Alumni Columns (Volume Spring 2019)

2019·21.6 MB·English

by  Northwestern State University

SPRING 2019
Northwestern State University Magazine
Messages Alumni Columns
Official Publication of
Northwestern State University
Natchitoches, Louisiana
Organized in 1884
A member of CASE
Volume XXIX Number 1 Spring 2019
The Alumni Columns (USPS 015480) is published
Dear Alumni: by Northwestern State University,
Natchitoches, Louisiana, 71497-0002
Periodicals Postage Paid at Natchitoches, La.,
In case you haven’t already heard, Northwestern
and at additional mailing offices.
State has exciting news to share. A study released a few POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the
Alumni Columns, Northwestern State University,
weeks ago revealed that NSU had an economic impact
Natchitoches, La. 71497-0002.
of $428.2 million on the university’s 10-parish service Alumni Office Phone: [phone] and 888-799-6486
area, which includes Bossier, Caddo, DeSoto, Grant, FAX: [phone] • E-mail: [email protected]
Natchitoches, Rapides, Red River, Sabine, Vernon and NSU ALUMNI OFFICERS
Dr. Chris Maggio Winn parishes. This represents 1.4 percent of the region’s President ..................................W. Lane Luckie, Tyler, Texas, 2008
1st Vice President ......Patricia Hrapmann, New Orleans, 1973, 1978
1985, 1991 gross regional product. 2nd Vice President ......................David Stamey, Natchitoches, 1982
President The study was part of a state-wide economic impact Secretary .............................Virginia Monceret, New Roads, 2001
Northwestern State Treasurer ...........................Nikki Ceaser Small, Dallas, Texas, 200
University analysis conducted for the University of Louisiana sys-
tem that concluded at NSU and the eight other schools EX OFFICIO MEMBERS
NSU President ..................................Dr. Chris Maggio, 1985, 1991
in the system contributed $10.9 billion to the state’s Vice President for External Affairs ....................Jerry Pierce, 1961
economy in 2017-18. Assistant Vice President of External Affairs
for University Advancement ................Drake Owens, 2004, 2005
The ongoing daily impact of Northwestern’s economic
contributions to the economic stability in this region BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Dr. P. Cade Brumley ..........................................New Orleans, 2002
is extraordinary. The creation and support of jobs and Jerry Brungart .........................................Natchitoches, 1969, 1971
businesses, enhancement of the workforce and quality Tommy Chester .................................................Natchitoches, 1969
Monty Chicola ................................................Natchitoches, 1979, 1980
of life in the area, the attraction of thousands of visitors Caron Chester Coleman ...................................Natchitoches, 2000
Shade Dufrene ................................................Baton Rouge, 1999, 2003
and spending by students, university personnel and
Leonard Endris ...........................................Shreveport, 1974, 1975
alumni are at the heart of our regional economy. Allen Evans ............................................................Shreveport, 1989
John Evans ..........................................................Natchitoches, 1992
The role our alumni play in the growth of Northwest-
Dr. Hayward Hargrove ......................Black Mountain, N.C., 1964
ern State cannot be overstated. It is because of your Trey Hill ....................................................................Carencro, 1985
Carlos Jones .............................................Round Rock, Texas, 1993
gifts, your service and your participation that we con-
Gail Jones ..........................................................Natchez, 1981, 1998
tinue to be able to attract and retain more students and Matt Koury ................................................................Leesville, 1995
Bryant Lewis .........................................................Haynesville, 1958
support our faculty in academic endeavors. Dr. Lisa Landry Mathews ....................................Shreveport, 1992
Thank you for all you do for Northwestern State Uni- Kim Martin.........................................................Lake Charles, 1988
Leah Sherman Middlebrook .............................Dallas, 1986, 2016
versity. Virginia Monceret ................................................New Roads, 2001
Kip Patrick ...................................................Washington, DC, 1995
Cliff Poimboeuf .....................................................Shreveport, 1984
Michael Prudhomme ................................................Natchez, 1984
Joseph W. Schelette ...............................................Shreveport, 1969
Nikki Ceaser Small ............................................Dallas, Texas, 2007
Mark Spikes ..............................................League City, Texas, 1991
David Stamey .....................................................Natchitoches, 1982
Joseph B. Stamey ................................................Natchitoches, 1983
Dear Alumni:
Glenn Talbert ........................................................Shreveport, 1964
Taylor Townsend ...............................................Natchitoches, 1986
Carlos Treadway .............................................Northville, MI, 1992
By the time you read this, we will be in the full swing Marti Vienne ......................................................Natchitoches, 1982
of spring activities and planning to celebrate another Jim Villard .............................................................Alexandria, 1983
Dr. Leonard Williams ........................................New Orleans, 1993
graduating class on May 10. This semester has been an
exceptionally positive one as the university continues to STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE
Jacob Ellis ....................................................Athens, SGA President
grow in the number of people we serve, the programs and
services we offer and the lives we impact. Publisher .................................................Drake Owens, 2004, 2005
Drake Owens Editor ..........................................Leah Pilcher Jackson, 1994, 2011
2004, 2005 The “By the Numbers” page in this edition places a Contributors ....................................................................David West
Doug Ireland, 1986
Assistant Vice strong focus on NSU’s economic impact, but beneath
Matthew Vines, 2016
President of External those numbers are people who were affected by our uni- Christopher Little
Affairs for University Photography ..............................................Chris Reich, 2007, 2009
versity: students, families, business owners, philanthropy
Advancement Gary Hardamon
groups and others. It is encouraging to know that NSU is Josh McDaniel
Design/Layout ..................................Beth McPherson Mann, 1975
serving a greater good, not only through education, but
Northwestern State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and
by improving the economy and creating a better quality
Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, specialists,
of life in Louisiana. 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
I hope you will join us by engaging in some of the up- of Northwestern State University.
coming alumni events that are listed on the back cover of Northwestern State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender,
religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, age, pregnancy
the magazine and take a moment to read about two new
or parenting status, and veteran or retirement status in its programs and activities and
members of our staff on page 2. If there is any way we can 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
help you become more involved your alma mater, we will policies (i.e., Title IX): Employees/Potential Employees – Veronica M. Biscoe, EEO Officer
(318-357-6359); Students – Frances Conine, Dean of Students (318-357-5286). For Ameri-
be happy to help.
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
NSU’s campus security and crime statistics can be found at http://universitypolice.nsula.
edu/annual-security-report/. Full disclosure statement: http://universityplanning.nsula.
edu/notice-of-non-discrimination.
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This public document was published at a total cost of $19,972.57. 50,500 copies of this public document were published
in this first printing at a cost of $19,972.57. The total cost of all printings of this document, including reprints is $19,972.57.
This document was published by Northwestern State University Office of University Advancement and printed by Cenveo
Worldwide Limited, 200 First Stamford Place, Stamford, CT 06902 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 SPRING 2019
Alumni News
Cobb, Jaworski join Alumni & Development staff
Northwestern State University and Merle Antoon, and my brother recruiting members for the Alumni
welcome two new staff members to Michael were graduates of NSU. I also Association and planning Alumni events
the Office of Alumni and Development. met my husband at NSU. We have been such as the Alumni After Hours, Long
Danielle Antoon Cobb is the new Demons all of our lives and I am so excited Purple Line, Golden Jubilee and the
associate director of Development. Mae to begin working to help future genera- Alumni Tailgates at sporting events.
Jaworski is the new associate director of tions experience the great things we offer Jaworski graduated from Natchitoches
Alumni Affairs. here at NSU.” Central High School and earned a degree
Cobb’s primarily endeavors will be in The NSU Foundation works closely with in social sciences at Northwestern in 2011.
fund raising, networking and planning individual donors and companies to After teaching at the elementary level
events to engage donors and for several years, Jaworski joined
community partners in support- the staff at Northwestern to help
ing the university and working “bring people back to NSU to get
closely with the Alumni Associa- them engaged with the wonderful
tion. things that are happening here.”
Cobb is a Natchitoches native “Many alumni no longer live in
who earned a degree in hospital- Natchitoches and my job is to help
ity management and tourism connect them with their experi-
with a minor in business at NSU ences here at NSU. Once they feel
in 2010. As a student, she was a part of the University again, they
involved with Sigma Sigma Sigma will feel more inclined to give back
Sorority, Student Activities Board, to help see NSU continue to flour-
Honor Court and was a Freshman ish. That can be shown in multiple
Connector. ways such as supporting different
Prior to her appointment at NSU, she help cultivate and solicit major gifts, she events, volunteering or through monetary
served for five years as senior community added. donations.”
development manager for the American “Receiving scholarships is crucial to a lot “When students see alumni giving back
Cancer Society. She has also been a com- of our students in order for them to fulfill through their time and/or resources, they
munity liaison for Hospice of Natchitoches their educational goals and I am humbled are inclined to do the same,” she added.
and is currently the Natchitoches Kiwanis to be able to help make those dreams be- Jaworski can be reached at (318) 357-
Club’s New Member of the Year and an come a reality for so many of our students 4292 or [email protected].
officer. here at NSU.” Information on the NSU Foundation
“I am extremely excited about my new Cobb can be reached at [phone] and projects coordinated through Alumni
role at Northwestern State University,” or at [email protected]. Affairs is available at northwesternalumni.
Cobb said. “Both of my parents, Johnny Jaworski’s efforts will be focused on com.
U.S. Army Veteran Poole recognized
Dan Poole of Natchitoches, who was a member of the mile relay for the
served as an Army engineer during track team. 
the 1950s in the Army of Occupation  After his honorable discharge from
in Southern Germany, was recognized the Army, Poole returned home and
during Northwestern State University’s worked for the Natchitoches Parish
basketball game Feb. 16. NSU Presi- School Board until retirement.  He
dent Dr. Chris Maggio offered con- then taught at St. Mary’s High School,
gratulations. Jasper (Texas) High School, Lakeview
Prior to his enlistment, Poole gradu- High School in Campti and as an ad-
ated from Northwestern State College junct for NSU’s Department of Math-
with a Bachelor of Science in health ematics.
& physical education and a minor in  Poole has been a long-time sup-
mathematics.  While at NSC, he played porter of Demon athletics and kept the since before any records were kept.   
four years of football under Coach official clock for NSU Basketball from In 2017, the Poole family, who have
Harry “Rags” Turpin and three years of 1965–1990. He also worked many NSU deep ties to NSU, created the Dan
basketball under Coach H. Lee Prather.  track meets at Clerk of Course and has and Nelwyn Poole Scholarship for a
He also ran hurdles, high jumped and been a Demon season ticket holder student-athlete. 
2 SPRING 2019
Alumni News
Tyler Price finds his footing in the spotlight, success on stage
Graduates of Northwestern State
University’s Department of Theatre
and Dance are making a splash far
afield with Tyler Price (2016) and
Marion Bienvenu (2012) starring in a
recent production of “Little Women:
The Musical” presented by Thing-
amajig Theatre at the Pagosa Springs
[Colorado] Center for the Arts this past
January, a show that drew rave reviews
in the local press.
Bienvenu, a Baton Rouge native,
took on the lead role as Jo March. Price
played John Brooke, the love interest
of Meg March.
According to Tim Moore, producing
artistic director of the Pagosa Center
Theatre, “We LOVE NSU students. Over
the years, we’ve used Ryan Hazelbaker,
director/choreographer; Taylor Marrs,
costumer/actor/fund raising coordi-
nator; Marion Bienvenu, actor; Alisha
Munds, actor, and Tyler Price, actor/ and directed several numbers of the frontier and I’m happy to see that in
director/youth camp director.” Whatchamawhozits Children’s Theatre Pagosa Springs.”
Price, a New Orleans native, has Camp productions including “Annie Jr” Dream roles he would like to pursue
been working full-time since gradu- and “Mission Moo Shu,” which he also include Dan in “Next to Normal,” Coal-
ation and said that though acting is wrote. house Walker in “Ragtime” and Beast in
not easy, it is very fulfilling work. He “I learned so much at NSU,” Price “Beauty in the Beast.”
worked at Cedar Point Amusement said. “Pia Wyatt [professor of Theatre Price’s current show, Prather Produc-
Park after graduation and with Thing- and Dance] has been a huge mentor tions’ “Joseph and the Amazing Tech-
amajig the last two summers and the throughout my career. She’s always nicolor Dreamcoat” will run through
2018 winter season. pushing me to go further and work May 4 at the Dutch Apple Dinner The-
“Working with Thingamajig Theatre harder while congratulating me on atre in Lancaster. Ticket information is
Company changed my life! NSU has a what I’m currently doing. She’s always available at dutchapple.com.
great reputation up there because it checking in with me and giving me
is a family environment and that’s ex- advice to this day. I know that she’s
actly what the NSU Theatre and Dance a phone call away at all times. She’s
environment was,” he said.  really kept that educator relationship
Price still lives in New Orleans but that was established at NSU. She’s
between contracts, he doesn’t spend like the theatre mom I never had. The
more than a few weeks a year at home entire faculty is so encouraging and
and plans to move to New York City I’m a very proud alum of Northwestern
after his next two contracts. State.”
In March, he traveled to Lancaster, Price got involved in theatre upon
Pennsylvania, to perform as Judah in the recommendation of a social work-
“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor er following the death of his mother at
Dreamcoat.” He will then head to Nap- age 9. He pursued theatre as a career
panee, Indiana to perform in “Freaky following his involvement with the Jef-
Friday” and later play one of his dream ferson Performing Arts Society where
roles, Jim in “Big River.” Among his he worked back stage and met travel-
other favorite roles are Eddie in “Sister ing actors who offered career advice
Act,” John Brooke in “Little Women,” and encouragement.
and his NSU roles as the title character Commenting on his role in “Little
in “Sweeney Todd” and Papageno in Women,” Price complimented Moore
Mozart’s “The Magic Flute.” He has had on casting him in the role.
notable roles in “Hairspray” and “Aida” “Colorblind casting is the new Price, right, as Jim in “Big River”
Photos courtesy of Thingamajig Theatre Company
3 SPRING 2019
Alumni News
Spotlights
Danielle Mack, CFRE, was among tion history, revolutions, andria. Smith teaches ninth grade civ-
those honored when the Baton Rouge cartographic history and ics and Advanced Placement govern-
Association of Fundraising Profession- the history of explora- ment and politics educating students
als celebrated National Philanthropy tion and discovery. His about Americanism and patriotism.
Day to honor philanthropists, volun- research involves history Among the many examples of his
teers and fund raising professionals. of cartography, ethno- dedication, he cooks for a tailgate on
Mack is senior development director history, foodways, colo- Robert Friday nights for neighborhood kids
at Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center and nialism and imperialism and sponsors the Freshman Academy,
Caldwell
was named Outstanding Professional and Native American which tracks students’ progress and
Fundraiser. and Indigenous studies. provides interventions to stay on the
Mack graduated from NSU in 2003 Caldwell defended his doctoral path to graduation. Smith also spon-
with a degree in journalism with a dissertation entitled “Indians in their sors the Youth Volunteer Corps, which
concentration on public relations. Proper Place: Culture Areas, Linguistic motivates at-risk children to become
At Mary Bird Perkins, Mack leads Stocks, and the Genealogy of a Map” in involved in the community through
a team that advances support from August 2018. The dissertation explores service projects. He also finds time to
corporate and foundation partners 150 years of thematic maps of Ameri- work with the Bolton soccer team as a
throughout southeast Louisiana and can Indian homelands, languages and goalie coach.
provides guidance to donor relations, culture. Caldwell was a 2011 graduate
prospect management, research and of the master’s program in Heritage The University of North Georgia
stewardship while acknowledging Resources at NSU.  Since completing Convocation Center’s Dean Hyams
donor generosity and gift impact. his doctoral thesis, he has worked as Terrace was named in appreciation of
Mack has also worked at the LSU a postgraduate research fellow for Henry Michael Hyams Jr. for 28 years
Foundation and Baylor College of UTA, and in September was awarded of unwavering service to the univer-
Medicine in Houston where she led the prestigious fellowship in the Royal sity, its students and the Dahlonega
fundraising and stewardship campaign Geographic Society. community. Over this career, Hyams
events, securing multiple major gifts (1962, 1971) served as dean of stu-
resulting in 95 percent growth. Dr. Renae Myles (2000) was recog- dents and later as vice president of
Mack is an active volunteer in the Ba- nized by the NCAA for her leadership Student Affairs. Throughout his career,
ton Rouge community and has served development, particularly as a minor- Hyams was known as a mentor, leader,
on the board of several community ity who has broken barriers in the teacher and surrogate parent earning
organizations. She is a graduate of the athletic field. The NCAA produced a the moniker “Coach.”
Baton Rouge Area Chamber’s Class of video package profiling Myles and her Hyams has been a strong sup-
2014 Leadership Class and was recipi- achievements: https://drive.google. port of UNG athletics and instituted
ent of the 2012 Brother Donnan Berry com/file/d/1RCLnFA8Nep1VeUJZq6Xn a leadership award and scholarship
Award for Chapter Service presented 9fFhP3fJFk3i/view. annually presented in his honor. As a
by the Baton Rouge Chapter of Asso- Myles is the senior associate athletic retired U.S. Army Colonel and Vietnam
ciation Fundraising Professionals. She director, chief operating officer and se- veteran, Hyams brought a wealth of
unofficially mentors other young fun- nior women administrator at Winthrop military experience and knowledge to
draising professionals in the industry University in Rock Hill, South Carolina. the university.
and is a sounding board for many AFP She earned her undergraduate degree The Dean Hyams Terrace represents
colleagues. as a student-athlete at the University the distinguished and unselfish service
A self-proclaimed foodie, Mack of Southern Mississippi. that characterized Hyams’ dedication,
enjoys Asian and southern cuisine leadership and generosity to the Uni-
and trying new recipes. In her free Randy Smith versity of North Georgia.
time, she enjoys traveling and spend- (2007) was named
ing time with her husband James and the Veterans of For- Lamark Carter (2004) was named
daughter Autumn. eign Wars Louisiana cross country and track and field head
High School Teacher coach at Wiley College in February. He
Robert B. Caldwell Jr. of Many (MA of the Year. The will coach both men’s and womens’
2011) completed his Ph.D. with a 4.0 in Bolton High School Wildcats teams. This will be Carter’s
coursework from the University of Tex- educator was recog- first head coaching job at the college
Randy Smith
as in Arlington. He recently completed nized at a statewide level, having been head coach at Byrd
the doctorate in transatlantic history conference of veterans in January after High School in Shreveport.
with comprehensive fields of migra- being nominated by Post 1736 of Alex- Carter participated in the 2000
Continued on page 5
4 SPRING 2019
Alumni News
Nominations open for Hall of Distinguished Educators
Northwestern State University’s Gallaspy College of Education and Human Development Alumni Advisory Board is
seeking nominations for the Hall of Distinguished Educators for 2019.
Nominees must have earned an undergraduate, graduate or doctoral degree from an NSU teacher preparation
program, have at least 30 years experience and must have made significant contributions to the field of education
and/or the larger community at a local, state, national or international level. Nominees can be living or deceased.
Nominations are also open for Distinguished Young Professional in Education, an award that recognizes an
outstanding young professional who has made contributions in Pre-K through higher education or to the profes-
sion of education through teaching, research or community service. Nominees must be 40 years old or younger,
have at least 10 years of meritorious service to education and gained prominence in some areas of teaching,
administrative achievement, contributions to research, leadership in professional associations, contributions to
professional literature and outstanding community service. Nominees should be of high moral character whose
contributions have most fully expressed the spirit of service the award represents.
Inductees will be honored during a brunch and induction ceremony at the Teacher Education Center during
Homecoming festivities.
The deadline to submit nominations is July 26.
Anyone who would like to nominate an outstanding College of Education alumnus who has had a distinguished
career in education should send the nominee’s resume and other documentation outlining the reason for the
nomination to NSU Gallaspy College of Education and Human Development, Northwestern State University,
Natchitoches, LA 71497.
Nomination forms and additional information are available by calling [phone].
Spotlights continued from page 4
Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia. in the field of computer information Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame museum
As an NSU student, he was a silver systems. Real Vision Software develops during and after his term (1998-2000)
medalist in the 1999 International image processing software to be sold as the LSWA president. A 1976 NSU
Associates of Athletes World Indoor as an IBM product and co-develops graduate who worked in the sports
Championships as well as the Pan hardware projects with IBM Rochester. information office and was sports
American Games. He has won three editor of the student newspaper The
national championships at the USA Sportswriter Current Sauce, he has over 40 years of
Outdoor Track and Field Champion- Philip Timothy, sports writing and editing expertise to
ship. a Northwestern his credit.
Wiley College is a four-year private State graduate The Distinguished Service Award in
historically black liberal arts college in and former Natchi- Sports Journalism is the most presti-
Marshall, Texas. toches Times sports gious honor offered to sports media in
editor, has been the state.
Colten Kennedy, who graduated selected for the For more than four decades, Timo-
in December 2018 in NSU’s Computer 2019 Distinguished thy has crisscrossed the state cover-
Philip Timothy
Information Systems program, landed Service Award in ing sports with accomplishment and
a job at IBM in Baton Rouge after an Sports Journalism distinctive style at all levels, and along
internship with Real Vision Software from the Louisiana Sports Writers As- the way he has also served as mentor
where he learned how to code in sociation, and will be inducted in the to dozens of current and former sports
Javascript. Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame June 8. writers. His LSWA leadership was a
Kennedy’s accomplishments were Timothy, who has won national, pivotal factor in gaining and main-
lauded by Monty Chicola (1980), regional and state awards as a writer taining traction that resulted in the
president of Real Vision Software, who and editor, was greatly influential in long-awaited museum construction a
hopes to develop more NSU talent the early stages of developing the decade later.
5 SPRING 2019
Alumni News
Five inducted into Long Purple Line, Alumni Hall of Distinction
Northwestern State University inducted five distinguished individuals into the Long Purple Line, the university’s alumni hall of distinction, during a
luncheon, induction program and unveiling of portraits in the Sylvan Friedman Student Union Ballroom March 22. Since 1990, 130 NSU alumni have
been named to the Long Purple Line based on personal and/or professional achievements and service to their communities and to Northwestern State.
Honored this year were, from left, Stewart Ewing of Monroe, Luther “Buddy” Lott of Natchitoches, Billy Montgomery of Haughton, Pat Pierson of Natchi-
toches and Tommy Wright of Houston. Information on the Long Purple Line and past inductees can be found at nsutraditions.com/the-collections.
Northwestern State University honored phy. He was a leader in ensuring that Demons Unlimited Foundation. In
five alumni by inducting them into the CenturyLink headquarters remained in 2017, he and his family established the
University’s alumni hall of distinction, Monroe. Luther W. Lott, Sr. Memorial Scholar-
Ewing earned a bachelor’s in busi- ship, an endowed four-year scholar-
the Long Purple Line. The 2019 inductees
ness at NSU in 1973. He received an ship through the NSU Foundation.
are Stewart Ewing of Monroe, Luther
Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters Through his leadership Lott Oil is a
W. “Buddy” Lott and Patricia Pierson
from NSU in 2017. Ewing is a member long-time supporter of numerous
of Natchitoches, Billy Montgomery of
of the NSU College of Business Hall of charitable organizations.
Haughton and Thomas M. Wright of
Fame and is a member of the Board of Montgomery has had successful
Houston. Directors of the Louisiana Endowment careers as a coach, educator and in
Since 1990, 130 NSU alumni have for the Humanities. politics. He served for 20 years in the
been named to the Long Purple Line. Lott became president of Lott Oil Louisiana House of Representatives
Ewing served as executive vice Company in 1979 and has helped from 1988 to 2008. Montgomery has
president and chief financial officer for build it from a single truck and two been the Bossier Parish Police Jury’s
CenturyLink. employees to one of the region’s most project coordinator since 2008. Before
Ewing was the longest-serving chief successful petroleum distributorships. entering politics, he won more than
financial officer of all Fortune 500 com- The company delivers more than 100 300 games over 10 seasons at Haugh-
panies in the nation at his retirement. million gallons of fuel and three mil- ton and Lafayette High winning two
He joined CenturyLink in 1983 as vice lion gallons of commercial lubricants state championships. He served as
president of finance, became vice pres- to Louisiana and adjoining states. assistant principal at Haughton from
ident and controller in 1984 and senior Lott Oil was a key responder during 1970-82 and principal from 1982-88.
vice president and chief financial Hurricane Katrina, delivering the first Montgomery has been named to
officer in 1989. He was elevated to the diesel for generators to the command the Louisiana Political, Louisiana High
position of executive vice president posts set up by FEMA and the Coast School Coaches Association, Louisiana
and chief financial officer in 1999. Guard in downtown New Orleans. The High School Basketball Coaches and
Before joining Century Telephone, company remains a vital team mem- Ark-La-Tex Sports Museum’s Hall of
which later became CenturyLink, Ew- ber in disaster response planning with Fame. He was named Louisiana’s Mr.
ing was associated for 10 years with state and parish emergency services Basketball in 2009. Montgomery was
KPMG, formerly Peat Marwick & Associ- and law enforcement. recognized as One of the 10 Most In-
ates in Shreveport. Lott is a leader in his profession, fluential People in High School Sports.
Ewing has been instrumental in serving on the National Advisory The Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame
CenturyLink’s transformation from a Board for Chevron-Texaco, as vice awarded him the Dave Dixon Award
regional exchange telephone com- president of the Chevron Texaco in 2011. Montgomery was named “A
pany to a worldwide technology and Petroleum Marketers Association and Leader of the Century by the Shreve-
telecommunications company. He former president of the Louisiana Oil port Times” in 2002. He was the only
was at the forefront of CenturyLink’s Marketers and Convenience Stores individual to receive the International
acquisition strategy by negotiating all Association. He has also been involved Police Award in 1990.
stages of purchase agreements from fi- in public service and in local civic Montgomery earned a bachelor’s
nancing the acquisitions to regulatory organizations. in education in 1960 and a master’s in
issues to folding new companies into Lott is a decades-long supporter of administration and supervision at NSU
the corporate structure and philoso- Northwestern State athletics and the in 1966. He also did additional work
Continued on page 7
6 SPRING 2019
Alumni News
On the Bookshelf:

From the Dust of the Earth - Who, Me?’ by Michelle Packard Chopin
“From the Dust of the Earth – Who, Me?,” a new book by Michelle Packard Chopin, Chopin is
was written to serve as a study for reflection by individuals or small groups. The author supervisor of
developed both creative and educational writings to bring deliberate thought and operations
contemplation to the reader toward opening the window for self-evaluation, potential and develop-
change and living life to the fullest. ment with
Within 212 pages, 60 themes offer the Child
expressions of hope, dreams, realities and Nutrition
visions for the future. The author presents Program for
words for those who need help, for those Caddo Par-
who are searching, and for those who ish Schools
want confirmation. Excerpts, quotes and and serves
bible verses were specifically selected and as chairman of the Northwest Louisi-
compiled to correspond with each theme. ana Area Supervisors and Directors for
The author hopes to grasp the reader’s School Food Service. She also worked
attention, spark interest, provoke thought, for Coastal Plains Public Health District
encourage reading, and promote study. at the Biloxi Clinic and Keesler Air Force
Bible verses were studied and compared Base Medical Center providing diet
across multiple translations to benefit all therapy, nutrition education and health-
readers. care. Early in her career, she taught at
“One of my goals for this manuscript Southwood High School in Shreveport
is to create or develop an antecedent for where she later returned to teach in the
change. Learning is realized by an evident home economics department.
change in behavior, concurrently with “Although we each think differently,
a change in thinking – which I hope for, there are things on which we can be on
according to your need. To those search- one accord. My mission here is to help
ing for something, I hope these readings others, while hoping that each person
promote contemplation and provide will also help many others, possibly
encouragement and guidance. These words come through much thought, reflection toward an exponential effect.”
and thanksgiving, yet through little deliberation,” Chopin said. The book is available at Amazon.com
Chopin earned a degree in vocational home economics education at Northwestern and Barnesandnoble.com, ISBN #978-0-
State 1978 and a master’s degree in counseling from Louisiana Tech. 692-05223-5.
toward his plus 30 at NSU. gram in hospitality management and multigenerational families. He works
Pierson was successful as a coach, tourism, which has placed graduates extensively with high-net-worth
teacher and administrator at North- in positions with leading companies families, family offices and closely held
western. She earned a bachelor’s at throughout the nation. Under Pierson’s businesses. He began his career with
NSU in 1977 and master’s at NSU in leadership, the program achieved Haskins & Sells (now Deloitte USA, LLP)
1980 and a doctorate at LSU in 2001. national accreditation. in 1973 and was admitted to Deloitte
She was Northwestern State’s Pierson was a two-time recipient of as a partner in 1981. In 1985, he joined
women’s basketball coach for nine the College of Science, Technology and the Houston firm of Margolis, Phipps &
years, winning three conference titles, Business Excellence in Teaching Award Wright, P.C. He served on the Execu-
leading the Lady Demons to the finals and was selected as Academic Advi- tive Committee of Margolis, Phipps &
of the Women’s National Invitational sor of the Year at NSU. In 2015, Pierson Wright, P.C. until joining his partners
Tournament and coaching multiple was awarded the status of Department and staff members in opening the
all-conference and academic All-Amer- Head Emeritus by the College of Sci- Houston office of RSM in 2013. He is
ican players. Her 1985-86 team won 25 ence, Technology and Business. active in numerous professional orga-
games, the most in school history. She Wright is a partner in the RSM US nizations including the American In-
won more than 200 games as a colle- LLP Houston office and is a member stitute of Certified Public Accountants
giate head coach, serving five seasons of National Tax Leadership Committee and Texas Society of Certified Public
at East Carolina where she won a regu- for RSM’s Private Client Services group, Accountants and has spoken at numer-
lar season conference championship leads the PCS Practice for the Central ous seminars on subjects related to
and coach of the year honors in 1992. Region and co-leads the RSM Family taxation and tax legislation. Wright
She joined Northwestern’s faculty in Office practice. His primary expertise earned a bachelor’s in accounting at
the Department of Family and Con- is in tax matters related to tax plan- Northwestern State in 1973. He serves
sumer Sciences in 1992. Pierson later ning for family wealth preservation, on the Northwestern State University
became head of the department and wealth transfers, charitable transfers, Foundation board and is a trustee of
helped create the bachelor’s pro- closely held business enterprises and Mary R. Gallaspy Charitable Trust No. 2.
7 SPRING 2019
Northwestern State University’s third annual Flavor of Louisiana was a resounding success. The March 22 event drew about 750 guests
and raised more than $77,000 for student scholarships and academic programs. Dozens of faculty, staff and student volunteers worked for
months to plan the event, presented in partnership with the Louisiana Seafood Board, which donated Louisiana seafood that was prepared
and served by chefs from around the region. Guests were able to wander from station to station tasting a variety of delectable seafood dish-
es ranging from the exotic to traditional favorites, along with craft beers, specialty cocktails, desserts, meat options for non-seafood eaters
and more. Academic departments organized raffles and silent auctions for prize packages, gift baskets and vacation getaways with proceeds
benefiting their specific programs. Special guest Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser, a supporter of the event since its inception three years ago,
was presented with the Nth Degree for meritorious service to NSU, the city of Natchitoches and the state of Louisiana.
Chris Waddell Day of service turns tragedy into triumph
to junior high school was values-centered.
 “The same thing I’ve always preached: God first, and family.
Choose your friends wisely. Dream big. You can do anything you
imagine if you keep those values in mind,” she said, gratified at
the reactions as activities continued into the mid-afternoon.
 She wasn’t the only Waddell present. Her niece, Chris’ cousin
Jourdan Waddell, is a junior at Northwestern and participated
in her third Chris Waddell Day. Last year, she won NSU’s Miss
Lady of the Bracelet crown and was fourth runner-up in the
Miss Louisiana pageant.
 A pre-schooler when her cousin passed away from a cardiac
event due to Kawasaki Syndrome complications, Jourdan
remembers him playing with her, a gentle 300-pound offensive
guard, a giant not too proud to be on the floor surrounded by
dolls and toys.
Celeste Waddell, right, visited with students at St. Mary’s School and  “Chris was a kind-hearted person, very humble and very
their teacher, Susu Burke, left. In the background are Director of Athlet- hard working. That’s the message all kids should take away
ics Greg Burke and Jourdan Waddell. from Chris Waddell Day, is to constantly work hard and strive
for whatever it is you want to do, but at the same time, still
On the 15th anniversary of the last full day of her only son’s have fun, like he did.” 
life, Celeste Waddell was playing dodgeball in his honor. For   Waddell Day, said Laird, has themes that are valuable for
the first time since her 19-year-old died suddenly, stricken anyone, not just kids or college football players.
on the football field at Turpin Stadium at the end of a light  “First it’s about stressing education. The reason we bring our
workout on March 1, 2004, she had summoned the emotional student-athletes is because they’ve taken care of their business
strength to return to Northwestern State as the 2019 Demons in the classroom and they’re good examples to these kids.
visited local schools in the 14th Annual Chris Waddell Day. She  “But it’s also about remembering his example. Chris lived
has been back to campus, and the spot near midfield where he every day to the fullest. Too many times we get so busy and
collapsed, numerous times through the years, often leaving a forget about just having fun and living it. That’s what he did,
rose on the logo that memorializes him. from the time he was a baby and he was diagnosed with his
Surrounded by little kids in school uniforms and big college (heart) condition.   When he passed away, he was doing what
boys wearing their NSU jerseys, she was ecstatic. Before the he loved. Wouldn’t we all want to live every day, be the very
games at each of the five schools, she was introduced by NSU best we can be, and live life to the fullest?” said Laird. “That’s a
head coach Brad Laird, who was the Demons’ defensive coordi- great message not only for the kids we’re talking to, but to all
nator in 2004. Her message at each stop to children ranging up of us, and anyone, anywhere.”
8 SPRING 2019