m. Saturday at Lasyone’s. The
advisors. The afternoon activities will feature the Alpha
group will tailgate from 3-6 p.m. and is planning a group
tailgate, Homecoming game, Black Alumni Alliance After
picture at 5 p.m. Those who plan to attend should RSVP
Party and culminate with a church service on Sunday at
for all events by Oct. 25. T-shirt orders, payment and more
the Wesley Foundation.
details will be available on Facebook or by emailing PhiMu-
Any former members interested in participating in the
[email protected].  Readying for the event
reunion should contact Nancy Perry for the AKA Alumni
are, from left, Emilie King, Kelli Oertling, Liz Swacker, Kristin
[email protected] or Alpha Phi Alpha register
Kocian, Emilyn Horton, Joy Moreau, Karen Thompson, Gina
at WWW.NSUTHETACHIALUMNI.COM or contact Ricky
Bloodsworth and Angelique Freel.
Larvadain [email protected].
66 FFAALLLL 22001188
Campus News
NSU First Lady kicks off 2nd year of Forks Up for Literacy service project
Northwestern State University’s First that were distributed to schools and
Lady Jennifer Maggio will be collect- youth centers throughout the region.
ing art supplies for classrooms as the The number far surpassed her original
second year of her service initiative, goal of 1,884, which corresponds to
Forks Up for Literacy, begins. the year of NSU’s founding.
“Teachers use artwork to help teach Maggio is also networking with the
language arts, so we are looking for first ladies at other institutions in the
things like finger paints, washable University of Louisiana System and
paints, pipe cleaners, craft sticks, paint hopes to incorporate service initiatives
brushes and art smocks,” she said. on Saturdays that NSU hosts Gram-
Maggio will again have a collection bling, Nicholls and McNeese for home
site at Collins Pavilion during tailgat- games.
ing on NSU home football game days Maggio began the Forks Up for Lit-
with help from Purple Jackets honor eracy last year in conjunction with the
society, the Alpha Beta Alpha library investiture of her husband, Dr. Chris
club and other volunteers. Donors Maggio, as NSU’s 19th president. Her
can bring items to the tailgate prior to focus on service has been an intrinsic
Jennifer Maggio and Melanie Maggio
home football games and drop them part of life, continuing from her years
off at the Pavilion. as a teacher and school administrator. in the community.
Since last September, Maggio col- As first lady she has actively engaged For more information on Forks Up
lected about 5,000 books for the Forks with student groups and others to for Literacy, contact Maggio at
Up for Literacy children’s book drive encourage them to assist with needs [email protected].
Department seeks to create a professorship for
former state poet laureate
A portion of the return generated by ems, published in 2014 by White Violet
the endowment each year will be used Press. Her fifth collection, “Mothers of
to fund classroom instruction, faculty Ireland,” will be published by the LSU
research, purchase needed software Press in 2020 in their Southern Mes-
and hardware and cover needed senger Poetry Series.
travel to professional conferences. The She was a 2016 Best American
remainder will be used to increase the Poetry selection and a finalist for one
Northwestern State University’s De- endowment. of the major prizes in American poetry,
partment of English, Foreign Languag- “Dr. Kane was a highly regarded The Poets’ Prize for the Best Collection
es and Cultural Studies has started professor to NSU students and a of American Poetry. Kane was a judge
a fundraising campaign to create an professional of the highest order to for the 2005 National Book Award in
endowed professorship named for her faculty colleagues,” said Mischler. Poetry. Northwestern State honored
former faculty member Dr. Julie Kane. “Her teaching, writing and service for her with the 2004 Mildred Hart Bailey
According to Department Head Jim advancing poetry and the arts were, Research Award and the 2014 Excel-
Mischler, the goal is to raise $80,000, and are, a great service to our depart- lence in Teaching Award. She served as
which would be matched with $20,000 ment, the university, Louisiana and advisor for Argus, Northwestern State’s
from the Board of Regents Support the world. We are pleased to recognize award-winning literary magazine.
Fund to create a permanent $100,000 her outstanding artistic and scholarly Kane retired from Northwestern
endowed professorship. accomplishments through the Dr. Julie State in 2016 and continues an active
“I am so deeply moved and honored Kane Endowed Professorship.” schedule of writing, teaching and
by this news,” said Kane. “It is especially Kane was Louisiana poet laureate poetry readings. Earlier this year, she
gratifying to know that the endowed from 2011-13. Her latest book is “Paper joined the faculty of Western Colorado
professorship position is going to Bullets.” She won the Donald Justice State University’s low residency MFA
benefit the faculty members of the Poetry Prize for “Jazz Funeral.” A former program.
department I worked in for many Fulbright Scholar, Kane was a winner
years. They work so hard, and this is of the National Poetry Series Open To contribute to the professorship
something that will give them support Competition for her book “Rhythm & go to english.nsula.edu/donate. For
for their research and scholarship, on a Booze.” Her other books include “Paper more information, call [phone].
rotating basis.” Bullets,” a collection of humorous po-
7 FALL 2018
s
day, Oct. 27th – Homecoming Alumni Breakfast and Bingo @ Collins Pavilion – Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority mentoring workshop @ Student Union - Room 321 – N Club Hall of Fame Induction @ Prather Coliseum – College of Business and Technology Outstanding Business Awards & Reception @ Russell Hall - Natchitoches Room – Black Alumni Alliance Business Meeting @ Student Union - Cane River Room – Luncheon for Past Homecoming Kings and Queen & Mr. & Mrs. NSU @ Student Union - Ballroom – Sigma Tau Gamma Reunion Luncheon @ Student Union - President’s Room – Gallaspy College of Education and Human Development Reunion @ Teacher Education Commons Area – Alphas & AKAs Group Photo @ Student Union Front Entrance – Hall of Distinguished Educators Induction Ceremony @ Teacher Education Auditorium - Pod A – Tailgating Activities @ Collins Pavilion and Donald’s Demon Alley and Practice Field – NSU BAA Alumni Picnic & Tailgate @ Practice Field – Demon Regiment Open House and Tailgate @ James A. Noe Military Science Building – Pregame Activities @ Turpin Stadium – Distinguished Educators/Business Hall of Distinguished Honors recognized on field – Northwestern State vs. Houston Baptist @ Turpin Stadium – Halftime Ceremonies @ Turpin Stadium – NSU BAA After Party @ Natchitoches Country Club ents, times and locations are subject to change *****
Satur 9:00 am 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 5:30 pm 5:45 pm 6:00 pm 7:30 pm 10:00 pm Ev*****
n
o
ay, Oct. 25th J. Walter Porter Forum @ David Morgan Room (Room 107) – Russell Hall NSU BAA Alumni Mixer @ Chateau St. Denis ( 751 2nd Street) Oct. 26th Alumni Association Board Meeting @ Student Union - Cane River Room NSU Foundation Board Meeting @ Caspari Hall Conference Room - 3rd Floor Homecoming Golf Tournament @ NSU Rec Complex NSU BAA - Life Lessons with Laughter & Love featuring the Al Rucker Show @ Student Union - Ballroom Alumni Art Exhibit : Woodworking with Mike Wilson @ Orville Hanchey Gallery Homecoming Parade Pep Rally Rockin’ on the Riverbank Homecoming Festival the Downtown Riverbank Alumni Jazz Orchestra Concert @ Alumni Plaza NSU BAA Diamond Life Greek Show @ A.A. Fredericks Auditorium 1988 and 1998 Football Reunion @ Chateau St. Denis Homecoming Awards during Rockin’ on the Riverbank AKA/ Alpha Reunion Gala @ Student Union - Ballroom Downtown by Decades: Graduates will meet up downtown at specific locations by graduation year. 50s & 60s - Pioneer Pub 70s - Merci Beaucoup (restaurant) 80s - Merci Beaucoup (backroom) 90s - Bon Ami (above The Landing) 2000s - Mama’s Blues Room 2010s - Maglieaux’s NSU BAA Diamond Life After Party @ The Edge
d – – y, – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –
urs M m da m am m m m m m m m m m pm
h 0 A 0 p ri 0 a 00 0 p 0 p 0 p 0 p 0 p 0 p 0 p 0 p 0 p 00
T 9:3 6:0 F 9:0 11: 1:0 5:0 5:3 6:0 6:3 7:0 7:3 8:0 8:3 10:
8 FALL 2018