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Spring 2008

featuresCrisis action team plans for the worst | page 2Having a plan in place during emergencies can prevent injuries or even deaths, especially

at large institutions like universities. That’s why MSU created the Crisis Action Team.

Foglesong presidency defined by innovation, progress | page 4Following two years of groundbreaking initiatives, President Robert H. “Doc” Foglesong

has resigned as Mississippi State’s 18th president.

Campus ‘living room’ reopens in style | page 8After being closed for a major renovation and expansion for more than a year, the

completely remodeled, 46-year-old Colvard Student Union has reopened for business.

Research helps striped bass farming make bigger splash | page 10Research by scientists at the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station is

reaping benefi ts for Nature’s Catch, the largest pond-based producer of hybrid striped

bass in the United States.

MSU Meridian: small campus, big results | page 12People who have the misconception that big successes happen only in big places haven’t

been to the university’s MSU Meridian Campus.

Graduate improving lives through diet management | page 18By the time she graduated from MSU in May 2007, Ellen Easley had a wealth of

experience to further her life’s goal: helping people improve their lives by improving the

way they eat.

The design firm | page 20Many students enjoy art class, but Rebecca Davis-Kelly’s advanced graphic design class

has them waiting in line to get in.

Campus news 23 | Athletic news 34 | Alumni news 36

Foundation news 45 | Class news 53 | In memoriam 55

Spring 2008 | Volume 84 | Number 1USPS 354-520

One State. One Team.

Interim PresidentVance H. Watson

Alumni Association Executive Director and Associate Vice President, Development and AlumniJimmy W. Abraham (’75, ’77)

Vice President for Development and AlumniJohn P. Rush (’94, ’02)

Mississippi State Alumnus is published three times a year by the Offi ce of University Relations and the Mississippi State University Alumni Association at Mississippi State, Miss. Send address changes to Alumni Director, P.O. Box AA, Mississippi State, MS 39762-5526; telephone 662-325-7000; or e-mail fcarr@advservices.msstate.edu.

Editorial offices:102 George Hall,P.O. Box 5325,Mississippi State, MS 39762-5325.Telephone, 662-325-3442 Fax, 662-325-7455E-mail, snowa@ur.msstate.eduwww.msstate.edu

Advertising:Contact Libba Andrews at 662-325-7000 or landrews@alumni.msstate.edu.

EditorAllen Snow (’76)

Associate EditorKay Fike Jones

DesignersMary Howell (’93)Judy Smith

PhotographersRuss Houston (’85)Megan BeanKristen Hines

Mississippi State UniversityAlumni Association National OfficersDavid W. Jones (’81),national presidentAndrew D. Hunt (’70),national fi rst vice presidentCharles Cascio (’79),national second vice presidentS. Keith Winfi eld (’70),national treasurerBetty Latimer Black (’74),immediate past president

Mississippi State

On the cover: Colvard Student Union has reopened after a 17-month renovation, once again becoming the hub of campus life.

Photo by Russ Houston.

crisisactionteam

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Spring 2008

Having a plan in place during emergencies can prevent the possibility of injury or even death, especially at large

institutions like universities.

Since the Virginia Tech tragedy in April 2007, more universities have made plans for the times when emergencies occur. Mississippi State began planning emergency exercises in September 2006, a few months after President Robert H. “Doc” Foglesong arrived at the university.

Foglesong—a retired Air Force four-star general—learned fi rsthand the impact of emergency situations and planning while serving inside the Pentagon during the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

While faculty and administrators at Mississippi State work to provide a fi rst-class education to MSU students from around the world, safety can never be taken for granted. With Starkville’s rural, low-crime location, most emergencies involve weather

situations, but the university wants to do its best to prepare for any situation that might develop.

“We want to ensure that Mississippi State is prepared to respond effectively and that we have effectively coordinated with appropriate local and state offi cials,” Foglesong said.

That’s why MSU created the Crisis Action Team, often called the CAT team, composed of university administrators, members of the Division of Student Affairs, including the MSU Police Department, along with facilities management, public information, and other campus units. During severe weather, MSU’s climatology lab assists with providing information.

Since the CAT team was organized, it has exercised for emergency simulations ranging from hostage situations to chemical spills. These training exercises are making team members better prepared for real crisis situations.

For example, in recent months, the university activated its CAT team for two separate severe weather conditions. When tornadoes whirled

By Robbie Ward

sity wants to do its best tothat might develop.

By Robbie Ward

woplans for the

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Spring 2008

through Northeast Mississippi in October and when icy conditions threatened safety in January, MSU’s Crisis Action Team organized to implement safety plans for the campus and communicate information to students and others throughout the university community.

During emergency situations, administrators and other decision-makers meet in a designated location that serves as a command center. This allows key leaders to involve each other in campus-wide decision making. As part of the command center, a phone bank is set up to answer calls related to emergency situations.

To distribute messages during severe weather or other emergency situations, the CAT team created a system called “Maroon Alert.” Methods of distributing information during emergency situations include text messaging, instant messaging on computers, mass e-mails, Web site announcements, phone banks, announcements via local news media, and communication with local law enforcement.

“We identifi ed a comprehensive list of existing communication channels that range from law enforcement to emergency responders,” said Mike White, dean of students and CAT team primary coordinator.

Although a plan and emergency team in place help prevent unnecessary injuries, each exercise helps the university learn how it can improve for the next situation. For example, during a recent severe weather condition, CAT team members discovered that many students drove off campus instead of taking shelter at the nearest secure location.

“We’ll discuss ways to reinforce the importance of seeking shelter during dangerous weather conditions,” Foglesong said after the severe weather passed through campus.

through Northeast Mississippi in October and whenicy conditions threatened safety in January, MSU’s

“We identifi ed a comprehensive list of ex

rst

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5A L U M N U S

Mississippi State’s 18th president, Robert H. “Doc” Foglesong, announced in early March his plans to leave his position by June 30.

Foglesong was named president in April 2006, following more than 30 years of service in the U.S. Air Force, where he retired as a four-star general.

In announcing his decision, the president said, “With the express purpose of helping the university move forward, I have asked the commissioner of higher education that I be relieved as president no later than June 30, 2008. Mary and I are incredibly proud of the past two years and of the new re-cords in enrollment and research, the economic development opportunities that have evolved across the state, the leadership performance of individuals and teams across the campus, the

Foglesongpresidency defi ned byinnovation, progress

“

“

Mary and I are incredibly proud of the past two years.

Doc Foglesong

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Spring 2008

energy and enthusiasm of the Dawg Pack, and, of course, proud of our friends. God-speed, Bulldogs.”

In reaction to the president’s resignation, Commissioner of Higher Education Tom Mer-edith said, “This is a major loss for our system and for Missis-sippi State University.

“Under Dr. Foglesong’s leadership, Mississippi State is currently enjoying its best year in many years, which is evidenced by its enrollment growth, its increase in research productivity and numerous other positive changes at the institution.”

During Foglesong’s tenure, Mississippi State surpassed the 17,000 mark in enrollment in fall 2007, for the fi rst time in the university’s 129-year-history. The record enrollment included the largest-ever fresh-man class of 2,281 entering students.

The university set new re-cords in research and develop-ment. Fiscal year 2007 marked a record for the total amount of research awards—$187 million, compared to $154 million in 2006.

In the area of private

fundraising, the university in December 2007 surpassed the $400 million goal of the State of the Future capital campaign. Additionally, the “Reach for Excellence” effort—a Fogle-song initiative—seeks $100 million in private funds to support campus appearance and preservation; academic ex-cellence; scholarships, student growth, and development; and faculty development.

Foglesong instituted a major strategic planning effort that led to a comprehensive roadmap, FutureSTATE 2015, with many resulting items now in place.

Soon after arriving at MSU, he put in place the innovative Leadership Continuum, includ-ing the Young Guns leadership development program for high school seniors, the Day One Leadership Community for incoming freshmen, the Ap-palachian Leadership Honors Program—Sonny Montgomery Chapter, and new faculty and global leadership programs.

He also established the G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery Center for America’s Veterans to provide resources and support that will help veterans succeed

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RRobert H. “Doc” Foglesong is a native West Virginian. The son of a railroad

steam fi tter and a fi rst-grade teacher,

he earned bachelor’s, master’s and

doctoral degrees in chemical engi-

neering at West Virginia University.

In addition to his MSU duties, he is

president and executive director of

the Appalachian Leadership and Edu-

cation Foundation, an organization

committed to fi nding, mentoring and

developing young men and women

who will be the next generation of

leaders across Appalachia.

Foglesong has been designated by

the president of the United States as

co-chairman of the Joint U.S.-Russia

Commission on POWs/MIAs. He also

is a director on the boards of Massey

Energy and of the Michael Baker Corp.

He previously was a four-star general

in the United States Air Force, where

he worked directly with the most

senior national leaders, including con-

gressional and cabinet members and

heads of state.

Foglesong has received numerous

awards for leadership. He is a member

of the Council on Foreign Relations, is

a member of the National 4-H Council

board of trustees, has written more

than 60 publications that cover a

range of topics, and has an honorary

doctorate of strategic intelligence.

He and his wife Mary have two sons.

7Spring 2008

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in transitioning to academic studies. It is one of the few centers of its type in the nation. CAV is serving more than 400 veterans and has ambitious plans to expand that number.

To ensure access to educational opportunities, a gen-erous private donation helped launch the MSU Promise Program, which provides fi nancial assistance for aca-demically qualifi ed Mississippi students whose families are economically challenged and who will enter MSU as freshmen or community college transfers.

To consolidate the many resources on campus and to provide quick response to specifi c needs, the univer-sity formed the Mississippi Community Action Team. Through MSCAT, faculty and students are engaged in helping address local issues and planning for the future.

Foglesong also established a new academic program in African-American studies, focusing on a cross-disci-plinary approach that includes history, government, arts, and other areas.

The alumni association now is working in partnership with the Offi ce of Admissions and Scholarships to help spread the university’s message to potential students, including a new emphasis on recruiting international students and expanding study-abroad opportunities for those enrolled at MSU.

The past year saw the reopening of the newly renovated and expanded Colvard Student Union and the launching of the Old Main District, a central campus space that will incorporate elements from the historic dorm that burned in 1959.

Foglesong instituted the Day One Leadership Community, a state-of-the-art program designed specifically for incoming freshmen who want to be successful, are willing to be challenged, and want to make a life-changing difference from the beginning of their university careers.

The university’s G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery Center for America’s Veterans was established by Foglesong to provide higher education opportunities to veterans through programs and services unavailable from other institutions. The center’s goal is to recruit veterans and to provide them with counseling and guidance, academic advice and mentorship, among many other benefits.

One of Foglesong’s first initiatives at Mississippi State was establishing the Appalachian Leadership Honors Program—Sonny Montgomery Chapter to prepare the next generation of business, political and academic leaders by enhancing their leadership skills and providing a foundation for character development.

Foglesong instituted the Day One Leadership Community, a state-of-the-art program designed specifically for incoming freshmen who want to be successful, are willing to be challenged, and want to make a life-changing difference from the beginning of their university careers.

The university’s G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery Center for America’s Veterans was established by Foglesong to provide higher education opportunities to veterans through programs and services unavailablefrom other institutions. The center’s goal is to recruit veterans andto provide them with counseling and guidance, academic advice and mentorship, among many other benefits.

One of Foglesong’s first initiatives at Mississippi State was establishing the Appalachian Leadership Honors Program—Sonny MontgomeryChapter to prepare the next generation of business, political andacademic leaders by enhancing their leadership skills and providing a foundation for character development.

Second-floor union gathering area of years gone by

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Campus ‘living

The Gaddis Hunt Commons is the new five-venue food court and gathering area on the union’s first floor.

The Gaddis Hunt Commons is the five-venue food court and gatheri

newng

After being closed for a major renovation and expansion for more than a year, the

completely remodeled, 46-year-old Colvard Student Union reopened for business the fi rst

day of spring semester classes.

The union is home to the Holmes Cultural Diversity Center, Music Maker Productions,

the Event Services offi ce, Campus Activities Board, Center for Student Involvement,

several Student Affairs offi ces, and Union Station Hair Salon. A ballroom, auditorium, art

gallery, and study and meeting spaces also are located in the updated facility.

Colvard’s new dining area, the Gaddis Hunt Commons, is located on the fi rst fl oor and

includes Sbarro Pizzeria, Chick-fi l-A, Zoca Southwestern Grill, Miso Noodle and Sushi Bar,

and Bleecker Street Deli and Bistro. There’s also a Starbucks and C3 convenience store.

January 2008

l

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room’ reopens in Style

Sbarro Pizzeria offers a new dining option in the recently renovated union. Other meal providers are Chick-fil-A, Zoca Southwestern Grill, Miso Noodle and Sushi Bar, and Bleecker Street Deli and Bistro.

Sbarro Pizzeria offersOth l id

s a new dining option in the recently renovated unionSbarro Pizzeria offers

Starbucks offers a complete line of hot and cold coffees, espresso drinks, blended beverages, frozen

beverages, pastries, desserts, and side items.

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Research by scientists at the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment

Station is reaping benefits for Nature’s Catch, the

largest pond-based producer of hybrid striped bass in

the United States.

Flt For more than 11 years, MSU researchers Lou D’Abramo and Terry Hanson have worked with managers of the Clarksdale-based aquaculture enterprise to develop a more effi cient culture system for rearing hybrid striped bass.

In the past, pond culture of the bass was based on a three-phase system. Fingerlings were stocked into ponds at a density of 8,000 to 12,000 per acre and grown to a stocking size, harvested and graded. The fi sh were then used to stock ponds at a density of 3,000 to 4,000 per acre and grown to market size.

“The problem with the old system is that there is intensive labor and high mortality associated with the transfer of the stocking size fi sh into ponds for fi nal grow-out,” explained D’Abramo, a professor in the department of wildlife and fi sheries.

For this reason, research has focused on the elimination of the transfer phase. Field testing and economic analysis of the alternative two-phase system, termed “direct stock,” is encouraging.

“By eliminating the need to grade and transfer fi sh harvested from ponds, the direct stock management system decreases the potential for

By Karen Brasher

Photos by Lou D’Abramo and Max Rapert

striped bass farmingResearch helps

make bigger splash

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mortality during that transfer,” said Bubba Groves, biologist and assistant manager at Nature’s Catch.

Management of water quality, Groves added, should also be less resource-demanding.

“Because we will stock the fi ngerlings at lower densities in the direct stock system, water quality is much easier to manage,” Groves, an MSU aquaculture alumnus, said.

The lower densities for the direct stock system are associated with faster rates of growth and a decrease in turnover time to market size. Instead of the average 29 months to harvest with the three-phase system, direct stock produces harvestable fi sh in an average of 21 months.

The economic analysis, conducted by Terry Hanson in the department of agricultural economics, indicates a 30 percent reduction in production costs realized through the decrease in turnover time.

“In addition, it has the potential to increase the total annual production,” D’Abramo said.

Another management advantage of the direct stock system is the elimination of the need to hold fi sh in a maintenance mode in ponds until ponds become available for stocking.

“Having to hold the fi sh creates an operational bottleneck that drains both labor and feed resources,” Groves said.

The new system has been tested for a year in commercial-sized ponds and worked extremely well, Groves added.

“Nature’s Catch is now totally transforming the current 884 water production acres of the farm to the direct system,” he said. “We are also constructing an additional 269 acres that will be managed under the direct-stock system.”

Groves estimates that after the two years required for implementation of the new system on the current 884 acres, the annual rate of production of Nature’s Catch will increase from 1.7 million pounds to 2.35 million pounds.

“That represents an increase of $1.9 million or 38 percent in total sales for Nature’s Catch,” Groves said.

With the proposed increase in acreage, annual sales should increase to approximately $8.9 million by 2010.

“That’s a lot of striped bass and a signifi cant input into the economy of the state of Mississippi,” Groves added.

Striped bass, harvested from one of the new “direct stock” ponds, are removed from a seine to be transported for processing.

Standing in front of the Nature’s Catch offices are (left to right), Terry Hanson, Lou D’Abramo, and Bubba Groves.

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Spring 2008

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“I am so blessed

to be a part of the MSU family and to have the privilege of serving as the dean at

MSU-Meridian.

ew dean hits the ground running.

People who have the misconception that big successes happen only in big places haven’t been to Meridian.

While perhaps less well-known due to its location 90 miles south of the MSU campus in Starkville, one of MSU’s notable successes is nestled among hardwoods and loblolly pines in a quiet location overlooking a serene lake in Meridian. A 90-foot tower stands watch over the small, but proud and productive, regional MSU landmark to learning.

Established in 1972, Mississippi State University-Meridian Campus is a regional, degree-granting campus. MSU-Meridian affords working adult learners and traditional transfer students the ability to attain educational goals while maintaining important roles in their families, jobs and communities.

In comparison to most college campuses, MSU-Meridian’s physical environment may be considered small in size—but certainly not in signifi cance to MSU, students and alumni, and the East Central Mississippi and West Alabama region.

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Dr. Donna L. Clevinger

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Spring 2008

Since August 2007, the big job of leading Mississippi State-Meridian has been shouldered by Dr. Donna L. Clevinger, the fi rst female dean in the school’s nearly 36-year history. She also is in charge of the MSU Riley Center for Education and Performing Arts, located in the Queen City’s downtown.

At a little over fi ve feet in height, Clevinger (with her petite stature) and the MSU-Meridian Campus have much in common—small, successful, sometimes underestimated, and possessing the potential for even greater accomplishment.

Previously, Clevinger served as associate dean at Ohio University-Zanesville Campus. In addition to a 1980 doctorate from the University of Michigan, Clevinger earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Kentucky. She also graduated from the highly competitive Harvard University Institute for Management and Leadership in Education and is an alumna of both the Leadership Texas and Leadership America Associations.

“I am so blessed to be a part of the MSU family and to have the privilege of serving as the dean at MSU-Meridian,” said Clevinger. “Since my arrival a few months ago, I have been encouraged with the outpouring of support from MSU personnel, members of the

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MSU-Meridian Dean’s Advisory Council, regional educational and governmental leaders, and other

stakeholders. Together, I believe we can achieve an even higher level of success for the Meridian Campus and those we serve.”

From the start, Clevinger hit the ground running. In only a few months, some of her early

accomplishments have included the development of a strategic plan for the local campus, reorganization and revitalization of the MSU-Meridian Dean’s Advisory Council, enhanced relationships with feeder community/junior college leaders, plans to secure notable scholarship funding, faculty and staff analysis and evaluations, campus enhancement programs, and more.

If Clevinger’s performance during these fi rst six months at the helm of the Meridian Campus is any indication of what is to come, watch out—dynamite comes in small packages.

As a non-residential, upper-division campus, MSU-Meridian offers junior, senior and graduate study so transfer students who have completed an equivalent of freshman and sophomore years at a community/junior college or other qualifi ed institution of higher learning can complete bachelor’s, master’s and specialist

Like most MSU-Meridian students, Kristoffer Randall and Tiffany Stringfellow, both of Meridian, are able to earn a quality MSU degree while maintaining productive employ-ment and active personal lives.

MSU-Meridian Dean Donna L. Clevinger looks over a class project with Craig Proaps, an interdisciplinary studies student from Collinsville.

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Spring 2008

degrees in a venue that offers convenience without sacrifi cing the high academic standards for which MSU is widely known.

Since most students who transfer to MSU-Meridian begin their education at Meridian Community College, East Central Community College, East Mississippi Community College, or Jones County Junior College, Clevinger made it a priority shortly after her arrival to visit with leadership at these feeder institutions that play a big role in the success of the Meridian Campus.

“My fi rst meeting with each president was a positive new beginning to what I anticipate will be ongoing, creative and productive inter-institutional relationships that will take higher education in East Mississippi and West Alabama to an even greater level of excellence,” said Clevinger.

“Articulation agreements and close working relationships between Mississippi State-Meridian and regional community/junior colleges create a winning situation for students, the schools and Mississippi taxpayers,” Clevinger noted. “Two-plus-two programs between MSU and these institutions are an effi cient and effective management of educational resources, provide students with smooth transition between institutions, and assure quality educational

opportunities.” Young community college transfer students aren’t

the only ones at MSU-Meridian, or at most universities in the country for that matter. In fact, research indicates that adult learners are returning to college in record numbers.

Diversity in age, race, gender, ethnicity, and life experiences of the student population on the Meridian Campus fl avors the educational experience for both students and faculty alike. In addition, a friendly atmosphere, convenient location, low student-to-faculty ratio, lower costs, and fl exible scheduling and course delivery are among the many advantages of attending the MSU-Meridian Campus, according to its students.

And, Starkville campus faculty fortunate enough to have taught classes on the Meridian Campus say they love teaching at MSU-Meridian because they are challenged by the students, many of whom bring a wealth of life experiences to the classroom.

Some of the more seasoned learners, like non-traditional student Noel Evans, a retired Boy Scouts executive in his 60s, enroll at MSU-Meridian to complete educational goals put on hold years ago in preparation for the next phase of their lives. And,

Miriam Wilson, a Pearl River Resort employee, and her son proudly display her diploma as the first graduate of the new resort and convention concentration under the bachelor of business administration degree program.

Dr. Harold White enjoys having a diverse blend of traditional community/junior college transfer students and seasoned non-traditional adult learners flavor the educational experience in his classes at MSU-Meridian.

Noel Evans, a retired executive with the local Boy Scouts of America, enrolled at MSU-Meridian to prepare for the next phase of his life.

recent MSU-Meridian graduates Lena Patterson (47 years old), a bachelor of business administration graduate, and Kathy Scott (44), who earned a bachelor of science in elementary education, agree that college degrees are attainable for individuals who lead busy lives and don’t fi t the typical college student stereotype—if you put your mind to it.

Through the fl exibility of day, evening, weekend, online, and distance learning classes, the MSU-Meridian Campus is a convenient option for MSU alumni to continue their education and others to choose from diverse degree opportunities and enlightening courses for professional and personal enrichment offered through three academic divisions. And, according to Clevinger, additional academic program development is an integral aspect of the campus strategic planning process.

At present, undergraduate degrees are offered on the Meridian Campus in broadcast communication; general liberal arts; interdisciplinary studies; social work; psychology; business administration with concentrations in accounting, business administration, information systems, management, marketing, and resort and convention; elementary education; and secondary education with concentrations in English and social studies.

At the graduate level, the degree programs include weeknight MBA; Saturday MBA for professionals; MBA in accounting; elementary education, secondary education, and counselor education (master’s and specialist’s); school administration (master’s and specialist’s); and, master of arts in teaching (community college education and secondary teacher education).

MSU-Meridian’s scope of service extends into the community, as well. Workshops and training sessions, offered by each academic division, provide professional development needed, and often required, for professional certifi cation or to advance in certain fi elds. A partner in area economic development efforts, the Division of Business and Industry frequently conducts management training seminars to help enhance productivity in existing businesses

and provide guidance to aspiring entrepreneurs in the development of new business start-ups. In fact, a recent series of customer service training programs, offered at no charge to attendees or businesses, was estimated at a value of $3.2 million to the community.

MSU-Meridian Bulldogs are everywhere. Some are representing Mississippi State-Meridian globally, such as Brent Harder, a former Marine pilot and outstanding MBA graduate, who has amassed an impressive record of success in the fi nancial investment business throughout the world; the Rev. Yamily L. Bass-Choate, social work alumna and one of Glamour

Magazine’s “2005 Women of the Year,” who serves as vicar of the San Andres Episcopal Church in New York; former Meridian physician Dr. Lenito Sinay, who now practices in Texas, found MSU-Meridian’s MBA program just the prescription he needed to gain valuable management skills for the business side of running his medical practice.

The majority of Meridian Campus alumni, however, are making their mark locally or regionally, such as state Sen. Videt Carmichael, a former public school educator who recently was appointed chair of the Senate Education Committee; Judge Rae Nell Vaughn,

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Spring 2008

Kimberly Warren, a postal employee in DeKalb, and MSgt. Renee Williams, who works in administration at the 186th ARW at the Mississippi Air National Guard in Meridian, say honing their computer skills is also improving their job performance.

the fi rst chief justice of the Choctaw Supreme Court; Charles Randle, the fi rst African-American certifi ed public accountant in public practice in Meridian; and Dr. Betsy Storms, who now owns her own counseling practice and provides guidance to women much like the single mother she was years ago who returned to college following a divorce.

But, no less signifi cant are the other 4,000 individuals who also have earned degrees and well over 15,000 who have been served through academic courses and community service programs provided by the MSU-Meridian Campus. But, unfortunately for many, college (and the means to a better life) is unattainable without the assistance of generous scholarship donors.

MSU President Robert H. “Doc” Foglesong and Clevinger have set in motion a fundraising effort to establish a $5 million MSU-Meridian scholarship fund to reduce or eliminate the fi nancial barriers keeping many deserving citizens of our state from attaining a quality university education.

Instrumental in this effort is Josh Thompson, a well-known Meridianite and MSU alumnus who recently became a development offi cer for the Meridian Campus. As president of the Lauderdale County MSU

Alumni Association, Thompson also will serve to strengthen ties with MSU alumni in East Mississippi and West Alabama.

“With the realization and appreciation of the opportunities that have been afforded each of us as a result of our education, MSU alumni are now in the position to help provide opportunities for others,” said Thompson. “In doing so, we are contributing to the growth of individuals, our school (and alumni base), our communities, and our state.”

Clevinger agrees and says that alumni can make a huge impact for Mississippi State University by also assisting MSU’s Meridian Campus in support of the “Campus. Community. Commitment.” initiatives in East Mississippi and West Alabama.

“With a generous MSU alumni support system taking President Foglesong’s ‘One State. One Team.’ philosophy to heart to generously serve as advocates and fi nancial supporters for both campuses of their alma mater, we all win,” said Clevinger. “And, success is sweeter when it is shared.”

For information on educational opportunities at MSU-Meridian Campus, contact Linda D. Butler at lbutler@meridian.msstate.edu or by phone at 601-484-0111 or toll-free at 1-800-824-5288.

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Johnny Lowery, an MBA student from Forest, does some class research via the Internet, while fellow MSU-Meridian students Darah Avery, an education major from Newton; Lauren Estes, a social work major from Forest; and Matthew Smith, a business administration major from Lena enjoy a break between classes.

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Nutritiongraduate

improving

The 21-year-old earned her bachelor’s degree in food science, nutrition and health promotion with a concentration in nutrition.

“My goal is to become a registered dietitian and use the skills I have learned to help people improve their lives by improving the way they eat,” Easley said. “I believe that to be successful at weight management or disease prevention, you must make lifestyle changes for the better. It’s not what we eat at one meal that makes us healthy or not, it’s what we eat every day.”

The path to Easley’s career began in her family’s kitchen in the Cedar Bluff community of Clay County, where she lived with her parents and four brothers and sisters.

“My mom has always been interested in nutrition, and when I was about 8, we started baking our own bread, which increased my interest in healthy food,” she said. “I was active in 4-H and learned a lot about food and nutrition through participation in the 4-H program.”

During high school, Easley participated in running as a sport, and that increased her interest in nutrition and healthy eating.

At MSU, she was a member of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Ambassadors and the Student Dietetic

By the time she graduated from MSU in May 2007,

Ellen Easley had a wealth of experience in her

chosen field.

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Spring 2008

dietmanagement

L VES through

Association and served as president of both organizations. During her senior year, she got the opportunity to put what she was learning in the classroom to work in the community.

“In 2006, I had the opportunity to volunteer to host a healthy cooking program on WCBI-TV in Columbus,” Easley said. “The 8-minute segment, called ‘Cooking with Ellen,’ aired live each Wednesday morning at 5:15, which meant I had to get up at 3.”

While the program made for some long days for an already busy student, it produced some long-lasting benefi ts.

“Each week, I would make a healthy recipe and give healthy cooking tips during the 8 minutes of air time,” Easley said. “I created a Web site, www.cookingwithellen.com, where viewers could print off each week’s recipe. Because of the show and the Web site, I quickly became known in the Golden Triangle community as ‘Cooking with Ellen’ and was recognized in stores and around campus by viewers.”

Following graduation from MSU, Easley had to give up the TV program in order to pursue an

internship, but she kept the Web site and expanded the Cooking with Ellen persona to include an e-newsletter.

“I’m continuing my education by pursuing a dietetic internship through a one-year distance learning program from the University of Northern Colorado,” she said. “I have set up my own intern rotations with dietitians in Jackson, Port Gibson, Baton Rouge, and Memphis, but I can still use the Web site and newsletter to encourage people to eat healthy.”

Once she completes 1,020 hours of practical experience, Easley will be eligible to take the exam to become a registered dietitian.

“I enjoy meeting people one-on-one and would like to start my own business helping people manage their weight and improve the way they eat,” she said.

By Bob Ra t l i f f

ON PARADEBulldogs

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MBy E r i ka Ce l e s t e

Many students enjoy art class, but there’s one in particular that has them

waiting in line to get in. It’s an advanced graphic design class taught by Rebecca

Davis-Kelly, assistant professor of art and graphic design. As if to illustrate the

point, a lower-level graphic design student appears at her office door, asking to be

considered for the prestigious class.

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It all started a couple of years ago when Davis-Kelly began thinking about all the things no one ever taught her in school—things she had to learn on the job. The vibrant redhead wanted to make sure her students were better prepared. Then it hit her, “Why not start a non-profi t-design-fi rm-style class?”

“Nonprofi ts are just something I’ve always done as a graphic designer,” says Davis-Kelly. “When I did professional art design full time, the nonprofi ts really had to beg/borrow to get any kind of work that they could get.”

Her students would supply the talent and time the nonprofi ts needed, while the nonprofi ts would provide the real-world situations and experiences her students needed.

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The Unwritten Rule“There’s this unwritten rule that nonprofi t clients are

not allowed to give feedback, because I’m doing it for free,” Davis-Kelly says. “So volunteer designers want to use cool paper or a cool photographer that they saw, and the communication may not be exactly what the nonprofi ts are looking for.”

Davis-Kelly’s class is different. She and her colleagues choose upperclassmen—students who really excel when it comes to computer skills and creativity. These students already have most of the skills they will need in the real world, but aren’t quite ready to be on their own. They do exactly what their clients ask of them.

One of those fi rst clients was Mississippi Alliance for Arts Education (MAAE). Their material was stark white, with a minimal kocapelli-like design—not something which attested to either their professionalism or the point they were trying to make about art being a needed part of education.

The group was skeptical, having used a very expensive artist in the past who did not deliver a usable

product. So, MAAE agreed to meet the students only as hypothetical clients.

Davis-Kelly and her students got down to work. “We get client objectives, do a lot of research, and then we go through all the same things you would in a classroom before we actually meet with the clients again, and the students have to be articulate and present the project.”

The CampaignsMAAE wanted to promote arts in school. So, the

students tried to fi gure out to whom they were speaking, as well as the overall message.

“The main message was that art can help you in any situation in life,” says Davis-Kelly.

So they targeted people in the middle of nowhere who have either a negative view of art or no view at all.

“We wanted to change their minds and convince them of how important it can be in everything they do, from agriculture to medicine.”

The six students came up with fi ve to seven print designs each, plus slogans. Some of the campaign included such things as American tourist destinations,

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one depicting Mount Rushmore with the presidents’ faces blanked out, which reads, “Come visit beautiful Mount Rushbore.” The poster goes on to explain that art makes America beautiful. Another shows a little girl in a pink tutu hanging her head. It reads, “Stop Dancing. It’s a waste of time. By taking the arts out of our educational system, this is what we are telling our kids.” It explains that having fun can be very important.

Davis-Kelly says one of the most diffi cult aspects of the class is learning to fi eld client feedback and make revisions. “They (students) can no longer say, ‘Well, you just don’t get it.’ You can’t behave that way in front of a client, so you have to learn how to do that.”

The students made their presentations to a deadpan audience. Rebecca Davis-Kelly tried to gauge their response. “I thought, boy have I made a mistake, they hate this.”

When the last student fi nished, silence fi lled the room. With bated breath, the students waited for the reactions of their clients. Then, slowly, smiles and even a few tears fi lled the faces of the MAAE members.

A collective sign of relief rose from the students as everyone began talking at once. The MAAE was shocked, stunned, that art students could present such professional work. Never had they dreamed they would

encounter such design. Finally, it came down to one question: “Do we have to pick just one design?”

The SurpriseThe group was so impressed they ended up using six

designs (one from each student) that will run as print public service announcements over the next six years.

The students were able to use the designs for their portfolios and MAAE is saving nearly $100,000 in design fees.

Davis-Kelly says she usually hears from students about six months after they’ve graduated, and they often tell her they knew how to answer an interview question or treat a client because of her class.

To date, the nonprofi t art fi rm class has done projects on recycling, a new art visibility initiative, and a Greek honors program.

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For the first time in its 129-year-history, Mississippi State surpassed the 17,000-mark in enrollment, with a record fall enrollment of 17,039.The total included the largest-ever freshman class of 2,281 entering students, as well as an all-time high at the MSU-Meridian campus and a record number of graduate students.

“We’ve really gone out and told the Mississippi State story, and it’s clear that students see the

MSU alumna Cynthia Cooper of Brandon, the former WorldCom executive who helped uncover one of the largest corporate frauds in U.S. history, discussed her career and a recently released autobiography during two campus programs in February. She was one of two named Time magazine’s 2002 Persons of the Year for their major “whistleblower” roles. Following her McCool Hall presentations, Cooper signed copies of Extraordinary Circumstances for student Daniel Voss and others.

value of ‘stepping into the maroon,’” President Robert H. “Doc” Foglesong said. “We’re also very proud of the

academic qualifications of our students, with the average ACT score for entering freshmen a very impressive 23.6 this year.”

Fall 2007 enrollment exceeded the previous year by more than 800 students, with more than 16,200 on the Starkville campus.

NSF taps MSU team to help teachers bridge ‘cultural science’ gap

Two College of Education researchers are receiving major support from the National Science Foundation to identify characteristics of leading African-American elementary science teachers in Mississippi.

With a nearly $300,000, three-year grant from the federal agency, Linda T. Coats and Jianzhong Xu of the department of curriculum and instruction also will be examining the role of mentoring on beginning elementary science teachers and their students. They will be working with Mary Davidson of the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science in Columbus on a project formally titled “Worldviews of Exemplary African-American Science Teachers.”

Mississippi State enrollment exceeds record for fall totals

Cooper visits MSU

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Time magazine’s 2002 Person of the Year

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MSU launches small-satellite tech research, partnership

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Responding to a national need for next-generation, low-cost and rapidly deployable satellites, Mississippi State is beginning a major research and education effort in small satellite technology.

The university recently signed a cooperative agreement with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and in collaboration with the British-based Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd. Scientists will be examining applications ranging from space exploration to national defense, telecommunications and disaster response.

The research will focus on an

Mississippi Power endows engineering professorship

Mississippi Power recently announced a $500,000 commitment by the Gulfport-based energy provider to the Bagley College of Engineering.

Made through the company’s Education Foundation, the gift will be used to endow the Mississippi Power Professorship in Electrical and Computer Engineering.

NeW baNd hall–The new band and Choral Rehearsal hall opened its doors last fall. The new 18,000-square-foot facility replaces the old band hall, a former maintenance building.

advanced technology program that “could have the impact in space that Henry Ford’s car had here on earth,” said principal investigator Chuck Hill, deputy director of MSU’s GeoResources Institute.

Mississippi State continues among the top 100 universities in a national magazine ranking based on “what colleges are doing for the country.”

MSU is 82nd among some 240 major public and private institutions in the Washington Monthly’s third annual survey—up from last year’s inclusion at 108. The complete 2007 list is available at www.washingtonmonthly.com/features/2007/0709.natlrankings.pdf.

University among those cited for its ‘service to country’

The guide assesses universities on the basis of community service, research and how frequently they admit and graduate low-income students.

MSU now ranks third highest among the 12 Southeastern Conference universities. Florida is 26th; Vanderbilt, 39th.

Costs are large, but spending focuses on basics of MSU’s mission

Enrollment growth enhancing academic programs

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Mississippi State spent more than $550 million in 2006-07 carrying out its primary missions of teaching, research and service to Mississippi. Less than 30 percent of that came from state appropriations, with the remainder from sources such as funded research, tuition and private contributions.

About $347 million in expenditures, or 63 percent of the total, went directly into support of the university’s core functions of instruction, research and public service, while the rest supported institutional operations such as infrastructure maintenance, student services and academic support functions, such as libraries.

The single biggest slice of the expenditure pie was accounted for by research, at more than $168 million, or 30 percent. That includes the statewide work of the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station, as well as research conducted by on-campus colleges and departments.

Much of MSU’s research is linked directly to major state industries, both traditional and emerging, from agriculture to aerospace. The university this year used $760,000 in new funding to expand research start-up packages for faculty early in their careers.

More than $100 million, or 18 percent of total expenditures, was spent last year directly for instruction, with $44 million of that amount, or 8 percent of the total, devoted to faculty salaries. Increased funding for fiscal year 2008 from state appropriations and tuition revenues was used, in part, to create 31 new faculty positions.

Public service and outreach represent a $78 million, 14 percent cut of the university’s total expenditures for FY 2007. That includes the work of the MSU Extension Service, with a presence in every county of the state, designed to provide assistance to farmers, families, local governments, and youth, including the more than 100,000 members of the 4-H Clubs in 1,700 communities.

A “tuition dividend” of more than $1 million was distributed among Mississippi State’s academic units last fall as a result of increased enrollment.

For the second year, 75 percent of new tuition revenue generated by enrollment growth—but not from tuition increases—is being returned to university teaching departments and colleges responsible for the larger student numbers.

MSU’s 2007 fall headcount was a record 17,039, up 938 from two years ago.

“This process helps us to allocate resources in a way that is consistent with student demand and rewards departments that have been successful in helping boost enrollment, which is a key to institutional financial stability,” President Robert H. “Doc” Foglesong said.

“A top priority for use of the funds will be providing instructional support for the new students who generated the new revenue,” he added.

CAMPUSnews

PReSeNTING PaPeRS — President Robert h. “doc” Foglesong and dean of libraries Frances Coleman (left) formally received the congressional papers of MSU alumna Marsha W. blackburn in October. a 1973 graduate and laurel native, blackburn represents Tennessee’s 7th Congressional district. her papers joined others in the Congressional and Political Research Center at Mitchell Memorial library.

Mississippi State and Jones County Junior College in November announced the affiliation of the Ellisville institution’s Charles Pickering Honors Institute as a new chapter of the Appalachian Leadership Honors Program.

“We’re very pleased to have Jones County Junior College become the first in-state institution to join our national honors collaboration,” said MSU President Robert H. “Doc” Foglesong.

Foglesong, who also is president of the Appalachian Leadership Education Foundation, founded the Sonny Montgomery Chapter of the program shortly after becoming MSU’s chief executive last year. Marshall and Concord universities in his native West Virginia also are members.

In signing the compact with JCJC

JCJC President Jesse Smith (l) and MSU President Robert h. “doc” Foglesong display the compact they signed recently.

Work by a team of Mississippi State researchers and students earned recognition by the State of Idaho and the personal appreciation of its top elected official.

As non-native aquatic vegetation began to threaten resources, Gem State officials last year began taking steps to manage the weed. In spring 2007, they requested the assistance of John Madsen of the university’s GeoResources Institute.

MSU research associate Ryan Wersal employs a biomass sampler in Idaho’s lake Pend Oreille.

MSU, Jones County JC improve traditional linksPresident Jesse Smith on the Jones campus, Foglesong said the event is the first step in achieving his announced desire to have a Mississippi State-based national consortium of senior and junior colleges participating in the mentoring and education of young men and women.

“We hope Jones County Junior College will be the first of many other institutions who become part of our efforts,” he said.

In fact, Meridian Community College is expected to be the next addition to the program.

For several months, Madsen, research associate Ryan Wersal and four others worked to determine the most effective means of managing Eurasian watermilfoil.

Now found over most of the U.S., it can alter drastically a water body’s ecology by forming very dense surface mats that interfere with boating and other related recreations.

GeoResources

Research team helps clear Idaho lake of non-native vegetation

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Michael Parkhill admits his knowledge of Mississippi is defined by occasional drives from the Lone Star State to Pensacola, Fla.

Yet, even without setting foot on the Mississippi State campus, the Lindsay, Texas, resident has no doubt he’s getting a specialized education to further his career goals.

Enrolled in a graduate-level program through one of the university’s growing distance education programs, Parkhill

Astronaut hopeful, CSI expert among distant learnersstudied geology during the fall semester. It was part of a strategy to enhance his chances of becoming an astronaut with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

Increasingly, Mississippi State is attracting top students like Parkhill who are working professionals seeking non-traditional ways to further career and educational goals, said Mark Binkley, head of MSU’s Division of Academic Outreach and Continuing Education.

The academic unit now offers 27 distance learning programs, including 11 certificate programs, four undergraduate programs and 12 graduate programs, he added.

In 2007 alone, MSU offered close to 300 unique courses through distance learning. In all, some 1,500 students were enrolled.

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More than 71 million Americans actively participate in bird watching, spending some $45 million annually on the sport.

Unfortunately, Mississippi seems to be flying under the bird-watching radar. According to researchers at Mississippi State’s Forest and Wildlife Research Center, the Magnolia State ranks 45th in income realized from the recreational activity considered both a hobby and sport.

In an effort to help move—maybe even, fly—the state up the list, university scientists are in a three-year study to determine the best methods for increasing state revenues from birding-related activities. Initially, they are giving special attention to areas along the Mississippi River.

“The Mississippi River and its 30-million-acre floodplain form a vital flyway for migratory birds and provide

Researchers focus on impact of bird-watching revenue

Students planning to transfer to Mississippi State from two state community colleges will find the process much smoother because of “two-plus-two” agreements signed recently between the institutions.

Raymond-based Hinds Community College and Scooba-based East Mississippi Community College now have formal partnerships with the university that link completion of two years at the respective institutions to two final years on the Starkville campus leading to a bachelor’s degree in eight specific curricula.

MSU inks academic agreement with two community colleges

opportunities for anyone who enjoys bird watching,” said forestry professor Steve Grado. “The Great River Birding Trail, named for the federally designated scenic drive called the Great River Road, consists of more than 2,000 miles along the river from northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico.”

Assisting him with the study is research associate Marcus Measells.

“We hope information from our study will assist natural resource and tourism agencies, as well as non-governmental organizations, in finishing the trail in the Lower Mississippi River area by increasing private landowner participation,” Measells said. “Without this information as a framework, it will be difficult to evaluate the benefits to private landowners in providing bird-watching opportunities to the public.”

Mississippi State received a nearly $1 million grant to develop an alternative statewide system for assessing the educational needs of public school students with disabilities.

The Mississippi Department of Education is providing the funding through the 2009-10 school year to the university’s Research and Curriculum Unit and its Mississippi Assessment Center. Specifically, the project will focus on ways to better evaluate the teaching of students with significant cognitive challenges.

“For this project, assessment evidence from Mississippi teachers will be evaluated to document student knowledge and skills in language arts, mathematics and science,” explained project leader Cindy Morgan. “We also will be working to establish the reliability of teachers’ proficiency ratings of students.”

Joining Morgan on the project will be principal investigators Mary Brook and Denise Sibley, as well as numerous collaborative teams of classroom teachers around the state.

Research arm to aid state education department

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Mike Ballard has closed the book on Mississippi State’s more than six score years of institutional history. Now, it’s the readers’ turn to open it up.

Maroon and White, Mississippi State University, 1878-2003 is the much-published author’s latest work. Named for the school’s colors, the 402-page successor to John K. Bettersworth’s The People’s University was released by the University Press of Mississippi.

Ballard is the land-grant institution’s archivist and coordinator of the Congressional and Political Research Center in Mitchell Memorial Library. He also is the author of a string of Civil War-

New ‘people’s’ history of MSU is publishedrelated histories, including Pemberton: The General Who Lost Vicksburg and Civil War Mississippi: A Guide.

Maroon and White tells the university’s story from the beginning, adds some new material and extends the history to cover the periods from 1978-2003.

In 1978, Bettersworth, then Mississippi State’s vice president emeritus of academic affairs, produced People’s University as part of the university’s centennial year celebration. It was an update of his 1953 original book, The People’s College.

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On a mission requested by the White House, Mississippi State President Robert H. “Doc” Foglesong again visited the former Soviet Union to further the work of an international effort related to prisoners of war.

In April 2006, the university’s chief executive was designated co-chair of the U.S.-Russia Joint Commission on POW/MIAs. He serves as the U.S. representative for a collaboration between the two nations that seeks to locate missing servicemen dating back to World War II.

Foglesong made his first commission-sponsored visit to Russia in late

MSU leader returns to Russia on POW/MIA assignment

Mississippi State and local officials are collaborating to provide information that can help launch a Starkville Community Market this spring.

A December public meeting explained to potential vendors the concepts for the market, available resources within the MSU Extension Service and the success of similar ventures such as the state Department of Agriculture and Commerce Farmers’ Market in Jackson, said Jeremiah Dumas, a university assistant research professor and one of the organizers.

“We anticipate the opening of a Community Market downtown in 2008, and we want to involve as many potential vendors as possible in selling produce and crafts,” Dumas said.

City planning spring launch of farmers’ market

September 2006. During the latestfive-day visit in December 2007, he again met with his counterpart and government officials there to negotiate access to once-secret archives that could help further the effort.

“This important mission has the potential to help bring closure to countless American families,” Foglesong said prior to departing. “Our hope is that this visit will establish stronger ties between the two countries that can do that.

“I’m honored to serve in this capacity,” he added.

NOW OPeN–The new agricultural and biological engineering building formally was dedicated in November. The building greatly increases space for the department which formerly had been housed in the 1940s-era howell building.

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Bugs are just pests for most people, but a group of Mississippi State scientists is working to make insects an important crop.

“In early 2007, I was called by Ernest Papadoyianis, president of Neptune Industries in Boca Raton, Fla., about visiting MSU to talk about the mass rearing of insects,” said MSU entomologist Frank Davis. “His interest was in mass producing insects as a sustainable protein source to replace fish meal in fish and livestock feeds.”

When Davis retired from USDA in 1999, he accepted a position as an emeritus adjunct professor in MSU’s department of entomology and plant

Forget worms—fish may go on insect-only dietpathology. In that capacity, he organized the university’s first insect rearing workshop in fall 2000.

It was the workshop’s reputation as one of the few places in the world to learn about insect rearing that caught the attention of Neptune Industries.

More than 25 percent of all fish harvested today is used for fish meal, and the majority of fish meal is used to produce other fish, he said. These baitfish stocks, such as anchovies, menhaden and herring, are exploited and growing scarcer as time goes on. After an agreement was reached between MSU and Neptune, research began.

The feeding trials are being conducted by MSU Forest and Wildlife Research Center professor Lou D’Abramo, who is comparing feed pellets made with fish meal to pellets produced from insects. Both were commercially produced and look identical.

“The early trial results indicate the fish have no real preference for one over the other,” D’Abramo said. “In the wild, fish do come to the surface to feed on dragonflies and other insects, so it makes sense that they will eat pellets made from insects.”

Citing career accomplishments that reflect its guiding principles, a national engineering honor society recognized President Robert H. “Doc” Foglesong with its highest professional award.

Tau Beta Pi, the world’s largest professional organization in engineering, named the university leader as its 2007 Distinguished Alumnus. Given each year since being established in 1997, the honor was presented at the group’s annual meeting in October in Dearborn, Mich.

A leading educational institution in the United Kingdom is presenting a high honor to a Mississippi State engineering administrator and researcher.

Roger L. King, associate dean for research and graduate studies in the university’s Bagley College of Engineering, recently was awarded an honorary professorship by Cardiff University.

In the island nation’s system of higher education, few educators who earn doctorates are promoted to professor level. That King was selected for the designation signifies a rare occurrence—even more so for a non-U.K. scholar, officials there said.

King, an electrical engineer, has for some time held MSU’s highest academic rank as a Giles Distinguished Professor.

The head of Mississippi State’s aerospace engineering department is the new president-elect of the American Society for Composites.

Anthony J. Vizzini joined the university faculty in 2003, a year prior

to his selection as an ASC Fellow. He is a doctoral graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. ASC includes an all-volunteer group of members from academia, industry, national laboratories, and federal agencies. Established in 1985, it works to promote the understanding and application of composite materials.

A Mississippi State teacher and researcher in the fields of criminal justice and corrections received a major regional honor.

Sociology professor Peter B. Wood was the 2007 selection for the Southern Criminal Justice Association’s Outstanding Educator Award. He currently serves as interim head of the university’s department of sociology, anthropology and social work, while continuing to lead its criminal justice and corrections academic program.

Teri Brandenburg was the Mississippi Business Education Association’s 2007 Outstanding Senior College/University Educator of the Year. An assistant professor in the department of instructional systems, leadership and workforce development, she is one of three senior-college representatives on the association’s executive board.

Richard M. Kaminski is a new Fellow of The Wildlife Society. A professor

at the Forest and Wildlife Research Center, he is being honored by the Bethesda, Md.-based organization for “distinguished and exceptional service” to the profession.

Amy Tuck, who served as Mississippi’s lieutenant governor since 2000, became in January a special assistant to the president at Mississippi State, her alma mater.

A native of nearby Maben, Tuck received her undergraduate degree in political science from MSU, subsequently earning a master’s in public policy and administration.

In her new role at MSU, Tuck interacts with state, federal and private sector officials to facilitate the university’s economic development efforts, provide consultation on public policy issues and interact with a variety of state, national and international organizations.

Three Mississippi State professional women are included in the second group of a statewide honor coordinated by the City of Madison’s Chamber of Commerce.

Recognized as 2008 Dynamic Women of Mississippi are university faculty members Teresa B. Jayroe of the College of Education and Barbara A. Spencer of the College of Business and Industry, along with staff member Ann Carr of the department of athletics.

Begun last year, the special chamber program seeks to recognize the accomplishments and contributions of state women in business, government,

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the arts, education, health care, and community service.

As the 4-H program celebrated 100 years of service last year that began, in part, in Mississippi, the president of Mississippi State was named to the National 4-H Council board of trustees.

Robert H. “Doc” Foglesong joined some 30 land-grant university representatives, youth members and corporate executives who guide both national and state youth programs designed to foster citizenship, healthy living, and involvement in science, engineering and technology.

Richard Lyons was recognized by the Mississippi Humanities Council as Mississippi State University’s 2007 Humanities Teacher of the Year.

Presented annually at public and private institutions of higher learning around the state, the award carries a $500 honorarium and the responsibility to share humanities scholarship in a public setting with students, colleagues and other interested audiences.

The English professor and MSU faculty member since 1994 recently presented a campus lecture on creative writing, the English department’s academic program he directs.

The head of a major research unit is a newly selected Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of

Science.GeoResources Institute director

David R. Shaw now holds the highest professional honor the association gives in recognition of efforts to advance science and its applications.

Following a national search by a campus committee, Mississippi State named the new vice president for finance and administration.

Michael J. McGrevey, who served as chief of staff and chief financial officer since 2006, assumed the position Jan. 1.

The assistant director of sponsored programs administration is leading a national committee working to advance the profession of research-grants administration.

Robyn B. Remotigue, a 13-year university employee, has been selected for a two-year term as chair of the Pre-Award Neighborhood Committee of the National Council of University Research Administrators.

Ian A. Munn is a new fellow of the Society of American Foresters.

A professor in the university’s Forest and Wildlife Research Center, he is being honored by the international organization for contributions to the society and forestry profession.

A research administrator is joining the board of directors for a national research and education coalition that helps

provide university funding in science and engineering.

Sandra H. Harpole of West Point recently was appointed to a three-year term on the governing body for the Coalition of EPSCoR/IDeA, which includes 23 states, Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the U.S Virgin Islands. She is associate vice president for research and a physics professor at MSU.

An administrator and researcher in the College of Business and Industry is the new president-elect of a national organization.

Paul Grimes, head of the finance and economics department, recently was elected as the next leader of the National Association of Economic Education.

A widely recognized researcher in the fields of economic education and public policy, Grimes officially becomes president in 2009.

Mississippi State’s high-voltage laboratory director will help lead an international conference in China on high-voltage engineering and its applications.

Stan Grzybowski, who holds the Mississippi Power endowed professorship in the department of electrical and computer engineering, will serve as co-chair for the 2008 International Conference on High Voltage Engineering and Application in November. Organized with the assistance of MSU, the gathering takes place at Chongqing University in the city of the same name.

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Alumnus: How will already being in place and working within the organization help make the transition from Larry Templeton’s to yours easier?Byrne: Obviously, I already have a lot of institutional knowledge and background within the department, but not having been here too long, I can give a pretty fair assessment of where our strengths are, as well as areas we need to improve. I am not going to have a learning curve trying to get to know everybody both internally and externally tied to Mississippi State and the Southeastern Conference, so that is going to be something that will be very helpful. And, I think the areas that need to be adjusted or where there will be change, it won’t take long to make those adjustments. And, there are some very good things and some good momentum from the Liberty Bowl, the success in men’s basketball, and the College World Series that give us some wonderful opportunities to reinvest in our success.Alumnus: Doc Foglesong has mentioned several times one of the things that impressed him about you was the 12-page strategic plan you presented for taking MSU to the next level. What are some of the high points of that?Byrne: There are five defining principles that we are going to be about at Mississippi State. We are going to graduate our student-athletes, we are going to follow the rules, we are going to be first class in how we represent the university in our department, we are going to be fiscally responsible while maximizing revenue streams, and the fifth thing is, we are going to compete for championships because it is a disservice to the young men and women who put on our jerseys and they don’t feel they have that opportunity while they are here. I think this is critically important for what we are doing. From there, that will be the foundation or base for making decisions on what we do. Those are some of the things that were addressed and talked about throughout the plan.Alumnus: What about the critics who say that at a place like MSU, when it comes to talent and fundraising, there is a glass ceiling and you can only ever expect to get so far?Byrne: I don’t think we should ever have to take a back seat to anybody in this league. Are we ever going to have the same budget Florida has? Probably not, but I don’t think we need the same budget. I think we have some unique advantages at Mississippi State and that is what we need to focus on. I don’t want us to be focused on what we can’t do, I want us to be focused on what we can do and move forward.Alumnus: What do you see as the top three strengths we have to build on?

after months of speculation by the Mississippi State fan base and a six-month top secret search, Mississippi State President Robert h. “doc” Foglesong announced in February that bulldog Club executive director Greg byrne would assume the top position in the MSU athletic department.

byrne will take over as athletic director at an unspecified time before June 30 from current ad larry Templeton, who has guided State athletics since 1987.

byrne has spent more than 15 years in intercollegiate athletics, serving prior to his MSU position as associate director of athletics for fund-raising and development at the University of Kentucky and in a similar role at Oregon State University. alumnus contributor Kenny billings recently sat down with byrne to discuss his plans and vision for MSU athletics.

What follows is a transcript of the conversation.

A conversation with new Athletic Director Greg Byrne

Greg and Regina byrne

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Byrne: One is the people from the university. This is talked about as being The People’s University and we have a lot of people from all different backgrounds who care a lot about this institution and have a lot of passion for this institution. Another is, we have a wonderful opportunity as an athletic department to recruit student-athletes for many of our sports that have a strong base right here in our state and region. That gives us an opportunity to compete both academically and athletically. And many of our coaches, especially Coach Croom, mean a lot to this university, athletic department and the state.Alumnus: What are the three areas most in need of continued advancement?Byrne: The budget is extremely important, and finding those revenue streams that we need so badly. It is critically important to continue to follow the rules. We have seen the crippling effects of probation and we are still recovering from that on the football side. And the third thing is unifying the fan base and getting everybody going in the same direction. I can’t stress enough that we are going to be as strong as we can be only if everybody is doing everything they can. If we are divided, it is going to be very difficult, and because of the league we are in and who we compete against, we have got to be united going forward.Alumnus: From the perspective of the students and fans, what are some of the most immediate changes they can expect to see?Byrne: I want the students to see a student-friendly environment. We want the students to come to all of our events—not just football, basketball and baseball. We are going to create a fans rewards program for students to encourage them to come out and watch our 15th-ranked softball team, take in a volleyball game on Friday night, and just be engaged with our department. We want them engaged now so that when they leave the university and go out and start their careers, then they want to stay connected, and the athletic department can be one of the best and most successful ways to keep people engaged with the school. That will help us out in the long run.Alumnus: What are your plans for facilities improvements? There has been a lot of talk about things like a basketball practice facility, enhancement of the gameday experience; are there any immediate plans? Byrne: We are in the “quiet” phase of raising money for a basketball practice facility, but there are a lot of needs. The reality is, in every sport you can never say “we’re done,” because everybody in college athletics is keeping their pedal to the metal and we have to have that same type of attitude.

A conversation with new Athletic Director Greg Byrne

Alumnus: How important is the input of the fans, donors, students, and faculty going to be to your administration?Byrne: Critical, because if you ever start thinking you have it all figured out, you’re in trouble. One of the great things about college athletics is the passion, enthusiasm and the interest, and with that comes a lot of comments, questions and ideas. While we can’t implement everything, there are going to be some things where you say, “Hey, that’s a good idea, I hadn’t thought of that.” What’s really important is to let your fan base know you are listening.Alumnus: What is going to be the biggest difference the fans will see in your administration as opposed to the current one?Byrne: Communication and clearly defining what our goals and objectives are. Everybody needs to feel they have a voice, and we are going to communicate with our fan base. They are going to understand going forward what we are going to do.Alumnus: Will that be top-to-bottom communication and not just a narrow few?Byrne: Absolutely.

“Everybody needs to feel they have a voice, and we are going to communicate with our fan base. They are going to understand going forward what we are going to do.”

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A 1972 Mississippi State chemical engineering graduate with a long history of support for the university is being honored as the 2008 National Alumnus of the Year.

Bobby S. Shackouls of Houston, Texas, received the honor in February during a campus awards ceremony held as part of the MSU Alumni Association’s annual leadership conference.

Shackouls has a long and full professional past that includes many accolades and honors. He began his career with Exxon Co. USA, where he held several engineering positions in the company’s offshore production district. His career progressed from there, as he held positions with Houston Oil and Minerals Corp., Plains Resources Inc., and Torch Energy Advisors. His roles at these companies were comprised of professional and management positions,

Shackouls honored as National Alumnus of the Year

Shackouls, left, accepting his award from alumni president david Jones

including being named president and chief operating officer of Torch Energy Advisors in 1991.

Shackouls continued to excel in his field and was named president and chief executive officer of Meridian Oil Inc. and Burlington Resources Inc. in 1994 and 1995, respectively. In 1997, he was elected chairman of the board. He retired from his position as chairman, president and chief executive officer of Burlington Resources Inc. in 2006.

Shackouls is the immediate past chairman of the National Petroleum Council and is a member of the U.S. Oil and Gas Association’s executive committee. He also serves on the boards of several organizations, including the Boy Scouts of America and the Texas Heart Institute.

His commitment to his alma mater is ever-growing, as he serves as a member of the MSU Foundation board

of directors and the Bagley College of Engineering dean’s development council. He is a past Alumni Fellow as well, an honor that recognizes his outstanding contributions to his career field.

Perhaps his most well-known commitment to MSU came in recent years, when he and wife Judy endowed the honors college at Mississippi State. Their generous support allowed the university to create a residential honors college that serves as the academic center of MSU. The Judy and Bobby Shackouls Honors College now offers thousands of Mississippi State students an academic environment and experience that is second to none.

JUDY AND BOBBY

ALUMNInews

2007 Alumni Fellows recognizedeight Mississippi State University alumni were recognized in November as alumni Fellows for 2007. Sponsored by the MSU alumni association, the alumni Fellows Program recognizes alumni who have distinguished themselves in their respective careers. They are selected by each college or school and are invited to return to campus to meet with students, faculty and alumni. Fellows maintain the title for life. The 2007 class included, seated, from left : everette Ramage, retired vice president for adTRaN, bagley College of engineering; Susan erdman, veterinarian, College of Veterinary Medicine; John Ferguson, president and CeO of Corrections Corp. of america, College of business and Industry; back row, from left: Joe dean Jr., athletic director at birmingham-Southern College, College of education; Kevin d. Robinson, on-air meteorologist with The Weather Channel, College of arts and Sciences; hollis Cheek, president of J.C. Cheek Contractors Inc., College of agriculture and life Sciences; Stan Wagnon, president of burris/Wagnon architects P.a., College of architecture, art and design; and John hodges, hardwood specialist, College of Forest Resources.

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The 2008 College Alumni of the Year were recognized at the annual Alumni Awards Banquet in February. The award recognizes the achievements of outstanding alumni whose personal lives, professional accomplishments and community service best exemplify the mission of Mississippi State. The 2008 recipients include:

Rep. Marsha Blackburn, U.S. congresswoman from Tennessee, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences; Michael Chaney, professor in the Savannah College of Art and Design Film and Television Program, College of Architecture, Art and Design; Jimmy L. Solomon, dean of the Allen E. Paulson College of Science and Technology at Georgia Southern University, College of Arts and Sciences;

Carolyn Shanks, president and CEO of Entergy Mississippi, College of Business and Industry; Maxine Harper, associate director, Center for Educational Research and Evaluation and adjunct instructor of special education, at the University of Mississippi, College of Education; W.B. “Bill” Berry, retired executive vice president of ConocoPhillips Co., Bagley College of Engineering; James “Jim” H. Tidwell, professor and chair, Division of Aquaculture at Kentucky State University, College of Forest Resources; and Gary J. “Joey” Burt, veterinarian and owner of Animal Care Clinic, College of Veterinary Medicine.

2008 COlleGe

alUMNIYearO F T h e

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Jonathan J. Lee of Brandon was recently honored as the 2008 Outstanding Young Alumnus by the MSU Alumni Association.

Lee serves as chief executive officer and president of Mississippi Products Inc., a leading provider of a diversified line of products including medical, scientific, janitorial, filtration, industrial and administrative items. Under his leadership, the company was recognized as an Outstanding Business by the Metro Jackson Chamber of Commerce in 2004.

Lee received a bachelor’s degree in marketing from MSU in 2000 and

Each month, the Alumni Association and its local alumni chapters host events on campus and across the country. We just may be in your neighborhood! Visit www.alumni.msstate.edu often for an updated calendar of events.

Outstanding Young Alumnus for 2008 honoredfollowed with an MBA, also from MSU, in 2002. While enrolled at Mississippi State, Lee served as president of the MSU Roadrunners, chair of the Student Association’s judicial board and was a member of the Alumni Delegates, Campus Activities Board and Omicron Delta Kappa.

In 2007, Lee was named one of the “Young Influentials in the City of Jackson” by the Jackson Free Press. He also is a recipient of the City of Jackson’s Inner City 100 Award.

An active member of the Alumni Association, Lee has served on the

board of the Central Mississippi Alumni Chapter since 2005 and has served the chapter in various capacities over the years. Drawing on his experience as a former enrollment coordinator in MSU’s then-Office of Enrollment Services (now Admissions and Scholarships), Lee has also served on the chapter’s student recruitment committee.

In addition to his service to his alma mater, Lee also finds time to volunteer with several community organizations, including the United Way, American Heart Association and Leadership Jackson Alumni Organization.

Jonathan lee, left, accepting the award from alumni president david Jones

Want to stay involved?

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Alumni and friends can travel in “Bulldog-style” to many exotic domestic and international destinations in 2007-08. All Traveling Bulldogs endorsed trips include informative education programs, the services of a professional tour director and expert local guides. Schedule your next great Bulldog adventure today or visit www.alumni.msstate.edu for more information.

Voyage of the Western Mediterraneanapril 30–May 8, 2008

*SOLD OUT* Cruising the Baltic Sea and Norwegian Fjords

June 4-16, 2008

*SOLD OUT* The Great Journey through Europe

July 3-13, 2008

AlaskaJuly 19-26, 2008

Italy—Sorrento and Orvieto Sept. 9-20, 2008

Village Life in the Italian Lake DistrictOct. 4-14, 2008

Traveling Bulldogs

The Alumni Association named outstanding chapters for 2007 at the annual alumni banquet in February. The recipients were selected from among chapters throughout the state and nation.

In-state chapters recognized for excellence in giving, chapter membership and activities, and leadership were:

Category 1, selected from chapters with membership potential of under 325–1. George-Greene County, 2. Covington County, and 3. Yalobusha County.

Category 2, selected from chapters with membership potential of 325 to 749–1. Tippah County and 2. Lincoln County.

Category 3, selected from counties with membership potential of 750 or more –1. Central Missisippi, 2. Oktibbeha County, and 3. Lee County.

Outstanding out-of-state chapters for 2007 were: 1. East Texas, 2. Birmingham, Ala., and 3. Houston, Texas.

Honor chapters for 2007 were the Attala, DeSoto, Warren and Washington county chapters within the state, and the Atlanta, Ga.; Baton Rouge, La.; Dallas, Texas; Forth Worth, Texas; Huntsville, Ala.; Memphis, Tenn.; Mobile, Ala.; Nashville, Tenn.; New York, N. Y.; Northwest Alabama; South Texas; and Washington, D.C., chapters out of state.

Outstanding chapters honored

You can receive a “Future Bulldog” certificate for your son or daughter by simply calling the Office of Admissions and Scholarships at 662-325-2224, by e-mailing admit@msstate.edu, or visiting http://msuinfo.ur.msstate.edu/friends/futurebulldog.html.

You must include the child’s full name, your address, and the year he or she will be a freshman at Mississippi State. Start your Bulldog traditions now.

Want to make your newest addition an official

BULLDOG?

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alumninews

The new Alumni Recruiting Network, a joint venture between MSU’s Alumni Association and the Office of Admissions and Scholarships, is assisting the university in its continual efforts to increase new-student enrollment.

The network, formed last fall, is a volunteer group of MSU alumni who are committed to strengthening new-student recruitment efforts across the state, region and country. Alumni student recruiters work to identify and recruit prospective students in their hometowns and local areas. The university supports, educates and trains the representatives, but then empowers and depends on them to communicate in local communities and get recruitment efforts moving.

The foundation of the new endeavor is straightforward—to strategically use MSU alumni to assist with recruiting new students. Within that framework, the Alumni Recruiting Network focuses on three main goals:

• To increase the number of qualified students considering MSU at the undergraduate level, and to increase the percentage of admitted students who enroll;

• To provide a local information source for inquiring students, applicants, admitted and enrolled students, and their families; and

• To provide regional assistance to MSU’s Office of Admissions and Scholarships staff.

To date, the group of volunteer recruiters includes more than 130 enthusiastic alumni. The group held its initial meeting—an alumni student recruiter retreat—on campus Sept. 21, 2007, in conjunction with “Step Into the Maroon Day” (formerly Discovery Day) and the Gardner-Webb football weekend activities.

MSU’s ‘Alumni Recruiting Network’ to boost efforts“We could not be more excited about

this new group and all it can encompass,” said George Dunn, admissions counselor with the Office of Admissions and Scholarships. “In my position, I have the opportunity to work with the network of alumni who volunteer for this endeavor. They are a tremendous group of people, committed to making our university even better. I am excited about the days ahead as we work together for MSU.”

For more information on the Alumni Recruiting Network, contact George Dunn at gkd3@msstate.edu or 662-325-8400.

AlumniRecruitingNetwork

MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY

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MSU’s ‘Alumni Recruiting Network’ to boost efforts

William anthony “Tony” Clark of Sugar land, Texas; daniel e. hossley of Tyler, Texas; and Fred a. Nichols Sr. (’73) of Jackson, Miss., have received distinguished Service awards for their years of service and dedication to the MSU alumni association. They received the honors at the annual alumni awards banquet in February. a Jackson native and former MSU baseball player, Clark is president and founder of WaC Consulting Inc. a 1965 MSU graduate, hossley is a retired owner of hossley and associates, an international lighting company. Nichols, who is a 1973 MSU alumnus, is director of business operations for the G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery Va Medical Center in Jackson.

distinguished Service awards presented

From left, Nichols, hossley and Clark with alumni president david Jones.

Student’s name _____________________________________________________________________

address __________________________________________________________________________ City State ZIP

Phone _________________________ e-mail _____________________________________________

high school or community college _______________________________Graduation date _________

GPa ________________________ aCT/SaT ___________________________ Gender ___________

academic interest ___________________________________________________________________

Your name _________________________________________________MSU class year __________

Relation to prospective student _________________________________________________________

Your phone _____________________Your e-mail __________________________________________

Do you know a potential Mississippi State student who may not be aware of the opportunities our great university has to offer? If so, please complete as much of this form as possible and mail to Office of Admissions and Scholarships, P.O. Box 6334, Mississippi State, MS 39762, or fax to 662-325-1MSU. You can make a positive difference for a high school or community college student by introducing him or her to your alma mater.

We’re looking for a few good Bulldogs.

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ALUMNInews

The Mississippi State Alumni Association recently expanded its reach with the launch of the first official chapter outside the United States. President Robert H. “Doc” Foglesong joined association president David Jones and other officials in October to welcome South Korea as the association’s 88th chapter.

“Mississippi State is home to students from more than 70 foreign countries, and it’s important that we reach out to all of our international graduates,” Foglesong said. “Since I have had the honor and privilege of living in South Korea for three years of my adult life, it is especially meaningful to formally welcome the Bulldogs in Korea into our alumni association.”

“The alumni association is committed to building relationships and creating a network among alumni and friends around the world,” said association executive director Jimmy Abraham. “We hope to establish even more international relationships in the future.”

The campus welcoming ceremony was part of the association board of directors’ fall meeting.

Foglesong, Abraham—who is also associate vice president for development and alumni—and J.P. Shim, a John Grisham Master Teacher in management

Newest MSU alumni chapter opens in Far East Tag Along with

MSU

From left, President Robert h. “doc” Foglesong, alumni association national presi-dent david W. Jones, management and information systems professor J.P. Shim, and alumni association executive director Jimmy abraham celebrate the launch of the association’s South Korea Chapter.

information systems, traveled to Shim’s native country in October to extend personal greetings to the new South Korean chapter. The trip also included stops at major universities in and around the capital, Seoul.

More than 200 alumni live in the East Asian nation and nearly 100 participated in meetings with university officials over a two-day period, Abraham said.

“We gave them an update on the university and discussed the importance of establishing this historic chapter,”

Abraham said, adding that the Korean alumni chapter already has established two scholarships for Korean students desiring to study at the land-grant institution.

“We are thrilled to have established the first international alumni chapter in our history, and we’re anxious to expand productive connections between Mississippi State and our international graduates,” said Abraham.

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Tag Along with

MSUAs an alumnus or friend of Mississippi State, you have an opportunity to tag along

with the Maroon and White wherever you go. You can help promote MSU by sporting an official collegiate license plate as you drive the highways and byways across America.

An official MSU license plate can be displayed on your vehicle as a symbol of pride. Just purchase one for every car, truck or SUV in your household and let the world know that you are a proud Bulldog supporter.

An MSU license plate costs just $53.50 in addition to the normal price of your tag, and $32.50 of that amount is a tax-deductible gift for priority programs at Mississippi State. It’s an affordable way to travel in style and show your support for the university. And, if you’re purchasing a new vehicle for the next graduate in your family, an MSU tag makes for a memorable accessory. In fact, they make great gifts for any family member for just about any occasion. Visit www.alumni.msstate.edu for more details or make tracks to your county license office today.

If you already have an MSU tag, please remember to renew your license plate annually–it’s the ultimate status symbol for your vehicle and a portion of the proceeds will always assist Mississippi State. Thank you for promoting Mississippi State University and “tagging” along with us.

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ALUMNInews

Mississippi State currently leads the way in the number of counties with more collegiate license plates than any other university in the state. When the time comes to renew your license plate or purchase one for your automobile, show your support for Mississippi State with the MSU tag. The cost of a collegiate license plate is just $53.50 per year in addition to the normal cost, and $32.50 of that fee is a tax-deductible gift to the university. Proceeds from the sale of MSU license plates fund priority programs at your alma mater. So, the next time you visit your local county license office, make a STATEment!

Make aSTATEment!

affinity car tags on the road as of January 2008

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FOUNDATIONnews

Leo W. Seal Jr. can talk for hours about life as a Mississippi State student. His family’s connection with the university spans three generations. His father attended here, as did his twin sons. Through the years, he’s maintained his ties by serving on advisory boards and attending athletic events. And, through it all, he’s never forgotten what lies at the heart of the university—the MSU student.

Students enrolled in Mississippi State’s College of Business and Industry began the 2007-08 academic year attending class in an expanded complex thanks to a significant gift from the Seal family of Bay St. Louis. From studying casually in a unique atrium area to attending presentations in a new state-of-the-art auditorium, these students are taking advantage of the stimulating atmosphere of the newly named Leo W. Seal Family Business Complex.

In October 2007, university leaders and Seal family members formally dedicated the 52,000-square-foot addition to McCool Hall. A cornerstone contribution several years ago by the family, along with other private contributions, funded the project begun in early 2005. The complex makes up the new west end of the 30-year-old, three-story building that serves some 2,500 business and accounting majors each school year.

“Leo Seal and his family have their fingerprints all over this campus,” said MSU President Robert H. “Doc” Foglesong. “We will be standing on the legacy established by the Seal family not just for years, but for decades. The university certainly acknowledges the support of Leo Seal Jr., who has brought much progress to the university through his work on advisory boards and with other areas.”

In addition to Leo Seal Jr.—a 1949 banking and finance graduate and longtime Hancock Holding Co.

Business college complex named for Seal family

The Seals: Susie and leo Jr., center, with sons lee, left, and leo III.

president—other alumni in the family include: his father, the late Leo W. Seal Sr., a 1911 graduate of then-Mississippi A&M College; and his sons, Leo W. Seal III and Lee Seal, both 2000 geosciences graduates. Also, Clay Wagner, grandson of Leo Sr., is a 1982 marketing graduate.

“It is most pleasing to our Seal family to enhance the facilities of the College of Business and Industry for its impact on both students and faculty,” said Leo W. Seal Jr., who was honored by MSU in 1999 with an honorary doctorate in public service.

Beyond academics, the family has been a major supporter of MSU athletics through the years. Leo Jr., a former Bulldog football player, provided funding for the M-Club building named in honor of his father, a two-year football letterman.

Other family support has been provided for the business college’s Leo Seal Jr. Distinguished Speaker Series and Seal Electronic Classroom, along with the Seal Vice President’s Suite in the Hunter Henry Center, home of the MSU Foundation and Alumni Association, and a variety of academic scholarships in business, engineering and forestry. Leo Jr. also supports the university’s Distinguished Scholars Program.

The new business complex includes additional central-campus classrooms and conference rooms as well as additional business faculty offices and student project “team rooms.” The building features a three-story atrium which serves as a public gathering and special events locale. The facility also boasts the W.A. “Bill” Taylor Jr. Auditorium, a 300-seat, high-technology teaching and general assembly facility endowed through an excellence fund gift honoring the late chairman of the Louisville-based Taylor Group of Companies.

“We are definitely pleased that the expansion of McCool Hall is enabling us

to better serve the needs of our business students as well as other MSU students who use our facility,” said business dean Lynne Richardson. “All of this could not have been possible without significant contributions from the Seal family and a host of alumni and friends,” she added.

“Overall, the new complex has allowed us to greatly enhance the capabilities of the college in delivering undergraduate and graduate education,” she added.

MSU’s business college—one of the Southeast’s oldest—is accredited by AACSB International, the world’s foremost accrediting organization for business schools. Graduates may be found at the top levels of Fortune 500 businesses, as well as throughout state and regional commercial and industrial firms. The college’s academic programs also include the recently endowed Richard C. Adkerson School of Accountancy, which honors another prominent alumnus.

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Three Mississippians, three Texans join Foundation board The Mississippi State University

Foundation has announced six new members and six returning members to its 46-seat board of directors who will guide the fundraising arm of the 130-year-old, land-grant institution for the next three years.

New leaders whose terms began Jan. 1 include: Hollis C. Cheek of Kosciusko, Richard Puckett of Jackson, W. A. “Lex” Taylor III of Louisville, and William B. Berry, Douglas Terreson and Paul B. Murphy Jr., all of Houston, Texas.

All six new members are MSU alumni. Cheek, president of Cheek Inc., is a 1970 landscape architecture graduate; Puckett is a 1977 general business administration graduate who is president of Puckett Machinery Co.; Taylor also is a 1977 general business administration graduate who is president of Taylor Machine Works Inc.; Berry, a 1974 and 1976 petroleum engineering graduate, is the retired executive vice president of ConocoPhillips; Murphy,

CEO of Amegy Bank, is a 1981 banking and finance graduate; and Terreson is a 1984 petroleum engineering graduate who is managing director of Morgan Stanley.

Returning members include: Jan Gwin of Memphis, Tenn.; Mark S. Jordan of Madison; Hal Parker Jr. of Bolton; Allen K. Sills Jr. of Collierville, Tenn.; John “Walt” Starr of Columbus; and Skip Wyatt of Jackson. Board members may be reappointed after leaving the board for one year after their three-year terms expire.

Gwin is a 1971 banking and finance graduate who is managing director of Morgan Keegan Co., while Jordan is a 1976 landscape architecture graduate and owner of Mark S. Jordan Companies. Parker is a 1969 general business administration graduate who is president of Sunbelt Wholesale Supply. Sills is a 1986 biological engineering graduate who is a neurosurgeon at

hollis C. CheekKosciusko

Richard PuckettJackson

W.a. “lex” Taylor IIIlouisville

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Three Mississippians, three Texans join Foundation board

Semmes-Murphy Clinic, and Starr is a 1980 general science graduate who is a periodontist with Golden Triangle Periodontal Center. A longtime friend of the university, Wyatt, a principal of Foil-Wyatt Architects, rounds out the returning members.

In addition to naming new and returning board members, the MSU Foundation elected its 2007 officers to serve another one-year term. Continuing as board president is Richard C. Adkerson of New Orleans. Adkerson is president and CEO of Freeport-McMoRan Copper and Gold Inc. and co-chairman of McMoRan Exploration Co., a NYSE oil and gas exploration and production company. He is a 1969 accounting graduate who completed a master’s in business administration the following year. James J. Rouse of Houston, Texas, serves as vice president for the board. He is a retired vice president of ExxonMobil and a 1962

management graduate. Hunter W. Henry Jr., a San Marcos, Texas, resident and the retired president of Dow Chemical USA, serves as treasurer. He is a 1950 chemical engineering graduate.

MSU vice president for development and alumni John P. Rush serves as CEO of the board; David Easley, executive director of finance, serves as CFO; and Bo Hemphill, executive director of development, is board secretary. All are Mississippi State graduates.

Incorporated in 1962, the MSU Foundation works to solicit funding from private sources to supplement the university’s legislative appropriations. The Foundation administers Mississippi State’s academic fundraising activities and endowment funds, which currently stand at more than $280 million.

For more information on the MSU Foundation, visit www.msufoundation.com.

William b. berryhouston, Texas

Paul b. Murphyhouston, Texas

douglas Terresonhouston, Texas

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Robert V. M. Harrison of Madison has enjoyed a long history with Mississippi State’s architecture school. As a retired architect and a former adjunct faculty member, he wants to ensure the school is structurally sound for years to come.

Many of the milestones of Mississippi State’s architecture school can be linked to Harrison. He was instrumental in the school’s founding in 1973. Harrison also helped to implement the fifth-year class program in Jackson and taught there for many years.

Today, Harrison continues to offer assistance and advice to Mississippi State and its School of Architecture whenever possible. It is a rewarding relationship he plans to continue.

Harrison recently pledged the proceeds from the sale of 10 acres of commercial property in Jackson to a future endowment. Mississippi State will use the gift to create the Robert V. M. Harrison and Freda Wallace Harrison Endowed Fund for Excellence in the School of Architecture within the College of Architecture, Art and Design. The earnings from the endowment will continue the couple’s sponsorship of a previously established lecture series as well. Any remaining earnings from the endowment will benefit the school’s advancement fund.

At the age of 13, Harrison set his sights on becoming an architect. Since there was no architecture program in the state at the time, he enrolled at the University of Mississippi where he completed his pre-architectural studies. He later earned a bachelor of architecture degree from Tulane University and a master of architecture degree from the University of Florida. His final stop was

Former architecture faculty member maintains tiesTulane University, where he received an MBA.

Early in his career, Harrison would return to Mississippi and later assist Mississippi State with its quest to become the only university in the state with an architecture school.

In 1973, Harrison became president of the state chapter of the American Institute of Architects. Upon taking office, he was contacted by the Institutions of Higher Learning as part of a survey to determine if there was a need for an architecture school in Mississippi. There could not have been a more visionary person than Harrison to lead the study which led to the school’s founding.

Harrison became the first faculty member of the School of Architecture’s first fifth-year class in 1977. The program was the first full self-contained off campus program in the country. He served as an adjunct faculty member through 1990. During much of this time, he also owned his own architectural and consulting firm.

Harrison’s personal commitment to the school grew stronger. In 1983, he established the first full-tuition one year scholarship for an incoming freshman in architecture at MSU.

In the late 1990s, Harrison again became involved with the architecture school through a fundraising effort to endow a library fund in honor of architect and mentor Joseph Pursell. In the early 2000s, Harrison rejoined the school’s advisory council. During this time, he and his wife Freda decided to provide much-needed funding for the school’s annual lecture series. The Harrison Visiting Lecture Series includes four to six lectures each semester from a broad

range of nationally recognized architects, educators and artists, and visits with featured lecturers are scheduled to allow interaction with students beyond the formal lecture.

Through his commitment to the field of architecture, Harrison has amassed a long line of affiliations and accolades. But among his proudest moments, he says, is the realization that many of the students with whom he shared a commitment to leadership and professionalism are now owners and leaders in many professional firms throughout the South, including holding office with the Mississippi Chapter of the American Institute of Architects as well as some national organizations. Thanks to his investment in architecture education through MSU’s School of Architecture, he is helping to ensure the success of quality architects for generations to come.

Robert and Freda harrison

STATE OF THE FUTURE SURGES PAST $400 MILLION GOAL

Mississippi State’s largest capital campaign is still going strong, surpassing a monumental milestone as 2007 drew to a close. A flurry of year-end gifts and commitments propelled State of the Future beyond its $400 million goal a full year ahead of schedule.

“This is an exciting time for Missis-sippi State as State of the Future reaches its goal ahead of schedule, allowing us another year to shatter an already ambi-tious $400 million minimum mark,” said John P. Rush, vice president for develop-ment and alumni. “The credit for our suc-cess goes to the alumni, friends, faculty, administrators, and staff who have made contributions and the leadership of the members of the MSU Foundation board of directors.

“While our overall $400 million goal has been met and even exceeded, our larger purpose is to create a better, more responsive and more engaged universi-ty—and that goal is an ever-expanding one as our university strives to become the region’s most respected land-grant institution,” said Rush. “We will con-tinue to seek the support of our alumni and friends in fulfilling many of the still unmet needs at our university.”

In December 2007 alone, the uni-versity received more than $13 million in gifts and commitments, bringing the campaign total to just over $406 million. The campaign will continue through December 2008. Among the year-end gifts were several significant outright and deferred commitments, including:

• A $1 million gift from Mr. and Mrs. Dave Swalm of New Ulm, Texas, to supplement the Dave and Beth Swalm Chemical Engineering Scholarship;• A $500,000 commitment from Mr. and Mrs. John “Nutie” Dowdle of Columbus to create the John “Nutie” and Edie Dow-dle Professorship in Business;• A $500,000 commitment from Dr. and Mrs. Niles “Ranny” Moseley of Los Altos, Calif., for campus beautification

projects and the university’s Medallion Scholarship Program; • A commitment of more than $200,000 from Mr. and Mrs. Roderick A. Moore of Brandon, along with friends and family to establish the Dr. Brad Roderick Moore Memorial Presidential Endowed Scholar-ship to honor the Moore’s late son; and• A gift of commercial property from Mr. and Mrs. Robert V. M. Harrison of Madi-son to benefit the university’s architecture school.

State of the Future began its silent phase July 1, 2001, and was publicly announced in October 2004 with $200 million in commitments already in hand.

Thus far in the campaign, several major academic units have been named through endowments—including the James Worth Bagley College of Engi-neering, the Judy and Bobby Shackouls Honors College, and the Richard C. Adk-erson School of Accountancy in the Col-lege of Business and Industry. More than $72 million has been raised for endowed undergraduate and graduate scholarships and fellowships and 27 new endowed faculty chairs and professorships have been created, bringing the university’s total to 45.

Campaign success is also evident in the significant growth of the university’s endowment, which currently stands at about $280 million up from $153 million at the start of the campaign.

In addition to continuing State of the Future campaign efforts, the MSU Foun-dation is also currently engaged in raising private funds for a concurrent initiative, “Reach for Excellence,” which aims to help MSU meet the goals set forth in the university’s long-term strategic plan, FutureSTATE 2015. The initiative seeks at least $100 million in private support for four priority areas of the university—campus appearance and preservation; academic excellence; scholarships, student growth, and development; and faculty development.

All outright gifts, pledges or de-ferred gifts for Mississippi State through December 31, 2008, including those to athletics, will be considered State of the Future contributions. Donors may earmark their gifts for a particular col-lege, school, initiative or priority of their choosing. For more information, visit www.msufoundation.com or call toll-free

1-877-MSSTATE.

$400 MILLION

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FOUNDATIONnews

Mr. Richard adkerson; Mr. and Mrs. e. a. allen II; autodesk Inc.; Mr. a. l. aydelott; The barksdale Foundation; John bentinck-Smith Trust; Mr. and Mrs. Robert b. boykin; Mr. Steve brandon and Ms. Patsy l. Fowlkes; Mr. and Mrs. Fred e. Carl Jr.; Mr. and Mrs. Robert Carpenter; J. C. Cheek Contractors Inc.; Mr. and Mrs. James C. Cherry; ChevronTexaco Corp.; Mr. and Mrs. edward C. Collum; Mr. and Mrs. earnest W. deavenport; Mr. and Mrs. John N. dowdle; Mr. and Mrs. Robert h. dunlap; dr. and Mrs. John S. Feather-ston; Mr. and Mrs. edward G. Foresman; The Furniture Foundation; Mr. and Mrs.

The following individuals, corporations and foundations have made commitments of $50,000 or more from September 1, 2007, through December 31, 2007, for State of the Future: The Mississippi State Campaign.

edward C. hacskaylo; hancock bank; Mr. and Mrs. Robert V. M. harrison; Robert M. hearin Support Foundation; health Care Foundation of North Mississippi; Mr. and Mrs. hunter W. henry Jr.; hill’s Pet Nutri-tion Inc.; Mr. louis a. hurst Jr.; Mr. Frank T. Jackson; Mr. and Mrs. earle F. Jones; drs. Rande and linda lazar and lauren lazar; dr. bruce d. leopold; luckyday Founda-tion; Mr. John P. Mazeres and Mrs. Mona Williams Mazeres; Mr. Thomas W. Mc-Cloud; Mr. and Mrs. William C. Mitchell; Mr. and Mrs. Roderick a. Moore; dr. and Mrs. Niles R. Moseley; eloise, enoch and Margery Norton Foundation; Mrs. June

W. Pace; Mr. and Mrs. Rafael Palmeiro; Mr. John M. Pearson; Irene W. and C. b. Pennington Foundation; Pickering Inc.; Mr. and Mrs. Steve W. Sanders; Mr. and Mrs. leo W. Seal Jr.; Southern Cattle Co.; Mr. and Mrs. d. Paul Sparks Jr.; Mr. and Mrs. dave C. Swalm; Mrs. Joe ann W. Ward; Mr. and Mrs. Robert Whitehead; and Ms. Rebecca Woods

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A familiar face has returned to the MSU Foundation. Jack R. McCarty has been named director of development for the College of Business and Industry. In this role, he is responsible for all fundraising and alumni relations activities for the large academic unit, which includes the newly endowed Adkerson School of Accountancy.

McCarty earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural science from MSU in 1991. He served as director of development for various units within the Division of Agriculture, Forestry and Veterinary Medicine from 1994 to 2001. Most recently, McCarty served as director of development for Ducks Unlimited Inc. in Memphis. He succeeds Bo Hemphill, who was named executive director of development for the MSU Foundation.

Another addition to the MSU Foundation staff is Josh Thompson, a Meridian native who is returning to his alma mater to serve as development officer for special projects and the university’s Meridian campus. A 2003 insurance and risk management graduate of the College of Business and Industry, Thompson previously held positions with Meridian-based Insurance Solutions of Mississippi Inc. and Starkville’s BankFirst Insurance Services.

Through the “Reach for Excellence” fundraising initiative, Mississippi State seeks some $5 million in private gifts earmarked specifically for scholarships to assist traditional and non-traditional students as they pursue and continue their education at MSU-Meridian. The effort is a component of the university’s long-term strategic plan, FutureSTATE 2015.

The Meridian fundraising drive targets gifts which may become part of the MSU Foundation’s permanent

Fundraisers fill key positions for MSU Foundationendowment. Each year the fund’s spendable income will be distributed as scholarship support for outstanding area community college graduates enrolled at MSU-Meridian.

As part of “Reach for Excellence,” Mississippi State also is seeking $800,000 in private funds earmarked for the MSU Riley Center for Education and Performing Arts.

To contact these fundraisers, visit the MSU Foundation online at www.msufoundation.com or call 877-677-8283.

Jack McCarty Josh Thompson

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CLASSnews

’61LEON COMBS of Marietta, Ga.,

has recently published his first book of fiction, A Search for Reality, avail-able through major online booksellers. Combs is professor emeritus and head emeritus of the Department of Chemistry at MSU, having retired in 1992.

’67DUDLEY M. BARNES of Clarks-

dale, a certified financial planner at Barnes Pettey Financial Advisors—a firm that offers securities through Ray-mond James Financial Services—has been named one of Worth magazine’s Top 100 Wealth Advisors.

’70GLENN L. MCCULLOUGH JR. has

been named chairman of the board of directors for NuVision Engineering. He previously served a four-year term as chairman of the board of the Tennessee Valley Authority.

’74JOHN A. MEADOR of New Orleans,

La., is deputy director of Task Force Hope, Mississippi Valley Division, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

SUSAN PURSER (Ed.S. ’77), Moore County (N.C.) Schools superintendent, has been named the Sandhills Region Superintendent of the Year.

’75TEMPLE W. BARRY of Jackson has

been elected vice president of the board of directors of the international Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards. He is president of Lakeland As-sociates landscape design firm.

TED F. BOWLDS, commander of Electronic Systems Center, Hanscomb AFB, Mass., has been promoted to lieu-tenant general in the U.S. Air Force.

’76JOHN MCKEE SLOAN, an Episco-

pal rector, has been ordained as bishop suffragan within the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama.

’77MARY FRANCES MCNEER THET-

FORD (M.Ed. ’78) has been selected president of the Mountain Brook, Ala., Kappa Delta Alumnae Association. The Mountain Brook association received the award for Most Outstanding Alumnae Chapter in the United States for 2006-07.

’79MARC SMITH AND JANIS BUCK

SMITH (’79) are living in Shunde, China, where Marc is general manager for Laird Technologies, a manufacturer of ferrite ceramic products, and Janis tu-tors students in English.

’82AMIE OLIVER of Richmond, Va.,

an artist and professor at Longwood Uni-versity, recently presented an exhibition, “Walk the Walk,” at Plant Zero in Rich-mond. Her works have been exhibited widely in the U.S. and internationally.

LASHELL VAUGHN, vice president of OnQ-Information Technology Ser-vices for Hilton Companies in Memphis, Tenn., represented Hilton at the 48th Liberty Bowl halftime show in Decem-ber. Hilton is a corporate sponsor of the Liberty Bowl.

’83RANDY GRAVES of Canton is a

partner in Madison Planting and Design Group. The firm has received an Envi-ronmental Distinction Award from the Professional Landcare Network.

’85SUE MILLER PERRY of Madison

County has received the Mississippi Col-lege School of Law’s Wright Law Firm Family Law Award. She is a 2007 juris doctorate graduate of the school.

’87MARILYN CROUTHER, chief fi-

nancial officer for EDS U.S. Government Solutions, received the 2007 Professional Achievement Award from the National Women of Color in Technology.

KIM CORRERO FANDEL (M.S. ’94), a first grade teacher at Church Street Elementary School in Tupelo, was named a 2007 Teacher of Distinction in the Tupelo Public Schools by the CREATE Foundation and the Rotary and Kiwanis clubs of Tupelo. The honor is pre-sented in recognition of ability to inspire students and others, excellence beyond required duties, and effective approaches to teaching.

’88GREG CARLISLE of Clearfield, Ky.,

instructor in the department of commu-nication and theatre at Morehead State University, has written Elegant Complex-ity: A Study of David Foster Wallace’s Infinite Jest, an assessment of one of the most innovative novels in contemporary literature.

TERRI L. EARNEST (M.S. ’94, Ph.D. ’93) has joined the faculty of Fran-cis Marion University in Florence, S.C., as an assistant professor of sociology.

’91TOMMY JOYNER of Brandon has

been named chief financial officer at Rankin Medical Center.

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KENDALL MCCARTER has been named vice president of development and university relations at Lambuth Univer-sity in Jackson, Tenn.

TRACY PENN has joined the envi-ronmental practice of Gardere Wynne Sewell law firm in the company’s Hous-ton, Texas, office. She is a 2007 magna cum laude graduate of the Thurgood Marshall School of Law.

’93KEVIN VEAL, who works at Los

Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico, is the leading U.S. Department of Energy technical expert to the six-par-ty talks seeking an end to North Korea’s nuclear weapons program.

’94CHRIS CROTHERS of Jackson,

along with his brother Scott, has writ-ten a cookbook, Scattered, Smothered & Crother’d, which focuses largely on the cuisines of the Mississippi and Louisiana Gulf Coast. He is communications direc-tor for the Foundation for the Mid South in Jackson.

’96RUSSELL ADSIT, a Memphis, Tenn.,

landscape architect and former MSU faculty member, has been named execu-tive director of the International Erosion Control Association.

WILLIAM T. DALTON III received a doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Memphis in 2006 and has completed a post-doctoral fellowship in pediatric psychology at Texas Children’s Hospital. He is a professor at East Ten-nessee State University in Johnson City.

’98KIRK CAMERON of Canton is a

partner in Madison Planting and Design Group. The firm has received an Envi-ronmental Distinction Award from the Professional Landcare Network.

ARRON GROW of Lakewood, Wash., is president of Grow International, a com-pany that provides speaking and training services to organizations worldwide. He also is executive producer and host of a weekly radio show, Personal Best Radio, which broadcasts in the Seattle area.

BRUCE MARIE has been promoted to vice president of purchasing at Coast Electric Power Association.

CASHENNA MCCULLOUGH Cross has been promoted to major in the U.S. Air Force.

TROY POWELL PURVIS of San Antonio, Texas, a research scientist for Azaya Therapeutics, has received a doc-toral degree in pharmaceutics from the University of Texas School of Pharmacy.

’99LATUNJA FIELDS has been named

controller at International Paper’s River-dale Mill in Selma, Ala.

’00JOSHUA R. FAIRLEY of Vicksburg,

an electrical engineer at the Army’s Engi-neer Research and Development Center, has developed a method for improv-ing detection of improvised explosive devices, improving the accuracy of sensor systems by 75 percent. He has been honored by the Pentagon with its David O. Cooke Excellence in Public Adminis-tration Award.

RICHARD RUSSO, head football coach at North Delta School in Bates-ville, has been elected Mississippi Private School Association District 1A Coach of the Year.

DAVID G. WILSON (M.S. ’03) is a technology development representative for Monsanto Co. in Des Moines, Iowa.

’02JON MILSTEAD of Tupelo has

been named director of planning for Lee County’s Community Development Foundation.

BRIAN POOLE (M.Tx. ’03) of Memphis, Tenn., has been promoted to manager in Deloitte Tax LLP.

’03BARBARA PATRICK (Ph.D. ’07), an

assistant professor of political science at Mississippi State, recently was honored at the Compact for Faculty Diversity’s Institute on Teaching and Mentoring for being one the few minority students in the region to acquire a doctoral degree.

’04DAWN HARRISON, a first lieuten-

ant in the U.S. Army, is the new com-pany commander of the 412th Engineer Command in Vicksburg. She is the first woman in the command’s history to hold the post.

’05TYLER JAMES of Canton is a

landscape architect and design opera-tions manager with Madison Planting and Design Group. The firm has received an Environmental Distinction Award from the Professional Landcare Network.

’05EDWARD SANDERS of Leland is

working in the Executive Office of the President at the White House in Washing-ton, D.C.

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iN

announcements

memoriam

Henry Philip Dawsey, Sept. 21, 2006, to BEN E. DAWSEY (’02) and wife Angela of Houma, La.

MURRAY WILSON SMITH (’32)—98, Raleigh, N.C.; retired U.S. Weather Bureau employee, retired lieutenant colonel in the active military reserves, and World War II veteran, Sept. 29, 2007.

AUGUSTUS ANTHONY WATTS (’32)—97, Williamsport, Md.; retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army, former public school teacher and World War II veteran, Nov. 11, 2007.

CLAUDE PATE HUTCHENS JR. (’36)—92, Mount Dora, Fla.; retired director of employment for United Airlines and World War II veteran, Nov. 24, 2007.

LEWIS MARTIN RANDLE (’39)—West Point; retired Farmers Home Administration employee and farm consultant for BancorpSouth, Aug. 15, 2007.

CHARLES FELDER REYNOLDS JR. (’39)—89, Manakin-Sabot, Va.; retired senior vice president of real estate investments for Prudential Insurance Co. and World War II veteran, Aug. 13, 2007.

WADE BARTON (’40)—90, Martin, Tenn.; retired executive director of Northwest regional Public Health office, former assistant county agent in New Albany, and World War II veteran, Nov. 23, 2007.

RUBY VICTORIA SENGLEY (’40)—90; retired secretary, Oct. 20, 2007.

HENRY OWEN BARGER (’41)—88, Memphis, Tenn.; retired sales representative for Mississippi Chemical Corp. and World War II veteran, Sept. 26, 2007.

RAYMOND RAY (’43)—Vicksburg;

Carter Brooks Jenkins, Aug. 9, 2007, to EMILY FESMIRE JENKINS (’02) and BROOKS D. JENKINS (’03) of Brandon.

retired State Farm Companies Foundation employee and World War II veteran, Oct. 4, 2007.

JOHN THOMAS WATKINS (’45, M.S. ’48)—83, West Point; retired partner in Watkins, Ward and Stafford CPAs in West Point and a 21-year commissioner for Golden Triangle Regional Airport, Jan. 4, 2008.

HENRY OWEN BARGER SR. (’41)—88, Memphis, Tenn.; retired sales representative for Mississippi Chemical Corp., retired major in the U.S. Army Reserve and World War II veteran, Sept. 26, 2007.

RAY T. HAMAN (’46)—86, Duluth, Ga.; retired General Electric employee, former business faculty member at MSU, and World War II veteran, Dec. 31, 2007.

EMMETT A. KIMBROUGH JR. (’47)—85, Starkville; professor emeritus of agricultural and biological engineering at Mississippi State, retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserve, and World War II veteran, Sept. 7, 2007.

MICKEY WALKER (’47)—83, Jackson; retired lieutenant general in the U.S. Army, former chief of the National Guard Bureau in Washington, D.C., and World War II and Korean War veteran, Dec. 11, 2007.

EVE BLAKE FREEMAN (’48, M.S. ’66)—81, Decatur, Ga.; retired microbiologist for the Georgia Department of Human Resources, Oct. 10, 2007.

ALEXIS E. TEMPLETON (’49)—Madison; retired district construction engineer for the Mississippi Highway Department, July 22, 2007.

RAY M. WATERS (’49)—Tupelo; retired examiner for Federal Deposit

Insurance Corp. and retired senior vice president for loan review for Peoples Bank in Tupelo, Feb. 16, 2007.

JAMES ERON GREEN (’50)—80, Gulf Shores, Ala.; retired professional engineer and president of Seascape Furniture Leasing Inc., Aug. 8, 2007.

THOMAS EARL RICE (’50)—79, Glenshaw, Pa.; operator and president of Custom Glass Corp. of Kittanning, Pa., and Korean War veteran, Oct. 10, 2007.

JOHN M. SMITH (’50)—84, Louisville; retired poultry consultant and World War II veteran, Sept. 17, 2007.

BENNIE DAVIS VERELL (’50)—82, Terry; retired bridge engineer for the state Highway Department (now MDOT), cattle producer, and World War II veteran, Oct. 25, 2007.

JAMES CLARK NERREN (’53)—78, Monroe, La.; retired sales representative for Mississippi Chemical Corp. and Korean War veteran, Nov. 5, 2007.

JAMES HASKEL CAVES (’55)—Bay Springs; retired county agricultural agent for Jasper County and Korean War veteran, May 25, 2007.

JOHN ROBERT GAHAN SR. (’59)—73, Leighton, Ala.; retired chemical engineer for Tennessee Valley Authority, Jan. 2, 2008.

ROBERT SAMUEL WAITS (’60)—69, Houston, Texas; real estate, finance and farming executive, Aug. 10, 2007.

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JOHN ISAAC RUCKER JR. (’61)—68, The Villages, Fla.; professional economic developer and retired executive director of Oktibbeha County Economic Development Authority, Sept. 4, 2007.

FAY HAGAN (’60, M.S. ’62)—78, Southaven; professional photographer and retired professor of experimental statistics at Mississippi State, Aug. 25, 2007.

JOHN AARON CANTRELL JR. (’62, M.Ed. ’71))—67, West Point; school administrator, teacher and coach for the West Point School District, Nov. 5, 2007.

JAMES PAUL THAXTON JR. (’64, M.S. ’66)—67, Starkville; professor of poultry science at Mississippi State and co-founder of Embrex Inc., Oct. 17, 2007.

PAUL HOUSTON (’68)—64, Orlando, Fla.; hotel executive and director and vice president of Sierra Land Group, Sept. 9, 2007.

J.C. AINSWORTH JR. (’73)—58, Brookhaven; attorney, Jan. 3, 2008.

VERA LOUISE WATSON BROOKS (’73)—63, Starkville; retired teacher, counselor and testing coordinator, Sept. 11, 2007.

NANCY ANN EGGER WARD (’74)—Germantown, Tenn.; homemaker and former public school teacher and former employee of the Mississippi State Department of Education, May 28, 2007.

MATTHEW LOWBER VIRDEN IV (’79)—50, Pineville, La.; senior engineer for Meyer, Meyer, LaCroix and Hixson, Oct. 5, 2007.

ROBERT DENNIS CRABTREE (’80)—52, Starkville; co-owner of Crabtree Roofing and cattleman, Nov. 8, 2007.

ROBERT BRUCE BURNEY (’82)—47, Ackerman; mayor of Ackerman and former Ackerman alderman, Dec. 9, 2007.

BRAD RODERICK MOORE (’90)—San Diego, Calif.;

gastroenterologist at University of California Medical Center, Sept. 21, 2007.

Phong le (student)—19, Ocean Springs; aerospace engineering student at Mississippi State, dec. 19, 2007.

William eric Knight (former employee)—87, Falkville, ala.; professor emeritus and retired research agronomist for the USda Forage and range Research Unit at MSU and World War II veteran.

William alexander Taylor Jr.(attended)—76, louisville; chairman of the board of Taylor Machine Works Inc. and Korean War veteran, Nov. 22, 2007.

edith Mae Cox (friend)—75, Carthage; homemaker, Oct. 29, 2007.

Georgene Crow dunn (friend)—82, New Orleans, la; co-founder of durward dunn Inc. and former teacher and basketball coach, Nov. 8, 2007.

Sherry davis Wingo (friend)—62, Collierville, Tenn.; retired business owner, Nov. 17, 2007.

Please send obituaries to Allen Snow,P.O. Box 5325, Mississippi State, MS39762-5526 or e-mail to snowa@ur.msstate.edu

JENNIFER DALE STECKLER (’98)—32, Natchez; communication program manager for Citicorp, Nov. 6, 2007.

Mississippi State alumni and friends desiring a favorite photograph of campus or a memorable athletic moment may obtain it with the click of a few computer keys.

Nearly 120 selected images captured by the university’s award-winning photographers now are available for online purchase. The site, http://www.replayphotos.com/mississippistatephotos, is operated by Replay Photos, a Web-based company specializing in producing high-quality prints for universities, said Russ Houston, coordinator of photographic services in MSU’s Office of University Relations.

Web-based images can help bring campus home

www.replayphotos.com/mississippistatephotos

Post Office Box AAOne Hunter Henry BoulevardMississippi State, MS 39762-5526www.alumni.msstate.edu

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

Discrimination based upon race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or veteran’s status is a violation of federal and state law and MSU policy and will not be tolerated. Discrimination based upon sexual orientation or group affiliation is a violation of MSU policy and will not be tolerated.

Nonprofit OrganizationU.S. Postage PAID

Louisville, KYPermit #1051