Alumni Columns (Volume Winter 2006)

2006·1.7 MB·English

by  Northwestern State University

AlumniColumns
Dr. Randall J. Webb, 65, 66 Ot'ficialPublicationof
NorthweslcrnStateUniversity
President
Natchitoches.Louisiana
Northwestern StateUniversity Organizedin 1X84
AniemherofCASE
VolumeXVI Number4Winter2006
DearAlumni: TheAlumniColumns(USPSOI.'i4KO)ispublished4
timesayearby NorthwesternStateUniversity.
Natchitoches,Louisiana,71497-0002
The fall semesteratyouralma mater brought a greatdeal of PeriodicalsPostagePaidatNatchitoches.La.,
good newsthatbodeswellforNorthwestem. andatadditionalmailingoffices.
Inthesecondyearofselectiveadmissions,theaveragecompositeACTscoresofincom- POSTMASTER: SendaddresschangestotheAlumni
Columns. NorthwesternStateUniversity,
ingfreshmen increased to20.5. Incomingfreshmen had betterACTscores in English, read- Natchitoches.La.71497-0002.
ing, math and science. This year, the numberofentering freshman receiving TOPS (Tuition AlumniOfficePhone; 318-357-4414
and888-799-6486
Opportunity Program Scholarship)was up by6.8 percentfrom 556to596. FAX: [phone]
Graduateenrollmentwasthehighestin21 years, increasing 11.7 percentfrom 1,061 to E-mail: [email protected]
1,183 after Northwestem's Graduate Council enhanced admissions standards for graduate NSUALUMNIOFFICERS
study. We saw strong enrollment increases across the board in ourgraduate programs as President JimmyWilliams
retention exceeded 80 percentinthe majorityofthedegree plans. Alexandria, 1993
VicePresident JerryBrungart
Overall enrollment was down this semester as we anticipated, but the decrease was Natchitwhes, 1969. 1971
smallerthanexpected.Thatfactor, combinedwiththecontinual improvementinthequalityof Secretary-Treasurer. JosephB.Stamey
Natchitoches, 1983
ourstudentbody, isencouraging.Webelievethatretentionandgraduation rateswill increase ExecutiveDirector. Dr.ChrisMaggio
asstudentscometo Northwestern preparedfortherigorsofhighereducation. Natchitoches. 1985, 1991
We are optimisticthattwo building renovation projectswill begin during thisfiscal year. BOARDOFDIRECTORS
TheworkatWilliamsonHallandCaspariHallwillgiveustwomodernbuildingstobetterserve DaneBroussard Houston,Texas, 1986
Jerry Brungart Natchitoches, 1969, 1971
ourstudents. TommyChester Arcadia, 1969
Williamson Hall will also receive an extemal facelift, which will dramaticallychange the LeonardEndris Shrcveport, 1974. 1975
exteriorlookofthebuildingandmakeitcloselyresemblesomeoftheolderbuildingsoncam- APadtrriiacinaHWoiwgagrindsHrapmann ArDleisntgrteohna,n.Te1x9a7s3.. 11997889
pussuch as Russell Hall. GailJones Natchez. 1981. 1998
The new wing of Caspari Hall will be renovated to provide additional convenience for Matt Koury Leesville. 1995
BryantLewis Hayncsville. 1958
prospectiveandcurrentstudents.TheRegistrar'sandAdmissionsofficealongwithUniversity Carroll Long Tyler.Texas. 1970
RecruitingandFinancialAidwillbeinthesamefacility,cuttingdownonthetimestudentshave Dr. LisaMathews Benton. 1992
tospend goingaround campustoconductbusiness. DavidMorgan Austin.Texas. 1973
KipPatrick Shreveport. 1995
These projects along with the newAlumni Plaza will make our Natchitoches campus Joseph B.Stamey Natchitoches. 1983
even moreappealingtothosewhouseourcampuseachdayorvisitwith us. GlennTalbert Shreveport. 1964
RickyWalmsley Covington. 1985
J.MichaelWilbum : Shreveport. 1975
JimmyWilliams Alexandria. 1993
Dr.LeonardA.Williams NewOrleans. 1993
Dr. Chris Maggio, 85, 91 SShaTnUleDlEWNeTmpRrEePnRESENTThiAbToIdVauEx
DirectorofAlumni and Development SGAPresident
TheAlumniColumnsispublishedin
Myfellowalumni: spring,sumPmuebrl,isfahlelrandwinter.
Dr.ChrisMaggio. 1985. 1991
As 2006 comes to a close, I am reflecting on the wonderful LeahPilchEedriJtaocrkson. 1994
thingsthathappenedatNorthwestem inthepastyear-thegrowth Contributors
anddevelopmentofprogramsandservices, improvementsincampusphysicalfeaturesand DougDaIvriedlaWned.st1986
the positive exposure we continue to enjoy Mostofall, I am pleased and excited thatour Photography
recruitingeffortsareattractinghighcaliberstudentswhoareessentialtothegrowthandvital- GaryHardamon
Design/Layout
ityofthe university. Theyaretomon-ow's leadersandourfuturealumni. BethMcPhersonMann. 1975
School spiritisatan all-time high. Asdirectorofalumni and development, oneofmy NSUPressPublicationsOffice
goalsistogetasmanyofyou involvedatNorthwestemaspossibleandmakeyouawareof
the manyopportunitiestodoso.
Remember, ifwe don't have yourcun-enthomeore-mail address, we can'tsend you
invitationstoeventsbeing planned byouroffice. Takea minutetogoon-linetowvw.north-
westernalumni.comandclickon"UpdateourFiles."You canalsosubscribetoourAlumnie-
news, which will send you monthlyupdates ofhappeningson campus. Afonnforupdates Northwestern State University is accredited by the
isalsoavailableon Page 16ofthis publicationandcan bedropped inthe mail. CCoolmlmeigsessioanndonScChoolollesges(1o8f66theSoSuotuhtehrenrnLaAnses,ociDaetciaotnuro,f
Wewantyoutofeela partoftheuniversity,whetheryou live intheareaormanymiles Georgia30033-4097:Telephonenumber404-679-4501)to
away. There are many alumni events and programs to keep you connected to NSU. We aDowcatrodraAtsesodceigarteee.s.Baccalaureate, Master's, Specialist and
hopetohearfromyou,seeyou,orbetteryet,both. Bestwishesfromallofusandthankyou
foryourcontinued supportofNorthwestemStateUniversity.
It is the policy of Northwestern State University of
Louisiana not todiscriminate on the basisofrace,color,
religion,sex.nationalorigin,age,ordisabilityinitseduca-
tionalprograms,activitiesoremploymentpractices.
Alumni News
Principal Profiles
Northwestern alumni continue to educate through leadership
With Northwestern's history of CarterC. Raymond Middle School is but also an active body. As principal at
producing outstanding teach- a rural school in Lecompte. but one ofthe NorthCaddoMagnetHigh School,hehas
ers, it is no surprise that many most progressive and technology-rich set forth a "flex schedule" with program-
ofthose dedicated individuals graduate to schools in Rapides Parish, serving a ming that encourages students to think
a role in which they have an even greater diverse population oflearnersfrom fourth and learn through interdisciplinary activi-
impacton students and faculty bybecom- through eighth grade. ties that also promote good health and
ing school principals. And the best prin- "I really love to teach. What other physical fitness.
cipals are always - fundamentally - career offers you the opportunity to Cochran graduated from NSU in
teachers. impact young lives in ways that you may 1969 with adegree in health and physical
Karl Carpenter's career in education or may not immediately realize." education and a minor in English. He
began in 1979 when he earned his bache- Carpenter said. "Sometimes it didn't feel earned a master's degree in 1978 from
lor's in music education and took on his quite right getting a check for doing Northwestern in health and physical edu-
firstjob as band director at Oberlin. He something that I absolutely loved doing. cation and school administration. He
The challenges ofteaching are part ofthe retired after 32 years as a teacher, coach
job. and everyone who enters a teaching and principal, but fouryears ago returned
career knows that. Teaching music to the school system to revitalize North
oftered many rewardsthrough the various Caddo, a rural school in Vivian. There he
performance opportunities." made changes in staff and methods that
Some of those rewards included lifted enrollment, attendance, test scores,
leading the Tioga band in concert on the community involvement and school
stepsofthe Louisiana StateCapitol, play- pride.
ing a concert at the base of the Lincoln "It's rejuvenated me." Cochran said.
Monument in Washington. D.C., march- "This is a small high school with great
ing down Constitution Avenue for the potential. We are creating a process of
Independence Day parade and playing focusing on learning rather than testing."
p Gould "Hail to the Chief for the presidential With his background in health and
visit to Alexandria in 1996. physical education. Cochran is concerned
taught at Winnfield Senior High for a "I was elected District II Band about the epidemic obesity among
year before moving to Tioga in 1983. Director of the Year, NSU Alumni Band today's youth.
where he served as band director for 16 Director of the Year. NSU College of "It goes back to the Greek philoso-
years before becoming assistant princi- Education Cooperating Teacher of the phy ofsound mind, sound body." he said.
pal. Carpenter was drawn to music edu- Year, and perhaps my most rewarding "It's a fitness and health initiative.
cation because of the influence of his honor was being elected by my faculty Physical education is the best interdisci-
high school band director at Alexandria colleagues asTeacheroftheYearatTioga plinary classroom." Cochran and his fac-
Senior High, Dr. Jerry Payne, who later High School." Carpenter said. ulty organize activities that challenge
became director of bands at As an NSU student. Carpenter was a individuals and encourage teamwork
Northwestern. Carpenter enrolled at member of the Demon Marching Band, among students who are not necessarily
Northwestern and earned a master's at the concert bands, jazz ensembles and athletic.
NSU in 1987 and a Ph.D. from Southern orchestra and sang in the choir. He was "One student may kick a soccer ball
Miss in 2001. also involved in several theater produc- into a goal, but his team does not get the
Carpenter has been principal at tions and the Louisiana Outdoor Theater point unless they can answer a question
Carter C. Raymond Middle School for Association, the Louisiana Cavalier. or solve a problem related to math, sci-
four years. Before that, he was Tioga In addition to Dr. Payne, other ence or language arts," he explained.
High School's assistant principal. Northwestern teachers who influenced "My primary reason for going into
"The principalship offers many Carpenter were Richard Jennings. education was coaching," he said. He
chances tonotonly seechildren learn and Richard Rose. Tony Smith. Dr. Bill Hunt taught English and P.E. and after 14years
grow, but adults as well. Hiring young and the late Jim Swett. of coaching middle .school and high
teachers and seeing them come into their "I really enjoyed my years at school was .selected to an administrative
own as professional educators is quite Northwestern and received a greateduca- internship program in Caddo Parish that
fulfilling. Teachers love to help young tion. It is absolutely thrilling to see the was designed to develop individuals into
students. That is evident when they vol- growth of the School of Creative and administrators. He then became an assis-
unteer for extra responsibilities around Performing Arts under the leadership of tant principal at a Shreveport inner city
the school. You really experience a sense Dr. Bill Brent." he said. middle school, where he dealt with apa-
of pride and accomplishment when that Ken Cochran's philosophy of teach- thy and the challenge of inspiring disad-
happens." he said. ing encourages not only an active mind. vantaged students to learn.
See Principals Page 2
Alumni Columns Winter2006/ 1
Alumni News
Continuedfrom Page
Cochran's teachers at Wallace James Elementary. Broadmoor Elementary in Thatisthe very reason my dad
Northwestern were an enor- Lafayette Parish's first Lafayette, from 1971-1979. selected Northwestern for me.
mous influence on his as a "school ofchoice." "I became an assistant He said if I was going to be a
teacher and coach. "In 2002, our parish built principal of S.J. Montgomery teacher, I needed to go to a
"We had the best col- a new school with a new con- Elementary in Lafayette in college that had a good name
lege teachers in my field. cept," Schmersahl explained. 1979. This was a large K-5 for this profession," she said.
There were none better any- "It was an arts and technology school which housed a large Principals today face
where...Robert Alost, Buddy academy that drew its popula- population of deaf ed classes. many challenges, Schmersahl
Bonnette. Sam Coker, Roy tion from the whole parish by We had 13 classes ofdeafstu- said, challenges that can
Gentry. Melvin Gibson, Slim means of a lottery. 1 applied dents. I became principal at change from year to year.
this school in 1988 -1993. 1 "Meeting the academic
was one ofthe first principal's needs of each child is always
to have a French Immersion in the forefront. Safety is
program." another challenge that is
Schmersahl moved to always in the back of every
Prairie Elementary in principal's mind. To make
Lafayette as principal in 1993 sure one's school is always
through 2002. safe is a real challenge today,"
"Prairie also housed a she said.
French Immersion program. "A big challenge we have
Every grade level had an atourschool isto integrate the
Immersion class from Pre-K arts and technology with the
to 5th grade," she said. academics but time has really
"This arts school was helped usas we are now in our
such a new concept here. It fifth year and our scores have
was and has been very excit- yielded us nice checks from
Howell. That staff did so for and was selected to be the ing to be a part of the plan- the state forgrowthon ourtest
much more than influence us first principal for this school." ning and growth. Since 2002, scores."
in the classroom. They Schmersahl earneda B.A. our parish has added more "I love being a principal
encouraged leadership and degree from Northwestern in schools of choice. There are mainly because every day is
pride," he said. At NSU, 1967 in elementary education plans to eventually make different. There are always
Cochran was involved in the and kindergarten education every school a school of new challenges to hurdle or
Pi Epsilon Kappa physical and received her M. Ed., in choice," she said. conquer. The thought that we
education fraternity, tennis early childhood education J. Wallace James employs are influencing and impacfing
and aquatics. from McNeese State full-time instructors for the future is exciting to me.
Cochran recalled a con- University in 1972. In 1974, dance, drama, band, strings, Where else can this happen
versation with Bonnette in she received her education vocal music, visual arts, piano butin aschool! After40years
which he was asked what he specialist degree in supervi- and technology. There is also in education, I can still say I
was teaching his students. sion and administration from a full-time reading facilitator, love myjob."
After listing afew athletic sta- the University of lead teacher, and two P.E.
tistics, Bonnette interrupted Southwestern Louisiana in instructors.
Cochran and said, "How Lafayette. She has been a "Both ofmy parents were
many kids are you inspiring to principal since 1988. teachers, therefore, the influ-
be physically fit? How many Schmersahl was a Head ence was there to be a teacher
are you inspiring to learn? It's StartteacherinJenningsin the when I was
not just about winning summers of 1967. 1968, 1969. very young.
games." "My first yearofteaching
"Ihad adesire that ifthey was at Central High School,
walked into one of my teach- K-12, in Natchitoches in
ing areas, I wanted them to 1967," she said. "I taught for
find me doing what they two years at Estherwood
taught me to do," Cochran Elementary in Estherwood,
said. "That' is the influence 1968-1970. I moved to
they had on me." Lafayette Parish where I
Dana Schmersahl said taught at Carencro Heights
that every new school for her Elementary and Myrtle Place
has been an adventure. Elementary for one year,
Dana Schmersahl
Schmersahl is principal at J. 1970-1971. I then taught at
Alumni Columns Winter2006/2 Visit our websiteatJ
Campus News
Long Purple Line
Six Northwestern State University graduates have been
selected as the 2006 inductees into the NSU Hall of
Distinction, the Long Purple Line. This year's honorees
include Tom Carleton of Bossier City, Robert Eugene Easley. ROTC Region. Hoglan was an inductee into the NSU ROTC
Ph.D.. and Jo Pease of Houston, Brig. Gen (ret.) Curtis Hoglan Hall ofFame. His decorations include two Bronze Stars andthe
of Niceville, Fla., Kevin Lynch of Cincinnati, and Speaker of Purple Heart.
the Louisiana House of Representatives Joe Salter ofFlorien. Hoglan has also worked in economic development.
Carleton has been an educator for 39 Lynch, a 1961 graduate, earned abache-
years. He has been chancellor of Bossier lor's degree in political science. He was an
Parish Community College since 1994, executive with Procter and Gamble for 30
Carletonearned a bachelor's degree in social years.
sciences in 1967 and a master's in social sci- "My years at Northwestern formed a
ences in 1974. foundation ofvalues that I have tried to build
"Northwestern gave me a foundation on on throughout my life," said Lynch. "The
which I built my career. Without that. I discipline I gained as a graduate of
would be no where." said Carleton. "I learned to stay true to my Northwestern's R.O.T.C. program, and as a memberofthe pres-
cause and gained the insights as to where I needed to go and tigious 'Black Knights.' instilled adrive toexcel as a U.S. Army
what I needed to do to make a contribution toward making the Officer and throughout my business career."
world a better place." Lynch co-founded of the Catholic Men's Fellowship of
Carletonjoined BPCC in 1974 as a social sciences teacher Greater Cincinnati and the National Fellowship of Catholic
and has served as director of Community Education and vice Men. serving as the organization's president.
chancellor ofcommunity affairs. Lynch established the Annie C. O'Neal Lynch Endowment
in honor of his wife to support nursing students and student
Easley received a bachelor's in business activities at Holy Cross Catholic Church.
in 1962 and a master's in business in 1963.
He received a Ph.D. from the University of Pease received a degree in accounting
Colorado in 1988. and business administration. She worked as a
, - Easley served at the NASA Johnson legislative aide to U.S. Rep. Joe Waggoner
^^^^^l Space Centerfor34years and wasa member before becoming a lobbyist for Shell Oil
^^^k^^^^^
of the federal government's Senior Company.
^^^^^^^^^
MBA
Executive Service. Easley received the Pease earned an from the Yale
Presidential Rank of Meritorious Executive and the NASA School of Management. She became Shell's
Exceptional Service Medal. (U.S.) chiefethics and compliance officer in
He worked in senior positions at The Boeing Company 2001 and served on the Board of Directors of the Ethics and
Space Exploration Division from 1998 until 2005. Easley teach- Compliance OfficersAssociation. Lastyear, she was honored by
es at the University ofHouston -ClearLake. He is a memberof Texas Executive Women as one of 10 "Women on the Move" in
the NSU College of Business Hall of Distinction. Houston.
"I received an outstanding education at Northwestern," said "Northwestern was a place where I could make things hap-
Easley. "The professors were very interested in the success of pen." said Pease. "The university felt like a place where people
the students and spent a lot oftime notjust advising, but coun- were willing to do things differently. 1 had a chance to work
seling. I sincerely believe that my experiences at NSU helped to with fellow students all the way upto the president.Thoseexpe-
prepare me for an exciting and challenging career." riences gave me of self-confidence and prepared me for the
business world."
Hoglan received a bachelor's in music
education in 1955. He earned a master's in Salter was elected Speaker of the
public administration at Shippensburg Louisiana House ofRepresentatives in 2004,
University. the first representative from his district to
"NSU was the first time I had really hold the position.
experienced the largerworld, met many peo- "I am extremely honored to receive this
ple from all kinds of backgrounds," said special recognition." said Salter. "I know
Hoglan. "At NSU 1 learned that I could "be many people who have been inducted into
all I could be.' 1 was not an honor student, but 1 learned that I the Long Purple Line have been very suc-
could do almost anything I set my mind to." cessful and have made many important contributions.
Hoglan served at the Pentagon and around the world. He Northwestern has been an important partofmy life and ofmany
was commanding general of V Corps Artillery and the First members of my family."
See Long Purple Line on page 5
V Av.northwe.sternalumni.com Alumni Columns Winter2006 /3
1
Campus News
College of Education honors Distinguished Educators
Bruce Funderburk Kendrick Webb Gillan
Northwestern's College of topics in education. achievements in academic and athletic
Education hosted the seventh Funderburk began his career as a programming. New academic programs
annual Alumni Reunion and physics and general science teacher at have been created including bachelor's
breakfast on Saturday, Oct. 28 in con- Bolton High School in Alexandria before programs in criminal justice, heritage
junction with Homecoming activities. becoming an assistant principal and later resources, electronics engineering tech-
During the COE reunion, four alumni principal at Cherokee Elementary. He nology and theatre, along with a bache-
were inducted into the Hall of was Supervisor of Elementary Education lor's in liberal arts in the Louisiana
Distinguished Educators. They are State forthe Rapides Parish School Board from Scholars' College. A new graduate pro-
Rep. Beverly Gourdon Bruce of 1963-66 and Director of Instruction and gram in heritage resources is in its second
Mansfield, Travis E. Funderburk of High School Supervisor from 1966-67. year.
Pineville, Lola Kendrick of Shreveport From 1967-80, he was assistant superin- Webbearned degrees in mathematics
and NSU President Dr. Randall J. Webb tendent of instruction and from 1980-93 and business education at Northwestern
of Natchitoches. One alumnus. Dr. owned Travco Educational Consultant in 1965 and a master's in mathematics in
RobertGillanofNatchitoches, wasdesig- and Sales Services, serving school sys- 1966. He taught mathematics as a gradu-
nated a Friend ofEducation. tems and school supply firms. ate assistant and as a faculty member at
Bruce has served in the Louisiana Kendrick served Caddo Parish for30 Northwestern before earning a doctorate
House of Representatives for over 1 years, where she was recognized as an with concentrations in mathematics and
years and was re-elected in 1999 and outstanding teacher, researcher, public research at the University of Southern
2003 to her second and third terms with- relations head and assistant to the super- Mississippi in 1971.
out opposition. Prior to her election in intendent. She has been a community After serving in administrative
1995, she served as teacher ofhome eco- education activist, serving on numerous capacities at other universities for several
nomics in the public school system for boards and clubs, constantly researching years, Webb returned to Northwestern as
nine years and as a home economist with and writing education- and youth-related Dean ofInstruction and Graduate Studies
the LSU Agricultural Center-Research grants. in 1989 and in 1996 was elevated to the
and Extension Service for 23 years. She Kendrick earned her undergraduate office ofpresident. NSU's scope includes
retired from her DeSoto Parish Extension degree in 1961 and a master's from delivery ofinstruction and services on the
position in 1996 to devote full-time serv- Northwestern in 1967. In addition to her main campus in Natchitoches and at
ice in the House ofRepresentatives. work as a teacher and administrator, she satellite campuses in Alexandria,
Bruce received a degree in home served for eight years as an education Shreveport, Leesville/Fort Polk and at
economics education from Northwestern specialist for Workforce Commission in numerous off-site locations across central
in 1956 and a master's degree in child the governor's office, where she was Louisiana.
development and family relations in responsible for researching education Gillan's contributions to
1964. She alsodid post-graduate work at issues, such as preparing a work-ready Northwestern's technology sector have
Louisiana State University. workforce and career planning. She was been invaluable. He built and directed
Funderburk contributed to education the principal author of a report that has the university's Education Technology
at the local and state levels while serving been widely used and quoted in program, the largest graduate concentra-
as a teacher^ principal, supervisor and Louisiana workforce, education and eco- tion at the university and one of the
assistant superintendent in Rapides nomic development arenas. The report largest programs ofits kind in the nation.
Parish. After graduating with honors has continued to be updated and is fea- He has alsopioneered thedevelopmentof
from Northwestern State College in 1950 tured in a Council for a Better Louisiana web-basedinstructionandtaughttheuniver-
and earning a master's in education at report. sity's first Internet courses.
LSU, hecompleted post-graduatework at Webb is currently in his 10th year as Northwestern's Master of Education and
the University of Florida, LSU and president of Northwestern. During his Education Specialist degree concentra-
Northwestern, in addition to completing tenure. Northwestern hasgained unprece- tions in education technology were the
many institutes and seminars on special dented state and national attention for its first such programs approved for on-line
See Distinguished Educators on page 5
Alumni Columns Winter2006 /4 Visit our websiteat:
I (
Campus News
New Foundation Board Members
Alvin C. Moreau Jr. of Baton Rouge and Steve Tannehill of President's
011a have been named to the Northwestern State University
Distinguislied Service
Foundation Board of Directors.
Award
A native of Baton Rouge, Moreau played foot-
ball at NSU and was elected to the All Gulf States
Conference team. He graduated from NSU in 1966
with a degree in education and a minor in English.
He taught for four years before returning to school,
enrolling in the physical therapy program at the
University ofAlabama-Birmingham. He has worked
as a practicing physical therapist since 1974. He is
CEO of Moreau Physical Therapy, which consists of four clinics in the
Baton Rouge and Opelousas areas. He is a memberofNSU's Graduate N
Club and was instrumental in initiating the Buddy Bonnette Memorial
Scholarship.
Marriedsince 1970toMargaretteAckal Moreau, Moreauandhiswife
have fourchildren, Eugenie, Al III. Matthew and Michael, and five grand- Special Agent Patrick S. Turner of the FBI
children. is the recipient of the 2006 President's
Distinguished Service Award at Northwestern
Tannehill graduated from Northwestern in 1977. State University. He was be honored during
attended law school at Louisiana State University and NSU's Homecoming activities on Oct. 27-28.
worked as awoodcontractoruntil 1981. He has been Turner, a 1986 graduate ofNorthwestern,
aWoodmen ofthe World Life Insurance Society field hasbeen with the FBI since 1997. He hasbeen
representative for the last 25 years and a registered assigned to the Miami, El Paso and
representative with Woodmen Financial Services Indianapolis Divisions of the FBI. From
since 2001. He is a member of the National January 2004 until October 2005, Turner was
Association of Fraternal Insurance Counselors and the supervisor for the Indianapolis Joint
the Million Dollar Round Table. Terrorism Task Force. In March, he was
Tannehill and his wife. Pamela MenefeeTannehill, have twochildren. deployed to Iraq in support ofthe FBI's coun-
Stephanie and William. He is a member ofthe United Methodi.st Church terterrorism mission. After deployment, he
of Urania and is an active supporterofLaSalle High School athletics and returned to Indianapolis and is working vio-
the Olla-Tullos-Urania Senior Citizens Organization. lent crime cases and is a member of the FBI
SWAT
Indianapolis team.
Turnerearned both an athletic and honors
Long Purple Line from page 3 scholarship to NSU, playing four years on the
Salter earned a bachelors and master's degree in education and com- Demon football team. He was partofthe 1984
pleted additional post-graduate work. He had a distinguished career as an Gulf Star Conference championship team and
educator, retiring as Sabine Parish assistant superintendent ofschools. earned the squad's high academic award in
He was first elected to the House in 1986 and has been re-elected five 1985 and 1986.
times, four times without opposition. Aftergraduating from NSU, Turnerspent
three years as a state trooper with the Florida
Highway Patrol. In 1990, he became a com-
missioned officer in the U.S. Army, flying
Distinguished Educators from page 4 CH-47 Chinook helicopters.
delivery and to date remain the preeminent online graduate programs in "I was surprised to learn that I received
the state, both in quality and in number ofgraduates. this award," said Turner, who wrote about
Gillan's impact on the state technology sectorover the pa.st decade is some of his experiences in Iraq for
defined through several examples. The Louisiana Association of www.nsudemons.com. "I feel as ifI am only a
Computer Using Educators, which he founded and continues to lead, small part of what I have been involved with
forms the professional nexus for all school technology educators. His in Iraq and with the Bureau. I am very hon-
Middle School On-Line staff development resource, which provides on- ored."
line continuing education for all state middle school teachers, serves as a Turner's wife Elena is also an FBI agent.
model forteacherdevelopment ofevery kind. Dr. Gillan has taken a lead- They have two daughters, Shae, 6, and
ership role in training more teachers at all levels through college course Sophie, 2.
work, workshops and conference presentations than any othereducator in
Louisiana.
/w.northwesternalumni.com Alumni Columns Winter2006 / 5
*
Campus News
Six outstanding educators at Northwestern
State University were recognized for their
contributionstotheuniversityandtheirindividual
colleges as recipients of this year's NSU
Excellence in Teaching Awards. The six hon-
orees, who were selected by their peers, were
honored during Homecoming. The faculty and
their respective colleges are, from left, Dr Mark
Schaub, College of Business; Dr. Paula Furr,
College of Liberal Arts; Dr. Patricia N. Pierson,
College of Science and Technology; Dr Laura
Carwile Aaron, College of Nursing, and Dr.
Barbara Duchardt, College of Education. Not
shown is Dr. James A. Means, Louisiana
Scholars' College.
IS
Alumni Plaza unveiled
Areceptiontocommemoratethecompletion
of NSU's Alumni Plaza was held
Homecoming weekend. Numerous alumni
and university supporters contributed to the
projectbypurchasing fixturessuch asthe Pi
Kappa Phi clock and the Dan and Lilly
Chase fountain, as well as benches, granite
tiles, trees and hmps. The Plaza is located
between the A.A. Fredericks Fine Arts
Auditorium and the Orville Hanchey Gallery.
Thedevelopmentofthe Plazaison-goingas
engraved brick pavers are still available for
purchase. The engraved fixtures provide a
tangible connection to the university for
graduates,facultyand supporters. Formore
information on the Plaza, or to purchase a
fixture for yourself or a loved one, contact
theAlumni Centerat [phone].
Businesses recognized Graduate N Club
The NSUCollegeofBusinessrecognizedoutstand- The 1981 team from Northwestem State University, represented by Victor Oatis, Joe
ing businesses during the annual Homecoming Delaney, Mario Johnson and Mark Duper, coached by Jerry Dyes, who won the NCAA
brunch on Saturday, Oct. 28. Named the Dean's championship in the 4x100 meter relay, were inducted into the Graduate N Club Hall of
Outstanding BusinessAward recipients were, from Fame during Homecoming weekend. Pictured afterthe inductions were, from left, Mark
left. State Farm Insurance represented by Buddy Duper, Alma Delaney Warren (Joe Delaney's sister), Carolyn Delaney (Joe Delaney's
Wood; Association of Member Benefits Advisors, wife), MarioJohnson, CoachJerryDyesandVictorOatis.Theteam remainstheonlyuni-
represented by Sherry Morgan, and Martco versitythat competes atthe Division l-AAlevel in football to everwin a relaytitle, 4x100
Foundation, represented by Jesse Bolton. On the or4x400, men orwomen, atthe NCAADivision I Indooror OutdoorChampionships.
back row is Dr Stephen Elliott, acting dean ofthe
CollegeofBusiness.
Alumni Columns Winter2006/6 Visit our websiteat
Alumni News
SP@TLIGHT
OKathyWaits Robinson (1986) was selected as one ofthe Afterearning her undergraduate degree at NSU, she earned two
"Great 100 Nurses in Texas for 2006" by the Dallas-Fort master's degrees from LSU, one in curriculum and instrucfion
Worth Hospital Council and the Texas Nurses Association. This and a second in education leadership. She also won the Milken
prestigious award is considered by most physicians and nurses Family Foundation National Educator award in 2003. She
as the highest award given to RNs in Texas. Robinson works at teaches math and science
the Medical CenterofLewisville, Lewisville, Texas. Wildearnedherundergraduate degree in elementary educa-
She is currently finishing her Masters in Neonatology tion at LSU in 1991 and completed her master's degree in edu-
Nursing at Baylor Medical School and will be a certified NNP cation technology through Northwestem's on-line program. She
in May 2007. teaches English/language arts and history.
Robinson is married to Tim Robinson, formerly of
Shreveport, andhas twochildren, Kimberly, 1 1, and Matthew. 8. li^^Crystal Mallett of Alexandria, a
"I owe most ofmy success in nursing to the education and member of the Gamma Phi
training I receivedat Northwestern School ofNursing. I am par- Chapter of Kappa Delta Pi, International
ticularly grateful to Mrs. Cheek forherinstruction andguidance HonorSociety in Education, wasaward-
when I was a student," she said. "Thank you Northwestern for ed a $1,000 scholarship by the organiza-
giving me the tools to have a successful and rewarding careeras tion. Mallett earned an undergraduate
an RN." degree in elementary education at
Northwestern in 2005 through a joint
kNSU alumnus Mike Restovich, federal security director program between the College of
at Dallas Love Field, was tapped in March 2006 to over- Education and the Louisiana Scholars'
see the day-to-day operations ofall United States transportation College. She iscurrently pursuinga master'sdegree in special edu-
security, including all .security directors, screeners and inspec- cation withemphasis in teachinggiftedchildren through NSU.
tors. This past fall, Mallett began her .second year teaching hon-
Within the Transportation Security Administration. ors and gifted English, reading and computers to seventh and
Restovich, 58, will command security operations forall types of eighth grade .students at Pineville Junior High.
transportation -one ofthe largest endeavors in the federal gov- Mallett hopes to complete her degree in August 2007 and
ernment. intends to stay in the central Louisiana area.
Restovich was an early figure in the TSA's formation after
the 9/1 1 terrorist attacks and has been a key figure in the OJohn M. Sullivan has been named vice president for aca-
agency's "risk-based" reorganization under Director Kip demic affairs at Watkins College of Art & Design in
Hawley. Restovich, a former U.S. Secret Service agent, is one Nashville. He will oversee the college's academic planning and
offour people overseeing key aspects ofthe agency. will work with other members of the executive management
Work during Hurricane Katrina led to the new job. team to coordinate the internal operations of the college's aca-
Restovich traveled to Louis Armstrong New Orleans Airport to demic programs.
help oversee evacuations afterthe storm. He received theTSA's A native ofVidalia, Sullivan attended NSU from 1968-75,
most prestigious award in October and was invited to help with minus 1970-72 when he served in theVietnamWarwith the U.S.
the agency's reorganization based on recommendations by Army. He later served with the U.S. National Guard. At NSU,
Homeland Security Secretary Michael Cheiloff. he was a memberofTheta Chi Fraternity and graduated in 1975
Restovich was adouble major in psychology and sociology with a B.S. in advertising design.
with criminaljustice as his area of interest. He graduated from In 1984, he returned to school and earned an M.F.A in
NSU in 1969. He was an officer in Kappa Alpha, and Gamma graphic design at Louisiana Tech while working in corporate
Psi Honor Society. advertising and public relations in Monroe.
O
Sullivan taught graphic design at Arkansas Tech in
Amanda Shuford Mayeaux and Monique Wild were Ru.ssellville,Ark., for 15 years. During thattime, he also worked
two of a team of three teachers from Dutchtown Middle as a graphic design consultant for an agricultural development
School in Geismar named Teacher of the Year at the 2006 institute and began exhibiting his own artwork. In addition to
Disney TeacherAwards Gala in August. Eighth grade teachers graphic design, he is a painter and print maker.
Mayeaux, Wild and colleague Kathryn Pilcher were the first In 2003, Sullivan leftArkansasTech tobecome chairman of
teaching team to take the title. They also took home the 2006 the Department of Art at Jackson State University in Jackson,
Outstanding Middle School TeacherAward and the 2006Youth Miss. Aftereight months, he was promoted to associate dean for
I Service AmericaAward, an unprecedented accomplishment. the College ofLiberal Arts.
Mayeaux graduated from Northwestern in 1992. At NSU, Sullivan moved to Nashville in August to take up his new
she sang in the choir, was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and post. He and his wife Margaret, a photographer, are empty
worked in the dean of education's office. She was the nesters.
Outstanding Elementary Student Teacher for NSU in 1992.
i
northwesternalumni.com Alumni Columns Winter2006/ 7
Alumni News
^^MajorAlan Hardin hasjoined the staffat Northwestern Look for familiar names at the book
^^^^asanassistantprofessorofmilitary science. MajorHardin store...NSU alumni
will work primarily as enrollment and scholarships officer in
charge ofrecruiting for the NSU ROTC program. Brother and sister alumni
His duties are interviewing and explaining what ROTC is Shelley Richardson ofBirmingham,
to prospective cadets in college at Northwestern, high schools Ala., and BonnieRichardson Murphy
and at Fort Polk and informing them about the financial incen- of Natchitoches, are planning a
tives available to students who have an interest in military sci- release of their second children's
ence. book and have a third book in the
Major Hardin graduated from Pickering High School in works. The collaborations, which
1984 and enrolled at Northwestern. He played men's basketball are written by Murphy and illustrated by Richardson, are color-
as a walk-on and was a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon ful rhyming books forpreschool children andbeginning readers.
Fraternity. He met his wife, the former Sheila Sampite, at The latest book, entitled "Rooster's Gumbo" will be pub-
Northwestern. Major Hardin joined the Army in 1988 and lished through the Creole Heritage Center at Northwestern, and
returned to NSU to complete his undergraduate degree in busi- will include Creole phrases, an authentic Creole recipe for
ness administration in 1990. Married since 1991, Major Hardin gumbo and a glossary ofCreole terms.
and his wife have an 18-month-old son, Daniel. Murphy and Richardson's first book together, "Can A
Rooster Drive aTractor," was published in 2001.
kSgt. Jerod Ward of the Louisiana National Guard "We worked with Creole specialists to inject Creole phras-
received a hero's welcome home during the Sept. 30 NSU ing into the narrative," said Janet Colson, assistant director of
football game, in conjunction with MilitaryAppreciation Day.A the Creole Heritage Center.
Northwestern alumnus, Sgt. Ward served in support of Murphy graduated from Northwestern in 1962 with a
Operation Iraqi Freedom, and was recognized on-field during a degree in elementary education and taught elementary students
half-time ceremony alongside several other local service mem- for several years. She and her husband, Steve Murphy, recently
bers. Sgt. Ward served in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom relocated back to Natchitoches from Foxworth, Miss.
with the 156th Armor Battalion of the Louisiana National Richardson graduated from Northwestern in 1960 with a
Guard. He was awarded a Purple Heart for wounds sustained degree in physical education and a minor in sociology. He was
during his 12-month tour in Baghdad. Ward graduated from elected Mr. NSU and was active in the Bapdst Student Union
Northwestern in 2002 with a degree in criminaljustice. and intramurals. He is retired as an community education
administrator for the Jefferson County, Alabama, Board of
^^Jason Lott('96, "99)hasbeen named superintendentofCasa Education.
^<>'Grande Ruins National Monument, the fu^st archaeological A third book in the works is entitled "The Discontented
site to be preserved by the federal government and the fifth oldest Duck."
unit in the National Park Service. For more information on the Murphy/Richardson books,
Located in Coolidge, Ariz., contact the authors at [email protected] or
the Casa Grande Ruins are one of [email protected]. Information can also be obtained through
the largest and most mysterious the NSU Creole Heritage Center, [phone].
prehistoric structuresbuilt in North
America. Setasideasafederalland ^HHj^^^H
reserve in 1892 and then as a Winnie Dowden Wyatt (1953) of
^^^^^Pm^^H
National Monument in 1918, Casa Grapevine, Texas, has published a novel
^^^^F^ ^^H
GrandeRuins is aplacewherehis- ^^^^ — entitled "The Little Dry," the story of
tory transcends 600 years ofcontinuous occupation. The site has * ''^H J^riice, an American artist who follows
approximately 100,000visitorsperyear. ^^^^^ W^ herhusband tohis native Nigeriafollow-
Lott earned an undergraduate in advertising design with a ing his eight year study in the United
minorinphotography andamaster's inhistory with anemphasis in '^jj g States. In the book, Janice finds a num-
culturalresourcemanagementatNSU. HewasamemberofKappa ber of surprises as Nigeria experiences
AlphaOrderandagraduateoftheROTCprogram. Lotthasbeenan two coups and she discovers that her husband has a native wife
active memberofthe LouisianaNational GuardandArmy Reserve and a child.
for 18years, including 10yearsasanenlistedsoldier. Lottservedin This is Wyatt's first book, though she has published many
Operation Desert Storm in 1990-91 and was deployed to Iraq in stories andarticlesinvarious magazines, including"ChildLife,"
2003aspartofOperationIraqiFreedom, whereheservedasacom- "AmericanRedCrossNews." Anotherstory, "APotofWaterfor
pany commanderoverseeing 142 soldiers. He servedas acompany Bocas," was selected for inclusion in a collection of "Children
commanderfor 1086Transportation Company outofBunkie,Ville Around the World" publicadon. Bluestone, a literary quarterly,
Platte and Vidalia, where some Northwestern students were under which is availableon the Internet, published an adultnovella, "A
hiscommand. Light Gone Out." Through the years, Wyatthas published other
Lott has settled in Florence with his wife, Wendy Ropelewski books with a variety ofthemes.
Lott, andtheirtwochildren. Wendy earned adegree in anthropolo- "My appreciation for Northwestern and the contribution
gy at NSU in 1995 and a master's in histoid with emphasis in cul- this insfitution has made to my life are inexpressible," she said.
turalresourcemanagement,in2000. Theyhavetwochildren,Sarah,
8, andJimmy. 6.
Alumni Columns Winter2006 /8 Visit our websiteat